Rising from the Ashes BY Only For You Novel

Chapter 562 +25 BONUS In Simons eyes , Andrew was nothing more than someone trying to show off beyond his means .

The presence of Natasha and Dylan 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 glance in Andrews direction .

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

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 congratulate 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 or later , 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 slapped 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 glared 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 .