Heartstrings on Fire novel Chapter 1143

Kearney noticed Agnes lost in thought across the dinner table, where a comforting spread of meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and green beans lay—a reminder of happier times when the family gathered in abundance. Now, it was just the two of them under the dim dining room light.

"Hey, Septima, why aren't you eating? What’s on your mind?" Kearney's voice broke through Agnes's reverie.

Agnes quickly collected herself, shaking her head. "It's nothing, really. Just thinking about how lively our meals used to be. Now, it's just us."

Kearney sighed deeply, the weight of their situation palpable. "You can talk to me about this, but let's not mention anything to Uncle John. He's already been through so much. Bringing this up would only add to his pain."

Agnes nodded. "I understand, I won't bring it up."

Kearney's appetite seemed to wane as well. "I never thought things would come to this... It's my fault. If I hadn't been drunk that night, if I'd been more vigilant... I can't shake the feeling that I'm to blame for our brother's death, and our uncles' too."

Seeing Kearney struggle, Agnes offered comfort. "You mustn't think that way. No one could have predicted this. You've done everything you could. Uncle John blames himself, and so do you, but it's not your fault. The dead don't suffer, but the living have to carry on. You're the pillar of Albert’s Arms now. You can't lose hope."

Kearney looked into her eyes, searching for reassurance. "You haven't heard the rumors going around?"

Puzzled, Agnes asked, "What rumors?"

"People are saying I did the unthinkable—killed our brother and father to take over Albert’s Arms."

Agnes was initially shocked, then indignant. "Who would say such terrible things? They're clearly trying to frame you. I know you, Kearney. I would never believe those rumors."

Kearney managed a faint smile, comforted by her loyalty. "You're the best, Septima."

Standing up, he added, "I'm not really hungry. I'll go check on Phoenix. You should eat."

After Kearney left, Agnes's composed facade slipped away, revealing deep concern. Her heart raced with the realization that Kearney's words were a test of her loyalty.

She was grateful for her brief acting experience, which served her well in this tense moment. Despite her calm exterior, a sense of dread lingered.

Determined to find out the truth about Kearney's involvement, Agnes felt an urgency to uncover the facts quickly. With Phoenix and Uncle John so vulnerable, she felt a great responsibility.

She decided to stay for a few days but found it hard to sleep. Kearney, too, hadn't left that night. Inquiring discreetly, Agnes learned from Bain, the caretaker, that Kearney returned every three days, always staying a night or two.

In the villa, Kearney devoted nearly all his time to Phoenix, who remained silent. Whether sitting quietly or handling business nearby, Kearney kept Phoenix within his sight.