Heartstrings on Fire novel Chapter 1214

The next day.

Jared opened his eyes to find Agnes already awake, staring blankly at the ceiling. He reached out to touch her cheek, "Why are you up so early? What's on your mind?"

Agnes spoke up, "Let's bring Nocturne home."

Nocturne had been staying at Serenity Hall for over half a year now, and his condition had improved significantly. Though he slept more than the average person, he was pretty much able to live like a normal child now.

"Yeah," Jared agreed, "It's time for him to start school."

Agnes truly missed Nocturne. It was the longest Nocturne had ever been away from her. And during this time, Agnes had been through a lot—several brushes with death. The more she experienced, the more she realized the importance of family. Life is but a brief journey, each moment precious. She and Jared had been apart for so long. Now, all she wanted was for their family of three to be together forever.

Agnes turned and wrapped her arms around Jared's neck, burying her face in his chest. "Are you busy today? Would you come with me?" she asked, her voice carrying a childlike whine.

Agnes was usually considerate, always reluctant to impose on his time. But sometimes, being too considerate made Jared feel as if he wasn't needed. Jared was actually pleased that Agnes was making a request. "I'm not busy. Let's go pick up our son," Jared agreed immediately.

He had been quite busy lately, but for Jared, Agnes always came first. Skipping work was a rare treat. They lazed around until the sun was high, then took their time over breakfast. After getting ready, they set off, filled with the light-heartedness and anticipation of a family outing.

The flight from Willowbrook Town to the Capital was just two hours. By the time they arrived, it was only noon. Agnes and Jared went straight to Serenity Hall after leaving the airport. They were regular visitors to Serenity Hall by now, and almost everyone there knew them. The staff treated them like family, greeting them with smiles before going about their business.

Agnes and Jared headed to the backyard and found Nocturne awake, drying herbs in the yard with Esther. White, the little wolf pup, was dozing in the sun at the front door. Esther was earnestly teaching Nocturne how to identify the herbs.

It was Esther who first noticed them, and immediately her eyes lit up. She ran over excitedly, "Agnes, are you here to see Nocturne?"

Seeing her smile, Agnes felt a twinge of guilt. Nocturne and Esther had been inseparable for the past six months. Now that Agnes was taking Nocturne back, what would happen to Esther? Facing Esther's innocent smile, Agnes felt a pang of guilt and reluctance.

Esther rushed towards them, and Agnes lifted her into a hug. Touching Agnes's face, Esther said, "Agnes, you look a bit pale. You have dampness in your body. You should boil 30 grams of poria, 10 grams of atractylodes, 20 pieces of winter melon peel, and a handful of corn silk. Drink the broth; it'll help you feel better soon."