Lin Wannian sat at the far end of the conference room, calm and focused as her fingers skimmed through detailed financial reports. Her gaze was sharp as a blade, unwavering.
This was her first board meeting as the acting CEO of the Lin Group. It had only been three weeks since her return, yet she had already taken control of the situation—streamlining three departments and restructuring the finance division. Her decisiveness and authority had silenced many of the old guards who initially doubted her.
But she knew all too well—the real storm was only just beginning.
"Wannian, we need to reconsider the investment in the 'Starlight Plaza' project," said Wu Jianguo, the Chief Financial Officer, clearing his throat. He wore his usual conservative smile. "Though you have confidence, this is the largest investment the Lin Group has made in five years. The risk of failure is significant."
"I've had the risk control department review the assessment report three times," Lin Wannian replied evenly. Her tone was composed. "Moreover, if the Lin Group wants to maintain its position in the upcoming market reshuffle, this investment is a springboard, not a gamble."
Wu Jianguo's expression shifted slightly. Just as he was about to respond, a knock came from outside the door.
"A representative from Shen Group is here to see President Lin," the secretary whispered.
Lin Wannian's brows furrowed. "Who?"
"Shen Sihan."
The entire conference room fell into silence. Even the sound of breathing seemed to vanish.
Everyone knew—one of Lin Group's greatest rivals right now was none other than the Shen Group. And Shen Sihan—her ex-husband—was now on the opposing side.
"Let him wait," Lin Wannian said coldly. "This meeting isn't over."
The secretary hesitated for a moment, then nodded and left.
The meeting continued, though everyone's attention had clearly shifted. Only Lin Wannian remained composed, leading the discussion until the final agenda item was confirmed. Then she stood up and said simply, "Meeting adjourned."
She didn't go straight to the reception room.
Instead, she headed to the restroom.
Standing before the mirror, she gazed at her reflection—flawless makeup, a commanding presence—but her mind drifted to the dream she had the night before.
In the dream, Shen Sihan stood beneath a snow-filled sky, wearing a long coat. He reached out to touch her face, but as he neared, he blurred and grew distant.
She abruptly turned on the faucet, splashing cold water onto her face, trying to wash away the faint ripple of emotion inside her.
—
Five minutes later, in the reception room.
Shen Sihan sat on the sofa, dressed in a charcoal gray suit. He appeared composed, his long fingers gently tapping on a folder. His presence was still overwhelming, but when Lin Wannian walked in, he visibly reined it in.
"What are you doing here?" she asked, standing by the door, her tone steady.
"To discuss cooperation." Shen Sihan pushed the folder toward her. "We're interested in your 'Starlight Plaza' project."
Lin Wannian walked over and took the file. After glancing through it, she let out a soft chuckle. "Are you sure it's cooperation? Not just taking advantage of the situation?"
Shen Sihan looked up, eyes deep. "Wannian, I'm not your enemy."
She scoffed. "There's no 'we' anymore."
Silence fell between them.
"I didn't just come for Starlight," he said, suddenly rising and stepping closer. "I came… for you."
She took a step back, her gaze turning cold. "Shen Sihan, don't try to manipulate me with cheap emotions."
"I'm not being cheap," he said quietly. "I just… wanted to tell you I was wrong."
"You were indeed wrong," she said, locking eyes with him. "But that's in the past. I won't let the past hold me anymore."
She turned sharply, opening the door without hesitation—as if to send a guest on his way.
"Mr. Shen, if you truly want to cooperate, have your legal team send an official proposal. As for personal matters—I don't have time."
Shen Sihan didn't leave right away. He stood still, staring at her back, his eyes filled with a struggle he had never shown before.
Only after the door closed did he sigh softly… and let out a bitter laugh.
"So I really did take the wrong step."
—
Meanwhile, back in her office, Lin Wannian stood by the floor-to-ceiling window, looking out over the skyline of high-rises.
She was no longer the pampered heiress others once controlled.
Now, she was the true leader of the Lin Group.
As for Shen Sihan… she would neither forgive easily nor allow herself to be swayed.
But she also knew—the real battle had just begun.
She slowly lifted her chin, her gaze sharp, a faint smile curling her lips.
"Come on, Shen Sihan. Let's see who the real winner will be."