Rising from the Ashes (Andrew) novel Chapter 17

Chapter 17 Alright , Ms.

Rhodes , lets get down to business , Andrew said , slightly overwhelmed by Laurens antics .

Her every move was irresistible , and he could not handle it anymore .

Laurens flirtatious smile faded as she nodded , Yes , lets talk business .

Fran , I believe Dr.

Lloyd can treat your condition , Lauren stated confidently .

Francesca glared at Andrew , scoffing , Him ? Ive consulted top specialists nationwide and even visited renowned experts in Braundville .

They all said it was complicated .

What makes this small time doctor think hes capable ? Andrew frowned , If Im not mistaken , the condition youre seeking treatment for is vaginal atresia , correct ? Francesca felt embarrassed at the mention of her condition .

She turned to Lauren and asked , Lauren , this was our secret .

Why did you tell this jerk ? Lauren quickly defended herself , Fran , I swear I never told him anything about your condition .

Francesca was skeptical .

Then how does he know about my … condition ? Andrew calmly replied , Not only do I know about your vaginal atresia , but Im also aware that youve been experiencing insomnia , hormonal imbalances , frequent chest tightness , and shortness of breath .

These are dangerous symptoms that could lead to asphyxiation .

Francesca was truly puzzled .

Even if Lauren had revealed her personal medical condition , he had never told anyone about her other symptoms .

So , how did Andrew know about them ? Fine , lets say youre right .

How would you solve my chest tightness and shortness of breath ? Francesca challenged , feeling like a novice despite her impressive medical background .

Andrew explained , Your chest discomfort is unique .

Its primarily due to your well endowed chest causing excessive pressure , especially with your quick temper .

The solution is to control your anger and focus on relaxation techniques or undergo a breast reduction surgery to slightly decrease the … size .

Francesca fell silent , looking at Andrew with a hint of shock .

His diagnosis was identical to her grandfathers a renowned medical expert in Jayrodale and the founder of the Aicker familys medical legacy .

Lauren chuckled and chimed in , Frans assets are a treasure ! We cant reduce them .

Dr.

Lloyd , you dont know how comfy they are to sleep on .

Francesca was flustered and scolded her , Lauren , shut up ! She glared at Andrew and continued , Fine , Ill trust you this once .

Now , how would you treat my condition ? Andrew replied calmly , It might be challenging for others , but for me , its just a bit more complicated than usual .

+2 BONUS Francesca was already caught up in Andrews rhym and eagerly asked , And then ? Andrew shook his head , And then ? Thats it .

I could treat you , but given your poor attitude toward ine , youll need to show some genuine appreciation If you want my help .

Francesca was taken aback , then sneered , I knew It .

You had ulterior motives all along .

If you can really cure me , I suppose we could part with the Alcker familys rare Morlic Root .

Andrew shook his head , Im sorry , but I no longer need it .

And I wont be treating your condition .

Francesca was furious .

This guy was unbelievable suddenly changing his tune just like that .

Andrew spoke coldly , You should remember that youre the one asking for my help , not the other way around .

Does your attitude reflect someone seeking assistance ? With his reputation , many influential figures in Jayrodale would beg him to treat their illness if he spread the word that he was accepting patients .

Besides , Francesca was getting on his nerves .

Francescas chest heaved with anger , but she softened her tone .

Alright , I apologize for my earlier behavior .

Please dont hold it against me , Dr.

Lloyd .

Andrew nodded , Very well , Bring me the Morlic Root , and then Ill treat you .

Francesca flared up again .

Thats not how it works ! Shouldnt you treat me first , then receive payment ? Andrew glanced at her dismissively .

Im afraid my rules are the only rules that matter here .

Francesca fell silent , afraid of angering this petty jerk further .

On the other hand, Laurens eyes sparkled as she gazed at Andrew , a smile playing on her lips .

As expected of the man she had laid eyes on , he was indeed impressive .

Alright , now that thats settled , lets eat , Lauren chirped .

I stepped in to stop the animal , and he let loose on me .

Christina could not believe her ears .

Mom , did Andrew really try to hurt you too ? Irene immediately put on a sorrowful face .

I didnt want to tell you this to spare you the pain , but since Leroy mentioned it , I might as well come clean .

Its true .

Ever since your engagement to this monster fell through , hes been holding a grudge .

He not only attacked Leroy but was ready to come after me too .

Leroy nearly lost his life trying to protect me .

The doctor said he even has a concussion … As she spoke , Irene broke into tears , appearing utterly heartbroken .

Shawn quickly offered her a tissue , consoling her Mrs.

Stevens , please calm down .

Dont cry .

I cant believe this ungrateful bastard would dare to disrespect you like this .

Mark my words : even if Christies too soft hearted to deal with him , I wont stand for it .

One way or another , hes going to learn his lesson today .

The three of them continued , each adding fuel to the fire , igniting Christinas anger once again .

Indeed , even if Irene and Leroy had done something wrong , Andrew should not have laid a hand on Irene .

That was her mom , after all .

3/4 Chatter 17 +25 BONUS If Andrew could do that to her , what was to stop him from hitting Christina herself one day ? With this thought , Christina could no longer contain her fury .

She grabbed a glass of water from the table and threw it in Andrews face .

Youre a real bastard .

If anything serious happens to my mom or Leroy , I swear , youll pay for it in blood .