Meanwhile in Scarlet Lounge, West End. Natasha had rented out the entire luxury resort for the event. When Andrew and Dylan arrived, they saw that the entrance was lined with high-end cars. Stunning women in designer dresses and sharp-looking men in tailored suits moved in and out of the venue, all exuding power and wealth. Dylan leaned closer and whispered, "Mr. Lloyd, you might not know this, but Natasha's not as conventional as she seems. "She's been keeping West End in check for years, but behind the scenes, she's got ties with several high-ranking officials and wealthy benefactors in Jayrodale. A lot of the men here might just be her… admirers." Andrew adjusted his crisp suit and replied casually, "It was obvious last night—Natasha knows how to use her charm to her advantage." Dylan smirked. "No doubt about it. Those legs of hers? God knows how many men she's brought to their knees with them, willing to do anything for her." Andrew smiled faintly. "Smart women always
Dylan said, "Atlas would never lower himself to be seen publicly with Yvonne, no matter how much fun she was behind closed doors." Andrew nodded. "Let's head inside and meet with Madam Vostokoff." Dylan was just about to agree when he suddenly stopped and let out a sharp, "Huh? Mr. Lloyd, check that out—another attention-seeking diva just showed up." Andrew followed Dylan's gaze and frowned. "She looks familiar." Dylan smirked. "That's Serena Halbert, the widow of the late Kane. She's got quite a reputation." Andrew's expression turned curious. "You seem to know quite a lot about these women." Dylan scratched his head awkwardly, blushing slightly. "Well, I wouldn't say I know them, but I've heard the gossip." He continued, leaning in conspiratorially. "Take Serena, for instance. She's nearly 20 years younger than Kane, making her about 32 now. She was at her prime, but Kane was already a frail, sickly old man. There's no way he could keep up with her." Lowering his voic
Andrew frowned as he glanced at the arrogant woman before him. Though attractive, her superiority complex was something he could not stand. "I suppose this is Aspen Stevens from the Bridgefields' Stevens family?" Dylan asked in surprise. Aspen smiled condescendingly and replied, "Mr. Garner, I'm surprised you know who I am. I didn't realize my reputation had spread so far into Jayrodale." "You're indeed well-known for both your business acumen and martial arts skills," Dylan said coldly. "However, this isn't Bridgefields—it's Jayrodale, and such a high-profile attitude might not serve you well here." Aspen responded with unwavering confidence, "Mr. Garner, you should worry about yourself first. I hear South City is about to fall into Mr. Giordano's hands from the Northern District." She paused before adding, "As it happens, I have quite a good relationship with Mr. Giordano. If you ask nicely, I might put in a good word for South City." Dylan scoffed. "Who do you think you
Aspen said, "I've just arrived in Jayrodale, but I've already investigated everything thoroughly. You helped Stevens Corporation, and then Mr. Stevens Senior spoke up for you at the family dinner, trying to get you and Christie back together. Tell me, is this true or false?" "The event happened, but I had no prior knowledge of Mr. Stevens Senior's intentions," Andrew replied coldly. "Excuses!" Aspen laughed mockingly. "The truth is clear—you used your favor to manipulate Mr. Stevens Senior into speaking up for you, all to get back with Christie. Your help to the family wasn't genuine; you had ulterior motives. Christie would be blind to choose someone like you." Andrew shook his head and clapped sarcastically. "Aspen, though this is our first meeting, I must say I'm truly impressed with you." "What? Impressed that I exposed your true colors?" Aspen sneered. Andrew smiled. "Yes, genuinely impressed! I never thought I'd meet someone as idiotic as you. It's truly rare—I can't he
The gala officially began at six in the evening. Since Andrew and Dylan were not there to dance, they found a spot to sit down and sample the gourmet offerings while keeping an eye on Finley and Yvonne's movements. The West End gala attracted Jayrodale's elite society, and the dining area showcased nothing but premium delicacies. "There are some real beauties here, like that Serena," Dylan said admiringly. "I wouldn't mind getting to know such a sultry woman." Andrew gave him an odd look and said, "You're sick—you've got the Casanova Syndrome." "Mr. Lloyd, is this Casanova Syndrome serious?" Dylan asked anxiously, knowing that Andrew was a brilliant physician whose diagnoses were never to be taken lightly. Andrew peeled a lobster tail, popped it in his mouth, and shook his head. "This condition is usually incurable." "Incurable?" Dylan's face turned pale. "Mr. Lloyd, am I going to die?" "You won't die," Andrew laughed, making Dylan sigh with relief. "Mr. Lloyd, I've nev
It was clear that Natasha did not want Finley touching her, but he basked in the attention, beaming as he said, "Madam, you've heard everyone's requests. Since they all want to see us dance, how can you refuse?" Natasha frowned slightly. Finley was annoying as a persistent pest, but she worried that refusing him outright in front of everyone might cause a scene. Just then, a female voice cut through the tension. "If Madam Vostokoff doesn't want to dance with Mr. Moore, shouldn't a true gentleman step back rather than put her in an awkward position?" "Who do you think you are to meddle in my affairs?" Finley turned with displeasure. Aspen smiled, looking sharp in her tailored suit. "Mr. Moore, you seem quite temperamental. I'm Aspen from the Bridgefields' Stevens family." Finley nodded thoughtfully and said, "Ah, Ms. Stevens. Don't tell me you're also vying to be Madam Vostokoff's dance partner?" "And why not?" Aspen lifted her chin proudly. "Who says Madam Vostokoff's partn
"Is there a problem?" Natasha asked with a smile. "Madam, please hear me out," Aspen said seriously. "Andrew isn't worthy of being your dance partner. In fact, he's not even worthy of being your servant." Natasha shook her head and replied, "Ms. Stevens, this is my business. Now, if you'll excuse me, we can chat more after the gala." After that, she walked straight toward Andrew, leaving Aspen stunned. The other guests had also noticed Natasha's movement, and whispers began to circulate through the crowd. "What's so special about this guy that Madam Vostokoff would ask him to dance?" someone muttered. "She even turned down Finley. Could she actually be interested in him?" another wondered aloud. "That's no ordinary guy—that's Andrew Lloyd, and rumor has it that he doesn't even bow down to Finley or Atlas!" someone explained. The crowd buzzed with gossip, especially the men who watched jealousy as Natasha smiled at Andrew like a lovesick teenager. Finley squeezed Yvo
Christina could not understand how Andrew had such an effect on these exceptional women. First Lauren, then Francesca, and now someone even more remarkable—Natasha, the powerful widow who ruled West End. Returning to the lounge, she said to Aspen, "Aspen, let's just head home." Aspen shook her head. "Not yet, Christie. You need to learn to handle these situations, even if you don't like them." "I don't want to breathe the same air as Andrew," Christina replied coldly. "What's wrong? Does it bother you that this worthless gold-digger is suddenly so successful?" Aspen asked with a knowing smile. Christina responded stiffly, "If he can climb the social ladder through women, that's his talent. It doesn't bother me." Aspen said seriously. "No, Christie, you're wrong. He's not moving up his status—he simply doesn't know his place. Once powerful women like Madam Vostokoff get bored with this nobody, they'll kick him to the curb. I've seen it happen countless times." … Out o
Lauren giggled. "You're such a stereotypical guy, Dr. Lloyd." Shopping with a beautiful woman was always exhausting, and it proved no different for Andrew. Lauren's shopping spree quickly loaded Andrew's arms with bags until he could barely carry them all. "I think that's enough. I can barely hold any more," Andrew said, overwhelmed. Lauren tilted her head thoughtfully before saying with disappointment, "Fine… I wanted to look at suits and belts for you too, but I guess that'll have to wait for next time!" Andrew brightened up and asked hopefully, "Can we head back now?" Waggling her delicate fingers, the young heiress laughed playfully. "No way! Shopping is exhausting, and I haven't eaten yet. Come on, this restaurant is amazing. It's my treat!" Andrew could only smile wryly as he followed her into the restaurant laden with shopping bags. Just as they sat down, Donald called him. Andrew found it strange to get a call from Donald at this hour. He answered irritably, "Mr.
After leaving Michael's office, Andrew said, "Ms. Rhodes, Mr. Chapman, don't give up—the game isn't over yet." Lauren turned to Marcus. "Mr. Chapman, you can work in another department temporarily. I'll make sure you get your position back." Marcus waved his hand tiredly and replied, "No need, Mr. Lloyd and Ms. Rhodes—you've both helped me enough. At my age, perhaps it's time to wake up and let go of these ambitious pursuits. Maybe living a simple life as an ordinary person is the right choice for me." Lauren quickly protested, "Mr. Chapman, you don't have to do this!" Marcus shook his head and smiled at them both. "Ms. Rhodes and Mr. Lloyd, when you have children of your own, maybe you'll understand how I feel right now." Lauren blushed and shot Andrew a shy glare. Just then, a bearded man strode over with a grin, saying, "Ah, Ms. Rhodes, Mr. Lloyd, and Mr. Chapman—all together! I just heard Mr. Chapman talking about wanting to live a simple life. What an excellent idea!"
Michael waved dismissively and said, "That was your personal matter. Of course, I couldn't help!" Lauren spat out a laugh and sneered. "Michael, don't you realize how stupid you sound right now? One of our own employees was being harassed by the Weller family, and you have the nerve to say such nonsense! Are you even fit to be CEO?" Michael's face darkened as he replied, "If I'm not fit to be CEO, you think you are? If you were so qualified, why am I sitting in this chair instead of you?" Lauren took a deep breath and retorted contemptuously, "We both know how you got this position. If the family hadn't interfered, you'd still be nothing but a lackey under me." Michael sneered. "You're right, I'll admit that. But what does it matter? You'll soon be married off from the Rhodes family. Lauren, no matter how capable, beautiful, or how many followers you have, there's still no place for you in the Rhodes family. Your only path is to be a sacrifice!" His venomous words struck Laur
Andrew apologized profusely, "I'm so sorry, truly sorry. Now that I know you dislike any mention of Mr. Aicker, I absolutely won't mention Mr. Aicker again. My clumsy tongue betrayed me by mentioning Mr. Aicker twice more—I deserve death for this transgression. Please forgive me, Mr. Eslinger." Bane's face was not just dark anymore—it had turned ashen. He slammed his hand on the desk and pointed at Andrew, shouting, "I see what you're doing! You're apologizing, but is that really an apology? You mentioned Cedric three more times—it's infuriating!" Andrew shrugged at the enraged Bane and said, "You're right, I am deliberately mentioning him. If you don't want to hear it, you don't have to listen, but I'll say what I want—that's my right." Bane sneered, "I heard from Mr. Rhodes that you were quite the troublemaker, but I didn't expect such insolence even in my presence. You clearly don't understand how terrifying people from the Advanced Medical Institute can be." Andrew did not
Andrew scoffed. "Once Brad faces trial, Harvey's true colors will show. We just need to sit back and watch the show unfold." After leaving Dillon's Bar, the three of them returned to Rhodes Corporation. Marcus was ready to throw himself back into work now that Lucy was safe and sound. However, as soon as he returned to his department, devastating news spread. "Mr. Chapman, effective immediately, you are no longer the head of the Pharmaceutical Division. Mr. MacAfee will be taking over your position," announced Michael's secretary, Cindy. Marcus struggled to contain his anger as he demanded, "I deserve an explanation!" Cindy replied haughtily, "There's nothing to explain. These are direct orders from Mr. Rhodes! If you have any objections, take them up with him." With that, she sauntered away, swaying her hips. Marcus stood frozen, his earlier joy completely vanishing. With a bitter smile, he muttered, "Just as one wave settles, another rises." His face showed the weig
"Why are you running, Mr. Brad? Didn't you hear the police coming to arrest you?" asked the strikingly handsome man from the couple, a slight smile playing on his lips. Brad's eye twitched as he cautiously asked, "Who are you? How do you know who I am? And how do you know the police are here for me?" This time, it was the beautiful woman from the couple who answered. She said with a smirk, "Well, we're the ones who called the police. And Mr. Chapman is working with us to catch you, so of course, we know everything that's going on!" Brad's mind went blank as realization hit him, and he pointed at the couple while backing away. He stammered, "Y-You're Lauren Rhodes, the heiress of the Rhodes family. And y-you're Andrew Lloyd, the one who beat up our family's elder!" The pretend couple was indeed Andrew and Lauren. Lauren was dressed in trendy club wear with striking makeup, looking every bit the queen of the night scene. Meanwhile, Andrew was sporting a tailored suit with slicked
The person patting him on the shoulder was none other than Marcus. Brad asked, "Where's the formula?" "I have it right here, but I need to make sure Lucy is safe first!" Marcus said in a low voice, adjusting his baseball cap. Brad glanced around the dimly lit bar. At the counter where he sat, there was no one except for a couple getting cozy nearby. Meeting here proved the old saying true—the most obvious place was often the most secretive one, as nobody would pay attention to someone sitting at the bar counter. "Marcus, you better wise up and hand over the formula," Brad replied, setting down his glass and sneering. "If you cooperate, I'll order them to spare Lucy. But if you keep stalling like this, I can't guarantee Lucy's safety." Brad saw Marcus's face twist with a mix of anger and defeat. He laughed inwardly, thinking Marcus was no match for playing games with the Weller family. "Fine, here's the formula." Marcus finally handed it over obediently. As soon as Brad to
Just thinking about how Serena had dismissed him with such disdain earlier that day made Brad seethe with frustration. He thought she was ungrateful. After all, he had been nothing but genuine toward her, yet she still dared to fantasize about staying with Harvey. Brad was determined not to let that happen. Serena was going to be his, no matter what. It was not about love or promises; it was about his pride as a man and the thrill of conquest. Losing the fight for the family headship to Harvey had already been humiliating enough, but if he could not win Serena over, Brad figured he might as well crawl into a hole and die. Behind the bar, the bartender glanced at him while mixing a drink. "Mr. Brad, maybe you should ease up on the drinks—you've got business to handle later." "Shut the hell up!" Brad snapped, his voice slurred with irritation. "Who the hell do you think you are, telling me what to do?" The bartender flinched and backed off, deciding it was not worth arguing.
Marcus said grimly. "He called me earlier and gave me a heavy warning. He threatened that if I tried anything foolish, the Weller family wouldn't spare me or Lucy." Andrew's gaze turned icy. "It doesn't matter who shows up as long as they're part of the Weller family. Harvey's ruthless enough to use his own uncle as a pawn—he's truly despicable." Without further hesitation, Marcus pulled out his phone and dialed a number. It's me, Marcus. I've got the formula. When are you going to release Lucy?" On the other end of the line, Brad chuckled darkly. "Marcus, you've been awfully quick about this, haven't you? Don't worry. Hand over the formula and your precious daughter will be returned to you safe and sound." Marcus demanded, "Why should I trust the Weller family? What if I give you the formula, and you don't bring her back?" Brad snorted coldly. "Do you even have a choice, Marcus? Unless you want Lucy gone for good, you should cooperate." Grinding his teeth, Marcus replied,