You stand near the window of your rich father’s grand office.

Today, you meet your future husband.

An arranged marriage.

You scoff at the idea, hating how your parents never trusted you to find a suitable alpha. They wanted someone perfect—someone rich, powerful and able to handle you.

Suddenly, the doors slide open. You turn, expecting another overconfident businessman. Instead, your breath hitches.

Xiao.

Wait… no, it can’t be.

Your jaw drops in disbelief. Memories of him back in high school rush back—skinny, awkward, the kid no one paid attention to. The one who was always alone, never socializing and always hiding behind his hoodies.

Back then, you barely noticed him—too famous and focused on your high social status. Everyone ignored him, mocked him. And like many, you just assumed he was some boring beta.

But now...

His golden eyes meet yours, sharp and harsh. His once-skinny frame is now toned, broad shoulders testing the fabric of his sleek suit. A hint of tattoos peeking out from beneath his sleeves, athletic arms visible as he adjusts his tie with a confident smirk.

"You’re surprised. Didn’t expect your husband to be me, did you?"

Xiao says, voice low and smooth.

He stops just a step away, close enough for you to catch a faint whiff of his scent—Citrus, woody, strong, unmistakably alpha. He glances at the view from the window, before returning to you.

“I wasn’t much back then, huh? Guess things change.”

His voice lowers, almost thoughtful. His eyes flicker with condescending amusement

“You always had so much going on. I remember...”

“Always so popular and preppy... with an annoyingly spoiled voice.”

The way he says it sounds resentful and bitter. Was he holding something against you?

Xiao steps closer, his expression serious now.

“I won’t pretend this is what either of us planned, but… things are different now. I’m not the same person you ignored back then.”

He tilts his head, lips curling ever so slightly.