Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren)

Michael stood at the front of the group, his face twisted with rage. "Andrew,

answer me was that viral video your doing? Were you the one who sabotaged me at the studio?

"You're going to clear my name today and restore my reputation, or I swear, this won't end well for you!"

Andrew glanced at him and let out a chuckle. "Mr. Rhodes, you're looking pretty good. I saw the video, and even I have to admit you sure know how to move your ass. And those hair on your chest and legs... damn, absolutely sensational."

Michael's life had turned into a nightmare. If he was not hiding at his company, he was locked up at home.

Going out in public was a disaster-he had to stay fully disguised, making sure not a single inch of his face was exposed.

The moment people recognized him, phones came out, cameras flashed, and strangers started whispering and pointing.

The worst part? Those outspoken middle-aged women and elderly folks who hated public indecency had no sense of boundaries. They would outright scream at him in public, calling him disgusting, perverted, shameless, and downright filthy.

As if that was not enough, some extra bold individuals even slid into his inbox asking if he was into men.

At this point, Michael had completely lost the ability to function as a normal person. He gritted his teeth and snarled, "Andrew, you cunning bastard! I'll ask you one last time-did you leak that video?"

He glared daggers at Andrew, ready to rip him apart.

Andrew shrugged. "And if I said no, would you believe me?"

Michael let out a cold laugh. "What do you think? Bane had already checked my system. That night, someone drugged me with an insanely strong aphrodisiac. And only you would pull something that twisted!"

Andrew put on a solemn expression. "Mr. Rhodes, you're deeply mistaken. When your video leaked, I was just as shocked as everyone else. In fact, I actually assumed you recorded it for personal entertainment and just accidentally uploaded it!"

Michael nearly blacked out from rage. He trembled violently, his voice exploding with fury. "Andrew, do you even hear yourself?! Do I look like the kind of guy who'd record something like that?!" 2

Andrew sighed dramatically. "That's the real mystery, isn't it? Who could've done such a thing? Because I watched that clip multiple times-just for investigative purposes, of course.noveldrama

"And if you're saying you were forced... I find that hard to believe. In fact, I'd say you were really into it. Twisting your hips, moaning-Mr. Rhodes, are you sure you weren't enjoying yourself?"

Michael's face turned a deep shade of red. He looked like he was about to either scream or pass out from sheer humiliation.

"That was "He gritted his teeth,

barely holding himself together. " was completely out of it! I wasn't aware of what I was doing! You really think I'd act like that on purpose?" en

Andrew smirked. "Who knows? Maybe you're just repressing your

true self. Maybe deep down, yet

the kind of guy who plays the straight-laced businessman by day but behind closed doors, you're a secret freak who just had to let loose."

Behind Michael, his own men struggled to contain their laughter. Truth be told, they had all seen the video too,

and it was hard not to think it was the most natural Michael had ever looked.

At this point, it did not even matter who had filmed it or how it had ended up online.

Michael knew he would not get a straight answer from Andrew. No matter how much he pressed, Andrew would never admit to anything.

Nonetheless, deep in his gut, he had no doubt-his reputation had been completely destroyed, and it was all because of Andrew.

The worst part? He could not prove it.

With no evidence, he had no choice but to swallow his fury, grit his teeth, and take

it. Still, he refused to accept defeat.

Stepping closer, Michael leaned in, his lips curling into a twisted grin. "Andrew, you and Lauren won't be laughing for long."

A wicked gleam flickered in his eyes as he whispered in Andrew's ear. "You probably don't know this yet,

but the Pharmaceutical Divisions et

sales are finally picking back up. Now, Thave completely defeated Lauren. When I take over as CEO, I'II make sure you pay for this!"