[Friday Morning - 8:00 AM - Jianghai Bay Villa]
Chen Wei woke to find Xiao Yue already awake, watching him with soft eyes. The morning sunlight streaming through the windows cast a golden glow across her face.
"Good morning," she whispered, touching his cheek gently. "Did you sleep well?"
"Better question—did you?" Chen Wei asked, searching her face for signs of trauma from last night's attack.
"Surprisingly, yes," Xiao Yue admitted. "I had nightmares at first, but then I remembered you were holding me, and I felt safe again." She smiled. "You're my safe place, Chen Wei."
[Xiao Yue Recovery: Positive]
[Relationship Strength: Reinforced by shared adversity]
Chen Wei pulled her closer and kissed her forehead. "No classes today, right? Stay home with me. Rest."
"I want to go to campus," Xiao Yue said, surprising him. "I won't let fear control my life. Plus, Zhang Mei will be with me, and everyone needs to see that the Zhang family failed. That I'm okay."
Chen Wei felt pride swell in his chest. His girlfriend was braver than he'd given her credit for.
"Alright. But Zhang Mei doesn't leave your side for even a second. Promise me."
"Promise," Xiao Yue agreed, then kissed him deeply. "Now, make me breakfast? I'm starving."
They went downstairs to find Wang Lei already in the kitchen, scrolling through his phone with wide eyes.
"Bro! Have you seen the news?!" Wang Lei shoved his phone at Chen Wei.
The screen showed multiple news articles:
"Prominent Businessman Zhang Wei Arrested for Corruption - ¥50 Million Tax Evasion Scheme Exposed"
"Zhang Corporation Stock Plummets 70% Following Criminal Charges"
"Sources Say Young Entrepreneur Chen Wei Instrumental in Exposing Zhang Family Crimes"
There were photos—Zhang Wei being led away in handcuffs, Zhang Hao hiding his face from cameras, their mansion being searched by police.
"They're saying you brought down one of the city's most powerful families," Wang Lei said, his voice awed. "Bro, you're famous now. Like, actually famous."
Chen Wei scrolled through more articles, his Business Genius skill analyzing the implications. The Zhang family's business empire was collapsing—their construction company, real estate holdings, everything being investigated or frozen.
[System Update: Zhang Family Status]
[Zhang Wei: Arrested, awaiting trial, likely 10-15 years prison]
[Zhang Hao: Under investigation as potential accomplice, reputation destroyed]
[Zhang Corporation: Bankrupt within weeks]
[Zhang Family Assets: Being seized by authorities]
[Mission: Protect Your Loved Ones - COMPLETE]
[Your Reputation: "Untouchable" - People fear and respect you equally]
His phone started ringing almost immediately—calls and messages flooding in.
Sun Wei: "Chen Wei, excellent work with the Zhang situation. You've shown you can protect yourself and eliminate threats decisively. The business community has taken notice. Call me when you're free."
Lin Yue: "Good morning. Zhang Wei's lawyer called me three times last night trying to negotiate. I told him there's nothing to negotiate. How's Xiao Yue? -LY"
Tang Xin: "Chen Wei! I just heard what happened to Xiao Yue! Is she okay?! I'm so sorry I didn't reach out last night—I didn't hear until this morning. Please let me know if there's anything I can do!"
Director Wang Ming: "Mr. Chen, I saw the news. You've made quite an impression on Jianghai's business world. This kind of publicity will actually help our film. People love supporting a underdog-turned-hero story. Call me when you can."
Even more surprising was a message from an unknown number:
Unknown: "Mr. Chen Wei, this is Bai Yue, CEO of Tianlong Group. I'm impressed by how you handled the Zhang family situation. I'd like to meet you to discuss potential business partnerships. Would you be available for lunch today? I'll send a car. -BY"
Chen Wei's Business Genius skill immediately flagged the name. Tianlong Group was one of the three most powerful corporations in Jianghai—real estate, technology, entertainment, international trade. Bai Yue was a legend in business circles, though notoriously private.
[System Alert: Major Opportunity Detected!]
[Bai Yue - CEO of Tianlong Group]
[Age: 28, Female, Net Worth: ¥15+ Billion]
[Known as: "Ice Empress" - Brilliant, ruthless, beautiful, never seen with romantic partners]
[Warning: Extremely dangerous personality. Approach with caution]
[Potential: Massive business opportunities OR significant complications]
Chen Wei showed the message to Xiao Yue. "What do you think?"
Xiao Yue read it carefully. "She's really famous, isn't she? I've heard of Tianlong Group. They're huge." She looked up at him. "You should go. This could be amazing for your company."
"You're okay with me meeting another powerful woman?" Chen Wei asked, remembering her earlier insecurity about Lin Yue.
Xiao Yue smiled, more confident now. "After last night, after you destroyed an entire family to protect me, after choosing me over Lin Yue? Yes, I'm okay with it. Because I know you love me. And I trust you completely."
[Xiao Yue Growth: Increased confidence and security in relationship]
[Trust Level: Absolute]
Chen Wei kissed her gratefully. "I love you. And I'll tell you everything about the meeting afterward."
"I know you will," Xiao Yue said. "Now, about that breakfast?"
[11:30 AM - Campus of Jianghai University]
Xiao Yue arrived on campus with Zhang Mei shadowing her discreetly. The moment she stepped out of Chen Wei's Mercedes, she became the center of attention.
Students stared, whispered, pointed. Word had spread about last night's attack and the Zhang family's dramatic fall.
"Is that Xiao Yue?"
"The girl the Zhang family tried to hurt?"
"Chen Wei destroyed them completely for her!"
"That's like... the most romantic thing I've ever heard."
Xiao Yue held her head high, refusing to show fear or weakness. Her friends rushed over immediately.
"Xiao Yue! Oh my god, are you okay?" Li Mei hugged her tightly.
"I'm fine," Xiao Yue assured them. "Thanks to my bodyguard. And thanks to Chen Wei."
"Chen Wei is trending on social media," Wang Ting said, showing her phone. "People are calling him 'The Protector' and 'Young Master Chen.' There are literally fan accounts being created!"
Xiao Yue couldn't help but smile at the absurdity. Her boyfriend had become an internet sensation overnight.
As she walked to class, more students approached—some offering support, others clearly angling for connections to Chen Wei, a few brave guys even asking if she was really with him or if there was a chance...
Zhang Mei's intimidating presence shut down that last group quickly.
But the attention, while overwhelming, wasn't entirely negative. Xiao Yue realized people were looking at her with respect, not pity. She was the woman who'd survived an attack and whose boyfriend had demolished an entire criminal empire in retaliation.
It was empowering, in a strange way.
[12:00 PM - Tianlong Group Headquarters, Top Floor]
A luxury car had picked up Chen Wei exactly at 11:30 AM, as promised. The driver was professional and silent, taking him to the tallest building in Jianghai's financial district—a gleaming tower of steel and glass that dominated the skyline.
Chen Wei was escorted to a private elevator that required a special key card. It took him directly to the top floor—the penthouse level reserved for the CEO.
The elevator doors opened to reveal a stunning office space. Floor-to-ceiling windows on all sides offered 360-degree views of the city. The décor was modern, elegant, expensive—everything in shades of white, silver, and ice blue.
And standing by the windows, backlit by the noon sun, was Bai Yue.
Chen Wei's breath caught.
She was breathtaking. Tall—probably 5'9" without heels—with a figure that was both elegant and powerful. Long black hair fell straight down her back like a waterfall of silk. She wore a tailored white suit that fit perfectly, emphasizing her curves while maintaining absolute professionalism. Her face was stunning but cold—sharp cheekbones, full lips, and eyes that seemed to see everything.
[Bai Yue Detected]
[Beauty Rating: 96/100]
[Danger Level: EXTREME]
[Personality: Highly intelligent, strategically brilliant, emotionally controlled, potentially manipulative]
[Favorability: 0/100 (Completely Neutral - Evaluating you)]
[Warning: This woman is more dangerous than anyone you've met. Every word matters]
"Mr. Chen Wei," Bai Yue said, her voice like cool water—smooth, controlled, refined. "Thank you for coming on such short notice."
"Miss Bai," Chen Wei replied, activating his Executive Presence and Intimidating Aura subtly. He wouldn't let her dominance overwhelm him. "Your invitation was intriguing."
Bai Yue's lips curved into the slightest smile—she'd noticed his confidence and approved.
"Please, sit," she gestured to a sitting area with modern furniture that probably cost more than most people's cars.
As they sat, a assistant appeared with tea—premium, perfectly prepared—then vanished silently.
"I've been watching you, Chen Wei," Bai Yue said directly, no preamble. "Your acquisition of Starlight Entertainment, your investment in that indie film, your strategic destruction of the Zhang family. Impressive for someone so young."
"I do what's necessary to protect my interests," Chen Wei replied calmly.
"And your girlfriend," Bai Yue added, her eyes glinting. "The Zhang family made the mistake of threatening someone you love. You eliminated them with ruthless efficiency. That shows both loyalty and capability."
[Bai Yue is testing you - measuring your character and abilities]
"Loyalty is important to me," Chen Wei said. "Without it, all the money and power in the world means nothing."
"Interesting perspective," Bai Yue said, studying him intently. "Most young men with sudden wealth become arrogant, wasteful, entitled. You've remained grounded while building something real. Why?"
Chen Wei considered his answer carefully. This woman was reading him like a book—he needed to be honest but strategic.
"Because I remember what it was like to have nothing," Chen Wei said quietly. "Two weeks ago, I was broke, dumped, and powerless. That kind of experience stays with you. It reminds you that fortune can change in an instant, so you'd better build something that lasts."
[Perfect Answer]
[Bai Yue Favorability: 0/100 → 25/100]
[Status: Evaluating → Mildly Impressed]
Bai Yue's cold expression thawed slightly. "I like you, Chen Wei. You're authentic. Rare in my world, where everyone wears masks." She leaned forward slightly. "So let me be direct. I want to partner with you."
"In what capacity?" Chen Wei asked.
"Tianlong Group has entertainment divisions, but they're underperforming. Your Starlight Entertainment is small but has potential—good talent, smart management, growing reputation. I want to invest ¥100 million for a 25% stake and provide you access to Tianlong's resources, connections, and distribution networks."
Chen Wei's mind raced, his Business Genius skill analyzing the offer.
[Analysis: Exceptional offer]
[¥100M investment would make Starlight Entertainment a major player overnight]
[Tianlong's connections would open doors you couldn't access for years]
[However: Bai Yue is known for taking complete control eventually. This could be the first step toward a takeover]
[Recommendation: Negotiate for better terms and protective clauses]
"¥100 million is generous," Chen Wei said carefully. "But 25% is significant. I'd be more comfortable with 20%, and I want guaranteed operational independence. Tianlong provides resources and support, but I maintain complete control of creative and management decisions."
Bai Yue's eyes flashed—surprised and pleased. "You dare negotiate with me? Most people simply accept whatever I offer."
"With respect, Miss Bai, I'm not most people," Chen Wei said, his Silver Tongue activating. "You said you like authenticity. Well, authentically, I won't give up control of the company I built. But I recognize the value of what you're offering, which is why I'm willing to give you 20% instead of refusing entirely."
Bai Yue laughed—a genuine, delighted sound that transformed her cold beauty into something warmer.
"You have steel in you, Chen Wei. I appreciate that." She stood and walked to her desk, pulling out a tablet. "20% it is, with operational independence guaranteed in writing. But I want one condition added."
"Which is?"
"I want regular meetings with you—monthly strategy sessions where we discuss business, exchange ideas, and ensure our partnership remains beneficial to both parties." Her eyes met his directly. "And I want to understand you better. You interest me, Chen Wei. And I'm rarely interested in anyone."
[Warning: Bai Yue is showing personal interest beyond business]
[This could complicate matters significantly]
Chen Wei thought of Xiao Yue, of his promise to be honest. "I should mention that I have a girlfriend. Xiao Yue. We're very serious."
"I know," Bai Yue said calmly. "I know everything about you, Chen Wei. Your relationship, your friends, your recent history with Liu Meng and Zhang Hao. I'm not suggesting anything romantic. I'm simply saying I find you intriguing as a person and potential long-term business partner."
[Bai Yue Favorability: 25/100 → 40/100]
[Status: Mildly Impressed → Genuinely Interested]
[System Note: She's being honest—for now. But be cautious. Women like Bai Yue are used to getting what they want, eventually]
"Then I accept your condition," Chen Wei said. "Monthly meetings to discuss strategy and maintain our partnership."
"Excellent," Bai Yue said, extending her hand. "Welcome to the big leagues, Chen Wei."
They shook hands, and Chen Wei felt the firmness of her grip, the cool confidence in her touch.
"My lawyers will draw up contracts by end of week," Bai Yue continued. "In the meantime, I'm hosting a business gala tomorrow night—Jianghai's elite, politicians, business leaders, celebrities. I'd like you to attend as my guest. It will announce our partnership and establish you as a legitimate player in the city's business scene."
"A gala?" Chen Wei asked.
"Formal event. Wear your best suit. Bring your girlfriend if you'd like—I'm curious to meet the woman who inspired such loyalty." Bai Yue smiled slightly. "Though be warned—my events can be... intense. Lots of politics, networking, and people who will try to use you or undermine you."
"I can handle myself," Chen Wei said confidently.
"I believe you can," Bai Yue said. "That's why I'm investing in you."
[2:30 PM - Starlight Entertainment Office]
Chen Wei returned to find his office buzzing with activity. The news of Tianlong Group's investment had somehow already leaked, and his staff was celebrating.
Tang Xin was waiting in his office, practically bouncing with excitement.
"Chen Wei! Is it true? Tianlong Group is investing ¥100 million?!"
"It's true," Chen Wei confirmed, sitting at his desk. "We're moving into the major leagues, Tang Xin. Which means your movie suddenly has a lot more support and distribution power behind it."
Tang Xin's eyes filled with tears of joy. "This is... I can't believe this is real. A week ago, I was nobody. Now I'm starring in a film backed by Tianlong Group!"
"You earned it," Chen Wei said warmly. "Your talent got you here. I just opened the door."
Tang Xin walked around the desk and hugged him impulsively. "Thank you. For everything. For believing in me, for changing my life, for—"
The office door opened, and Xiao Yue walked in with Zhang Mei behind her.
Tang Xin immediately released Chen Wei and stepped back, blushing. "Sorry! I was just—I'm excited about the news and—"
"It's okay," Xiao Yue said with a gentle smile. "I understand. This is huge news for everyone."
But Chen Wei noticed the slight tension in Xiao Yue's smile, the way her eyes had flickered when she saw Tang Xin hugging him.
[Xiao Yue Mild Jealousy Detected]
[Handle carefully to avoid misunderstanding]
"Xiao Yue," Chen Wei said immediately, standing and walking over to her. He took her hand and kissed it gently. "How was campus?"
"Intense," Xiao Yue admitted. "Everyone wanted to talk to me about last night. But I'm okay." She looked at Tang Xin. "Congratulations on the Tianlong investment. That must be exciting for your movie."
"It is," Tang Xin said, reading the room. "I should let you two talk. Chen Wei, thank you again. I'll see you tomorrow?"
"Tomorrow," Chen Wei confirmed.
After Tang Xin left, Xiao Yue turned to Chen Wei. "She hugs you a lot."
"She's grateful and affectionate," Chen Wei said honestly. "But you know there's nothing between us, right? She knows I love you."
"I know," Xiao Yue said, but her insecurity was showing. "It's just... she's beautiful and talented and you see her every day and—"
Chen Wei cut her off with a kiss—deep, possessive, claiming.
"You," he said firmly when they broke apart, "are my everything. Tang Xin is an employee and friend. You are my heart. There is no comparison. Understand?"
[Reassurance Provided]
[Xiao Yue's Insecurity: Reduced]
Xiao Yue nodded, her smile more genuine now. "I understand. Sorry for being jealous."
"Don't apologize for your feelings," Chen Wei said. "Just trust that I'll always be honest with you."
"I do trust you," Xiao Yue said, then her expression turned curious. "So tell me about this Bai Yue. The Ice Empress herself wants to partner with you?"
Chen Wei told her everything—the investment, the terms, the gala invitation.
"She wants me to bring you to the gala," Chen Wei finished. "She said she's curious to meet you."
"The most powerful businesswoman in Jianghai wants to meet me?" Xiao Yue's eyes widened. "That's terrifying!"
"You'll be amazing," Chen Wei assured her. "But we need to get you a dress. Something stunning that makes every person in that room jealous of me."
Xiao Yue blushed. "Chen Wei..."
"I'm serious. Tomorrow night, you're going to shine."
[5:00 PM - Luxury Shopping District]
Chen Wei took Xiao Yue shopping, with Zhang Mei trailing behind for security. They went to the most exclusive boutique in the city—a place that required appointments and catered to celebrities and the ultra-wealthy.
The owner, a sophisticated woman named Madam Chen, personally attended to them.
"Mr. Chen Wei," she said warmly. "I heard about your partnership with Tianlong Group. Congratulations! Now, you need a dress for Miss Xiao for the gala?"
"The most beautiful dress you have," Chen Wei said. "Something that will take everyone's breath away."
For the next two hours, Xiao Yue tried on dress after dress. Each was stunning, but Chen Wei waited for the perfect one.
And then Xiao Yue emerged from the dressing room in a deep emerald green gown that hugged her figure perfectly. The color made her skin glow, the design was elegant but sexy, and when she moved, the dress shimmered like water.
Chen Wei couldn't speak for a moment.
"This one," he finally said. "Definitely this one."
Xiao Yue looked at herself in the mirror, her eyes shining. "I look..."
"Like a goddess," Chen Wei finished. "You look absolutely perfect."
[Xiao Yue Confidence: Significantly Boosted]
[She feels beautiful and valued]
The dress cost ¥85,000, and Chen Wei paid without hesitation using his Supreme VIP Black Card. They also bought shoes, accessories, and had a stylist booked for tomorrow to do Xiao Yue's hair and makeup.
As they left the boutique, Xiao Yue squeezed Chen Wei's hand.
"Thank you for making me feel special."
"You are special," Chen Wei said. "Tomorrow night, the entire business community is going to see what I see every day—how absolutely remarkable you are."
[8:00 PM - Jianghai Bay Villa]
They arrived home to find Lin Yue waiting in the living room with Wang Lei. She stood when they entered.
"Chen Wei, Xiao Yue. I hope you don't mind—I needed to discuss some urgent matters and Wang Lei let me in."
"Of course," Chen Wei said. "What's wrong?"
Lin Yue pulled out her tablet. "Zhang Wei's lawyer contacted me again. He's trying to negotiate a plea deal and wants to blame everything on Zhang Hao—make him the scapegoat. But there's something else."
She swiped to a new screen. "Zhang Hao has disappeared. He's not at their mansion, not at any known locations. We think he might be planning something desperate."
Chen Wei's jaw tightened. "You think he'll try to come after us again?"
"It's possible. A man with nothing left to lose can be dangerous. I wanted to warn you."
[System Alert: New Threat Detected]
[Zhang Hao: Desperate and Dangerous]
[Recommendation: Increase security measures]
"Liu Han and Zhang Mei are already on high alert," Chen Wei said. "And we have the gala tomorrow night—public event, lots of witnesses. He wouldn't dare try anything there."
"Don't be so sure," Lin Yue warned. "Desperate men do irrational things."
Xiao Yue moved closer to Chen Wei instinctively. "Will we be safe at the gala?"
"Tianlong Group's security is legendary," Lin Yue assured her. "Plus, Chen Wei will have his bodyguards. You'll be safer there than almost anywhere else."
After Lin Yue left to continue her work on the Zhang case, Chen Wei and Xiao Yue sat on the terrace, looking out over the city.
"So much has happened," Xiao Yue said softly. "Just two weeks ago, our lives were completely different."
"Do you ever wish things were simpler?" Chen Wei asked. "Before all the money and drama?"
Xiao Yue thought about it, then shook her head. "No. Because simple life didn't include you. And I'd rather have you with all this craziness than have peace without you."
[Perfect Answer]
[Relationship Depth: Maximum]
Chen Wei pulled her into his lap, holding her close. "Tomorrow is going to be big. We're stepping into a whole new world—the real elite of this city. Are you ready?"
"As long as I'm with you, I'm ready for anything," Xiao Yue said, then kissed him deeply.
They spent the rest of the evening together, making love with passionate intensity, both aware that tomorrow would change everything again.
Chen Wei was moving from successful young entrepreneur to legitimate power player in Jianghai's business world.
And Xiao Yue would be right beside him, proving to everyone that she belonged there.
[Midnight - Unknown Location]
Zhang Hao sat in a dark, cheap hotel room, scrolling through photos on his phone—images of Chen Wei and Xiao Yue looking happy, successful, in love.
His hands shook with rage and humiliation.
His father was in jail. Their family was ruined. Their wealth was gone. And it was all because of Chen Wei.
"Tomorrow," Zhang Hao muttered to himself, staring at a photo of Xiao Yue. "Tomorrow at that gala, when you're surrounded by all those rich people, thinking you've won... I'll show you what real loss feels like."
He pulled out a small card—a contact number given to him by someone who promised they could help him get revenge.
Someone who also had reasons to hate Chen Wei's success.
Zhang Hao dialed the number.
"It's me," he said when someone answered. "I'm ready. Let's do it tomorrow night."
[System Alert: Critical Threat Incoming!]
[Zhang Hao has allied with unknown enemy]
[Gala Event: Danger Level Extreme]
[Prepare for major confrontation]