Bride behind the mask novel (Marguerite) novel Chapter 831

Manley finished packing his backpack and strolled over. "Are you heading to see Margot?" he inquired.

Hayes nodded with determination. The opportunity was too good to pass up; he had to find out something today.

Manley was well aware that Hayes had been trying to uncover the mystery behind Margot's identity and hadn't given up despite multiple setbacks.

"I'd actually like to tag along," Manley admitted, "but I promised to skateboard with the neighbor's kid today, so just be careful, alright?"

Hayes nodded. "Sure thing."

Manley was about to leave but suddenly remembered how Hayes had inadvertently caused Margot some distress on previous occasions. He hesitated, then cautioned, "Hey, make sure you don't upset Margot, okay? Her dad seems pretty stern, and if you mess with her, you might find yourself in hot water."

They parted ways once outside the school. Manley was picked up by Chuck and driven back to his house, while Hayes grabbed a taxi to Margot's place.

Upon arrival, he noticed that Margot's home, nestled in the Cherry Blossom Estates, was conveniently close to Poppy Petal Fragrances. The place was crawling with security personnel, all clad in identical black suits and sunglasses, looking rather intimidating.

As Hayes approached, a guard stepped in to block his path. "And you are?"

"I'm here to see Margot," Hayes replied confidently.

The guard scrutinized him from head to toe. Meanwhile, Hayes caught sight of Margot swinging under an oak tree in the yard and pointed her out. "I'm her classmate."

Margot looked up at the sound of voices, joyfully leaping off the swing and running towards Hayes. "What are you doing here?"

Margot froze for a moment. She had been genuinely happy to see Hayes, but realized he was here on a fact-finding mission.

Pouting, she dodged the question. "Aren't you here to see me? Why bring up my dad? Can't you see I'm injured?"

She pointed to a scrape on her forehead. Hayes, feeling a twinge of guilt, was unsure if Margot was truly upset or just wary of his probing. Nonetheless, he leaned in and gently blew on her wound in a comforting gesture.

Margot beamed and dragged Hayes off to play with her toys. He humored her, though his eyes were constantly scanning the room for clues.

Before long, the sound of a car braking reached their ears. Margot perked up, glancing out the window. "Dad's back!"

With a squeal of excitement, she dashed out, leaving Hayes alone in the room. Without missing a beat, he headed straight for Margot's desk, eyes on the prize—a laptop. If Margot was indeed the elusive online friend, there would surely be a record of their chats on there.