[Next Morning - 7:00 AM - Jianghai Bay Villa]
Chen Wei woke to the sound of the doorbell ringing. Xiao Yue stirred beside him, mumbling sleepily.
"Who's here so early?" she asked, her voice adorably groggy.
"Security," Chen Wei said, kissing her forehead. "Zhou Qiang sent bodyguards. Stay here, I'll handle it."
He threw on clothes and headed downstairs. Through the security camera, he saw two people standing at the gate—a man and a woman, both in professional attire, clearly ex-military from their bearing.
Chen Wei opened the door. The man stepped forward first—tall, muscular, probably early thirties, with alert eyes that missed nothing.
"Mr. Chen? I'm Liu Han, and this is my partner, Zhang Mei. Mr. Zhou Qiang hired us to ensure your safety and that of Miss Xiao Yue." He presented credentials from one of the city's most prestigious security firms.
Zhang Mei was equally impressive—late twenties, athletic build, sharp features, and an aura of competence. "We've been briefed on the Zhang family situation. We'll maintain a low profile but stay close enough to intervene if necessary."
"Come in," Chen Wei said, stepping aside.
As they entered, Xiao Yue appeared on the stairs, wearing one of Chen Wei's shirts and looking adorably disheveled. She froze when she saw the strangers.
"Chen Wei? What's going on?"
Chen Wei walked over and took her hand gently. "Xiao Yue, these are bodyguards. The Zhang family might try something, and I'm not taking any chances with your safety."
Xiao Yue's eyes widened with fear. "Bodyguards? Chen Wei, is it really that serious?"
"It's just a precaution," Chen Wei said, though his jaw was tight. "I won't let anyone hurt you."
[Protective Gesture: Xiao Yue feels deeply cherished]
[Relationship Security: Increased]
Liu Han spoke up professionally. "Miss Xiao, we'll be discreet. You won't even notice we're there most of the time. But if there's any threat, we'll handle it immediately."
Xiao Yue moved closer to Chen Wei, clearly frightened. "This is all because of me, isn't it? Because Zhang Hao is angry you're with me?"
"This is because Zhang Hao is a spoiled brat who can't accept losing," Chen Wei corrected firmly. He cupped her face gently. "You are not the problem. You're the most important person in my life, and I will protect you with everything I have."
Xiao Yue's eyes filled with tears—not of fear, but of overwhelming emotion. "I love you so much."
"I love you too," Chen Wei said, kissing her softly despite their audience.
[Intimate Moment: Xiao Yue Favorability remains at 100/100]
[New Effect: "Unshakeable Bond" - No external threat can weaken your relationship]
After breakfast, where Liu Han and Zhang Mei efficiently went over security protocols, Chen Wei prepared for his day. He had meetings at the office, and Tang Xin's audition was scheduled for 2:00 PM.
"I'll drive you to campus," Chen Wei told Xiao Yue. "Zhang Mei will stay with you during classes."
"I feel like a celebrity," Xiao Yue said with a nervous laugh.
"You're more important than any celebrity," Chen Wei said seriously. "Humor me on this."
[9:30 AM - Starlight Entertainment Office]
Chen Wei arrived to find his staff buzzing with nervous energy. Xiao Min rushed over as soon as he entered.
"Mr. Chen! There's someone waiting in your office. He said it was urgent and that Mr. Zhou sent him."
Curious, Chen Wei entered his office to find a well-dressed man in his forties examining the artwork on the walls.
"Mr. Chen?" The man turned with a professional smile. "I'm Detective Wang Feng. I work privately for several prominent families, including Zhou Qiang's. He asked me to investigate the Zhang family's activities. I have some concerning information."
Chen Wei gestured to the seating area. "I'm listening."
Detective Wang pulled out a tablet. "Zhang Wei—Zhang Hao's father—has been making moves. Three days ago, he contacted several media outlets offering 'exclusive stories' about your supposed criminal activities. When that didn't work, he tried to bribe university officials to expel you for 'academic misconduct.'"
"That failed too, I assume?" Chen Wei said coldly.
"Your record is spotless, so yes. But yesterday, things escalated." Wang swiped to a new screen showing surveillance photos. "Zhang Wei met with known members of street gangs. We believe he's planning to stage an 'accident' involving Miss Xiao Yue."
Chen Wei's blood ran cold. "An accident?"
"Nothing fatal—probably a minor injury or scare tactic to make you back down. But the intent is clear. They want to hurt her to hurt you."
[System Alert: Threat Level Increased!]
[Zhang family's aggression: Critical]
[Recommendation: Prepare countermeasures immediately]
Chen Wei's hands clenched into fists. "When?"
"We don't have a specific timeframe, but likely within the next few days. That's why Zhou Qiang sent Liu Han and Zhang Mei—they're prepared for this kind of threat."
"Is there any way to stop this legally?" Chen Wei asked. "Evidence we can use?"
"Working on it," Wang said. "But the Zhangs are careful. However, I'm also investigating their business dealings. Zhang Wei's company has several questionable contracts and potential tax irregularities. If we can expose those, it might force him to back off."
"How long will that take?"
"A few days, maybe a week. Can you keep Miss Xiao safe that long?"
"I'll keep her safe forever if I have to," Chen Wei said with absolute conviction.
After Detective Wang left, Chen Wei called Lin Yue.
"Chen Wei," she answered immediately. "Is everything okay?"
"The Zhang family is planning to hurt Xiao Yue," Chen Wei said without preamble. "I need your help accelerating the investigation into their business practices. Can you put pressure on them legally?"
Lin Yue's voice turned deadly cold. "They're threatening to harm an innocent woman? Oh, they just made this personal. I'll have my team tear apart every contract and filing they've ever made. If there's dirt, we'll find it."
"Thank you," Chen Wei said, feeling some tension ease. "Lin Yue..."
"Yes?"
"Be careful. If they're willing to target Xiao Yue, they might come after you too."
There was a pause, then Lin Yue's voice softened. "You're worried about me?"
"Of course I am. You're important to me."
"That's..." Lin Yue took a breath. "That's very sweet. But I can handle myself, Chen Wei. I've dealt with dangerous people before. You just focus on protecting your girlfriend."
"I will. See you tomorrow night?"
"Definitely. I'm actually looking forward to it even more now. After all this stress, we both deserve a perfect evening." Her voice became intimate. "And I promise, Chen Wei, it will be perfect."
[Lin Yue Favorability: 96/100 → 98/100]
[Status: Nearly In Love → Completely Committed]
[System Note: Tomorrow's evening will seal the relationship completely]
[1:45 PM - Director Wang Ming's Studio]
Chen Wei arrived early to support Tang Xin for her audition. She was already there, pacing nervously in the waiting area, dressed in a simple but elegant outfit that made her look like the character she was auditioning for.
"Chen Wei!" She rushed over when she saw him. "You came! I didn't think you'd actually—"
"Of course I came," Chen Wei said warmly. "I told you I believed in you. I meant it."
Tang Xin's eyes filled with grateful tears. "I'm so nervous. What if I mess up? What if—"
Chen Wei gently gripped her shoulders. "Tang Xin, look at me. You are talented, prepared, and perfect for this role. Director Wang wouldn't have agreed to see you if I hadn't sent him your demo reel. He already knows you have potential. Now you just need to show him."
"But what if—"
"No 'what ifs,'" Chen Wei interrupted gently. "Just go in there and be yourself. Be the actress I know you are."
[Emotional Support Provided]
[Tang Xin Confidence: +50%]
Tang Xin took a deep breath, then impulsively hugged Chen Wei tightly. "Thank you. For everything. For believing in me when no one else did."
Chen Wei hugged her back, feeling her trembling slightly. "You're going to be amazing."
When Tang Xin was called in, Chen Wei waited outside, working on his phone. After thirty minutes, the door opened and Tang Xin emerged—her face was flushed, her eyes bright with excitement.
"He loved it!" she said, grabbing Chen Wei's hands. "He said I was exactly what he was looking for! He wants me for the lead role!"
"That's fantastic!" Chen Wei said, genuinely happy for her.
"He said we'll start shooting in two weeks! This is really happening, Chen Wei! I'm going to be in a real movie!" Tang Xin was practically bouncing with joy.
Director Wang Ming emerged behind her—a man in his forties with an artistic air. "Mr. Chen? Thank you for recommending Tang Xin. She's a real find. Natural talent, authentic emotion—exactly what this film needs."
"I'm glad you see her potential," Chen Wei said, shaking his hand.
"Would you like to discuss the production? I'm always looking for investors, and with your new company..."
They spent the next twenty minutes discussing the film's budget, timeline, and distribution plans. Chen Wei's Business Genius skill analyzed everything, seeing the potential.
"I'll invest ¥5 million for a 20% stake in the film," Chen Wei offered. "Plus, Starlight Entertainment will handle Tang Xin's publicity and promotion."
Director Wang's eyes widened. "That's... incredibly generous. You're sure?"
"I invest in talent and vision," Chen Wei said. "You have both."
[Investment Made: -¥5,000,000]
[Projected Return: ¥15-20 million if film succeeds]
[Tang Xin's Career: Secured]
After the meeting concluded, Tang Xin walked with Chen Wei to his car, still glowing with excitement.
"I can't believe this is real," she said. "A lead role, in a real film, with a respected director. And you invested in it? Chen Wei, that's—"
"Smart business," Chen Wei said. "The film has potential, and your performance will make it successful. Everyone benefits."
Tang Xin stopped walking and turned to face him. "Can I tell you something?"
"Of course."
"I know you're with Xiao Yue. I know you love her. And I respect that, I really do." Tang Xin's voice was soft, vulnerable. "But I need you to know that you've changed my life. You saw potential in me when everyone else saw nothing. You believed in me, supported me, made my dreams possible. And I... I care about you deeply. More than I probably should."
[Tang Xin Favorability: 89/100 → 94/100]
[Status: Devoted → Deeply In Love (Unrequited)]
Chen Wei felt his chest tighten with sympathy. Tang Xin was a beautiful, talented woman, and her feelings were genuine. But he loved Xiao Yue.
"Tang Xin," he said gently. "You're an incredible person. Talented, kind, and you're going to be a star. Any man would be lucky to have your affection. But—"
"But you love her," Tang Xin finished, her smile sad but accepting. "I know. And that's actually one of the things I love about you—your loyalty. You don't waver, you don't lie, you don't play games. You're honest and true."
She reached up and kissed his cheek softly. "Thank you for everything, Chen Wei. And don't worry—I'm not going to make this complicated. Your friendship and professional support mean too much to risk. But I needed you to know how I feel."
"I'm honored," Chen Wei said honestly. "And Tang Xin? You deserve someone who will love you as completely as you deserve. That person is out there."
"Maybe," Tang Xin said with a wistful smile. "But right now, I'm just grateful to have you in my life, even as friends."
[System Note: Tang Xin has maturely accepted the situation. Her feelings remain but won't cause relationship complications. This is ideal management of romantic interest.]
As Tang Xin walked away to catch her ride, Chen Wei felt both relief and a strange melancholy. He had three women in his life now—Xiao Yue, who he loved completely; Lin Yue, who challenged and fascinated him; and Tang Xin, whose unrequited feelings were both flattering and heartbreaking.
His phone buzzed. Xiao Yue.
Xiao Yue: "Just finished classes! Zhang Mei is amazing—she scared off some guys who were bothering me! 😄 Coming home soon! Love you! ❤️"
Chen Wei smiled, his heart warming.
Chen Wei: "Can't wait. I love you too. See you soon."
Another message came in. Lin Yue.
Lin Yue: "Found something interesting in Zhang family's business records. Can't discuss over text but it's big. Tomorrow night, after our dinner, I'll share what we found. They're in trouble. -LY"
Chen Wei: "You're incredible. Thank you."
Lin Yue: "Save your gratitude for tomorrow night. I plan to collect it personally. 😉"
Chen Wei's pulse quickened at the implication.
[7:00 PM - Jianghai Bay Villa]
Chen Wei arrived home to find Xiao Yue in the kitchen with Wang Lei, both laughing as they attempted to cook dinner.
"Chen Wei!" Xiao Yue called out when she heard him. "We're making dinner! Well, trying to. Wang Lei keeps eating the ingredients."
"I'm quality testing!" Wang Lei protested, munching on vegetables.
Chen Wei walked over and kissed Xiao Yue's forehead, wrapping his arms around her waist from behind. "How was your day?"
"Good! Weird having a bodyguard, but Zhang Mei is actually really cool. She told me stories about her military training." Xiao Yue turned in his arms. "How was Tang Xin's audition?"
"She got the role," Chen Wei said. "She was amazing."
"That's wonderful! You're changing lives, you know that?" Xiao Yue said, touching his face gently. "Tang Xin, the company employees, even me. You make everything better."
"You make everything better," Chen Wei corrected, kissing her softly.
"Okay, can you two not be disgustingly cute while I'm trying to cook?" Wang Lei complained good-naturedly.
They ate dinner together—the three of them plus Liu Han and Zhang Mei, who'd been invited to join them. It felt almost like a family, and Chen Wei realized this was what wealth had truly given him: not just luxury, but the ability to protect and support the people he cared about.
After dinner, Chen Wei and Xiao Yue retreated to the master bedroom. She showered first, then Chen Wei, and when he emerged, she was sitting on the bed in a silky nightgown, looking nervous.
"Chen Wei? Can we talk about something?"
"Of course," he said, sitting beside her.
"The bodyguards, the threats from Zhang family, your ex-girlfriend causing problems..." Xiao Yue took his hand. "This is a lot of drama. Way more than a normal relationship. Are you sure you want me involved in all this? Because I can—"
"Stop," Chen Wei interrupted gently but firmly. "Xiao Yue, look at me."
She met his eyes, her own showing vulnerability.
"You are not drama. You are not a burden. You are the best thing that's ever happened to me," Chen Wei said intensely. "The Zhang family situation is not about you—it's about them being unable to accept that I won. And yes, there will probably be more challenges ahead. But I want to face them with you by my side. Understand?"
Tears spilled down Xiao Yue's cheeks. "I just don't want to be the reason you get hurt."
"You're the reason I fight," Chen Wei said, wiping her tears. "Everything I'm building, everything I'm becoming—it's all better because you're part of it."
Xiao Yue launched herself at him, kissing him desperately. "I love you so much. So, so much."
"I love you too," Chen Wei murmured against her lips.
They made love that night with intense passion, their connection deepening even further. Every touch spoke of promises, every kiss sealed their commitment to each other.
Afterward, as they lay tangled together, Xiao Yue traced patterns on Chen Wei's chest.
"Tomorrow you have dinner with Lin Yue, right?" she asked softly.
Chen Wei tensed slightly. "It's a business dinner. She's my lawyer, and she's been investigating the Zhang family for me."
"I know," Xiao Yue said. "And I trust you completely, Chen Wei. I just... Lin Yue is very beautiful and sophisticated. I can't help but feel a little insecure sometimes."
[Relationship Challenge: Jealousy/Insecurity]
[Handle carefully to maintain trust]
Chen Wei turned to face her fully. "Xiao Yue, you have nothing to be insecure about. Yes, Lin Yue is beautiful and accomplished. But you are the woman I love. You are the one I want to build a life with. Lin Yue is important professionally, but you are essential to my heart. Do you understand the difference?"
"I think so," Xiao Yue said, though doubt still lingered in her eyes.
"Let me be clearer," Chen Wei said, pulling her close. "Lin Yue challenges my mind. But you complete my soul. There's no competition, because you've already won. You had my heart from the moment we met at that restaurant."
[Perfect Response!]
[Xiao Yue's Insecurity: Resolved]
[Trust Level: Strengthened]
Xiao Yue smiled, her doubts fading. "You always know exactly what to say."
"I just tell the truth," Chen Wei said, kissing her forehead. "Now sleep. Tomorrow's a big day for both of us."
As Xiao Yue drifted off in his arms, Chen Wei stared at the ceiling, his mind churning.
Tomorrow night with Lin Yue could change everything. She was clearly interested in more than just business, and he'd be lying if he said he wasn't attracted to her. But he loved Xiao Yue completely.
How did other successful men handle this? Multiple women interested, complex relationships, loyalty versus opportunity?
[System Alert: Tomorrow's choices will have significant consequences]
[Remain true to your values. Honesty is always the best policy]
[Note: Managing multiple romantic interests requires transparency and respect. Deception will only lead to disaster]
Chen Wei sighed softly. He'd figure it out tomorrow.
For now, he had Xiao Yue safe in his arms, bodyguards protecting his home, and allies working to destroy his enemies.
The Zhang family wanted to hurt him through the people he loved?
They were about to learn that Chen Wei protected his own.
And revenge, when it came, would be absolute.