Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 1082

Andrew leaned back slightly and dodged Lauren's kiss with a teasing smile.

Lauren pouted in frustration and said, "It's just a kiss, not like we're sleeping together. Come on, it's been days. Do you know how much I missed you?"

Andrew gazed at her flawless face and murmured, "You can have it… but only when I'm the one in control."

Then, before she could react, he leaned in and bit her gently, making her squeal in surprise. The two lingered in their intimate bubble for a while before finally, and reluctantly, pulling apart.

Lauren's skin was flushed, and her eyes sparkled. "You jerk, you kissed me for so long I could barely breathe! Fran was right… Andrew, you might look like a classy gentleman, but you're just a total perv underneath!"

Andrew's face turned red, and he coughed a few times to hide the awkwardness. It had only been a short time apart, but with Francesca gone, no one was around to keep the atmosphere in check.

So now, caught up in this moment with Lauren, he had let himself get carried away. He gave Lauren a playful smack on her firm behind and chuckled, "Damn, the bounce is perfect!"

Lauren let out a soft hum, her eyes sultry. "Feels good, huh? I'll have you know… When it comes to curves, I'm no less impressive than Fran. Sure, she's got that plush softness, but me? I'm toned, athletic, and all about definition."

Andrew asked, "You didn't have a hard time while staying here, did you?"

Lauren shook her head. "Not really. The only drama was during Michael's funeral—got into a huge fight with my family, and he swore he'd wipe us all out. Other than that, it's been calm."

Andrew's eyes turned cold. "You don't have to worry anymore. From now on, Kenny and his family won't be able to stir up anything."

Lauren blinked in surprise. "What exactly happened out there? I've been locked up in here and couldn't check on anything. I've been so anxious!"

Andrew just smiled and said calmly, "Mrs. Rhodes, if you've got something to say, go ahead."

Tiana looked him square in the eye. "Andrew, I'll be honest. At this point, if I tried to fight you, I doubt I'd win. And in every other way, you've probably got me beat too. So, let me be clear. Lauren—yes, you're more than worthy of her. You're more than enough."

Lauren clapped her hands and cheered, "Yes!"

However, Tiana gave her a sharp look and added, "Don't celebrate too soon. Even if I agree to let you two be together, you've still got the Driscolls to deal with.

"Compared to them, Kenny and Sherilyn are nothing—not even a threat. So Andrew, if you really want to be with Lauren, you'll have to handle the Driscolls—completely."