Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 1035

Aspen smirked. "Not much, just a little over 30 grand."

Andrew let out a cold chuckle. "You sure know how to burn through my money like it grows on trees. But it's fine—if you ever drain me dry, I'll just sell you off to cover the losses."

That wiped the smug look right off Aspen's face, leaving her gritting her teeth.

Andrew had absolute control over her now. If he did sell her, she would have no one to complain to—not even a court that would listen.

She huffed, "The ones draining you dry are Lauren and Francesca. I haven't even touched a penny…"

Her heart shrank a little, but her mouth still refused to back down.

…

After finishing the company tour, Andrew barely took a breath before heading to the charity event hosted by the local government. Aspen's competence clearly was not just for show.

All the way there, she gave Andrew a crash course on the capital's complicated business networks and behind-the-scenes power plays.

She said, "In a bit, Governor Derek McCormick will show up. Word is, he's a straight shooter who hates corruption and despises nepotism. So, we need to rely on real performance. If we try too hard to flatter him, it'll just backfire."

Andrew nodded while listening, replying casually, "Perfect. I'm good at a lot of things—kissing ass just isn't one of them."

Aspen went on, "Even though it's just a charity event, most of the guests will be elites from the capital's wealthiest families, plus top people from both business and politics. These people don't show up without incentive.

"The moment a major figure like the governor appears, they circle like sharks smelling blood. Our goal today is simple—get familiar, make a solid first impression, and set the stage for future partnerships. If any official projects are announced, we observe first—don't jump in."