Rising from the Ashes (Andrew) novel Chapter 2487

Elaine had been talking for a while before realizing that Valerie had not heard a single word. She just kept pacing the living room, restless and irritated.

Elaine smiled faintly. "Valerie, what's wrong? You look like you're on edge."

Valerie stopped abruptly, her tone sharp. "On edge? Of course I am. I can't wait to see Andrew torn apart by Mr. Murphy Senior. If I'm not anxious for that, who would be?"

Elaine's smile deepened. "Well then, since you've said it yourself, I'll make sure your wish comes true. Sure, we're technically allies with Andrew and his people right now, but you know how partnerships are; they can end anytime. Whatever investment our family made means nothing compared to your feelings."

She added, "You want Andrew dead to reclaim your dignity, and soon enough, you'll have your justice."

Valerie's eyes darkened. "But what I really want is to see that bastard die by my own hand."

Elaine shook her head. "That's not going to happen. You already admitted you're not his match, so it's better to let Wilder handle it. Just sit tight and wait for the news of Andrew's death."

Valerie's face went pale. She lowered her gaze, and no one could tell what was running through her mind.

Elaine smirked. "Why so quiet now? I thought you'd be thrilled. After all, that man dared to humiliate you. His death should be the only way to make up for your loss, shouldn't it?"

Valerie clenched her jaw but said nothing. Her thoughts were a tangled mess.

Did she really want Andrew dead? Of course she did. At least, that was what she kept telling herself.

Elaine stood watching her retreating figure, her expression complicated. She murmured, "Valerie, you used to be my best friend. Honestly, I've envied and even hated you before. Your family name gave you the freedom to choose your own life, while the Theron family had nothing."

Her smile turned bitter. "I wanted power, independence, and status, so I did the only thing I could… I married your father. You've despised me ever since, and I can't blame you. But trust me, Valerie, it hasn't been easy for me either.

"Finnegan may be handsome, intelligent, and powerful, but there are still nights when I can barely stand being touched by him."

A faint, almost broken laugh slipped past her lips. "You never understood me back then. Every time you mocked me, it cut deep, until one day I started hating you too… I hated that your life seemed so much smoother than mine. But now, seeing you so desperate, so reckless for a man… I finally understand.

"Valerie, I wish you well. If something real ever happens between you and Andrew, even though he's not the kind of man you're supposed to be with, I'd still be happy for you. Because unlike me, you're still fighting fate instead of surrendering to it."