Heartstrings on Fire (Agnes and Jared)
Chapter 815

Ryder was always the epitome of precision and order, a man who couldn't tolerate the slightest deviation from his meticulously crafted plans. He cut a striking figure in a charcoal gray suit, a color that might have looked drab on another man but on him, it was nothing short of stunning.

When Ryder strode into the room, there was a regal chill in each step he took. Agnes watched him, her mind suddenly catapulting back to their school days when his lopsided backpack and casual swagger through the campus corridors would attract all the girls' attention.

Back then, he was the dashing young man in crisp white shirts. Now, he had transformed into a sharply outlined titan of business.

Agnes approached him, professionalism coating her greeting, "Mr. Whitfield, it's an honor to interview you."

For a moment, Ryder's gaze landed on Agnes, then shifted away. His response was formal, "Let's begin."

As they turned to start, Ramona tugged at Agnes' sleeve, whispering excitedly, "He's even more handsome in person than in photos!"

The interview sailed by smoothly, wrapping up in less than half an hour. It challenged Agnes' preconceived notions of Ryder. She had thought he was quiet, only animated when discussing his area of expertise -medicine. But today's questions veered into finance, and Ryder navigated them with ease. Perhaps Jared was right; he really was a business savant.

After the interview, Agnes stood, offering a professional smile, "Mr. Whitfield, thank you for your time. I hope we have the chance to collaborate again."

Ryder extended his hand for a handshake. Agnes hesitated for just a moment before accepting it. His grip was firm and warm, contradicting his icy exterior. As Agnes tried to withdraw her hand, Ryder held on. Looking up, she met Ryder's intense gaze.

"Ryder," Agnes gently prompted.

Only then did he release her, saying, "Thank you all for your hard work. Let's have a casual dinner tonight; I've booked a private dining room at Caesar International Hotel."

Before Agnes could respond, Ramona clapped her hands with delight, "Mr. Whitfield, that's incredibly generous!"

Caesar International Hotel was renowned for its exquisite dining, notorious for its exclusivity and difficulty in securing reservations, typically reserved for high-ranking officials and dignitaries. The others didn't think twice; they were too excited and intrigued to refuse.

Agnes wasn't about to jinx the mood either. "Well then, I accept with gratitude, Mr. Whitfield. Thank you."

With a rare, slight curl of his lips-which was undeniably charming, even when devoid of genuine mirth-Ryder nodded.

As Ryder left, Ben and Hans began to pack up, and Ramona, briefly dazed by Ryder's smile, suddenly nudged Agnes, "Boss, spill it. Do you know Mr. Whitfield or what?"