Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 1075

Andrew said coldly "Weren't you the one bragging about carrying the Goldings' heir? Didn't you think marrying into the Goldings made you superior, untouchable? Well, I just slapped the hell out of you, and now you're bawling like a child. So go on, keep insulting me."

He lowered his hand, face expressionless, eyes locked on Sherilyn.

Sherilyn's head was spinning, her face completely numb from the strikes. She stammered, "You little bas—Andrew, you actually hit me… You actually hit a pregnant woman. I swear, you're finished. My husband will kill you!"

Her rage burned to the point she wanted to rip Andrew apart, but the words stuck in her throat.

After that last round of slaps, Sherilyn had started questioning reality itself. Just then, a Rhodes family guard burst into the room, out of breath.

He shouted, "Mr. and Mrs. Rhodes! We've got trouble—the Goldings are here!"

Jameson's face changed. "Shut the gates. Tell them we're not receiving visitors today!"

Tiana shook her head. "That won't help! The Goldings don't take 'no' for an answer. If they want in, they'll force their way through."

She turned to Andrew urgently. "Go out the back. Now. Leave before it's too late!"

However, Andrew stood his ground. "There's no need to run, Mrs. Rhodes. They're already here? Good. Let's settle everything while they're at our doorstep."

Tiana's voice rose in fury. "You idiot! The Goldings are nothing like Aidan! If you don't leave right now, no one will be able to protect you! I get that you're confident, but believe me—the Five Apex Families here in the capital aren't people you can take lightly!"

Jameson quickly added, "Andy, please listen to her. Just leave first. Whatever happens, they won't dare openly go after the Rhodes because they need to upkeep their reputation. We'll buy you time!"