Rising from the Ashes (Andrew) novel Chapter 1429

Andrew nodded thoughtfully. "That does sound decent enough! But compared to me, you're still lacking in many ways!"

Duncan exploded with rage. "Andrew, stop spouting nonsense! Lacking in many ways? Then tell me exactly what qualifications you have to compare with my family!"

Andrew snorted coldly and spoke with measured calm, "In martial arts, I could destroy your entire family with one hand—does that count as a qualification? Experience? Ha! That's never been about age or how long you've been around!

"Having real strength and getting things done—that's what experience truly means! As for reputation, I wonder if being the Grand Medical Summit champion and currently Blumedale's most sought-after figure gives me enough standing to compete with you?"

Duncan's expression finally changed. It shifted from arrogance to wariness, then to explosive anger. This damned kid was clearly determined to fight him for the Chamber of Commerce chairman position.

The other members also became conflicted. Several who had previously followed Duncan's lead now showed hesitation in their eyes. They were looking toward Andrew, considering whether they should switch sides.

George sat at the head of the table, leisurely sipping his tea. Then, he smirked—this was exactly the effect he had aimed for.

Nominations were just words, and Andrew himself had to demonstrate real power and dominance. If Andrew were useless, then even if George nominated him or forced him into the chairman position, he would likely be ousted within days.

Emily sneered. "Andrew, even if your overall capabilities are convincing! You're still ultimately just a newcomer! The Gabo Creek Chamber of Commerce represents the interests and dignity of established powers like us! As a newcomer, you simply cannot command our trust and respect!"

Duncan immediately chimed in, "Exactly! Ms. Emily is absolutely right! Andrew, you do have the qualifications to be chairman—you're perfect in every aspect! But the one thing you lack is seniority.

"Even if you joined our Chamber of Commerce right now! You'd have to wait until the next chairman election for your chance, so just sit back and wait your turn!"

Duncan burst into loud laughter after finishing his speech. He had been wheeling and dealing in the Gabo Creek Chamber of Commerce for nearly 30 years. He knew every member inside and out and had built substantial relationships with all of them.

Emily let out a huge sigh of relief. She had failed, but at least Andrew was not succeeding either. Otherwise, it would make her look even more incompetent than him.

Duncan laughed heartily, "See that, Andrew? This is the influence that comes with experience and relationships! Even if you meet all the qualifications, you still don't have what it takes to compete with me!"

Andrew replied coolly, "Is that so? I think you're celebrating too early, Mr. Irving Senior! I can promise you right here and now—as long as I'm around, you won't get that chairman position even in your dreams!"

Everyone gasped in shock.

The Keller sisters burst into mocking laughter, unable to believe Andrew's continued arrogance. They truly could not understand where his confidence stemmed from.