Chapter 576

Finley sneered, his voice laced with sarcasm. “You think using some reverse psychology is going to make me play the sucker and hand over more money?”

Andrew shook his head with a serious expression. “You misunderstand, Mr. Moore. I’m not trying to provoke you. This isn’t about greed for money.”

He gestured around them and added, “This is Moonlit Apothecary – Jayrodale’s most upscale medical center. We’re hosting some of the top figures in the city today. When guests give gifts here, we’re talking hundreds of thousands, sometimes millions in cash or more.”

Andrew glanced pointedly at the cash Finley had handed over earlier. “And yet, you come here and offer a measly 1500 bucks. I mean, really, Mr. Moore, how can someone of your standing think that’s enough?”

Finley clenched his jaw. “That’s on them if they wanna throw money around like idiots! I wasn’t even invited here, Andrew. You can’t expect me to be held to the same standard!”

Andrew chuckled softly. “Oh, if that’s the issue, then allow me to formally invite you now.”

Finley laughed angrily, his fists tightening on the table. “Too late for that. Even with your little ‘invitation,’ I’m not about to kiss your ass and hand you more cash! Don’t forget, we still have a few scores to settle.”

Andrew was unfazed by the hostility, flashing a smile. “Alright, fair enough. But whether you were invited or not, the fact is you came here, ate our food, and drank our wine, the same as the other guests. That makes you obligated to contribute to the occasion, doesn’t it?”

Finley’s eye twitched in frustration, wondering if Andrew was serious. He wanted to punch Andrew, but the bastard’s logic actually made sense.

Finley muttered curses under his breath, realizing he had trapped himself. He had eaten here. If word got out that he stiffed the host after dining like a king, his reputation would take a hit.

After checking his pockets and realizing he was out of cash, Finley sighed and turned to his men. “Empty your wallets. We’re giving him what he wants.”

The Hidden Dragons men scowled but grudgingly complied. After all, they thought the food was nothing grand, and the 1500 dollars were more than enough.

Collectively, they managed to scrape together another 5000 dollars, which Finley slammed on the table in front of Andrew. “Here – 5000 dollars! That’s more than enough now!”

Andrew calmly handed the cash to Lauren. “Lauren, count it, please. We wouldn’t want to be shortchanged.”

“Of course!” Lauren giggled, clearly enjoying the situation as she began counting the bills.

Finley’s face twitched in pure rage as he thought, ‘Seriously? He doesn’t even trust me to hand over the full amount?’

He could not believe how greedy Andrew was.

After a few moments, Lauren smiled and announced, “5328 dollars, Dr. Lloyd!”

Andrew nodded in satisfaction before turning his gaze back to Finley. His eyes twinkled mischievously as he leaned closer. “You know, Mr. Moore, all totaled, your contribution is just a little over 6000 dollars. It’s almost… insulting. You’re not trying to shortchange me, are you?”

Finley’s face turned a deep shade of red as he glared daggers at Andrew. He finally understood – Andrew was not going to let him off without squeezing every last dime.