The banquet ended in whispers. Lin Xinyi barely had time to breathe before a black car door shut behind her.
Mo Yichen sat opposite, his expression unreadable. The silence pressed like iron.
Finally, he spoke. "Why did you claim me?"
Her hands clenched in her lap. "If I didn't, they would've destroyed me."
His gaze sharpened. "So you plan to use me?"
She forced herself to meet his eyes. "And you? You didn't step in to play hero. You want something too."
A pause. His lips curved faintly. "Smart."
Her pulse raced. She hated how easily he unsettled her.
Mo Yichen leaned forward, voice low. "Then let's be clear. You'll be my wife—in name only. No one outside will know. In return, I'll protect you. But betray me, and I'll make you regret being reborn."
Her chest tightened at his words. He knew nothing of her second chance, yet it felt like he was staring straight into her soul.
She swallowed hard. "Fine. A deal."
He extended his hand. "Seal it."
Her fingers trembled before she placed her hand in his. His grip was firm, unyielding—like chains closing around her wrist.
The car screeched to a stop. The driver's voice cut through the tense silence. "President Mo, reporters. They've blocked the road."
Flashes of cameras lit up the windows. Voices shouted outside:
"Who's the woman with President Mo?"
"Is she his lover?"
Lin Xinyi's stomach dropped. If they saw her face, everything would spiral out of control.
Mo Yichen's eyes narrowed. "Get down."
Before she could react, his arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her against him. His breath brushed her ear as his voice rumbled low:
"Remember, wife. Once we start this game… there's no turning back."