Heartstrings on Fire novel Chapter 1098

Agnes felt a tad guilty about playing the third wheel.

Quickly, she piped up, "Hey big bro, Phenix, I'm gonna step out for a bit."

Heading towards the exit, she bumped into Nate who had just returned and was promptly dragged away too.

Agnes made her way to the hotel lobby.

The crowd had already gathered there.

Originally an aristocratic mansion, the Ford Hotel had retained much of its classic charm.

The lobby was adorned with a thick, gold-trimmed red carpet.

The banquet tables were traditional mahogany, round ones.

The evening promised a simple Western-style ceremony.

Jared was seated at the main table.

Agnes walked over and took a seat beside him.

Jared casually took her hand and asked, "Why are your hands so cold?"

"It's nothing. Just went out to check on the fireworks. It's a bit chilly outside," Agnes replied.

Jared took off his jacket and draped it over Agnes, a gentle gesture.

Agnes just smiled back at him.

Across from Agnes sat Elton, silently observing the scene without any expression.

It seemed their relationship was indeed strong.

The wedding reception started shortly after.

Phenix and Sean made their entrance together.

Most of those present were old friends of Reggie.

Phenix, Sean, and Kearney were the three kids Reggie had taken in since they were little.

Thus, the elders had almost watched them grow up.

After the ceremony, Phenix and Sean began toasting table by table.

Reggie wasn't seated at the main table.

"Let's not have you go out in the cold. Find a good spot inside to watch," Jared suggested.

Agnes thought for a moment and nodded.

Having been scared by firecrackers as a child, she was wary of lighting them herself.

So even if she went out, she'd likely just be in Jared's way.

After Jared left, Agnes headed to the nearest terrace.

The banquet hall of the Ford Hotel was surrounded by terraces, forming a small, aerial garden – a perfect spot to watch fireworks.

The terrace was indeed chilly with the breeze.

Jared's jacket provided some warmth.

"You shouldn't stand out in the cold," a deep voice suddenly said from beside her.

Agnes's heart pricked slightly at the sound, a twinge of pain.

Turning around, she saw Elton.

Without a word, she turned to head inside, but Elton suddenly called out, "Agnes."