"But now, you're my woman, Lauren, and I won't let you be treated unfairly like this," Andrew declared firmly.

Lauren's eyes brimmed with tears, and she suddenly felt an overwhelming urge to cry. "Dr. Lloyd, you're so kind."

Without warning, she hugged Andrew tightly.

Andrew felt increasingly uneasy. Was Tiana's presence truly such a significant threat to Lauren? He had never seen Lauren cry before.

A discreet cough came from behind them. Lauren quickly let go of Andrew, wiped her tears in a hurry, and shot him a shy glare.

Andrew turned around, completely unbothered, and smiled. "Oh, my apologies, Mr. Chapman. I didn't realize you were here."

Marcus scratched his nose and chuckled awkwardly. "It's fine. I should be the one apologizing for interrupting Ms. Rhodes and Mr. Lloyd's moment."

Andrew waved a hand. "No worries. I take it you're here to discuss the Pharmaceutical Division?"

Marcus nodded solemnly. "Yes, Mr. Lloyd. I truly owe both you and Ms. Rhodes a debt of g