Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren)

Kevin introduced himself, "Dr. Lloyd, I'm Kevin, head of the Wrights family. I was hoping to introduce myself through my daughter, Yara."

Given Kevin's polite tone and out of respect for Yara, Andrew did not put on a cold face right away.noveldrama

He stepped out of the car with a smile. "Mr. Wright. Nice to meet you. But if we're just making introductions, then we've already met. And now, I'm going home. Take care."

Andrew's dismissive tone toward one of the Five Apex Family patriarchs stunned Kevin a little. He did not feel insulted-no, what he felt was dread.

Kevin thought, 'Damn it. The Wrights' status really doesn't mean anything to this kid anymore.'

However, Quinton was not nearly as self-aware. He chimed in gloomily. "Andrew, what's with the attitude? Do you even know what kind of power our family holds in Blumedale?"

Andrew sneered. "Power? I didn't even give a damn about Rafael. What makes you think the Wrights are more important than the Driscolls?"

Quinton was stunned. "Y-You ignored Mr. Driscoll? Andrew, if you've crossed him, you're dead. You've got no idea what you're in for!"

Andrew's eyes swept to Kevin, and he said slowly, "Mr. Wright, your son talks more than you do. He's loud and arrogant. Look at how he's already threatening me! I'm shaking in my boots."

The corner of Kevin's lips twitched slightly. As if Andrew would ever be scared- no one would buy that.

Without another word, he slapped Quinton hard across the face. "You little brat! Who the hell gave you the right to act up in front of Dr. Lloyd? Now get your ass over here and greet your godfather!"

Quinton's glare could have burned through steel, but Kevin did not care.

Andrew raised a hand. "Hold on, Mr. Wright. What did you just say? Godfather?"

Kevin chuckled. "That's right, Dr. Lloyd. I plan to become sworn brothers with you. Which means my good-for-nothing son here becomes your son too. Once we're bound, our families become one. Your business becomes our business. And if anything threatens you, the Wrights will fight to the death at your side."

Andrew felt his head spin. The generational mess this would create was absurd.

He was about to decline when Yara

about to

slid up beside him with a sugary voice. "Mr. Lloyd, my father came with sincere intentions. It's just. that... this isn't really the place for a proper talk. Why don't we go somewhere private? Share a meal while we chat?"

Kevin immediately chimed in, "Yes, that's right! Andy, let's move somewhere quiet.

If you like, we can even throw a banquet-invite all of Blumedale's elites to witness our brotherhood!"

Andrew did not budge-until Yara leaned in, her curves brushing against his arm a not-so-subtle rub. He sighed and waved Aspen and Francesca off. "You two head back first."

Then, he followed the Wrights' entourage to one of their family-owned restaurants.

Once alone with Yara in a side room, his tone shifted cold. "Ms. Wright, you'd better give me a real explanation. Because no matter how much you tease or flirt, I'm not the kind of man who gets distracted by a pretty face."

Yara pouted, as if hurt. "Mr. Lloyd, please hear me out. I genuinely believe that forming a brotherhood with my father is a brilliant move. Think about it-the connection gives you another ally in Blumedale."

Andrew smirked faintly. "Sounds lovely... but let's be honest. You're not doing this for unity. You want me to help you become the next head of the Wrights and crush Quinton."

Even though her intention was exposed, Yara remained calm, just blushing slightly. Then, she walked slowly toward him, heels clicking softly, and gently grabbed Andrew's hand.

He frowned. "What are you doing?"

Yara bit her lip and slid his hand down into her blouse. "Mr. Lloyd, help me take the Wrights. Crush Quinton, and the entire family will be mine, while I become yours. I think..... that's a deal that benefits both of us, don't you?"

Feeling the soft, warm curves beneath his palm, Andrew could not help but glance

at her. "Ms. Wright... didn't think you were this much of a slut."

The bluntness nearly broke Yara. Her face flushed beet red, half from

shame, half from fury. She he

her teeth and whispered, voice. shaking, "Mr. Lloyd, if you're not interested... then would you kindly stop squeezing?"

She was breathless, legs weak, eyes hazy.