Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 838

Since resistance was futile, there was no choice but to submit. Zephyr said, "Aspen, I swear I'll find a way to get you out of this hellhole!"

Leaving behind that one sentence, he led the Bridgefields Stevens family out of Jayrodale in a state of utter defeat.

Aspen watched their retreating figures, silent tears slipping down her face. As long as her sacrifice could ensure her family's survival, then it was worth it.

Andrew glanced around. "That's enough. Let's head back."

Without another word, he stepped out of the Stevens mansion doors.

Christina clenched her teeth. "Andrew, what exactly do you plan to do with Aspen?"

Andrew did not even turn his head. "I haven't decided yet, but it depends on how she behaves. If she's useless, I'll sell her off abroad and let fate decide the rest."

Aspen, trailing behind him, turned even paler. Right now, she was nothing more than Andrew's property. If he decided to ship her off, she would have no choice but to accept it.

As they left the Stevens mansion grounds, Aspen suddenly spoke. "Mr. Lloyd, may I return for two minutes? I need to ask something."

Natasha smirked. "Trying to use this as an excuse to escape?"

Andrew waved a hand. "Go ahead. I'll give you five minutes."

Aspen lowered her head. "Thank you."

Her tone was submissive—like a servant addressing her master.

Watching her retreating figure, Dylan turned to Andrew. "Mr. Lloyd, what's your plan for Aspen?"

Andrew smacked him upside the head. "Do you ever think about anything other than screwing women?"

Andrew had no interest in Aspen's body—what intrigued him was her potential. She came from an elite family, and with the proper guidance, she could be helpful in ways that extended far beyond the bedroom.

…

At that moment, Aspen returned to the Stevens mansion. She walked straight up to Christina, her expression blank. "Christie, we've known each other for years. I need to ask you something."

Christina met her gaze with complete calm. "I already know what you want to ask. Yes. I was the one who tipped off the main family."

Aspen nodded, then suddenly smiled. "When I first arrived in Jayrodale, I thought you were weak—insignificant. But now, I see how wrong I was. My arrogance was nothing compared to your silent cruelty. You cut me apart piece by piece, and I never even saw the blade coming."

With that, she turned around and walked out of the Stevens mansion—without looking back.