The memory of her parents refreshed after encountered with Andrea, make Gea decided to use train back to the S city on Monday as both station in B and S city is 15 minutes walk from her place.

Make sure that Mr. Adam will take good care of Her white Lexus UX and several other instructions to Mrs. Adam regarding the house Gea left to the station at 7.30 a.m.

She's called Andrea on her way "Mom, I am on my way to the station, I'll call you again when I arrived" Andrea node her head, soon realized she's talking on the phone, she said, "Ok I'll be waiting for your call".

Assured that Andrea has both Mr. and Mrs. Adam number in case the incident on Saturday repeated as both of them came every day to maintain her house whenever she is not there, she hung up on the phone, Her mind still not relax, reach out her phone once again she dial Deena number " Hy Sis, I am on my way to S city, but I've asked Mrs. Adam to check on Mother once a while and left your number with her as well".  

Deena meet Gea on Sunday when she visited her mother Andrea, they bonded very well as Deena felt meet her Little and souls sister. Spend all Sunday together, Gea was very happy to find her new family linked by fate and could have a big sister that she wishes. 
"That's good to know,  I'll keep my eyes on mom, don't worry, see you soon on the weekend". 

Arrived in her apartment at 9.00 a.m as the train left B city right at 8.00 o'clock in the morning.  Gea still has 45 minutes before going down to her office on the 1st Floor of her apartment building. 1st consultation will start at 10 a.m. However, Gea prefers waiting for her client instead of the other way around.

Dj just opened the door when Gea about to enter " Hai, your 1st appointment will be with Dave, His assistant keep calling me to make sure that we won't cancel or delay the appointment. 
I'll email you His profile and purpose of his consultation soon  I reached the office". Gea pulled her out of the apartment that blocks her way in "Sure, I'll just have a quick shower first." 

Before Dj left to the lift Gea asked, "Who's this Dave anyway?" kept walking Dj replied, " You'll have the answers in the mail I'll be sent" Dj entered the lift when she finished her sentence.

Gea change to formal suit as she will meet with patients, deep down she enjoys casual clothes, but she learned that formal suit gave her confidence and earnings trust of her clients, especially on first encounters 'Gea preferred called them client than patient, thinking that most of them just share stories, problems a concern while others that need extra care she sent them to psychiatric under their approval'.

Gea looks really stunning wearing the same colour of coat and pantsuit, left Her medium length of dark brown hair loosened, Gea looks beautiful. her 3 cm white high heels extended her height to 167 centimeters, with 50kg weight Gea look a little bit chubby.

Gea never likes makeup, she only put lipstick either in pink or light brown when working and that's it. Most of her college friends tease her that actress Ema Stone looks like her, her mother, usually said she has a very beautiful smile like Julia Roberts and she has eyes that remained her of Broke Shield's eyes. 
As she never really a social person and enjoyed her solitude, Gea only has Dj around since arriving in S city while others related to her trough work.

Gea text Deena to let her know that she arrives safely before called Andrea. "Mom, I already in my apartment and will be busy with consultation soon, please don't skip meals and forget your shots". Gea promised herself to take good care of Andrea as her own mother. 

" Happy to hear that, I have my breakfast, with no trouble thanks to you and Mrs. Adam who served food this morning." Andrea has a maid provided by her son's and she's well taken care of considering their house cluster is one of amongst richest people in B city. Gea just happy to do so, recall the incident of Andrea, that later she learned Andrea forced her maids to take a few days away.

Andrea wishes for David and Gea could meet at least even once, however when they finally meet she barely hide her disappointment seeing Gea already have someone beside her. 

Andrea fall in love with Gea at first sight, her heart, her behaviour, the way she treats her and others... it's really a complete package for future wife. She tried everything that she could think of to make David and Gea meet. She asked nothing anymore, if only Gea could be her son wife

Young Corporation's Board Room
The room was filled with executives – Directors and Managers — from different departments, anticipating the arrival of the long lost granddaughter of Chairman Young. Some of them had been in the company for over two decades and had worked for Katherine's father, Mason, when he was still alive.
It was the first time that Katherine had met them personally—rather, professionally because of business—she had met a few of them last Saturday at her Welcome Home Party. But that morning, she came prepared and familiarized herself with the faces of everyone in the room as well as some details about them that could come in handy. It was Styles and Amelia who compiled everything for her.
This wasn't entirely new for her as she had done this a lot of times in the past while working for Shadow. It was essential to learn about people around her if she were to go on undercover missions. The only difference about this now was that she wasn't wearing any disguise or playing a different persona, making it difficult on her part because she couldn't just escape if something goes wrong.
Katherine looked at everyone's faces as she stood in front of the room with her Aunt Deborah and Grandfather Theo next to her. Seeing the mixture of expressions on the faces of the ladies and gentlemen who were seated at the meeting table, she could see some who were quite excited to see her and some who were hesitant or wary. Director Bai, for example, was all smiles—probably because of the expensive and rare gift that he received earlier, while a manager from the Marketing Department had her brow raised as she judged Katherine's outfit from head to toe.
Katherine ignored her judgy stare and gave her a very warm smile to piss her off with kindness. She couldn't care less about superficial women at the moment. They could all hate her for all she cared, she was there to catch a killer and not get head to head with a Queen Wanna-Bee.
As the CEO of Young Corporation, her Aunt Deborah gave a speech about her late brother Mason and miraculously finding her niece Katherine and having her back in the family. Katherine kept a gentle appearance and waited for her aunt to introduce her.
"We are very glad to have you back in the family as it is truly a wonderful moment. I'm sure wherever your father is right now, he's very proud that you're joining the company. Now, I hope you're ready for the challenges. I know you won't disappoint us," Deborah Young said, holding Katherine's hand. "May I present to you, my niece, Katherine Young, who will be a new addition to the Department of Procurement and Supply."
Everyone clapped their hands to welcome Katherine as she made a small bow to all of them. Chairman Young couldn't have been more proud to see her joining the family business. When she told him that she wanted to work in the company, he didn't hesitate to say 'yes'.
Looking at the eyes of the important people in the room, Katherine started, "It's an honor for me to work here. I am definitely looking forward to overcoming any challenges and witness as Young Corporation reaches greater heights. I wouldn't have it any other way." There was another round of applause before they stood up, one by one, to shake hands with her.
Katherine and Chairman Young came to an agreement that she would stay in the department and shadow one of the manager's responsibilities until she was ready to replace him. Although Katherine couldn't see that happening very soon, it was a good compromise that allowed her to be in the loop while also having the flexibility to do what she needed to do. 
"Katherine darling, I'd like you to meet Michael Price…" Deborah Young introduced her to the current Manager of Procurement and Cost Control. He was a thirty-four-year-old English man and he looked a lot like Liam Hemsworth.
"It's a pleasure, Mr. Price," Katherine said as she shook hands with him.
"Please Ms. Young, call me Michael," he said, flashing a gorgeous set of teeth.
"Michael it is. Then call me Katherine."
The two of them got acquainted and Katherine's first day at Young Corporation was spent getting to know the basic procedures in the company as well as knowing who is who — all while taking mental notes about each person that she came across with that day.
…
Crown Resort Group
Damien Park spent the whole morning attending meetings left and right and by lunch break, he was about to eat out when he decided to just stay in the office and have food delivered, hoping to get a couple of hours of break before tackling Monday afternoon.
He slumped on the office sofa and leaned his head on the backrest when his cellphone rang. He looked at the screen and saw that Nana was calling him.
"Hi, Nana," he answered.
"Damien, you sound tired. Have you had your lunch?" Nana asked.
"I'm just waiting for food. Do you need something, Nana?"
"Are you getting rid of me already? I just called," she huffed.
Damien pinched the bridge of his nose when he heard Nana got sensitive over nothing. "You know that's not what I mean. It's just… you rarely call me on Mondays. Is everything okay?"
"Mm. Everything is okay. You haven't visited me lately. I'm calling because I want you to have dinner with me tonight."
Damien shifted his gaze to the computer on his desk and tried to recall what his schedule was but when he couldn't remember, he excused himself and checked it through his phone. "I have dinner with a business partner tonight, Nana. Can I meet you another day?"
"Oh no. You cannot cancel on me again, young man. I won't take no for an answer this time!"
"Nana, but—"
"No buts. I want you here at six in the evening tonight. You have to come or I will disown you. Are we clear?" Nana's voice was serious, leaving no room for negotiation.
Damien didn't have a choice. There was no way he could get out of it now. The last time that he saw Nana was last month and he was sort of avoiding seeing her because she gets really adamant in asking him to chase after Katherine — like it was that easy — like he knew where she was — like he knew how to get her back.
After a long and heavy sigh, Damien agreed, "Fine. I'll cancel my appointment and I'll be there tonight."
"Good. Don't be late," she said before ending their phone call.
Damien stared at his phone screen and sent a quick email to cancel the dinner meeting. When he was done, he found himself checking his messages despite not receiving any notification and ended up opening the message thread with Katherine.
He hadn't heard from her since last night. There was an indication that his message that morning was definitely read and he wondered why she didn't respond.
Damien got a little frustrated that she didn't reply so he began typing another message for her but when he was about to send it, he stopped himself and deleted the composition thinking that he didn't want to appear too pushy.
Therefore, he tossed his phone aside and spent the rest of the day getting annoyed — even on little things.


"Today, I choose you. And I'll choose you over and over again. Without pause, without a doubt, in a heartbeat, I'll keep choosing you.” -A

What would happen when a top assassin with a tragic background suddenly wakes up losing her memory after a long coma?
 
Five years after living her new identity, Katherine meets many misfortunes. With the help of her friend, she takes on the role of a secretary-slash-assistant for the country’s popular bachelor, Damien Park, Aka the Resort King. But who would have thought that on her first day of work, her boss would end up being her bane of existence?
 
With a smirk on his devilish, handsome face, Damien drags her to his office and presses her against the wall until his face is just inches away… “How dare you show up in front of me five years late?”
 
Surprised by the forceful antics of the man in front of her, Katherine blurted, “Mister Whoever you are, let me go!”
 
“What? Whoever... I am? Kitten, you better not think that you can get away with feigning ignorance. After disappearing that night, I thought you would already be on the other side of the world. Is being my secretary another one of your lies? Laughable.”
 
Katherine’s fate from then on entangled with his as she began to spend more time with him. The more she does, the more her true self is revealed... and this would scare her. 

Will she allow herself to fall in love with him? 
 
***
 
Twirling the knife in her hand skillfully, Katherine stared daggers at the man before her. As she stands from her seat, she stabs the knife on the wooden table in front of her in a bang!

Tied up with his hands behind his back, yet the man before her didn’t seem to feel a bit of fear.
 
She saunters wearing only her lace underwear and a white long cardigan over it, a small sexy smile appeared on her face. Her fingers gently caressing the chin of Damien Park as her sweet voice resounded out in the room. “I never would have thought there would come a day where I would be facing you 
like this... Mr. Park, would you like to see me dance?”
 
Chuckling slightly, Damien finds her provocation very tempting. "Let's see what you've got."
 
Discovering the secrets and unfolding the truth of her past, will she spare Damien's life or will she kill him?

•••

(R18)

Future Plan: Femme Fatale Series

~~~~~~~~~~

Other Works:

•Serendipity - A Chance Encounter (Complete-Ongoing revision)

•The Mafia Prince's Naughty Angel (Ongoing)

~~~~~~~~~~

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*cover is mine.* Please don't use it without permission.

editors:

filledelisle
Swaning
Pantojac0311

South Jakarta, Building V.Disg Corporation

Briena began to enter the building where she worked after Ares had just delivered it. Today Briena looks beautiful in her white shirt and black cloth pants complete with a beautiful brown belt around her slim waist. With the hand that carried the Prada brand, Briena gracefully stepped her steps towards the brown mahogany door that connected her room to her secretary's room.

"Ave, come to my office right now! Briena ordered before opening the door, turning to the woman who had been his secretary for 3 years since the company was built.

"Yes, ma'am," Ave said obediently.

Briena walked to her national chair, flipped through the files before her before turning on the computer in her room. A few minutes later Ave entered with a tablet in his hand, the woman had memorized that Briena would have told her to read the schedule for today.

"What's my schedule for today?" Briena asked, staring flatly at her secretary, her voice as firm as her gaze.

"This morning, I have an appointment with Mrs. Arum related to her home decoration in the central Jakarta area, then a meeting with the decor, then a video call with our client from Malaysia. Lunch time until the time you go home later your schedule is empty," explained Ave.

"All right, you may leave," Briena ordered when the Ave task was over. But the woman still stood stiff before him as if he wanted to say something. "What else?" Briena asked, looking confused Ave.

"Do you know our client named Mrs. Wayan Dista?"

"Yes, 70 year old woman who lives in Bali, right?" said Briena.

"He ... Ave was silent for a moment. He wanted to ...." Ave hung her sentence.

"What is the problem with Mrs. Dista? Tell me clearly, Ve, do not be complicated," interrupted Briena, the woman knew that there was a problem related to her client. The proof Ave looks nervous when delivering news related to Mrs. Dista.

"Mrs. Dista wants to meet you in person without going through an intermediary assistant, ma'am. She also doesn't like communication through Vicall," Ave finally explained.

Briena frowned faintly. "Meeting in person? You mean I have to go to Bali? Briena stared at her secretary who nodded. Ve, I already told you that clients shouldn't be offhanded like that. You didn't say that designs can be sent via email and as before clients with far away objects can having a discussion via video call, "she snapped angrily.

"I-I-I already said, ma'am, but he still wants to see you in person," Ave answered timidly.

Briena sighed to control her bursting emotions. "Why doesn't he go to Jakarta?" Briena asked lowering her voice.

"He is sick, Ma'am, not allowed to get on a plane. Besides, He wants you to survey directly the building that will be designed by you later."

Briena paused, thinking of a solution to this problem. How much profit can we get if we cooperate with him? "She asked later.

"Approximately 89 billion, Ma'am, answered Ave. Previously, I already signed the cooperation at the beginning of the meeting with Assistant Dista. If you cancel the project, you must pay a 47% penalty from the promised price," she explained later.

"Actually, I could have canceled the project, but Mrs. Dista's background clearly cannot be underestimated. The first child is a well-known journalist in Indonesia. The second child was a Director in a private TV station in Jakarta and a third child, a politician. Ok, the third child is not very influential, but the first and second children will obviously affect the continuity of the future V.DISG. Discomfort and client satisfaction they can pour in the form of criticism in the media, "explained Briena thought hard.

The final decision is that he must fly to Bali to handle the project. Briena is not uncommon to meet clients who like this and she has to keep this project apart from being penalized. "Alright, order me a plane ticket to Bali for the next few days. Remember, Ve, don't let my departure to Bali interfere with my other schedule, "Briena ordered. "You may go out," he added, letting Ave leave his room.

"Uh, ma'am, there's more. Assistant Mr. Vian called. He said that Mr. Vian wanted to meet you in your apartment," Ave.

"In my apartment? Contact Vian's assistant now and say that I don't want to meet her in my privacy. Just say we will meet at Djournal Coffee," Briena answered.

"Sorry, ma'am, I already said that and intend to replace it in another cafe, but Mr. Vian still wants to meet in your apartment," Ave explained.

"You may go," Briena ordered without giving an answer. She pulled out a white cellphone from her bag and dialed the number of her future husband.

"What is wrong?" asked the opposite voice without ties

"What do you mean by meeting in my apartment? We can meet in a cafe or anywhere, "said Briena.

"I want a more private place."

"We can go to restaurants that have private rooms"

"Never mind, Bi. You don't need to debate unnecessary things. There are only 2 choices, your apartment or mine. "

"I don't want to set my foot in your apartment," Briena snapped.

"All right, then after lunch I will go to your apartment," Vian said before turning off the connection.

"Just wait until you are mossy," Briena grumbled, then tossed her cellphone back into the bag.

Kalvian and Kalebriena are married because of a marriage arranged by their parents. Marriage without any drama, contract or any requirement. According to them, rejecting a regulated marriage will only waste their time.

No need to be a sickening drama.
 
This is not a classic wedding

CHAPTER ONE
THIRD PERSON's POINT of VIEW

"May meeting ka kay Sir Lorenzo mamayang 9am para sa deal na pag-uusapan niyo. Pagkatapos may lunch meeting ka din kay Mister Alayon dahil kinancel mo kahapon ang meeting niyo. Kailangan niyo din umattend sa opening ng boutique ni Ma'am Collen mamayang 3pm dahil malilintikan daw ako sa kanya kapag hindi kayo pumunta." mahabang paliwanag ng sekretarya ni Spruce na si Khiya habang nasa loob sila ng elevator. 

"Kanselahin mo ang appointment ko mamayang 3pm. May kailangan akong asikasuhin sa oras na yan." sagot ni Spruce sabay ayos sa necktie niya.

"Pero sir, magagalit sakin si Ma'am Collen—"

"The board is waiting for me." pilit ang ngiting putol ni Spruce at ginulo pa muna ang buhok ng sekretarya niya bago lumabas sa elevator at dumiretso sa Conference room. 

"Good morning Mister Chairman." bati sa kanya ng board of directors kaya tinanguan niya lang ito at umupo sa upuan niya.

"Shall we start?" tanong ni Spruce hudyat na magsisimula na ang kanilang agenda.

Nasa kalagitnaan ng pagpupulong nang biglang magpintig ang dalawang tenga ni Spruce dahil sa narinig niya ang pangalan ng babaeng matagal na niyang kinalimutan.

"Pumayag naman ang management kaso ayaw talaga ni Miss Rasheeqa Laurent." 

Nabalot ng ingay ang loob ng kwarto kung kaya't si Spruce na ang nagsalita para magsitigil ang mga board. 

"Then look for another endorser." salubong ang kilay nito.

He hates hearing her name. It gives creep the hell out of him.

"But we badly need Miss Rasheeqa Laurent in order for us to attract a lot of customer during opening of our new branch in Bacolod." matabang na sagot ni Mister Yoon na isa sa mga board of directors dahilan para maging sentro siya ng atensyon.

"What's the other plan?" baling ni Spruce sa presenter ng board meeting

"Persuade Miss Rasheeqa Laurent." maikli nitong sagot at mukhang sumang-ayon naman ang ibang board sa pamamagitan ng pagtango.

"What? Is that all?" tanong niya

"Wala na po tayong ibang pwedeng pagpipilian." rason ng presentor at nagdulot ito ng pag-ingay sa loob ng conference room

"How could you all be this incompetent—"

"Why not persuade Miss Rasheeqa yourself, Mister Constello?" pagputol ni Mister Yoon kay Spruce na ngayon ay halos magkapantay na ang dalawang kilay dahil sa sobrang inis.

"W-What?"

"You were friends with Miss Rasheeqa way back nine years ago. Why not ask her yourself? I'm sure she'll accept our proposal if you will be the one to ask her." kampanteng sagot ni Mister Yoon na ikinatango naman ng ilang board. "Anyway, it's only a piece of advice. I'm not actually forcing you na kausapin si Miss Rasheeqa. Maliban na lang kung—"

"Meeting adjourned." pagtatapos ni Spruce tsaka nauna nang tumayo at lumabas sa Conference room.

"Sir? Should I arrange you an appointment para makausap si Miss Rasheeqa?" tanong ni Khiya habang sinusundan ang malalaking hakbang ng boss niya.

"Just send me the details of where she is now then cancel all of my appointments this morning." malamig nitong tugon at nilagpasan ang sekretarya.

Pagkalipas ng ilang minuto, nakatanggap si Spruce ng email galing sa kanyang sekretarya kaya kaagad itong pumunta sa basement para kunin ang kotse niya at tinungo ang lugar na inemail ng kanyang sekretarya.

—KBC Network

Dumiretso si Spruce sa dressing room ni Rasheeqa at hindi man lang ito kumatok bago pumasok.

"Hey, long time no see." salubong ng binata at dumiretso sa gawi ni Rasheeqa na kasalukuyang inaayusan ng personal assistant nito. 

"A-Anong ginagawa mo dito?" utal na tanong ng dalaga at sinenyasan ang assistant niya na lumabas muna. 

Nakapaskil sa mukha nito ang pagkabigla. Sinong hindi mabibigla kung makikita mo ang taong kinamumuhian mo ng ilang taon?

"Aren't you going to greet me after all these years?" mapaklang napatawa si Spruce at aakmang lalapit na sana kay Rasheeqa nang bigla siya nitong pinigil.

"W-What do you want?" 

Napabuntong hininga muna ang binata tsaka umupo sa single sofa. "Ibang klase, masyadong VIP ang dressing room mo." prenteng sabi nito habang iginagala ang tingin sa kabuuan ng kwarto.

"Just tell me w-what you want. May gagawin pa ako." may parte pa din kay Rasheeqa na kinakabahan kung kaya't hindi nito maiwasan ang hindi mautal. 

"Okay. Hindi na ako magpapaligoy-ligoy pa. I want you to do the advertisement of my new branch in Bacolod—"

"Ayoko." 

"I won't accept your refusal."

"Maghanap na lang kayo ng iba." sagot niyang habang inaayos ang mga gamit nito

"Bakit ba ayaw mo?" kunot noong tanong ni Spruce dahilan para mapairap si Rasheeqa ng wala sa oras.

"Kasi ayoko."

"Sabihin mo nga sakin..." tumayo si Spruce at lumapit kay Rasheeqa. "Are you still into me?" tanong ng binata na nakapagpagtigil sa dalaga.

"O-Of course not."

"Then why are you declining my proposal? Business lang 'to Rasheeqa, masyado kang personal." 

Nabalot ng katahimikan sa pagitan nilang dalawa dahil hindi na nagawang sumagot ni Rasheeqa. Naiinis siya dahil sa tono ng pananalita ng binata.

"I'm leaving" aakmang maglalakad na sana ito paalis nang biglang hawakan ni Spruce ang braso niya

"You're not going to leave until you accept my proposal." halos panlambutan si Rasheeqa sa tinging ipinupukol sa kanya ng binata. "Baka naman gusto mo talaga akong makita na kinukulit ka para lang tanggapin ang alok ko? Ganyan ka na ba kadesperada pagdating sakin?" ngisi nito.

Kaagad na iwinaksi ng dalaga ang kamay na nakahawak sa kanya at ginawaran ng malakas na sampal ang binata. 

"You are the best definition of the word desperate. So stop acting desperate towards me." batid ang galit at poot sa mga katagang pinapakawalan ng dalaga. "Pinapanindigan ko lang ang pinangako ko sayo noon." malaki ang hakbang ang ginawa nito palabas sa dressing room niya.

Naiwang tulala si Spruce habang hawak-hawak ang pisngi niyang sinampal. Nang magising ang diwa niya ay kaagad siyang lumabas at dumiretso sa pantry ng nasabing network dahil nakaramdam siya ng pagkauhaw.

Binayaran niya sa counter ang kinuha niyang bottled water at umupo sa isang bakanteng mesa. 

"Walang kupas talaga ang ganda ni Rasheeqa." dinig niyang sabi ng dalawang lalaking nag-uusap na katabi ng table niya.

"Kahit saang anggulo tingnan, hindi papaawat ang salitang kagandahan sa kanya." sabat naman ng isa dahilan para mapatingin siya sa TV na nasa taas ng counter at nakasentro sa kabuuan ng pantry.

Kaagad siyang lumipat ng pwesto sa bandang gilid dahil kumukulo ang dugo niya sa tuwing naririnig ang pangalan ng dalaga.

Sa kalagitnaan ng pag-iisip niya, biglang naagaw ang atensyon niya ng isang batang katabi niya at abala sa pagkain. "Hey kiddo." pagtawag niya sa batang babae pero wala siyang natanggap na sagot galing dito. "Mag-isa ka lang?" tanong niya kaya bumaling sa kanya ang bata pero kalauna'y muli na naman nitong nilantakan ang pagkain at nag-focus sa pinapanood nito.

Napatingin si Spruce sa TV kung saan nanonood ang bata at muli na naman nitong kinausap. "Do you know her?" tukoy niya sa babaeng nasa telebisyon at tinanguan lang siya ng bata. "You must be a big fan of her—"

"I'm not a fan of her." nakangusong sagot ng bata pero hindi pa din naalis ang tingin sa pinapanood.

"Then why are you so focused on watching that wench?" muli niyang tanong dahilan para manlisik ang mga mata ng bata at tumingin sa kanya.

"Why are you badmouthing her?" 

"Why? Are you going to defend her? You told me you're not one of her fans—"

"She's not a wench. My mom is not a wench." sagot ng bata bago ito tumayo at iniwan siya.

Naiwan si Spruce na tulala at hindi makapaniwala sa narinig. Gulong gulo ang utak niya kung papanong nagkaroon ng anak si Rasheeqa gayong wala naman siyang nababalitaan sa media patungkol sa anak ng dalaga.

"Tss." nakangising naglakad palabas ng pantry si Spruce na para bang may kung ano na naman siyang binabalak.

In unanticipated occasion, Spruce knew that her ex- lover named Rasheeqa had a child hidden privily just to keep her credibility and reputation intact. But ,what if Spruce grasps the idea that her ex- lover hidden child was his own flesh? How could he make Rasheeqa admit the truth that's impossible to believe? How can he make it up to his child if Rasheeqa keeps on pushing him away from them? Life is a boatload of uncertainty and fate is inevitable . What comes next isn't their own to decide for things just happened the less they expected it to be.

In the Yingjin Building of the Pingle District.
When Lou Cheng entered the lobby of the newly-built office building, he received a lot of attention from the security guards due to his student-like appearance. He ignored them and looked around with great interest, observing the passing office workers who wore down jacket or all kinds of overcoats instead of the typical suits and ties or formal skirts and high heels in his imagination.
The elevator he entered was not crowded as the people in the building were still at work. On his left were two men discussing business. On his right was a straight-haired girl carrying a few cups of milk tea and several slices of cake. With his keen sense of smell, Lou Cheng had to pinch his nose slightly due to the smell of perfume on her body.
"If I didn't get Jindan and didn't start practicing martial arts, perhaps this would be my daily environment... " Lou Cheng lamented internally. He exited the elevator at the tenth floor and saw the logo on the wall in front of him.
It read Zaoji Martial Arts Supplies Co. Ltd.
"This is the place I am looking for!" He turned left and saw a receptionist with long beautiful hair looking down at her phone in a bored manner.
"Hello," he tentatively greeted the lady.
The receptionist suddenly raised her head and put down her phone quietly. She blurted out,
"Who are you looking for?"
As a company receptionist, she had a beautiful look and sweet smile, but also a pair of glassy eyes.
"I'm looking for Manager Wu." Lou Cheng returned her smile.
"Manager Wu? Who are you referring to?" the lady asked with confusion, having calmed down.
"Manager Wu. Wu Qinggui," Lou Cheng answered calmly.
The lady looked him up and down suspiciously.
"Have you already made your appointment?"
Though she found the young man in front of her to be very cute, he also seemed younger, as if he was an undergraduate student. So what was he doing here?
Was he here to apply for an internship?
But there was no need to bother Manager Liu with such trivialities, was there?
"Yes, I have." Lou Cheng nodded with a smile.
"Okay then, I will ask." She picked up the phone with uncertainty, dialing someone's number.
"Hello, Manager Wu. A guest is waiting for you... Yes, yes, he's very young... Okay, okay." As she talked on the phone, she looked at Lou Cheng with surprise.
He really had an appointment with Manager Wu!
After putting down the phone, she said with a much sweeter smile, "Manager Wu asks that you wait for a moment."
Manager Wu did not mention why he had to wait and neither did she know the reason.
"Okay." Lou Cheng put his hands in his pockets and looked around leisurely, admiring the layout and decoration of the Zaoji office.
Just then, he heard a burst of rapid footsteps closing in. He subconsciously looked in that direction and found a middle-aged man with a thin and strong figure approaching,
"M-Manager Wu!" the receptionist stood upright and shouted shyly.
Manager Wu came out to personally welcome this young man!
Who was this young man?
Wu Qinggui wore a suit and tie. He had a square face with thick eyebrows and big eyes. He approached Lou Cheng with a smile and outstretched his arms to shake hands with him passionately.
"Oh, you should have called me first when you arrived. Come, come. Come into my office."
"Manager Wu, you are too kind. I can find this place myself," Lou Cheng said calmly. He followed Wu Qinggui into his office and passed by many working quarters. He finally arrived at the office at the end of the corridor, leaving the receptionist stunned for a long time. It took her a long time to snap out of it.
"... that is the general situation. I believe Tingting has told you this?" In the office, Wu Qinggui sat on the guest sofa and repeated the conditions about the endorsement. He took a cup and took a sip of tea to moisten his throat.
Lou Cheng smiled. "Yes. I basically know what is going on. I just want to know what specific terms you have made."
Wu Qinggui requested the sample contract from the secretary and handed it to Lou Cheng.
"The main content is that we will give you one million yuan over three years. You just need to wear our martial arts shoes when you fight in matches. There are additional terms of the contract made to give you money. You can first take a look at them."
"Okay." Lou Cheng began to read the contract quietly.
One million yuan over three years. This condition was much better than he had expected!
He felt embarrassed to even bring up the endorsement money again...
He thought that his current endorsement fee would only be tens of thousands of yuan. Most fighters of the Dan stage did not even have the chance to get an endorsement. What was more, he would not need to attend other activities or film any advertisements. He would earn this fee simply by wearing a pair of shoes. It was that easy!
He turned the pages very quickly, the professional terms used in the contract making him dizzy. He basically understood the contract in the end.
The additional terms that Wu Qinggui had mentioned earlier were indeed beneficial to him. Generally, the terms meant that he could get extra money according to the level of matches he participated in!
For example, the group competitions of the National University Martial Arts Games would certainly attract less attention than the semi-quarter finals, the semi-finals, and the finals. Every bit of progress he made would lead him to advance in a completely different stage, meaning the martial arts shoes he endorsed would certainly be shown in a much more popular stage. Thus, the endorsement contract also set out some ranked rewards.
According to those terms, the maximum fee this contract could offer him was more than 10 million yuan within these three years. But Lou Cheng thought this was an illusion. He certainly could not make this much money, because the biggest reward he needed to get based on this contract was the title of one of the top 32 fighters in the five biggest title matches.
How could he achieve this!?
The fighters who advanced to the top 32 of the five biggest title matches were all masters of the physical invulnerability!
With his strength and current improvment speed, he was still hopeful to earn more than 1,500,000 yuan in these three years based on this contract... Lou Cheng put down the contract in his hand.
"Manager Wu, can I bring this contract home to look it over? I will respond in two days."
That was right. He was interested in these conditions. He would return and find a lawyer to help him out with this contract!
He needed to ask his Senior Sister for help this time. She would introduce him to a good lawyer!
"No problem. You can write down my email address. If you have any problems with the contract terms, you can directly ask me." Wu Qinggui readily agreed. He picked up the pen and quickly wrote down an email address on a paper.
He then stood up and laughed. "I will bring you around our office. This is the center of gravity of my recent business. Oh, by the way, I can help you measure your accurate data so we can design a specific martial arts shoes for you."
"Okay." Lou Cheng did not turn down his suggestion.
Following Wu Qinggui, he toured the design department and other places. In the end, he entered an office decked out like a scene out of a science fiction film.
"This machine collects data about your force. We can carry out the following steps with the data." Wu Qinggui ordered the professional designers to help Lou Cheng measure the length and width of his feet, pointing at the metal table mounted on the ground.
After the designers were done with the measurements, he smiled and raised his chin. "Give it a try. You only need to stand on it and exert your maximum force into your feet."
Lou Cheng hesitated. "Won't I break it?"
Even he was terrified of the explosive power he now had...
"How can that happen? This machine is of good quality. I have already asked a few Professional Ninth Pin fighters and mighty ones of the Dan stage to test its force." Wu Qinggui smiled without any concern.
Lou Cheng was still uncertain. "There really won't be a problem?"
"No problem! If it breaks, it's on me!" Wu Qinggui laughed.
"Okay then." Lou Cheng stepped on the metal table with his socks on.
As they waited for the technicians adjusting the equipment, Wu Qinggui said, "Okay, you can start now."
Under Wu Qinggui's eager eyes, Lou Cheng took a breath to unify and balance his spirit, his blood, and his force, concentrating them into one entity.
He broke out his Danqi and abruptly exerted force into his feet.
Clang!
At the entrance of the Zaoji office, the receptionist suddenly felt dizzy and found the ground shaking.
"Earthquake!" Startled, she ran out. She also found that her colleagues were also rushing out from every office.
Just then, the microearthquake ceased. The workers in the company looked at each other with stupefied expressions.
"Go back to work. It is no big deal." The receptionist settled down and waved her hand to comfort them.
That scene repeated on every floor of the Yingjin Building.
In the testing room, Lou Cheng looked at the broken metal table and raised his head innocently. "Seems like I broke it... "
It was not 'seemed like'! It was really broken! Completely broken! Wu Qinggui gaped and his eyes widened. He was truly startled, as if he was seeing the arrival of an alien.
Was this the explosion made by a Sixth Pin fighter?
It was like he had caused an earthquake!
"Manager Wu, the fighters you found before were of Eighth Pin in the Dan stage, right?" Lou Cheng tried to pass the buck.
"Yes, yes." Wu Qinggui broke out of his reverie and said with a wry smile, "This machine really does not work well. It's on me, on me!"
The fighters who were in the Inhuman rank really were inhuman now!
Lou Cheng once again looked at the table he was standing on and curiously asked, "Has it measured any data?"
"No... " The technicians answered him with tearful expressions.
Wu Qingui calmed down and smiled. "It's time to get off work. How about we have a dinner together?"
"Haha. It is my first day back home, so I must accompany my parents. Let's eat together next time." Lou Cheng still felt a little guilty.
"Okay." Wu Qinggui did not insist on his suggestion.
…
Lou Cheng first went home and chatted with Coach Yan for a while. He then called his Senior Sister, Shi Yuejian, to discuss the endorsement. Following her instructions, he took photos of the contract and sent them to her.
When it was late, Shi Yuejian called him back. "Little Brother, the contract has no problems, but it lasts for a long period of time. Three years from now, you will graduate from university and will certainly become a fighter who can participate the top professional games, so your social status will be completely different at that time. This contract will waste your value. So you should sign a contract for two years. They should give you 700,000 yuan within two years. All the uncertain terms are reserved."
"If you are too embarrassed to demand this from them, you can adopt the two-plus-one pattern. Two years from now, they have your endorsement priority, but the conditions they offer should be similar to what others are offering."
"Got it. Thanks, Senior Sister," Lou Cheng said happily.
The door opened just then. Qi Fang and Lou Zhisheng had returned home wearing tired expressions.
"Cheng, what are you talking about?" Qi Fang casually asked him while changing out of her shoes.
Lou Cheng laughed. "I'm talking about a big contract."
"Big contract... " Qi Fang smiled without interest and walked into the kitchen.
What kind of big contract could one sign by only fighting in some matches and winning a little bit of money?
Lou Cheng did not explain himself. He wanted to wait until he signed the contract and surprise his mother with money for their house furnishing.
Haha...
"I only saw how hard your mother had it after following her around to work on the house furnishing." Lou Zhisheng sat down and leaned against the sofa in exhaustion.
Lou Cheng glanced at the kitchen. "Then let's ask Mom to stop making dinner. How about we eat out?"
The moment he finished his words, he heard Qi Fang shouting from inside the kitchen. "What kind of pork ribs did you buy?"
"Just regular pork ribs... " Lou Cheng answered in bewilderment.
Was there any difference between ribs...
Qi Fang was annoyed but also found her son ridiculous. "Can't you pick a better part of the pork? Since your teeth are good, you should gnaw on them yourself!"
The champion of the Youth Tournament and fighter considering a one million yuan contract, Lou Cheng, blinked innocently and felt a little sorry for himself.
How would I know which rib part to buy...


Here martial arts are no longer intangible legends. They have been passed on from generation to generation and from century to century. After the confrontation with science and technology, they have completely integrated into modern society and all kinds of martial arts competitions are taking place across the country as superiority among scholars are hard to reach a consensus but not as difficult among martial artists!
Lou Cheng has inherited the lost skills of the greatest martial arts sect. Towards his original dream and the glory in his heart, he advances step by step, becoming the warrior of this modern city and the hero of the era!

Rubica got up early in the morning, got ready for the battle, and headed to the reception room.
Today she had fewer relatives to meet compared to yesterday. Words had got out during the night that she wasn't a naïve idiot at all. Instead, more people came to persuade her to buy strange rocks and trees to decorate the garden. They were not pretty at all, and Rubica didn't even talk to them for long. She worked with Ann to drive them away.
"Your Grace, in my opinion, you should hear more advice from me about the culture of the upper class before you are presented to the capital's society."
Mrs. Shaynie, who taught manners in the Claymore Family and its retainers, was among those Rubica had driven off using her 'I'm not buying' technique yesterday. However, she wasn't tired and came to convince Rubica again. For now, Rubica listened to the woman, who had a bent back and blonde hair that had almost entirely lost its color, with a smile. But she really didn't want to meet her every day to learn about manners.
"Mrs. Shaynie, the capital's society will not be available for a long time. I plan to focus on the household's businesses for now."
Shaynie pretended to not hear Rubica's polite refusal and continued to speak.
"How you spoke to His Grace at the wedding feast was wrong as well. In most noble families…"
"Mrs. Shaynie, His Grace has ordered no one should care about how Her Grace speaks to him as it is a matter of their relationship. He also said whoever dares to advise Her Grace about the matter will be punished severely."
Ann couldn't stand it anymore and warned Shaynie, but the woman just glanced at Ann and continued, "Even if His Grace has said so, a wise woman must…"
Rubica couldn't take it anymore and put a hand on her forehead. Ann immediately realized what she meant by that and spoke politely to Mrs. Shaynie.
"Mrs. Shaynie, Her Grace is very tired after working hard for two days. It is now time to meet the doctor."
Of course, they hadn't made any doctor's appointment. However, it looked like Shaynie wouldn't go away without that kind of good reason. She was an old lady who had worked as the family's teacher for many years. She could spread rumors if Rubica drove her away as she had done with the other relatives.
"I apologize for taking your precious time. Then, we will discuss this again tomorrow."
Mrs. Shaynie stood up and bowed politely. Rubica said goodbye by following the manners, but she couldn't help sighing as soon as the door was closed. Ann looked rather sorry for her.
"She isn't that bad… she is just, a little weird."
Rubica didn't try to deny that and nodded. She didn't know why Mrs. Shaynie was trying to teach her, but it couldn't be out of good intentions.
"And she will come again tomorrow."
"Should I cancel your afternoon schedule if you are tired?"
"No, no, there's no need to."
She was going to meet designers from the neighborhood this afternoon. It was one of the reasons she had endured the morning's boring meetings. So, she shook her head.
"I will be fine if I take a little rest after having a cup of coffee."
"Okay."
Ann immediately brought warm coffee and some refreshments. Rubica then had some sugar-sprinkled madeleine with coffee.
'Oh, it smells so good.'
The coffee was beyond comparison with that strange drink Edgar had given her the night before, and it made her feel much better. Drinking bitter coffee after eating the sweet madeleine felt just right. Before she knew it, half of the madeleines on the dish were gone, and she had finished a cup of coffee. But because of the stress Mrs. Shaynie had given her, she didn't want to stop there. She raised the pot to have more coffee.
"Madam, wouldn't a cup of coffee be enough?"
"Can't I have more?"
"It's not good for your health."
Rubica wanted to convince Ann and get another cup of coffee, but she was surprised at seeing her look at her as if she were a patient and put down the pot.
'What is this about?'
Ann had also stopped her from having more champagne at the wedding feast. It looked like she was the type of person who cared too much about health. Rubica was about to say she was still young and could handle a couple of cups of coffee, but then someone knocked on the door.
"But Mrs. Shaynie was today's last visitor."
"I will see who it is."
Ann opened the door and Carl came in. He hesitated for a moment when seeing Rubica, but then he delivered the duke's message.
"Your Grace, your husband said it would be good to take a walk in the garden for your health."
"What?"
Was everyone in this household obsessed with health? Rubica was confused, but Ann brightened up at hearing that.
"Oh, that is an excellent idea! Taking a walk is good for a preg…"
…nant woman. Ann managed to not say that.
"Preg?"
Rubica asked back. Ann, however, answered with an expression that said Rubica knew what she was talking about.
"It will make you feel better. Your Grace, you should take a walk."
Ann brought a hat, gloves, and a parasol. Therefore, Rubica had no choice but to go outside.

***

Rubica didn't hate taking strolls. She rather understood its importance. You cannot get fresh air if you stay inside. Also, it was almost the only activity noble ladies could do.
However, she didn't like the fact that she was taking a stroll because of someone's recommendation that was practically an order. She went across the garden so fast that the maids were surprised to see her. Then, she abruptly stopped and looked back. She could see someone hastily moving away behind the curtains upstairs.
'That's the office.'
Now, Rubica wasn't the one who should take a walk. It was Edgar who stayed in his office and slept and ate there. Plus, according to what she had felt under his nightgown, he…
'… has no need to exercise.'
His chest was solid. She had never seen him naked, but it was clear that his chest was made of muscles. She felt it with her cheek.
She couldn't help but get embarrassed when thinking of his chest and kicked a pebble on the road. Why was she remembering that?
"Your Grace, the road is uncomfortable, isn't it? The gardeners are doing maintenance, so they couldn't clear the road."
"Maintenance?"
"Yes, one of the mana quartz statues lost its lights so they are preparing for rearrangements. I was going to tell you tomorrow as it was nothing urgent."
Ann seemed to be talking about the angel sculpture Rubica had seen last night. Rubica felt pity for that statue that had lost its beauty in time. If it had been left buried underground, it wouldn't have lost its light. However, was beauty buried underground without anyone appreciating it really meaningful?
Asking such questions to herself made her feel pain in the heart and feel like everything in the world and life was meaningless.
Beauty gives joy to people, but it also gives bitterness and sadness sometimes.

***

Being rich is pleasant. There is happiness that can't be bought with money, but there is happiness that can be bought with money as well. Rubica couldn't hide her smile at seeing the beautiful fabrics in front of her.
"Mr. Wilkins, the most famous designer in the neighborhood."
Mr. Wilkins bowed in his splendid suit. He had used more than enough wax on his blond hair, and his almond-shaped green eyes made him look somewhat like a young boy. He elegantly said, "It is my honor to be summoned by such a beautiful lady."
"Thank you."
"No, I truly mean it. Your thick brown hair especially highlights your beauty. How about this fabric? It will make your hair stand out even more."
Rubica could see why he was such a successful designer. He knew how to make his clients feel good, even though what he said was clearly a lie. He smiled showing off his teeth that shined like porcelain. That smile, which made women's hearts flutter, had to be part of his well-made plan.
'He will probably look like a squid next to Edgar.'
The maids thought so too as they had seen their excessively beautiful master for a long time. Mr. Wilkins was puzzled when no one smiled back to him. However, he soon started to show Rubica various fabrics and sample dresses like a professional. As a successful designer, he had more varied fabrics than his rivals and his dresses were in the capital's latest styles.
"I think silver buttons will be good on this dress."
"Your Grace, you can't really mean it. Silver buttons are not good enough for a noble duchess like you. How about diamond buttons?"
However, Rubica thought silver buttons were perfect for that sample dress, and her face turned dark. Wilkins soon gestured to his apprentice to have him bring a different dress.
"Or how about this one? Its made of fabric imported from the faraway Sharman Kingdom. As it was made by goblins, it is very thin and has a beautiful glow."
"It is pretty."
"Yes, I plan to embroider it and put rubies on it."
"But this fabric is so thin, I think it would be better left untouched…"

How much money must I spent for you to divorce me!?

Rubika dies in a war without being able to confess her love for Arman but is instead sent back in time.

A new life, she will not live in vain

But what are these new obstacles?

------
© Jeonryeongga 2018 / D&C MEDIA 

The amazingly handsome, rich and powerful Duke Claymore wants to marry her!?

Anton has yet to hear from Yanmei. It was already lunchtime, and she had confirmed no appointment with him. His hands itched that his fingers opened the surveillance cameras inside Yanmei's office. 
He wondered what she was so busy with that she had not made a call to Junsu at this time. After minutes of keeping the window open, Yeona came inside and he immediately noticed the smile on Yanmei's face. The audio recording from the camera was loud enough to hear their conversation, and he thought to listen in to their chat. 
"Ms. Yanmei, I did not get to finish my task the other day, I was hoping I could get an extension," said Yeona. 
"Of course, Yeona. How about this? Let's work on it together, and you know what? I prefer a different environment. How about going to a coffee shop or better yet at my apartment?" Yanmei suggested. 
Anton's eyes narrowed at the thought of the two of them being alone together. He swore he had to talk to Yanmei about having an office romance. 
After Yeona left, Yanmei made a call to Junsu. "Hello, Junsu. I'd like to confirm the 3 PM appointment with Mr. Yeong."
Junsu, who was not aware of the appointment, got confused. He was about to call his boss when Aton beat him to it. He saw the other line blinking, and he asked Yanmei to stay on hold. 
"Mr. Yeong?"
"Tell Yanmei 3 PM appointment is confirmed and have her proceed to the parking lot when the time comes," said Anton. 
Junsu was alarmed. His boss was once again monitoring him through the cameras. He wondered how he had the time to keep on watching him. 
"Y  -Yes, Mr. Yeong. Thank you."
After Junsu confirmed with Yanmei, the supposed coffee appointment, Anton no longer monitored Yanmei. He went back to work as usual and at exactly 2:30 PM he got ready.
He made sure to fix his tie and his coat before running his fingers through his hair. When he was done, he realized something, 'Wait… am I anxious? Am I fixing myself for a woman? Worst, a lesbian?"
He quickly messed his hair and walked out of the office. 
He made his way to the parking lot in ten minutes. He started the car and waited inside and soon began a countdown of when Yanmei would arrive. 
"2:40 PM."
"2:45 PM."
"2:50 PM."
"2:55 PM."
Anton was literally checking his watch every five minutes. At exactly 3 PM, he opened the door to his side and waited. 
"Good afternoon, Mr. Yeong." Yanmei arrived at exactly 3:02 PM. 
He turned to her, shaking his head. He said, "You are late."
Yanmei saw the time and realized what he meant, she said, "I'm sorry, Mr. Yeong, Yeona had some questions before I - "
"Yeona, Yeona, Yeona… You realize, you often talk about Yeona," Anton said as his eyes narrowed at her. 
Bewildered, Yanmei asked, "I do? I did not notice that - "
"In any case, I want you to know that office romance is strictly forbidden!"
Yanmei's mouth hung open at his words. She immediately realized he was referring to her gay self. "Pfft! Haha! Right, Mr. Yeong. Right… I'm not into Yeona though… We are just friends."
"Really?" He asked without looking at her.
"Yes, really."
"Good! Good. Let's go." Anton drove to the streets in silence, and brought Yanmei to a different coffee shop, nearly four blocks away. 
When Anton pulled over, He said, "I like the coffee here."
Just before he got out of the car, Yanmei called him out, "Wait! Wait!"
"What?" 
Yanmei cleared her throat and slowly opened her bag. She took out her comb and handed it to him. She said, "I think you'd look better after using this."
She had earlier noticed his messy hair. She was not about to go in public with a man who could not fix his hair, even if he was handsome.
He did not use her comb. Instead, he used his fingers to brush his hair and looked himself in the mirror. When he was satisfied, signaled for them to get off the car.
Upon entering the establishment, Yanmei was caught by surprised seeing the marbled tables and chandeliers from the ceiling. The place was also spot-clean. The tables and chairs were arranged in perfect angles and the color theme was black and white. Somehow, it reminded her of Anton's office that she then blurted out, "I bet the owner has OCD."
Anton walked a few steps forward, leaving her slightly behind. 
"Mr. Yeong! Good afternoon," said one of the attendants. He quickly made his way to the door and gestured for him to take a seat. "Your usual table."
When the attendant saw Yanmei, he said, "Good afternoon, miss. The seats over here are not take - "
"She is with me." 
The attendant nearly slid from the glossy floor, shocked at hearing Yanmei was with Anton. "Ah, Mr. Yeong? She - She is with you?"
"Do -  I -  have -  to repeat myself?"
"No! No, definitely not. Mr. Yeong. Please, take your seats ."
After taking their orders, the attendant went back to the counter and prepared their requests. 
Yanmei could not help but notice that all the staff were men. It once again gave her a feel of the office. "I think the owner of this cafe likes men."
He disregarded her remarks and merely proceeded to their agenda. He looked at Yanmei saying, "You read my email?"
"No, I did not read your email - "
"It was marked read."
"So, apparently, you knew it was read… So why exactly did we have to meet after having read your email?" asked Yanmei. 
"I want to know if you have accepted my explanation," Anton asked as he crossed his arms against his chest. He had earlier practiced on how to repeat his apology in front of her but he could not say the word "sorry".
'Say it! Say it!' He told himself, but eventually, he caressed his forehead and said, "It is what it is in the email so let us put it behind us."
Before they could continue, the attendant brought the pastries and coffees at their table.
Yanmei's eyes grew wide seeing the beautifully arranged rainbow-colored sugar cubes at the base of the coffee mug. It suddenly reminded her of Garry. She said, "Haha! The owner of this shop might as well be gay - "
"I - own - this - coffee shop," said Anton. 
"Or not! Just because you serve rainbow sugar cubes, it does not make you gay. Definitely not!" Yanmei took back her words frantically. She told herself, 'Sheez. He could have just said the place was his from the start.'
Anton immediately turned to the attendant saying, "No more rainbow cubes! Only black ones. Understood?"
"Mr. Yeong? I don't think there are black ones - "
"Contact the sugar company and order only black sugar cubes!"


“I don’t like women directly reporting to me!” He yelled at her after learning he would be working with a mere woman. 

Xia Yanmei replied, “I understand how you don’t like women and I support you wholeheartedly.” 

“Are you a lunatic? I just said I detest women!” Anton Yeong repeated himself, already agitated. His brows were drawn together while his eyes were like a laser, ready to pierce a hole through her body. 

“Oh, you were referring to me? I’m sorry. Sometimes, I forget. I am actually a woman… The truth is, I am a man trapped in a woman’s body!” 

That was all she could think of to secure his trust. In order to keep her job and remain away from her father’s pestering, she tricked the cold and powerful Aton Yeong.

It was from that moment that he was willing to give her a chance, and it was because she turned herself into gay that she kept living a lie... only to regret it after falling for his unorthodox approach. 

***** 

“Can you pretend to be my girlfriend?“ Said the icy man wearing her silk robe. 

The man before her was none other than Anton Yeong the CEO of JKW Investments and Yeong Guns and Ammos Corporation.

Belonging to one of the wealthiest families in Korea, many women wished to be wed to this indifferent man, but he chose to make her his fake lover.

 ***** 

What happens when a man who swore women away gets into a fake relationship who equally hates men? Will they find their way to believe in love? 

Anton Yeong believed that relationships were a burden because of his dark world. Will he lower down his guard for the right girl? 

This is the story of Xia Yanmei and Anton Yeong. Two individuals who swore never to fall in love. 

They find themselves in a hilarious misunderstanding, preventing them from telling their true heart’s yearning. 

Join me as I tell this romantic-comedy through this book and hope that you will love it the same way as my first novel. 

*****

WARNING: THIS NOVEL FEATURES MATURE CONTENTS, USE OF OFFENSIVE LANGUAGE AND MYSTERY PLOTS.

IF THE ABOVE IS ACCEPTABLE TO YOU, PROCEED WITH CAUTION.

*****

I have two covers, one is a bought licensed picture. The other is a photo by Sergio Souza of Unsplash. 

If you prefer a novel that is naughty with both action and lots of love (smuts included), you may go for The President's Lover is a Fighter. The story is nearing its end so you won't end up in a cliffhanger.

Support me and my love of telling a story through PayPal: paypal.me/LiLHyzAuthor

Masanori Suzuhara usually contacted her classmates and seniors in Japan using Line, but she'd started using Wechat after coming to China. School hadn't started yet, and she only had a few Wechat contacts, including the counselor and Zhang Zian. 
She went back to the international student's residence, and set up a cozy spot for Snoopy. Pets weren't forbidden in the residence, but otherwise she would have to rent a room outside. Rent in China was cheaper than Japan and there was no need to pay unnecessary money. Still, she wanted to get to know more Chinese friends during her limited days in the country.　　
Although she'd taken care of former Snoopy in the lab for a long time, technically this was still her first time owning a pet of her own. She didn't know that beagles often annoyed the neighbors and she started to grow anxious after remembering the conversation between Zhang Zian and Qian Bowen.　　
This Snoopy was well trained by Zhang Zian at the pet shop, and only barked once or twice since it had arrived at the residence. She remembered Zhang Zian's advice and resisted the urge to look back at it. She stared at her phone, and didn't even turn her head when it barked.　　
She received lots of Line greetings from her lab seniors, asking her how she was doing in China, what it was like around her, and if she was being mistreated by anyone.　　
Masanori Suzuhara read the messages and smiled. Before coming here, all she knew about China was through TV news and costume dramas, which easily could have exaggerated the way things actually were. The seniors' worries were understandable.　
Snoopy barked two more times, but she continued to ignore it. After that, it stopped barking, and sniffed around the room the explore the new territory. 　　
Masanori Suzuhara had been paying attention to its movements, and felt reassured after seeing that it had finally stopped barking. The former Snoopys were kept in a lab that had good sound insulation, and even then, nobody was there during the night time. Nobody cared how much they barked. But the residence was different.　
She responded to all of the greetings from her seniors, and tried her best to clarify their misunderstandings about China, telling them not to worry as she tried to adapt to her new life.　　
In addition, some of her close girl friends were asking her if she'd been eating properly, and if she could ever get used to the food in China. They told her to take more local products from Japan with her the next time she travelled back.　　
The most frequently asked question, from either her seniors or classmates, was asking why she hadn't updated Twitter in such a long time, and if she had run into any difficulties or trouble.　　
Regarding this subject, she just told them it was a long story. She wanted to complain, but she wasn't able to actually say anything.　
After answering all of the greetings, she asked her seniors about the biomedical device company that had been cooperating with the lab, along with inquires about their contact information.
The seniors did some research and sent her the company's information.　　
Her phone vibrated. The delivery man had arrived at the international students' residence, and was calling for her to pick up her stuff. The cage she ordered from the pet shop had arrived.　　
Masanori Suzuhara put aside her other business, picked up the cage downstairs, paid for the courier, and then started to set up a cozy space for Snoopy. She was following Zhang Zian's advice. It was necessary to use a cage before Snoopy was fully trained.　
She put an old blanket in the cage, and put another layer of waterproof cloth on top, in case Snoopy peed or pooped while inside. The old blanket was actually only a few days old.　　
After that, she put a pair of old gloves on top of the old blanket. According to Zhang Zian, when she was not in the room, it would be better to let Snoopy keep on smelling her. It would calm the dog down, so it wouldn't panically bark for its missing owner.　　
The shopping bag from the pet shop was on the table, and the QR code was too glaring to be ignored. She took out another item from the bag. It was the last resort to stop the beagle from barking; a dog mask. The dog couldn't open its mouth once it was on, thus preventing it from making any noise. However, she didn't want to use this unless she had to. 　　
The dog mask was much different from a shock collar. It was defensive, practical, and useful.
When Zhang Zian recommended the dog mask to Masanori Suzuhara, he took the time to educate her about the reality of China.　　
When walking a dog outside, no matter how friendly the dog was, if it was not as obedient as a police dog, it would always be better to use a mask. Apart from preventing bad situations of biting and barking, the mask could also prevent the dog from eating unknown food. Every year, many dogs died from poisoning after eating random food from outside.  　　
If some person hated either the dog or the owner, they could place poisonous bait in their residential areas. The dog would die as soon as it consumed it, leaving no time for medical aid. If a regular dog had not been fully trained to resist this type of food, it was necessary to put on a mask when it went outside, before something terrible happened.
She was horrified after hearing this, and immediately agreed to buy the mask.　　
After entering the cage, Snoopy barked a few more times. Maybe it didn't want to be locked up. But Masanori Suzuhara ignored it, opened her laptop, and started writing out an email using the contact information provided by her seniors. The email address they gave her was not an official company address, but the personal email of a business manager whom the seniors knew very well and often had drinks with.　　
The seniors asked her what her purpose was when they provided her the contact information. She replied that she had received a favor from a pet shop owner in China, and was trying to do something to return the favor.　　
She stated her identity and intentions in the email, hoping that the recipient would make an exception. After all, this company had only been selling their automatic dog washers in Japan, and not in other countries. Transportation was a major issue. An automatic dog washer was heavy and bulky, much bigger than common washing machines used in households. 　　
After sending the email, Masanori Suzuhara saw that Snoopy had already quieted down, and was staring at her while lying down in the cage. Its eyes looked a bit sad.　
"Good job, Snoopy," she said, praising it.　　
She let it out of its cage, and sat down on the cold floor with it, as part of her old habits. She trained it to sit, squat, and lie down with some treats.　　
Snoopy immediately got excited, and played with her happily. However, it wasn't responding to her training demands. Beagles were often too lively and difficult to train, as they were not obedient. Still, she knew that some beagles were trained as police dogs to detect drugs. 
"Woof!"　　
Snoopy jumped to grab the food out of her hands, and barked with disappointment after failing to do so.　　
Masanori Suzuhara quickly stood up from the ground and went back to her seat. She noticed that a new email had arrived.　　
The business manager replied to her email, saying that the company was not planning on expanding the automatic dog washer business in China just yet. But, the company was going to bring a machine to China to participate in a home technology exhibition. If they didn't mind, the company would consider leaving the washer behind, the one that was going to be used as a sample for the display. It would spare them the trouble of shipping it back to Japan. However, they needed to discuss the further details of the plan and they also couldn't offer free warranty services.　　
After seeing that its owner was ignoring it, Snoopy heistantly came over, circled her chair a few times around, sniffed her feet, and then stood up to put its two front paws on her leg, asking her to play.　　
Masanori Suzuhara was trying to focus on the email. She had to let Snoopy know that barking meant punishment, which included barking from being ignored and being without food or play. She'd heard about the trouble that Qian Bowen had encountered with his beagle. She must pay close attention, in order not to repeat the same mistakes and to avoid annoying others.　　
She read the email twice, thought about it, and then texted Zhang Zian. She was only the messenger responsible for relaying the message to Zhang Zian. Zhang Zian had to make the final decision, and see if he was willing to accept a sample automatic dog washer from the exhibition. 　　
Snoopy barked two more times and scratched her leg to get her attention. But it was only disappointed. The owner was acting like a wooden statue, focused on her work, and not responding to its behavior.　　
Zhang Zian replied quicker than she had expected.　　
He texted her back and said, he knew about the challenges from shipping, and didn't mind if it was a display sample from the exhibition. He was willing to buy it at the price of a new machine. As for the warranty, it was a shame, but he couldn't really do anything about it. The company didn't have a branch in China, and he understood their reasoning. If the machine broke while using, he was willing to pay for the repairs himself.　　
Masanori Suzuhara incorporated Zhang Zian's reply in her email, and sent it back to the business manager.　　
Snoopy laid down by her feet sadly, and looked up at her from time to time. It seemed to have accepted the fact that she did not like to be disturbed while working, and had to wait for her to finish.　　
After it had calmed down, Masanori Suzuhara leaned over, placed it on her lap, and combed its hair with a small brush. She said gently, "Snoopy, don't bark, and don't annoy other people. Otherwise, I wont play with you."　　
Despite the fact that it was named Snoopy, it was actually a female dog. Female beagles were quieter than the males. The one that Qian Bowen had owned was male, and barked more for that reason.　　
Snoopy laid on her lap comfortably and let her brush its hair. It didn't bark at all.　　
The business manager replied to her email again, saying that they appreciated the accommodation of their Chinese counterparts. He also brought along some good news. Since the voltage in Japan was 110V, not compatible with the voltage in China, to ensure a successful demonstration in the exhibition, the company would bring a special voltage converter to China and give it to them with the machine for free after the exhibtion.　　
Masanori Suzuhara tapped her forehead, and thanked them for being so considerate. She hadn't thought of this issue before. If they had gotten the automatic dog washer, but couldn't use it because of its different voltage, she would have been so embarrased.　
She informed Zhang Zian of the latest news, and successfully fufilled her role as messenger.　　
"Great job, Snoopy. You're being really good," she said to it gently.　　



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3. Go through interesting daily routines and lead the pet shop to a whole new level

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