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.
"I'm sorry, Andrew, but I can't marry you!" Christina Stevens declared coldly in the CEO's office of Stevens Corporation. She sat behind her desk, looking elegant in a black lace dress, her demeanor icy and aloof. Across from her sat a handsome man in modest attire. Andrew Lloyd could not believe what he was hearing and asked, "Christie, what do you mean? What happened to the promise between us?" They had agreed to tie the knot on the day Stevens Corporation went public, marking the end of their three-year courtship. "Since we've been dating each other, I'll be frank," Christina replied, tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear. Her stunning features exuded grace and beauty with every movement. "Andrew, don't you think the gap between us has grown too wide? It's like we're from different worlds now. Forcing this relationship won't do you any good. For me, it would be… a burden." A burden? Andrew was stunned, never expecting Christina to say such a thing. If it had not
In the elevator, Andrew opened the modest ring box. A dazzling pink diamond immediately caught the light, its brilliance filling the small space. This 7.5-million-dollar luxury ring was once known as the "King of Diamonds" of Jayrodale, truly one of a kind. Andrew did not know exactly how much money was on the bank card, but he was sure it was enough to buy Stevens Corporations ten times over. Moments ago, Christina and Irene had not even bothered to look at these treasures, with Irene dismissing them as junk. As the elevator doors opened, Andrew stepped out. "Well, well, if it isn't Andrew! You don't look so good," a mocking voice greeted him. Andrew calmly looked up to see a man in a tailored suit, his hair slicked back, holding a bouquet of blue roses. It was Shawn Fields, Jayrodale's infamous trust fund baby and one of Christina's most persistent admirers. Not wanting to talk to him, Andrew tried to sidestep him, but Shawn moved to block his path again. Andrew's eyes turn
Meanwhile, Andrew had already settled into a Rolls-Royce, heading toward Jayrodale General Hospital. His phone rang, and to his surprise, it was Christina calling. Since their relationship was over, Andrew saw no reason to answer. Yet, the phone kept ringing, seemingly urgent. Frowning, Andrew finally decided to pick up. "Andrew, listen to me. Turn yourself in immediately!" Christina's voice blared through the speaker, catching Andrew off guard. "That King of Diamonds is worth 7.5 million dollars, Andrew. Have you lost your mind? I know you did this to make me happy, but have you considered the legal consequences? Turn yourself in now, while there's still time. Don't worry, with Stevens Corporation's influence in Jayrodale, I'll do my best to keep you out of jail!" Christina's voice was filled with righteous indignation, feeling disappointed in Andrew. Andrew finally understood—she thought he had stolen the King of Diamonds. "You've got it wrong. I didn't steal it," he said sim
Amidst the flurry of bodyguards, a young girl was rushed into the hospital on a stretcher. By her side, a tall, stunning woman with long flowing hair and legs clad in black stockings clutched the girl's hand desperately. Her voice trembled with emotion as she spoke, "Cece, please be okay. I'm right here, and I promise I'll save you, no matter what." Despite the urgency of the situation, many onlookers immediately recognized the woman. She was Lauren Rhodes, the heiress of the prestigious Rhodes family and widely regarded as the most beautiful woman in Jayrodale. In the city's fashion industry, Lauren was often described as a femme fatale. "Ms. Rhodes, please don't worry. Our hospital will do everything in our power to save your sister," Bernard Hackett, the hospital's deputy chief, rushed to assure her. Lauren's status and the Rhodes family's influence in Jayrodale were unparalleled. Hence, their presence demanded nothing but the utmost dedication and respect from the hospita
Lauren's face paled instantly. "What did you say? Where's Dr. Hackett? What's going on?" Bernard and Philip approached, looking apologetic. "We're sorry, Ms. Rhodes. Ms. Cecelia's condition is critical. We've done all we can." Philip added, his voice filled with frustration, "The initial treatment seemed promising, but suddenly, Ms. Cecelia's breathing weakened dramatically. It's not our lack of skill, Ms. Rhodes. We're simply facing an impossible situation." Before Philip could finish his explanation, Lauren slapped him. "Ms. Rhodes, what was that…" "You idiot!" Lauren seethed, her body trembling with rage. "Didn't you just boast about your ability to save Cece?" Philip stood there, speechless and humiliated, his cheek stinging from the blow. Then, Lauren turned to Bernard, her voice dripping with venom. "Dr. Hackett, I'll ask you one last time. Is there anyone else in this hospital who can help? If anything happens to her, you and your incompetent son will face severe
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,