Chapter 449

Ivan stood on the platform, arms crossed, letting out a disdainful snort that showed his utter contempt.

“Andrew, what the hell are you doing?” Jerry shouted.

Andrew gave him a cold glance. “Since you’re badly injured and have already embarrassed the Rhodes family, you should stay quiet.”

Jerry’s fury triggered his stomach wound, making him wince. “Andrew, you can’t possibly beat this guy,” he hissed through clenched teeth. “Once you step into that ring, your life is in your own hands—do you understand that?”

He had seen many reckless young men like this before—all courage and no wisdom. In his experience, they usually ended up corpses.

“Andrew, we’ve warned you multiple times not to throw your life away!” one of the bodyguards shouted. “If you get yourself killed, that’s one thing, but you’ll be putting Ms. Rhodes in a terrible position! Get lost—you’re not as important as you think you are!”

The Rhodes family bodyguards were furious, openly scolding Andrew. Even though trembling with fear, none dared act recklessly. In their eyes, someone like Andrew should have been hiding in the crowd like a scared mouse. Stepping into the spotlight like this was suicide.

Andrew turned to Lauren with a faint smile. “Ms. Rhodes, it seems your people don’t believe in me. But what about you? Do you trust me?”

Lauren nodded firmly, her voice unwavering. “I trust you, Dr. Lloyd, now and always.”

That was the answer he sought. Without another word, he strolled casually toward the ring.

Jerry sighed and chuckled bitterly. “Miss, you’re sending this guy to his death. What are you thinking?”

Lauren’s expression hardened. “Jerry, you’re already badly hurt. It’s best if you stop talking.” She glanced at him and added, “Andrew just saved your life. Instead of thanking him, you’re trying to drag him down. That’s not fair.”

Jerry gritted his teeth. “I’m trying to save him! Do you realize how young he is? He’s barely lived! His bones are probably still soft!” He gestured toward the ring. “That guy’s mastered internal martial arts to the point of killing effortlessly. One hit and Andrew will die instantly!”

Chapter 449

Lauren crossed her arms and huffed. “I don’t see it that way.” Though she silently admitted Ivan’s skills were extraordinary, her faith in Andrew never wavered.

Ivan loomed over Andrew as he stepped into the ring, his voice dripping with disdain. “Kid, tell me why you’re here. Is your life so miserable that you’re looking for a quick end?”

Standing casually across from him, Andrew appeared completely relaxed. “I’ve already said—I don’t want to fight.” He paused. “But I won’t let Ms. Rhodes lose.”

Ivan sneered. “That’s the reason you’re willing to throw your life away?”

Andrew shook his head. “You’re not capable of hurting me, let alone taking my life.” He met Ivan’s gaze, his voice calm yet confident. “On the other hand, if I wanted to kill you, it wouldn’t be hard.”

The crowd erupted into mocking laughter. Rodney, Dean, and the Madblade Martial Academy students could not contain themselves.

“Did you hear that? He said killing Mr. Lincoln wouldn’t be hard! What a clown!”

“Not just arrogant—he’s delusional! I bet he’s got some kind of mental illness.”

“Mr. Lincoln, just knock him out with one punch! Show him why our internal martial arts reign supreme in Jayrodale!”

Rodney’s expression turned cold as he addressed Ivan. “Mr. Lincoln, don’t hold back. Whatever happens, the Madblade Martial Academy will take responsibility!”