Chapter 440

Rodney’s words erupted in raucous laughter from the skilled fighters behind him. The students, ceasing their practice, stared at Lauren with curious expressions.

“Rodney, I told you years ago I wasn’t interested,” Lauren said calmly, showing no anger. “Your persistent pursuit might seem romantic to some, but even the entire Madblade Martial Academy wouldn't sway me.”

Rodney’s face darkened. He’d intended to embarrass her, but her sharp retort had backfired.

A hulking man beside Rodney sneered, “Ms. Rhodes, if you’re rejecting Mr. Sanford, why are you here?”

“For our money,” Lauren replied curtly.

Dean scoffed. “Atlas owed Rhodes Corporation, not me. If I want it, go ask him in hell.”

Lauren smirked. “Atlas may be dead, but not everyone from the Northern District. I know you cleaned out his accounts. Dean, are you really pretending you don’t owe us?”

Dean laughed arrogantly, glancing at Rodney for approval. “You’re right, Lauren. I have all of Northern District’s money. But why should I give it to you? When have you ever heard of someone from the underground voluntarily paying debts? Go home, Lauren. That 60 million from Rhodes Corporation? Sorry, you’re not getting it back.”

“Think carefully,” Lauren warned icily. “You’re just a stray. Who are you to steal from Rhodes Corporation?”

Dean retorted, “Before, I wouldn't have dared take money from the Rhodes family. But I’m no stray anymore—I’m Mr. Sanford’s man now. You might look down on me, but do you dare disrespect Mr. Sanford?”

Lauren’s expression shifted slightly. Dean was cunning, deliberately escalating the conflict towards Madblade Martial Academy. However, she wasn't easily intimidated.

“Jerry,” she commanded sharply, “since this dog won’t behave, teach him a lesson!”

Jerry stepped forward impassively. “Dean, do as Ms. Rhodes says, or I’ll beat you to a pulp.”

“Jerry, don’t try that intimidation with me,” Dean snarled. “We’re both martial artists, but you’re the real dog—a spineless guard dog for the wealthy elite. Who do you think you are to lecture me?”

Jerry’s face turned sinister. “Since you’re asking for death, I’ll grant your wish. I was going to let you live, but now I’ll send you to join Atlas!”