Rising from the Ashes (Andrew) novel Chapter 2540

Melvin finally lost his patience and snapped, "Madeline, are you out of your mind again? Do you even realize how childish you sound at your age? Apologize to Mr. Orben, right now!"

Madeline's tone stayed icy. "Sorry, but that's not happening."

Melvin's anger flared even hotter at being defied in front of everyone. "And what if I insist? If you refuse, then get out of the Webster family!"

What was supposed to be a business discussion had now turned into a heated family argument right in front of their guests.

Madeline's eyes reddened as she stared at her brother stubbornly, refusing to back down.

Helda sighed softly but chose to stay silent.

Melvin pointed at her furiously. "Do you even know how much shame you've brought to this family? You're old enough to know better, yet you still live at home, unmarried. People think the Websters are so poor we can't even afford a proper wedding!"

He continued, "But I never held that against you. You've always been difficult and impulsive, but I let it slide because you're family. I've even taken the blame for you countless times.

"But look at you now, Maddie! What have you done for this family lately? Instead of helping, you just keep bringing us more trouble. Tell me, have I been too easy on you all these years?"

Tears welled up in Madeline's eyes. "Melvin, you've been saying the same thing for decades. If you no longer want me here, that's fine. I'll leave."

Melvin gave a cold laugh. "Oh, so now you're standing up to me? Go ahead, then. Let's see how far you make it out there. You're old, Madeline. The world's changing every day. If you walk out on this family now, do you really think you can survive on your own?"

Andrew shot him a cold glare. "Shut your mouth, old man. This doesn't concern you."

He then turned to Melvin and said calmly, "I'm Andrew Lloyd. Amari and I may not have been invited, Mr. Webster, but tell me, is this the royal palace? Don't tell me we're not even worthy of setting foot in your home?"

Melvin's expression hardened. He had not expected Andrew to speak so boldly. The nerve of this kid coming into his home and talking like that.

He shot to his feet, his finger trembling as he pointed at Andrew. "Ignorant brat. I know exactly who you are, the Lloyd family's Dragon Prince. But don't think that gives you any special treatment here.

"You barge into my home and insult me in front of everyone, and I'm supposed to let that slide? If I still treat you with respect after this, what would others think of my family?"