With a sharp smack, Rodney slapped Christina's exposed leg, the sound echoing through the room. "Wow, now this is something else—silky, soft, and with just the right bounce. Ms. Stevens, these legs of yours could keep me entertained for years!" Rodney exclaimed, his hands growing bolder as he laughed. Christina burned with shame and fury, raising her hand to slap him across the face. However, Rodney caught her wrist effortlessly and slapped her back instead. The impact left a visible red mark on her pristine face, and a tear rolled down her cheek as the reality of her situation sank in. At that moment, she felt utterly fragile. Aspen gritted her teeth and growled, "Rodney, forget the money. Open the door, and we'll leave right now!" Rodney sneered at her request. He taunted, "You think you can just walk in and out of Madblade Martial Academy as you please? Remember how commanding you were when you first came in? I hate people giving me orders, so you're not going anywhere un

Francesca said, "Please take me to the patient. I have other matters to attend to after this treatment." Though Rodney's face darkened, he did not dare show any attitude. He replied, "Dr. Aicker, please follow me." Francesca gestured to Andrew and introduced him. "This is our deputy chief, Dr. Lloyd." Rodney nodded quickly and greeted, "Dr. Lloyd." Inwardly, his thoughts raced with confusion as he wondered just how many titles Andrew held. Andrew chuckled. "Fran, go ahead and handle the patient. I need to speak with Mr. Sanford here." Francesca agreed. "Alright, wait for me." Then, she followed one of the Madblade Martial Academy members into the main hall. Andrew scanned the remaining students and staff, including Dean, before speaking flatly. "Those not involved, get out." The students departed without protest, while Dean bowed deferentially. "I'll take my leave. Mr. Lloyd, please call if you need anything!" Once alone, Andrew asked, "Why did Aspen and Christina c

Andrew chuckled. "Relax, your head's too hard, and honestly, I don't enjoy slapping it—my hand's starting to hurt. Just have Dean repay all the money owed to those creditors—they worked hard for that money in the Northern District and deserve to be paid." "Fine, whatever," Rodney muttered reluctantly, and Andrew left with Francesca, confident the debt would be settled. Outside the academy, the creditors were still lingering, many of them nursing injuries from earlier confrontations. They were cursing Madblade Martial Academy bitterly when Andrew called out, "Everyone, listen up! Madblade Martial Academy has agreed to repay your money—go collect it!" "Are you serious?" asked one portly businessman, excitement rippling through the crowd. "I just spoke with Rodney, and he wouldn't dare refuse," Andrew replied with a smile. "Go on in." However, the creditors hesitated, still traumatized by their earlier treatment and doubting this stranger's influence. "How ridiculous. Giv

After buying breakfast for two downstairs at the Rhodes Corporation building, Andrew headed toward the elevator. Just then, Marcus stepped out of his modest Volkswagen Passat, briefcase in hand, looking utterly exhausted. When Marcus walked closer, Andrew smiled and teased, "Mr. Chapman, as a department head at Rhodes Corporation, don't you think driving a car like this is a bit too modest?" Marcus managed a weak smile when he recognized Andrew. "Good morning, Mr. Lloyd. I'm not too particular about cars—as long as it gets me where I need to go comfortably, I'm fine." "You look like you haven't slept all night, Mr. Chapman. Is something bothering you?" Andrew asked casually. "Work's been quite overwhelming. I didn't sleep well last night," Marcus replied. "Work is important, but you need to take care of your health, Mr. Chapman," Andrew advised. They chatted briefly before heading into the building and going their separate ways. When Andrew arrived at Lauren's office, he

Marcus' words carried resentment, but even more apparent was his complete loss of purpose—both in life and work. He had nothing left but despair. "Damn that Michael," Lauren muttered under her breath. "If Marcus dies, how is he going to explain this to the family board?" Before Lauren could attempt more persuasion, Andrew held her back. He advised, "Ms. Rhodes, let's not mention anything that might upset Mr. Chapman further. He's too emotional to listen to reason right now—anything we say might only push him closer to the edge." Lauren nodded in agreement. "You're right, Dr. Lloyd. Eunice, has anyone called emergency services? We need rescue teams here." "They're already on their way," Eunice replied. However, Andrew shook his head. "There's no time. Marcus is determined to end it all—any sudden movement could trigger him to jump." "Everyone, please step back and give Mr. Chapman some space!" Andrew commanded, spreading his arms to push the crowd back. Eunice snapped, "Wh