Chapter 1
The private room on the top floor of the Starlight Hotel was deathly quiet. Gu Yanzhi had seen countless women throw themselves at him, but none had ever rejected a cooperation project that could turn her into a billionaire overnight.
Only the faint sound of ice cubes clinking in whiskey glasses cut through the silence. Gu Yanzhi sat on the leather sofa, his long fingers loosely wrapped around the glass. His black suit was crisp, his jawline sharp, and his dark eyes carried a coldness that kept strangers at bay.
He was the youngest CEO of the Gu Group, a man who controlled half the business lifeline of the city. Rumors said he was ruthless, decisive, and had never shown any softness toward anyone.
But at this moment, his gaze fell gently on the woman standing in front of the floor-to-ceiling window.
Xia Xingchen was wearing a simple white shirt and black slacks. Her hair was tied back neatly, revealing a clean and bright face. She was not looking at the luxurious night view outside, but at the documents in her hand, her expression focused and serious.
She had just rejected a cooperation proposal that could bring her huge benefits.
"Are you sure you don't want to reconsider?" Gu Yanzhi's low voice broke the silence. "This project will save you at least three years of hard work."
Xia Xingchen turned around, her eyes clear and firm.
"I don't need shortcuts that come with conditions. My career, I will build it step by step by myself."
Gu Yanzhi put down his glass and stood up. He walked toward her, his tall figure casting a shadow over her.
"Even if your husband is willing to pave the way for you?"
Xia Xingchen's ears turned slightly red.
Three days ago, they had gotten married in a low-key ceremony.
It was a contractual marriage at first, but somewhere along the way, the cold and distant CEO had become overly possessive and gentle.
She looked up at him. "Mr. Gu, I married you, not for you to support me. I want to stand by your side as an equal, not an accessory."
Gu Yanzhi stared at her bright eyes, and a faint smile appeared at the corner of his mouth.
"Very well." He raised his hand and gently tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. His thumb brushed lightly over her cheek, his touch possessive yet tender. "Then I will watch my wife build her own brilliant career."
Outside the window, the night wind blew, and the city lights sparkled like stars.
Little did they know, this "contractual marriage" would soon turn into a thrilling love story that would shake the entire business world.
Their story had only just begun...