Rising from the Ashes (Andrew) novel Chapter 345

Chapter 345 +25 BONUS Andrew spoke calmly , his tone steady but cutting Aspen , theres nothing wrong with a woman being proud and confident .

As long as she has the right to be proud , thats fine .

But if a woman is arrogant and foolish on top of it, shes bound to learn some painful lessons .

Aspen sneered , glancing sideways at Christina .

Christie , did you hear what this man just said ? He claims hes going to teach me a painful lesson Honestly , with an ex like that , I cant blame you for kicking him to the curb .

If you hadnt , I wouldve stepped in to help straighten him out myself .

Christinas face darkened as she cast a worried glance at Andrew .

Why was he so bold ? It seemed that he did not understand that going up against Aspen in a gamble like this was reckless .

Everyone , quiet down ! The gemstone challenge between Mr.

Lloyd and Ms.

Stevens is about to begin , Elsie announced , her voice rising above the crowd .

She turned to Andrew and Aspen , adding , Do either of you have any additional terms to set ? Aspen flashed a confident smile .

I have nothing to add .

I just hope Mr.

Lloyd wont start crying when this is over .

Andrews voice remained composed .

I do have something to add .

He paused briefly , letting the crowds anticipation build .

Whoever loses will forfeit all their winnings to the other person .

And since Ms.

Stevens enjoys excitement , lets make it interesting .

Every gemstone we choose must cost at least ten million dollars .

Is that too much for you , Ms.

Stevens ? The crowd erupted in a frenzy .

Ten million per stone ? Is Mr.

Lloyd trying to make Aspen gamble away her entire fortune ? This isnt just intense , its outright insane ! The winner will walk away filthy rich , while the loser gets completely wiped out .

You cant even call this a gamble anymore .

This is full blown , high stakes warfare ! Aspens confident smile began to fade , replaced by a shadow of unease .

But Aspen held up a hand , her expression resolute .

Relax , Christie .

I started this , and Ill finish it .

Andrew is just trying to rattle me with his theatrics , but Im not so easily shaken .

Still stunned by the sudden escalation , Elsie motioned toward the raw gemstones .

The terms are set .

Both competitors may now begin selecting their stones .

Her voice trembled slightly , even as she tried to maintain composure .

Aspen strode forward without hesitation , pointing to a stone she had chosen in advance .

Im ready .

This is the one .