After a while of silence, Ivy spoke hesitantly."What? Do you want to?""Tell me, how much do I need to pay to sleep with you?"What? Looking at her face, she seemed utterly shocked. He was just too blunt. He didn't bother to consider Ivy's feelings, whether she was hurt or not.Ryan's patience had run out. He couldn't contain the desire of a man for her anymore.As for herself, Ivy really should have been angry at the insult, but instead, she was confused by his unusually strange tone. There was no contempt in it; instead, it was affectionate, something quite noteworthy.Faced with the boss's expectant gaze, Ivy had to provide a sincere answer."It depends." Ivy finally regained her composure. "It depends on who it is, and the simple yet crucial thing is that person has to be someone I like. Otherwise, no matter how much you pay, it won't mean anything. I have principles in some matters, and choosing a lover is one of them. There are always certain criteria."She ended with a gentle
Their eyes still locked, and suddenly Ryan's heart beat faster than before at the close-up beauty of Ivy. The current sensation ruling his heart felt entirely unfamiliar, appearing for the first time, causing Ryan to feel slightly disoriented in perception."Are you teasing me?" She suddenly asked seriously, and just like that, all of Ryan's romantic feelings seemed to vanish."Stop right here." Ivy raised her hands in a gesture, creating distance. "I will hand over everything to your new secretary as soon as possible."Ryan disagreed. Deep down, he didn't want Ivy to leave.After speaking, Ivy slowly freed herself from his hold, but Ryan wouldn't allow it. He insisted on keeping her in place, even bringing his face closer to hers."What do you want? Let me go," Ivy softly requested."Right now, I want you," Ryan gently declared, his tone and choice of address changing casually. "And I don't like rejection."Words turned into actions as Ryan's mischievous hand gently held Ivy's stubbo
Despite her reluctance and feeling the need to speak up, Tegan gathered her courage to begin."How can you treat Mariko like that? Where's the fairness when you mistreat your unmarried wife while vigorously defending another girl?" Tegan's tone was slightly accusatory."If you forget, I'll remind you that the engagement is off. I've made the news public," he emphasized, visibly irritated. Each mention of the forced marriage seemed to infuriate him. "And I trust my judgment about people just as much as you insist on the innocent, saintly appearance of the person outside that door. Tegan. Be careful not to be fooled." He seems to refer to Mariko, but Tegan ignores his warning.Luke added, "If you need evidence for what I'm saying, I'm ready to provide it for you.""Evidence? Evidence for what?" Tegan furrowed her brow in confusion."Someday you'll see for yourself," he said cryptically. "For everything that happens.""Luke, what's gotten into you? Tell me, What did that girl do to make
Even though Luke's demeanor was completely serious, affirming Tegan's prediction as accurate, she still found it hard to believe."How could this be?" Tegan exclaimed after a moment of confusion, her disbelief evident. "It's like a joke. Not funny at all, Luke."Luke simply smiled, using the opportunity to gracefully conclude the discussion."Well, I have nothing more to say. It's best for you to get back to work."He didn't want to delve too deeply into the past, as he wasn't ready to share with anyone how wonderful Ivy truly was. It wasn't that he enjoyed hiding things; rather, there were enemies out there. Walls have ears, and Luke wanted to avoid bringing trouble upon himself and Ivy. He wasn't afraid of anything bad happening to him; he just couldn't bear the thought of anything related to Ivy. "And don't forget to escort that wicked girl outside to help me." He requested. "Pass on to her that when I'm still kind, she should take note, or else it will surely be a sad story."Luk
Ivy took advantage of the end of her shift to meet acquaintances in the legal field before heading home. She was seeking their assistance in bringing the matter to legal proceedings. Ivy wasn't fond of empty threats or idle boasting. She preferred to deal with wrongdoers directly when they crossed the line, which was always her approach. Regardless of others' opinions of her, she lived without shame, guided by her conscience. Don't think Ivy's silence implies acquiescence or underestimates her ability to resist. It's wrong, entirely wrong.Don't underestimate Ivy's innocence. She can pull off unexpected tricks. Look closely, and you'll see her strike back at wrongdoers without hesitation.As always, her haughty demeanor drew all eyes to her. The café seemed prosperous today, bustling with patrons. A scene unfolded: single youths, still without partners, gazed admiringly at Ivy. She remained herself, indifferent to romantic glances, serene amidst the whirlwind of life. Surveying the sp
The next day, the morning news reported that a young man had been arrested for spreading false rumors, causing serious damage to Ivy Green's reputation. The police were continuing their investigation to find the mastermind. According to legal regulations, the culprit could face the maximum penalty, up to ten years, as the victim did not withdraw the complaint. Subsequently, social media platforms began to follow suit, with previous posts about Ivy being taken down. It could be said that Ivy acted swiftly, and moreover, she handled the situation neatly and cleanly.Today, Ivy went to work in an extremely cheerful mood, always holding her head up high. People in the company quickly spread the news, knowing the truth about the situation. Therefore, their demeanor towards Ivy was different from yesterday when they saw her. Humans are indeed a funny species, with their attitudes changing like the weather. Just yesterday, they were hurling insults, looking disdainfully, but now, when they s
Entering his private room, Ryan immediately searched for the information Mason had just revealed. Indeed, all the posts defaming Ivy had been removed. Moreover, he also found an article about Ivy suing the person spreading false information about her. What's even more astonishing is that Ivy herself made a video about her life. She expressed her personal feelings, openly discussing everything she had been through since the false rumors appeared. She also revealed her job as a hired girlfriend, which was completely legal. It didn't affect anyone negatively; on the contrary, it helped many people find happiness, even if only temporarily. Then she posted it online, along with a statement that she would not tolerate any bad actors who were or would harm her. The five-minute video told a complete and concise story.Wow! It could be said to be very impressive. Ivy's strategy was extremely brilliant. Ryan felt compelled to believe what he was seeing because he saw sincerity in every word and
Exhausted! Thinking too much gave me a headache, but whatever he did was his business, and Ivy's situation was her own concern. Ivy just needed to be herself, regardless of the circumstances. Why bother about others' affairs? Ivy was confident that no one could easily coerce or intimidate her."May I know what your motive is?" Ivy delicately probed, then applied her analytical skills to provide an answer. "What benefits do you gain from hiring me? Wealth, fortune, love, or something else... Ultimately, what do you want? Are you playing with me because you're bored?"Ivy was gradually losing her composure, and it wasn't difficult for Ryan to notice how his decision was affecting her. Indeed, in Ivy's mind, he was just playing with her. But the truth this time was entirely different. Ryan wanted to redeem himself, which is why he offered her a new position. However, instead of being clear and courteous, he chose his own way, which could easily lead to misunderstandings and Ivy's displea
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