Inside the SUV, Dylan personally drove Andrew toward West End. "Dylan, this isn't the way to South City, is it?" Andrew asked, raising an eyebrow. Dylan explained with a wry smile, "Mr. Lloyd, we're heading to West End. Tonight is a crucial three-way meeting between us South City, Northern District's Atlas, and the last major underground power in Jayrodale—West End's Natasha Vostokoff. "I wouldn't have dared ask for your company if it wasn't important." Andrew analyzed and commented, "So the conflict between South City and Northern District has reached a critical point. That's why West End couldn't stay neutral anymore and had to step in for negotiations, right?" "You've hit the nail on the head, Mr. Lloyd," Dylan said admiringly. "Last time, you helped us take down Griffin, giving South City a chance to counter-attack. "Now, neither Norther District nor South City can gain the upper hand. With Madam Vostokoff getting involved, I'm worried about potential tricks, which is
Dylan forced an awkward laugh and ducked his head sheepishly. "I was just kidding, Mr. Lloyd. Please don't be angry." He had no doubt about Andrew's influence. With one word, this man could actually have him performing stand-up comedy for the rest of his life. … The SUV pulled up in front of a towering building in Jayrodale's West End district. "Mr. Lloyd, this is Madam Vostokoff's headquarters—the main base of West End's underground operations," Dylan explained while opening the door for Andrew. "Impressive…" Andrew nodded after taking in the sight. At that moment, an alluring woman wearing a veil and dark smoky eye makeup approached them, surrounded by several imposing bodyguards. "Mr. Garner, you've finally arrived. Please come in. Mr. Giordano and Mr. Moore are getting impatient," she said with a smile, her eyes deliberately lingering on Andrew. "Mr. Lloyd, this is Natasha Vostokoff, the leader of Jayrodale's West End," Dylan introduced. Before he could introduce
Atlas and Finley were already seated in the massive conference room. When Natasha entered with her signature sultry walk, Finley's eyes lit up with desire, but Atlas quickly shot him a warning glance. Atlas was well aware of Natasha's reputation in Jayrodale's underground circles, and he worried Finley's wandering eye might compromise their position. "Thank you for your patience, Mr. Giordano and Mr. Moore," Natasha said with a smile. "Mr. Garner and South City's representative have arrived, so we can begin." "What capable fighter could South City possibly have besides Dylan?" Finley scoffed. "They're all trash in my eyes." "Pretty big talk from you, Mr. Moore. Better be careful not to bite your tongue," Dylan's voice sounded from the doorway as he and Andrew entered the room. Initially, both Finley and Atlas wore looks of contempt, feeling confident in their position against Dylan. However, when they saw Andrew beside him, their expressions quickly changed. "So this is who
"Finley and Atlas can't be trusted," Dylan warned. "If you believe their lies, once they destroy South City, West End won't be spared either." "Oh? What makes you say that?" Natasha asked with a smile. "Are you suggesting Northern District plans to take over West End as well?" Before Dylan could respond, Atlas cut in, "Dylan's just a brute—don't take his words seriously. Northern District and West End have always maintained peaceful relations, and even if we wanted your territory, we wouldn't have the strength after dealing with South City. That would be suicide!" "Mr. Giordano is right," Finley added smoothly. "In fact, West End stands to gain the most from this. The only reason we're pursuing this vendetta against South City is because Dylan treacherously killed Mr. Giordano's lieutenant. Such a betrayal demands justice." Their coordinated pitch seemed to sway Natasha, while her lieutenants behind her nodded approvingly. "Madam, we should stay neutral and let them fight it
"How dare you insult Madam Vostokoff! Are you asking for death?" West End's enforcers erupted in anger. "In all these years, no one has ever dared to disrespect our leader on our turf!" Over the years, many have experienced Natasha's ruthless cunning firsthand. For this young upstart to openly mock her intelligence right to her face—he must have been tired of living. Atlas and Finley could barely contain their joy at this turn of events. "Dylan, is this your way of making South City perish faster?" Finley taunted, fanning himself with a smirk. He added, "Andrew, I know you're trying to get Madam Vostokoff's attention, but this thorny rose is far beyond your reach. Now, you'll probably leave here in pieces!" "Mr. Garner, he's your man," Natasha snapped. "For old times' sake, I'll give you one chance to explain what he means. Otherwise, none of you will leave West End's headquarters alive." "Madam Vostokoff, Mr. Lloyd can be quite direct, but let me explain—" Dylan began
He leaned forward, his voice biting as he said, "Answer me this: Atlas promised you a 50-50 split of the territory once he takes down South City. Did you seriously believe that just because he said it?" Natasha's glare intensified, but before she could respond, Andrew continued. "Second, Jayrodale has three major underground organizations, with Atlas and Northern District being the strongest. Surely, you know this much. And now, with Finley and the Hidden Dragons backing him, Atlas is more powerful than ever. After he crushes South City, do you really think he won't turn around and wipe out West End next?" Natasha scoffed, though there was hesitation in her voice. "Do you seriously think I don't understand the dynamics of Jayrodale better than you? After taking South City, Atlas will be weakened. How could he possibly come after me?" Andrew shook his head, smirking. "Calling you stupid is honestly being too kind. As I said, Atlas has the Hidden Dragons and the ambitious Finley by
Natasha's expression darkened as a chill ran down her spine. Though Andrew's words were harsh, they struck with undeniable truth—she had almost fallen into Atlas and Finley's trap. "I understand why you were so eager to fall for their scheme," Andrew continued calmly. "You wanted South City eliminated so you could grab a piece of the pie. Your ambition isn't small, Madam Vostokoff—West End wants to dominate too." "Unfortunately, greed often exposes one's weaknesses," Andrew added with mock concern. "As a woman in this business, you should be more careful playing games with cunning men like Atlas." His patronizing tone made Natasha grind her teeth. While it was her first time being lectured by such a young man, she could not deny the truth in his words. She did have ambitions and had been swayed by Atlas's promises. "Mr. Giordano, Mr. Moore, please leave. You're no longer welcome in West End," Natasha ordered through clenched teeth. "Madam Vostokoff, you can't actually belie
In the West End district, Andrew and Dylan received a grand welcome from Natasha. "Mr. Lloyd, I never expected you to make such bold moves. You even managed to shock someone like me," Dylan admitted, still in awe of Andrew's earlier actions and words. Dylan could not shake off the memory of how Andrew had brazenly called Natasha an airhead and lectured her to read more books as if she were just one of his men. He found it incredible that Andrew dared to act this way on someone else's turf, surrounded by their elite fighters. What bewildered Dylan even more was that Natasha did not get angry after being scolded. Instead, she switched sides, driving Atlas and Finley away while graciously hosting him and Andrew. As one of Jayrodale's crime lords, Dylan had never felt this triumphant. "I'm not as remarkable as you suggest," Andrew said calmly. "She simply came to her senses and realized she couldn't let Northern District become too powerful, and once I pointed that out, Atlas and
The moment Quinton said that, several people in the room erupted in outrage. Dominic, the head of the Goth family, slammed his hand on the table and declared, "Mr. Wright, you're an honored guest from Blumedale, bringing billions to help revitalize Jayrodale! "We're beyond grateful you'd even consider investing here, and yet someone actually had the nerve to offend you? Mr. Wright, if you just say the word, the Goth family will be the first to deal with whoever that bastard is!" Harvey was not about to fall behind and quickly chimed in, "Mr. Wright, you're our meal ticket—our livelihood depends on you. Who the hell was blind enough to cross you? The Weller family would walk through fire for you, no hesitation!" Everyone else immediately jumped in, each one eager to win Quinton's favor. "Mr. Wright, just tell us—who was it? Which family or which group pissed you off? Whoever it was, we'll drag them out and make them get on their knees in front of you and beg for forgiveness!"
Rodney let out a cold snort and said nothing more. Plenty of people around could not help but be shocked—Quinton was really something else. After all, Rodney was usually wild and arrogant, never caring about anyone, but Quinton shut him right down with just a few words. Now, that was what you called true dominance. Christina leaned toward Quinton and whispered gratefully, "Thank you, Mr. Wright, for stepping in." Quinton flashed a charming smile and replied, "It's nothing. Since you've already decided to join me for the development project in Blumedale, you'll be under my care from now on. Naturally, I have to keep you well protected." His words were laced with an obvious flirtation, like a possessive man doting on his favorite girl. Christina did not say anything, but Quinton was secretly feeling very pleased with himself. He believed a true master never showed all his cards and had no doubt he would win Christina over eventually. There was no rush—when the time came,
The massive conference room was buzzing with activity. Quinton sat back with one leg crossed over the other, his polished branded loafers casually propped up on the large round table. He looked completely at ease, though it was clear he was putting on a show. People continued arriving for his so-called roundtable meeting, including some of the most influential figures in Jayrodale. Among them were Natasha, Dylan, and Harvey—the head of the Weller family—as well as representatives from Madblade Martial Academy and the Goth family. Shawn, ever the suckup, leaned forward with a flattering grin. "Mr. Wright, your influence is truly unmatched. Look around—everyone who holds real power in Jayrodale, from the high society elites to the underground forces, has shown up just for you!" Quinton did not respond, but the smirk on his lips grew even more noticeable. Sitting beside him, apart from Shawn, was another notable figure—Christina. She had not spoken a word, but internally, she wa
"I've always handed over my paycheck. I'm used to it," Nyla murmured. Andrew gave Francesca a small smile. "Fran, let's drop it for now. This is between Nyla and her stepmother—we shouldn't interfere too much." Camilla smirked. "At least Dr. Lloyd knows how to behave. Well then, I'll be heading out." She stood up and, as if it were the most natural thing in the world, ordered, "Nyla, help me to the car." Then, in a warning tone, she added, "I'll be back this time next month, so don't even think about hiding your paycheck. If you don't have the full amount ready, don't bother trying to step foot in the Goth family's house." Nyla quickly nodded. "I understand, Madam. Don't worry—I'll give you everything." Camilla nodded in satisfaction, putting on a fake, affectionate smile. "That's a good girl. At least my efforts in raising you haven't been in vain. You know how busy your father is, and I'm the only one managing the household. Even in my rare moments of rest, I still have t
A flicker of resistance flashed across Nyla's face, but it quickly faded. She obediently handed over her freshly earned paycheck to Camilla, who grinned as she began counting. Once she finished, her eyes lit up with delight. "100 grand? Nyla, does Moonlit Apothecary really pay you this much?" Nyla lowered her voice. "Dr. Lloyd gave it to me. He's a really kind person… he takes good care of me." Camilla turned to Andrew, eyeing him with uncertainty. Before stepping inside, she had spoken poorly of Moonlit Apothecary, though it had only been out of jealousy. In reality, Moonlit Apothecary was one of the most well-known establishments in Jayrodale, with a miracle doctor treating patients. Wealthy and powerful families flocked here in droves. Camilla's expression quickly shifted as she put on a flattering smile. "You must be the owner of Moonlit Apothecary. Nyla works under you, so feel free to use her however you see fit—hard labor, long hours, whatever." She chuckled, her voi
Irene spat, "With Mr. Wright backing our Christie, she's going to be way more powerful than you! She'll crush you under her feet—just wait and see!" With that, the three members of the Stevens family scurried away, tails between their legs. Francesca, still fuming, crossed her arms. "What is wrong with these people? Christina is getting more twisted by the day! That Quinton guy is ambitious as hell. The moment he set foot in Jayrodale, he tried to snatch the Titan Essence Pill and the Vitality Pill by force! "And yet, Christina actually trusts him? Quinton is going to be even worse than Harvey—he'll devour her whole!" Andrew shrugged. "That's her problem, not mine. You can't wake someone up if they're determined to keep pretending they're in a dream." Francesca's eyes flickered with thought. "Andrew, Quinton isn't just some random guy. Maybe you should at least try to warn Christina, considering… you two had that kind of history?" Andrew shook his head. "It's pointless tryi
Andrew let out a cold chuckle. "Come back? You don't mean the Stevens family, do you?" Christina lifted her chin. "That's right. As long as you come back and help me build my career to the top, I'll be with you!" Andrew waved a hand like he was shooing away a fly. "Christina, have you had too much to drink? Go home and sleep it off. Help you reach the top, and in return, you'll be with me? Let me ask you one thing—do I even care?" He scoffed outright. Even now, Christina was still living in a world where everything revolved around her. This woman was beyond hopeless. "Andrew, you might not care, but plenty of people do! Quinton Wright from Blumedale has already extended an invitation to me. He wants Stevens Corporation to expand there, and his Wright family is willing to fully support us!" Christina's tone carried an unmistakable air of superiority. "But I haven't agreed yet. And the reason is—I wanted to give you one last chance. As long as you say yes, not only will I be
Leroy's jealousy burned even hotter as he glared at Andrew. "Andrew, look at you now! Not only are you getting girls left and right, but your business is booming too! Moonlit Apothecary is making you a fortune every month. If you count the profits, you could buy a brand-new G-Wagon monthly, huh?" Andrew smirked. "So what? What does that have to do with you?" Leroy fumed. "Of course, it has something to do with me! Andrew, you and Christie were meant to be together! Our family came here today to ask—when are you marrying her?" Andrew frowned. "Leroy, have you lost your damn mind?" Marriage? He had to give it to the Stevens family—they were shameless beyond belief. Irene forced a smile and said, "Andrew, we came here with sincerity. We truly want to make peace with you! You and Christie can still get back together—most of what happened was just a misunderstanding!" Before Andrew could even respond, Francesca had already stepped in. She stomped up front and glared at the Steve
Leroy's eyes burned with jealousy, and he shamelessly said, "Andrew, I'm not a doctor, but I could work here as a male nurse. You could pay me 100 grand a month too, right?" Irene quickly chimed in, laughing awkwardly. "Andrew, you know I'm getting older, and I've been scammed out of a lot of money over the years. I don't even have enough saved for retirement! How about you hire me to cook for the clinic? I won't ask for much—50 grand a month will do." The sight of the mother and son practically groveling made Francesca sick to her stomach. "Sorry, we're full," Andrew rejected them without hesitation. Leroy refused to give up. "Andrew, your business is booming, and this place is huge. There's no way you're at full capacity! Hire me, and I promise I'll work hard!" Andrew's tone remained indifferent. "We might hire more people in the future, but there's one requirement—no hiring lazy slackers with bad character." Leroy's face instantly turned red with anger. "Andrew, just say