Ernest's face turned ashen before he forced a cold laugh. He sneered, "Kid, I almost fell for your tricks. You're putting on quite a show, but do you really think I'm that gullible?" Andrew shrugged casually and said, "Whether you believe me or not, Ernest, you'll find out in three days." Ernest's heart pounded as his confidence wavered. When misfortune struck, it usually hit hard and fast, and if what this young man said about a terminal illness was true, he would be in serious trouble. Following the principle of "better safe than sorry", Ernest hastily bid farewell to Natasha and rushed out of West End with his men. Natasha laughed behind her hand. "What a fool to believe such a story! He's probably heading straight to the hospital for a checkup. Darling, you really got him good!" Andrew replied calmly, "You're wrong. I wasn't trying to scare him. Everything I said was true. Ernest really does have a serious illness." Natasha scoffed. "He's gone now, and you don't have to
Ernest left Jayrodale General Hospital with his two personal bodyguards, looking relieved. "Phew, that brat really had me worried for nothing—I almost fell for his trick!" Ernest had just completed a comprehensive checkup at Jayrodale General Hospital. While there were some minor issues, nothing serious, let alone life-threatening conditions, was found. Being cautious about his health, Ernest requested seeing the hospital's best doctor. However, the staff informed him that their top physician, Andrew, was not currently available but could be scheduled for an appointment. Ernest immediately left. He believed that someone of his status should not lower himself to make appointments. The female bodyguard smiled and said, "Mr. Ramsey, you're as healthy a horse. That kid was clearly trying to deceive you." The other bodyguard chimed in, "In my opinion, this hospital isn't that great anyway. They found some minor issues like fatigue and other mild conditions. "Mr. Ramsey, isn't
Francesca smiled and joked, "Smart people tend to like sugar, and you're exceptionally brilliant, so you have an even bigger sweet tooth than I do." "You seem distracted. Has something happened?" Andrew asked while studying her expression. Francesca hesitated before sighing. "It's nothing major, but Grandpa and Simon had a huge fight. Grandpa threatened to expel him from the family practice." Andrew nodded silently, feeling it was not his place to comment on the Aickers' family matters. Francesca continued, "When our whole family rushed to rescue you at the police station earlier, Simon strongly opposed it and kept arguing with Grandpa and me. After you were saved, Grandpa went home and scolded Simon, but Simon's reaction was extreme, which led to their big argument." Andrew responded, "Mr. Aicker has quite a temper—I could tell. Fran, you might not like hearing this, but Simon seems to have questionable intentions." Francesca nodded in agreement. "You're right. I've notice
Andrew replied calmly, "Simon has always had issues with me, so I'm not surprised he brought me up. I'm guessing he complained about me to Cedric and you?" "He didn't complain because I wouldn't let him speak ill of you," Francesca answered awkwardly. "He just asked if you were the reason I wouldn't be with him, and what our relationship was like." Andrew found himself momentarily at a loss for words. Looking at Francesca's innocent face, he smiled and asked, "So what do you think about all this?" Francesca stammered, caught off guard by his directness. "W-What do you mean?" "I'm asking what you think about the situation. We could use this to help solve your problem with Simon," Andrew clarified with a gentle laugh. Francesca turned away, pretending to look at the riverside scenery to hide her flustered expression. Her heart was racing as she tried to calm her breathing. Andrew explained carefully, "You misunderstand. I'm not asking if you have feelings for me. In fact, I h
Andrew checked the time—it was already 8.30 p.m. He wondered if Natasha and Dylan had made their move yet, though he knew he would hear about it in the morning. Just then, a group of people sat down nearby, their laughter carrying across the space. "Aspen, you're absolutely brilliant! I can't believe you managed to strike a deal with Atlas Giordano, the king of the Northern District!" "Yes, yes! Aspen, you're truly worthy of being from the main Stevens family branch. Even here in Jayrodale, you're already dealing with all the major players as equals. I'm truly impressed!" The fawning voices sounded familiar to Andrew. Glancing over, he recognized Leroy and Irene. At their table sat the two beauties, Aspen and Christina. Aspen replied with practiced modesty, "Please, Leroy, Aunt Irene, you're too kind. Atlas is just a street thug—anyone with enough money can work with him. Though I'm new to Jayrodale, with Christie's help and the Stevens family influence, most people are w
Aspen spoke with unwavering confidence, "You're practically family, Christie's brother and mother. It would be heartless of me to refuse your investment. Besides, the Northern District has been growing rapidly, maintaining steady control over the other two factions. At this rate, Atlas will dominate the underground scene in no time." She continued, "Your investment comes at the perfect moment—you'll be counting profits while sitting back and relaxing!" Leroy expressed his gratitude with excitement. "Thanks, Aspen! Finally, someone's helping me level up in this game!" Irene said hopefully, "At last, my retirement is secured! The last time I trusted that bastard Harvey, he nearly cost me my life savings." Aspen replied contemptuously, "Christie told me all about Harvey's scheme. That manipulative fraud only gained your trust to scam you. Rest assured, the Weller family will pay for every penny they took!" Andrew couldn't stand it anymore and stood up. "Fran, let's go." Before
Christina let out a cold laugh and countered, "Warning me? Since when did you become so caring? Or is this just another attempt to get my attention? Can you honestly deny that?" Andrew's expression grew distant. "I only have one reason for doing this. It's out of respect for Mr. Stevens Senior, and because it would be a shame to see the Stevens Corporation fall apart in your hands." Christina responded with a mocking smile, her silence speaking volumes of her contempt. Leroy sneered. "Andrew, you might be riding high in your G-Wagon and dating rich women now, but do you have any idea who you're dealing with?" Andrew scoffed. "I couldn't care less about your background. All I know is that you're just another sore loser—a wannabe who can dish it out but can't take it." Leroy snapped. "Watch your attitude, Andrew. Let me tell you something—Aspen is from our main Stevens family branch. Do you know how powerful they are? Anyone from our family could make you bow down in an instan
Aspen's tone over the phone was aggressive and accusatory. Meanwhile, Donald sat in his office, still writing his disciplinary report, filled with frustration. Mark had given strict orders that Donald's report needed to show deep reflection and sincere remorse for his actions against Andrew. Hence, when Aspen's call came in, Donald found the perfect outlet for his pent-up anger. Taking a deep breath, Donald unleashed a thunderous roar into the phone, "Aspen, you absolute nightmare!" Aspen winced at the sudden outburst, and she scolded, "Donald, are you insane? Why are you screaming? What did you just say? I couldn't hear you over all that yelling." Donald gritted his teeth and snarled, "I said you're a nightmare! Did you hear me clearly this time?" Aspen frowned, suspecting Donald was insulting her, but she was not quite sure. "Can't you speak properly? I don't understand what you're trying to say!" Donald spat out, "Aspen, you bitch! You've got some nerve calling me. I'm t
Meanwhile, at the Goth family back in Jayrodale. Dominic had been restless since he returned from Quinton's roundtable event. He thought it was the perfect time for the Goth family to rise. If he could impress Quinton, billions of investments would come pouring into the family. With that kind of funding, the Goths could skyrocket and finally stand shoulder to shoulder with the Weller family, the Rhodes family, and other regional powerhouses. Eventually, Dominic could not wait any longer and eagerly waited for Nyla to get home from work. He greeted her with uncharacteristic warmth. "Nyla, come here, sweetheart. You're back a little early tonight, huh? It's been a while since we all sat down for dinner together. Tonight, I want to have a real heart-to-heart with you." Nyla gave him a suspicious look but walked over and sat down beside him. Normally, Dominic was completely consumed by family business. Even when he came home, he only spoke to Camilla and barely acknowledged Nyl
Tyler said plainly, "Seth? To be honest, I don't know you, and I definitely don't remember ever having a drink with you. So please, don't make up stories like that." He was still polite about it, but the message was loud and clear. Seth's face flushed with heat. Tyler had not yelled at him, but his tone made it obvious—he wanted Seth gone. He was not even acknowledged, let alone remembered, and the drink? A total lie. His attempt to show off had backfired hard, and the shame burned worse than any public embarrassment. Nonetheless, Seth did not have the guts to argue back. All he could do was step aside awkwardly, watching as Tyler turned his full attention to Aspen. Tyler said respectfully, "Ms. Stevens, your new company in Blumedale recently opened a corporate account with our bank, correct? A transaction just hit that account earlier today, and I felt this matter was serious enough that I needed to confirm it with you personally." Aspen frowned, thinking it over. The new
Aspen could not help but laugh to herself. Men in Blumedale really were something else—being a player here took skill, and this one clearly had it down to an art. Seth spouted romantic lines like a pro, sounding so sincere it was almost believable. Compared to him, Andrew might have been a brute with zero charm who only knew how to exploit her, draining every ounce of energy she had left. Nonetheless, at least Andrew was not fake—what you saw was what you got. Meanwhile, this charming heir from the Haywood family was starting to feel downright repulsive. "Mr. Haywood, I've told you more than once—there's no chance between us," Aspen said, her voice firm. "You should know I'm not even free right now. Honestly, my body doesn't even belong to me. While I appreciate your feelings, you're just wasting your time." She let out a sigh as if she was tired of repeating herself. Seth's face turned cold as he said with conviction, "Aspen, tell me—who's the bastard? The one controlling yo
Aspen silently swore that she was going to escape his clutches one day. The instructor, Lily Williams, replied calmly, "Yoga is a practice that helps you relax. It's about becoming one with nature and your own body and mind. What it values is harmony between humanity and nature—letting things flow naturally. "Ms. Stevens, your mind is clearly unsettled today. I think it's best we end your session here." Aspen thought for a moment, then nodded. "Alright. Thank you, Ms. Williams. I'll come back tomorrow." Lily smiled, then suddenly pointed outside the studio and said, "That gentleman is waiting for you again with flowers, Ms. Stevens. It's pretty obvious—he really likes you." Aspen turned her gaze toward the glass doors at the front of the studio. There stood Seth, holding a bouquet, dressed sharply and polished like a spoiled, wealthy heir straight out of a TV drama. His eyes glowed as he looked at her. His expression was calm and elegant, with a refined sort of charm. If sh
Andrew chuckled mockingly. "Looks like Harvey and the rest have finally learned their lesson." After hanging up the phone, Andrew did not spare another thought for Quinton. Right now, in Jayrodale, it did not matter whether it was Quinton or even his father—the head of one of the Five Apex Families—if Andrew did not feel like showing respect, he would not even blink. Meanwhile, Francesca was in the shower, her curvy silhouette faintly visible behind the frosted glass. Andrew saw it every day, so he was completely unfazed by now. Before the busty little troublemaker came out and started clinging to him again, Andrew made another call—this time to Aspen. "What do you want?" Aspen snapped the moment she picked up. "Calling at this hour—don't you think that's incredibly rude?" Andrew smirked. "It's barely past eight—how is that rude? Or wait… are you with some pretty boy over in Blumedale right now? You two in the middle of something?" Aspen was furious and shouted, "You're dis
Quinton muttered, "Christina's a tough one. She's still on guard and clearly doesn't trust me fully yet. So before I can truly get her under my thumb, I need to hit her with something big—something she won't see coming." Harvey chuckled coldly. "Fine, Quinton. I'll play along. I've been itching to make a move on the Stevens family anyway." Quinton nodded. "Good. Then wait for my signal, and act when the moment's right." … Meanwhile, over at Moonlit Apothecary, closing time had arrived. "Dr. Aicker, Dr. Lloyd, I'm heading home for the night!" Nyla said cheerfully. It was as if Camilla stealing her paycheck had never happened. Andrew smiled warmly. "Alright, Nyla. Get home safe." Nyla gave him a bright smile and walked out with her bag swinging gently by her side. Francesca watched her go and scoffed. "I can't believe how naive that girl is. She's being walked all over and doesn't even make a sound. Honestly, I don't get her." Andrew spoke softly, "Nyla's a kind girl. S
Harvey stood up and said, "Mr. Wright, since the Weller family can't be of help, we'll be taking our leave." However, Quinton raised his hand. "Hold on. I've got something to discuss with you, Mr. Weller. Shawn, Christina—go on ahead. I just need a private word with Mr. Weller." Christina did not think twice and left right away. However, Shawn frowned. He wondered why Quinton was pulling Harvey aside instead of discussing it with him, his most trusted man. He felt slighted, but he did not dare show it. With a tight expression, he quietly walked out. Once everyone else had gone, only Harvey and a few of the Weller family's elders remained with Quinton. Harvey crossed his arms. "Alright, Quinton. Now that it's just us, what is it you need? If you're still trying to drag the Weller family into a fight with Andrew, then forget it. That's not happening." He locked eyes with Quinton, clearly on guard. Quinton shook his head, his face cold and composed. "Relax, Harvey. I don't
Quinton glanced over, not thinking much of Dominic since the latter was just another small-time family head. He replied flatly, "Speak, Mr. Goth. If you really have a way to get me what I want, then I'll make you a promise right here. The Goth family will become the number one family in Jayrodale, and I'll personally make it happen." Dominic lit up with excitement. "Mr. Wright, you might not know this, but my daughter is currently working at Moonlit Apothecary. If you want the formulas for those two miracle pills, I just might be able to get them—through her." Quinton's eyes widened, and a look of shock turned into overwhelming joy. "What did you say? Your daughter works at Moonlit Apothecary?" "What's her name? How much does Andrew trust her? Is she part of the inner circle or just another employee?" He fired off questions without pausing, his mind spinning. It would not be useful if she was just a background worker or someone sweeping floors. He needed someone Andrew actual
Harvey shook his head and said, "Sorry, Mr. Wright, I appreciate the offer, but the Weller family truly can't help you. I can only express my regrets." Quinton clenched his jaw and snapped, "So you're admitting you're just as spineless as the others? No different from that bunch of cowards who just walked out?" Harvey's face darkened—he had not expected Quinton to speak so bluntly and with such blatant disrespect. Harvey said coldly, "Heh, coward or not, call me whatever you want. But the Weller family is staying out of this. Because I have no interest in throwing myself into a pit I can't climb out of." It was a direct declaration, and Harvey clearly was not holding back anymore. He had already learned his lesson the hard way from crossing Andrew—he had paid for it, suffered for it, and was not about to make the same mistake again. Unless he had the power and a surefire win, Harvey was not going to make a single move. Quinton turned to glance at Christina, but she looked a