Ernest was genuinely baffled. He wondered where on earth this brazen kid came from, daring to challenge him over and over.

Andrew's eyes glinted coldly as he said calmly, "And what if I said I don't believe you?"

Ernest's lips twitched with rage as he turned to Natasha with a scowl. "Natasha, are you going to rein in this punk or not? If you won't, I'll call my men right now and make sure he's left for dead in the street!"

Natasha shot Andrew a quick glare. This troublemaker of hers was certainly bold, comparing Ernest to garbage and calling him old and washed up—it was a direct attack on his pride.

If Andrew wanted that rare medicinal herb so badly, it would make more sense to hold back and endure a little.

Forcing a smile, Natasha turned to Ernest and said, "Ernest, please don't be angry. Mr. Lloyd is young, and sometimes he can be a little impulsive. I'll apologize on his behalf."

She gave him a placating smile, trying to diffuse the tension. Yet, Ernest's frustration