Heartstrings on Fire novel Chapter 1215

Agnes couldn't help but laugh and plant a kiss on Esther's rosy cheek, "Our little miracle worker is truly remarkable, already playing doctor."

Esther's cheeks flushed even rosier, a modest smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. "It's really just the basics," Esther giggled, her humility shining through.

Esther, truly, was a prodigy in the making, her talent in medicine undeniable. Even the old man, whenever he spoke of her, couldn't hide his pride, his words overflowing with admiration.

Nocturne had already stood up, "Mom, Dad, you're here."

Agnes nodded, then asked, "And how about the old man?"

Esther replied, "My mentor is inside the apothecary, mixing some medicines."

Taking Nocturne away would naturally require the old man's blessing. Jared went straight in. But Agnes hesitated at the doorway. She needed to consider the children's feelings. The prospect of separation, she knew, would be hard on them both.

Looking into Esther's sparkling eyes, Agnes found herself at a loss for words. Yet, she gently set Esther down, saying, "Honey, there's something I need to tell you."

"What is it, Agnes?" Esther asked, her voice laced with curiosity.

"Nocturne might have to leave. We're taking him back home. He can't stay here anymore," Agnes explained gently.

Esther's expression changed instantly, her eyes darting towards Nocturne, her face falling like a deflated balloon. Agnes felt a pang in her heart, as if it were pricked by a needle. Esther, head bowed, remained silent.

"I know how close you two have been," Agnes continued softly, "But Nocturne's health is much better now, and it's time for him to start school. Don't worry, we'll visit often, or maybe you can come stay with us for a while."

Deep down, Agnes wished she could take Esther with them. But Esther had her own family, and was the old man's prized apprentice—leaving wasn't an option. Despite her fondness for the child, Agnes knew they had to part ways.

Esther, finally looking up, murmured, "I understand, Agnes. The master said from the beginning, Nocturne was only to stay for six months. And now, that time has passed." Still, her heart seemed heavy with sorrow.

Finding the right words of comfort seemed impossible for Agnes. Finally, she suggested, "How about I talk to the old man? Maybe you can come stay with us for a bit?"

Esther's face brightened at the idea, "I'd like that, staying with Nocturne."

Agnes knew separations took time to adjust to. After all, the two children had spent six months together. A period of adaptation was only natural.

Just as she was about to discuss it with the old man, he appeared. Having overheard their conversation, he chimed in, "Today seems to be a day of serendipity. You've come to take Nocturne, and coincidentally, Esther's parents called. They'll be picking her up to live with them, no longer under the roof of Serenity Hall."

Agnes was genuinely surprised. Esther's parents were coming too? She had always wanted to meet them, having missed the opportunity before. Today could be a good day, after all.