Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren)

Everyone thought Andrew was beyond mad and reckless—he was downright unstoppable. Even with Kenny and the insurmountable force of the Driscoll family looming over him, he still dared to beat Michael to a pulp.

Even Tiana could not help but suck in a sharp breath. Unable to hold back any longer, he shouted, "Stop, Andrew! If you kill him, you won't just destroy yourself— you'll drag Lauren down with you!"

She shot to her feet, her voice laced with fury.

Andrew did not even spare her a glance. His voice was cold. "Relax. I take full responsibility for my actions. Kenny, the entire Rhodes family, and even the Driscoll family—if any of them think they can control me, they can give it a try." Michael lay sprawled on the floor, his bloodshot eyes locked onto Andrew. His breath was shallow and ragged as he mumbled, "Y-You're doomed..."

Andrew did not bother responding and simply kicked Michael square in the face.

Michael's eyes rolled back, and his body went completely limp. No one could tell whether he was dead or just unconscious.

Andrew's tone was indifferent. "If you're going to act like you're dead, at least be quiet."

Tiana's face turned ghostly pale. Furious, she shouted, "Andrew, you're digging your own grave! Run! Run for your life while you still can! This is my last warning if you don't, no one will be able to save you!"

Lauren grabbed Andrew's arm, her voice urgent. "Dr. Lloyd, Michael's death will trigger Uncle Kenny's wrath. He has the backing of the Golding family, and he'll hunt you down. Come with me-we need to leave Jayrodale now and lay low until this blows over!"

She tightened her grip on his arm, trying to pull him away.

Tiana's voice turned icy. "Andrew can run, but Lauren-you're not going anywhere. Jerry, take Lauren back to Rhodes residence now!"

Jerry stepped forward without hesitation, prying Lauren away from Andrew.

Andrew's gaze darkened.

Tiana's voice cut through the tension like a blade. "Andrew, if your truly love Lauren and care about her, don't drag her into this disaster with you! Don't force her into danger just because of your stubborn pride!" noveldrama

Marcus's scalp prickled with unease. "Mr. Lloyd, listen to her-Ms. Rhodes cannot go with you. I've dealt with Kenny before. If Jameson is a true gentleman, then Kenny is the complete opposite-a ruthles conniving bastard who stops at nothing to get what he wants. If Ms. Rhodes follows you, she will suffer for it."

Lauren struggled, her face red with anger. "Let me go, Jerry! No matter what, I'm staying with Dr. Lloyd!"

Jerry's patience snapped. "Miss, open your eyes! Do you really not see the situation you're in? If you leave with Andrew, you'll doom both of you! If you stay behind, he might still have a chance to escape. But if you go with him, you'll only be a burden!"

Lauren's face turned stark white, and she hesitated.

Andrew gave her a reassuring smile. "Lauren, listen to your mother and Jerry—go back. Don't worry, I'm not running. I have no reason to. I'll handle this mess first. Then, I'll come find you."

Tears welled up in Lauren's eyes. She knew he was only saying that to comfort her.

In reality, once Kenny unleashed the Golding family, there would not be anyone left in Jayrodale to stop them. Not even the underground forces could stand against one of The Five Apex Families of Blumedale.

Even Jayrodale's wealthiest man, Marvin, would not be able to shield Andrew from this storm.

Tears streamed down Lauren's face as she choked out, "Dr. Lloyd, no matter what happens, I swear I'll stand by you. I'll beg my father. He will find a way to help you. You have to hold on!"