Andrew froze, startled by Lauren's serious tone. Looking at her earnest expression, he seemed to understand something deeper.

"Target you? Someone must've told you that. But, Lauren, what do you think?" Andrew replied with a faint smile, offering no further explanation.

Lauren shook her head firmly. "I don't believe it. That's why I'm asking you directly."

Andrew's expression turned cold. "I don't care who's feeding you these ideas. I only want to tell you one thing—I came to Rhodes Corporation for one reason: you. There are no schemes, no ulterior motives, no hidden agendas. I'm here because I see you as my friend."

Without warning, Lauren threw herself into his arms, catching Andrew completely off guard. A faint floral fragrance swept over him. In the next moment, her soft, delicate body pressed against his, filling his embrace entirely.

Andrew instinctively wrapped his arms around her, startled. "Lauren, you—"

She tilted her head back, her eyes glistening with unshed tea