Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren)

Miles said, "But I know there must be a reason why you favor Andrew so much. Perhaps it has something to do with that person you've never been able to forget from years ago. Am I right?"

Victoria replied coldly, "What are you trying to say?"

Miles sighed deeply. "I'm not trying to say anything. I just think you've lived your whole life being too strong-willed and exhausted! In the Peck family, you don't respect anyone, and in Blumedale, you don't even give Governor McCormick or the Three Titans any time of the day.

"In Gabo Creek province's martial arts world, you're notorious for being ruthless and feared by everyone! Yet, you think about that one person day and night, your heart and soul consumed by him.

"As your son, I just want to ask if he was really that extraordinary? Is he really worth all that longing?"

By the time he finished, Miles' voice was filled with resentment. He was clearly angry.

Victoria was silent for a moment before letting out a sharp, bitter laugh. "Miles, it sounds like you've got a lot of resentment toward your own mother. Fine. Since we're being honest today, I'll just lay it all out and spare you any more false hope."

She explained, "Andrew... is the son of that man I've never stopped thinking about. That's exactly why I treated him the way I did today. You asked how special that man was... Well, just look at Andrew now. Everything he is today is a reflection of who his father once was. Does that answer satisfy you?"

Miles stood there, stunned for a long while before he let out a bitter laugh. "Oh, I'm satisfied-more than satisfied. Liliana and I don't measure up to Andrew, and Dad? He sure as hell doesn't measure up to his dad. Funny how fate works, isn't it?"

He continued, always thought

maybe God shut the window on Dad, but would at least open a door for our generation to make up for it. But no. God slammed the door on us, too And Andrew? That guy had the window, the door... hell, maybe even the damn roof opened for him. God really does play favorites."

Liliana growled, "It doesn't matter. I'm still never marrying that Andrew. Any man who wants me has to earn it, and he doesn't."

Victoria did not push her. She smiled faintly and said, "My sweet Liliana, you're just like I was when I was young. As long as you don't regret it in the end, I won't stop you."

Liliana answered firmly, "I won't regret it. Even if every man on Earth dropped dead, I'd still never fall for Andrew. I can only despise him."

Miles chuckled sarcastically. "Honestly, I wish I could marry the guy. Too bad I've got a set of the wrong parts. And at this age, it's a little late for a gender switch."

Liliana stared at him, baffled. "Miles, have you lost your mind too? Are you really falling for Andrew like Mom did?"

Miles shook his head. "No. I'm like Mom because I've always been clear-headed. But you? You're still just a silly girl who doesn't even realize greatness when it's right in front of her."

The mother, son, and daughter argued back and forth in the room. None of them realized that just outside the door, crouched in the shadows near the wall, Calvin had heard every word.

He quietly slipped away, hisnoveldrama

expression twisting as he left. He muttered, "You bitch... so you still haven't let go of that bastard from the past. I couldn't beat him back then. But now? Killing his sonwon't be difficult at all. Just wait! I'll make sure all of you drown in pain and regret."