Heartstrings on Fire (Agnes and Jared) novel Chapter 747

If Agnes owed anyone anything in her life, it was probably Ryder. Because she could never reciprocate everything Ryder had done for her.

Agnes started, "Ryder, have you ever noticed that you're always comparing yourself to your uncle? You have a mental scale for wins and losses. You say you don't care about them, but in reality, you care more than anyone. Isn't your persistence with me just a way to compensate for what you've lost? Ryder, have you ever asked yourself if you love me because I'm your uncle's woman, or because you genuinely like me?"

Ryder seemed to freeze for a moment, then he suddenly chuckled, "Agnes, I never thought you'd think like this. Are you just trying to make excuses to ease your conscience?"

Agnes apologized, "I'm sorry, Ryder."

"Forget it, I've heard enough apologies. You've never truly understood me." Ryder turned around and added, "No, you've never really wanted to understand me." With that, Ryder left.

Agnes stood on the balcony of the Whitfield Manor for a long time. Watching Ryder drive away, her heart ached. This was a predictable outcome. Her words were intentional. The only way to extinguish Ryder's hope was to disappoint him, deny and trample on his feelings. But Agnes couldn't bring herself to be ruthless.

There was too much compassion in her heart, because Ryder was more than just a friend to her.

Without his care for her for the past three years, she wouldn't have regained her confidence and become who she was today.

Jared came over and draped a coat over Agnes, "That's enough. Stop thinking about it."

Tim didn't come out to see her all night.

After dinner, Agnes and Jared left.