Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren)

Yara let out a furious laugh. "Andrew, you really are an arrogant bastard! Fine. If you think so little of me, I'll find someone else. You're not the only player in town."

Andrew waved a hand. "Be my guest."

"You—" Yara's chest heaved with rage, but she was too calculating to let her anger show fully. With one last icy glare, she turned on her heels and stormed out, her stilettos clicking sharply against the floor.

She had come here looking down on him-some nobody from Jayrodale who'd clawed his way into Blumedale through sheer luck and stubbornness. In her eyes, he was still just an insect. Her so-called "partnership" had always been a ploy to use him.

However, Andrew had not taken the bait. Worse, he had dismissed her as if she were beneath his notice.

What a bastard.

Aspen scowled as the door slammed. "Was pissing her off really necessary? If she'd actually worked with us, her resources alone would've been worth it-forget about Quinton's backing."

Andrew sipped his tea. "Relax. She'll be back."

"Back?" Aspen snorted. "You think those high-society types swallow their pride that easily?"

"She's got pride," Andrew said, smirking. "But mine's ten times bigger. That woman's ruthless and smart. Trust me, she'll return."

No sooner had he spoken than the door flew open. Yara strode back in, her long legs eating up the distance. This time, she slammed something onto the table in front of Andrew.

"I said I came in good faith, Mr. Lloyd. You doubted me. You insulted me. So tell me, do I have your attention now?"

Andrew set down his cup. Aspen leaned in first and blanched.

"Ms. Wright, is this..."

Yara's face was rigid, but a tremor in her jaw betrayed her.noveldrama

Andrew did not need to look to know what she was forcing down.

He whistled. "Using your own nudes as collateral? Now that's what I call commitment."

"Are we clear?" she hissed.

Andrew grinned. "Crystal. But we're still not working together."

Yara's control shattered. "You're fucking with me?"

"Wouldn't dream of it," Andrew said, spreading his hands. "Even if I wanted to, you'd never allow

right?" tel

"You son of a bitch!" Her elegant poise evaporated. "You looked at those photos!"

"You

force you to do it!" Andrew said,

unfazed. "But hey-thanks for 1

generosity."

Even Aspen gaped. Goodness. How is he this shameless?'

Yara's voice dropped to a lethal

You just violated me,

Andrew. Either you partner wil net

me,

or burn your world to the ground."