At a small roadside town along the way, Logan approached Andrew and suggested, “We’re still half a day away from the destination. Why don’t we take a break? Everyone’s looking pretty worn out.”
Andrew, whose car was at the front, stepped out and nodded. “Sure, let’s rest for two hours. Everyone, find a place to eat and relax.”
Chantelle got out with Ralph and Magnus in tow.
Magnus, the so-called specialist, started complaining right away. “Ugh, I’m exhausted. Ms. Garcia, how about we just spend the day here resting? You can get a massage and catch up on a good night’s sleep. Treasure hunting is a long-term endeavor. There’s no need to rush.”
Chantelle glanced toward Andrew and shook her head. “It’s not up to me. Mr. Lloyd makes that call.”
Magnus scoffed. “In our line of work, the government officials are the real bosses. That guy is just a businessman. Ms. Garcia, you don’t need to defer to him.”
Ralph chimed in, “Exactly—Mr. Veyne’s right. You saw how he disrespected your arrangements and even called you an idiot. Only someone as patient as you would tolerate that. Otherwise, with a word from the authorities, that guy would be ruined.”
Chantelle frowned and said flatly, “You two are professionals. Just stick to your expertise. I don’t want to hear any more gossip.”
Magnus chuckled and fell silent, his thick skin unbothered. However, Ralph’s face turned red. What did she mean by that? Was she implying he was meddling? He had just wanted to stir things up a bit and make his presence known. He had not expected to be shut down so coldly.
“You two find your own place to eat,” Chantelle said, then walked toward Andrew. “I’m going to check in with Mr. Lloyd.”
Ralph quickly offered, “Ms. Garcia, I’ll go with you!”
Chantelle turned back and said coldly, “No need.”
Ralph forced a smile, but the jealousy in his eyes was unmistakable.
Once Chantelle was out of earshot, Magnus chuckled. “Ralph, wanting to live off a sugar mama isn’t impossible. But you need to know your limits. Can’t you see that Ms. Garcia only has eyes for Mr. Lloyd?”
Ralph’s expression darkened. “You’re wrong, Mr. Veyne. She might not be interested in me now, but to say she only cares about Andrew? I don’t buy it. They’re just business partners. And I will have plenty of chances to get close to her on this trip. She’s cold as ice, but I’ll melt her heart once I find the right moment, just like I did with those rich ladies in Blumedale. Once that happens, she’ll be mine to play with.” He laughed to himself, lost in his perverted fantasies.
Magnus shook his head. “Let me give you some advice: don’t chase unrealistic dreams. Ms. Garcia isn’t like other women. Your usual tricks won’t work on someone like her. She’s a strong woman, and only a man stronger than her, someone who can truly dominate, can win her over.”
Ralph grinned, “Well, that’s me. Just wait and see, Mr. Veyne. Once the treasure hunt begins and danger strikes, I’ll be the one saving Ms. Garcia repeatedly. She’ll have to see me differently.”
Magnus shrugged, “Alright, let’s see your performance. But I still think you can’t outplay Mr. Lloyd.”
Ralph snapped, “Really? Then you’re underestimating me. These rich guys are fragile. When danger comes, I want to see how he handles it. In the end, Chantelle will have to rely on me!”
In a local diner, Andrew ordered food and let Tiana, Natasha, and Jerry eat first. Then, he walked to the window and called home.
“Andrew, we’re all fine and miss you!” Lauren’s cheerful voice came through, full of concern. “How’s everything on your end?”
Andrew smiled and replied, “All good here. We’ll reach the site in about half a day. How are Fran and Aspen? Are they doing well?”
Lauren replied, “They’re great. They’re also worried about you. Be careful with the treasure hunt.”
Andrew said, “Don’t worry, I’ll be careful.”