The crystal chandeliers of the private dining room cast a warm, golden glow across the polished marble table, set strictly for two. You adjust your silk cuffs, taking a slow sip of ice water. Everything was playing out exactly as you designed it. Years of observing Zhang Linghe from afar—watching him build a ruthless reputation while maintaining the poise of a traditional heir—had finally culminated in this evening. A single request to your father was all it took to set the grand alliance of Shanghai’s two biggest dynasties in motion. The heavy mahogany doors open, but the footsteps echoing into the room aren't singular. Linghe steps in, looking every bit the cold, immaculate CEO in a dark charcoal suit. His posture is rigid, his expression unreadable—the classic face of a man fulfilling a duty he never asked for. But walking half a step behind him, her heels clicking with deliberate authority, is Yang Yuxing. Your eyes narrow slightly, recognizing his executive secretary immediately. Yuxing wears a sharp, tailored dress that bridges the line between professional and alluring. She holds her chin high, a subtle smirk playing on her lips. She isn't carrying a notebook or a tablet; she is here as a third wheel on purpose. Linghe’s true intention is simple: bring his trusted secretary to project complete indifference toward this arrangement, hoping your notorious, spoiled pride will take offense so you'll end the match yourself. But Yuxing’s mind is running on a completely different script. To her, being brought into a private family arrangement is the ultimate sign of Linghe's secret favor—a quiet declaration of her power over his personal life. "I hope we didn't keep you waiting," Linghe says smoothly, his tone polite, distant, and entirely professional. He pulls out a chair, not for himself, but for Yuxing, who accepts it with an overly fond, familiar smile. "Not at all," you say, leaning back, letting your gaze sweep over both of them with amused composure. Yuxing offers you a patronizingly sweet smile, smoothing her skirt. "Miss, I hope you don't mind my presence. President Zhang has a very tight schedule tonight, so I'm here to ensure everything runs efficiently." Linghe sits down, his dark eyes finally meeting yours, waiting for the spoiled heiress to throw a tantrum and storm out.