Chapter 160

Andrew quickly withdrew his hand from Christina's, feeling awkward. Francesca raised an eyebrow. "Ms. Stevens is in such a vulnerable state," she observed. "You're not falling for her again, are you?"

"It's not like that at all," Andrew replied wearily. "She was hurt because of me; I feel a responsibility to help her recover."

"That better be all it is," Francesca warned. "You know Lauren would be heartbroken if you got back together with Ms. Stevens. You know that better than anyone."

"Why are you bringing up Ms. Rhodes?" Andrew groaned. "That's completely irrelevant."

"Don't play dumb—it's entirely relevant," Francesca snapped. "Everyone can see Lauren has feelings for you. If you break her heart, you're nothing but a jerk."

Andrew wisely remained silent, knowing argument would only exacerbate the situation. This irritated Francesca further. "Well? What are your plans with Lauren?"

"Ms. Rhodes has been very helpful, and she's beautiful and kind. I consider her a good friend," Andrew said carefully.

Francesca laughed coldly. "Just a good friend? Then why lead her on? You're going to wait until she falls deeply in love and then tell her you're 'just friends'?"

"I knew it—you're nothing but a jerk!" she exclaimed, storming out before Andrew could respond.

Lauren was engrossed in work at Rhodes Corporation when Michael entered her office with a smirk.

"Dearest Lauren, how can you focus on work? Don't you know your man is at Jayrodale General Hospital right now, getting cozy with another woman?"

Lauren didn't look up. "If you came here just to spread nonsense, you can leave."

Michael scoffed. "It's just a friendly reminder, Lauren. Andrew is talented, and keeping him close could be useful. But this dog you've been feeding might bite the hand that feeds it—you should keep him on a tighter leash."

Lauren picked up her untouched coffee and threw it in Michael's face. "If you dare say another word against Andrew," she said icily, "you'll regret it."

Michael wiped his face, clearly shocked by her reaction. "Have you lost your mind? I'm just trying to help!"

Lauren chuckled. "Drop the act. I know you're just trying to cause problems between Andrew and me. But you've got it all wrong. I don't care who he spends time with. I only need to know his feelings for me haven't changed."

"Is that so?" Michael's smile turned cold. "Well, I hope you really mean that. By the way, the family elders have approved your engagement to the Driscoll family's heir. Joe has been eagerly awaiting to make you his bride."