Chapter 562  In Simons eyes , Andrew was nothing more than someone trying to show off beyond his means .


    The presence of Natasha and Dn at the grand opening of Moonlit Apothecary surely came at a hefty price .


    To him , it was clear Andrew had spent a fortune just to get these big shots to show up and boost his event .


    Without the money , Simon believed they would not even nce in Andrews direction .


    Feeling like he had figured everything out , Simon grew more dismissive , even letting out a coldugh .


    However , his smirk faded when he saw the Rhodes family delegation arrive , led by Tiana herself , a woman with a legendary reputation .


    If that was not shocking enough , Simons jaw dropped further as Jayrodales mayor , Mark , stepped out of his car with his secretary , grinning warmly , he walked over to congratte Andrew .


    Unbelievable , Simon muttered to himself , his jealousy and frustration rising .


    Have these big shots really stooped so low to show up here for Andrew ? Dont they care about lowering their status ? Francesca , standing nearby , caught his reaction and smirked .


    Simon , looks like weve got societys elites and even the mayor here .


    What excuse do you have left now ? Simon sneered in response .


    Fran , youre obviously biased because hes your boyfriend .


    But isnt he already with Lauren ? Francescas face flushed , her cheeks burning with anger and embarrassment .


    So what if Andrew is with Lauren ? They make a perfect couple .


    Are you seriously jealous of that too ? Simon scoffed .


    Jealous ? Of him ? Please , hes nothing but a facade .


    Mark my words the Rhodes family will kick him out sooner orter , and hell end up on the streets like a stray dog .


    1 Francescas expression softened with pity .


    Lets be honest , Simon .


    Youre just jealous .


    Her calm words hit a nerve , and Simon exploded .


    Jealous ? Youve been lying to me all along , Fran ! You said you .


    were with Andrew , but clearly , thats not true .


    And now , youre defending him even though hes with Lauren ? Have you no shame ? Anger surged through Francesca as she pped Simon hard across the face .


    Youre right .


    I lied to you about being with Andrew .


    So what ? Even if Im not with him , that doesnt mean itll ever be you ! Her voice grew colder as she added , The truth is , Simon , the way you act this petty , possessive , and ugly behavior it disgusts me .


    Without waiting for his response , Francesca turned and walked away , leaving Simon humiliated and fuming .


    He held his cheeks , his eyes filled with a dangerous mix of rage and humiliation .


    He grumbled , Fine , Francesca .


    If I cant have your heart , Ill make sure I take the rest of you Simons mind raced with resentment as he red after her retreating figure .


    Francesca had always been his in his eyes , a prize he believed he deserved .


    Now , knowing that she was not dating Andrew after all , his feelings of humiliation only grew .


    He vowed to make Francesca his , by any means necessary .


    As for Andrew ? Simon clenched his fists and smirked bitterly .


    Taking Francesca away was not enough .


    He wanted to see Andrew ruined , humiliated , and broken .