"What's your problem?" Simon demanded angrily. "Move aside. I'll take Fran to her room myself," Andrew replied coldly. Simon barely contained his rage as he insisted, "Just hand her over. As her senior apprentice, I'm the most qualified to look after her!" "Actually, I was going to let you take her," Andrew said mockingly. "But now I don't trust you, so I'd better do it myself." Simon's constant jealousy and hostility had worn Andrew's patience thin. Though fuming, Simon had no choice but to step aside and let Andrew carry Francesca to her room. After making sure she was settled safely, Andrew stepped out. "Now you can get lost!" Simon spat. Andrew gave him a cold look and replied, "Stop deluding yourself, Simon. Fran has no feelings for you." He strode away, leaving Simon red-faced with anger. The front door slammed behind Andrew as he reached the street to call a cab back to the Moonlit Sanctuary. However, Simon's predatory glances toward Francesca kept nagging at
"It doesn't matter when I came back," Andrew said with a cold smile. "However, you seem pretty scared of Dr. Aicker finding out. I wonder how he'd feel about his star student doing something so disgraceful?" Terror flashed across Simon's face. Cedric knew about his feelings for Francesca but had never approved of them, which frustrated Simon deeply. If Cedric found out about tonight's attempted assault, Simon knew he would be expelled from in disgrace. As this realization hit him, a murderous glint appeared in his eyes. He snarled, "Andrew, since you've seen everything, I'll have to silence you permanently." At this point, he knew murder was his only way to keep this from reaching Cedric. "I wouldn't try it," Andrew warned calmly. "You'll be the one getting hurt." Simon sneered. "You're really full of yourself. Let me show you what it means to be Dr. Aicker's senior apprentice!" Just as the tension peaked, Francesca stirred in her sleep, the commotion waking her up. She ru
It immediately dawned on Andrew that Cedric must have made the detox pill. Such medication was not particularly rare, as anyone with decent knowledge of traditional medicine could create it. "So why did you pretend to still be drunk when you were actually sober?" Andrew asked, giving Francesca a curious look. Her face turned an even deeper shade of red as she kept her head down, staying silent. After a long moment, she finally admitted with embarrassment, "I wanted you to… take me home." Worried that Andrew might misunderstand, she quickly explained, "It's not what you might think. I just felt that it wouldn't be safe for a woman to go home alone after drinking. Since you were already taking Lauren home, I thought I could just tag along!" Andrew chuckled and said, "I wasn't thinking anything else. Since you both had been drinking, I would've made sure to get you both home safely anyway." "Well, you know what happened after that," Francesca continued. "As soon as you left afte
At the Weller residence, Harvey sat in the main seat with a smug expression. This was his first time presiding over a family meeting since becoming the head of the family. All the top executives of the Weller family had shown up, as no one dared to disrespect his new position. Next to Harvey sat Serena, with her seductive smile and alluring presence. Their eyes met occasionally, sparking an undeniable chemistry in the air. Some observant executives noticed these exchanges but dismissed their suspicions. After all, one was the new family head, and the other was Kane's widow. Moreover, such an age gap and relationship dynamic surely meant nothing inappropriate could happen between them. "Everyone, please begin your reports," Harvey said with a smile. He wanted to get a clear picture of the Weller family's current strength to plan his next strategic moves. The first one voiced, "Mr. Weller, Jayrodale Bank is aggressively demanding loan repayments. If we don't pay soon, they'll sei
Serena barked, "I'm foolish? What about you? Your father managed to keep the Weller family stable even while sick. Meanwhile, you're young, yet your arrogance has no limit. You're worthless compared to Kane." In a fit of rage, Harvey slapped her hard across the face, causing her to stumble backward. Clutching her reddened cheek, Serena stared at him in disbelief. She shouted, "You actually hit me? It's only been a few days since you've risen to this position, and you're already getting violent with me?" Harvey's face twisted with malice as he shouted, "So you acknowledge I'm the family head now? Who gave you the nerve to speak to me like that? Remember this—this is the first and last warning. If there's a next time, you'll no longer sit here next to me." "Harvey, you ungrateful snake," Serena spat, her chest heaving with anger. "When I helped you, you called me 'sweetheart' every day and promised me the world. Now that you've gotten what you wanted—both my body and the famil
"But last time at the Weller residence, Andrew managed to walk away unharmed from the family elders," Irene persisted hopefully. Christina shook her head and said, "Mom, Andrew might have some skills now, but the situation isn't as simple as what you saw. After returning from the Weller residence, I spoke with both Bruce and Jackie. They confirmed that Andrew only succeeded because of them. If they hadn't already worn down the Weller family elders' strength beforehand, Andrew would have been walking to his death." "Oh, so that's how it was!" Irene exclaimed with sudden understanding. "I was wondering why those two would be so kind as to help us—they were just letting Andrew take the credit!" "That's why I never considered asking Andrew for help," Christina explained. "Now that Harvey has his way, Andrew can barely protect himself, let alone help others." Irene spat in disgust, "And here I thought that loser was some hidden strength—turns out he's just as useless as ever. I must
Christina gritted her teeth and said, "We can't match the Weller family in a fight. Our only option is to stall Harvey until the family representative arrives." With a loud bang, her office door was kicked open. Harvey strode in with a smirk on his face, followed by over a dozen Weller family enforcers. "Christie, my dear fiancee, I can't wait for us to get married!" Harvey's voice was menacing despite his gentle expression. Christina took a deep breath and met Harvey's gaze directly. "Harvey, whatever was between us is long over. If you're a real man, stop with these desperate tactics—just tell me what you want." Harvey sneered. "Over? How convenient for you to say that. After everything I've invested in you, do you think you can just end it? Where does that leave my reputation?" "I never asked for anything from you or your family," Christina replied, struggling to contain her anger. "What exactly did you invest in me?" Harvey declared shamelessly, "I don't care about any
Harvey smirked playfully and said, "It sure is a rare sight to see the Ice Queen of Stevens Corporation so enraged. You want me to leave you alone? Simple—just transfer 150 million dollars from Stevens Corporation to support the Weller family." "150 million? That's outrageous! We don't have that kind of money!" Christina immediately refused. Such an amount would effectively kill Stevens Corporation—the Weller family was indeed ruthless. Harvey scoffed. "Don't be so quick to refuse, because I'm not done with my conditions. Not only must Stevens Corporation transfer the 150 million to us, but you must also marry into the Weller family and become my woman." "Harvey, you're delusional!" Christina shouted, burning with anger and humiliation. "That's right, you can keep dreaming!" Irene chimed in. "Christie is innocent and beautiful as an angel. Have you looked in the mirror? You're not worthy of her!" Harvey slapped Irene hard across the face, sending her rolling across the floo
Andrew waved a hand dismissively. "I don't have time to explain everything to you, and even if I did, you wouldn't understand it anyway. You just need to know this—if you want to save your father, then do exactly what I tell you to." Logan looked uncertain and shot a quick glance at Chantelle as if to ask, "Who is this guy you brought along, and what's with the ego?" Chantelle's face darkened. "Mr. Keller, this man is Andrew Lloyd—he came at Mr. McCormick's recommendation. But honestly, you don't have to take him seriously. Just carry on with your own plans—ignore him." However, Logan shook his head and turned toward Andrew. "Dr. Lloyd, go ahead. Tell me what you need. As long as it'll help my father, I'll make it happen." His respectful tone stunned Chantelle. She wondered if Logan was out of his mind for believing Andrew just like that. Andrew smiled. "My request is actually pretty simple. If I'm going to treat your father, I expect to be compensated. So, I want access to al
Chantelle could not lash out, so she gritted her teeth and quickly followed behind. Inwardly, she made a mental note to report this arrogant clown to Derek later. To her, Andrew was reckless, so full of hot air, and completely unworthy of trust—nothing but a showboating jester. … Inside the main hall of the Keller residence, the place was packed with people coming and going. A group of specialists and renowned doctors stood gathered, their brows furrowed as they exchanged anxious whispers. One commented, "Mr. Keller Senior's condition is strange—truly bizarre!" "Exactly. His entire face is paralyzed. Even his tongue won't move. He can't swallow even a spoonful of medicine!" Another chimed in, "And the worst part? No one can get within three feet of him. The second anyone tries, they get attacked—some left with cracked skulls, others… well, some didn't make it." "Jeez! That serious? Who would dare try to treat him now? No matter how much the Keller family is offering, it's no
Chantelle was behind the wheel while Andrew rode along in the passenger seat as they headed out to treat Derek's old friend, George Keller. The atmosphere inside the car was tense, with Chantelle's resting expression as frosty and detached as ever, her face practically carved from ice. Andrew was not the kind of guy to throw warmth at a wall of cold, so he simply stayed quiet, staring out the window at the passing streets. After holding back for a while, Chantelle finally could not resist and let out a mocking laugh. "Mr. Lloyd, what a clever move—create your own mess, then try to get Mr. McCormick to step in and clean it up for you. Don't you think you're playing with fire?" Andrew smiled. "Playing with fire? Nah, I don't see it that way. At this point, I'm pretty much one of Mr. McCormick's trusted men. So if the little guy's getting targeted, doesn't it make perfect sense for the boss to step in and fix it?" Chantelle was momentarily stunned before letting out a scoff. "An
Derek said coldly, "These elite families and old-money clans have been feasting off Blumedale like it's their private banquet. They think they can gorge themselves for life, rule without question, and remain unchallenged. "But as long as I'm the one calling the shots in this province, they don't get to do as they please!" Chantelle was startled. She had not expected Andrew to actually ignite Derek's fury. She silently cursed, 'This idiot is already useless on his own, and now even worse, he's using Mr. McCormick as his shield? It's despicable!' Derek turned to Andrew. "Mr. Lloyd, don't worry. Those arrogant bastards—I'll handle them and make sure you get justice. But the reason I brought you here today is something more urgent. There's a matter I need your help with." Andrew lifted a hand and said, "Mr. McCormick, say the word. If I can help, I will." Derek nodded. "Here's the situation—an old friend of mine suddenly found himself fighting for his life. We've brought in nearly
Andrew said indifferently, "I was just being honest. I don't see how that counts as a joke. And besides, didn't you dress up to please Mr. McCormick's eyes?" Chantelle, who usually stayed cool as ice, immediately felt her temper flare. "You…" Andrew could not be bothered to deal with her. Without waiting for any announcement, he pushed open Derek's office door and swaggered in. "Uncouth brute…" Chantelle gritted her teeth and followed behind him with a scowl. Derek's office, just like his reputation, was simple and understated. Aside from two traditional landscape paintings and a few framed family photos, Andrew did not see a single decorative item inside. "Mr. Lloyd, you're here—please, have a seat!" Derek stood up with a warm smile the moment Andrew walked in. Andrew chuckled. "Mr. McCormick, you're the top official in Gabo Creek Province. If you're personally welcoming me, I might start getting a big head. You go ahead and sit—I'll manage just fine." Derek took his sea
The red Ferrari sped down from the mountaintop of The Sovereign Residences, tires slicing through the breeze with precision. Aspen sat in the passenger seat, hesitating for a while before finally speaking. "That Xavier… turns out he's Seth's older brother, and even worse—he's a full-blown colonel. Andrew, a colonel in the military is basically a god to most people. You'd better… watch your back." Andrew hit the brakes and stopped right in front of the gated entrance of The Sovereign Residences. He turned with a grin. "Aspen, are you worried about my safety?" Aspen scoffed, gritting her teeth a little. "Worried is a stretch. I'm just giving you a heads-up. And don't act like it's nothing. We haven't even cleaned up the mess with Seth and Mr. Parks." She added, "And now you've provoked the Haywoods' golden boy too? All I can say is—way to add fuel to the fire." Andrew said flatly, "One loser or 100 losers, there's no real difference." At that moment, the two martial arts guard
Ethan refused to let it go. He pointed at Andrew, cursing under his breath. "Kid, I'm not gonna stoop to your level. But if I actually wanted to deal with you, you wouldn't even live to see the sunrise tomorrow. You better believe that." Xavier stepped forward and looked down at Andrew with a calm, superior gaze. "I can see you've got some skill. Otherwise, you wouldn't have been able to stand up to my younger brother, Seth. "But here's a word of advice—you've made too many enemies. And your attitude? It's practically begging for trouble. Sooner or later, it'll catch up to you." Andrew raised a brow. "So that scumbag Seth is your little brother, huh? That means you're from the Haywoods." Although Xavier tried maintaining a cool, aloof front, a hint of arrogance still slipped through his mask. "I'm the eldest son of the Haywoods. Go ask anyone on the streets of Blumedale—see if there's a soul who doesn't know the name Xavier Haywood." Andrew shook his head. "Sorry, but I'm not
Andrew replied coolly, "Alright, fine. I did do it on purpose. But the only reason I chose the room next to yours was so it'd be easier for you to wake me up in the mornings. Nothing more—so don't go overthinking it." Aspen crossed her arms and let out a cold laugh. "You think I'm buying that?" Andrew shrugged. "Whether you believe it or not doesn't matter. Even if I asked you to warm my bed at night, would you dare say no?" "You…" Aspen was instantly at a loss for words. Her cheeks turned pink as she silently fumed. She was sure that the bastard Andrew was still lusting after her body. Andrew seemed to read her mind and scoffed, "You dumb woman. Don't flatter yourself. Do you really think the only reason I went through the trouble of snatching Serenity Villa from Zachary and picked the room next to yours was just to sleep with you?" As Aspen let out a sarcastic chuckle, Andrew headed downstairs, adding, "I did it because you're weak. If you got yourself killed because of on
Aspen ran through every room and checked out the front and back of the house. By the end of it, her legs were sore. Even so, instead of feeling tired, her delicate face was lit up with excitement and wonder. "Hey, this place is hands-down the best, fanciest, and most expensive location I've ever seen in my life!" she said, rubbing her aching calves while smiling up at Andrew. Andrew replied casually, "Judging by that smile you can't wipe off your face, I'm guessing you're falling in love with it?" Aspen pouted. "Saying I'm not would just be lying to myself. Serenity Villa is clearly the kind of estate that money alone can't buy. A place like this… I'd say only the top families in Blumedale are worthy of it." Andrew let out a dismissive snort. "Don't put those so-called Blumedale elites on a pedestal. Serenity Villa isn't some heavenly paradise. Just remember—the view from the top is always the most breathtaking. And Blumedale in Gabo Creek Province? That place barely makes it t