Chapter 316 Lauren had talked so much that her mouth had gone dry .


    She grabbed her ss of water and downed it inrge gulps .


    Andrew watched her , his lips twitching harder with every passing second .


    He was almost certain now Laurens wild assumptions resulted from reading too marry trashy romance novels or binge watching overly dramatic soap operas .


    Everyone knew how deeply these kinds of shows could corrupt their audiences , especially when it came to women with overactive imaginations .


    After finishing their meal, they cleaned the kitchen together , washing the dishes until everything sparkled .


    It was not even seven yet , so Andrew thought briefly before suggesting , Ms.


    Rhodes , since its your first time visiting , how about I show you around ? Lauren hesitated , looking conflicted .


    Maybe another time , Dr.


    Lloyd .


    I really need to head back .


    Noticing how her fingers were fidgeting as if torn between staying and leaving , Andrew raised a brow in surprise .


    Its still early , Ms.


    Rhodes .


    Youre wee to stay a little longer if youd like to .


    Lauren shook her head .


    Its not about you .


    Its … my situation .


    She sighed and added , Lately , I cant stay out toote .


    Other than work or business , Im expected to go home right after my day ends .


    Andrew did not press further and simply nodded , Alright , let me walk you out then .


    Lauren smiled brightly .


    Sure .


    The two strolled through the courtyard and out the iron gate , walking all the way to Moonlit Sanctuarys main entrance .


    There , a group of bodyguards from the Rhodes family were already waiting .


    As soon as Lauren approached , the door of the first car opened , and a middle aged man in tactical gear stepped out .


    Miss , the man greeted.


    Lauren nodded .


    Lets go .


    She climbed into the car but not before shing Andrew with a warm smile and waving goodbye .


    Andrew waved back , but his gaze caught the man lowering the car window and giving him a cold , mocking smirk .


    Andrew remained expressionless .


    He recognized the man it was Jerry , the Rhodes familys elite fighter .


    Chapter 316 Jerry had never hidden his disdain for Andrew .


    Frankly , Andrew did not care enough to act friendly either .


    Inside the moving car , Laurens demeanor turned icy .


    Jerry , didnt I make it clear you didnt need to pick me up ? Sitting stiffly in the passenger seat , Jerry responded without emotion .


    This was all Mrs.


    Rhodes instruction .


    Lauren clenched her jaw .


    So what ? My mother sent you to spy on me ? Jerry did not deny it .


    Miss , you know full well that youre engaged .


    Mrs.


    Rhodes was furious when she learned you were spending so much time with Andrew .


    She specifically instructed us to ensure youre kept in check .


    Laurensugh was cold .


    So now I dont even have basic freedom or privacy anymore .


    Is that it ? Jerry was silent for a moment before sighing .


    Miss , theres something Ive wanted to say a long time , though I feared youd think I was overstepping .


    But today , Ill say it , even if it angers you you should cut ties with Andrew .


    Laurens voice hardened .


    And if I dont ? Jerry nced at her through the rearview mirror .


    If you dont , the next person involved wont be me .


    Itll be your mother , the matriarch of the Rhodes family herself .


    He paused before continuing in a grave tone .


    Mrs.


    Rhodes personally came down from Blumedale , bringing members of the main familys security team to Jayrodale .


    I trust you understand the weight behind this move .


    Lauren huffed , turning to look out the car window .


    She refused to say another word , her expression stormy as the car sped through the evening streets .