Chapter 148
Chapter 148:
Ashton’s music theory class was lively and engaging, captivating even those students who had initially joined just for fun, sparking a newfound interest in music.
The class passed smoothly, and as soon as it ended, before Ashton could tidy up the teaching aids, he stopped Wade and asked him to stay for a private conversation.
Wade felt a sense of dread, fearing that something bad was about to happen. He subconsciously thought Ashton was going to confront him and began to think about how to apologize.
However, Ashton’s first sentence took him by surprise.
With a smile, Ashton said, “Wade, tell me the truth. Do you have a crush on Jenna? Is that why you couldn’t help but show off your guitar skills when you saw her speaking up for me p>
Wade was stunned. He stammered for a while before saying, “Mr. Baldwin, how did you know p>
Ashton continued to smile. “You kept staring at her. I’m not blind; of course, I could sense it. In fact, I wanted to talk to you to clear up any misunderstandings. Jenna only admires me as her teacher. If you really like her, you should muster the courage to pursue her boldly, just like how you challenged me earlier. I think you’re quite talented and good-looking. If you dare to act, you’ll definitely achieve something p>
Wade hadn’t expected Ashton to encourage him.
Reflecting on his rude behavior earlier, Wade felt both ashamed and moved. He was completely won over by Ashton.
He nodded vigorously and said seriously, “Don’t worry, Mr. Baldwin. I won’t let you down p>
While they were talking, news about Ashton’s class began spreading online, shared by the students.
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Soon, the video went viral, and Ashton’s moral integrity and musical prowess received widespread praise. Many people commented that they, too, wanted to attend his classes. Some individuals who weren’t even part of the school inquired about how to sneak in and listen to him.
Meanwhile, Phillip seethed with anger upon seeing the positive news about Ashton.
The relationship between Phillip and the James family was already strained, and it now seemed that the family’s affections were tilting toward Ashton. This news would only make them favor Ashton even more.
Phillip’s envy and sense of impending crisis deepened, knowing that if he failed to act, his meticulously laid plans for the future would crumble to dust.
Determined, he reached out to Fraser, ready to subordinate himself if it meant undermining Ashton and ensuring he couldn’t gain a foothold in Inewood.
The sting of the recent bidding failure had left Fraser in a foul mood, reprimanded by his own family; he was disinclined to engage with Phillip.
However, the news Phillip shared with him successfully aroused his interest.
Over the phone, Phillip’s voice crackled with excitement. “Mr. Horton, I’ve had my sister dig a little, and it turns out Ashton has no ties to the Skyline Group. Our misfortune last time was just that—bad luck! But we can pin it on Ashton, make him the scapegoat. Even if he’s innocent, it’s a chance for us to vent our frustrations! I’ll take the initiative to handle things again this time. There’s no need for you to make a public appearance p>
Fraser, nursing his bruised ego, found the idea increasingly appealing.
Why not redirect his anger toward Ashton? Besides, Phillip took the initiative to handle Ashton, confident there was no risk to him. He saw no reason to refuse.
Fraser agreed, saying, “Alright, I’ll trust you once more. Don’t let me down p>
Fraser continued, “I’ve heard Inewood University is hosting an evening party soon. Ashton, the music teacher there, will likely attend. You should take this opportunity to embarrass him publicly. If you succeed, Ashton’s reputation will be tarnished, and we can further attack him while he’s vulnerable p>
Phillip, contemplating how to deal with Ashton, brightened at Fraser’s suggestion.
With a fierce determination, he declared, “Don’t worry. I’ll make sure to ruin Ashton’s reputation no matter what p>
After ending the call with Fraser, Phillip began strategizing on how to implement the plan.
He recalled Tristan, a student at Inewood University, and decided it would be prudent to reach out to him.
When Tristan answered, the response was less enthusiastic than usual. Due to the recent change in his family’s attitude toward Phillip, Tristan was clearly displeased with Phillip, too.
Tristan spoke with a hint of annoyance. “Phillip, could you please stop contacting me? You’ve already caused enough trouble for my family. If my parents find out that we’re still in touch, I’m afraid I might lose my allowance p>
Hearing Tristan’s disgusted tone, Phillip felt a surge of anger. It was clear that Tristan, who had once been close to him, now harbored a cold disdain.
Despite this, Phillip knew he had to endure this treatment for the sake of his plan.
Phillip forced a smile and responded, “Tristan, I understand how you feel, but you shouldn’t think of it that way. I have something beneficial to discuss with you this time. I know you’re in need of money right now, and if you help me with this, I’ll make sure to reward you with something that will definitely meet your expectations p>