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