Heartstrings on Fire (Agnes and Jared)
Chapter 838

"Men are like a deep sea mystery, all calm on the surface, but their hearts have more twists and turns than a country back road," Agnes complained, shaking her head in exasperation. "Oh, isn't that just because you heartless women drive us to it?" Jared retorted with a grin, completely unphased.

Agnes, flustered and fuming, reached out to give him a playful smack. But Jared, quick as a wink, caught her hand and pressed a kiss to the back of it, making her anger melt away like snow in spring.

Sighing, Agnes said, "If only Brayden had half your emotional intelligence, he wouldn't be in this mess. Do you think, given three years and day-to-day life together, they might patch things up?"

"Three years? They'd probably be on their second kid by then," Jared said with confidence.

Agnes frowned. "So, you think Brayden's doing it on purpose, trying to win Kerri back?"

"Looks like it. But they've still got their share of issues to sort through. Like his brother, for instance."

"I've got no clue what went down back then, and Kerri's tight-lipped about the whole thing."

"Let it go, Agnes. It's their life to figure out. Whether they end up together or not, it's in the hands of fate," Jared counseled. "Mrs. Whitfield, if you could kindly focus your attention on your own husband, I'd appreciate it. You caring so much about other men doesn't exactly make me thrilled."

Agnes rolled her eyes, teasing "Jared, were you born a jealousy jar or something?"

"Just figuring that out? So please, handle me with care - I'm fragile like a jar, ready to crack at the slightest hurt."

"Enough of this banter, I'm off to bed."

"Together?"

"I'm exhausted, we're only sleeping tonight, nothing else."

Jared chuckled. “Fair enough, but how about a little nightcap first...”

Their playful banter continued as they headed back to their room.

The next day marked the anniversary celebration of Agnes' alma mater. Amelia called early in the morning to ask when Agnes would arrive.

But a major disturbance had broken out at Hope Hospital, and Agnes rushed to cover the story.

The ordeal dragged on, and she had to apologize to Amelia, "I might not make it until three or four in the afternoon. It's just so hectic today, sorry."

Amelia was understanding. "You're a TV reporter now; I get it. Just come as soon as you can. A bunch of classmates are already here. I've booked us a spot at Hot N Sizzlin' for dinner."

Agnes finished her work sooner than expected and by three o'clock, she was leaving the TV station for Lakeside College.

Years had passed, but the school hadn't changed a bit.

It stood timeless, like a wise elder gazing over the ebb and flow of the world, witnessing the constant changes while remaining unchanged.

Stepping onto the campus, Agnes felt a rush of nostalgia.

The buoyant strides and youthful faces around her were a stark contrast to those shaped by the rough edges of society. Their eyes still held a bright, hopeful gleam.

The campus was abuzz with the anniversary celebration and open day activities. Banners waved in the breeze, and student clubs set up booths selling college memorabilia.

Volunteers were everywhere, welcoming back alumni for the occasion. None, however, approached Agnes. Dressed in her casual clothes, she blended in, looking just like another college student exploring the festivities.