Rising from the Ashes (Andrew) novel Chapter 1793

Leslie did not leave, looking like she was waiting for someone.

Before long, Ryder arrived with about five bodyguards behind him. It was an impressive entourage that befitted the head of the Ulrich family.

Leslie stood up with a bright smile. "Ryder, you're here! Come, have a seat!"

Ryder grunted and sat down casually. He said matter-of-factly, "Did you ask me out for something specific? I've been pretty busy taking over the family business lately, so if it's nothing urgent, I'll head out."

Leslie playfully scolded him. "Even with all that going on, you should still make time to relax! I already ordered drinks, and they'll be here soon. I just wanted to sit down and talk with you tonight."

Ryder was not particularly interested and said flatly, "Wow, now that's unexpected. You never used to be so warm to me before, let alone invite me out for drinks. Honestly, this sudden friendliness kind of throws me off."

Leslie looked a little awkward and let out a dry laugh. "Oh, come on! Don't say that. Back in the military, you know how the General was. She didn't like us goofing off. But this is a bar, and the vibe is totally different. Of course, I'm being nicer!

"Besides, our drinks just arrived. Believe it or not, this is my first time having drinks with a guy in public."

She gave him a shy little smile as she spoke. Unfortunately, Ryder was not taking the bait.

Meanwhile, upstairs in the booth on the second floor, Andrew and his three ladies were leaning over the glass railing, watching the interaction below with great interest.

"Didn't she used to look down on Ryder?" Aspen asked with a puzzled look. "Now she's acting all sweet on him?"

Aspen giggled and shook her head. "That's not how it works. Even if Ryder doesn't worship her like before, all Leslie has to do is act a little vulnerable. Throw in a few subtle glances full of admiration or longing, and maybe toss in some push-and-pull tactics, wear something a little revealing, and make 'accidental' physical contact.

"And just like that, the old doormat instincts come flooding back. Before you know it, she's got him wrapped around her finger."

Just as she finished speaking, they watched Leslie dabbing at her eyes like she was about to cry. She looked pitiful and fragile, giving Ryder a wounded look like he had wronged her somehow.

Ryder, clearly flustered, leaned in to comfort her.

Leslie took full advantage of the moment, leaning on his shoulder, her chest brushing against his arm ever so suggestively.