Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 1326

With the meal finally over, the Stevens family walked Andrew and Aspen to the hotel entrance. Oscar followed timidly behind them, practically blending into the background.

Aspen waved them off, saying, "Mom, Dad, you should head back now. Tomorrow is the Grand Medical Summit. I'll come pick you up to watch the competition."

She felt a swell of satisfaction because the dinner had gone well. After all, Andrew's performance had been perfect the entire night. Though she prided herself on being independent, he had fed her ego by giving her a chance to shine in front of her parents.

However, Esther still appeared concerned. She waved Aspen over and said, "Aspen, come here. I want to have a word with you."

Aspen glanced at Andrew, who nodded slightly. Once received her approval, she stepped aside with Esther and asked, "Mom, what's wrong?"

Esther hesitated for a moment, choosing her words carefully. "Aspen, do you believe that Andrew will actually let you go when the time comes?"

Aspen fell silent, then finally gave a small nod. "Yes, he promised me. He said he'd give me my freedom."

Esther let out a long, relieved breath. "That's good to hear. From what I saw today, Andrew seems polite and thoughtful, not at all the kind of person I feared."

Aspen pouted a little, mumbling, "He's not a bad guy at all. In fact, he's been really nice to me."

Esther sighed deeply, her expression turning complicated. "Hearing you say that just makes me worry even more."

Aspen was surprised. "Huh? Why?"

Esther hesitated, looking her daughter in the eyes. "Aspen, have you… developed feelings for Andrew?"