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!"
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.
"Mr. Warren, as far as I know, what Harvey and Serena did falls under moral issues. Using legal means won't do you any good," Andrew said. Then, he asked, "So, did Brad give you anything useful during the interrogation?" Donald scoffed. "Taking his stepmother to bed and doing something that shameless? Sure, it's a moral issue, but don't you think it's something that deserves divine punishment?" Andrew chuckled. "Mr. Warren, it seems like you're itching to do something to express your outrage, aren't you?" Donald smirked. "Of course! While I was interrogating Brad, there happened to be a few intern reporters present." He continued, "So, my apologies, but tomorrow, Jayrodale's front page will have the Weller family's scandal plastered all over it in the biggest headline. Make sure to subscribe and enjoy it, Mr. Lloyd." Andrew laughed and cursed in jest, "Enjoy it, my ass. I have no interest in this kind of trashy gossip." Donald chuckled mischievously. "Oh, come on, Mr. Llo
Unable to take it anymore, Andrew tapped Hugh's shoulder and said politely, "Hey man, could you move your chair a bit? It's really tight back here." Hugh turned around and snapped, "Move your own damn self if you're uncomfortable, you idiot!" As he cursed, he deliberately showed off the tiger tattoo on his chest. This trick usually let him swagger around Jayrodale unchallenged, since most people were easily intimidated by such displays. Fiona Smith leaned forward aggressively and asked, "Hugh, what's wrong? Is this loser bothering you?" Hugh sneered. "Just eat your food, he's nobody. This moron actually asked me to move my chair. Who does he think he is, the king of Jayrodale's underground? He's got a death wish!" Andrew frowned and replied, "Watch your mouth. If you keep spewing trash, I might just help you find out what it actually tastes like." Hugh rolled up his sleeves and pointed at Andrew's face, bellowing, "Do you have any idea who I am? Listen here, you piece of c
The restaurant owner hurriedly retreated into the kitchen, too scared to intervene further. Meanwhile, the other diners cast sympathetic glances at Andrew, their hushed murmurs echoing their shared sentiment of pity. One diner whispered, "Just finish your meal quickly, and let's get out of here. Hugh always throws his weight around because of his ties to the Madblade Martial Academy." "The poor guy over there is doomed—looks like he's too soft to handle a thug like Hugh." Another diner chimed in, "The guy's unlucky, but did you see his girlfriend? She's stunning, like a goddess. Hugh's got a reputation for being a sleaze. He'll definitely try to mess with her." "That handsome guy was too rushed. When he met a mad dog like Hugh, he should've held back for a while, and the situation would've passed. Although our society is a society ruled by law, power is still absolute—we're no one to fight against that." All the diners pitied Andrew, thinking he was unlucky. However, a few a
Nyla lifted her tear-streaked face, eyes full of sorrow. She choked out, "Andy… my dad… he's forcing me… He wants your formulas. He's making me steal them and bring them back to him." She broke down into sobs. "Andy, Dr. Aicker, you should fire me. I don't deserve to stay at Moonlit Apothecary anymore. I don't even have the face to show up here!" The words poured out of her as the tears fell. She had finally revealed everything because her trust in Andrew and Francesca was unconditional. Her loyalty to them ran deeper than blood, and when it came to Dominic, the man who was supposed to be her father, she felt nothing but heartbreak and betrayal. She had come to see that the man who once called her his daughter had turned into someone cold, greedy, and unrecognizable. He wanted her to betray Andrew—to steal from someone who had only ever been kind to her. Nyla realized she simply could not do it. She would rather tell the truth than live with that kind of guilt. Francesca
"But the Three Titans—Driscolls, Phelans, and the most elusive of them all, the Drache family—you'd better be careful around them, Mr. Lloyd," Phantom Eye said seriously. He added, "From what I've heard, those families each have someone far beyond the martial king level hidden in their ranks." Andrew remained unfazed. "If they don't mess with me, I won't mess with them. So what if they're above martial king? The world is vast—no one stays undefeated forever. There's always a higher peak beyond the last, and just because they're the Three Titans doesn't make them invincible." Phantom Eye nodded, still concerned. "Maybe so, but the Three Titans have always held the reins there. So, Mr. Lloyd, it never hurts to stay cautious when you're not on home turf." Andrew understood where Phantom Eye was coming from. Anyone who survived in Blumedale's ruthless martial world had to have a sharp eye and a wide view. Even a semi–martial king could build a reputation and live comfortably, but
A new day had begun. First thing in the morning, Andrew noticed several missed calls from Aspen. However, he did not respond to any of them. He already knew exactly why she was calling—she wanted to ask about the new 40 billion dollar transfer. However, Andrew did not feel the need to explain. As far as he was concerned, as long as Aspen managed the funds properly, that was enough. Francesca stepped out of the bathroom with flushed cheeks, looking irritated and disappointed. "Andrew, my period just started." Andrew chuckled. "It is what it is. Does your stomach hurt? Want me to give you the classic 'get some rest' line?" Francesca clenched her jaw. "Don't. Only emotionally clueless guys with zero tact say stuff like that." Andrew nodded seriously. "I agree. That's why I was going to make you a proper warm tea instead." Francesca waved it off. "No need. I may be on my period, but I'm not cramping or low on energy. Don't forget—I grew up in a traditional medicine family. My
Nyla could not believe how Dominic could say something so vile, so cruel, and actually mean it. Dominic let out a furious snort, his tone sharp as a blade. "Listen closely. The Goth family is currently on the verge of locking in a billion-dollar investment deal. Do you have any idea what that kind of money means? "It would launch our family into the elite overnight—we'd finally be one of the top powers in all of Jayrodale. For that kind of future, a small sacrifice like this is nothing. Nyla, you're not a child anymore. It's time you started contributing to this family." Camilla, her belly swollen from pregnancy, was practically trembling with excitement. "Wait—what did you just say? A billion-dollar investment? Oh my god, do you know how massive that is?" She turned to Nyla, her tone sharp and commanding. "Did you hear that? Dominic is doing this because he has no choice—it's all for the family. If you had even a sliver of conscience, you'd agree without hesitation. "So wha
Camilla could not help but sneer. "Dominic, I told you long ago that Nyla isn't loyal to our family. She's always been the type to side with outsiders. "You treat her well, and in the end, she'll never remember what you did for her. If you ask me, raising a stray dog would've been better than raising her." Dominic's voice turned cold. "You're right. I must've been blind to raise such a disgrace. If I'd known she'd turn out like this, I should've let her die with her mother!" The alcohol was clearly taking over. Dominic had downed a couple of drinks, and now his true colors were coming out. His face turned red, his eyes fierce, and a violent temper simmered just under the surface. Nyla was terrified. Before long, her vision blurred as tears welled up. She was used to Camilla being mean to her and trying to push her out of the family, but she never expected her own father to be so cruel. She never imagined Dominic to say something so venomous—something like wishing she had die
It was not that Nyla was some reckless flirt—far from it. She was just under unbearable pressure from her family, and Andrew's sudden appearance had felt like a lifeline. In her heart, she fantasized that if she could marry someone like Andrew, her life would finally feel complete. Nonetheless, it did not take long for reality to set in. Andrew was incredible—kind, brilliant, and respected—and she knew she was not in his league. Gorgeous and confident women like Lauren and Francesca were all vying for his attention, so someone like her did not stand a chance. That thought broke her heart a little, but at the same time, she felt strangely lucky. After all, even though Nyla did not have his love, Andrew and Francesca, not to mention Lauren, were all incredibly kind to her. Especially Andrew. As the head of Moonlit Apothecary, he cared for her and supported her like a mentor. At Moonlit Apothecary, she could already see a promising future ahead of her. "Dad, if there's somethin
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