Chapter 571
Finley silently cursed his hotheaded men. In Jayrodale, Andrew had become a powerful figure, with both Dylan and Natasha at his beck and call. With thousands of underground enforcers present, anyone reckless enough to start trouble would be hacked to pieces.
He sighed deeply, recalling his younger days when he had been just as cocky. Back then, fresh from Hidden Dragons, he thought he could take on anyone and anything. Nonetheless, after countless humiliations and close calls in Jayrodale, Finley had learned the harshness of reality.
The beatdowns, betrayals, and lures of the underworld had drained his fighting spirit. Recently, he had even sought help from a therapist.
“Stay put. Today, we’re just here to watch,” he muttered, downing his drink. “Right now, Andrew isn’t someone we can handle. But don’t worry, plenty of others want him gone.”
The Hidden Dragons’ enforcers exchanged uneasy glances. They could not believe how much Finley had changed. He used to be a ruthless tyrant, seizing wealth and women at will. Now, he was playing it safe, almost scared.
Meanwhile, Rodney from the Madblade Martial Academy approached Andrew, carrying a black, gold-trimmed tray.
“Andrew, congratulations!” Rodney greeted with a warm smile. “This is a token of our academy’s appreciation. We wish you great success. Please, accept it.”
Rodney’s demeanor was courteous, without a hint of hostility. Behind him, the other Madblade students stood tall and composed, saluting Andrew.
“Congratulations, Dr. Lloyd! May your name as a miracle doctor echo for generations!” they shouted in unison, their voices loud and clear across the entire venue.
For a moment, the entire crowd froze in shock, wondering what was going on. They were shocked that the Madblade Martial Academy had shown up to offer congratulations instead of causing trouble. Even Lauren and Francesca blinked in disbelief.
Lauren knew well that relations between Andrew and the academy had always been tense. Up on the VIP platform, Marvin chuckled heartily.
“Cedric, Mrs. Rhodes, it seems we worried for nothing. Come, let’s have a toast!”
Cedric raised his glass, smiling from ear to ear. “Dr. Lloyd’s influence is greater than I imagined. Even Madblade Martial Academy had to show respect. Impressive, truly impressive. Among the younger generation in Jayrodale, Dr. Lloyd is clearly leading the pack.”
“You’re too kind,” Marvin replied, grinning as he basked in the praise.
Cedric nodded in admiration. “Mr. Yates, raising such a prodigious talent must fill you with pride. I envy you. With Dr. Lloyd here, both Wealthroller Investments and your legacy are in good hands.”
Marvin beamed, savoring the moment. As a loyal steward to the Lloyd royal family, Marvin had seen Andrew grow from a child to the man he was today. Though he maintained professional respect for Andrew, he saw Andrew as the closest thing he had to family.
Watching Cedric and Tiana, Marvin could not help but feel proud. Andrew had surpassed his wildest expectations, and Marvin relished every opportunity to showcase his success.
Chapter 572