Chapter 567
Andrew had not expected his clinic’s grand opening to draw such a large crowd. The flow of congratulatory gifts from different guests kept him busy.
Fortunately, Dylan acted as his de facto manager, overseeing the collection of gifts and seating arrangements for the visitors.
Meanwhile, Francesca and Lauren threw themselves into hosting duties. They moved gracefully through the crowd, ensuring everyone had enough food and drinks, their faces glowing with joy. Both women were determined to make the event a success.
However, Tiana watched all this with a growing scowl. Seeing Lauren, the celebrated heiress of the Rhodes family and the city’s most admired beauty – her own daughter acting like a mere server – was more than she could tolerate.
“Jerry,” Tiana snapped, “go get Lauren. My daughter is not meant for menial tasks like this!”
Before Jerry could move, Marvin chuckled from his seat next to her. “Come now, Mrs. Rhodes. They’re young and enjoying themselves. Let them have this experience.”
Tiana’s tone hardened. “If she wants experience, she should be learning to manage Rhodes Corporation as its future CEO, making strategic decisions, not acting like a country maid at Andrew’s beck and call!”
Marvin shook his head, unfazed. “With all due respect, I think you’re missing the point. Lauren seems to be genuinely happy. And besides, what’s wrong with helping Mr. Lloyd? They’ll be family soon enough.”
Tiana’s face darkened with fury, and she slammed her hand on the table, causing the tea to spill. “Marvin! I’ll warn you now – Andrew thinking he can pursue Lauren is a delusion. Who does he think he is? And don’t think I don’t see your game. You’re using Andrew to bait Lauren and drag Rhodes Corporation into your schemes. I won’t allow it!”
Her cold, commanding voice silenced nearby conversations. Even Jerry looked uncomfortable.
Everyone knew Tiana had a volatile temper – cold as ice but quick to ignite like wildfire. Few dared to challenge her, not even her husband, the head of the Rhodes family.
Despite her outburst, Marvin remained calm and unbothered. “Mrs. Rhodes, do you truly believe Lauren is lowering herself by being with Andrew?”
“It’s not about lowering herself,” Tiana hissed. “It’s degrading and absurd! Let me be clear – Lauren is already engaged to someone from the Driscoll family in Blumedale. Andrew isn’t even close to being worthy. You’d do well to control him!”
Marvin smirked. “I hate to disappoint you, but that’s not something I can do.”
Tiana’s eyes narrowed with cold rage. “Marvin, you’re mocking me! This isn’t a game.”
Marvin raised his hands in feigned surrender. “I wouldn’t dare mock someone as powerful as you, Mrs. Rhodes. But you misunderstand – Andrew doesn’t answer to me. It’s quite the opposite.”
Tiana growled, “Don’t twist the facts with your riddles, Marvin! I see right through you. Whatever you’re plotting with Andrew, Rhodes Corporation and my daughter are off-limits.”
At that moment, Cedric approached with a friendly smile. “Mr. Yates, Mrs. Rhodes, mind if I join the conversation?”
Despite his eccentricity, Cedric’s reputation as a renowned miracle doctor gave him significant influence. After all, people often needed a skilled doctor more than money or power.