Chapter 316 Lauren had talked so much that her mouth had gone dry.


    She grabbed her ss of water and downed it inrge gulps.


    Andrew watched her, his lips twitching harder with every passing second.


    He was almost certain now Laurens wild assumptions resulted from reading too marry trashy romance novels or binge watching overly dramatic soap operas.


    Everyone knew how deeply these kinds of shows could corrupt their audiences, especially when it came to women with overactive imaginations.


    After finishing their meal, they cleaned the kitchen together, washing the dishes until everything sparkled


    It was not even seven yet, so Andrew thought briefly before suggesting, Ms.


    Rhodes, since its your first time visiting, how about I show you around? Lauren hesitated, looking conflicted.


    Maybe another time, Dr.


    Lloyd.


    I really need to head back.


    Noticing how her fingers were fidgeting as if torn between staying and leaving, Andrew raised a brow in surprise


    Its still early, Ms.


    Rhodes.


    Youre wee to stay a little longer if youd like to.


    Lauren shook her head


    Its not about you.


    Its... my situation


    She sighed and added, Lately, I cant stay out toote.


    Other than work or business, Im expected to go home right after my day ends


    Andrew did not press further and simply nodded, Alright, let me walk you out then.


    Lauren smiled brightly.


    Sure.


    The two strolled through the courtyard and out the iron gate, walking all the way to Moonlit Sanctuarys main entrance


    There, a group of bodyguards from the Rhodes family were already waiting


    As soon as Lauren approached, the door of the first car opened, and a middle aged man in tactical gear stepped out


    Miss, the man greeted.


    Lauren nodded.


    Lets go


    She climbed into the car but not before shing Andrew with a warm smile and waving goodbye.


    Andrew waved back, but his gaze caught the man lowering the car window and giving him a cold, mocking smirk.


    Andrew remained expressionless.


    He recognized the man it was Jerry, the Rhodes familys elite fighter.


    Chapter 316 Jerry had never hidden his disdain for Andrew.


    Frankly, Andrew did not care enough to act friendly either.


    Inside the moving car, Laurens demeanor turned icy.


    Jerry, didnt I make it clear you didnt need to pick me up? Sitting stiffly in the passenger seat, Jerry responded without emotion.


    This was all Mrs.


    Rhodes instruction.


    Lauren clenched her jaw


    So what? My mother sent you to spy on me? Jerry did not deny it.


    Miss, you know full well that youre engaged.


    Mrs.


    Rhodes was furious when she learned you were spending so much time with Andrew.


    She specifically instructed us to ensure youre kept in check.


    Laurensugh was cold


    So now I dont even have basic freedom or privacy anymore.


    Is that it ? Jerry was silent for a moment before sighing.


    Miss, theres something Ive wanted to say a long time, though I feared youd think I was overstepping.


    But today, Ill say it, even if it angers you you should cut ties with Andrew.


    Laurens voice hardened


    And if I dont ? Jerry nced at her through the rearview mirror.


    If you dont, the next person involved wont be me.


    Itll be your mother, the matriarch of the Rhodes family herself.


    He paused before continuing in a grave tone.


    Mrs.


    Rhodes personally came down from Blumedale, bringing members of the main familys security team to Jayrodale


    I trust you understand the weight behind this move.


    Lauren huffed, turning to look out the car window.


    She refused to say another word, her expression stormy as the car sped through the evening streets.