Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 781

Andrew hesitated for a moment before saying slowly, "The reason I pushed you to improve your skills across the board is because I have other plans. Very soon, you might face a real test against much stronger opponents."

Dylan, completely unfazed, smirked. "Mr. Lloyd, you gave me this life, so whether it's stronger opponents or even Jesus himself, I'll make sure he's running with that cross on his back!"

Natasha, more perceptive than Dylan, narrowed her eyes at Andrew. "Darling, you're not about to tell us you've got enemies, are you?"

Andrew shrugged. "Wouldn't call them enemies, but chances are, there's gonna be a fight."

Natasha chuckled. "In Jayrodale? Please. I doubt there's anyone here who could even try to take you on. The Wellers, the Rhodes—none stand a chance against you. Even Mr. Yates on our side, so who else could you possibly be up against?"

Andrew smiled. "Just because I don't have rivals in Jayrodale doesn't mean I don't have them elsewhere. For example, the Golding and the Driscoll families over in Blumedale."

Natasha and Dylan froze, their expressions tightening before exchanging uneasy glances.

Dylan let out a dry laugh. "Mr. Lloyd, you really don't do easy mode, do you? Damn, I almost pissed myself just now."

Natasha shot Andrew a look. "Darling, do you have some kind of death wish? The Goldings and the Driscolls… Do you even realize how powerful the Goldings and the Driscolls are? Those families are absolute giants in the capital!"

Andrew shrugged. "Of course, I know. That's exactly why I had to toughen you up—otherwise, they'd crush you in a second."

Dylan and Natasha fell silent.

A year ago, just hearing the names "Golding" or "Driscoll" would have been enough to make them back down without a second thought. Nonetheless, things were different now as they had Andrew leading them.

"Whatever you say, I'll follow," Natasha muttered, throwing him a look that carried a mix of frustration and devotion. "My heart and soul already belong to you."