Chapter 47

Finally, Michael understood Andrew's two-part strategy: the trap and the pressure play. Poor Paul had cracked under pressure and confessed, which Michael could understand. After all, anyone would be terrified to drink potentially poisoned water—which was also why Michael refused to drink it. However, he had underestimated Andrew. None of the water was poisoned, and Lauren didn't know who the culprit was; they had simply played a trick to force Paul's confession.

Just as his anger began to subside, Michael's face turned ashen as he clenched his fists again. The humiliation was overwhelming. He couldn't believe a mere gold-digger had played him, a Rhodes family heir, like a fool.

Michael pulled out his phone and made a call. "Bane, didn't you say your poison was incurable except by you? Some small-time doctor just cured Lauren—you better explain this!"

A sinister voice replied, "How's this possible? Mr. Rhodes, you must be mistaken. In Jayrodale, not even Cedric could counter my poisons."

Cedric was Francesca's grandfather.

Michael scoffed. "I saw it myself. Do you think I'm making this up? The plan to poison Lauren is clearly a bust. You need to come up with something else."

After impatiently ending that call, Michael dialed another number. "Mr. Garner, I don't care what it costs—make that guy disappear. I won't rest easy until that bastard is gone!"

Even though Paul was dead and couldn't expose him, Andrew still held evidence against Michael. He had not only extorted fifteen million but had also nearly ruined everything. There was no way Michael would let him live.

After making his arrangements, Michael, still agitated, made one final call. "Have Oakridge Club prepare two foreign models for me tonight. I'm tired of local girls!"

Meanwhile, Andrew was leaving Rhodes Corporation when he noticed two missed calls. Recognizing the number, he frowned but called back.

Christina's voice came through coldly. "Andrew, Grandpa is hosting a family dinner tonight. I wouldn't have invited you, but he specifically requested your presence."

After some thought, Andrew replied, "Alright, I'll come and visit Mr. Stevens Senior."

"One more thing," Christina added coldly, "Harvey will be there, so watch what you say."

"His presence means nothing to me," Andrew replied dismissively before hanging up.

Christina's grandfather, Douglas Stevens, was in his seventies. He had always been kind to Andrew as his potential grandson-in-law. Since Douglas had graciously invited him, Andrew felt obliged to attend.

Soon, Andrew arrived at the Stevens family residence carrying two bottles of aged wine. The house bustled with activity as other family members had gathered. While Andrew's arrival went largely unnoticed, Harvey's entrance caused quite a stir among the Stevens family members, everyone rushing to greet him. "Mr. Weller is here! Everyone, let's give him a warm welcome!"