Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 1040

Not long after Andrew and Aspen arrived, a middle-aged man in a formal robe stepped onto the stage and addressed the room.

"Thank you all for coming to the capital's official charity event. As always, I'm Derek McCormick. No long speeches—everyone, just show your sincerity. I hope we can all give something back and help those struggling in the poorer regions of Gabo Creek Province."

He did not say much—just brief sentences—before setting down the mic and stepping off. And yet, no one had a single complaint. On the contrary, the room erupted into applause, with waves of praise echoing throughout the hall.

The reason was simple: the man was Derek McCormick, Governor of Gabo Creek—one of the highest-ranking officials in the province. He was a true regional powerhouse.

Andrew nodded with interest. "You can tell. The guy actually seems like a good leader."

Aspen rolled her eyes with a half-laugh. "Can you not act like that? Mr. McCormick is way above your league, and you talk like you're some kind of political analyst. Do you even realize how ridiculous you sound?"

Sometimes, she honestly could not believe this man. It was like Andrew did not take anything seriously—not the rules, not the hierarchy, not even the unspoken codes of elite society.

Where others would act cautious or deferential, Andrew walked through life like he owned the place.

Then he tilted his head, gave it a thought, and said seriously, "Technically speaking, I'm probably on the same level as him."

Aspen scoffed, but the way her voice faltered gave her away. Suddenly, her mind drifted back to what Zachary had addressed Andrew as General the night before at Aroma Exchange.

If the man standing beside her really had once held a general's rank in Holtrien's military, then yes—strictly by classification, he might actually be on par with Governor McCormick.

Aspen quickly looked around, making sure no one overheard him, then hissed, "Could you not talk so loud? You can make comments like that in private, sure—but saying it in public? Are you trying to commit career suicide?"

Andrew raised a hand in mock surrender and laughed. "Fair point. It's rude to discuss the governor like that in front of everyone."

Aspen nodded. "Exactly. That's what makes Mr. McCormick so unique. Most high-level officials try to act modestly and avoid asking for money directly to preserve their image. But he's different—he's all about action. If it helps the people, he's willing to step forward himself and doesn't care how it looks."

Andrew gave a rare look of approval. "That's the kind of official people respect. You should go up and make a contribution too."

Aspen stood and smiled. "Of course. Supreme Capital Group has to be listed on the donation board. If Mr. McCormick sees us showing up and showing heart, it opens the door to future opportunities."