Rising from the Ashes BY Only For You

Rounding the screen, Andrew stepped into a room that oozed classic elegance and femininity.

Everything inside, from the painting to the curated instruments and decor, spoke of refined taste and artistry.

A soft purple veil hung from the canopy over the bed, trailing to the plush carpet below, completely obscuring what lay behind it.

Victoria's voice came from inside again. "Mr. Lloyd, please find yourself a place to sit!"

Andrew replied, "Mrs. Peck, this is your private chamber, and I think it's best I remain standing. I only came by to pay my respects. If you're feeling unwell, I can always return another day."

A melodious laugh rang out, and Victoria's voice turned teasing from behind the veil. "Aren't you being all respectful? I'm guessing that bitch Tiana taught you to do this, right? Let me guess... She not only taught you to be well-behaved and keep a low profile in front of me!

"She also told you that I'm a shameless flirt, a woman who only knows violence and nothing else, right?"

Andrew could not help but feel his scalp tingle. Victoria was definitely not someone to underestimate. After all, Tiana indeed said those things to him.

What made it worse was how soft and sweet her voice was, like she was a gentle, lovesick woman rather than someone terrifying enough to make the entire city tread carefully.

Anyone who did not know better might be fooled into thinking she was just an elegant, tender noblewoman.

knew that behind that curtain was not some fragile

caught a cold these past few days and have been feeling quite unwell. I've heard that you have amazing medical skills and great talent, and are now Blumedale's renowned Grand Physician.

care how suspicious it looked or what

sat by the curtain's edge. From behind it, a pale, slender

was almost impossibly

me," Andrew said, reaching for her wrist

moment his fingers touched her skin, that graceful hand suddenly twisted and locked down on his with

low voice, "Mrs. Peck, what

Mr. Lloyd, someone

pull his hand free, but her grip held tight.

in place like

to say," Andrew said flatly. "But

I'll be forced

voice had

the veil, Victoria answered without concern. "Don't

be the