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
"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
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
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
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
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
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
"Alright, Ms. Rhodes, let's get down to business," Andrew said, slightly overwhelmed by Lauren's antics. Her every move was irresistible, and he could not handle it anymore. Lauren's flirtatious smile faded as she nodded, "Yes, let's talk business." "Fran, I believe Dr. Lloyd can treat your condition," Lauren stated confidently. Francesca glared at Andrew, scoffing, "Him? I've consulted top specialists nationwide and even visited renowned experts in Braundville. They all said it was complicated. What makes this small-time doctor think he's capable?" Andrew frowned, "If I'm not mistaken, the condition you're seeking treatment for is vaginal atresia, correct?" Francesca felt embarrassed at the mention of her condition. She turned to Lauren and asked, "Lauren, this was our secret. Why did you tell this jerk?" Lauren quickly defended herself, "Fran, I swear I never told him anything about your condition." Francesca was skeptical. "Then how does he know about my... condition?"
The elevator bell rang, and the doors slid open. Andrew stepped out with Shiloh, walking toward Lauren's office under the employees' curious gazes and polite greetings. On the way, they ran into Tiana. She eyed Shiloh up and down, her gaze carrying a hint of doubt as she asked, "Mr. Lloyd, is this the Master Shiloh you went to recruit?" Andrew nodded. "That's right, this is Ms. Shiloh Greene." He secretly let out a breath of relief—he had almost called her Master again. The last thing he wanted was to end up like Michael, who got slapped across the face for it. Tiana, exuding her usual cold and commanding presence, stepped closer to Shiloh and said, "Take off your veil. Let me see what you look like. If you're going to represent Rhodes Corporation, you can't be someone who doesn't look the part." Shiloh met her gaze calmly and replied, "Wearing a veil won't stop me from endorsing your products." Tiana's brows furrowed, her voice taking on a sharper edge. "Even so, I'd st
They chatted idly on the way back. Before long, they arrived in downtown Jayrodale, and Andrew drove straight to the Rhodes Corporation building, pulling up in front. A security guard jogged over with a big smile. "Mr. Lloyd, you're back!" As Andrew and Shiloh stepped out of the car, he handed over the keys to the guard and said, "Park it for me." The company's security guards practically worshiped Andrew now. Their respect for him was just as strong compared to Tiana's. "Of course, Mr. Lloyd, don't worry! I'll take good care of your car!" Just then, a weak knocking sound came from the trunk, along with what sounded like muffled cursing. However, with the noise of traffic all around, it was hard to make out. The security guard frowned and asked, "Uh… Mr. Lloyd, I think something's moving in the trunk." Andrew waved it off. "We picked up a wild boar on the way back. The kind that roams the mountains—mean as hell." The security guard's eyes widened. "A wild boar? Oh man,
From the moment Shiloh first mentioned she was over 80, Andrew had suspected she suffered from a rare condition—one commonly known as the "ageless syndrome". As the name suggested, those affected by it never aged beyond a certain point. Looking at Shiloh, even with her veil on, Andrew could tell she had likely stopped aging in her early 20s—still in the prime of youth. To the outside world, ageless syndrome sounded like a blessing—eternal youth. Yet, in reality, for many who suffered from it, it was a nightmare. Some stopped growing as infants, toddlers, or even newborns, forever trapped in a child's body. On the other hand, Shiloh was one of the lucky few—she had at least matured into adulthood before her aging had frozen. Nonetheless, the ageless syndrome was not as wonderful as it seemed. Certain conditions—cold, extreme heat, or even specific lunar phases—could trigger unbearable pain, or worse, episodes of mental instability. In Shiloh's case, she was not just dealing wi
The two Wellers enforcers exchanged uncertain glances, hesitation flickering in their eyes. "Even if she isn't a full-fledged martial king, she's definitely close—an elite martial artist at an unfathomable level. But something about this doesn't add up. Why would someone that powerful be hiding away in a rundown monastery in the Southern Highlands? "Not to mention, she was practically living in poverty. Someone of her caliber could easily dominate all of Jayrodale, if not the entire southern martial world. She should be one of the top three powerhouses, at the very least." Harvey sucked in a sharp breath. The next second, his jealousy exploded. He yelled, "Are you telling me that a martial king-level master just fell into Andrew's lap for free? Absolutely not! I don't care if I have to throw everything the Wellers have into it—I need to bring Shiloh into our ranks!" One of the enforcers shook his head and sighed. "Mr. Weller, if you don't want to die young, you'd best drop t
Nonetheless, for the Wellers, their rise to power was the only thing that mattered. Harvey might have been a disgraceful excuse for a leader, but he was still the head of the family. One of the elder enforcers spoke in a cold voice. "Andrew, you know too much. That leaves us with no choice—we have to take you out." Andrew smirked. "Of course you do. That way, no one will ever know just how filthy the Wellers' secrets really are, right?" The two Wellers elders roared in unison, "Arrogant fool! Die!" Andrew casually lifted his foot and kicked Michael straight into them, sending him flying toward the two elders. One of the enforcers scoffed, effortlessly swinging a palm and smacking Michael aside like a ragdoll. His body went flying, landing in a heap—his fate unknown. Andrew's face turned cold. "Shiloh, get in the car. I'll handle the Wellers, and then we'll head back to Jayrodale." However, Shiloh stood her ground, completely unfazed. "No need for that. They came here to tak
Andrew led Shiloh toward the car, with Michael trailing behind. As they walked, Shiloh turned her head for one last look at the worn-down monastery. Her voice was soft as she mumbled, "Perhaps I won't be coming back here again." Andrew chuckled. "If you ever decide to return, I can have the entire place renovated for you. I'll get a team to rebuild it, plant some trees and flowers, and turn it into a beautiful retreat—maybe even a landmark in Jayrodale." Shiloh shook her head. "No need. I have no attachment to this place." Michael, unable to hold back his curiosity, blurted, "Mas—Uh… Shiloh, can you take off your veil?" He had almost called her "Master" again. That would have earned him another slap for sure. Shiloh remained indifferent. "No one is allowed to see my face. Especially men. If any man sees my real face, I'll kill him." Michael frowned. "Seriously? Just one look, and you'd kill someone? What are you, the queen of some ancient empire?" Shiloh cast him a col
Shiloh corrected him immediately. "Just call me Shiloh. I don't like being addressed in a way that makes me sound old. Also, while I once trained at Everglade Mountain, it was a temporary practice. "I never fully took vows—I'm merely a lay disciple, so you don't need to call me 'Master' or anything like that. And one more thing—I see myself as young. So don't call me by addresses that make me sound ancient. I won't remind you again!" Andrew chuckled and nodded. "Got it, Shiloh." He had never expected this woman to have quite a fiery temper. Then again, no woman liked being called old, so Andrew understood. Michael, on the other hand, was practically vibrating with excitement. He could not believe it—Andrew had actually secured an endorsement from the most respected wellness expert in Jayrodale. For Rhodes Corporation's pharmaceutical division, this was nothing short of a miracle. Eager to please, he grinned and stepped forward. "Master Shiloh, this way, please!" Andrew si
Shiloh's bright eyes flickered with surprise. "You noticed? No wonder Cedric speaks so highly of you, Mr. Lloyd. Your insight is truly remarkable. You're right—I do have a condition. That's why, despite being over 80, I don't look my age." Andrew nodded but did not press further. That was her personal business, and prying any more would have been rude. Meanwhile, Aspen and Christina were fuming. Aspen stepped forward, blocking their path. "Master Shiloh, I just don't understand. Why would you choose to leave with Andrew over a mere 20 million?" Christina gritted her teeth. "Master Shiloh, we already told you—we're willing to offer you a better price. Why won't you accept our offer?" Shiloh's expression remained calm. "It's simple. Mr. Lloyd understands what I actually need, unlike you all, who keep making empty promises without any real grasp of my practice. But most importantly, Cedric told me that Mr. Lloyd is a remarkable physician. So I thought, perhaps he might be able t
Shiloh's voice remained calm as she said, "Neither the Wellers nor the Stevens have grasped what I truly practice. You are all too fixated on appearances." Christina could not help but interject, "Master Shiloh, even if you need money and believe that your teachings should be grounded in reality, then why not come to Stevens Corporation? We're willing to offer an even higher price." Aspen, growing anxious, quickly added, "Master Shiloh, you and I go way back! Just come to the Stevens instead. If it's money you want, Christie and I are willing to offer 50 million—no, 80 million!" However, Shiloh shook her head. "This isn't about money." Aspen and Christina instantly froze. They had refrained from mentioning money earlier, yet Shiloh had chosen to follow Andrew, who had offered payment. But now, when they were willing to pay even more, she suddenly claimed it was not about the money? Their minds felt like they were about to split apart. Why was a revered figure like Shiloh fa