Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren)

Rounding the screen, Andrew stepped into a room that oozed classic elegance and femininity.

Everything inside, from the painting to the curated instruments and decor, spoke of refined taste and artistry.

A soft purple veil hung from the canopy over the bed, trailing to the plush carpet below, completely obscuring what lay behind it.

Victoria's voice came from inside again. "Mr. Lloyd, please find yourself a place to sit!"noveldrama

Andrew replied, "Mrs. Peck, this is your private chamber, and I think it's best I remain standing. I only came by to pay my respects. If you're feeling unwell, I can always return another day."

A melodious laugh rang out, and Victoria's voice turned teasing from behind the veil. "Aren't you being all respectful? I'm guessing that bitch Tiana taught you to do this, right? Let me guess... She not only taught you to be well-behaved and keep a low profile in front of me!

"She also told you that I'm a shameless flirt, a woman who only knows violence and nothing else, right?"

Andrew could not help but feel his scalp tingle. Victoria was definitely not someone to underestimate. After all, Tiana indeed said those things to him.

What made it worse was how soft and sweet her voice was, like she was a gentle, lovesick woman rather than someone terrifying enough to make the entire city tread carefully.

Anyone who did not know better might be fooled into thinking she was just an elegant, tender noblewoman.

Nonetheless, Andrew had been warned by Tiana. He knew that behind that curtain was not some fragile beauty. Instead, there lay a terrifying figure who was nearly a martial saint.

Victoria added, "I caught a cold these past few days and have been feeling quite unwell. I've heard that you have amazing medical skills and great talent, and are now Blumedale's renowned Grand Physician. Since you're here, why don't you take a look at my conditions?"

Clearly, she didn't care how suspicious it looked or what Andrew might think.

After hesitating briefly, Andrew stepped forward and sat by the curtain's edge. From behind it, a pale, slender arm slipped out-delicate fingers, painted in a soft pink polish, nails filed to perfection.

It was almost impossibly beautiful.

"Excuse me," Andrew said, reaching for her wrist to take her pulse.

However, the moment his fingers touched her skin, that graceful hand suddenly twisted and locked down on his with lightning speed.

Andrew did not react. He simply asked in a low voice, "Mrs. Peck, what is the meaning of this?"

Victoria's tone turned cold. "What do you think it means? Mr. Lloyd, someone as clever as you should've figured it out by now."

Andrew tried to pull his hand free, but her grip held tight. Her fingers, while slim and smooth, carried a

crushing strength that pinned him in place like an iron vise.

"I truly have no idea what you're trying to say," Andrew said flatly. "But if you don't

let go, I'll be forced to respond in kind."

His voice had gone cold, too.

From behind the veil, Victoria answered without concern. "Don't be foolish. If you

go head-to-head with me, you'll be the one paying the price."

Andrew's smile turned sharp. "Is that

so? I've heard Mrs. Peck is a martial

master, feared across

may not be much, but I wouldn't mind testing the rumors myself."

So, she had baited him with an excuse about her health, just to trap him the moment he let down his guard.

However, Andrew was not one to play nice when someone tried to ambush him. If words would not work, then fists would have to do.

With a subtle flick of his arm, he activated his inner energy, causing his meridians to pulse and vibrate violently.

Victoria let out a surprised breath, followed by a soft, amused laugh. "No wonder you were able to injure my pathetic husband. You really are something special. Judging by the power I'm sensing... you've likely surpassed the level of a martial king, haven't you?"

Her tone remained calm, but the strength behind her grip surged even higher.

With just a sheer curtain between them, Andrew found himself locked in a hidden clash of force with this unpredictable woman.