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Chapter 354
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Rising from the Ashes Chapter 355
"Grandpa, you're so embarrassing…" Francesca groaned. Andrew smiled gently and said, "Let's head home—the event is wrapping up anyway."Elsie watched enviously from the side, thinking how a man who could casually give away such a valuable crystal must be irresistible to women. Suddenly, Andrew turned to her with a smile and said, "Ms. Santana, you've been a great help today. After you process those crystals, please take a ten million commission for yourself." "Really, Mr. Lloyd?" Elsie asked, both surprised and delighted. Andrew nodded. "Of course. If you hadn't invited me to this auction, I wouldn't have had the chance to make such a fortune." Even though Elsie was well-to-do herself and mingled with upper society, Andrew's generosity certainly caught her off guard. Seeing Elsie's admiring gaze toward Andrew, Francesca felt uneasy and urged, "Andrew, Grandpa, let's get going. Thank you for everything, Ms. Santana." "Mr. Lloyd, you should take the VIP exit to avoid unwan
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 356
"Once you're in my custody, I'll teach you how to behave," Donald threatened as he snatched the security case from Andrew. "Mr. Warren, you'd better not lay your dirty hands on Andrew," Francesca warned angrily. Donald laughed harshly. "He's just a nobody who got greedy. Not only will I touch him, but I'll also make sure he learns what prison feels like." "Fran, Dr. Aicker, you should head home. I'll handle this myself," Andrew said calmly. Francesca protested furiously, "Andrew, you did nothing wrong. Aspen must have set you up!" Andrew shrugged. "It's fine. I'm always ready to play whatever game someone wants to start. Since he wants to throw me in jail without cause, I'll cooperate and submit to his judgment." "Well, well," Donald mocked, moving closer to Andrew's face. "Most people wet themselves at the thought of jail, but you're all smiles. What, you think I can't touch you?" He continued with a cold smile, "I've seen plenty of punks like you who think they're un
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 357
"Aspen, how did you know they'd leave through the back door?" Christina asked as she and Aspen appeared at the VIP exit after Andrew and Elsie were taken away. "With such precious items in hand, Radiant Group would obviously arrange a secret exit," Aspen replied with a cold laugh. "Too bad Elsie isn't clever enough to outsmart me." After a moment of silence, Christina spoke up. "Aspen, once you get your things back, could you maybe ask them to go easy on Andrew?" Aspen was shocked. "Christie, you can't be soft-hearted about this. Donald is in charge of Jayrodale Police—whatever punishment he decides is out of my hands." Christina hesitated before asking, "But once they recover your items, that should be the end of it, right?" Aspen replied mockingly. "That depends on Donald's mood. Though I didn't tell him exactly what to do, he's one of my most devoted admirers. When he learned how Andrew conned me, he was furious. Andrew won't be released until he's learned his lesson." C
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 358
In truth, Simon felt deeply satisfied, hoping Andrew would get what he deserved from Donald. That way, no one would be left to compete with him for Francesca. However, Cedric was not swayed by Simon's words and instead gave the latter a grim look. He demanded, "What exactly are you trying to say?" "Sir, I'm just reminding you that Andrew's made too many enemies and can't be saved now," Simon said stubbornly. He added, "Even if all the Aickers tried to help, we'd be powerless—we can't risk conflicting with the police and destroying everything we've built." Francesca rushed over with tears in her eyes before Cedric could strike his ungrateful apprentice. "Grandpa, we don't need his help. I've already called Lauren—let's go save Andrew now!" "Don't cry, sweetheart. Dr. Lloyd will be fine," Cedric quickly consoled her. Francesca wiped her tears anxiously and said, "Donald is notorious for using torture and crippling people. I'm worried we'll be too late!" Simon's face darke
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 359
At the Rhodes residence, Lauren immediately prepared to leave after her phone call with Francesca. She would not let anyone who hurt Andrew get away so easily.."Miss, you can't leave without Mrs. Rhodes' permission," Jerry blocked her way at the main gate. Lauren's face remained expressionless as she said, "Move aside. This is urgent." "Miss, I must follow Mrs. Rhodes' orders," Jerry insisted firmly. "Please return inside. Any urgent matters need Mrs. Rhodes' approval." "What if I insist on leaving?" Lauren asked coldly. "Are you going to use force against me, Jerry?" As Jerry frowned in hesitation, a sharp voice cut through the air. "How dare you! As a daughter of the Rhodes family, you're becoming increasingly disrespectful and out of line!" Lauren's mother, Tiana Lambert, the matriarch of the Rhodes family, approached with an icy expression. Jerry immediately greeted her, "Mrs. Rhodes, you're here." Tiana simply dismissed Jerry, who immediately left. After all, Tia
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 360
"Contact someone? Can't do that—they took my phone," Andrew said with a smile. "Then how can you remain so calm, Mr. Lloyd?" Elsie sighed helplessly. Andrew simply replied, "Don't worry, someone will come get us out soon." Elsie shook her head doubtfully. Donald was the Police Commissioner of Jayrodale with considerable power and influence, and she was not even sure if Silas could help, given Donald's earlier dismissive attitude. In his office, Donald immediately called Aspen. "Aspen, it's all taken care of. I have the security case right here. When would you like to collect it?" "No rush," Aspen replied. "First, tell me how you'll handle this fraud case." Donald laughed darkly. "As you mentioned, the case involves over 100 million dollars and priceless antiquities. Once we hand him over to the judicial system, he won't see daylight for at least 20 years." Aspen chuckled and said, "In that case, I'll let you send him off for his free lunch as soon as possible." Donald
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 361
Elsie sneered, "Mr. Warren, are you planning to steal it right in front of us?" Donald shamelessly replied, "As the chief commissioner, I need to inspect what illegal goods are inside." "Inside is the Blood Phoenix Cicada that Mr. Lloyd won at our antique auction through stone gambling—worth over 100 million dollars. It's absolutely not illegal goods," Elsie retorted through gritted teeth. Donald ignored her explanation. In his mind, there was only one number—100 million dollars! Holy crap, what a jackpot! Donald said excitedly, "Well, well, Andrew. The value of your criminal case amounts to over 100 million. Now, as the commissioner, I order you to open that case immediately." Andrew replied calmly, "I advise you not to touch my belongings. Otherwise, I doubt you'll keep your position as commissioner for long." Donald laughed angrily, "You little punk, do as I say, or you'll suffer the consequences! This is my territory. If I really wanted to kill you right here, all it
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 362
Donald remained unfazed. He even propped his feet on the desk, completely dismissing the Aickers' presence. "Mr. Warren, please release Andrew," Francesca demanded coldly. "Why should I? A fraud belongs in prison." Donald scoffed. "Where's your evidence?" Francesca snapped. Donald replied, "The evidence is for the judge, not for you. Now, all you Aickers better leave my office immediately, or you won't be able to handle the consequences of obstructing justice." "Mr. Warren, Andrew is not a criminal," Cedric said gravely. "Moreover, he knows Mr. Thatcher personally. You'd better not do anything rash." Donald sneered. "Doctor, don't try to manipulate me. He's just a nobody—even if he's met the mayor once, does that count as knowing him?" "Donald, do you really want this to escalate to the mayor's office?" Cedric pressed. "If it comes to that, no one will be able to protect you." "Cedric, you're being ridiculous," Donald mocked. "As the chief commissioner of Jayrodale's po
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Rising from the Ashes Chapter 1152
Natasha joked, "Aspen, of all times, you could've walked out, you just had to pick the moment I was getting cozy with my darling. You're not jealous, are you? Trying to ruin the mood on purpose?" Aspen let out a cold laugh. "Madam Vostokoff, you're overthinking it. If you two want to flirt or even start going at it right here, it has nothing to do with me. If you think I was interrupting, then I apologize. I'll leave right now so you two can carry on." Natasha chuckled. "Come on now, Snow Queen, we're all on the same side here. I was just teasing. Don't take it to heart." The icy look on Aspen's face finally faded a little. "I'm heading out. A small firm is requesting investment from Supreme Capital Group, so I'm going to check them out and see if they're worth our time." She threw that out to Andrew with zero warmth, then strutted off, her hips swaying confidently as she left Serenity Villa. Andrew immediately instructed Dylan's crew to follow and keep her safe. Natasha sc
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 1151
Dylan and Natasha arrived in Blumedale the same night Andrew's orders were sent back to Jayrodale. They were accompanied by none other than the semi-martial king himself—Reuben. "Mr. Lloyd, that opportunity you mentioned… the one that could set me free—what is it exactly?" Reuben asked eagerly the moment he saw Andrew. Andrew waved his hand and said, "No rush. I haven't figured it out yet, but it won't be long." Reuben held back his excitement and simply nodded, saying nothing more. The more time he spent around Andrew, the more he realized just how unfathomable this man truly was. Back when he followed Elon to storm Jayrodale, he had been taught a brutal lesson. Now, there was not a shred of resentment left in him—only fear and awe. After all, a man who dared to kill a direct descendant of the Haywoods would have no problem ending him with a snap of his fingers. Reuben had only martial skills but no powerful family backing him—if Andrew ever wanted him dead, he would not la
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 1150
For Quinton, it had never been just about sleeping with Christina. What excited him more was the thrill—the thrill of a top-tier predator closing in on an ice-cold beauty. To him, conquering a woman like Christina would stroke his ego and validate his inflated sense of self-worth. Unfortunately for him, Christina never felt even a flicker of attraction toward him. At best, they could be called business allies—or to put it bluntly, she only saw him as a temporary tool. Quinton wanted power, possession, dominance. Meanwhile, Christina only wanted leverage—specifically, to use him and his connections to push the Stevens Corporation into Blumedale. … Over at the Goldings family estate, word of the Haywoods' bounty hit hard. Both Richard and Elon were momentarily stunned when they heard. "This kid really doesn't know when to stop," Richard growled. "Now he's provoked the Haywoods and even left a body behind. He's practically asking for death! He's so arrogant that it's disgusti
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 1149
The Haywoods' bounty order exploded across Blumedale like a thunderclap. Someone exclaimed, "Holy hell—two elite families teaming up to hunt down one man? Who the hell is this Andrew guy?" Another chimed in, "The Goldings offered 300 million, and now the Haywoods are throwing in half a billion. That's 800 million in total. I mean, damn—if I were an assassin, I'd be tempted!" "With both families issuing kill orders? No way Andrew makes it past today." … Elsewhere, Quinton wasted no time finding Christina and her family. "Christie," he said, barely hiding his glee, "things are about to get interesting. Andrew just caused a major disaster!" He looked positively thrilled at the news. Christina's tone remained cold. "I heard. I really don't know where he got the nerve to kill Seth. That's just ridiculous of him." Irene was playing with a new bracelet, her eyes gleaming as she casually said, "Who cares? Andrew's been arrogant long enough. Finally, someone's putting him in hi
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 1148
Aspen said, "You're the one who killed Seth. The Haywoods are going to target you first—so you'd better leave now while you still can!" Andrew said nothing. Instead, he walked toward her slowly, one step at a time. Aspen frowned and instinctively took a step back. The space between them was too close for comfort, and it made her uneasy. However, Andrew did not stop—he kept moving in, ignoring her resistance entirely. Aspen soon found herself backed up against the wall. Her expression turned cold as she snapped, "What are you doing?" Andrew leaned in, towering over her. "Aspen, something's off with you." "What are you talking about?" "You are… worried about my safety, aren't you?" Aspen shoved him hard, her face flushing as she barked, "I wasn't joking just now! If you're not taking this seriously, then just forget I said anything!" Her heart was pounding. For a second, she thought Andrew was going to kiss her. If he had, she would have bitten his tongue off without hes
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 1147
Andrew could not figure Aspen out, wondering what the hell was wrong with her now. He had just told her she could go, and she still looked upset. Andrew shook his head and stopped thinking about it. Instead, He pulled out his phone and made a call back to Jayrodale. "Gather your men and head to Blumedale immediately. And bring Reuben with you. Tell him—if he wants his freedom, I can offer him a way out." Reuben Davis was that semi–martial king Elon had once brought to Jayrodale. Under Andrew's control, the man had been training Dylan and Natasha in martial arts. Andrew did not know how the Haywoods would react to Seth's death, but he did not care. No matter what move they made, he would not back down. It was time to bring his core team into Blumedale. If these powerful families wanted to raise the stakes, he would play right along. Suddenly, his phone rang again. Andrew glanced at the caller ID and looked mildly surprised—it was Tiana. "Mrs. Rhodes, what can I do for you?"
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 1146
Chantelle said with a smirk. "The moment he found out something happened to you, the look on his face could've scared someone to death." Aspen froze for a second, her heart thumping wildly as she glanced at Andrew walking just ahead. She could not help but wonder if Andrew actually cared whether she lived or died. Chantelle gave a half-smile, half-sigh. "Mr. Lloyd sure seems emotionally invested in you, Ms. Stevens. But, if you don't mind me overstepping—there's something off in your head." Aspen blinked. "Excuse me? Ms. Garcia, what do you mean by that?" Chantelle chuckled softly. "I majored in psychology, both undergrad and grad school. Even with just a little observation, I'd say you're showing classic signs of Stockholm syndrome." Aspen's lips parted slightly, but no words came out. Chantelle studied her with a piercing gaze. "And I can tell you're an intelligent woman. You know you're getting deeper and deeper emotionally involved. But deep down… you don't actually want
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 1145
"Y-You actually dared to kill someone?" Chantelle stormed up to Andrew, her chest heaving with rage as she shouted, "You do know that murder is a crime, right?" Andrew replied flatly, "Then go ahead and arrest me. But you saw it too—this dead mutt barged into my company with a gang of thugs and trashed the place. He kidnapped my secretary, tortured her, and tried to get away with it." Chantelle fumed. "You had every right to fight back, but you had no right to kill him, do you understand?" Andrew's voice sharpened with impatience. "Ms. Garcia, that's enough! So what if I killed him? The guy came stomping into my space, and I'm supposed to just roll over and play dead?" Chantelle let out a bitter laugh and hissed, "Andrew, Mr. McCormick favored you. You've got incredible medical skills, and in Blumedale, you were this close to making your mark. "You had a bright future ahead of you—respect, success, everything within reach. But why would you throw it all away like this? Don't y
Rising from the Ashes Chapter 1144
Andrew hissed, "This third slap? No reason at all. I just don't like the look of your face and feel like beating you to death. And this fourth one's for your parents—since they clearly failed to raise you, I'll handle it for them." After the string of brutal slaps, Seth's head was spinning. His ears rang like sirens, and his vision started going black around the edges. "Andrew… I swear…" he gasped, his voice shaky. "I'll kill you. I'll kill you, you arrogant bastard!" However, just as he spat out his threat, a blood-curdling scream ripped from his throat—Andrew had suddenly snapped five of his fingers. "Keep going," Andrew said coldly, his voice like a death sentence. Seth's mouth bled as he glared up with bloodshot eyes. "You're dead. You're so fucking dead… "How dare you treat me like this? My family—everyone in the Haywoods—they'll never let this slide!" His scream pitched into hysteria as Andrew crushed the remaining five fingers on his other hand, rendering both of Se
