Chapter 187  Lauren was shocked and exclaimed, “Even Mr. Weller Senior is here? Well then, let’s see what they’re really up to.”  Upon entering the main hall, Andrew noticed not only the Weller family members but also Christina. When she caught Andrew’s glance, Christina remained expressionless and turned.  away.  Harvey smirked, looking down at Andrew with contempt.  Lauren greeted Kane respectfully, acknowledging his status as one of Jayrodale’s most influential family patriarchs. His local influence sometimes exceeded even the mayor’s, particularly in matters concerning traditional martial arts circles.  “Lauren, it’s been years since I’ve seen you!” Kane chuckled before breaking into a cough, quickly covering his mouth with a white handkerchief.  Though Kane tried to be discreet, Andrew’s keen eye caught sight of blood on the cloth, and noting Kane’s pale complexion and dim eyes, he could tell the man was gravely ill.  “Mr. Weller Senior, if you’re unwell, we can discuss this another time,” Lauren offered considerately, hesitant to bring up the club purchase given his condition.  Kane waved off her concern: “It’s just an old condition. Let’s get down to business.”  Everyone took their seats, and Kane’s gaze lingered on Andrew. Even though it only lasted seconds, Andrew could not ignore the coldness and hostility in the man’s eyes.  “The Weller family has fallen on hard times, and with my illness, I have no choice but to sell the Oakridge Club for operating capital,” Kane explained slowly.  Lauren nodded sympathetically. “I understand your predicament, Mr. Weller Senior. Running a prestigious family business requires substantial daily expenses. Please be assured that the Rhodes family will help however we can.”  “You’re much more generous than your penny–pinching father. I like that,” Kane said, laughing.  “You know, you and Harvey would have made a perfect match. It’s quite a shame that fate had other plans.”  “You’re too kind, Mr. Weller Senior,” Lauren replied. “Harvey is far too accomplished for me. Besides, my heart now belongs to someone else.  Kane glanced at Andrew, “And I assume that would be Mr. Lloyd here?”  “Yes, Dr. Lloyd is indeed the one I’ve chosen,” Lauren confirmed without hesitation, causing Andrew to feel slightly embarrassed.  Behind Kane, Christina shot Andrew a cold, unreadable look,  +26 BONUS  Chapter 187  Kane forced a smile. “Mr. Lloyd is undoubtedly aline young man, and it’s no surprise he’s captured your attention. But I heard the Rhodes family has a strict tradition of arranging marriages within prestigious familles.  “Frankly, Mr. Lloyd’s background is… ordinary, to put it kindly. He lacks the kind of standing that would make such a union viable. From the perspective of a family head, I’d suggest you reconsider. It may be best for you both to part ways now and spare yourselves from unrealistic expectations.”