The limousine pulled up to a towering black iron gate that opened silently, revealing the sprawling Zheng estate. It was a mansion fit for a king — cold, imposing, and utterly silent.
Lina's fingers trembled as the driver opened the door. She stepped out into the chill evening air, clutching her thin shawl tighter around her shoulders.
Inside, the grand foyer was vast and empty, illuminated only by the pale glow of chandeliers. The silence was deafening.
Leon walked ahead without a word, his footsteps echoing off marble floors. Lina followed, her heart pounding with a mixture of fear and uncertainty.
"This will be your room," he said abruptly, stopping in front of a heavy oak door.
She nodded silently, biting her lip to stop it from trembling.
Leon's gaze softened — just for a moment.
"You're not a prisoner," he said quietly. "But don't expect kindness."
Then, without waiting for a response, he turned on his heel and left.
The door clicked shut behind her.
Alone, Lina sank onto the edge of the plush bed.
She thought about the contract, the coldness of this place, and the man who had just left her here like a stranger.
But deep inside, a small flicker of hope ignited — maybe, just maybe, there was more to him than the rumors and his icy reputation.
For now, all she could do was survive the night.
And the days to come.