Tiana's voice boomed with authority. "Howard, do you admit to what Mr. Lloyd just said? Did you speak to him disrespectfully?" Howard's eyes darted around as he scrambled for a lie. However, before he could speak, Andrew let out a cold chuckle. "I'd think twice before digging your own grave. Everything you said and did—there are surveillance cameras all over the Pharmaceutical Division." Howard's face turned pale, and he immediately swallowed his words. He quickly changed his tone. "I-I did say some things I shouldn't have, but I—" Before he could finish, Tiana slapped him across the face hard. The impact was so fierce that Howard saw stars, nearly blacking out. Michael stood there, dumbfounded. He could not believe that Tiana was hitting her own family. Even Lauren and Marcus were caught off guard. After all, Tiana had come in looking ready to tear into Andrew, but now she was disciplining her own nephew instead. With blood trickling from his lips, Howard whimpered, "Aunt
Lauren chuckled. "So tell me, how did you figure out that Mom felt guilty?" Andrew smirked. "It's simple—she was furious that Howard let himself get used by Michael. Think about it. Someone as high up as Mrs. Rhodes—would she ever tolerate someone messing with her people? That's a slap to her face." He added, "But she held herself back because someone of her status—someone who practically runs Rhodes Corporation—wouldn't lower herself to go after Michael directly. On top of that, Michael has her trust, at least on the surface. "So, with no other option, she had to swallow her pride. She knew she was in the wrong, so she let me go without another word and just took Howard with her." Marcus nodded thoughtfully. "That actually makes a lot of sense, Mr. Lloyd. If that's the case, then Mrs. Rhodes must be seriously displeased with Michael." Andrew leaned back in his chair, speaking at a leisurely pace. "It's more than just 'displeased'. Think about it—Michael's incompetence is obv
Tiana let out a cold scoff. "What do you know? Andrew's strength is far beyond what you and the rest of your generation can even comprehend! If I hadn't stepped in today, he wouldn't have beaten you half to death." Howard clenched his teeth. "Fine, maybe I can't beat him—but our Lambert family isn't afraid of him." Tiana sneered. "Still clinging to your family name for protection? Pathetic. Let me ask you this—when Andrew made his move, who was backing him? Did he have anyone supporting him? He walked in alone, and yet he crushed you—and that useless fool Michael—without breaking a sweat." She shook her head with disappointment. "Watching you weaklings struggle is honestly embarrassing for the Lambert family. But Marvin managed to cultivate someone this powerful. That's something I can't afford to ignore." For once, there was a rare trace of exhaustion in Tiana's voice, as if the weight of the situation was finally getting to her. Howard was too stunned to even be upset at her
The elderly patients continued showering Cedric and Francesca with gratitude. In Jayrodale, the Aicker family had long earned a stellar reputation in the medical field. When Nyla spotted Andrew walking in, her eyes lit up with excitement. "Dr. Lloyd—no, Andrew, you're here!" Under Andrew's firm insistence, she had finally stopped addressing him so formally. Andrew smiled. "Yeah, I'm here. How's your health? Are you feeling better?" Nyla grinned. "Way better! I don't feel any pain at all anymore. The supplements you prescribed worked like a miracle!" Andrew nodded. "Go grab me a chair. I'll take over for Mr. Aicker so he can rest for a bit." Nyla waved her hands frantically. "No way! Andrew, you've already been working all day. You should be the one resting. I'll tell Mr. Aicker to take a break instead!" Andrew shook his head. "I'm fine. Just make sure Mr. Aicker gets some rest—I'll handle the remaining patients so we can close up soon." Seeing that Andrew would not take
Andrew looked completely innocent as he said, "It's not like I wanted this to happen! I just wanted to make things easier for Mr. Aicker so he wouldn't have to work so hard!" Francesca let out a huff, flashing her sharp little canine teeth as she smirked. "At this rate, the people of Jayrodale are going to think you're the only doctor around! They'll forget that my grandfather is Cedric Aicker!" Cedric scoffed, giving her a sharp look. "What nonsense are you spouting? Do you really think I care about fame and status? Dr. Lloyd's medical skills are far beyond mine. If patients trust him more, that's because he earned it fair and square." Francesca secretly stuck out her tongue and rolled her eyes at Andrew. She was just talking big—deep down, she was actually proud of him. Andrew chuckled. "Mr. Aicker, Fran, come sit down. There's something I want to discuss with the Aicker family." Then, he turned to Nyla and said, "Nyla, could you bring us some tea?" Nyla grinned. "Got it!
Andrew nodded. "This isn't a modern formula—it comes from Holtrien's ancient medical tradition passed down for generations." Cedric was amazed. "That explains everything! The rarity of ancient formulas is beyond measure, and these two are among the best of the best. Their value is simply incalculable." Francesca hesitated. "Andrew, these formulas are priceless… are you really okay with just showing them to us?" Andrew chuckled. "Why wouldn't I be? Do you really think I'd ever be on guard against you, Fran? Besides, I'm showing you because I want you to feel reassured and join me in producing these groundbreaking medicines!" A warm, sweet feeling spread through Francesca's chest, and a rosy blush colored her fair cheeks. So, Andrew trusted her completely—he already considered her one of his own. She wondered if their relationship progressed, she could truly become his woman. Her mind started to wander, imagining all the possibilities. Meanwhile, Cedric smacked the table in
"Alright, it's getting late. Let's lock up and head home," Andrew said with a smile after taking a few sips of the tea Nyla had prepared. Cedric chuckled. "I'll head back to the Aicker residence Fran, you and Dr. Lloyd can go back to Moonlit Sanctuary." Francesca rolled her eyes playfully. "I got it, Grandpa! You don't have to spell it out!" The two of them locked up Moonlit Apothecary and were just about to leave when a luxury car pulled up, stopping right in front of the store. "Sorry, we're closed for the night. If you need a doctor, come back tomorrow," Francesca said politely. However, as soon as she saw who was stepping out of the car, her expression turned strange. "Well, Andrew, what's this? You're not going to welcome me?" The one speaking was none other than Irene, accompanied by her entire family—including Christina in a sleek white dress—and Aspen, their driver. Andrew ignored her completely, his gaze settling on Christina instead. He asked indifferently, "
Leroy said, "You just need to manage Stevens Corporation, make good money, hand over your G-Wagon to me, and introduce Natasha to me as my future wife. That's all!" Andrew burst out laughing—so hard his stomach hurt. He mocked, "Hah! The Stevens sure are straightforward with their demands. And wow, so polite about it too!" However, Irene did not seem to catch the sarcasm in his tone. She beamed. "Of course! Andrew, just come back and patch things up with Christie. You two were meant to be together! Don't worry, as your future mother-in-law, I'll treat you well from now on. Everything that happened in the past? Consider it forgotten!" Leroy stretched out his hand expectantly and smirked. "Andrew, give me the keys to the G-Wagon now. I'll take it for a spin at the club tonight—gotta impress the ladies! And about Natasha, no rush! Just talk to her and let her know that becoming my wife would be an honor. She should be grateful, honestly!" He was already lost in his own fantasy, gr
Andrew waved a hand dismissively. "I don't have time to explain everything to you, and even if I did, you wouldn't understand it anyway. You just need to know this—if you want to save your father, then do exactly what I tell you to." Logan looked uncertain and shot a quick glance at Chantelle as if to ask, "Who is this guy you brought along, and what's with the ego?" Chantelle's face darkened. "Mr. Keller, this man is Andrew Lloyd—he came at Mr. McCormick's recommendation. But honestly, you don't have to take him seriously. Just carry on with your own plans—ignore him." However, Logan shook his head and turned toward Andrew. "Dr. Lloyd, go ahead. Tell me what you need. As long as it'll help my father, I'll make it happen." His respectful tone stunned Chantelle. She wondered if Logan was out of his mind for believing Andrew just like that. Andrew smiled. "My request is actually pretty simple. If I'm going to treat your father, I expect to be compensated. So, I want access to al
Chantelle could not lash out, so she gritted her teeth and quickly followed behind. Inwardly, she made a mental note to report this arrogant clown to Derek later. To her, Andrew was reckless, so full of hot air, and completely unworthy of trust—nothing but a showboating jester. … Inside the main hall of the Keller residence, the place was packed with people coming and going. A group of specialists and renowned doctors stood gathered, their brows furrowed as they exchanged anxious whispers. One commented, "Mr. Keller Senior's condition is strange—truly bizarre!" "Exactly. His entire face is paralyzed. Even his tongue won't move. He can't swallow even a spoonful of medicine!" Another chimed in, "And the worst part? No one can get within three feet of him. The second anyone tries, they get attacked—some left with cracked skulls, others… well, some didn't make it." "Jeez! That serious? Who would dare try to treat him now? No matter how much the Keller family is offering, it's no
Chantelle was behind the wheel while Andrew rode along in the passenger seat as they headed out to treat Derek's old friend, George Keller. The atmosphere inside the car was tense, with Chantelle's resting expression as frosty and detached as ever, her face practically carved from ice. Andrew was not the kind of guy to throw warmth at a wall of cold, so he simply stayed quiet, staring out the window at the passing streets. After holding back for a while, Chantelle finally could not resist and let out a mocking laugh. "Mr. Lloyd, what a clever move—create your own mess, then try to get Mr. McCormick to step in and clean it up for you. Don't you think you're playing with fire?" Andrew smiled. "Playing with fire? Nah, I don't see it that way. At this point, I'm pretty much one of Mr. McCormick's trusted men. So if the little guy's getting targeted, doesn't it make perfect sense for the boss to step in and fix it?" Chantelle was momentarily stunned before letting out a scoff. "An
Derek said coldly, "These elite families and old-money clans have been feasting off Blumedale like it's their private banquet. They think they can gorge themselves for life, rule without question, and remain unchallenged. "But as long as I'm the one calling the shots in this province, they don't get to do as they please!" Chantelle was startled. She had not expected Andrew to actually ignite Derek's fury. She silently cursed, 'This idiot is already useless on his own, and now even worse, he's using Mr. McCormick as his shield? It's despicable!' Derek turned to Andrew. "Mr. Lloyd, don't worry. Those arrogant bastards—I'll handle them and make sure you get justice. But the reason I brought you here today is something more urgent. There's a matter I need your help with." Andrew lifted a hand and said, "Mr. McCormick, say the word. If I can help, I will." Derek nodded. "Here's the situation—an old friend of mine suddenly found himself fighting for his life. We've brought in nearly
Andrew said indifferently, "I was just being honest. I don't see how that counts as a joke. And besides, didn't you dress up to please Mr. McCormick's eyes?" Chantelle, who usually stayed cool as ice, immediately felt her temper flare. "You…" Andrew could not be bothered to deal with her. Without waiting for any announcement, he pushed open Derek's office door and swaggered in. "Uncouth brute…" Chantelle gritted her teeth and followed behind him with a scowl. Derek's office, just like his reputation, was simple and understated. Aside from two traditional landscape paintings and a few framed family photos, Andrew did not see a single decorative item inside. "Mr. Lloyd, you're here—please, have a seat!" Derek stood up with a warm smile the moment Andrew walked in. Andrew chuckled. "Mr. McCormick, you're the top official in Gabo Creek Province. If you're personally welcoming me, I might start getting a big head. You go ahead and sit—I'll manage just fine." Derek took his sea
The red Ferrari sped down from the mountaintop of The Sovereign Residences, tires slicing through the breeze with precision. Aspen sat in the passenger seat, hesitating for a while before finally speaking. "That Xavier… turns out he's Seth's older brother, and even worse—he's a full-blown colonel. Andrew, a colonel in the military is basically a god to most people. You'd better… watch your back." Andrew hit the brakes and stopped right in front of the gated entrance of The Sovereign Residences. He turned with a grin. "Aspen, are you worried about my safety?" Aspen scoffed, gritting her teeth a little. "Worried is a stretch. I'm just giving you a heads-up. And don't act like it's nothing. We haven't even cleaned up the mess with Seth and Mr. Parks." She added, "And now you've provoked the Haywoods' golden boy too? All I can say is—way to add fuel to the fire." Andrew said flatly, "One loser or 100 losers, there's no real difference." At that moment, the two martial arts guard
Ethan refused to let it go. He pointed at Andrew, cursing under his breath. "Kid, I'm not gonna stoop to your level. But if I actually wanted to deal with you, you wouldn't even live to see the sunrise tomorrow. You better believe that." Xavier stepped forward and looked down at Andrew with a calm, superior gaze. "I can see you've got some skill. Otherwise, you wouldn't have been able to stand up to my younger brother, Seth. "But here's a word of advice—you've made too many enemies. And your attitude? It's practically begging for trouble. Sooner or later, it'll catch up to you." Andrew raised a brow. "So that scumbag Seth is your little brother, huh? That means you're from the Haywoods." Although Xavier tried maintaining a cool, aloof front, a hint of arrogance still slipped through his mask. "I'm the eldest son of the Haywoods. Go ask anyone on the streets of Blumedale—see if there's a soul who doesn't know the name Xavier Haywood." Andrew shook his head. "Sorry, but I'm not
Andrew replied coolly, "Alright, fine. I did do it on purpose. But the only reason I chose the room next to yours was so it'd be easier for you to wake me up in the mornings. Nothing more—so don't go overthinking it." Aspen crossed her arms and let out a cold laugh. "You think I'm buying that?" Andrew shrugged. "Whether you believe it or not doesn't matter. Even if I asked you to warm my bed at night, would you dare say no?" "You…" Aspen was instantly at a loss for words. Her cheeks turned pink as she silently fumed. She was sure that the bastard Andrew was still lusting after her body. Andrew seemed to read her mind and scoffed, "You dumb woman. Don't flatter yourself. Do you really think the only reason I went through the trouble of snatching Serenity Villa from Zachary and picked the room next to yours was just to sleep with you?" As Aspen let out a sarcastic chuckle, Andrew headed downstairs, adding, "I did it because you're weak. If you got yourself killed because of on
Aspen ran through every room and checked out the front and back of the house. By the end of it, her legs were sore. Even so, instead of feeling tired, her delicate face was lit up with excitement and wonder. "Hey, this place is hands-down the best, fanciest, and most expensive location I've ever seen in my life!" she said, rubbing her aching calves while smiling up at Andrew. Andrew replied casually, "Judging by that smile you can't wipe off your face, I'm guessing you're falling in love with it?" Aspen pouted. "Saying I'm not would just be lying to myself. Serenity Villa is clearly the kind of estate that money alone can't buy. A place like this… I'd say only the top families in Blumedale are worthy of it." Andrew let out a dismissive snort. "Don't put those so-called Blumedale elites on a pedestal. Serenity Villa isn't some heavenly paradise. Just remember—the view from the top is always the most breathtaking. And Blumedale in Gabo Creek Province? That place barely makes it t