The night was as dark as ink, so thick it seemed impenetrable. A black sedan slowly drove through the gates of the Huo family mansion; the iron gates opened silently, like the gaping maw of a slumbering beast. I sat in the back seat, my gaze calm as I looked out the window. One by one, the cold white streetlights flickered on, their harsh glare illuminating my face. The light was so chilling it sent shivers down my spine, as if it wanted to sever me completely from the past twenty-two years of my life.
When the car came to a stop, the driver opened the door for me. I stepped out, the biting wind rushing at my face, but I didn't flinch. I simply stood there, quietly taking in this mansion—a symbol of power and wealth.
The butler approached expressionlessly, his voice low and formal: "Miss Gu, Mr. Huo is waiting for you inside."
I nodded slightly, asked no questions, and followed him in. My high heels clicked crisply against the marble floor, the sound especially jarring in the silence of the night.
The living room was vast, almost cold in its emptiness. A grand crystal chandelier hung from the high ceiling, but only a few wall lamps were lit, casting the entire space in a hazy, oppressive atmosphere.
And then, I saw him.
By the window, a man sat in a wheelchair, a thick blanket draped over his legs. He faced away from the door, so all I could see was his neatly combed black hair and his long, pale fingers resting on the armrest—pale, yet exuding undeniable strength.
This was Huo Chenzhou, the Huo family's legendary cripple—cold, distant, and rumored to be a discarded son on the verge of death.
The butler quietly withdrew, leaving me alone with the man who would soon be my husband.
He slowly turned his wheelchair to face me. When his deep gaze landed on me, my heart trembled slightly. Those eyes were nothing like those of a bedridden invalid—too clear, too sharp, as if they could see through all pretense. His back was ramrod straight, and even seated, he radiated an unspoken authority.
"Gu Nian?" His voice was low and calm, not a trace of weakness—on the contrary, it carried an unquestionable authority.
I met his gaze, neither dodging nor feigning humility. "That's me."
For a moment, the air seemed to freeze. We sized each other up, like two beasts testing each other in the dark.
He suddenly spoke, his tone indifferent: "You can leave now."
I was momentarily stunned, then the corners of my lips curved into a faint smile. Even to myself, this smile felt unfamiliar, yet it matched my mood perfectly—burning bridges, with no way back.
"I wasn't the one you chose," my voice was surprisingly steady, "but since I'm here, I won't give up halfway."
For the first time, his gaze lingered on my face a second longer than necessary. A flicker of elusive interest flashed in his eyes, before returning to its usual inscrutable calm.
"Sit."
I took a seat on the sofa opposite him, not far away. This was neither an interrogation nor a newlywed's tender conversation, but rather a negotiation both sides understood.
"What does this marriage mean to you?" he asked, his fingers unconsciously tapping the armrest.
I didn't answer with "love" or "a sense of belonging" like most people might. Instead, I looked him straight in the eyes and said firmly, "It means I no longer belong to the Gu family."
His fingertips paused for a moment. In that instant, I seemed to see a flash of realization in his eyes—this woman wasn't a sacrificial lamb sent by her family, but someone who had chosen to step into this marriage herself.
He spoke softly, his tone unreadable: "The Huo family doesn't need an obedient wife."
I replied almost without thinking, "I don't need pity."
Those two sentences seemed to break the barrier between us. A strange sense of understanding formed—no more words were needed; we understood each other.
Huo Chenzhou slowly leaned back in his wheelchair, his tone returning to indifference: "In that case, you may stay."
No promises, no guarantees, not even a hint of warmth. But those words were enough to change the course of my life.
I stood up and nodded slightly. "Then, good night."
As I turned to leave, my back was straight—just like his. I knew that from this moment on, my life would change completely—and this change was my own choice.
What I didn't see was that after I left the living room, Huo Chenzhou's hand briefly left the armrest, his fingers flexing with strength and agility—nothing like a cripple's. His gaze followed my departing figure, the corners of his lips lifting in an almost imperceptible smile.
"Interesting," he murmured, his voice barely audible.
The butler appeared at the doorway, waiting respectfully for instructions.
"Arrange for her to stay in the east guest room," Huo Chenzhou's voice was still cold. "No one is to disturb her without my permission."
"Yes, sir." The butler bowed, then hesitated. "And about announcing the marriage to the public…?"
"Proceed as planned," Huo Chenzhou waved his hand. "Let everyone know the Huo family has a new mistress."
After the butler left, Huo Chenzhou wheeled himself to the window. The night was still thick, but his gaze was piercingly clear. He picked up his phone and dialed a number.
"She's here," he said simply.
A calm male voice answered on the other end, "And then?"
"She's not like the Gu family," Huo Chenzhou replied coldly, "Too clear-headed, too calm—not someone who grew up in that environment."
"Should we investigate further?"
"Not yet," Huo Chenzhou looked out the window. "I want to see what surprises she brings."
After hanging up, he glanced down at his legs, a complicated emotion flashing through his eyes. This state had lasted so long, he sometimes almost forgot what it felt like to stand. But now, it seemed something had changed.
Meanwhile, I followed a maid to the second-floor guest room. The room was spacious and exquisitely decorated, but cold and empty, as if it hadn't been lived in for a long time.
"Miss Gu, this is your room," the maid said respectfully but distantly. "The bathroom is over there, and there are some basic clothes in the wardrobe. If you need anything else, please let me know."
"Thank you," I nodded. "What should I call you?"
"My name is Xiaolin, I'm the maid responsible for this floor." She bowed slightly. "Breakfast is at seven. I'll come to wake you."
"No need," I replied lightly. "I know where the dining room is. I'll come down myself."
A flicker of surprise flashed in Xiaolin's eyes, but she quickly regained her professional composure. "Very well. Good night."
After the door closed, I let out a long breath, finally dropping all pretense. I walked to the floor-to-ceiling window, gazing out at the vast courtyard, my mind racing.
This was the Huo family, one of Yun City's most prominent families. And I, Gu Nian, the long-neglected second daughter of the Gu family, had become the mistress here. How ironic.
I recalled my mother's cold expression before I left, and my sister Gu Yao's proud yet pitying gaze.
"Nian Nian, this is the best way for you to contribute to the Gu family," my mother had said coldly. "The Huo family's heir may be disabled, but at least he's wealthy. You won't suffer."
Not suffer? I almost laughed. Who didn't know Huo Chenzhou's awkward position in the family, marginalized for years? Marrying him was like leaping into a fire pit. But for the Gu family's benefit, and so my sister could marry her beloved, I—the second daughter—became the perfect sacrifice.
But I never told anyone that, deep down, I actually felt a sense of relief when my mother made this request. Leaving the Gu family, the home where I was always overlooked, might not be a bad thing. Even if what lay ahead was a dragon's lair or a tiger's den, I was willing to try.
After washing up, I lay in bed but couldn't sleep. Too much had happened today; I needed time to process it all.
Suddenly, there was a gentle knock at the door.
I sat up warily. "Who is it?"
"It's me, Xiaolin." The maid's voice came from outside. "I brought you a glass of warm milk. It'll help you sleep."
I got up and opened the door. Xiaolin stood there with a tray, a steaming glass of milk on top.
"Thank you," I said as I took the tray. "You don't need to go to so much trouble in the future. I don't need special care."
Xiaolin nodded, but didn't leave right away. She hesitated, looking at me.
"Is there anything else?" I asked.
She lowered her voice. "Miss Gu, in this house, there are some things you'd best pretend not to see, and some words you'd best pretend not to hear."
My eyes flickered. "Is that advice or a warning?"
"Just a friendly reminder," Xiaolin lowered her gaze. "Good night."
Watching her leave, I closed the door, unease rising in my heart. It seemed the undercurrents in the Huo mansion were deeper than I'd imagined.
The next morning at seven sharp, I went downstairs for breakfast. The table was already laid with a sumptuous spread, but only Huo Chenzhou sat at the long table. He was still in his wheelchair, a cup of black coffee and a newspaper in front of him. When he saw me, he glanced up briefly, then returned to his paper.
"Good morning," I greeted him first, taking the seat opposite.
"Good morning," he replied without looking up.
We ate in silence, the atmosphere awkward and heavy. I noticed his plate held only eggs and bacon, and he barely touched it.
"Not to your taste?" I couldn't help asking.
He finally put down the newspaper and looked at me. "You seem very concerned about my diet."
"Well, we're married now, aren't we?" I replied calmly, meeting his gaze.
He chuckled, his tone ambiguous. "So, as my wife, what are your plans?"
I set down my knife and fork, meeting his eyes. "First, get familiar with the place. Second, get to know my… husband." I deliberately paused on the word "husband," watching for his reaction.
But his expression didn't change; he simply asked, "Need someone to show you around?"
"No need, I can manage." I stood up. "Enjoy your meal."
Leaving the dining room, I let out a long breath. Being with Huo Chenzhou was even more suffocating than I'd imagined. His gaze seemed to see through everything, leaving me nowhere to hide. But I, Gu Nian, have never been one to back down easily.
I began exploring the mansion on my own. The Huo estate was even larger than it looked from outside. The main building alone had three floors, plus east and west wings—it was practically a maze.
At the end of the second-floor corridor, I found a room that stood out. The door was heavy solid wood, intricately carved, out of place among the modern decor. Curious, I tried the handle, but it was locked.
"That room is off limits." A sudden voice startled me.
I turned to see Huo Chenzhou at the end of the corridor, his wheelchair moving silently over the thick carpet.
"Sorry, I was just curious," I said calmly, showing no sign of panic.
He wheeled over, his gaze sharp. "There are rules in this house you need to know. First, don't ask questions you shouldn't. Second, don't go where you shouldn't. Third—" he paused, his voice dropping, "don't be curious about things you shouldn't be curious about."
I met his eyes. "Then, what questions are appropriate, what places can I go, and what things am I allowed to be curious about?"
We locked eyes, sparks seemingly flying in the air. In the end, he looked away first, his tone softening. "You'll understand eventually. For now, come to the study. There are documents you need to sign."
I followed him to the study—a spacious, tidy room with bookshelves lining the walls and a massive rosewood desk in the center. He took a document from the drawer and handed it to me. "This is the prenuptial agreement. Read it—sign if you have no objections."
I read it carefully. The terms were much fairer than I'd expected, even protecting my interests to some extent. I was a little surprised.
"Seems the Huo family is quite generous to the 'discarded son's' wife," I said softly, then regretted my bluntness.
But he didn't get angry—he actually smiled. "You're very direct."
"Sorry, I meant no offense."
"No need to apologize," he waved a hand. "I like straightforward people. Go ahead and sign."
I picked up the pen and signed my name where indicated. In the quiet study, the sound of the pen scratching the paper was unusually clear.
"From today, you're officially Mrs. Huo." He put away the document, his tone flat. "I hope you won't regret this decision."
"I never do things I'll regret," I replied.
He looked at me thoughtfully, then suddenly asked, "Why did the Gu family choose you as the substitute bride? As far as I know, Gu Yao is their favorite daughter."
It was a sharp question, but I was prepared. "Because they couldn't bear to let Gu Yao marry a 'cripple' like you," I said bluntly, "and I've always been overlooked, which made me the perfect sacrifice."
A glint flashed in his eyes—too quick for me to catch.
"Then why did you agree?" he pressed.
I was silent for a moment, then decided to share part of the truth. "Because I wanted to leave the Gu family. And this was the best chance."
He nodded, seemingly satisfied with my answer.
Just then, the study door was knocked.
"Come in," Huo Chenzhou called.
A young man with gold-rimmed glasses entered, carrying a briefcase and looking sharp and capable. He was clearly startled to see me.
"This is Assistant Lin, my personal assistant," Huo Chenzhou introduced, then turned to the man. "This is Gu Nian, my new wife."
Assistant Lin quickly regained his composure and bowed slightly. "Pleased to meet you, Mrs. Huo."
"Hello," I nodded.
"What is it?" Huo Chenzhou asked.
Assistant Lin glanced at me, hesitating.
"Speak freely," Huo Chenzhou said coldly. "She'll know sooner or later."
"It's about the bidding for the land in the south of the city," Assistant Lin opened his briefcase and took out some documents. "The second branch seems to be up to something. Our people found they've been secretly contacting members of the bidding committee."
Huo Chenzhou sneered, "They just won't give up. Proceed as planned—let them have their way."
"But—"
"No buts," Huo Chenzhou cut him off. "Do as I say."
"Yes," Assistant Lin put away the documents, glanced at me again, and left.
We were alone again. Huo Chenzhou looked at me, his tone meaningful. "Looks like you're starting to understand the Huo family."
"Infighting?" I raised an eyebrow.
"It happens every day," he said lightly, as if discussing the weather.
A chill ran through me. Huo Chenzhou's situation seemed even more complicated than I'd thought. This marriage might be far deeper than it appeared on the surface.
That afternoon, I received an unexpected call—from my mother.
"Nian Nian, have you settled in at the Huo family?" She sounded concerned, but I knew her too well; her concern always had strings attached.
"I'm fine," I replied briefly.
"How is Huo Chenzhou treating you? He hasn't made things difficult for you, has he?" she probed. "I heard he's eccentric, maybe because of his disability…"
"He's fine," I cut her off. "Much better than I expected."
After a brief silence, my mother's voice came again, now tinged with urgency. "That's good. Actually, I called to ask a favor."
Of course. I sneered inwardly, but kept my tone calm. "What is it?"
"Gu Group is having some cash flow issues and needs a short-term loan. The bank procedures are too cumbersome. Could you ask Huo Chenzhou to lend us fifty million? We'll pay it back soon."
Fifty million? And she said they'd pay it back soon? I almost laughed. I knew enough about Gu Group's finances to know that if this money went out, it would never come back.
"I just got married—it's not appropriate to ask for such a large sum right away." I politely refused.
"Why not? You're Mrs. Huo now, surely you have that much influence?" My mother's tone hardened. "Besides, the Gu family raised you. It's time to repay us."
Here we go again—emotional blackmail. She'd used this tactic for years, as if I was born owing the Gu family.
"I'll try, but I can't promise anything," I finally said—not out of weakness, but because I wasn't ready to break with the Gu family just yet.
After I hung up, I realized Huo Chenzhou was standing at the door, clearly having overheard part of the conversation.
"The Gu family wants to borrow money?" he asked directly.
I nodded, hiding nothing. "Fifty million, for short-term cash flow."
He wheeled in, a faint smile on his face. "Did you agree?"
"I said I'd try, but couldn't promise," I answered honestly.
He pressed, "Why not just refuse outright?"
I met his gaze. "Because the time isn't right."
A hint of admiration flashed in his eyes, then disappeared. "Fifty million is nothing to the Huo family, but I never do unprofitable business."
"I understand."
"Tell them the money can be lent, but only with collateral," Huo Chenzhou said coldly. "Use Gu Group's office building as collateral."
I was shocked. That office building was Gu Group's last valuable asset. If they couldn't repay the loan, the Gu family would be finished.
"They might not accept those terms," I said.
"That's not my problem," he shrugged. "By the way, Gu Group's finances are worse than you think. Fifty million won't fill the hole."
I looked at him, suddenly realizing how much he knew about the Gu family's situation. Maybe this marriage had been part of his plan all along.
"You knew the Gu family would come for money, didn't you?" I asked directly.
He smiled, neither confirming nor denying. "Mrs. Huo, go do what you need to do."
Leaving the study, I felt deeply conflicted. Huo Chenzhou was far more inscrutable than he appeared. In this game, I seemed to be both a pawn and a player.
When I relayed Huo Chenzhou's terms to my mother, she exploded in anger.
"What? Use the office building as collateral? How dare he make such a demand!" she screamed. "Gu Nian, did you even try? Or did you not speak up for us at all?"
I calmly held the phone, waiting for her to finish before speaking. "Mom, fifty million isn't a small sum. It's normal business practice to ask for collateral."
"Normal? He's taking advantage of us!" she fumed. "Go talk to him again. For the sake of both families, ask him to be flexible. You're Mrs. Huo now—you should have a say, right?"
"I've only been married a day. How much influence do you think I have?" I retorted, my tone tinged with sarcasm.
After a moment of silence, my mother's tone suddenly softened. "Nian Nian, I know we've neglected you all these years, but we're still family. You can't just stand by if the Gu family is in trouble."
There it was again—carrot and stick. She'd used this too many times; I was immune.
"I'll try again, but don't get your hopes up," I said at last—not out of pity, but to see just how shameless the Gu family could be.
After hanging up, I stood by the window for a long time. The setting sun bathed the vast Huo estate in a breathtaking yet bone-chilling glow.
"Seems you're not very good at saying 'no'," Huo Chenzhou's voice came from behind me.
I turned to see him in the corridor. "It's not that I can't—it's just not the right time," I replied coolly.
He wheeled over to my side, gazing out the window with me. "When will it be the right time?"
"When I'm strong enough," I answered, my voice calm but resolute.
He turned to look at me, his gaze deep. "Then show me how you'll become strong, Mrs. Huo."
At dinner, the atmosphere was even heavier than in the morning. We ate in silence, each lost in our own thoughts. Suddenly, Huo Chenzhou broke the silence: "There's a family gathering tomorrow. You'll have to attend."
I looked up at him. "What kind of gathering?"
"The Huo family's monthly dinner. All family members must attend." His tone was flat, but I detected a hint of impatience.
"Is there anything I should prepare?" I asked.
"Just be yourself," he said meaningfully. "But someone might try to make things difficult for you."
"Because of my background?" I raised an eyebrow.
"Because you're my wife." He set down his cutlery and looked me in the eye. "In this family, I have more enemies than friends."
I nodded in understanding. I'd never experienced the power struggles of a wealthy family, but after years in the Gu family, I'd seen my share of schemes.
"Anything in particular I should watch out for?" I asked.
He thought for a moment. "Stay away from the second branch, especially Huo Qiming. He's my cousin—and the most ambitious."
"Thank you for the warning," I said sincerely.
He looked a little surprised. "You're very calm."
"When in Rome," I smiled. "Besides, the show's just begun, hasn't it?"
A flicker of admiration flashed in his eyes, then vanished. "I hope you can always stay this calm."
After dinner, I returned to my room to prepare for the gathering. Although Huo Chenzhou told me to just be myself, I knew how important first impressions were—especially in a wealthy family. I carefully looked through the wardrobe and finally chose a simple, elegant navy dress—neither flashy nor lacking in status.
Just as I was about to rest, my phone rang again. This time, it was my sister, Gu Yao.
"I heard Huo Chenzhou wants to mortgage the office building?" she snapped. "Gu Nian, are you doing this on purpose? Do you want to see the Gu family collapse?"
I sighed. "That's the Huo family's decision. It has nothing to do with me."
"Don't give me that! You're Mrs. Huo now and can't even handle this? Or do you just not want to?"
"Think whatever you want," I couldn't be bothered to argue.
"I'm warning you, Gu Nian," her voice turned shrill, "if you bring any trouble to the Gu family, I won't let you off!"
"When has the Gu family ever suffered because of me?" I retorted coldly. "When have any of you ever considered me?"
There was a pause, then Gu Yao's voice suddenly turned syrupy sweet. "Nian Nian, I was just too worked up before, don't take it to heart. Actually, I'm getting engaged to Wen Xuan next month, but my dowry is a bit short. Can you help me borrow a little from the Huo family? Not much, just ten million."
Wen Xuan was her fiancé, a rising star in Yun City—not as wealthy as the Huo family, but quite well-known. I hadn't expected her greed to be so bottomless. First fifty million, now ten million.
"I can't help you," I refused directly.
"Gu Nian! Don't be ungrateful!" She immediately dropped the act. "Don't think marrying into the Huo family makes you a phoenix! You'll always be the unwanted second daughter of the Gu family!"
"Are you done?" I asked calmly. "If so, I'm hanging up."
Without waiting for her reply, I hung up and turned off my phone. The world was finally quiet.
I stood before the mirror, staring at my reflection. Twenty-two years of endurance and repression had become steely resolve. From now on, I would no longer be the Gu family's pawn. I was Gu Nian, Huo Chenzhou's wife, mistress of the Huo family. No matter how rough the road ahead, I would keep moving forward—because this path was my own choice.
The next morning, I got up early and dressed carefully. The navy dress fit perfectly—elegant and dignified. I put on light makeup and pinned my long hair into a neat bun, looking poised and confident.
When I went downstairs, Huo Chenzhou was already waiting in the dining room. When he saw me, a flicker of surprise crossed his eyes, but he quickly regained his composure.
"Ready?" he asked.
I nodded. "I won't embarrass you."
He chuckled. "Let's hope so."
After breakfast, Assistant Lin arrived on time, looking even more serious than yesterday.
"The second branch is here," he quietly reported to Huo Chenzhou. "The old master returned early from the nursing home—he's taking this gathering very seriously."
Huo Chenzhou's expression didn't change at all; he merely replied, "Mm." I noticed that today, a thick blanket covered his legs and his face was paler than usual, making him look even weaker. If not for his sharp eyes, anyone would think he was a dying invalid.
"Are you acting?" I asked him quietly.
He glanced at me, the corners of his mouth lifting slightly. "Smart."
The family gathering was held in the Huo family's grandest banquet hall. When we arrived, many people were already present. As soon as we entered, all eyes turned to us—especially me, the "new Mrs. Huo."
I maintained a polite smile, my hand lightly resting on the handle of Huo Chenzhou's wheelchair, as if we truly were a loving couple.
"Chenzhou is here," a middle-aged man walked over, smiling but with cold eyes. "This must be the new bride? Truly a match made in heaven."
"Uncle, you flatter us," Huo Chenzhou replied blandly. "Nian Nian, this is Second Uncle Huo Zhengxiong."
"Hello, Second Uncle," I bowed politely.
Huo Zhengxiong looked me up and down, his gaze sharp as a knife. "A daughter of the Gu family? I remember the eldest is Gu Yao. Why the sudden switch?"
His words were blunt, clearly meant to embarrass me.
I remained composed, smiling. "Fate is unpredictable, isn't it? Just like how you unexpectedly married Second Aunt."
Huo Zhengxiong's face instantly darkened. His marriage had indeed caused a stir, marrying a woman of lower status, which was a scandal in the Huo family.
Huo Chenzhou coughed lightly to hide a smile. "Uncle, let's go greet Grandpa."
As I wheeled Huo Chenzhou away, I felt burning gazes on my back.
"I underestimated you," Huo Chenzhou said quietly. "You even investigated my uncle's past?"
"Know yourself and your enemy, and you'll never lose," I replied softly.
The old master sat at the head of the hall. Though aged, his gaze was still sharp. When he saw us, he smiled kindly.
"Chenzhou, this must be your wife? Come, let me see her."
I stepped forward and bowed respectfully. "Hello, Grandpa. I'm Gu Nian."
He studied me carefully, then nodded. "Good, good. Chenzhou is lucky."
Just then, a young man walked over, smiling but with a hint of mockery in his eyes. "Cousin, aren't you going to introduce us? Is this the so-called 'substitute bride'?"
The room fell silent, all eyes on me, waiting to see my reaction.
Before Huo Chenzhou could speak, I answered first.
"You must be Cousin Qiming?" I smiled at him. "Chenzhou often mentions you—says you're the most energetic young man in the Huo family."
Huo Qiming was momentarily stunned, clearly not expecting that response.
I continued, my voice clear and calm: "As for this 'substitute bride' talk, that must be a misunderstanding. Marriage is between two people—how could there be a substitute? Unless cousin thinks marriage isn't based on mutual affection?"
Huo Qiming's face changed, momentarily speechless. Several people nearby chuckled, clearly enjoying his discomfort.
Huo Chenzhou chimed in, his tone indulgent: "Nian Nian loves to joke, Qiming, don't take it to heart."
"Of course not," Huo Qiming forced a smile. "Sister-in-law is certainly eloquent."
I'd barely gained the upper hand in this round, but I knew this was only the beginning.
Halfway through the gathering, I excused myself to use the restroom. In the corridor, I overheard a conversation.
"…Are you sure he's really disabled? Something just doesn't seem right," Huo Qiming's voice said.
Another man replied, "The doctor's diagnosis can't be wrong. Besides, what would he gain by faking it?"
"Plenty! Everyone lets their guard down!" Huo Qiming snorted. "I know my cousin too well—he never does anything without a reason."
"So what are you going to do?"
"Test him," Huo Qiming lowered his voice. "Later, you 'accidentally' spill red wine on his legs. Let's see how he reacts."
My heart skipped a beat. Huo Chenzhou's disability was fake. If red wine was spilled on his legs, he'd have to pretend not to feel it—which was hard for a normal person.
I quickly thought of a solution.
Back in the banquet hall, I saw Huo Qiming and his accomplice approaching Huo Chenzhou. I walked over nonchalantly, standing by his wheelchair.
"Where were you so long?" Huo Chenzhou asked quietly.
"I was touching up my makeup," I replied, taking the chance to gently pinch his arm. He tensed almost imperceptibly, then relaxed.
At that moment, Huo Qiming's accomplice "accidentally" stumbled, spilling red wine on Huo Chenzhou's legs.
In a flash, I instinctively turned and shielded him with my back. The deep red liquid soaked my dress, leaving a large stain.
The room fell silent, everyone staring in shock.
"S-sorry! I didn't mean to!" the culprit apologized, glancing at Huo Qiming.
I turned around, my back cold and wet, but maintained a polite smile. "It's fine, just an accident."
Huo Chenzhou looked up at me, his gaze complicated. He took my hand, his voice unusually gentle: "Does it hurt?"
I shook my head, forcing a smile. "Just a shame about the dress."
The old master barked, "Take Miss to change!"
Several maids hurried me away. As I left, I caught a glimpse of Huo Qiming's ashen face and smirked—he'd lost this round.
While changing in the guest room, I reflected on my actions. Why did I protect Huo Chenzhou? Was it instinct, or calculation? Perhaps both. My gut told me his act had to continue, and my fate was now tied to his. Helping him was helping myself.
When I returned to the hall, the gathering was winding down. Huo Chenzhou signaled for me to wheel him out. After bidding farewell to the elders, we finally left the suffocating hall.
Back on our floor, Huo Chenzhou motioned for me to take him to the study. Once the door was closed, he turned his wheelchair to face me, his gaze sharp.
Why did you do that?
I replied calmly, "We're husband and wife, aren't we? We should support each other."
He stared at me for a long time, until I felt he'd seen through all my defenses. Finally, he spoke, his voice low and sincere: "From today on, no one can bully you, Gu Nian. My wife is not to be trifled with."
That sounded both like a promise and a declaration. Looking at him, I suddenly felt this marriage might be more than just a transaction.
At that moment, someone knocked. Xiaolin stood at the door, looking flustered.
"Sir, madam, the Gu family called—they say it's urgent."
I exchanged a glance with Huo Chenzhou, a sense of foreboding rising in my heart.
What's meant to happen, will always happen in the end.