Chapter 174

“Kane, the head of the Weller family, is considering stepping down due to ill health,” Francesca said disdainfully. “But judging by Harvey’s stupidity and self-destructive behavior, the Weller family will be in complete ruin if he takes over!”

Andrew shook his head. “That’s the Weller family’s problem, not mine. I just hope Harvey doesn’t do anything too reckless.”

“If he gains control, someone as petty as him will undoubtedly target you,” Francesca frowned.

Andrew replied calmly, “Then I’ll ensure both he and the Weller family meet their end sooner rather than later.”

“Harvey has no idea what he’s getting into by targeting someone like you—a silent powerhouse!” Francesca giggled. “I’m getting chills just thinking about it.”

“I’m no powerhouse,” Andrew responded. “I believe in live and let live. Don’t provoke me, and I won’t provoke you.”

Francesca suddenly remembered something. “Oh no! I forgot to tell you Lauren went to the countryside to source medicinal herbs!”

Andrew’s brow furrowed. “Sourcing herbs? What could possibly go wrong?”

“This is Lauren’s first time managing the pharmaceutical division since becoming CEO of Rhodes Corporation,” Francesca explained anxiously. “Michael used to run that division, and he’s held a grudge ever since. Before she left, Lauren told me that if you still cared for her, she’d need your protection.”

Without another word, Andrew noted the location of the Rhodes Corporation’s herb farm and rushed out. He knew Michael’s ruthlessness; after all, he had already attempted to kill Lauren, his own cousin.

Furthermore, Andrew knew a more dangerous individual was pulling Michael’s strings. Their vicious nature suggested they would likely strike during Lauren’s herb-sourcing trip.

“Are you sure you should go alone?” Francesca called out, following him. “I can return to the Aicker residence and dispatch our security teams.”

“There’s no time,” Andrew replied, not looking back. “Besides, Ms. Rhodes is likely already under surveillance. The Aicker security teams won’t be much help.”

At the foot of a serene hillside, the Rhodes Corporation’s convoy had finished loading medicinal herbs onto several trucks and was preparing to depart.

“Miss, this year’s herb yield is down by nearly a third compared to last year,” Eunice, her secretary, reported quietly at Lauren’s car window. “If the pharmaceutical division doesn’t receive enough raw materials, half our key products could disappear from the market.”

Lauren, casually dressed for the countryside, frowned. “What’s happening? We were told it was a great harvest year with perfect weather. Why is production down?”

Eunice gritted her teeth. “The farm manager refuses to explain. He simply cites a shortage. But I spoke to some workers; they said it was a good harvest… It’s just…”

Lauren eyed her sharply. “Just what?”

“The farm manager is loyal to Mr. Rhodes,” Eunice whispered. “Without his orders, this is all they’ll provide.”

Lauren was furious. “That bastard Michael is definitely behind this. When I return, I’ll make him regret ever crossing me!”

She had expected Michael to attempt something during this trip, but she hadn’t anticipated his audacity.

“Tell the convoy to depart,” she ordered.