Chapter 288
Atlas‘ mistress was overjoyed, showering him with sweet words over the phone. “Thank you, baby! I’ll dress up beautifully for when you come Oh, I’ve bought several sets of sexy lingerie
-come rip them off me soon!”
Atlas laughed happily. “Don’t worry, baby. Once handle these important matters, I’ll keep you busy for days.”
After hanging up, Atlas felt deeply satisfied. His empire was rising, with Northern District at its peak, and soon, he would devour both Natasha’s West End and Dylan’s South City. Then, he would rule Jayrodale’s underworld as its sole king, crushing Marvin, the Wellers, and Rhodes beneath his feet.
Meanwhile, in Andrew’s office at Jayrodale General Hospital, Francesca walked in to find Andrew in a sharp suit.
“Do you have a meeting or event?” she asked with a smile behind her hand, admiring his tall, elegant figure.
“Neither–just attending à gala,” Andrew replied with a smile.
Francesca’s eyebrows furrowed with concern. “Are you going to a gala? Does Lauren know?”
“Ms. Rhodes doesn’t know, but why do you ask? Andrew responded, surprised.
“Are you really clueless or just pretending?” Francesca pouted. “You’re Lauren’s man now. Is it appropriate to go to a gala without her knowing?”
“Come on, Dr. Aicker,” Andrew said exasperatedly. “There’s nothing between Ms. Rhodes and me–don’t play matchmaker. Besides, I’m going for business, not what you think.”
Francesca’s face brightened. “Oh, I guess I overthought it. You’re still trustworthy, after all.”
She stepped closer to fix his tie, her subtle perfume reaching his nose as their faces drew near.
Andrew coughed and stepped back. “All set?”
Francesca smiled and complimented him, “Yes, and honestly, you’re quite handsome. Much more masculine and attractive than those so–called Jayrodale young masters like Harvey and Michael.”
Andrew rubbed his nose and smiled. “Remember how much you disliked me at first?”
Francesca blushed, embarrassed. “That was before I got to know you. Now we’re good friends, and I’ve realized you’re both capable and genuinely good. If only…”
“If only what?” Andrew asked.
“If Lauren hadn’t claimed you first, I might have made a move myself,” Francesca joked with
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Chapter 289
a twinkle in her eye.
Andrew shook his head with a smile. “You’re Dr. Alcker’s granddaughter and chief of this hospital. Your medical skills, family background, and education are outstanding, and you’ll surely find someone much better than me.”
Francesca’s eyes dimmed. “Is that so? If only that were true.”
After checking the time, Andrew said, “I should go. Call me if anything comes up at the hospital.”
Francesca forced a smile and replied,
Go ahead, I’ve got things handled here. Things are quiet except for Bernard connecting with Mr. Bozzelli. It looks like they’re plotting something.”
Andrew nodded. “Don’t worry. If Bernard tries anything, I won’t go easy with him.”
Once Andrew left, Francesca collapsed onto the sofa, hugging herself and lost in thought. She mumbled aloud, “What am I doing? Am I really falling for Andrew? He’s Lauren’s man–going after him would make me a terrible friend. I can’t do that to her!”
