Chapter Four: The Deal

Qing slowly opened her eyes. The bed beside her was empty, and the intense soreness that radiated from beneath nearly made her curse aloud. How many times had that man gone at it last night? Why was her lower body almost paralyzed, leaving her lying helpless on the bed?

The clothes strewn across the floor and bed had already been tidied away. A set of clean garments was neatly folded at the headboard. Heavy curtains blocked out all sunlight, leaving the room in a dim haze, still lingering with traces of last night’s frenzy.

“I’ve completely lost my mind,” Rong Qing muttered in frustration. By the latter half of the night, she... she had actually colluded with that man, letting him ravage her without resistance!

She took a deep breath. Well then, since she had already taken the first step of selling herself, there was no room for regret—she had to seize this opportunity tightly.

Supporting her waist, Rong Qing made her way to the bathroom and cleaned herself thoroughly. As she watched the milky residue mix with water and swirl down the drain, her face darkened. She quickly finished washing, retrieved the pills she had prepared from her bag, and swallowed them without hesitation. Rong Qing understood her position clearly. Her arrangement with the CEO of the Huo Corporation was purely transactional; she had never entertained unrealistic hopes. All she wanted was to conclude the deal within the three months, regain her freedom, and then charge toward the summit. She had to avoid any complications.

Dressing herself and applying makeup, Rong Qing felt the smooth fabric against her skin. Her dress accentuated her proud figure, noble and elegant—a symbol of status. She knew that some things couldn’t be bought with money alone.

A knock sounded at the door.

“Come in…”

An intellectual-looking man wearing glasses entered. Rong Qing recognized him as the assistant to the CEO of the Huo Corporation. He held a stack of documents and wore a respectful smile.

“Miss Rong, the president has already left for the office. He instructed me to prepare a healthy porridge for you. I’ll bring it in now,” the man said politely.

A maid pushed a meal cart into the room. In a small porcelain bowl was glistening white porridge, each grain sparkling and whetting her appetite. The cart also offered appetizing side dishes.

Rong Qing felt her stomach empty and didn’t stand on ceremony—she quickly finished the bowl, wiping her mouth elegantly with a napkin.

“Miss Rong, my name is Yan Lin. I am the Special Administrative Assistant at Huo Corporation. For the next three months, I will be responsible for your daily affairs. If you have any special requests, you may contact me directly.” Seeing no questions from her, he continued, “The president has already prepared a residence for you at Xiangshan Villa on Wenshui Road. You are to stay there for the next three months; everything you need has been arranged.”

The implication was clear: just move her in and everything would be set. This suited her perfectly—there would be little overlap in their private lives, and after separation, no further complications. Yet, the thought of leaving her own small apartment for three months, parting from her grandparents, made her reluctant.

“After three months, Xiangshan Villa will be yours. These documents contain endorsements and roles I’ve selected for you, along with a comprehensive training program.”

Rong Qing smiled and interrupted him, “Yan Lin, don’t be so formal. I don’t like it. We’re to spend three months together, aren’t we? Let’s relax a little. Now, tell me—what’s your company president’s name?”

The usually composed and shrewd assistant was momentarily stunned. You’ve done everything that needed doing, yet you didn’t even ask about the name before climbing onto the Huo Corporation tree? Isn’t it because of the president’s handsome, wealthy, and noble status that you agreed to these terms? Now you’re telling me you don’t even know his name! Luckily, Yan Lin quickly regained his composure.

“Ahem… Huo Ling Tian.”

Satisfied with the answer, Rong Qing continued, “Yan Lin, this is my career. I don’t need your arrangements. The only thing I require is for your company to change my current predicament and offer me an opportunity. I hope my path in entertainment will remain unobstructed.” She would claim the crown in acting by her own abilities. Though she had sold her body, her ambitions and ideals would not be buried alongside it.

Yan Lin wasn’t particularly surprised. His sharp gaze reflected a deeper understanding, and with a hint of playful teasing, he said, “Then you won’t object to us assigning you an assistant?”

“Of course not. I trust your capabilities.” It seemed the Huo Corporation knew her well—down to the details of her female assistant and her boyfriend sleeping together.

Noticing the cold smile in Rong Qing’s eyes, Yan Lin explained, “Miss Rong, please don’t mind. This is simply our preliminary work.”

“I understand. Well then, shall we go?”

“Hm?”

“To Xiangshan Villa, isn’t it? While this place is comfortable, I don’t want to stay here long-term,” Rong Qing replied breezily.

“Heh…” Yan Lin followed, shaking his head helplessly. Facing her, even his mind seemed to slow.

－－－－－－Author’s Note－－－－－－
Please support Lanlan’s work—the author thanks you sincerely. It’s frustrating that most of yesterday’s update was censored, but you can still see it in the comments. If you enjoy Lanlan’s stories, please show your support and add them to your collection…