Rising from the Ashes (Andrew) novel Chapter 2412

Andrew let out a cold laugh. "Let's cut to the chase. The elder from the Divine Alchemist is one of Theon's people, right? And Theon's using his connections upstairs to push Brielle around and come after me, isn't he?"

Amari's voice dripped with bitterness. "That's exactly it. Andrew, when we get in there, if things look bad, maybe we should play it smart and let Theon have this one."

Andrew let out a cold snort. "Let him have it? I'm not interested in that. Worst case, I just walk away from Sovereign's Apothecary and start fresh somewhere else."

Before long, Brielle led the way into Theon's courtyard, her purple veil swaying gracefully behind her.

Andrew and Amari followed close behind.

"Madam Baxter, you've arrived! Please, have a seat," Theon called out cheerfully, standing up from where he had been chatting with an elderly man.

He flashed a warm smile at Brielle, but he completely ignored Andrew and Amari.

In the courtyard, Mikayla and Caden stood watching the scene unfold, their eyes gleaming with amusement as they glanced at Andrew.

Brielle stood tall and graceful, waving her hand dismissively. "Let's skip the pleasantries. You're certainly thoughtful, aren't you? The higher-ups send someone here, and instead of bringing him to me, you host him in your own courtyard.

"I wonder what people would think if they didn't know better. They might think you run Sovereign's Apothecary, not me. Am I merely a figurehead now?"

Theon rushed to respond. "Oh, Madam Baxter, you're killing me with those words. I'd never dare! You've always been in charge here. I'm just a humble alchemist. How could I overstep?"

Brielle's brow furrowed as she prepared to press further.

Titus's expression hardened. "Watch your tone, Brielle. You sound like you have a problem with me being here. For the record, this wasn't my idea. Mr. Bowen personally assigned me to come to Chetvine to straighten out Sovereign's Apothecary."

Julius Bowen was the mysterious leader of the Divine Alchemists.

Brielle laughed coldly and waved her hand, then sat down in the wooden chair below his position. "Don't try to pull rank by invoking Mr. Bowen's name, because I'm not intimidated by it. Now, let's discuss this openly. If you plan to 'fix' things, then do it. I'm listening."

Titus did not respond immediately. His gaze swept over the room and landed on Andrew and Amari. After a brief pause, he smiled faintly. "Mr. Goodman, it's been years, hasn't it?"

Amari clasped his hands politely. "Mr. Sterling. It's good to see you again."