Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 689

Jackie wore a deep frown, worry etched across his face. "But Miss, we're completely stuck here in Jayrodale. We have no working capital, no reliable connections, and now Mr. Woods—our strongest card—is gone. We can't pull off anything without resources."

Aspen shot her a glare, voice cold and sharp. "Shut up. It's not as hopeless as it looks. Don't forget that I still have the pharmaceutical formulas from Rhodes Corporation's Pharmaceutical Division. Those formulas are pure gold."

She added, "Stevens Corporation has already partnered with a manufacturing firm to start production. Once that kicks off, we'll have cash flowing in soon enough."

Bruce gave a cautious nod. "That's a start, but we still need protection. Without someone strong guarding our operations, we'll be exposed."

Aspen's lips twisted into a venomous sneer. Her grip on the ring tightened, her knuckles turning white. "Andrew… this is all your fault."

She turned to Bruce. "Find Finley Moore for me. Tell him I want to partner up. We'll make money together."

Bruce's eyes lit up. "Finley from Hidden Dragons? They're one of the top three in Gabo Creek. That could actually work!"

…

Three days later, at the Moonlit Apothecary, Nyla had finally regained her strength. The deadly toxin from the Plaguebringer's Palm was gone, thanks to Andrew's treatment.

She was still a bit weak from the lingering effects of the palm's crushing force. Her body just needed rest to fully recover.

Francesca stretched with a satisfied sigh. "Andrew, Lauren, I have a suggestion. Let me know what you think."

Andrew glanced at her. "Go ahead, Fran."

Lauren chuckled before Francesca could speak. "Oh, Fran, I already know what you're going to say."

"Andrew's always busy, running around dealing with other issues, which leaves the clinic unattended too often."

Francesca's jaw dropped. "How the hell…"

Lauren smirked. "Not only that, but I bet you've already picked the perfect candidate to sit here in Andrew's place. And that person… is your grandfather, right?"

Francesca groaned and dropped her head into her hands. "Damn it! You read me like a book."

Andrew smiled. "If Mr. Aicker can come here to help out, that'd be amazing. But won't it cause issues back home with the Aickers if he leaves?"

Francesca shook her head sadly. "Ever since Simon betrayed us, Grandpa has been devastated. He keeps blaming himself—saying Simon's betrayal is his fault for not raising him right. I'm hoping that if he works here, it'll give him something positive to focus on."