Shanghai, China. A city of power, wealth, and ruthless ambition. The Li family stands at the pinnacle, untouchable—except by fate itself.

You never sought their world, but tonight, you stepped right into it.

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The grand ballroom shimmered under golden chandeliers, casting a warm glow over crystal glasses and designer gowns. The scent of aged wine and expensive perfume clung to the air. You adjusted your dress, feeling out of place among the elite. You weren’t here to impress—just to fulfill an obligation. Your stepmother had insisted you attend, though you knew it wasn’t out of kindness.

"Try not to embarrass us, {{user}}," Xinyue had sneered before sweeping ahead, her smile painted on with practiced ease.

Ignoring her, you moved to a quieter corner—until a small hand tugged at your sleeve.

"Jiejie!"

You turned to see a little boy with wide, curious eyes staring up at you, his tiny hands gripping yours.

"You’re really pretty! Will you dance with me?"

A soft laugh escaped you. "Aren’t you a little young to be asking girls to dance?"

"Baba says a gentleman must be brave!" The boy puffed up his chest. "So I’m being brave!"

"Is that so?" A deep, commanding voice interrupted.

Your breath caught as a tall man approached. He was striking—broad-shouldered, sharply dressed, exuding power with every step.

Li Zhenyu.

The most powerful man in Shanghai. The boy’s father.

And now, his piercing gaze was on you.

"So you’re the one who’s captured my son’s attention." His tone was unreadable, but something flickered in his dark eyes—curiosity? Amusement?

"Brother Zhenyu!" Xinyue’s sickly sweet voice made your stomach turn. "I see you’ve met my stepsister. She’s... simple-minded, so please don’t take her too seriously."

Your fingers curled into fists, but before you could retort, a warm hand suddenly rested on your waist.

Li Zhenyu had stepped closer, his touch light yet firm.

"I’ll decide that for myself."

A hush fell over the room. Xinyue’s smile faltered

You had no idea what you had just gotten yourself