《The Games of Love》


 Chapter 1: Bound by Secrets

    ¡°Get off me!¡±


    The deep voice was filled with suppressed anger. Alexander Westwood, who was usually untouchable, was pinned down on the couch, his black shirt partially unbuttoned. The corners of his eyes, obscured by his glasses, were tinged with frustration.


    ¡°I won¡¯t!¡±


    Jane Lang bit her lip, her resolve growing stronger.


    ¡°Why are you resisting? Are you not interested?¡±


    Before she could finish, Alexander¡¯s dark eyes deepened further. His grip on her arm tightened, his gaze penetrating. ¡°Jane Lang!¡±


    In a swift motion, he flipped their positions, pinning her beneath him. His hand rested lightly on her shoulder. ¡°Have I been too lenient with you? Hmm?¡±


    His tone was calm, but it sent a chill down her spine.


    ¡°Alexander¡­¡±


    Jane¡¯s eyes held determination as she reached up, pulling him closer. ¡°If you push me away like this, I¡¯ll call my brother and tell him you¡¯ve been treating me unfairly.¡±


    Her voice was soft, a mix of challenge and desperation.


    There was an alluring quality to her words.


    Her curly hair framed her face, and in this position, a few strands brushed against Alexander¡¯s shirt.


    She used to call him "brother" so sweetly.


    Now, the name "Alexander" slipped effortlessly from her lips.


    He stared at her in silence, his eyes sharp.


    Jane had been saved by Alexander and her brother, Liam Summers, five years ago during a mission. Her parents had died in that same incident, and at just fifteen years old, Jane had been taken in by the Summers family, becoming Liam¡¯s adopted sister.


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    Later, Liam returned to his unit, and Alexander moved on to different endeavors.


    The Lang family business also changed hands in the chaos.


    At that time, Jane had struggled with her mental health, finding it hard to trust anyone around her. The Summers family, unsure of how to support her, entrusted her to Alexander¡¯s care, following Liam¡¯s recommendation.


    Everyone knew that Alexander had a sharp mind and lacked patience, especially when it came to helping a teenage girl.


    Yet, three years passed.


    Jane didn¡¯t return to the Summers household until after her 18th birthday, finally regaining her lively and sweet self. And today, on her 20th birthday, the Summers family was hosting a grand party, inviting many eligible bachelors from the city.


    It was no secret that the Summers family was experiencing financial difficulties.


    It seemed they hoped that their adopted daughter could repay them for their kindness by accepting an arranged marriage.


    ¡°But you¡¯ve taken care of me for the longest. If I owe anyone, it¡¯s you,¡± Jane whispered, her eyelashes fluttering as she moved closer to him, half pleading and half demanding.


    ¡°Alexander, if you don¡¯t help me get out of this marriage, I¡¯ll tell them you¡¯ve been treating me like a child this entire time.¡±


    She was only twenty and had no desire to marry someone she barely knew.


    No one could compare to him.


    Alexander narrowed his cold eyes, scrutinizing her as if he could see straight into her soul.


    In her tear-filled eyes, there was well-hidden fear and desperation.


    Could this clever girl really be afraid?


    Hah.


    He released his grip and started to rise, but Jane clung to him tightly. He remained still and spoke coldly, ¡°You could just tell Liam you don¡¯t want to marry. Wouldn¡¯t that be easier?¡±


    Jane shook her head. ¡°I can¡¯t.¡±


    If it weren¡¯t for Liam saving her, she would have been lost long ago.


    Over the past few years, her adoptive parents had treated her well, even during the three years she lived with Alexander. They always showed concern and made sure she had everything she needed.


    How could she refuse when they asked her to save the family by marrying?


    Jane was grateful to them. She couldn¡¯t say no.


    But she didn¡¯t want to marry, either.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t want to speak, then show me,¡± Alexander¡¯s breath was no longer calm. He glanced at the girl beneath him, her exposed shoulder reminding him of the trust she had placed in him. ¡°Is this how I taught you to stand up for yourself?¡±


    After her parents passed, Jane had been sheltered. When Alexander first started caring for her, she was naive, still in her adolescence. He had taught her many things.


    But now, it seemed this girl had learned how to assert herself.


    ¡°You''re not like anyone else¡­¡±


    Jane muttered softly, her heart racing despite her attempts to act composed. Gathering her courage, she reached up and touched his cheek gently. ¡°Besides, aren¡¯t you close with my brother? Can¡¯t you help the Summers family, and help me just this once?¡±

 Chapter 2锛欴angerous Game

    She knew that Alexander Westwood had the power to save the Summers Corporation.


    But even with his previous attempts to bail them out, both overt and covert, their mismanagement was a deep-rooted problem. This time, the damage wasn''t something that could be easily fixed¡ªhelping them would be a bottomless pit. The Summers family knew it too, which is why they stopped asking for his help directly.


    Instead, they placed their hopes on Jane Lang.


    Alexander, usually an untouchable figure of restraint, now looked anything but. His tie was loosened, his chiseled chest on full display, the raw energy he exuded was intoxicating, his presence as magnetic as ever. He closed his eyes, jaw tight with barely suppressed tension.


    "Go back to your own room. We''ll talk tomorrow."


    "Tomorrow?" Jane''s frustration flickered in her eyes. By tomorrow, her stepmother would surely be introducing her to another suitor!


    Her teeth grazed her lower lip, the color vivid and inviting. She had known from the start that Alexander wouldn''t be easily swayed, which is why she''d orchestrated this seduction.


    Tonight''s birthday celebration wasn''t just a party for her. Besides the wealthy heirs and high-society figures attending, Alexander''s presence was crucial. After all, he was closer to Jane than anyone, and her family wanted his input on the possible matches.


    Drinks had flowed, conversations blended together, and eventually, Alexander had stayed the night at the Summers'' villa.


    Everything had gone according to Jane''s plan. Now, it was up to her to make her move. If her family was set on marriage as a solution, why couldn''t it be to him?


    She was all in. Either Alexander agreed to help her escape this arranged fate, or she would cross the final line.


    She would have him.


    Alexander was leaning back on the sofa, eyes closed as he breathed heavily in the dimly lit room. Jane stared at the faint flush of red creeping up his neck, her eyes gleaming with determination.


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    She moved gracefully, her silk dress slipping precariously from her shoulders, the delicate straps barely clinging to her frame. In one smooth motion, she straddled him, her long legs settling across his lap.


    Alexander''s hand instinctively gripped her waist, his eyes snapping open to find the girl hovering above him, her gaze intense and tempting. She leaned forward to kiss him, one hand wandering lower, testing boundaries.


    "Get off," he growled.


    "Why not? You don''t like it?" Jane asked, her voice soft, her lips almost brushing his. "But... I don''t know what else to do. You should teach me, Alexander."


    His eyes narrowed, surprise flickering through his usual icy stare. He had always known she was rebellious at heart, but she usually masked it well, presenting herself as the well-behaved, harmless girl.


    But this side of her¡ªthis bold, seductive side¡ªwas entirely new.


    "Teach you?" Alexander scoffed, his voice cold as he tried to push her away. But suddenly, the world around him spun, dizziness settling in. Her teasing touches broke through the iron wall of his self-control, stripping it away.


    His pulse quickened, and desire surged uncontrollably. He let out a deep breath.


    "You really have some nerve."


    He could feel it now¡ªshe had drugged him.


    Jane''s gaze flickered downward, her nervousness showing for just a moment as she caught sight of his growing reaction.


    "Looks like your lessons really worked," she whispered, her voice shaky but still daring.


    "Oh, really?" Alexander pulled off his glasses, and the cold, calculated man was gone, replaced by something darker, more dangerous. His hand tightened around her neck, not enough to hurt, but enough to remind her who held the power here. His voice dripped with menace.


    "If this is what you want, then I''ll give you a lesson you won''t forget."


    His lips crashed against hers, his kisses demanding, as if trying to steal the breath from her lungs. Jane tilted her head back, gasping for air, trapped between the man''s relentless desire and her own rising excitement.


    His grip on her neck was firm, not painful but commanding. The heat of his breath against her ear sent shivers down her spine, stirring something deep inside her.


    "Jane," he growled lowly, his voice rough with lust. "Don''t say I didn''t warn you."


    Jane''s head rested in his large hand, her back pressed against the sofa, nowhere to go. Her heart raced wildly in her chest as she stared up at him, her body trembling with anticipation.


    His dark eyes bore into hers, a dangerous storm brewing behind them.


    She bit her lip, trembling fingers reaching for him again. "I won''t regret it," she whispered, her voice barely audible.


    With a sharp, cold laugh, Alexander''s eyes darkened, the last of his restraint shattering as he tore at her dress. The storm he had been holding back finally broke free.

 Chapter 3: Lifelong Commitment

    Jane Lang had proven one thing: it was a bad idea to provoke an older man who had been celibate for too long, and even worse to slip something into the drink of a man who held grudges.


    Until the early hours of the morning, the sounds of her pleading and crying filled the room.


    The next day, Jane woke up feeling sore all over.


    Outside the window, the sky was overcast with drizzling rain, casting a heavy gloom over the city that made it hard to breathe.


    "Ugh¡­"


    This man really is ruthless!


    Jane bit back her discomfort and sat up, realizing the spot next to her was already cold. She wondered if he had gotten up early or if he had left right after they were done last night.


    At this thought, her face paled slightly. In a panic, she threw on some clothes and dashed out of the room.


    In the living room downstairs, Alexander Westwood was engaged in an intense game of chess with Liam Summers.


    Both men turned to her as they heard the commotion. "Jane''s up?"


    Liam smiled warmly before frowning, "Why do you look so pale? Are you feeling unwell?"


    Jane shook her head, too hurried to analyze the sincerity behind his words. Her gaze fixated on Alexander, and she felt a flicker of relief.


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    Thank goodness. He didn''t leave.


    At least it proved that last night''s efforts weren''t in vain.


    Alexander had already returned to his impeccably dressed self. His tailored suit was crisp and free of wrinkles, and he sat upright, exuding an air of seriousness and elegance.


    His gaze was fixed on her, but the dark eyes behind his glasses betrayed no emotion.


    Jane felt a twinge in her heart from his half-smile, and she quickly averted her gaze.


    Suddenly, the doorbell rang, cutting through the strange atmosphere in the living room. Aunt Ding emerged from the kitchen to answer the door, revealing He Siyuan, who stepped in carrying various gifts with a warm smile. "Aunt Ding, sorry to intrude."


    "Not at all!"


    Aunt Ding beamed as she led him into the living room. "I figured you would arrive soon. Please, have a seat; dinner will be ready shortly."


    After a few steps, she spotted Jane at the foot of the stairs and beckoned, "Jane, say hello to Siyuan. Really, this boy comes loaded with gifts!"


    Jane bit her lip, feeling as if her feet were weighed down with lead.


    While she wasn''t unfamiliar with He Siyuan, the fact that he was visiting at this moment could only mean one thing.


    He Siyuan was the arranged suitor chosen for her.


    He scratched his head, awkwardly greeting her, "Jane."


    The girl before him, though lacking makeup and with slightly tousled hair draped over her shoulders, was casually dressed in a sweater and fuzzy slippers.


    Even in her disheveled appearance, she radiated a unique charm¡ªadorable and pure, yet also lazy and alluring.


    Marrying her would be a good deal.


    Jane had no idea what he was thinking; she instinctively shot a glance at Alexander, managing a reluctant smile as she pointed behind her. "I, uh, need to go change."


    He nodded, and she hurried back upstairs.


    Once in her room, she let out a heavy sigh of relief.


    Today¡¯s dinner was likely meant as a prelude to a formal meeting between families, even leaving them little time to get to know each other.


    He Siyuan looked like a delicate scholar; she had known a little about him before.


    Jane wasn¡¯t interested.


    She bit her lip, her dazed gaze drifting across the big bed, where memories of last night¡¯s wildness and Alexander''s deep, passionate eyes lingered.


    Jane¡¯s face flushed, and her fingers clenched then relaxed, making a swift decision.


    She timed her descent to coincide with dinner preparations. When she reached the dining table, everyone had settled in, and she was uncertain of what had transpired, but the atmosphere was calm and peaceful now.


    Aunt Ding waved her over, "Jane, come sit here."


    The seat was right next to He Siyuan, across from Alexander.


    Jane kept her expression neutral as she lowered her gaze, taking a seat while greeting the others at the table. Aunt Ding just finished serving all the dishes, so eating felt natural.


    "Jane may be still young, but thinking ahead about lifelong commitments isn¡¯t a bad thing," Aunt Ding observed, discreetly evaluating everyone¡¯s expressions before finally resting her gaze on Alexander''s indifferent face, weighing her words.


    "Speaking of which, Alexander can be considered a guardian of Jane. What do you think?"

 Chapter 4: Complexity of Emotions

    ¡°Who would have thought?¡± Aunt Ding¡¯s cheerful voice broke the silence at the dinner table. ¡°These two kids might have a bright future together.¡±


    Jane Lang felt a wave of discomfort wash over her. She glanced at Alexander Westwood, who maintained his composed demeanor, showing no visible reaction to Aunt Ding¡¯s words. His dark eyes remained inscrutable behind the glasses.


    ¡°Thank you, Aunt Ding.¡± Jane forced a smile, trying to mask her inner turmoil. Her thoughts were a tangled mess, oscillating between the intimacy she had experienced the night before and the stiff formality of the current situation.


    He Siyuan spoke up, his tone a touch nervous. ¡°I mean, it¡¯s just a meal. We hardly know each other yet.¡± He flashed a friendly but awkward smile, trying to ease the atmosphere.


    ¡°You¡¯ll get to know each other better tonight,¡± Aunt Ding encouraged, completely oblivious to Jane¡¯s inner conflict. ¡°Family dinners are the best way to bond!¡±


    The table was laden with an array of dishes, and Jane found herself mechanically serving food to everyone, her mind racing. How would she keep her emotions in check around Alexander after what had happened?


    As the conversation flowed around her, she felt herself caught in a whirlwind. Liam Summers casually shared stories about his latest adventures, his warm laughter ringing through the air, making it easy to forget the weight of her predicament.


    ¡°I recently went hiking in the mountains,¡± Liam shared, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. ¡°The views were incredible, and the sunset was worth every bit of the effort walking up there!¡±


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    Jane gave a half-hearted smile, her attention drifting back to Alexander. She noted how he engaged in the conversation, nodding and offering thoughtful comments, yet his gaze occasionally flickered in her direction, making her pulse quicken.


    ¡°Jane, do you like hiking?¡± Liam asked, breaking through her reverie.


    ¡°Oh, uh¡­¡± Jane stumbled over her words, not wanting to appear disinterested. ¡°I enjoy the outdoors, but I haven¡¯t had the chance to hike much lately.¡±


    ¡°Well, you should join me next time!¡± Liam said with a wide smile. ¡°It would be fun!¡±


    Jane felt a sense of guilt wash over her at the thought of straying from the path her family had laid out for her. She glanced at Alexander, his expression unreadable. Was he judging her?


    ¡°Perhaps we can arrange a group hike,¡± Alexander remarked, his voice steady and calm. ¡°It could be a way for all of us to get to know each other better.¡±


    Liam beamed at the idea, but Jane¡¯s heart sank. A group hike? Did he really want to include her, or was he simply fulfilling an obligation?


    As the meal continued, the conversation danced from humorous anecdotes to serious topics, and Jane found it hard to concentrate. She was painfully aware of the tension coiling in her stomach¡ªan explosion of emotions colliding within her.


    When the dinner finally concluded, Jane rose to help Aunt Ding clear the table, seeking a brief moment of solace amidst the chaos. As she stacked dishes, she felt Alexander¡¯s presence behind her.


    ¡°Jane,¡± he said softly, ¡°can we talk for a moment?¡±


    She turned to face him, her chest tightening. ¡°Sure.¡±


    They stepped away from the din of conversation, finding themselves in a quiet corner of the living room. The atmosphere shifted, the air thick with unspoken words.


    ¡°I know this is all very sudden,¡± Alexander began, his tone serious. ¡°But I want you to know that I¡¯m not against this arrangement.¡±


    Jane held his gaze, trying to discern his true feelings. ¡°What do you really think about it?¡± she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.


    He hesitated for a moment before continuing. ¡°We both have our own lives, and I don¡¯t want you to feel trapped. But I also understand the weight of family expectations.¡±


    His honesty took Jane by surprise. It was refreshing to hear someone acknowledge the complexities of their situation rather than simply accept it.


    ¡°I appreciate that,¡± she replied, feeling a flicker of relief. ¡°I want to be honest too. This is... overwhelming.¡±


    ¡°I get it,¡± he nodded, his expression softening. ¡°Just know, whatever happens, I¡¯m open to discussing it. We can figure things out together.¡±


    Jane felt her heart race at his words. The connection they had from the previous night echoed in her mind. Could they really navigate this unexpected crossroads together?


    ¡°Thank you, Alexander,¡± she said, her voice steadier now. ¡°That means a lot to me.¡±


    With a small smile, he stepped back into the living room, leaving Jane contemplating the uncertainty of her future and the possibilities that lay ahead

 Chapter 5: Secrets and Revelations

    Jane Lang glanced at the driver in front of the partition.


    He probably can¡¯t hear us, right?


    Her earlobes turned red, and she shook her head, saying, ¡°It¡¯s broken.¡±


    Jane wasn¡¯t an innocent girl who knew nothing; in this extravagant era, she had inevitably heard about various scandals. However, having just stepped into the adult world, how could she truly remain unaffected?


    Alexander Westwood noticed her embarrassment and a hidden smile flickered in his deep-set eyes. He mocked, ¡°So now you know it hurts? Not so brave as you were last night, huh?¡±


    Though he teased, he still pressed the button to lower the partition. ¡°Go to the hospital.¡±


    Assistant Zheng Nan was about to agree, but Jane quickly blushed and said, ¡°No¡­ no hospital! Alexander Westwood, you just want to see me embarrassed, right?!¡±


    Zheng Nan cast a glance at the rearview mirror and saw his boss smirking. To cover it up, he coughed lightly and said in a steady tone, ¡°Then let¡¯s stop by a pharmacy.¡±


    Only then did Jane feel relieved, and she lifted the partition back up.


    She fidgeted with her fingers. ¡°Alexander, what¡­ are you planning to do?¡±


    They had already slept together; this older man wouldn¡¯t be irresponsible, would he?


    With a captivating coolness in his voice, Alexander replied, ¡°What do you think we should do?¡±


    ¡°Marry me.¡±


    Jane swallowed hard, suppressing the tension in her heart.


    ¡°I know that your family¡¯s company was secretly acquired by you back then. Since you¡¯ve already taken the dowry, and we¡¯ve shared a physical relationship, it wouldn¡¯t make sense for you not to marry me.¡±


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    By the end, her tone had taken on a hint of desperation.


    She had already made herself clear. If he still wasn¡¯t willing¡­


    Then she would have to think of other ways!


    Alexander gazed intently at the stubborn girl before him. She was no longer the na?ve girl he had known at fifteen; she had grown up and learned to play her cards.


    He hadn¡¯t expected that the acquisition of the Jiang family business had been so discreet that she, a schoolgirl at the time, would have known nothing about it.


    Suddenly, Alexander chuckled.


    How could a girl who skipped two grades in middle school be foolish?


    When Jane didn¡¯t receive a response for a while, anxiety fluttered in her chest. She reached out to wrap her arms around his neck and said softly, ¡°You wouldn¡¯t really want to see me marry He Siyuan, would you? I don¡¯t like him.¡±


    Alexander brushed her hands away, creating distance between them while also putting space between himself and her intoxicating scent. ¡°You and He Siyuan are of the same age. It wouldn¡¯t hurt to get to know him better. If you really don¡¯t like him, then we can talk.¡±


    He was nearly thirty, after all.


    While she was still a child, incapable of navigating an adult world.


    Jane wasn¡¯t surprised he would say something like that. This older man had always mentioned the generation gap between them, and he certainly wouldn¡¯t change his views overnight just because they had shared a night together.


    But this essentially meant a roundabout refusal: he wouldn¡¯t marry her.


    She huffed, crossing her arms and sulking. ¡°What do I need to know him for?!¡±


    The two of them, each lost in their own thoughts, turned their gazes to the windows, and neither spoke.


    Before long, Zheng Nan parked in front of a pharmacy. Alexander personally got out to buy medicine and returned, glancing at the driver¡¯s seat before saying sternly, ¡°Go back and apply the medicine. If there¡¯s still no improvement, let Zheng Nan take you to the hospital.¡±


    Jane puffed out her chin defiantly. ¡°Who broke it, who cleans it!¡±


    At that moment, she resembled a proud little princess, sulking.


    Alexander knew her temperament well and pinched the bridge of his nose. Though he was annoyed, he couldn¡¯t find any words of rebuttal. Last night, while Jane acted recklessly, he had also been sufficiently absurd.


    Besides, the poor girl was injured on her first time; she did have a valid grievance.


    Just as he was about to speak, his phone suddenly rang.


    Jane barely caught a few muffled words from the call before she witnessed Alexander¡¯s expression change drastically. He tossed the medicine at her.


    ¡°Pull over and take her home.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t until the man beside her left, and the car resumed moving that Jane regained her senses. The only thought swirling in her mind was that Alexander had left her to see some other woman and hadn¡¯t even bothered to help her apply the medicine.


    The Maybach stopped in front of the South Garden villa. Zheng Nan got out to help her take her luggage inside.


    ¡°No need, Brother Zheng.¡±


    Jane smiled, determined. ¡°I can go in by myself. You should hurry back to your work.¡±


    Zheng Nan was momentarily taken aback by her smile, feeling that it was a bit unfair for Mr. Westwood to leave this young lady behind. Lowering his voice, he asked, ¡°Really don''t need my help? Mr. Westwood¡¯s task today shouldn¡¯t require me; I¡¯m not very busy.¡±


    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t you be needed?¡± Jane asked, her expression slightly changing. ¡°Isn¡¯t he busy with work?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Zheng Nan recalled the person Mr. Westwood had asked him to pick up two days earlier. He felt that sharing wouldn¡¯t hurt, ¡°The president is likely going to meet with old friends.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I see.¡±


    ¡°Then it¡¯s no trouble, Brother Zheng. Thanks for bringing me here.¡±


    Jane had always disliked troubling others. Nodding in gratitude, she pulled her suitcase toward the entrance, her mind occupied with Zheng Nan¡¯s words, not noticing the red BMW that had appeared in the courtyard.


    As she unlocked the door, a figure suddenly popped out, ¡°Westwood, you¡­¡±


    ¡°Why are you here?!¡±

 Chapter 6: Too Late for Gratitude

    Jane Lang was momentarily stunned. ¡°Ding Yuan?¡±


    The Ding family and the Westwood family had a long-standing friendship. As the daughter of the Ding family, it was no secret that she had been fond of Alexander Westwood for many years. But why was she here at the South Garden?


    As the atmosphere between them grew increasingly awkward, Chen Wan emerged from the house. ¡°Yuan Yuan, is that... Xiao Ye?¡±


    She was baffled.


    Why had Jane suddenly returned?


    Alexander had taken care of Jane for three years, and the family was well aware of this. They liked the girl very much, but hadn¡¯t she already been returned to the Xia family?


    Jane snapped back to her senses, stepping forward with a sweet smile to hug Chen Wan. ¡°Aunt Wan, it¡¯s been so long! I¡¯ve missed you!¡±


    ¡°...I¡¯ve missed you too, Xiao Ye!¡± Chen Wan gushed.


    Without a daughter, she couldn¡¯t help but adore such a cute girl.


    Ding Yuan stood awkwardly to the side, feeling somewhat aggrieved. ¡°Aunt Chen¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh dear, look at my memory!¡± Chen Wan quickly glanced at Ding Yuan to reassure her and explained, ¡°Xiao Ye used to live with Wen Yan. He¡¯s eight years older than her, and he treated her like a daughter. It¡¯s normal for her to come back and stay occasionally.¡±


    As Jane listened, her smile grew wider.


    Daughter?


    She certainly didn¡¯t have a father as ¡°hard¡± as Alexander Westwood!


    Ding Yuan was well aware of the past and could easily read the suggestive glances between Jane and Chen Wan. She snorted, saying, ¡°Aunt Chen, Wen Yan treats her like a junior. Who knows what she¡¯s really thinking?!¡±


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    Chen Wan brushed it off, laughing. ¡°How could that be? Xiao Ye, what do you think?¡±


    ¡°Brother Xu takes great care of me.¡±


    Jane looked into Ding Yuan¡¯s eyes, seemingly asking, "I¡¯m too busy repaying him to think about anything else."


    Offering her body was the best way to repay him, after all.


    Last night, the older man had nearly wished she could pay with her life.


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk more inside!¡± Chen Wan reached for the suitcase in Jane¡¯s hand. ¡°I made your favorite sweet and sour ribs! Let me ask Wen Yan when he¡¯ll be back. I suddenly brought Yuan Yuan along; I hope he won¡¯t be upset¡­¡±


    She murmured to herself as she turned to go inside.


    Jane glanced at Ding Yuan, subtly raising an eyebrow, then brushed past her to catch up with Chen Wan, explaining why she had moved back in.


    Ding Yuan watched their harmonious figures retreat, biting her lip in frustration, feeling powerless.


    Jane¡¯s room was right next to the master bedroom upstairs, just as it had been two years ago when she left.


    After taking a shower, she took out the ointment from her bag to play with.


    I wonder how Alexander described it to the pharmacist?


    Jane thought for a while but couldn¡¯t quite imagine the scene. She shook her head to clear her muddled thoughts and squeezed out a bit of ointment to apply.


    ¡°Ugh¡­¡±


    Ouch, ouch, ouch!


    Jane had always been delicate, and she didn¡¯t know if it was the medication or just her mind playing tricks on her; her eyes instantly turned red.


    She couldn¡¯t blame Alexander for this; he was right that it was her own doing. Who told her to provoke the older man when she was too full to think?


    But it really hurt.


    Feeling miserable, Jane tossed the ointment aside and curled up under her blanket.


    When Alexander returned, Chen Wan had already prepared a table full of dishes. Ding Yuan was in an apron, helping out, looking like the lady of the house.


    ¡°Wen Yan! You¡¯re back!¡±


    She looked at the man entering and felt overjoyed.


    Alexander nodded slightly to greet her and glanced at Chen Wan behind her. ¡°Mom, why didn¡¯t you say you were coming?¡±


    ¡°I came with a task, and since Yuan Yuan was here, I brought her along,¡± Chen Wan explained in a few quick sentences, placing the last dish on the table. ¡°How long has it been since you last came home? Do you plan to keep this cold war with your dad going?¡±


    Alexander didn¡¯t respond but furrowed his brow, scanning the surroundings. ¡°Where is she?¡±


    ¡°Xiao Ye?¡± Chen Wan pointed upstairs. ¡°She just got back and said she was a bit tired, so she wanted to rest. Dinner is all ready; why don''t you go call her down?¡±


    ¡°Mm.¡±


    ¡°Oh no! I haven¡¯t steamed the garlic shrimp that Xiao Ye loves¡­¡±


    Alexander went upstairs while Chen Wan hurried back to the kitchen.


    Ding Yuan stood gripping the edge of her apron, her gaze shifting slowly from the kitchen to the stairs, staring intently at the man¡¯s back as he disappeared around the corner.


    If it had been her delusion before, now she was almost certain¡ª


    Jane and Alexander were anything but innocent!


    Who inquired about a junior by asking, ¡°Where is she?¡±


    For her, that was an extremely intimate and ambiguous word.


    Ding Yuan bit her lip, her emotions swirling within her, reluctant to believe such an outcome. After all, there was an eight-year age gap between Alexander and Jane; it should have been just the girl¡¯s reliance on him.


    After going upstairs, Alexander walked directly into Jane¡¯s room, which was unlocked.


    He pushed the door open and immediately saw a lump on the bed that seemed to be quivering slightly, as if¡­ she was crying?


    ¡°Jane.¡±


    There was no response.


    Alexander¡¯s brow twitched, and he closed the door behind him as he walked over to the bed, his voice inadvertently becoming much softer, ¡°Why are you crying?¡±


    Only then did Jane lift her gaze to look at him, her eyes red like a rabbit¡¯s.


    ¡°Did you apply the ointment?¡±

 Chapter 7: Boundaries

    ¡°No!¡±


    She couldn¡¯t do it herself; after all, she¡¯d asked him to do it!


    Alexander Westwood''s sharp gaze caught her restraint and the corners of her eyes, tinged with a hint of red from her indignation, deepening the darkness in his own eyes.


    He reached under the covers, a sudden chill washing over them. "You brought this upon yourself. Don''t be afraid of the pain."


    The contact lasted only a moment.


    Jane Lang had planned to take the opportunity to joke around but felt her face flush instead.


    How embarrassing.


    She tensed up completely, and Alexander could clearly feel her tension; it reminded him of how she had been last night, at the peak of emotion¡ªlike a bewitching spirit that could steal souls and pull people into the abyss.


    His breathing grew heavier, and Jane could even hear the intensified rhythm of his heartbeat.


    Finally finished applying the medicine, he let out a silent sigh of relief.


    But the next moment, he found himself pulled back.


    Jane''s pale skin was mere inches away, their noses almost touching.


    She wrapped her arms around Alexander''s neck, her beautiful eyes sparkling as she teased, ¡°Brother, your heart is racing. What are you thinking?¡±


    Alexander swallowed hard, clearly seeing his own reflection in her eyes, along with the flames of desire burning within them.


    ¡°Jane, don''t play with fire.¡±


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    It was both a warning to her and a reminder to himself.


    Yet Jane disagreed, pouting as she pressed a kiss on his lips, her sweet scent lingering. ¡°Seize the day! If we¡¯re already playing with fire, what¡¯s there to fear about getting burned?¡±


    Alexander narrowed his eyes, a dangerous glint flashing in his deep gaze. ¡°You¡¯re pushing it.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s get down to business.¡±


    Jane''s eyes widened in shock. Before she could react, the man above her raised his hand, removing his glasses, and surged forward with a fierce kiss.


    The intensity felt like it could consume her.


    Just when things were heating up, a sudden knock on the door echoed from outside.


    Jane instinctively panicked.


    She held his restless hands, her heart racing wildly, and blinked, ¡°Not now¡­ Aunt Wan is downstairs, and besides, my injury isn¡¯t fully healed yet.¡±


    There was still someone else down there¡ªLiam Summers.


    Without his glasses, Alexander exuded a raw, untamed energy.


    His hand ran through his hair as his voice came out low and husky, ¡°So you¡¯re scared now?¡±


    Even with such teasing gestures, his demeanor remained serious. Jane''s eyes widened in disbelief, the blush creeping down to her neck.


    Alexander smirked coldly, rising with a swift grace.


    ¡°Jane, don¡¯t try to play any games meant for adults with me; you won¡¯t keep up.¡±


    He put his glasses back on, returning to his composed, scholarly persona. If he had a book in hand, he could easily pass for a university professor.


    The hand that had just been all over her was now adjusting his cuffs with a refined elegance.


    ¡°You¡¯re still young, but I¡¯m not. I¡¯ll indulge you in other matters, but I don¡¯t have time for childish games. Learn to know your limits in the future.¡±


    ¡°Clean yourself up and come down for dinner.¡±


    Even after Alexander''s tall figure vanished from the room, Jane remained frozen, her heart still pounding like a drum.


    Damn.


    That guy, Alexander Westwood, was way too flirtatious!


    Jane raised a hand to her face, giving herself a couple of light slaps to cool down the heat, deep in thought about Alexander¡¯s warning. After a while, she couldn¡¯t help but chuckle softly.


    He made it sound easy, but where was her escape?


    Even if the Westwood family helped the Summers family through this crisis and Alexander stood by her side, how long could he protect her?


    What if he ended up marrying someone else in the future¡­


    With that thought, a wave of bitterness washed over Jane¡ªan emotion she had buried deep within since her teenage years, a distant fantasy she¡¯d never dared to voice.


    But he called it a childish game.


    So what?


    She, Jane Lang, was determined to pursue the man she liked, even if she had to risk it all!


    eeting between families, even

 Chapter 8: Mosquito Bites

    After Jane Lang headed downstairs, she was just in time for dinner. Coincidentally, Alexander Westwood''s seat across from her was empty again. Just as she thought about sitting down, she heard his calm voice say, "Sit over there."


    ¡°¡­¡­¡± Did he really need to be this guarded against her?


    Jane pouted and chose to sit across from Ding Yuan instead.


    Ding Yuan seemed to be lost in her thoughts but managed to force a smile at Jane, placing a piece of sweet and sour pork rib into her bowl. ¡°Xiao Ye¡­ I heard Aunt Chen say this is your favorite dish. You should try it!¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡± Aunt Chen chimed in while serving soup, ¡°Yuan Yuan, you don¡¯t know this, but Wei Yan once specifically asked me to learn this dish because Xiao Ye loves it.¡±


    Ding Yuan¡¯s breath hitched slightly, but she still maintained a forced smile.


    ¡°Wei Yan¡­ Really treats Xiao Ye well.¡±


    She couldn''t show her dislike for Jane directly, so she had to come up with ways to flatter her, hoping to get closer to Alexander.


    Jane flashed her a bright smile, her sparkling eyes seemingly piercing right through her, ¡°Yuan Yuan, you''re so nice to me!¡±


    Aunt Chen laughed and added, ¡°Yuan Yuan being nice to you is only natural. Who knows, maybe she¡¯ll end up being your sister-in-law someday!¡±


    The Xu and Ding families both seemed to have that in mind; it was only a matter of time.


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    Ding Yuan instantly blushed at the suggestion.


    ¡°It¡­ It¡¯s just to be expected.¡±


    Alexander had been quietly observing the scene, his expression unreadable, until he intervened just before Jane could speak again. ¡°Let¡¯s keep the chatter to a minimum during dinner.¡±


    His tone held a commanding authority, reminiscent of his days training soldiers.


    Jane instinctively straightened her back and fell silent.


    The dinner passed uneasily, and as it concluded, Alexander rolled up his sleeves to reveal his muscular arms. Just as he reached for a pair of chopsticks, Aunt Chen snatched them away. ¡°You go take care of your work. We can handle this.¡±


    Ding Yuan had never seen this side of him and found herself momentarily mesmerized before quickly realizing she needed to play it cool. ¡°Wei Yan, you should go rest.¡±


    In the future, if they got married, she would see the domestic side of Alexander¡ªthere was no need to rush.


    Jane licked her lips and noticed Alexander walking toward the sofa in the living room, so she obediently began to clean up.


    ¡°Hey, Xiao Ye, what happened to your chest?¡±


    Aunt Chen''s curious gaze landed on her. ¡°Did a mosquito bite you?¡±


    Ding Yuan turned to look as well; Jane was wearing a casual white shirt, and with just one button fastened, there were faint marks visible at her collarbone.


    Those were¡­ hickeys!


    Jane adjusted her collar and blinked innocently. ¡°Yeah, just a mosquito bite.¡±


    Aunt Chen didn¡¯t sense anything amiss and frowned. ¡°You really need to be careful. Get some medicine for that; the mosquitoes can be quite nasty this season, and their bites can take forever to heal.¡±


    Jane¡¯s smile quickly faded as she replied obediently, ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind, Aunt Chen.¡±


    Ding Yuan¡¯s face paled slightly. Once they retreated to the kitchen, she subconsciously glanced at the man seated in the living room. He hadn¡¯t lifted his head once since earlier¡ªthis must be unrelated to him.


    Good... that means Jane must already have a boyfriend.


    Ding Yuan sighed in relief, feeling much lighter.


    As she finished tidying up and prepared to leave, Aunt Chen commanded with authority, ¡°Your dad wants you to come back home for a visit. Tomorrow is the weekend, so take Xiao Ye with you.¡±


    As long as Xiao Ye was around, their father-son arguments would probably be mitigated.


    Alexander merely responded with an uninterested ¡°Hmm,¡± acknowledging the instruction.


    Jane clung to Aunt Chen¡¯s arm and pleaded, ¡°Aunt Chen, why don¡¯t you stay here with me tonight? It¡¯s been so long since I¡¯ve seen you; I really miss you!¡±


    Aunt Chen teased her by gently tapping her nose. ¡°If you missed me, you could have sought me out.¡±


    Ding Yuan seized the moment, chiming in, ¡°Xiao Ye, let¡¯s exchange WeChat IDs? We could hang out together sometime.¡±


    For some reason, Jane felt that Ding Yuan had suddenly become a lot friendlier.


    ¡°Sure!¡±


    They exchanged contact information, and soon after, Aunt Chen and Ding Yuan drove away.


    As the night settled into tranquility, Jane turned with a playful smile, emphasizing every word, ¡°The mosquitoes this season are¡­ so, big, and, venomous!¡±

 Chapter 9: The Marriage Proposal

    Alexander Westwood shot her an impassive glance, his large hand gripping the nape of her neck, dragging her along as if she were a small chick. They reached the doorway to his room, and he unceremoniously pushed her inside.


    ¡°Get some rest; we¡¯re heading back to the old house early tomorrow,¡± he ordered.


    Jane instinctively took a step forward, ¡°I¡ª¡±


    He cut her off, ¡°One more word, and I¡¯ll throw you out.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡­¡± Jane bit her lip, feeling both defiant and hesitant. It was as if he could read her mind, knowing exactly what she was planning.


    Alexander¡¯s cold gaze swept over her before he turned and entered the master bedroom, slamming the door shut the moment she followed.


    ¡°¡­¡± Jane huffed at the closed door, muttering under her breath, ¡°Who does he think he is?¡±


    Though she often found herself at odds with Alexander, she was used to her emotions flaring up and fading quickly, which didn¡¯t affect her sleep that night.


    The night quickly passed, and Jane was jolted awake early the next morning as Alexander dragged her out of bed and drove them back to the old house. It wasn''t until the car came to a sudden stop that she snapped awake.


    ¡°Alexander! Do you know you can scare someone to death like that?!¡±


    He raised an eyebrow, ¡°Jane, I¡¯ve already been indulgent by letting you drift off this long.¡±


    Jane felt like he was looking at her not like a person, but like a well-trained machine. Her bravado diminished significantly, and she murmured, ¡°Not everyone can be as obsessively disciplined as you.¡±


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    Alexander shot her a sidelong glance before stepping out of the car.


    Relieved, Jane hurried to catch up to him. Although she dared to be playful with him, she still felt a bit intimidated. After all, he had been more like a drill sergeant during their school days.


    As they entered the house, Xu Zhaosen was seated in the living room, watching the morning news. He looked up when he heard them, ¡°Oh, you¡¯re back.¡±


    Alexander merely acknowledged him with a curt ¡°Dad.¡±


    Jane obediently followed suit, ¡°Hello, Uncle Xu.¡±


    Xu Zhaosen¡¯s expression softened. ¡°Xiao Ye, you should come back more often. It¡¯s just me and your aunt at home; it would be nice to have you here for a bit.¡±


    He occasionally glanced at the man beside her, and Jane sensed the look was one of silent reproach.


    She nodded with a smile, ¡°Uncle Xu, I will.¡±


    If she ended up marrying Alexander, she could come home anytime.


    Just as Jane¡¯s smile lingered, she heard laughter coming from the stairs. Ding Yuan and Aunt Chen appeared, chatting animatedly.


    When Aunt Chen spotted them in the living room, her eyes brightened. ¡°You¡¯re back! I was just giving Yuan Yuan a tour of the upstairs rooms.¡±


    Alexander frowned slightly, ¡°What¡¯s so interesting about the rooms?¡±


    ¡°Yuan Yuan has never been upstairs before, so I thought it would be nice to show her around,¡± Aunt Chen replied cheerfully.


    Jane was still trying to process the implications of Aunt Chen¡¯s words when Xu Zhaosen turned off the television, and the suddenly quiet room was filled with his serious tone.


    ¡°The main reason I called you back today is to discuss your marriage with Yuan Yuan.¡±


    ¡ª


    In the living room, Ding Yuan and Aunt Chen sat together, while Jane and Alexander formed another couple across from Xu Zhaosen, who seemed to be presiding over a formal family meeting.


    His words stirred a wave of surprise among everyone present, and for a moment, nobody spoke.


    ¡°Hey, why wasn¡¯t I called to the meeting?¡±


    The voice belonged to Xu Zhi, the second son of the Xu family, who sauntered down the stairs, yawning. He plopped onto the sofa, appearing drowsy but still exuding a charismatic aura.


    ¡°Xiao Ye is here?¡± he noted, looking pleasantly surprised.


    Jane smiled brightly, ¡°Little Zhi!¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Xu Zhi nodded before turning serious, ¡°Let''s get started; I''m ready to hear the news.¡±


    Jane struggled to suppress a laugh, lowering her head as her cheeks flushed. Only Alexander could catch the hint of amusement in her expression.


    A flicker of humor crossed his face, quickly replaced by an expression of indifference.


    After the interruption, Ding Yuan became even more bashful. Since Xu Zhi didn¡¯t reach out to her, she felt too shy to speak, casting a pleading look toward Aunt Chen.


    Aunt Chen reassuringly patted her hand. ¡°You know how Little Zhi is; let¡¯s not mind him.¡±


    Xu Zhaosen took it all in, then turned to his younger son, scolding, ¡°Look at you! Is this how you should behave?!¡±


    ¡°Why are you looking at me?¡±


    Xu Zhi replied in confusion. ¡°Aren¡¯t you supposed to be talking about my brother¡¯s marriage?¡±


    Xu Zhaosen took a deep breath and, under Aunt Chen¡¯s persistent signaling, finally calmed down. Gritting his teeth, he said, ¡°Yes, we are discussing your brother¡¯s matter. Then it''ll be your turn!¡±


    Aunt Chen shot him an amused glance and interjected, ¡°So, Wei Yan, what are your thoughts on your marriage with Yuan Yuan?¡±

 Chapter 10: This Marriage Must Happen

    Alexander Westwood drummed his fingers on the couch, looking utterly unbothered.


    ¡°I¡¯m not really interested; I have no intention of getting married.¡±


    ¡°How can you say that?!¡± Xu Zhaosen was furious, slamming his hand on the table. ¡°Your marriage has been decided long ago; you can¡¯t just say you don¡¯t want to!¡±


    Aunt Chen chimed in calmly, ¡°That¡¯s right... you¡¯re both not getting any younger; it¡¯s time to consider settling down. Uncle Ding¡¯s family thinks that with the two companies working together, it¡¯s a good opportunity to announce the engagement.¡±


    Making the announcement under such circumstances would benefit both companies.


    Today¡¯s visit from Ding Yuan was intended to gauge Alexander''s feelings on the matter.


    She glanced at her son, who was silent, then turned to Ding Yuan. ¡°Yuan Yuan, what do you think?¡±


    Ding Yuan looked up, her face flushed. ¡°Well... I like Wei Yan; Auntie, you all know that. It¡¯s why I¡¯ve waited for him. As for the marriage, I... I¡¯ll listen to my dad.¡±


    Jane couldn¡¯t help but arch an eyebrow, her expression darkening.


    Such an evasive remark.


    Everyone knew she liked him, so they should be together, right?


    And listening to her dad meant... he wanted them to get married quickly.


    Xu Zhaosen seemed to calm a bit, snorting, ¡°What Uncle Ding says is right!¡±


    ¡°Besides, you two will get married sooner or later. Are you really planning to wait until your mother and I are too old to move before making your move?!¡±


    He understood that his son typically loathed being told what to do, but this matter was not open for discussion!


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    Xu Zhi attempted to lighten the mood, smirking, ¡°Dad, shouldn¡¯t you let my brother and future sister-in-law get to know each other a bit better? They¡¯re practically strangers at this point; everyone would think they¡¯ve been dating for a while!¡±


    This time, Aunt Chen lost patience. ¡°Little Zhi!¡±


    ¡°I got it, Mom.¡± He decided to shut his mouth.


    Xu Zhi lazily leaned back against the couch, now acting indifferent.


    With all eyes on Alexander, everyone seemed to be waiting for him to deliver a final verdict on the marriage.


    The man in question appeared uninterested. He crossed his long legs, the fabric of his trousers taut and well-fitted, propping his hand on the armrest, fingers tapping against his jaw. His dark eyes, hidden behind glasses, were inscrutable¡ªhe seemed lost in thought.


    Perhaps it was his natural commanding aura that made others hesitant to interrupt the silence.


    But silence was often the hardest experience to endure.


    Jane was the first to crack; her nimble fingers crept toward him from behind, teasingly slipping beneath the edge of his jacket, lightly touching and prodding.


    Not far away, Xu Zhi was initially prepared for an entertaining spectacle.


    However, he was taken aback by the unexpected scene he encountered.


    His older brother, known for his stoicism¡­ was doing nothing to stop it?!


    Xu Zhi stiffened, turning his gaze away in shock, his mind racing with thoughts: would his brother show leniency due to their blood relation now that he had uncovered such a secret?


    Xu Zhaosen and Aunt Chen remained blissfully unaware, exchanging glances as if sharing a silent understanding.


    ¡°Speak up!¡±


    ¡°Do you want me to speak?¡± Alexander finally lifted his gaze, a half-smile playing on his lips. ¡°I thought you were trying to find a bride for the Xu family. Does this matter still require my opinion?¡±


    ¡°You¡­!¡± Xu Zhaosen was about ready to explode from frustration!


    Years ago, Alexander had insisted on enlisting in the military, causing them years of worry! Now that he was back, he wouldn¡¯t even listen to them! What had they done to deserve such rebellious sons?


    Ding Yuan looked at Alexander with big, teary eyes, a picture of helplessness, akin to an abandoned damsel. Aunt Chen hurriedly tried to comfort her.


    Xu Zhaosen took a deep breath, ¡°Alexander, I¡¯m telling you, you must marry her! You can¡¯t let Yuan Yuan down!¡±


    ¡°Oh, really?¡±


    Alexander¡¯s smile turned enigmatic, his expression suddenly chilling. ¡°I don¡¯t remember wronging anyone.¡±


    His gaze turned piercing, his voice crisp and clear like winter ice. ¡°If you¡¯re so eager for me to marry her, then come up with a legitimate reason for it. Otherwise, don¡¯t even think about it.¡±


    He knew his father and the Ding family had made some sort of deal.


    If he couldn¡¯t find out the details, it was undoubtedly something they¡¯d prefer to keep hidden.


    Everyone present was taken aback by the normally mild-mannered Alexander revealing such a side of himself¡ªperhaps this was his true self, with suppressed anger only surfacing in front of family.


    After a moment of stunned silence, Xu Zhaosen¡¯s face turned a tumult of emotions as he exclaimed, ¡°You¡¯ve really gone too far this time!¡±


    Alexander had no intention of playing this game any longer. He stood up, preparing to leave.


    ¡°Wei Yan!¡±


    Ding Yuan rushed over, gripping his hand. Her tear-streaked face was heart-wrenching. ¡°I... I thought you at least cared about me¡­¡±

 Chapter 11: The One I Like

    Didn¡¯t they used to have a good relationship? They spent their school days together, side by side¡ªwasn¡¯t it impossible for him not to like her if there were no other women in his world aside from herself?!


    Alexander glanced at the hand Ding Yuan had gripped, making no move to pull away.


    ¡°Ding Yuan, don¡¯t squander the little camaraderie we have left.¡±


    Ding Yuan paused, unconsciously tightening her grip before finally letting go.


    Aunt Chen felt anxious; the scene unfolding before her was utter chaos, but what could she do with her son, who was resolute in his stance?


    As Alexander turned to leave, he suddenly stopped after a few steps. ¡°Jane.¡±


    ¡°...I¡¯m here.¡±


    She had thought he might forget about her!


    Jane shot an apologetic glance toward Xu Zhaosen and Aunt Chen, then jogged to catch up.


    It wasn¡¯t until the sound of an engine revving echoed through the yard that Xu Zhi withdrew his head from peering outside, struck by the array of forbidden knowledge he had just acquired.


    Aunt Chen noticed her dazed younger son and sighed, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you try to talk some sense into your brother?¡±


    Xu Zhi rubbed the back of his neck.


    ¡°Mom, did you never consider that if my brother doesn¡¯t want to get married, it might be because he likes someone?¡±


    The couple, already irritated, fell silent.


    Their icy son, having feelings for someone?


    Ding Yuan, still with tears on her face, found herself unexpectedly thinking of Jane¡¯s delicate features but quickly shook her head in denial.


    A man like him, standing at the top¡ªhow could he possibly be interested in someone like Jane?


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    After leaving the old house, Alexander took Jane out for a meal before driving her back home.


    ¡°Take it easy today; prepare yourself for tomorrow at the office,¡± he instructed.


    Jane stared at him intently, nodding in compliance.


    When the car stopped at the entrance to South Garden, Alexander turned and said, ¡°Get out. I have some matters to attend to at the office, and I don¡¯t know when I¡¯ll be back tonight. Handle your own meals.¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡±


    He frowned slightly. ¡°Okay? You should at least show some determination.¡±


    Out of nowhere, Jane produced a tissue, dramatically wiping his hand, where Ding Yuan had previously held on, then cupped his face and kissed him lightly.


    Her eyes sparkled with excitement. ¡°I¡¯m moving now, but Mr. Xu, who is so disciplined, should probably give me a reward.¡±


    Alexander¡¯s dark eyes momentarily clouded, resembling a deep midnight sky.


    As Jane entered the house, she watched as the black car that had lingered for quite some time finally sped away.


    She felt elated, yet she didn¡¯t see Alexander again that evening. Her texts went unanswered, but that hardly mattered; she had sent them to uplift her spirits.


    That night, Jane fell asleep early and even woke before Alexander the next morning. After confirming that he had returned home, she prepared a heart-shaped breakfast.


    As Alexander climbed the stairs, he heard her singing softly, prompting his expression to shift slightly.


    ¡°Good morning, Wei Yan Ge,¡± Jane greeted brightly.


    She turned around with a charming smile that gleamed under the morning light, making her features appear even more delicate. ¡°I¡¯ve carefully prepared breakfast for you, along with freshly brewed hand-ground coffee. I hope you like it.¡±


    Please don¡¯t be unappreciative.


    Unfazed, Alexander approached the dining table and scrutinized the contents.


    ¡°Carefully prepared?¡± He glanced at the dubious-looking fried egg and the instant coffee with froth on top and said, ¡°Nice effort, but please don¡¯t do this again.¡±


    Despite his words, he sat down and leisurely began to eat.


    Jane had already nibbled on some toast and wasn¡¯t particularly hungry anymore.


    After finishing his meal, Alexander tidied up the dishes and, without looking back, said, ¡°Go change; I¡¯ll take you with me today. You can go on your own from tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°How will I get there by myself?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have a driver¡¯s license?¡±


    ¡°Well, I do have one.¡±


    That was the license he had pushed her to get a while ago.


    Alexander fell silent, and Jane stuck her tongue out at his back before hurrying upstairs to change.


    As he drove, she hopped into the passenger seat.


    The rare moment of tranquility didn¡¯t last long. The fidgeting girl finally leaned closer, resting her chin on her hand. ¡°Mr. Xu, when will you have time to help with the matters at Xia¡¯s firm?¡±


    Whether it meant investing or cooperating, a solution was needed.


    Alexander caught sight of her eager expression from the corner of his eye; the various titles that tumbled from her lips carried different flavors.


    He swallowed hard, ¡°Sit tight.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°I can indeed help revive Xia¡¯s firm, but a company can¡¯t rely on others all the time.¡± After all, he had already gone out of his way for them multiple times.


    Jane understood his implications but countered, ¡°This time, they¡¯re relying on me.¡±


    If Alexander didn¡¯t assist, she would have to marry into their family.


    But wouldn¡¯t such a man¡ªwho deemed her too childish¡ªwant to marry her off to someone else? Wasn¡¯t he just being a good Samaritan by bringing her to the company to learn how to help others train a spouse?


    Sensing her swirling thoughts, Alexander quickly saw through her imagination with just a glance.


    ¡°If they are deserving, I will help them.¡±


    Jane raised her head, her fiery gaze fixed on him, ¡°Am I deserving?¡±

 Chapter 12: First Day at Work

    The car had already reached the business district, and the sunlight reflected sharply between the tall buildings, shining through the windshield and causing a slight glare.


    Alexander¡¯s fingers tapped rhythmically on the steering wheel.


    After a while, his rich voice echoed in the cabin, breaking the silence.


    ¡°That depends on whether you can be good enough.¡±


    Jane suddenly laughed and, after he pressed the brake, wrapped her arms around his neck, planting a quick kiss on his cheek. ¡°I¡¯ll definitely be very good!¡±


    This time, Alexander didn¡¯t speak again as she released him, her face shining with an unrestrained joy, lively and bright, like a little fox that had just achieved its goal.


    He cast a serious glance at her. ¡°Get out.¡±


    Jane looked at the nearby building, puzzled. ¡°Aren¡¯t we there yet?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll have Zheng Nan arrange your work for you. Since you¡¯re here to learn, no one can know your identity, nor can you enjoy any special treatment.¡±


    ¡°Alright!¡± She waved her hand nonchalantly.


    As soon as Jane got out of the car, Alexander sped off, leaving her behind. After walking for about ten minutes, she arrived at the company¡¯s entrance, where Zheng Nan was already waiting.


    ¡°Good morning, Special Assistant.¡±


    Zheng Nan nodded and swiped the access card.


    ¡°I''ll take you to the HR department to complete your onboarding. If you need anything, feel free to find me,¡± he said.


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    Jane nodded. ¡°Okay.¡±


    Upon reaching the HR department, she met Manager Liu, who wore black-rimmed glasses. His scrutinizing gaze swept over her several times and flickered thoughtfully at Zheng Nan beside her.


    ¡°Manager Liu, I¡¯m handing her over to you; please arrange everything,¡± Zheng Nan said.


    Manager Liu nodded repeatedly, a plan forming in his mind.


    Jane was assigned to the Marketing Department, where she was introduced to the director, Li Wenwen.


    ¡°Have you all heard? The new girl, Jane, has an ¡®extraordinary¡¯ relationship with Special Assistant Zheng... No wonder she was brought in by the director herself.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s young, and I guess it¡¯s just her looks!¡±


    ¡°Ugh, these days, nothing else matters. As long as you¡¯re young and beautiful, and can handle things in bed, that¡¯s enough.¡±


    ¡°......¡±


    All sorts of comments buzzed in her ears as Jane faced away from the crowd, calmly preparing a cup of coffee, her demeanor reflecting a hint of Alexander¡¯s influence.


    She set down the spoon and turned around, her expression serious.


    ¡°I believe your statements aren¡¯t completely accurate.¡±


    ¡°What¡­?¡± The group was momentarily taken aback. They looked at the unfamiliar face in front of them, her round cheeks still slightly babyish, but her exquisite features were hard to ignore.


    Jane seemed to ponder their previous remarks. ¡°Tsk¡­ Having just a pretty face isn¡¯t enough. Being good in bed is too mundane; the most important thing is to have a brain.¡±


    ¡°You need to develop in all areas.¡±


    With a firm nod, she concluded, ¡°You all still have a lot of improvements to make; keep at it!¡±


    She confidently walked out of the pantry, and after a while, she heard gasps from inside. ¡°Who is that woman?!¡±


    ¡°How can she speak like that? She really has no shame...¡±


    Just then, a timid voice said, ¡°I think¡­ it¡¯s Jane.¡±


    ¡°......¡±


    Feeling quite satisfied, Jane returned to the office and placed a coffee on the table. ¡°Director, here¡¯s your coffee.¡±


    Li Wenwen didn¡¯t even glance at it. Instead, she pointed at a folder on the desk. ¡°Take that document, make two copies, and bring them to Mr. Xu for his signature before returning.¡±


    Jane ran errands all day, feeling exhausted, but upon hearing she could see Alexander, her eyes instantly brightened. ¡°Okay, Director!¡±


    Li Wenwen heard her cheerful footsteps and let out a cold laugh. A twenty-year-old college student, so easily bought¡ªhow cheap.


    After making the copies, Jane joyfully hopped onto the elevator, her heart racing at the thought of seeing Alexander. However, as she arrived at the CEO¡¯s office, she heard a frosty voice from inside: ¡°Get lost!¡±


    Jane froze, wondering if the person inside had some sort of sixth sense to predict her presence.


    But she quickly realized that her assumption hadn¡¯t been unfounded.


    The office door swung open, and a manager hurried out, face covered in dust, looking as if he had just been scolded. Behind him, Alexander¡¯s merciless voice cut through the air, ¡°If you can¡¯t even handle this work, just resign and get lost!¡±


    Two bystanders nearby exchanged gossip. ¡°Isn¡¯t this Manager Zhang¡¯s fourth time being scolded?¡±


    ¡°Right? But it¡¯s also due to him crossing Mr. Xu¡¯s red line. Mr. Xu can¡¯t stand nepotism or anyone trying to take shortcuts at work. He even claimed the other party was a relative right after he arrived...¡±


    ¡°......¡±


    With such a scene unfolding, did she really need to go inside?

 Chapter 13: Who Taught You This?

    Jane lingered at the office door for two minutes before finally mustering the courage to cover half her face with a folder and stepping inside. She looked at the man behind the desk, who had his fingers pressed against his forehead, and asked softly, ¡°Mr. Xu¡­ do you have time to go over some work now?¡±


    Alexander looked up, surprised. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    Seeing his mood had improved slightly, Jane¡¯s eyes brightened. ¡°I have two documents that need your signature.¡±


    ¡°Bring them over.¡± He beckoned her with a flick of his hand, and she walked over obediently.


    ¡°Did you organize these?¡± Another crease appeared on his brow, and his voice turned cold. ¡°Let¡¯s not even mention the logical issues; you can¡¯t even get the basic typos right? All that time in business school was wasted?¡±


    His questions began piling on, growing more severe with each word. Finally, in frustration, he slammed the folder down on the desk. ¡°Take them back and redo everything!¡±


    Jane knew Alexander wasn''t a pushover; beneath his seemingly gentle exterior lurked a fiercer side, one that could be ruthless¡ªafter all, he was a man who could handle real pressure.


    But he had always been indulgent towards her; she had never seen this commanding and decisive aspect of him before.


    She felt a tremor run through her, her eyes moistening.


    Biting her lip, she glanced at the documents on the desk.


    No wonder¡­ No wonder she sensed something was off with Li Wenwen earlier. It was clear now that Li had set her up, pushing a newcomer to deliver documents to the CEO as a deliberate ploy.


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    Just when Alexander was reconsidering his tone, thinking he might have been a bit harsh, he saw the small girl fiercely toss the folder onto the table.


    ¡°I could write something like this with my eyes closed!¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you do this?¡±


    ¡°Of course not!¡± Jane snapped back angrily but held back from accusing him in front of the CEO. Yet being framed like this was not her style. ¡°What do I know? It¡¯s my first day, and you expect me to help craft a marketing plan? I haven¡¯t even figured out how Xu Corporation operates yet! Didn¡¯t you think of that, Mr. Xu?¡±


    The more she spoke, the angrier she became, feeling deeply wronged that the older man would make such assumptions without any thought!


    Alexander¡¯s gaze suddenly turned deep and profound; he closed his eyes and took a calming breath.


    He didn¡¯t doubt her capability to create a perfect marketing proposal in a short time. The roughness and negligence exhibited in the documents were unmistakably characteristic of her work style.


    When faced with things she disliked, Jane could be extremely dismissive.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t think; I apologize, Jane.¡±


    His calm voice echoed in the office, clarifying his stance: he recognized his mistake and was willing to correct it.


    ¡°Now, go down and bring the person who prepared this document up here, and return to your own workstation.¡±


    Well, there goes the cuteness.


    Jane was unhappy about being dismissed and didn¡¯t want to run errands again. She lifted the half-empty cup of water on the desk, took a large gulp, and wiped the excess water off her lips.


    In just two steps, she was back at his side.


    Boldly, she straddled his lap and wrapped her arms around his neck.


    ¡°Brother Wenyan¡­ I¡¯m so tired. Can¡¯t I just take a break with you? I can finish that proposal in half an hour without needing to call anyone else and waste time getting scolded.¡±


    Most importantly, if she called someone up, the Marketing Department would never accept her again.


    The refreshing fragrance enveloped him, and Alexander¡¯s eyes darkened as he brushed her hands off. ¡°Get down.¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    Jane tightened her hold.


    Feeling his reaction, she smirked teasingly. ¡°You say no, but your body seems to be quite honest¡­ Want to test it out here?¡±


    Alexander narrowed his eyes. ¡°Who taught you all this?¡±


    Jane blinked innocently. ¡°Do you want my resources too?¡±


    Those were meant for her own advantage, after all, involving some superficial relationships.


    ¡°¡­¡± Alexander could barely contain himself.


    ¡°Cut off all those unsavory connections!¡±


    Jane mumbled in agreement but then leaned in to kiss him, messy yet utterly enchanting, trailing down his nose and along his jawline until she reached his throat.


    She flicked her tongue teasingly.


    The muscles in his throat rolled, chest tightening with restrained desire.


    Alexander held her arm with such strength it felt like he could crush her bones, his eyes swirling with longing, overpowering reason.


    Although Jane was dressed relatively conservatively today, the neckline of her white chiffon top was quite low; with her movements, the view it offered began to spark his desire.


    His dark gaze slowly traveled down her face.


    Every inch was scorching.


    Jane gave it her all, yet when she sensed that he wasn¡¯t showing any intent to push things further, she felt a tinge of disappointment, breathing heavily, ¡°You really don¡¯t want me? Then¡­ Ah!¡±

 Chapter 14: What if Someone Comes In?

    Suddenly, the world spun around her as she found herself pushed onto the office chair.


    ¡°Think again.¡±


    Jane froze, momentarily caught off guard. Just as she opened her mouth to clarify, the man stole all her breath, leaving her unable to move.


    His hands found their way to her thighs, lifting them gently until her legs wrapped around his waist.


    She tilted her head to meet his kiss, tightening her embrace.


    ¡°Mr. Xu¡­ maybe we shouldn¡¯t¡­¡±


    What she initially intended as playful flirtation had escalated quickly. This was still the office¡ªa place where people could come in at any moment. She felt a surge of anxiety and whimpered softly, ¡°What if someone comes in?¡±


    Alexander kissed her fervently, seemingly unbothered by her concern. He pressed a button somewhere, and the sound of their mingled breaths filled the room. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, no one will come in.¡±


    His reassurance provided some comfort. Jane began to relax, allowing herself to surrender to the moment.


    Somewhere in the depths of her mind, she acknowledged a thrill at the secretiveness of their encounter in the office.


    Outside the office, Zheng Nan was approaching, holding a stack of documents. Just as he reached the door, he heard faint moans from inside.


    His face flushed with embarrassment, and he stepped back, walking toward a nearby workspace. ¡°Did anyone just come upstairs to see Mr. Xu?¡± he asked a passing secretary.


    She thought for a moment. ¡°I think a newcomer from the Marketing Department went in.¡±


    Zheng Nan¡¯s suspicions were confirmed, and he cleared his throat before heading back to the office door, this time standing a good distance away, almost like a sentry.


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    The passionate interlude in the break room didn¡¯t cease until near the end of the workday. Alexander retrieved his pants, his voice still hoarse and cool as he inquired, ¡°Jane, what exactly do you expect to gain from this?¡±


    Oh, so he was planning to hold her accountable afterwards.


    Leaning back against the headboard, Jane¡¯s cheeks still slightly flushed, she queried lazily, ¡°You.¡± Her tone was half-serious, half-joking. ¡°Marry me. Didn¡¯t I say I wanted to be with you?¡±


    Alexander paused, his dark eyes searching hers for a sign of sincerity.


    ¡°Shi Zhen is coming back soon.¡±


    His abrupt statement caught Jane off guard. She leaped up with excitement. ¡°Is my brother really coming back? When?!¡±


    Alex observed her for a moment before picking up his suit jacket.


    ¡°Soon. Didn¡¯t he tell you anything?¡±


    Jane pouted in frustration, ¡°He doesn¡¯t call much and doesn¡¯t share anything with me.¡±


    Shi Zhen was in a special unit and rarely reached out, even leaving the family in the dark about his whereabouts.


    Alexander noticed her disappointment; his expression turned increasingly grim.


    He picked up some clothes off the floor and tossed them on the bed. ¡°Put these on.¡±


    Jane stretched her arms toward him, pouting playfully. ¡°I¡¯m so tired¡­ can¡¯t you help me put them on?¡±


    Alexander frowned, about to move but was interrupted by the sudden ringing of his phone. Changing his tune, he said, ¡°Put them on yourself.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡± So cold, so unfeeling!


    Moments later, after answering the call, Alexander turned and said, ¡°I have something to deal with. Zheng Nan will take you home.¡± Without waiting for a response, he walked out of the break room, leaving Jane speechless.


    With a wave of frustration, she thumped her fist onto the bed and muttered under her breath as she began dressing herself.


    She picked up the folder from the desk, and just then, her phone pinged with a message from her best friend, Anse: ¡°So, did you capture the aloof flower?¡±


    Jane quickly typed back: ¡°Is anyone beyond my grasp?¡±


    Anse replied: ¡°Oh! The BOSS is coming to report in person tonight!¡±


    Jane could practically picture Anse¡¯s smirk as she read the message, and she couldn¡¯t help but grin herself as she opened the office door, stepping out.


    Zheng Nan was still waiting outside, looking somewhat awkward as he rubbed his nose. ¡°Miss Jiang, Mr. Xu asked me to take you home.¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­ I understand.¡±


    Jane cautiously glanced around, relieved to see no one else around before smiling gratefully. ¡°Thanks, Zheng Da Ge!¡±


    Zheng Nan averted his gaze. ¡°You¡¯re welcome.¡±


    They walked in silence for a bit, and she began responding to Anse¡¯s messages.


    She had expected a dramatic showdown after heading downstairs, but to her surprise, Director Li Wenwen had already left for the day, leaving her carefree. They could deal with tomorrow¡¯s matters when the time came.


    She told Zheng Nan to take her home, but really, she only wanted to change clothes.


    She had made plans with Anse to meet up at BOSS bar.


    ¡°Over here!¡±


    Upon entering the lobby, Jane spotted Anse waving enthusiastically, beckoning her over.


    Jane quickened her pace and swept her gaze across the bar, her attention faltering as it landed on a VIP table. The corners of her mouth lifted in a smile.

 Chapter 15: What鈥檚 Wrong With Touching?

    Anse, with her sleek bob and layered chokers, exuded confidence in her glittering black slip dress that showcased her long, shapely legs clad in knee-high boots. Her expertly applied makeup made her look almost like an AI creation.


    Jane slid into the seat next to her and raised her hand to order a drink¡ªparticularly a Flaming Rose.


    ¡°You¡¯re starting off with something so strong?¡± Anse teased.


    ¡°Want to join me?¡±


    The strobe lights played across Jane''s face, accentuating her bright features. Her fox-like eyes darted around the bar before she smirked. ¡°Drinking the strongest¡­.¡±


    ¡°Can you complete a thought?¡±


    Jane leaned in closer. ¡°I meant to say, I¡¯ll be looking for the wildest guys too.¡±


    She hesitated to say the latter part aloud; it felt too reckless for her image.


    Anse¡¯s eyes sparkled with curiosity. ¡°So, tell me, how are things going with that Xu family tyrant?¡±


    Jane bit her lip, doing a mental recap. ¡°We¡­ slept together, but he won¡¯t marry me.¡±


    ¡°I see. He¡¯s into your body but not you as a person,¡± Anse observed, chuckling as she scrutinized Jane. ¡°But honestly, it¡¯s hard to say who¡¯s benefitting more from this arrangement.¡±


    Jane had a reputation for being an alluring beauty, effortlessly attracting attention just by standing still. Meanwhile, Alexander was the dreamboat for countless socialites, outshining many celebrities with his looks and physique.


    Rumor had it that just one night with him would be worth a lifetime, making it seem like Jane was coming out ahead even without a marriage proposal.


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    Her slender fingers traced the rim of her glass, the diamonds on her ring catching glimmers of light. ¡°It¡¯s true; staying in this kind of relationship isn¡¯t so bad.¡±


    No commitments. She could leave at any time.


    Yet, it seemed she craved something deeper.


    Anse teased, ¡°Looks like Xu¡¯s skills are impressive enough to keep you as his¡­ devoted follower.¡±


    ¡°Follower?¡± Jane¡¯s mind wandered to the man¡¯s presence in bed, leaving her throat dry.


    She took a sip of her drink and chuckled, ¡°My skills aren¡¯t half bad either.¡±


    ¡°Wow¡­ Sounds like I¡¯ve helped you make some connections, huh? Wishing you the best in your flings!¡±


    ¡°Are you blessing me or cursing me?¡±


    Anse pretended to cough, feigning a sigh of dismay. ¡°Honestly, I thought he was being so nice to you because he liked you.¡±


    She had been surprised that someone like Alexander would show interest in someone so much younger.


    At the mention of ¡°liking,¡± Jane paused slightly.


    Like?


    Perhaps if they kept sleeping together, he would grow to like her.


    But he always claimed they belonged to different worlds. Now questioning feelings seemed pointless. It was better to think of ways to make him addicted enough to bridge that gap.


    Her gaze drifted to a man leaving a nearby booth, and Jane downed the remaining drink in her glass. ¡°I need to step away for a moment.¡±


    The bar was bustling, filled with all sorts of people. Yet BOSS was a private haven for the wealthy, ensuring that every patron was either rich or influential.


    Jane¡¯s presence turned heads as she made her way to the restroom, her confidence unwavering.


    In the corridor, the noises faded slightly, leaving only the rhythmic beats of the music to ignite her excitement.


    She paused by the restroom door for a moment.


    ¡°One, two, three¡­¡±


    She tapped her fingers to a melody, counting to ten before entering.


    Inside, a man stood at the sink, his back turned to her. The long fingers created a captivating allure that could quicken anyone¡¯s heartbeat.


    Hearing the door lock click behind her, Alexander momentarily stilled at the sink.


    In the next instant, Jane¡¯s arms, almost serpentine, slid around his back, drawing forward. ¡°Brother, I was just thinking about you! It seems we¡¯re in sync.¡±


    ¡°Jane!¡± he gasped.


    ¡°Call me¡­ Ah!¡±


    Suddenly yanked forward, Jane was taken by surprise. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    His expression darkened as he tightly gripped her wrist. ¡°Do you realize where you are? This is the men¡¯s restroom!¡±


    What if someone else walked in?


    ¡°Of course I know.¡±


    Jane feigned innocence, and she slipped a hand under his shirt. ¡°But I know you¡¯re the only one here, and besides, I locked the door.¡±


    That unexpected touch sent shivers through Alexander, his body instinctively tensing.


    ¡°Jane¡­¡± he grit out, hands straining against her delicate wrist, "Take your hand out!"


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with touching? I¡¯m just feeling your abs.¡±


    Jane continued, undeterred and slightly reckless.


    Ignoring the heat in his gaze that threatened to burn her, she focused on his hand gripping hers, a blush creeping up his fingertips. ¡°Oh no, you made me wet¡­¡±