Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren)

"A bit of character?" Francis paused, clearly displeased, and his tone quickly turned sharp. “Listen-if you don't understand something, don't go throwing opinions around.

"The Phelans are the pinnacle of prestige in Gabo Creek. And this estate you're looking at? Do you have any idea how far back it goes? During The Solarian Period, it was the residence of a high-ranking statesman!"noveldrama

His words dripped with pride as though he was speaking of sacred history.

Andrew replied casually, "The renovation and design definitely have that classic charm. But the layout feels a bit unbalanced, geomancy-wise. And the gardens? A little too flashy, too much Valemonian style. It's missing that Holtrien grace–that quiet, dignified simplicity. It just doesn't flow."

Francis' face darkened. He had not expected Andrew to double down-much less critique his work directly.

The idea of a kid from Jayrodale thinking he knew anything about geomancy or landscape design was laughable. Francis snapped, "You're saying the garden I personally designed is too loud and not refined enough? Alright then -enlighten me. What brilliant ideas do you have?"

Just then, a soft yet commanding female voice echoed across the gravel path, followed by the sharp click-clack of tall boots on stone. Andrew turned his head and saw a tall woman in full military dress approaching.

Though the uniform leaned masculine, there was no hiding her striking beauty- almost dangerously so. However, what caught his attention was the gold star on her shoulder.

She was a major general.

Francis' attitude shifted immediately. He bowed slightly and said with reverence, "Miss, you've arrived."

Luna Phelan gave a small nod, her gaze already locked onto Andrew, calm and unwavering. Her eyes reminded him of a deep, still lake-tranquil on the surface, impossible to read beneath.

Francis turned and barked, "What are you doing just standing there? You need to greet her properly!"

However, Luna raised a hand slightly, signaling she did not need the formality.

She asked, "What's wrong? Speechless at the sight of a uniform?"

There was no mockery in her tone-no sarcasm, no prideful smirk. Just cold neutrality.

Andrew thought to himself, "This woman isn't just proud. She's absolute.'

He had known plenty of confident women-Christina, Aspen, even Francesca in her sharpest moments.

Yet, Luna was not dramatic, nor was she loud she was still. Still in a way that said nothing could touch her. That level of calm did not come from confidence-it came from an unshakable sense of superiority. swnovel

"Nice uniform-you wear it better than most," Andrew said, his voice calm but firm. "To be a major general at your age? That's rare even

in Holtrien's military."

belongs to swnovel

Luna corrected him without missing a beat. "No. Not 'rare' extraordinarily rare.

Though personally, I prefer words like 'one of a kind'... or 'unrivaled.""

Andrew shook his head. "Great words. Just not quite earned yet-not by

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That flawless face of hers tightened just slightly. The first crack in her polished composure.

Francis, meanwhile, nearly exploded. "How dare you speak to Ms. Phelan like that! Are you tired of living? She's

Mr. Phelan Senior's most beloved granddaughter! She's the crown jewel of the family-and one of the top military prodigies in all of Holtrien! And you've got the gall to say she's not worthy?" swnovel

Francis was livid. In a city like Blumedale, saying something like that out loud could get Andrew ripped apart by Luna's admirers in a heartbeat.

However, Andrew remained perfectly calm. "Just speaking honestly. The Phelans are supposed to be a noble family-don't tell me they can't handle a little truth?"

Francis' eyes burned with fury, and he raised his hand, clearly ready to strike.

Just then, Luna's voice cut through like a blade. "Francis. Don't forget your manners."