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,
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.
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
"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
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
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
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
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!"
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