Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren)

Luna said, "He's a guest Marvin personally recommended to the family-we can't treat him with disrespect. Francis grumbled as he lowered his hand. He clenched his jaw and said, "You're lucky Miss is composed and gracious. Otherwise, with that arrogant mouth of yours, you'd be in serious trouble by now."

Andrew curled his lip. "Save the lecture. Just take me to see Mr. Phelan Senior. I've got more important things to do afterward."

Luna's voice came quietly, cool as deep water. "Not so fast. You said my garden lacks elegance and composure. I'm curious-were you just trying to get attention, or do you actually know what you're talking about?"

Andrew replied without hesitation. "I was totally bluffing. Don't know a thing, really. So let's not waste time. Take me to Mr. Phelan Senior already."

Francis scoffed. "Miss, there's no point arguing with someone so half-baked. Just report back to Mr. Phelan Senior, then toss him out of the estate."

Luna narrowed her eyes and said calmly, "I asked you a question. You'd better answer properly. Because if you don't... I guarantee the moment you step outside the Phelan estate, the Goldings' enforcers and the Wrights' people will be waiting.

"And that's just the start. A 300-million bounty means there are plenty of mercenaries ready to trade your life for a payday. You might want to reconsider your attitude."

Andrew's gaze turned cold. So, she was exactly what he expected-overconfident and completely unwilling to be challenged. However, she also had information, and she clearly was not bluffing.

She knew all about his conflicts with the big players in Blumedale, and she was not afraid to use it.

"Alright," he said slowly. "Since you're so eager to learn, I'll offer a quick crash course."

Ignoring Francis' grim expression, Andrew continued, "In Holtrien, traditional landscaping values two key principles-natural harmony and cultural expression.

"You don't need gaudy layouts or excessive trimming and decoration. What matters is that every tree, plant, and stone complements each other and blends into the whole.

"It's about harmony between people and nature. The garden should feel alive, not just look pretty. That philosophy connects with both Torasesy flow and the classical unity of man and nature."

Luna's eyes flickered thoughtfully.

Andrew kept going. “Your garden here is flawless in structure–like a finely carved statue. But that's exactly the problem. It looks more like a Valemontian art piece, all about form and showmanship.

"In Holtrien tradition, it's the feeling that counts more than the design-the emotional resonance should outweigh the ornamental appeal."

Luna listened intently, and despite herself, even nodded a little. Just right as she

was getting into it, Andrew abruptly stopped.

Luna lifted her head, slightly frowning. "Go on."

Andrew shrugged. "I'm here to check on Mr. Phalen Senior's health, not to give you a landscaping seminar. And knowledge like this? It's not free. If you want me to teach you, I Charge for it." , swnovel

Francis laughed mockingly. "What kind of ego trip are you on? Ms. Phelan doesn't need lessons from you! She

could ask for the stars, and someone would get them for her!"

Andrew replied calmly, "And what's that got to do with me?

l.ne

Francis almost choked. This guy really had no filter, and he thought it was a miracle that he had survived this long. Luna, however, gave Andrew a slight nod. "You've got some insight, after all. Marvin wasn't wrong about you. I'm Luna Phelan. You've earned the right to know my name." swnovel

She turned on her heel and started walking, expecting Andrew to follow.

Andrew just sighed internally, thinking, 'Seriously? It's just a name-not some sacred relic.'

Then again, this kind of posturingnoveldrama

and rigid etiquette was exactly what he expected from a place like this. After all, big families loved making everything more complicated than it needed to be. swnovel

Today's Bonus Offer