The word aunt seemed to strike a raw nerve in Ryder. That word had been his worst enemy for the longest time. He had spent four years, four years of tireless efforts, trying to rid himself of the association with that term. But now, he had simply gone overseas to conduct a seminar. And suddenly, everything seemed to revert to the past.
The cage that had been hanging over his head came crashing down, trapping him once again.
Ryder simply could not accept it. Even though he had matured and become calm over the years, seeing the guilt on Agnes' face, he understood everything and couldn't bear it any longer.
Agnes, having spent so many years with Ryder, had come to understand his character.
People often said that Dr. Ryder was cold, that he was an iceberg in human form. But Agnes knew that Ryder was simply used to hiding behind an icy exterior to protect himself.
Beneath that cold exterior, Ryder was a man of flesh and blood, with warm emotions.
Turning to Jared, Agnes said, "I'd like to have a word with Ryder in private."
Agnes was afraid that the two might come to blows again.
"I'll be in my room, then," Jared responded.
Agnes then moved to the small balcony on the second floor, and Ryder followed suit.
For the first time, Ryder couldn't hold back. He grabbed Agnes' hand, "Tell me what's going on."
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