Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 2067

Soon after, Riker arrived at the villa with several of the Hidden Dragons' best fighters.

"Mr. Fischer, you sent for me?" Riker asked, bowing respectfully.

Henry's voice was cold. "It's time to make a move. I want you to capture one of the Blues' leaders and bring him to me. I have a use for him."

Riker frowned. "But Mr. Fischer, once we strike, it means we're openly at war with the Blues. That's not wise."

Henry gave a harsh snort. "To hell with being wise. Right now, I only care about finding the saintess. Do it. Whatever happens afterward, I'll take full responsibility."

"Understood, Mr. Fischer," Riker said quickly before withdrawing.

Just as he left, someone else walked straight into the villa.

Henry turned, and his eyes lit up in surprise. "Eric, you've come back to me?"

Eric's gaze was complicated. "Mr. Fischer, I came to tell you that from now on, there will be nothing between us."

The joy on Henry's face drained away, replaced by a cold smile. "Nothing between us? So you're set on being a free bird, flying away and never returning, is that it?"

Eric shook his head. "I've thought a lot these past days. What we had was just a partnership. Beyond that, there is nothing else. I don't owe you, and you don't owe me. That's all. So I'll take my leave."

He turned to go, but Henry blurred across the room, blocking the door. "Stop! I still have something to say!"

Eric's face paled, but he stayed silent, his jaw clenched.

Henry's heart sank. Eric was not just his man, but he was also a powerful weapon. Phantom Mirage alone made him invaluable. Yet now, this asset was slipping from his grasp.

Henry's voice was low and venomous. "Eric, I'll ask you one last thing. You're not seriously in love with Andrew, are you? Don't be a fool. He likes women. He has no interest in men. You play that game, and one day he'll find out what you are and call you a freak."

Eric finally snapped. "Shut up, Henry! My thoughts aren't as filthy as you think."

Henry sneered. "Not as filthy? Then what does your blind loyalty to Andrew mean? Don't forget that you're a traitor, no matter how you dress it up."