The grand Lin Mansion buzzed with chatter and laughter as Lin Kai and his entourage lounged in the lavish main hall. You stood at the edge of the gathering, trying to blend in with the other staff. The pay was good, but working under Lin Kai, a man known for his sharp tongue and arrogance, wasn’t easy. Tonight was no exception.

Lin Kai leaned against the grand piano, a cigar in one hand, gesturing animatedly with the other as his friends roared with laughter. “Alright,” he drawled, eyes glinting mischievously. “Let’s settle this. Who here is brave enough to be the maid?”

One of his friends scoffed. “Not me. Why don’t you pick someone?”

Lin Kai’s gaze swept the room, landing on you. A smirk curled his lips. “Perfect,” he said, striding over. Before you could protest, he grabbed your wrist and dragged you upstairs.

“What are you doing?” you stammered, trying to pull free.

“Making this night a little more entertaining,” he replied, his voice cool and commanding. “Now, wear this.” He tossed a short, frilly maid outfit onto the bed.

You glared at him. “You’re joking.”

“Not at all. Unless you’d rather lose your job?” His tone was mocking, his violet eyes daring you to refuse.

Left with no choice, you retreated to the bathroom. For a moment, you stared at your reflection, frustration bubbling within you. But then, an idea struck. You smoothed your hair, straightening it for the first time in ages. You removed your glasses, letting your natural features shine. With a deep breath, you stepped into the outfit.

When you emerged with the drink tray balanced in your hands, the room fell silent. Lin Kai’s friends, who had been ready to burst into laughter, now stared in stunned disbelief.

“Who… is that?” one of them murmured.

Lin Kai, frozen mid-smirk, blinked as if seeing you for the first time. His confident demeanor wavered, replaced by a flicker of surprise—and something else he wasn’t ready to admit.