"Andrew, my mom didn't give you a hard time, did she?" Lauren asked as they stepped into the Rhodes residence's front parlor.

She had noticed right away that Andrew did not look so great.

"It's fine. Your mother was… gracious enough," Andrew said with a small smile.

There was no need to bring up Tiana's moment of madness—it was better buried.

Jameson chuckled. "Andy, sorry to trouble you again! But today wasn't just about getting your help with her condition."

Lauren beamed. "That's right, Andrew. Now that you're part of the family, you're not an outsider anymore. So, Dad planned a little family dinner. We thought we'd introduce you to some people too, help you make some connections around Blumedale."

Jameson added, "Exactly! And I heard from Lauren that you've been looking for some rare medicinal herbs. Well, turns out, I know some folks who might be holding on to a few."

Andrew nodded thoughtfully. "I am looking for rare herbs, that's true. But as for opening doors, Mr.