No matter how much strength she put into it, Ivy still couldn't push Ryan away. This time was different from when they were in the office—perhaps back then, he had only been teasing her, which was why she could resist so easily. But tonight, he was serious, and when Ryan Blake wanted something, nothing could stop him.Mason had warned her, and yet, she hadn't believed him.Was it because Ryan Blake was just that strong, or had Ivy suddenly become weak? No one could say for sure. But what was undeniable was the battle waging within her—the struggle between her heart and her mind. She had to fight with all her might, while Ryan seemed entirely unaffected. He acted on instinct, driven by desire and raw need. And when a man was overcome by all three, he could easily lose his sense of reason, making self-control nearly impossible.How could she escape this mess? Ivy racked her brain for a solution. She knew she had to stay calm—any reckless action would only make things worse.Forcing hers
Once she was certain Ryan had left, Ivy could finally breathe a sigh of relief. The situation was becoming dangerous. If Ryan kept pursuing her like this, there would come a time when she wouldn’t be able to resist anymore. Just a little more earlier, and she would have lost the strength to fight against him. Luckily, he had chosen to stop before crossing the line. Truth be told, she had nearly given in to her natural desires and wished she had. But in the end, she managed to hold onto her limits. The strange sensation in her chest left her with a feeling of regret—regret that she hadn't surrendered to him. "That pain would be nothing compared to the heartbreak I’ll suffer later, when I love him and he abandons me," she muttered to herself, trying to hold onto her reasoning. Loving Ryan Blake seemed impossible to avoid, which was exactly why she had to struggle so hard to protect herself. Being with him felt eerily similar to the time she fell for Minh Trí. Before, she had neve
“Are you even listening to me, Ivy?”Seeing her friend lost in thought, Jena sighed and tried to snap her back to reality. It was frustrating—every time the topic of love came up, Ivy would zone out, leaving Jena talking to herself.“I’ve already moved on, but it’s not Luke or Ryan that I’ll continue with.” Ivy pulled her legs up onto the chair, speaking with boredom. “I never even considered this before, and now it’s suddenly being thrown at me. I really don’t know what to do.”“Luke and Ryan are both well-known, and the number of women chasing after them is beyond count. You’d be naive and downright foolish to reject something that any woman would dream of.” Jena scoffed, half-mocking, half-scolding. “You don’t know how lucky you are, no wonder you’re still single and alone.”“Look at yourself before you talk about others. Are you any better? You’re just as single as I am.” Ivy shot back.Instantly, Jena flew into a fit of frustration, grumbling and complaining. “And whose fault do
It turned out that the one who sent the flowers was Luke. Just as he had declared, he was officially pursuing Ivy. Oh, yet another guy trying to be romantic like in the movies. Why did everyone assume Ivy liked these old-fashioned, traditional courtship gestures?If it wasn't flowers, then it was gifts, movies, dinners, or strolls… She was honestly tired of it all. Not to mention, back when she worked as a rental girlfriend, she had done these things over and over again to the point of exhaustion. At that time, she had been nothing more than a machine, performing the perfect role of a girlfriend without truly experiencing any real emotions. It was boring, repetitive, and lacked any novelty or breakthrough. Was she being too cynical, or had her heart grown cold and indifferent?But looking at the variety of flowers and how they were arranged, it was clear that Luke had put a lot of thought into it. Roses symbolizes love, forget-me-nots represented loyalty, lilies stood for pure and sin
"Is it really that serious?" Ryan stopped reviewing the documents and looked up with a serious expression. This time, he was paying full attention. "Why are you beating around the bush and acting so mysterious?""You could say that..." Mason replied vaguely, deliberately trying to pique Ryan's curiosity. "This is important—something that even money can't necessarily buy."Contrary to Mason’s expectations, Ryan immediately shut down his little scheme with a response that felt like a bucket of cold water."Never mind, I don't want to hear it."Caught off guard, most people would have hesitated, but Mason wasn’t just anyone—he was Ryan’s best friend. Having known each other for years, they were well aware of each other’s habits and quirks. So, he remained unfazed and continued with his plan."That's boring. I was going to tell you about Ivy." Mason casually mentioned, immediately making Ryan reconsider. "But since you’re not interested, I’ll get back to work."As soon as he finished spea
Did Mason really think throwing a tantrum would work on Ryan? Ryan might be eccentric at times, but when he got serious, his mind was razor-sharp, always finding the best way to turn things to his advantage."Fine. If you stay silent, I won’t approve your leave request for the upcoming event," Ryan countered, flipping the situation. "That means you won’t be able to go on vacation with your family this year.""You’re abusing your power! That’s a violation of labor laws!" Mason protested, his tone accusatory. "A boss shouldn't exploit his employees like this!""I couldn’t care less. Ryan Blake fears nothing and no one. I say it, I do it. So, you better think twice before crossing me," Ryan declared arrogantly. His smug expression made Mason want to resort to violence rather than reasoning."Want me to throw you in jail for abuse of power and workplace harassment?" Mason threatened. "I have plenty of dirt on you.""Ryan Blake can afford the best lawyers," Ryan shot back, completely unfaz
"It's lunchtime, let's go."Ivy was fumbling around for her phone charger when his voice rang out. She looked up to see Ryan standing there leisurely, his eyes expectant. Strange. Wasn’t it supposed to be Ivy who had to make the first move before he would concede? Yet, despite his bold declarations earlier, he was now doing the exact opposite. A complete slap in the face, no doubt.Ryan was trying to act like those male leads in romance novels. Did he think that made him cool? Ridiculous—so ridiculous she could barely hold back her laughter. These guys always put on a show, trying to look impressive, but they never stopped to consider whether their target actually liked it or not. Ivy didn't want to say it out loud and hurt Ryan’s feelings, but honestly, his style wasn’t doing it for her at all.And why was he suddenly inviting her to lunch? Ah, right. He must have heard from Mason about his supposed romantic rival, and now he felt threatened. If he let her go even for a moment, she m
Ivy had successfully escaped from Ryan by the skin of her teeth. After fumbling around in front of the elevator for a moment, he turned back and returned to his room. He had completely lost his appetite and decided to skip lunch. On his way back, his deep black eyes casually swept across the hallway and landed on a large bouquet of flowers placed on the floor, right in the corner where Ivy had been sitting.Ryan immediately recalled what Mason had mentioned earlier—Luke had officially started pursuing her. That meant the flowers were undoubtedly from him.Luke Evans. Oh, he wasn’t just some nobody from nowhere—he was a rising star, someone exceptional. In terms of reputation, family background, capability, and appearance, he wasn’t lacking in any aspect, not even compared to Ryan Blake. Not to mention, his opponent was younger, and his personality—kind, well-mannered—was the complete opposite of Ryan’s. Just one glance was enough to see how hopeless his situation was. He was already s
That night, in a dark corner behind the school, Luke was ambushed.He hadn’t seen it coming. No one had ever dared to lay a hand on him this way before. But tonight, the darkness became a hiding place for the cowardly.A metal rod swung up from behind. Luke only heard the whoosh of the air before a sharp pain hit the back of his head, blurring his vision.He collapsed to the ground, but before he could react, another punch landed hard in his side."Damn it..." Luke staggered, trying to stand, but was kicked violently in the chest.A shout echoed through the silence."Ivy..."His voice barely left his throat when a figure rushed toward him.Ivy.Without hesitation, she kicked the person who was about to strike Luke again. Her movement was quick and precise, causing the attacker to fall to the ground. The remaining attackers froze for a moment before realizing that, despite being a teacher, Ivy was not someone to be easily bullied.She grabbed Luke’s arm, helping him to his feet."Are y
After several failed attempts, Luke still didn't give up and was determined to get back at Ivy. Knowing she often went to the storage room after school to collect teaching materials, he came up with a plan to lock her inside and teach her a lesson.One late afternoon, as the sunset painted the sky red, Luke quietly followed Ivy. When she entered the storage room, he quickly moved to shut the door behind her. However, before he could do so, a strong push from behind made him stumble and fall inside the room. The door slammed shut behind him, and the sound of the lock clicking shut echoed coldly.In the dim light, Luke heard footsteps fading away and a soft giggle. He realized that someone else, possibly someone with a grudge against him, had played a prank on him."Who's there?" Ivy's voice called from the corner of the room, wary."It's me, Luke," he replied, trying to stay calm."What are you doing here?" Ivy asked, moving closer."I... I came to check if you fell into my trap," Luke
The cafeteria of the juvenile detention center was always noisy and bustling at lunchtime, filled with those who didn’t care about the rules. In the middle of the crowd, Luke and his group were mocking a weak boy, knocking his food tray to the ground.“Pick it up, or do you want me to help you lick it clean?” One of the guys sneered.The sound of cruel laughter echoed as the poor boy bent down to pick up the crumbs, his hands trembling in fear. His eyes were red, but he bit his lip tightly, trying not to let the tears fall. The crowd around them stood by, some with their arms crossed indifferently, some laughing mockingly, but no one spoke up to help. A few others looked away, as if afraid that if they interfered, they would become the next target.Ivy had just entered, and the scene immediately caught her eye. A surge of anger rose in her chest, making her grip her food tray tightly. She hated this kind of bullying—hated the silence of those who only watched. With a deep breath, she
Mason and Tegan officially became husband and wife after a journey that was anything but rushed. At first, their marriage was merely an arrangement, not born out of love. But instead of letting the distance between them grow, they chose to take the time to understand each other, little by little, day by day. What started as simple conversations became the threads that connected them, and even their disagreements helped them see each other more clearly. Love did not come from obligation but from the moments they shared—quiet yet profound.On their special day, beneath the soft glow of the sunset on the beach, they exchanged vows in the presence of family and friends—those who truly wished them happiness. Gentle waves kissed the shore like a soothing melody, and the ocean breeze carried the sound of joyful laughter. When Mason took Tegan’s hand, their eyes met, speaking volumes without words. This was no longer just an arranged marriage—it was a choice of the heart.…One gentle morning
Ryan sat silently in the large armchair in the spacious living room, his eyes unconsciously drifting over the family portraits hanging on the walls. They captured the glorious moments of his lineage—lavish parties, strategic handshakes. But no matter how many times he looked, he couldn’t find himself in any of them.The sound of hurried footsteps interrupted his thoughts. His father, William, entered the room with his usual commanding presence. His face was stern, his sharp eyes fixed on Ryan. There was no need to guess—Ryan knew this conversation was inevitable."Ryan, you must understand that your marriage to Jena is not just a personal matter. It concerns the family's honor, the interests of the entire corporation," William’s deep voice carried weight with every word.Ryan lifted his head to meet his father’s gaze. There was no hesitation in his eyes, only a firm and unyielding determination. "I understand that very well. But I cannot marry someone I don’t love. I refuse to live a
Under the fading twilight, the soft melody from Ivy and Luke’s wedding still echoed behind, mingling with the laughter of the guests. But Zoe had no intention of staying any longer. This event had not gone the way she had hoped. Ivy had truly become Luke’s, and Ryan could do nothing but stand there, silently witnessing it all.Clenching her lips tightly, Zoe left the banquet in silence. She knew for certain that Ryan was drowning in despair and disappointment at that very moment. This was the perfect opportunity to approach him, to feign sympathy and understanding, and slowly make him forget Ivy and turn to her instead. If she was patient enough, she believed she could have Ryan.However, just as she stepped out of the wedding venue, a tall figure suddenly appeared in front of her, blocking her path. Zoe frowned as she recognized Mason."Get out of my way," she snapped, trying to sidestep him, but Mason stood firm like an immovable stone, his sharp eyes locking onto hers."Zoe, stop t
Amidst the whispers, the stares, and the uproar of a hall shaken by shocking news—her world suddenly fell silent.There was only him.Only his gaze.Only his words, reaching the deepest part of her heart."I'm an imperfect woman," Ivy confessed bravely."I'm also a man with many flaws," Luke responded immediately."I'm older than you," Ivy continued."I like mature women.""I can't have children.""I don't care where the children come from, as long as you're their mother.""You’re hopelessly stupid.""I love you, Ivy. Even if the whole world turns its back on you, I will still stand by your side. So, please, don't doubt my love."Luke gently tightened his grip on her hand, his eyes unwavering as he continued to pour out his heart."Ivy, please give me a chance," he said, his voice rough with emotion. "I don't ask for anything more than to fill the emptiness in your heart. I know you've suffered too much, endured too many losses that have made you unwilling to love or trust anyone agai
As announced, the wedding between Luke and Ivy took place the following morning. Ryan had initially refused to attend, unable to accept the reality, but in the end, he relented under Mason’s reasoning and forced himself to be there.The wedding reception was held at one of the most luxurious restaurants in the city. The venue was dazzling, adorned with fresh flowers and bathed in the warm glow of crystal chandeliers. Everything had been arranged overnight, a testament to the immense power of Luke’s family.Guests dressed in extravagant attire raised their glasses in celebration, but behind their polite smiles, whispers spread like wildfire, igniting a wave of speculation.On the large screen in the center of the hall, a series of images appeared—photos of Ivy intimately interacting with various men. One showed her holding hands with a man at a café, another captured her linking arms with someone as they left a hotel, and one even depicted her embracing a stranger in the dark.The enti
Before leaving, she suddenly paused and turned back to glance at the table beside her—where Ryan still sat, the wine glass in his hand trembling slightly under the warm glow of the lights.She tilted her head slightly, a gentle smile gracing her lips, yet it carried an unmistakable hint of provocation."Oh, right, Ryan," she spoke slowly, her voice soft but laced with sharpness. "I’d like to invite you to my wedding tomorrow. After all, we used to know each other. It would feel incomplete without you there."Ryan tightened his grip on the glass, his knuckles turning white. His eyes darkened, as deep as an abyss, yet his face remained composed, forcing an air of indifference.Luke said nothing, merely pulling Ivy away with effortless ease.Zoe, sitting beside Ryan, sneered as she noticed his tense expression."What’s wrong? Didn’t you always claim you didn’t care about her anymore? Then why are you so mad? I’d bet Ivy did that just to get back at you.""Shut up."Ryan’s sudden outburst