Heartstrings on Fire novel Chapter 403

The orchid, with its rare and delicate breed, stood blooming beautifully. Worth quite a bit, it only unveiled its petals every few years. Following its accidental destruction, most believed its days of splendor were over. But, to everyone's surprise, Agnes intervened.

"I took the orchid after its accident," Agnes shared with Alyssa. "I sought help from a renowned professor at the agricultural university. It was a long shot, but together we revived it. I've cared for it ever since, and now it blooms. It belongs with you."

However, the orchid had always been a point of contention between Agnes and Alyssa. Ever since the incident, Agnes felt Alyssa's attitude towards her had drastically changed. Wanting to bridge the gap, Agnes believed returning the orchid would mend their bond. However, Alyssa's cold response, "I got the message," left Agnes disheartened.

Dinner began soon after, with family members Ryder and Tim joining. The table showcased Alyssa's delicious turkey, yet Agnes found herself distracted, the tension making it hard to eat. Tim and Alyssa soon departed for a private conversation, likely because of something Cilian had mentioned earlier. Jared soon followed, leaving Agnes in solitude.

Despite the festive lights adorning the yard on this Christmas Eve, Agnes felt a deep pang of loneliness. As she retreated to her room, there was an unexpected knock at her door. Assuming Jared would have entered without announcing himself, she wondered who it could be.

Opening the door, she found Ryder. "I want to talk," he said. Agnes, though surprised, agreed. They headed to the yard, seeking solace under a tree with two swing chairs. As they settled, Oscar, the family dog, playfully ran around them, tail wagging in the night.

Agnes asked, "What's eating you lately?"

Ryder stretched his legs, looking down, "Agnes, do you think I should go back to my dad?"

Agnes didn't expect Ryder to ask this.

"The Thomas family?"

"He's come to see me a lot. He promised to get me on the leading research team in neurology if I go back."

Agnes didn't know much about this field.

But she could tell, this was a huge temptation for Ryder.

Ryder continued, "I've applied many times, but I didn't have enough experience, so I didn't qualify. This research team is top-notch, I've always hoped to join them."

Agnes was silent for a while, "Aside from this research team, have you thought about going back to the Thomas family?"

Ryder didn't answer.

After a while, Ryder finally said, "Where I live, grandpa and mom only see Jared. No matter what I do, I can't get their attention. Sometimes I think, maybe I should try somewhere else. Maybe then mom would think of me."