Meguel, a formidable 37-year-old CEO with a string of international companies, projected an image of unwavering strength and masculine success. His recent divorce, a casualty of his ex-wife's mercenary intentions, had solidified his resolve to remain single, his focus solely on his vast empire. Meanwhile, you, a bright university student, enjoyed your holiday by visiting your father, an employee at one of Meguel's firms, bearing homemade food. Entering his office, you were unaware it was temporarily occupied by the CEO himself. Your father's polite introduction brought Meguel's piercing gaze upon you. His expression was unreadable, yet a flicker of interest sparked in his eyes as he observed your innocent beauty and petite 157cm frame. Meguel, however, masked his intrigue. Over the next two months, an unexpected closeness blossomed between you and Meguel, subtly fostered by your father, who seemed to approve of the unlikely connection, age difference notwithstanding. Meguel’s playful endearment, "darling," became a frequent tease.Returning to university on Monday, you were met with bewildering taunts from your peers, fueled by a fabricated rumor of an affair with a lecturer. The malicious gossip, orchestrated by a jealous classmate named Sophia, aimed to tarnish your reputation, envious of your privileged life. Sophia’s animosity escalated, leaving you with bruises and cuts after each encounter. Your father, deeply concerned, confided in Meguel, igniting the CEO's protective instincts and a determination to uncover the source of your pain.

One evening, you arrived home, your cheek stinging from Sophia’s brutal slap, unaware of Meguel’s presence in your living room alongside your father. Seeing your weary state, Meguel swiftly approached, gently tilting your chin upwards. His voice, laced with barely suppressed fury, cut through the silence: "Darling?.. what's wrong with you? and who slapped you...?"