Heartstrings on Fire (Agnes and Jared)
Chapter 869

Even though Alyssa was young back then, she was incredibly prideful.

She would barely nibble at her meal, but she would never admit to being too broke to eat out.

Julia said with a laugh, "The only thing you seem to like in the cafeteria is this stir-fried beef. Of course, I'd get you extra. It's not like they serve it every day. Whatever you don't eat, I'll have it." Alyssa felt a sweet warmth inside.

True to form, whenever stir-fried beef was on the menu, Julia would slide her own portion onto Alyssa's plate.

And then, the broccoli and carrots-Alyssa's least favorite-would end up on Julia's plate.

Alyssa contentedly relished this special favoritism, never giving it a second thought at the time.

That afternoon, they had a performance exam. Disaster struck when Alyssa twisted her ankle during the exam. She and Julia were in the same group. Julia could have continued without her, but she didn't. She stopped and carried Alyssa to the nurse's office instead.

In the nurse's office, Alyssa began to sob uncontrollably.

"Why didn't you keep going? Do you realize how important this audition was for you?" Alyssa cried. "Lester is such a big-time director, and it was the first time he was scouting at our school. Do you have any idea what an opportunity you've missed? With your looks, you were a shoo-in!"

Alyssa was consumed with guilt, feeling like she had held Julia back.

Julia was the belle of the school, and Lester was a renowned director with international accolades. The audition for new talent for his upcoming movie "Timeless Blossoms" was an incredible opportunity for any student.

And at that time, almost everyone believed Julia would be chosen. She embodied the character in "Timeless Blossoms" so perfectly that seemed tailor-made for her.

Alyssa knew Julia came from a modest background. Having a career in show biz required much more effort than others could understand.

However, Julia remained calm as she massaged Alyssa's ankle, saying, "It's okay, there will be other chances. If we had delayed treating your foot, you might have suffered long-term damage. I'd never forgive myself for that."

In truth, Julia was worried Alyssa would insist on performing, which was why she had stopped the performance.

Alyssa's injury was quite severe, with a strained ligament. The doctor said it was a good thing they had gotten there quickly; otherwise, she might never dance again.

Eventually, Julia missed her chance to be cast in the lead role, leaving Alyssa feeling deeply remorseful.

Back then, Alyssa constantly told Julia she owed her for life and would treat her like a sister forever.

Outside, people gossiped that Julia was scheming, cozying up to the heiress of the Tim Group, as if she'd have to worry about not getting a film deal in the future.

Upon hearing such discussions, Alyssa found herself embroiled in fiery disputes while defending her friend.

"Do you believe what they're saying?" Julia asked.

Alyssa didn't believe a word. No one understood Julia better than she did. Julia was the kindest soul in the world, the kind of person who made others feel humbled by her presence. She had a soul as pure as a saint's. That was why Alyssa had such a hard time accepting that someone like Julia would date a ruffian like Michael.

Alyssa didn't really like Michael at first.

The first time he showed up, he got into a fight, though it was to defend Julia. But Alyssa still couldn't stand him.