Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 528

Chapter 528 Though the time was short , Troy had managed to satisfy Ruby to some extent .

Those brief bursts of intense effort had at least brought her a flicker of enjoyment .

However , just as they were reaching the peak of the moment , Troys phone rang loudly .

Neither of them paid attention at first they were too caught up to care .

The phone refused to stop .

It kept ringing persistently over and over again , as if determined not to give up until someone answered .

Troy let out a sudden yelp of frustration , his face contorting with both anger and despair .

Ruby , startled , asked , Whats wrong ? Troys expression was a mix of fury and helplessness as he gestured downward .

See for yourself ! Ruby glanced down and immediately froze , disbelief spreading across her face .

Troy had completely deflated his once enthusiastic presence reduced to a soft , limp failure .

The repeated phone calls had dealt a devastating blow , killing the mood entirely .

Grabbing his phone with a vengeance , Troy answered , practically shouting into the receiver .

Who the hell is this ? Laurens icy voice came through the line .

Mr.

MacAfee , watch your tone .

Where are you right now ? I have something urgent to discuss with you .

Troy was stunned it was Lauren .

While he had shifted his allegiance to Michael and often disrespected Lauren , the memory of working under her lingered .

Deep down , he still feared her commanding presence .

His defiance crumbled instantly .

After a brief pause , he forced an apologetic laugh .

Oh , Im so sorry , Ms.

Rhodes ! I didnt realize it was you .

Laurens tone was sharp .

What were you doing that was so important you couldnt pick up my call ? Troy glanced at Ruby , who was glaring at him , her displeasure evident .

He stammered , trying to sound calm .

Ms.

Rhodes , Im not at the office right now .

Im meeting with an important client at a restaurant to discuss a deal .

Its been a hectic meeting I didnt realize youd called .

Laurens voice turned unexpectedly cheerful .

Oh , really ? Youre not , by any chance , meeting Ruby ? At , say , a hotel suite , perhaps ? Troy cursed Lauren silently , but outwardly , he forced a strained laugh .