Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren)

Mason's second son, Riley Ulrich, was relatively normal. Well, at least compared to the youngest. However, his interests leaned on the eccentric side.

Andrew finally met Riley outside a bar. "You guys are the ones looking for me? Make it quick, alright? Don't interrupt my nightlife."

He had a side part hairstyle, wore flashy, colorful clothes, and had heavy makeup. The second he opened his mouth, the overwhelming diva energy hit them like a brick wall.

Logan frowned hard. "Dylan, are you sure this is Mason's son?"

Dylan raised both hands. "Mr. Keller, certified and verified. If you don't believe me, ask him yourself."

Logan turned to the flamboyant man in front of him. "Is your dad Mason Ulrich? As in, the head of the Ulrich family?"

Riley fluttered his fingers dramatically. "Ugh, how rude! Calling my daddy by name like that. But since you're kinda hot, with that rugged bad-boy thing going, I'll forgive you this time."

Logan looked like he was about to throw up, his face turning two shades darker.

Rachel covered her mouth, trying not to laugh. "Mr. Lloyd, this one's yours. You've got the looks to handle a spicy diva like this."

Andrew suppressed his discomfort and got straight to the point. "I've got an opportunity for you to become the head of the Ulrich family. Are you interested or not?"

Riley was about to sassy-shout a flat-out 'hell no', until he got a good look at Andrew's chiseled jaw and piercing eyes. His entire demeanor shifted in a snap.

"Oh my goodness! How is a man this fine allowed to exist in Blumedale? And what is this? Are those abs? Can I touch them, pretty please?"

As he spoke, he reached out toward Andrew's chest.

Andrew inexplicably got goosebumps all over. He quickly jumped back with a warning look and said, "I'm asking you about serious business. If you're not interested, then pretend I never said anything!"

Riley pressed two fingers to his chin and giggled sweetly. "What I like most are beautiful men! As long as you're willing to play with me, I'll agree to any request you have!"

Logan egged him on, "Andy, I think it could Cork. Why don't you just

iney and support him a

puppet head of the Ulrich as bel

Rachel laughed until she was doubled over. "I have no objections!"

Andrew shot them both a death glare. "Get lost, both of you."

Then, he turned back to Riley. "Look, you're clearly into handsome guys. I can hook you up, but I'm not on the menu."

Riley pouted. "Can you at least

introduce someone hotter than you?

elgetnoveldrama

I'm not picky about personality

care about looks!"

Andrew pointed at Dylan. "What about him? Rugged, manly, full-on savage man vibe."

Riley looked personally offended.

"Ew. I

like

Couldn't even glance at aunet

I want someone handsome,

gorgeous!"

preferably devastatingly

Dylan looked depressed, his face clearly saying, "Why is it always me who gets insulted?"

Andrew pointed at Logan again. "What about him? He's handsome enough, right?"

Riley reluctantly nodded. "He's not you, but he'll do."

Andrew was delighted, "Perfect. From this moment on, he's your boyfriend."

Riley giggled and sashayed over, batting his lashes at Logan. "Babe, come help me walk. My heels are killing me."

Logan almost gagged, disgusted by Riley acting and speaking so coquettishly. He silently cursed Riley for being a freak.

However, under Andrew's sharp gaze, he forced himself forward and let Riley cling to his arm.

Andrew said, "Good. You got your eye candy. Now it's your turn to follow my arrangements."