Heartstrings on Fire novel Chapter 158

Jared asked, "What's up with Ryder?"

With a shrug, Alyssa replied, "Isn't he always like this?"

Jared said, "I feel like he's been acting a bit off lately. Did something happen?"

Alyssa nonchalantly said, "He's a teenage boy, they're all a bit stubborn. Besides, you're his role model, always pushing himself to be like you. I'm not worried at all. With you being so wonderful, my son can't be far off."

Agnes, however, was feeling a bit uneasy. She suspected that Ryder's sudden change might have to do with her. She was, after all, the stranger who had suddenly intruded into their family. And she was about the same age as him, even a few months younger, yet she was now his elder, stealing his attention, even overpowering him with seniority.

Alyssa had mentioned earlier that Jared was his role model, but she had stolen his role model's affection. It was enough to throw anyone off balance.

Before, Agnes thought, she and Ryder were sort of friends. His current coldness must be because of this.

Agnes thought it necessary to have a chat with him, to tell him she couldn't steal Jared's love for him.

So that evening, Alyssa prepared a fruit platter. When it was time to deliver it to Ryder's room, Agnes volunteered, "I can take it."

She approached Ryder's room with the fruit platter, a bit nervous.

But she knocked on the door anyway.

No response.

Agnes knocked again.