Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 1120

Aspen ran through every room and checked out the front and back of the house. By the end of it, her legs were sore. Even so, instead of feeling tired, her delicate face was lit up with excitement and wonder.

"Hey, this place is hands-down the best, fanciest, and most expensive location I've ever seen in my life!" she said, rubbing her aching calves while smiling up at Andrew.

Andrew replied casually, "Judging by that smile you can't wipe off your face, I'm guessing you're falling in love with it?"

Aspen pouted. "Saying I'm not would just be lying to myself. Serenity Villa is clearly the kind of estate that money alone can't buy. A place like this… I'd say only the top families in Blumedale are worthy of it."

Andrew let out a dismissive snort. "Don't put those so-called Blumedale elites on a pedestal. Serenity Villa isn't some heavenly paradise. Just remember—the view from the top is always the most breathtaking. And Blumedale in Gabo Creek Province? That place barely makes it to mid-mountain status."

Switching to rub her other leg, Aspen looked dreamy as she said, "Of course, I know the view is best from the top! And there's no way Blumedale could ever compare to the grandeur of Chetvine in Holtrien. I just don't know when I'll ever get the chance to step into a place like Chetvine, where the real elites gather, and show them what I've got."

Andrew shook his head. "You? Not very likely."

Aspen's face immediately darkened. "Don't look down on me like that! I may not be there yet, but that doesn't mean I'll never make it!"

She was starting to realize—talking to this devil of a man meant constantly being ready to get pissed off at any moment.

Andrew suddenly flashed a strange smile. "Heh… actually, I can think of one possible way for you."

Aspen looked at him, half skeptical and half intrigued. "What way?"