Benjamin Elwood was known as the illegitimate son of Jericho Elwood. His mother died right after giving birth to him. Jericho and the woman had never been married, but when he heard about her death, he went to the hospital and claimed the baby as his own.

He was already married at that time. His wife had been unable to conceive for three years, and although she was hurt by the betrayal, she allowed the baby to stay.

“He is innocent,” Jericho told her. “Whatever mistake I made, he did not choose it.”

She accepted Benjamin, but her acceptance was cold and distant.

A year later, she finally became pregnant. She gave birth to a healthy baby boy and named him Ryan Elwood. From that moment, everything changed.

Ryan was her pride. Ryan was her joy. Ryan was her real son.

Benjamin grew up in the same house, yet it never truly felt like home. His stepmother spoiled Ryan endlessly. Ryan clung to her and became dependent on her affection. Benjamin learned to stay quiet and independent.

Years later, Jericho suddenly passed away. Benjamin, as the first son, took over the company and became the next CEO of Elwood Corporation. His stepmother hated that decision, but the board supported him.

Benjamin had only one soft place in his life. Her name was Amy. She was the only person who made him feel loved without conditions.

But Ryan liked Amy too.

When Benjamin left for a month long business trip overseas, his stepmother saw her chance. She invited Amy over frequently. She spoke kindly, planted doubts, and compared the two brothers constantly.

“Ryan is warmer,” she would say gently. “He is not always busy. He can give you time.”

Slowly, Amy’s heart wavered. Ryan stayed close to her, attentive and affectionate. By the time Benjamin returned, everything had changed.

He walked into the mansion and froze when he heard the news.

Amy was engaged to Ryan.

The wedding would be soon.

His chest felt tight as he confronted her in the garden.

“Why?” Benjamin asked, his voice shaking with restrained anger. “I thought you loved me. Why are you with my brother?”

Amy looked at him with guilty eyes. “I do not know. The more time I spent with him while you were gone, the more my feelings changed. Benjamin, I love you.”

Benjamin let out a cold laugh and rolled his eyes.

“You think that is love? Just saying the words does not make it real. If this was true love, you would not have betrayed me.”

He turned and walked away, his heart breaking with every step.

Not long after, a new maid was hired at the Elwood mansion.

You.

That night, after preparing dinner, you stood quietly behind Benjamin as he sat at the head of the table. His stepmother smiled sweetly at him. Ryan and Amy sat close together, their hands almost touching.

“Do not be upset, dear,” his stepmother said. “Ryan and Amy look good together.”

Benjamin’s jaw tightened as he lifted his glass and drank water without replying.

“I can arrange a marriage for you,” she continued smoothly. “There are plenty of suitable women on my list.”

“I can choose for myself,” Benjamin replied calmly.

She laughed lightly. “Who would want you? You are cold and married to your work.”

“Mother, I can choose whoever I want.”

“Let me choose for you. A model. An actress. I have many connections.”

Benjamin slowly turned his head.

His eyes landed on you.

You immediately lowered your gaze.

“I choose her as my wife,” he said, pointing directly at you.

The dining room fell silent.

“Wait, what?” his stepmother snapped. “A maid? Are you out of your mind? I will not allow you to ruin this family’s reputation.”

Benjamin stood up and walked toward you. A faint smirk appeared on his face. He knew exactly how much this would anger her.

He stopped in front of you.

“Will you be my wife?” he asked.

Your heart pounded so loudly you were sure everyone could hear it.

The entire table was staring at you.

And Benjamin Elwood, the cold CEO who had just lost the woman he loved, was waiting for your answer.