Lauren hesitated for a moment before speaking. "Since you overheard it, I might as well tell you everything. Joe is the young master of Blumedale's Driscoll family. He's also the most outstanding talent among their generation." She explained, "The Rhodes family originated from Jayrodale but moved to Blumedale to expand. I've only met Joe twice, and after that, he declared he was in love with me and swore he would marry me no matter what. "This news spread quickly within Blumedale's social circles. Later, the Driscoll family formally came to the Rhodes family to propose marriage." Lauren's voice faltered slightly as her expression dimmed for a moment. "It was absurd to me, but my parents and the elders didn't object at all. They were overjoyed and accepted the proposal without hesitation." Andrew spoke softly, sensing her struggle. "So, you're caught in a tough spot, aren't you? On one side, there's me; on the other, there's your parents and your family. If you choose me, you'll

Andrew nodded thoughtfully and said, "It's not guaranteed that conflict will happen, but planning ahead is always smart. Here's what I propose—we allocate some operational funds from both West End and South City to procure a selection of rare medicinal herbs." Natasha raised a brow in surprise. "Medicinal herbs? What are you planning? Making more medicines?" Andrew chuckled and shook his head. "Not quite. I'm going to prepare a special solution to help warriors refine their bodies, strengthen their muscles, and boost their physical capabilities. This formula could significantly enhance the strength of your people in West End and South City." Natasha blinked in shock before her eyes lit up with excitement. "Wait a second! Are you talking about the kind of concoction that only elite families use to train their personal guards?" "Something like that," Andrew said calmly. "Except mine will be even more effective than what those upper-class families use." Natasha practically glowe

With a single strike of his bare hand, Andrew shattered the marble table into pieces. Both underground leaders, Natasha and Dylan, froze as their eyes widened in shock. The thought of that level of force hitting a human body was terrifying—organs would be crushed on impact. Even Natasha, who was slightly stronger than Dylan, felt a nervous tension building in her chest. Andrew's display of power far surpassed her capabilities, and the fear coursing through her was palpable. Dylan, on the other hand, could barely maintain his composure. He knew that if Andrew truly wanted to discipline him, he would be shaking in his boots. "What's wrong with you two? Are you part monkey, needing to fight whenever you meet? Or maybe you're like dogs—biting each other just to feel better?" Andrew sneered coldly, his gaze sharp. Dylan remained silent, too scared to speak. Natasha, however, quickly adopted a submissive tone. "Darling, don't be mad. I know I was wrong." Andrew gave her a frosty l

Just then, another message from Francesca came through. [Andrew, I want to sleep with you!] She was not being coy anymore—just cutting straight to the point. Andrew sighed and replied with two simple words, [Goodnight, Fran.] Yet, Francesca was not giving up so easily. [I can't sleep. Talk to me for a bit!] Andrew chose to ignore the message, knowing full well how dangerous late-night conversations with her could be. If he responded, there was a good chance she would show up at his place. And if that happened, he was not sure how much temptation he could resist. Just then, another message popped up. [Andrew, you jerk! What's with the silent treatment? Are you really gonna ditch me after getting what you wanted?] Francesca texted, clearly annoyed. Andrew groaned and typed back quickly. [Fran, it's not what you think!] [Oh, please,] she retorted. [I may have been a bit out of it that night, but my body doesn't lie. You took my virginity, Andrew! You stole my first time!]

"I'm just here for a massage," Andrew said casually. "And you'd better watch yourself. Even Harvey knows better than to mess with me now." He shot Dexter a brief glance before continuing down the hall. Dexter, with an Eastonia girl on each arm, chuckled mockingly. "Oh, come on, Andrew. Do you really expect me to believe you're just here for a massage? We're both men, after all." "And Harvey's the head of the Weller family now. If anyone should be keeping their head down, it's you, not me." Dexter sneered, annoyed that Andrew did not even spare him a proper look. Andrew did not break his stride. "I'm in a good mood today, so I'll let this slide. But if you keep running your mouth, I'll make sure you experience the taste of swallowing your own teeth." Dexter's face darkened as he watched Andrew disappear around the corner. The nerve of that bastard! Once, Dexter had been on top of the social hierarchy as one of Jayrodale's Four Most Eligible Bachelors. Yet, Andrew—a man he had