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Chapter 8

Penulis: Only For You
Just then, Lauren's phone rang. After answering, she turned to Andrew and said, "Dr. Lloyd, feel free to look around. I need to take care of something. See you in a bit!"

Andrew nodded. "Of course, Ms. Rhodes. Don't let me keep you."

There was still some time before the fundraiser officially began. More influential figures, all eyeing the orphanage's valuable property, continued to arrive. Before long, the parking lot was already filled with luxury cars.

A sleek black Rolls-Royce pulled up, drawing everyone's attention. As the door opened, a stunning woman in a pure white cocktail dress stepped out, her legs as fair as snow. Her appearance drew gasps of admiration from the crowd.

"What a beauty! Her grace is truly unparalleled!"

"I'd risk jail time just for a moment with a woman like that!"

"That's the famous CEO of Stevens Corporation. Not only is she gorgeous, but her business insight is extraordinary. She'll probably snag this prime real estate tonight."

Another luxury car pulled up behind the Rolls-Royce. Shawn eagerly jumped out and approached the center of attention, Christina.

"Christie, you really know how to make an entrance. I bet you'd be a top celebrity even if you weren't the CEO of Stevens Corporation!"

Shawn's eyes could not hide his admiration as he gazed at the radiant Christina. Christina, however, seemed uncomfortable with his closeness.

"Let's focus on business. And I think it's best we maintain some distance in public."

Shawn brushed off her concern. "What's there to worry about? Everyone knows how I feel about you, Christie. Besides, you're single now. You kicked that loser to the curb, so no one can say anything."

Irene chimed in, supporting Shawn. "That's right, Christie. Andrew's out of the picture now. Plus, Shawn's our ally. We'll need his support for Stevens Corporation tonight."

From a distance, Andrew watched Christina and Shawn chatting and laughing, surrounded by other guests. He had not expected to run into the woman who had almost become his wife in such a place. He turned away, intending to leave.

However, Christina spotted him and called out, "Andrew… is that you? Wait right there!"

The click of high heels echoed as Christina approached, uncertainty in her steps.

Andrew cursed his luck silently before turning to face her with a cold expression. "What can I do for you, Ms. Stevens?"

Christina's smile faltered. "Andrew, it really is you. A-Are you still angry with me?"

Andrew took a deep breath, quickly suppressing his emotions. "You must be joking, Ms. Stevens. A nobody like me has no right to be angry. If there's nothing else, I'll leave you in peace."

"Wait, don't go!" Christina stepped forward, her tone serious. "Even though our relationship is over, I've always thought you were a good person, Andrew. So please, listen to me one last time—why don't you turn yourself in?"

Andrew let out a cold laugh, amused by how Christina was still as clueless as ever. Even until then, she was unaware of the true situation.

"Why don't you call the police right now and have them arrest me, Ms. Stevens?"

Christina was taken aback, then her face flushed with anger. "Andrew, why are you being so stubborn? Even if I wronged you, that's no excuse to break the law! Listen to me. Return the King of Diamonds and face the consequences of your actions."

Irene and Shawn approached, their faces unfriendly.

"Christie, why are you even bothering with him?" Shawn sneered as he turned to Andrew. "A shameless thief daring to show up at a high-class event like this. Where do you get the nerve?"

Irene chimed in, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Andrew, did you follow Christie here like a lost puppy? I just don't get why you keep hanging around. It's pathetic."

Andrew glanced at the arrogant Shawn. "Didn't that slap teach you how to behave?"

Shawn's face instantly darkened with rage. "Christie's not here to protect you anymore. I'll cripple you in a heartbeat!"

He signaled, and the Fields family's bodyguards started moving toward Andrew.

Just then, a cold voice cut through the tension. "My, what a temper. What an impressive show of force. How dare you threaten my man."

Lauren approached with an imposing presence, wearing an exquisite red gown. She was accompanied by Eunice and the Rhodes family's top bodyguards. Her hair was elegantly styled in an updo, accentuating her long neck and flawlessly beautiful face.

She was breathtakingly stunning.

Shawn stared at Lauren, almost drooling. Another gorgeous woman had entered the scene, and he was mesmerized.

"Miss, w-what did you say?" he stammered.

Lauren linked her arm with Andrew's and smiled sweetly. "I said, he's my man. Is that clear enough for you?"

Shawn snapped out of his trance, burning with jealousy. This loser seemed to have incredible luck with women. He could not believe Andrew had already snagged such beauty right after breaking up with Christina.

It just seemed so unfair.

"Beautiful lady, here's some advice—this guy's a deadbeat, a gold-digger. With your looks, he's not even fit to run errands for you!"

Irene chimed in, "Sweetie, I don't know who you are, but be careful. This guy's a loser. He used to mooch off my daughter. You'd better stay away from him before he tricks you too!"

Lauren ignored them both and turned her gaze to Christina, flashing a seductive smile. Her sharp intuition immediately sensed that Andrew had a history with this woman.

Christina met Lauren's gaze with an icy stare. The tension between the two women was palpable.

"Andy, aren't you going to introduce me to this lovely lady who seems to know you so well?" Lauren asked Andrew teasingly, her tone deliberately provocative.

Andrew felt a headache coming on. He had not expected these two women to meet, let alone for Lauren to start calling him "Andy" so casually. This woman was clearly stirring up trouble.

"This is the famous Ice Queen of Stevens Corporation," Andrew said with a hint of sarcasm. "Also known as Ms. Christina Stevens, the one everyone's talking about—the woman who dumped me."

Lauren laughed dramatically. "Oh, so you're Ms. Stevens! No wonder you're so beautiful. I must thank you, Ms. Stevens. If you hadn't let Andy go, he and I might never have found happiness together!"

Her words ignited Christina's fury.
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Komen (74)
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Pax
Captivating read.
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simiyu george mukhwana
interesting story
goodnovel comment avatar
Albert Murove
absolutely engaging n amaizing
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  • Rising from the Ashes   Chapter 9

    Christina stared coldly at Andrew, her eyes filled with disappointment, anger, and a hint of jealousy that she did not even realize. "Andrew, I can't believe you found someone new so quickly after we ended things," she said bitterly. "How foolish of me to feel guilty all this time. I guess I was just fooling myself!" Andrew shot back, "When it comes to moving on quickly, I could never match your efficiency, Ms. Stevens!" "You… Fine, you win. I can't argue with you anymore," Christina stammered, at a loss for words. Lauren's beauty, curvaceous figure, and commanding presence all made Christina feel incredibly insecure. If the woman by Andrew's side had been plain or unremarkable, she might have brushed it off. Yet, Lauren was different—she posed a real threat. This woman did not fall short in any aspect compared to Christina. She even surpassed her in some ways, like her more prominent cleavage. Lauren was the complete package, oozing charm and sex appeal. Shawn's lewd stare

  • Rising from the Ashes   Chapter 10

    On the other side of the hall, Lauren waved Eunice over. "Go and donate 3 million dollars in Dr. Lloyd's name," she instructed. Eunice was stunned. While the Rhodes family was indeed wealthy, she thought Lauren should not be so reckless with her expenses. "Miss, isn't that a bit excessive?" Lauren smiled haughtily. "What's wrong with donating 3 million for the man I've got my eye on? Christina may not appreciate him, but I'm not foolish enough to let such a treasure slip through my fingers." She held a file containing information about Stevens Corporation. In just a few short years, the company had transformed from a failing factory into Jayrodale's publicly traded powerhouse. With that, Christina's net worth had skyrocketed to an astounding 150 million dollars. Interestingly, many aspects of Stevens Corporation's rise seemed suspicious, as if someone had been pulling strings behind the scenes. The company's sudden success coincided perfectly with Andrew and Christina's three

  • Rising from the Ashes   Chapter 11

    "Mr. Andrew Lloyd, donating 15 million!" Shawn jumped up as if his seat was on fire. "I request a verification. Is there someone else here with the same name?" Irene paced anxiously, unable to contain her agitation. "It must be a mistake. Andrew's a nobody. He might scrape together a few hundred dollars for charity, but 15 million? He couldn't earn that in several lifetimes!"Amidst the chaos, Andrew remained calm, seated in his spot with an unreadable expression. The host promptly investigated Shawn's request and announced the results."I apologize, ladies and gentlemen, but we only have one Mr. Andrew Lloyd present. There's no name confusion. Now, I'm pleased to declare that Mr. Lloyd has secured the rights to purchase the land for South City Orphanage. Congratulations, Mr. Lloyd!"Christina's face drained of color as the reality sank in. This outcome was beyond her wildest imagination. Meanwhile, Lauren's eyes sparkled as she stared at Andrew in the corner. This unassuming man w

  • Rising from the Ashes   Chapter 12

    The hostile blond guy was none other than Christina's good-for-nothing brother, Leroy Stevens. "Couldn't win fair and square, so you're resorting to threats?" Andrew's expression remained blank, completely unfazed by the knife in Leroy's hand. Irene snarled, "Andrew, don't forget, you're nothing without Christie. She gave you everything for three years. How dare you do this to her!" Andrew laughed at their audacity, his tone full of mockery. "You should be asking what I gave her during those three years, not the other way around." "Bullshit!" Irene exploded. "You've been mooching off Christie. What could you possibly have given her? You've got nothing to your name, you shameless parasite!" Andrew scoffed, "Is that so? If I recall correctly, I negotiated several key contracts for Stevens Corporation. And wasn't I the one who bailed your deadbeat son out of jail? Your family seems to have lost all sense of decency." Irene, flushed with anger and embarrassment, "You ungrateful

  • Rising from the Ashes   Chapter 13

    Andrew replied calmly, "Oh well, it's not like they were much of use to him anyway." Nyla looked puzzled, not quite understanding his meaning. However, Andrew did not elaborate further. With his medical expertise, he had long ago diagnosed Philip's issues with impotence and premature ejaculation. Hence, his penis was practically useless. Suddenly, the office door burst open. Bernard stormed in with a group of hospital staff, his face turning ashen at the sight of Philip writhing on the floor and clutching his crotch. "Dr. Lloyd, as a medical professional, you've violated ethics by assaulting a colleague. Do you understand the consequences?" Bernard growled. A doctor examining Philip exclaimed, "This is bad, really bad!" Bernard's face paled. "What is it? Did this bastard kill my son?" The doctor shook his head. "No, Dr. Philip's just unconscious. But I'm afraid… his ability to have children may be permanently compromised." The room fell silent, shocked gazes filled with p

  • Rising from the Ashes   Chapter 14

    Francesca glanced at Andrew from behind her desk, irritation rising at his seemingly indifferent attitude. "Dr. Lloyd, don't you have anything to say for yourself? Or do you admit to Dr. Hackett's accusations and violation of hospital policy? If so, you can pack your things and leave this hospital. I don't condone unruly behaviors here." Andrew frowned. "Dr. Aicker, since you called us here, I assume you're already informed of the matter. Why ask questions you already know the answers to?" "You…" Francesca glared at Andrew, her temper flaring. Bernard seized the moment and chimed in, "Dr. Aicker, look at him! He has no humility or respect. He's nothing but a thug. I suggest we fire him immediately and blacklist him from the medical profession entirely!" Andrew replied coldly, "Bernard, you and Philip are the real disgrace to this profession. How could you lie through your teeth?" Bernard turned to Francesca, pleading, "Dr. Aicker, he's still unrepentant, insulting us even

  • Rising from the Ashes   Chapter 15

    News of Philip's dismissal spread like wildfire through the hospital, leaving staff in shock at the unexpected turn of events. "Serves him right! That creep's been harassing nurses for ages." "What an amazing news! It's about time someone stood up to the Hacketts. Dr. Lloyd's got guts!" Many were relieved Andrew had come out unscathed, while those who had hoped to see him go were baffled. They wondered how Bernard lost this battle, as it simply did not add up. After all, Andrew no longer had Christina's support, and he was nothing in their eyes. Some of the more imaginative male doctors exchanged knowing glances, wondering if Andrew had somehow charmed Francesca too. If so, they would never forgive him for snagging such a prize. On the other hand, Nyla's colleagues could not resist teasing her. "Dr. Lloyd played the hero for you, Nyla. Shouldn't you show your appreciation?" "That's right, Nyla! You're the belle of our hospital, and I think the only one who could sweep y

  • Rising from the Ashes   Chapter 16

    At that moment, Andrew received a call from Marvin. "Mr. Lloyd, Christina wants that orphanage property. Should we give it to her?" Marvin asked. Andrew thought for a moment before replying, "Handle it as you see fit. But given our history, if Stevens Corporation makes a decent offer, let them have it." Marvin sighed, "I knew you still had a soft spot for that woman. Alright, I guess Stevens Corporation is getting a good deal." Soon after, Christina received news that Wealthroller Investments had agreed to let Stevens Corporation develop the property. She was overwhelmed by the sudden turn of events and could hardly believe it. "Mr. Yates finally changed his mind?" The staff who delivered the message explained, "Ms. Stevens, your reputation as Jayrodale's rising business star precedes you. To be frank, Mr. Yates received a phone call and immediately agreed to give it to you." Christina was stunned when he heard that one phone call had changed Marvin's mind. She turned to

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  • Rising from the Ashes   Chapter 968

    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

  • Rising from the Ashes   Chapter 967

    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

  • Rising from the Ashes   Chapter 966

    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

  • Rising from the Ashes   Chapter 965

    Quinton was in disbelief, and his face twisted with rage, veins bulging at his temples as if they were about to burst. The humiliation, the burning fury, and the sheer frustration had his whole body trembling. He had just been insulted—him, the heir of the Wrights, who came to Jayrodale bringing both power and wealth, and now a bunch of low-level underground thugs had just cursed him in front of everyone. Christina's expression was conflicted as she said calmly, "Mr. Wright, please calm down. I think you need to understand the current situation in Jayrodale." Quinton snapped, "What damn situation? If it weren't for my self-control, those cowards—those worthless losers—would've all been dead where they sat!" His face had darkened so much that it looked like a thunderstorm was about to roll in. Everyone he had summoned had either abandoned him or turned on him. The grand effect he envisioned—rallying everyone to crush Andrew—was unraveling fast. Christina spoke firmly, "Mr. Wri

  • Rising from the Ashes   Chapter 964

    Quinton exploded, slamming the table. "Is this the best the Weller family can do?" He sneered, "Mr. Weller, you're supposed to be young and capable, right? You landed the head position at such a young age, and this is all the guts you've got?" What angered Quinton the most was Harvey's next response. Harvey just nodded and admitted bluntly, "You're right, Mr. Wright. I really do lack guts and boldness." Now Quinton was seething with rage. He shouted, "I invited you all here out of goodwill, giving you the chance to get rich, and this is how you repay me?" His gaze swept across the room, his expression turning sharp and threatening. These guys were supposed to be the top dogs of Jayrodale. With this many major figures in the room, how was it possible that not even one of them had the spine to act? In Quinton's mind, Andrew was just the owner of a local apothecary. All it would take was a united public statement, and Moonlit Apothecary would be done for in Jayrodale. Then,

  • Rising from the Ashes   Chapter 963

    Quinton had painted himself as the poor victim, skillfully drawing out sympathy from the room. He had gone all in, dangling a massive investment as bait. He was convinced the power players of Jayrodale would be fired up, rally to his side, and join forces to crush Andrew completely. The more he thought about it, the more impressed he was with himself. After all, using others to do the dirty work and riding the wave of influence was downright masterful. Andrew thought he was untouchable, clinging to those two miracle medicines like a dragon hoarding treasure. However, once Quinton boxed him into a corner, left him begging for air, and drained every last drop of business out of him, he would see Andrew on his knees, pleading for mercy from the Wrights, just for a sip of water. The fantasy alone made Quinton grin smugly. He half-expected applause at that moment, maybe some shouting, some outrage, someone grabbing their team and storming off to Moonlit Apothecary to cause trouble.

  • Rising from the Ashes   Chapter 962

    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!"

  • Rising from the Ashes   Chapter 961

    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,

  • Rising from the Ashes   Chapter 960

    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

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