Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 1146

Chantelle said with a smirk. "The moment he found out something happened to you, the look on his face could've scared someone to death."

Aspen froze for a second, her heart thumping wildly as she glanced at Andrew walking just ahead. She could not help but wonder if Andrew actually cared whether she lived or died.

Chantelle gave a half-smile, half-sigh. "Mr. Lloyd sure seems emotionally invested in you, Ms. Stevens. But, if you don't mind me overstepping—there's something off in your head."

Aspen blinked. "Excuse me? Ms. Garcia, what do you mean by that?"

Chantelle chuckled softly. "I majored in psychology, both undergrad and grad school. Even with just a little observation, I'd say you're showing classic signs of Stockholm syndrome."

Aspen's lips parted slightly, but no words came out.

Chantelle studied her with a piercing gaze. "And I can tell you're an intelligent woman. You know you're getting deeper and deeper emotionally involved. But deep down… you don't actually want to get out, do you?"

Aspen's body gave a subtle shiver. "I'm sorry, Ms. Garcia, I don't know what you're talking about."

With a flustered tone, she threw out the line and quickly caught up to Andrew.

As the two of them walked off, Chantelle crossed her arms and murmured with a mocking snort, "Like a little bunny hopping straight into the wolf's mouth… Andrew, you surely are a womanizer.

"But too many women around a man? That's never a good sign. Let's see if you're strong enough to handle the storm they'll bring."

…

Back at Serenity Villa, Andrew treated the wounds on Aspen's face. Then, with his usual commanding tone, he said, "Take off your clothes. All of them."

Aspen flared with anger. "What the hell are you trying to do? No way!"

Andrew sighed impatiently. "I need to check for any other injuries. If you've got more, I'll treat them all at once. Now, hurry up."