Heartstrings on Fire Novel Full Episode
Chapter 191-200

Chapter 191

The vibe at Lakeside College was lit.

Today was the day when the two most popular girls at Lakeside College were going head to head in public.

At nine o’clock, East Hall and West Hall were kicking off their theater plays at the same time.

When the curtain fell, the hall with the most audience would be crowned, and their show would represent Lakeside College at the College Culture Festival.

Fast forward to 850

In the hall where Agnes was there were only a handful of people, all friends from The Journalism Society

Kerri was grinding her teeth, “Cecile has spent a load of money on small gifts, every person who goes to West Hall gets one. Many people were lured in by thatt

Agnes chuckled. “My defeat this time looks pretty grim”

“She’s playing this game just to win.”

Seeing Agnes looking down, Kerri asked with concem, “Agnes, are you okay?”

Agnes took a deep breath, “No matter what, even if there’s only one audience watching, we must finish the play Get ready, it’s about to start”

Kerri didn’t say anything more.

Just as she finished her sentence, a commotion was heard from the entrance of the hall

Everyone turned their heads to look.

A flood of students poured into the hall.

They were screaming at the top of their lungs, “Justin! It’s really Justin!! Justin, I love you!!”

Agnes was stunned.

There he was, the man with the sunglasses, slowly walking into the hall surrounded by bodyguards.

It was Justin

Agnes didn’t expect Justin to show up out of the blue.

Justin’s appearance completely changed the game.

Within minutes, the hall was jam-packed

Even the doorway was filled with people.

And tons of students were still trying to squeeze in, it was locking a bit out of control

Justin took a seat in the very middle of the first row, took off his sunglasses, revealing his signature charming smile

He didn’t say a word, just glanced at Agnes on stage.

The hall erupted with screams

All the actors on stage were also hyped up

Kern was gripping Agnes’ arm. “Justin, oh my god, it’s the real movie star Justin! I finally get to see him in person today”

Agnes looked at the hall that was now filled to the brim, and said to Kem, “Let’s get started”

The music began, and the play officially started

The play went smoothly and had a great response throughout.

Although at first, everyone’s attention was on Justin.

But Justin was watching intently, and gradually, everyone started to be drawn to the actors on stage.

When the cuntain fell, Justin was the first to clap

Then, the hall erupted with thunderous applause

Justin stood up

Suddenly, he had a bouquet of roses in his hand

Justin walked up to the stage and handed the roses to Agnes, “Agnes, you’re so great

Agnes was filled with gratitude. “Thank you. Justin”

The hall went wild again.

The mention of Justin’s name stirred up the hall

Some people even tried to rush the stage

But they were stopped by Justin’s bodyguards.

Despite this, the hall was becoming increasingly chaotic, with screams echoing

Many people tried to rush the stage, and the bodyguards seerned to be overwhelmed

Things wore about to go south. Agnes quickly grabbed Justin’s hand and said. “Wenued to leave, or things could get dangerous.”

Many people tried to rush the stage, and the bodyguards seemed to be overwhelmed.

Things were about to go south. Agnes quickly grabbed Justin’s hand and said, “We need to leave, or things could get dangerous.”

Chapter 192

Agnes just waltzed out the backdoor with Justin.

She casually grabbed a jacket and a hat from backstage for Justin to disguise himself.

When they slipped out the backdoor of the auditorium, nobody spotted them.

Agnes finally realized the power of being a celebrity.

Turns out, the crowd wasn’t just limited to the people inside the auditorium, there was a line stretching from the auditorium all the way to the school

gate

From the start to the end of the show, for one and a half hours, people were still pushing and shoving, trying to get into the auditorium.

Agnes managed to drag Justin into an empty lab.

When they finally stopped, Agnes huffed and panted, “Why did you suddenly show up?”

Justin chuckled, “I came to see your performance. You’ve been ghosting me for a while.”

Ever since the movie shooting wrapped up, Agnes had rarely been in touch with Justin.

“How did you know I had a performance today?”

“I just got back from the film festival yesterday, Ivan invited me to dinner and he mentioned it casually, so I came over today. You could’ve asked me for props. I could’ve gotten you better ones.”

Agnes felt a wave of gratitude, so it was Ivan who had helped her out.

Agnes told Justin, “You really saved my bacon today, what do you want to eat, my treat.”

“I did you a huge favor and all you are offering is a meal?”

Agnes laughed and asked, “Then what do you want?”

Justin thought for a moment, I haven’t decided yet, but you owe me one. You’ll have to pay it back when I need you.”

“You really know how to bargain.”

Thanks for the compliment. Justin said, slinging his arm over Agnes’s shoulder “Let’s go grab a bite.”

After lunch, Justin took off.

As an international superstar, it was really something for him to squeeze in some time to show support.

When Agnes went back to East Hall, the crowd had already dispersed.

But some of the main cast were still there.

Seeing Agnes return, Kerri rushed over and said, “Agnes, I can’t believe Justin came! We totally turned the tables on them. Did you know? All the audience at West Hall left. In the end, Cecile tore her costume and smashed the props mid-performance. It was so satisfying.”

Another actor chimed in, “You bet, she spent a fortune on souvenirs and now they’re piled up like a mountain backstage. No one wants them, she totally

took a hit this time”

“Agnes, you’re such a sneak.”

Speak of the devil, Cecile showed up.

Cecile’s furious voice echoed from the entrance.

Agnes looked over to see Cecile storming up to her, pointing at her nose, “You’re so shady. You got Justin to cause trouble.”

Agnes replied, “Cecile, it’s a fair competition. The winner is determined by the number of audience members, there were no rules against using any means to attract the audience. You bought a bunch of souvenirs and heavily promoted them on the notice board. You even tried to steal audience members from East Hall. You even deliberately damaged our props and costumes. Compared to your methods, ours seem pretty fair”

Kerri added, “Some people only allow themselves to do bad things but can’t stand others doing the same. After all the wrongs you’ve done, you still have the nerve to make a scene here. If the school had a ‘Thickest Skin’ award, you’d definitely win it”

‘Kerri, you’re gonna pay for this.” Cecile was thoroughly enraged.

Chapter 193

Cecile launched herself at Kerri out of nowhere.

Thud!

A dull sound echoed through the room.

Cecile’s arm was seized by Agnes, who flipped her onto the ground with one swift move.

Everyone around was stunned speechless.

Agnes moved like lightning, in one fluid motion, leaving everyone awestruck.

Who could’ve seen this coming? Agnes, having such a badass move up her sleeve?

Cecile, winded from the throw, lay on the ground for a good while before growling, “Agnes, you…”

How dare Agnes make a fool of her in public!

Struggling to her feet, Cecile spat, “Agnes, do you think you’ve won? The selection isn’t over yet, it’s still anyone’s game.”

With that, Cecile stormed out of the hall.

“What’s she up to now?” Kerri rolled her eyes.

Later in the afternoon, the heads of both drama clubs were summoned to the administrative office by Andrea.

“Agnes, your play was fantastic. And who would’ve thought that Justin even showed up? It gave our school a huge publicity boost, we even made the headlines. The principal’s thinking of rewarding you. So, I’m announcing that your drama club will be in our school culture festival. You’ve got half a month, so do your best to shine” Andrea said.

Agnes replied, “We won’t let you down.”

Just then, Cecile interjected, “Isn’t it a bit early to make a decision? I don’t think Agnes’ team can pull off the performance!”

“How so?”

“Romeo and Juliet without Romeo? How’s that supposed to work?”

Agnes furrowed her brows, an ominous feeling creeping up on her.

She couldn’t help but glance at Vinson, the actor playing Romeo.

Sure enough, Vinson was frowning guiltily. He mumbled, “I’m sorry There’s been a family emergency, and I’ve asked for a long leave. I can’t participate in the upcoming rehearsals, so…”

Agnes felt a chill run down her spine.

Kerri was the first to react, “What’s going on at home? Just tell us, we can figure this out together. But you can’t back out now, you know how much this selection means to Agnes.”

Vinson hung his head, his voice filled with regret, “Agnes, I’m really sorry.”

Kerri snapped, “What did Cecile offer you to betray us like this, Vinson? Are you really going to screw over everyone’s hard work these past two weeks Vinson kept his head lowered, his eyes shut and his fingers tightly clenched. All he could muster was a soft, “I’m sorry”

Cecile, on the other hand, burst into laughter. “Without Romeo, your team can’t perform. We’ll take your place. Agnes, it seems you’ve lost the bet after all. According to our agreement, you owe me three slaps I told you, I won’t show mercy”

Cecile’s arrogance was too much. She walked up to Agnes, and right in front of the principal Andrea, raised her hand to slap her.

But before her hand could land, it was stopped mid-air by a force.

“Enough!” Ryder’s voice echoed across the room.

Everyone was taken aback.

All eyes were now on the cool-headed guy….

Ryder then coldly declared, “I’ll take Vinson’s place.”

Chapter 194

“What did you just say?”

Cecile looked incredulous.

Ryder shrugged off Cecile’s hand.

Turning around, he told the director, “I’ll be stepping in for Vinson as Romeo.”

Even Andrea was taken aback by this dramatic turn of events.

But Agnes was indeed a talented actress, and her previous popularity would surely make the school event a hit.

Andrea said, “That’s the best possible scenario. Now, I declare Ryder will replace Vinson as Romeo, Spend some time rehearsing and get used to each other. Bring honor to our school in two weeks.”

As she left the office, Cecile was trembling with rage.,

Ryder simply walked away.

Agnes stared at his retreating figure, puzzled.

He always seemed to hate her, so why did he help her at this critical moment?

“Agnes, you got lucky this time, but don’t count on this kind of good fortune next time.”

With that, Cecile attempted to leave.

But Agnes blocked her path, “Isn’t it time we settled our scores?”

“What scores?” Cecile played dumb.

Agnes tossed a piece of paper at her, “Remember our bet? I won, so you need to go to the administration office and clear up that you intentionally slandered me on the school forum. I’ve already prepared the statement. Go now.

Cecile glanced at the statement, her fingers trembling with anger.

“I won’t read it.”

”

“Alright, then like you, I’ll give you three slaps. But I’ve been practicing Taekwondo since I was a kid, so my punches might be a bit hard. But to go easy on you would be a disservice to all the things you’ve done!

Agnes had already raised her arm.

“Wait, I’ll read it!”

Cecile gritted her teeth.

”

*

She hadn’t expected Agnes to be a Taekwondo practitioner, though it should’ve been obvious from the shoulder throw she did earlier that day. If Agnes really hit her, she might be disfigured.

Kerri told a classmate, “Go with her to the broadcasting room. Make sure she reads the statement word for word!”

Ten minutes later.

Cecile’s voice came over the school’s PA system, I’m Cecile, and I’m here today to clear up a misunderstanding I admit that I intentionally slandered Agnes on the school forum without any proof, and sabotaged her props during the play. I deeply regret my despicable actions and take this opportunity to sincerely apologize to Agnes, and I hope she can forgive me…”

Agnes and Kerri were in stitches as they heard Cecile gritting her teeth.

“Sweet justice! Look at her gritting her teeth in anger. She must be livid.”

Agnes smiled, ‘She’s been too arrogant. Hopefully, this will teach her a lesson

Thank goodness for Ryder’s help. Otherwise, you might’ve been in trouble.”

Feeling pleased, Agnes didn’t head back to Maplewood Manor after school, but went straight to Tim Tower.

Her public affair with Jared had garnered a lot of attention, and everyone now knew that this 20-year-old college student was actually the wife of the CEO of the Tim Group

Everyone greeted Agnes with respect.

Agnes hadn’t told Jared she was coming, so she didn’t take his private VIP elevator.

Instead, she took the staff elevator to the 99th floor.

The elevator opened directly to the secretarial department outside the CEO’s office.

Agnes had Interned here for a month, so she was familiar with everyone.

Everyone was surprised to see her. Her former Intern buddy, Mia Taylor, was the first to greet her, jokingly saying, ‘Good afternoon, Mrs. Whitfieldi How can assist you today?”

Chapter 195

Agnes blushed slightly, “Mia, stop teasing me.”

Mia chuckled, “I’m just stating facts. Are you here to see the boss? He’s in a meeting right now.”

The other people in the office were attracted by their conversation and came over to say hello.

“Lock, isn’t this the boss’s wife? We should show her some respect.”

Agnes felt a bit uncomfortable surrounded by everyone.

111 wait for him in his office.”

Agnes then made her way through the office towards the boss’s office.

Suddenly. Agnes bumped into someone.

A loud shriek filled the room, drawing everyone’s attention.

The person Agnes bumped into was none other than Yolanda Bowman.

Yolanda and Agnes were schoolmates and had previously interned together in the Tim Group’s secretary department.

Everyone knew about Yolanda’s crush on Jared.

Yolanda had been holding a cup of coffee and a stack of papers, all of which were now drenched.

“So being the boss’s wife means you can just bump into others? This is our workplace, not your playground. We need to work to support ourselves, but you have the boss to take care of you.”

Yolanda’s sharp and sarcastic words created a tense atmosphere.

Who would have thought Yolanda would dare to confront the boss’s wife like this?

But considering Yolanda’s background, it wasn’t surprising. She was the heiress of the Bowman family and was rumored to have been planted in the Tim Group.

Why would Yolanda not stay in her own company, but instead join the Tim Group’s secretary department?

Everyone could see her intentions.

During their internship, they had joked about Yolanda potentially becoming the boss’s wife.

After all, the Bowman family and the Whitfield family were a perfect match in terms of wealth and status.

But then Agnes showed up.

Naturally, Yolanda was fuming.

1

“It’s you who bumped into me on purpose,” Agnes responded calmly.

Agnes had been walking normally when Yolanda suddenly stood up and walked right into her.

Clearly, she was picking a fight.

Yolanda dropped her stack of papers, “These are my hard work for the day, the reports I painstakingly put together, and now they’re ruined. My day’s work is gone. Why would I falsely accuse you, Agnes?”

Agnes frowned.

People around started whispering. “That report is the company’s semi-annual employee reimbursement form, it’s all manually sorted out, very troublesome. Yolanda wouldn’t deliberately mess it up.”

“But she’s too bold, even if it’s Agnes fault, she’s in a higher position now, and Yolanda dares to confront her directly.”

“She’s the daughter of the Bowman family, of course she’s not afraid. Besides. I’ve always been puzzled, the boss is already married, why is she still waiting here?”

“She’s

just too stubborn”

Agnes couldn’t defend herself.

Suddenly, someone shouted, “The boss is coming out,”

Everyone turned their eyes towards the meeting room.

Sure enough, Jared came out of the meeting room and noticed the situation.

He seemed to notice Agnes and headed straight over.

Agnes always deemed to inadvertently cause inisunderstandings.

And she

currently had no

to explain herself clearly.

Agnes blushed, she originally wanted to surprise Jared, but instead seemed to have caused him trouble..

Jared had noticed Agnes for quite some time.

Chapter 196

He glanced at the shattered cup on the floor and the reports stained with coffee scattered around, asking solemnly, “What the hell happened?” Yolanda jumped in to explain first, “Boss, I was about to bring you these reports to look over, but she intentionally bumped into me. I know she’s your wife, but she needs to apologize to me. I worked my butt off on these reports all day.”

Agnes was fuming.

There’s no way Jared would believe her, right?

Agnes blushed as she looked at Jared.

But Jared was unfazed, asking Yolanda, You’re saying she bumped into you on purpose. But why would she do that?”

Yolanda was taken aback, “I think it might be jealousy, She might have misunderstood that there’s something going on between us…

Everyone in the room gasped in surprise.

Yolanda really had guts to say anything.

Wasn’t this just stirring the pot between Jared and Agnes?

Even if there was nothing going on, this was just asking for misunderstandings.

Jared’s voice remained calm, “So you’re saying that Agnes misunderstood that there’s something going on between us, thus she was upset and bumped into you on purpose?”

Jared’s gaze never left Yolanda,

Yolanda’s cheeks flushed.

She had never been under such intense scrutiny from the boss before.

This feeling… was intoxicating

Yolanda replied, “I think that’s it.”

Would Jared understand her feelings by saying this?

In fact, she had always liked this man and believed she was better than Agnes in every way.

Although the Pritchard family was also wealthy, it fell short compared to the Bowman family.

She didn’t understand why Jared would choose Agnes when they were both interning at the Tim Group.

Jared raised an eyebrow slightly.

Then he said coldly, “Since your presence here causes misunderstandings for my wife, you can hand in your resignation to HR tomorrow”

Everyone gasped in surprise.

Agnes’ eyes widened in shock…

When Jared turned to Agnes, his gaze softened significantly.

He said, “Next time you come to see me, let me know in advance. I’ll arrange for someone to pick you up so you won’t run into such troubles” Everyone was shocked.

This blatant favoritism was too much.

Almost all faces showed signs of envy and jealousy

Yolanda couldn’t believe what she was hearing, “Boss, what did you say? You want me to quit?”

Jared didn’t bother with her anymore, coldly saying, “I don’t like repeating myself

With that, he took Agnes’ hand and walked towards his office.

Yolanda was shaking with rage, sitting down on a nearby chair, her fingers turning white Everyone was dumbstruck.

Jared actually asked the person Agnes didn’t like to resign, how bossy was that?

Even if the boss was smart and saw through the situation, he shouldn’t be so rash.

Not to mention Yolanda’s background, he should show some respect to the Bowman family.

Agnes followed Jared into the office

Chapter 197

Once they were in, Agnes said, “Honestly, I don’t think this is right.”

Jared chuckled, “What do you think isn’t right?”

Agnes said, “The whole thing about you firing Yolanda. Even though she was deliberately making things difficult for me, it didn’t have to result in her losing her job. Also, the Bowman family isn’t just any ordinary family…”

“I got one question for you, Jared cut her off.

Agnes was taken aback.

Jared asked, “Are you happy that I fired her?”

After a moment of hesitation, Agnes blurted out, “Yes!”

Jared laughed softly, ruffled Agnes’s hair and said, “That’s all that matters. And this serves as a warning. Does anyone think they can mess with my wife, Jared’s wife? Let’s see who dares to bother you in the future,”

Jared’s words were said in a casual manner.

But Agnes felt like she was completely submerged in a jar of honey.

Suddenly, she stepped forward and wrapped her arms around Jared’s waist, “Honey, you’re going to spoil me rotten.”

Jared turned, cupped Agnes’s face and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead, “Spoil you rotten, I will. It’s my pleasure.”

Agnes was beaming inside.

Just as the two were planning to go out for a lavish meal, they received a call from Alyssa.

She said that Tim had just suffered a heart attack and was hospitalized.

So, they hurried off to the hospital.

Tim was already settled in a VIP suite.

Upon seeing Jared and Agnes, he chided Alyssa, “I told you, it’s just an old problem. You didn’t have to bring Jared and Agnes into this.”

Agnes approached the bed, “How could we not know? If you don’t tell us, we’ll worry even more.”

Tim looked at Agnes’s worried expression and chuckled, “I know my own body. We all have to accept aging. But I’m glad you’re here”

Alyssa chimed in with a serious look, “Lucky I found him in time. He was gasping for air on the floor. The maid wasn’t careful, forgot to give him his medicine. I’ve fired all of them.

Tim added, “You’re just overreacting, even fired the servants.”

Alyssa turned to Jared, “Jared, I need to go to France for a fashion show. I think you two should move back home for a while. I don’t trust the new staff yet. Someone needs to keep an eye on them.”

Jared nodded, “Alright.”

Leaving the hospital, Agnes regretted, “We should’ve moved back home earlier. Today was too close. I can’t even imagine what would have happened.” Jared stayed calm, “Don’t worry. It’s just another one of Alyssa and Tim’s schemes. They put on a show every year, hoping I’ll move back.”

Agnes was shocked. You mean Tim was faking it?”

Jared nodded, “Didn’t he look perfectly healthy? And if it was serious, wouldn’t Ryder be there?”

“Maybe he doesn’t know?”

‘Maybe he just doesn’t want to be part of their drama.”

Agnes was speechless.

“Why don’t you just expose the truth?” she asked.

Jared smiled, “Tim cares a lot about his pride. If 1 expose the truth, wouldn’t that be a slap in his face? Let’s just move back for a few days, so his efforts won’t go in vain.”

So, the next day, Agnes and Jared officially moved back to the Whitfield Manor with no set return date.

Chapter 198

Tim was out of the hospital the next day.

At dinner the next day, Agnes saw Ryder again.

Although Ryder had agreed to replace Vinson in the role, he never heard from her didn’t contact her, and didn’t participate in the rehearsal. That was a problem because the school festival was in half a month, and the school was taking the performance seriously.

Therefore, it was necessary to hurry up and rehearse. After dinner, Agnes saw that Ryder didn’t go back to his room but was bathing Oscar in the yard.

Ryder wasn’t keeping a straight face, he was talking to Oscar while bathing him. Where on earth did you go today? You’re all muddy. Lucky I’m bathing you, or if Jared saw it you would be in trouble.”

There was a touch of doting in Ryder’s words, and even a hint of a smile on his lips.

Agnes walked over and squatted next to Oscar, patting his back and said, “I never thought you’d look so cute when you smile.”

Ryder was taken aback, then instantly put on his poker face: “I can’t stand people cozying up to me.”

Agnes played innocent: “I wasn’t talking about you, I was praising Oscar. Look at him, isn’t he adorable when he smiles, just like a cherub.”

As she spoke, Agnes intentionally teased Oscar’s face.

Ryder just snorted, a hint of blush on his face, and bowed his head.

He seemed a bit miffed.

Agnes felt that Ryder wasn’t as icy as the rumors said.

It was actually fun to joke around with him.

Agnes chuckled silently, then put on a serious face: “Ryder, thank you”

As Ryder was rinsing Oscar’s paws, he said coldly: “No need for thanks, I’m just doing it for Jared.”

Agnes suddenly felt that Ryder might not dislike her as much as she thought.

Agnes said, “No matter who you’re doing it for, you helped me, and I appreciate it. By the way, let’s start rehearsing at East Hall tomorrow night.” Ryder didn’t respond.

Agnes was still waiting for his answer.

Oscar was getting impatient from the bath, trying to break free several times.

Ryder suddenly said, “Help me hold him. He always gets annoyed when I wash his back paws”

Agnes quickly held Oscar’s neck and pressed him with her body.

By the time the back paws were washed, both of them were panting.

Just as they stood up,

Oscar also suddenly stood up and shook his fur vigorously.

Agnes was all wet,

She almost screamed, “Oscar, did you do that on purpose?”

Seeing Agnes’s angry face, Ryder suddenly burst into laughter.

His laugh was really charming.

Agnes said, “See, you should learn from Oscar, smile more, you look good when you smile.”

Ryder’s laugh was really good-looking.

His smile was clean and pure, like the first rays of sunlight on a snow-capped peak.

Agnes was really praising him this time, but his face turned gloomy again in an instant.

Well, he was indeed a moody boy.

Ryder said, “You should go inside, you’re all wet.”

Ryder was already avoiding eye contact.

Agnes looked at her clothes and nodded, “Then I’ll go in first then”

Chapter 199

When Agnes walked in, Jared and Alyssa were in the living room having a chat

Seeing Agnes come in all drenched, they asked, “Agnes, what happened to you??

Agnes laughed and said, “Just gave Oscar a bath, ended up soaked. I’m heading upstairs to change clothes.”

With that, Agnes headed upstairs

After a while, Ryder also came in all wet, still holding Oscar by the hand.

Alyssa remarked, “So they both bathed Oscar together? It seems like their relationship has improved.”

Jared chuckled, I’m heading upstairs.”

Agnes’s clothes were wet, so she decided to take a shower when she got to her room..

When she came out of the bathroom, she ran into Jared.

Jared sat on the edge of the bed, patting the spot next to him, “Come here.”

As Agnes toweled her hair, she walked over and sat next to Jared.

Jared naturally took the towel from Agnes and helped her dry her hair.

Agnes leaned comfortably against his shoulder, like a little kitten.

Jared asked, “You and Ryder made up?”

At this, Agnes’s eyes lit up.

She told Jared about the school play competition and the wager.

Finally, Agnes said, “He was really reliable when it mattered, but it’s all because he respects you, so the person I should be thanking is you.”

Agnes snuggled in Jared’s arms.

Jared felt that this girl was different from before.

He could feel that before, she was a bit scared of him, not daring to look him in the eye when she spoke.

Whenever they were together, she was always very passive

But now, she was actually taking the initiative to be affectionate.

She had become more lively and radiant.

Jared had to admit, he enjoyed this change, enjoyed her dependence, admiration, and love.

Jared leaned down to kiss her, “I prefer if you show your gratitude in practical ways.”

“No, my hair is still wet.”

“No? Don’t worry, I can handle it.”

The next day, Jared drove Agnes to school.

He just happened to see Ryder also getting ready to leave on his bicycle.

Although Ryder came from a well-off family, he never needed anyone to drop him off or pick him up from school, he always cycled. Jared offered him a ride, but was rejected.

This made Agnes feel a bit embarrassed.

Agnes said to Jared, “Maybe I should start biking to school too, your car is too flashy, every time you drop me off it draws a crowd”

Jared thought for a bit, “Sounds good, I travel for work sometimes and may not be able to drop you off every day.”

After a day of classes and dinner, Agnes headed to East Hall.

”

It was time to start preparing for the school festival performance. Even thought was still the same play as before, with the change of the male lead. everyone had to readjust.

The other members had already gathered in the auditorium.

Kerri asked, “Will Ryder actually come back? What do we do if he doesn’t show up for rehearsal?”

Agnes had already raised this issue with Ryder the night before.

But whether Ryder would actually come back, Agnes was not sure.

“He’s here.” Cynthia suddenly exclaimed excitedly, pointing at the entrance.

Ryder walked in.

Chapter 200

He was wearing a white shirt with a black shoulder bag slung over his shoulder

Outside the auditorium, the sun was setting.

He seemed to stride in, riding the glow of the sunset, exuding a charming nonchalance within his cool demeanor.

Several girls in the auditorium praised his handsomeness at the same time,” so handsome!”

Agnes felt delighted and said to Ryder, You’re here.”

Ryder’s voice was cold, “Wasn’t it you who said rehearsals start today?”

The rehearsal officially began.

After changing into costumes, everyone couldn’t help but marvel at him once again.

“OMG. Ryder looks so handsome in costume.” The rehearsal went smoothly, considering that everyone was familiar with the script due to the previous auditions.

Towards the end of the rehearsal, Cynthia walked down the stage and took out her camera to snap a photo.

Suddenly, Ryder lost control, as if he couldn’t maintain his balance. He crouched down, looking terrified, holding his head, and uttered in a cold, almost harsh tone: “Stop taking pictures!”

Everyone was stunned, clueless about what had just happened.

Even Cynthia was taken aback and didn’t know how to react.

Agnes, on the other hand, recalled her previous question to Jared about why there were no childhood photos of Ryder at home.

Jared mentioned that Ryder had a fear of camera lenses.

At the time, Agnes didn’t inquire further. She simply found the question peculiar.

But Agnes never imagined it was true.

After a while, Ryder regained composure.

Ryder said, “Sorry, but can we not take photos next time?”

*

Cynthia replied, “But on the day of the performance, many people will definitely be taking photos. If you can’t handle that, how will you perform?”

On the way home, Ryder and Agnes walked one after the other.

Whitfield Manor wasn’t far from the school, about a half-hour journey.

Initially, Agnes planned to take a taxi back.

However, seeing Ryder pushing his bicycle without riding it, she quietly followed behind him.

Cynthia’s words had clearly affected Ryder.

After dinner, Agnes pulled Jared into the room and asked, “What’s the story with Ryder’s fear of camera lenses?”

Jared frowned and said, “He was kidnapped when he was young. The kidnappers took numerous photos to threaten the Thomas family. That’s when he developed this psychological trauma”

Agnes was incredibly surprised. “So, he really is the son of the richest man, Cillan Thomas”

In fact, there were many rumors about Ryder’s biological father.

The most widely accepted version was that he was the child of Cilian and Alyssa Whitfield, the wealthiest couple in this country.

Cilian was notorious for his philandering ways and had already been married three times.

His marriage to Alyssa was kept low-profile back then, so it remained unknown to the public.

But now Agnes learned that Alyssa was Cilian’s second wife

Ryder was also acknowledged as the third son of the Thomas family.

It was reported that Cilian had been trying to bring Ryder back home for years, but Alyssa strongly opposed it.

Sighing, Agnes asked, “So, there really isn’t any solution for Ryder’s fear of camera lenses?”

Jared replied, “We’ve tried numerous times throughout the years, even consulted several psychologists, but the impact on him was significant That incident also influenced his introverted and solitary nature’

As Jared spoke, he appeared full of self-blame

That year, he was 12, and Ryder was 6 when they went to the amusement park together, and later…

Agnes tightly held Jared’s hand, “You can’t blame yourself. Don’t be too hard on yourself. After all, you were just a child back then

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