Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren)

In the end, Andrew successfully obtained three rare medicinal herbs from Malcolm. Getting three at once was quite a haul, and he left feeling extremely satisfied.

In exchange, he had to agree to represent Blumedale Hospital at the Grand Medical Summit. He had initially wanted to hold his ground, especially since Thomas' attitude had really irritated him.

However, Malcolm's generous offering was too substantial to refuse. When combined with Francesca's persistent persuasion, Andrew had no choice but to agree.

After all, he had been aiming for the Grand Medical Summit's rewards all along. He did not care about titles like "Medical Master"-he was targeting high-quality, rare medicinal herbs and various other prizes.

"Mr. Lloyd, let me escort you out," Norman offered as they were leaving, his attitude now incredibly warm and attentive.

Logan sneered. "Dr. Ellington, you sure change your tune quickly."

Norman's face reddened as he forced a laugh. "Even Dr. Goddard now values Mr. Lloyd highly. I'm just a department head—I wouldn't dare be disrespectful anymore!"

Andrew responded indifferently. "Dr. Ellington, there's no serious grudge between us. I was once a doctor myself, and though I've left the hospital, I still believe that for a medical professional, ethics come before skill. Without moral character, even the greatest medical skill is meaningless."

Norman nodded repeatedly and, through gritted teeth, declared, "Rest assured, Mr. Lloyd, I will handle that unethical bastard Daniel fairly and appropriately!"

After exiting Blumedale Hospital, Logan tilted his head and smiled. "Ms. Garcia, I think we should give them some privacy, don't you agree?"

Chantelle glanced at Francesca, her mouth twitching slightly before she stiffly replied, "Fine."

The two walked away, leaving only Francesca and Andrew behind. Francesca nervously twirled her hair and said, "Andrew, I can't go with you."

Andrew was surprised. "Fran, why not? Don't you want to see me?"

Francesca quickly responded, "Of course not! I've been thinking about you constantly! But as you heard, the Grand Medical Summit is coming up soon, and I need to prepare."

Andrew smiled. "It's okay, I won't keep you long-just one night."

Francesca blushed, both embarrassed and annoyed. "You're just the same as before, you old pervert!"

"No, I'm not giving in to you," she protested.

Andrew gave her a meaningful look. "Are you sure about that?"

Francesca conceded defeat and bit her lip. "Fine, I do want to go with you. But how do I explain it to Dr. Goddard? If I go with you, I won't want to come back."

Andrew nodded understandingly. "Alright then, stay and study with Dr. Goddard. I'll come for you on the day of the summit."

Francesca murmured in agreement and, after glancing around cautiously, leaned forward to plant a quick kiss on Andrew's lips before running back inside.

Andrew watched her graceful figure and enticing silhouette disappear, clicking his tongue in disappointment.

He thought it was such a shame because he had been looking forward to spending the night with her. It seemed he would have to continue his ascetic lifestyle a bit longer.

...

Logan and Chantelle returned from their brief departure.

"Andy, missing Ms. Aicker already?" Logan teased.

"That's easy to fix-just take her to a hotel for a few hours. It won't take up too

much time!" he suggested with a grin.noveldrama

Andrew shook his head. "I prefer long, passionate nights-quick encounters aren't my style. Besides, I usually need at least three hours. A short hotel stay wouldn't be

enough."

Logan looked at him with dubious amazement. "Are you really that... impressive?"

Chantelle shot them a look of disgust. "Is filthy garbage all you men have in your heads?"

Andrew glanced at her and smiled. "Ms. Garcia, since you're not the passionate type, I won't say much But I do suggest you find yourself a boyfriend. You've reached the peak of both your career and your beauty. Honestly, not experiencing love with a partner seems like such a waste."

Chantelle smirked coldly. "That's none of your concern, Mr. Lloyd! All men are pigs!"

Andrew and Logan spoke almost in perfect unison, exclaiming at the same time, "Except me!"

Logan burst into laughter. "Andy, great minds think alike! Well, I've got to go now." Andrew nodded. "Sure, let's grab drinks another day."