Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren)

They found a high-end private dining spot, and Andrew even went out of his way to pick up Lauren himself. His attentiveness and effort left Jameson thoroughly impressed

"Andrew, my boy, my daughter has great taste! You're a real catch!" Jameson exclaimed after a couple of glasses of whiskey, already showering Andrew with praise.

Andrew stood up, refilling Jameson's glass with a smile. “Mr. Rhodes, you're too kind. I'm just doing what I should. Mrs. Rhodes, please try this dish. Lauren and I come here often-it's amazing!"

He did not stop at Jameson, making sure to serve Tiana as well, piling her plate high with food.

However, Tiana remained indifferent, her tone cold. "No need, I can serve myself.".

Andrew pretended not to hear her and continued placing food on her plate. "Mrs. Rhodes, you have to try this butter-poached halibut with white wine sauce. This soup is great for your stomach. Oh, and these roasted Brussels sprouts-they're fresh and flavorful. They suit your refined taste perfectly!"

Before she knew it, her plate was piled so high with food that she had no idea where to start. Tiana clenched her jaw, realizing Andrew was putting on this whole performance for Jameson.

Sure enough, Jameson, now a few drinks in, praised him endlessly. "A true gentleman-absolutely a perfect man in every way! Tiana, our daughter is going to have a blessed life with him!"

Tiana was fuming. Was serving some food and pouring drinks really all it took to be a perfect man? 1

Meanwhile, Lauren and Francesca sat quietly, eating their food without commenting. But in reality, both of them kept stealing glances at Andrew, secretly enjoying the show

By the time Jameson had downed another few glasses, his face was flushed red, and he was already treating Andrew like a long-lost brother.noveldrama

The so-called elegant patriarch of the Rhodes family was now laughing with an arm slung over Andrew's shoulder, being all friendly without any pretense. At this, both Lauren and Francesca could not hold back their laughter any longer.

Andrew was really something else.

Tiana, on the other hand, found the whole scene utterly humiliating. Her husband, the head of the Rhodes family, had been completely won over in just a few drinks.

To make things worse, he was even treating Andrew like a friend, not a junior. Her face burned with embarrassment.

She wanted to put Andrew in his place, but Jameson, her so-called "teammate", had completely thrown off her strategy.

"Andrew, that settles it!" Jameson, now thoroughly drunk, threw an arm around Andrew's shoulder and slurred, I fully support you and Lauren!”

Andrew, his own face slightly flushed, pretended to be tipsy. "You said it, Mr. Rhodes... That's a promise! No backing out now!"

Jameson raised his glass and swore, "Of course, I won't go back on my word! If I do, may Tiana turn into the meanest, nastiest old hag on earth and never let me have a moment of peace!"

Andrew downed his drink in one gulp and grinned. "Gotta respect a man who dares to say something like that!"

Jameson slammed his glass down and waved a hand grandl. "What's there to be afraid of? I'm the head of the Rhodes family! In my house, my word is lawl"

Andrew felt completely satisfied as he glanced over at Tiana. The so-called "Iron Lady" looked like she was about to explode, her face turning an ugly shade of red as she barely held back her rage.

Judging by her expression, she would not hold back much longer.

"Andrew, enough is enough," Tiana finally snapped, her voice cold and

sharp. Jameson can't hold his liquor, and he's already talking nonsense. I think it's time we call it a night."

Andrew sighed regretfully and turned to Jameson. "Well, I suppose that's it for tonight. A shame,

really-we were just getting along.so well. We could've had a few more

drinks, but since Mrs. Rhodes insists, I suppose we have no choice!"