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Chapter 15 — So She Mistook the Wrong Fiancé

After accidentally walking in on her fiancé changing clothes post-shower—and even catching a glimpse of his well-toned body—Lin Keying was so mortified she just wanted to flee the scene.

But his simple command of “Come here” rooted her to the spot. Turning around cautiously, she didn’t even know where to rest her gaze.

His face was undeniably handsome, but as soon as her eyes drifted downward, they landed on the man’s bathrobe… and immediately, that earlier image sprang to mind.

“Sit,” Cheng Wanting said calmly, only glancing at the top of her head. “Since you’re already here, you might as well get some more practice in.”

With that, the man walked out of the room. Moments later, when he returned to the study, he was fully dressed.

The black shirt was loose yet sharp, and the black trousers elongated his already long frame. He casually sat down next to Lin Keying and began tutoring her.

This impromptu study session—one she had brought upon herself—was mentally exhausting, and Lin Keying couldn’t keep her focus.

A faint pine scent lingered in the air, deep and soothing like water-soaked wood. It quietly surrounded her, while his cool, composed voice seemed to travel straight into her ears and down every nerve ending, causing her entire body to tingle in response.

She couldn’t help sneaking a glance at her fiancé. Usually so impeccably styled, he now looked completely different post-shower.

Dressed in casual home wear, his usual stiff hair was softened, and even his aura had mellowed.

And thinking back to that fleeting moment… This man worked in an office every day, yet his body was that good? Each ab muscle was well-defined!

Not the kind of flashy, overly bulked muscles gym rats had—his were leaner, sharper, raw, and full of primal strength.

Lin Keying had been a corporate worker in her past life too, but she’d never seen someone so devoted to work and yet in such good shape.

How on earth did he train?

Lost in thought, she didn’t realize Cheng Wanting had noticed. Seemingly used to her zoning out, he calmly tapped the desk with his knuckle and asked, “What are you thinking about?”

“Ah?” Caught daydreaming during study time, Lin Keying blurted out faster than she could think, “I was just wondering how someone who sits in an office all day can have such a great body—”

Realizing what she’d just said, she abruptly stopped mid-sentence, shot to her feet, and stammered, “I-I didn’t say or think anything! I’m leaving!”

All that was left at the study door was the sight of her fleeing in panic.

Cheng Wanting watched her retreating back and quietly curled his lips into a faint smile.

——

The next day, the blazing sun still dominated the skies over Hong Kong. Early in the morning, Yang Minghui arrived at the Mid-Levels villa to report the latest updates to Cheng Wanting:

“Young Master, last night Miss Lin went to check out a new residential property developed by Hongji Enterprises, which is why she got back so late.”

“She went house hunting?” Cheng Wanting asked as he fastened his tie and shrugged on his suit jacket, stepping out of the house.

“Yes,” Yang confirmed. He had arranged for someone to speak with the property agent who met Lin Keying last night. “Apparently, Miss Lin kept trying to persuade the owner of Ho Kee Dessert Stall to buy a place, saying everyone should have a home of their own. She herself also seemed quite interested in buying.”

Cheng Wanting didn’t comment and simply got into the car.

Sensing the moment, Yang shifted topics and reported on business matters: “Tonight’s cruise banquet in Victoria Harbour is being held by the Governor’s office to welcome representatives from Britain. All major corporate leaders are expected to attend. I’ve heard that Liu Zhigao will have an in-depth conversation with HSBC tonight.”

Cheng Wanting nodded. “I’ve already spoken with Director Yang. Once HSBC and Liu Zhigao come to an agreement, we’ll acquire the 18 million Kowloon Wharf shares he’s holding.”

“Yes, sir.” Yang was about to go over the three meetings scheduled for the day when suddenly, Cheng Wanting spoke again.

“The new villa development at Mid-Levels—has it been completed?”

“Yes. It’s developed by Hongji, and it’ll go on sale in the next two months.”

“Tell them to reserve one for…” He interlocked his long fingers, voice indifferent. “Actually, never mind. Let Miss Lin choose one herself when the time comes.”

Yang: “…!”

Startled beyond words, Yang Minghui looked up at his boss, who remained completely composed—like he was casually deciding what to eat for lunch. Anyone who didn’t know better would never guess he had just offered a luxury home worth several million like it was nothing.

Mentioning Miss Lin reminded Yang of something—the ship scheduled to take her back to the mainland tomorrow. He braced himself and asked, “Young Master, about Miss Lin’s departure on tomorrow’s ferry…”

Before he could finish, Cheng Wanting shot him a look that instantly silenced him.

Later, when they arrived at the company and Cheng Wanting went into the boardroom for a shareholders’ meeting, Yang sought out the manager of Huanyu Group’s shipping division.

“Cancel Miss Lin’s seat on tomorrow’s ferry to the mainland.”

++++

Thinking about her departure back to the mainland tomorrow, Lin Keying was elated.

Although she had spent nearly a month in Hong Kong after time-traveling here, and lived quite comfortably—residing in a villa, enjoying authentic local food, and wearing fashionable outfits—she still missed home.

Especially knowing she’d be leaving with 800,000 HKD in compensation for breaking off the engagement, her future looked easy and secure.

The only regret was that she was still short 200,000 to match the original novel’s full payout of one million. So far, she hadn’t triggered any events to unlock the rest.

With only one day left, she had no idea whether she’d be able to increase the amount.

Despite her hopes, fate wasn’t cooperating.

Uncle Zhong mentioned that the Young Master had a major business event tonight and likely wouldn’t return to the villa at all.

Lin Keying sighed—well, not everything can be perfect.

That evening, she was invited to Auntie He’s home for a farewell dinner.

The whole family was grateful to her, knowing she was leaving the next day. They prepared a feast, and even Dr. Huo showed up.

“Keying, come visit Hong Kong again sometime.”

“Yeah, now that travel between both sides is easier, it’ll only get more convenient.”

Even the teenage Tingting was reluctant to say goodbye to her older friend. “Keying-jie, come back and visit me! We can watch dramas, movies, and concerts together—I’ll treat you!”

“Of course,” Lin Keying replied warmly. She, too, felt a little sad; after all, she had made fond memories in Hong Kong.

Before she left, the He family gifted her a bag of local snacks. Tingting even used her own money to buy a pair of pretty golden seashell earrings.

“Keying-jie, this is all I can afford right now. One dollar earrings. But someday when I’m rich, I’ll buy you ones from a real jewelry store!”

Dr. Huo chimed in at just the right moment. “Or… how about I buy them?”

Lin Keying gratefully accepted their gifts and in return gave each of them a tea set she’d purchased at the mall.

After dinner, the sun began to set. Dr. Huo mentioned that there would be the biggest fireworks show of the year at Victoria Harbour that evening, and the group of young people was eager to go.

Lin Keying, Dr. Huo, and the He children took a taxi to the harbor.

The long coastline stretched like a finely drawn scroll. The sunset bathed the sea in golden light, reflecting the high-rise buildings across the water—a truly breathtaking sight.

Resting her hands on the railing, Lin Keying let the gentle sea breeze tousle her hair. It felt peaceful and free.

Tingting and Aqiang, both high schoolers, ran about in the crowd, full of youthful energy.

The occasion was a grand fireworks show organized by the Governor’s office to welcome representatives from Country Y. Luxury yachts and several cruise ships would be sailing through the harbor, offering close-up views of the glittering cityscape and the bursting fireworks.

Thousands of citizens gathered along the shoreline railings, hoping to witness the splendor of the city’s grandest firework display.

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As night fell, the vivid orange-red hues that once painted the sky faded into deep, inky darkness that now stretched across the heavens.

Huo Huachen had pulled some strings to get tickets for the Star Ferry, bringing Lin Keying and the two kids aboard.

Tingting and Aqiang had never been on such a cruise ship before. They were so excited that they were momentarily speechless, their curious eyes darting around to take in everything.

Lin Keying stood on this retro 1980s ferry, watching the lit-up high-rises against the dark sky, their reflections glittering across the harbor—a beautiful view that moved her deeply.

Other cruise ships occasionally passed by, and though they were strangers, they were all part of the stunning Victoria Harbour night view. It was an entirely new experience for her.

The children ran around excitedly, pointing out different sights. Huo Huachen approached Lin Keying on the deck with two champagne flutes.
“Have a sip,” he offered.

“Thank you.” Lin Keying, dressed in a flowing red gown, let the sea breeze billow her skirt. She accepted the glass casually and took a light sip. The taste was sweet and refreshing.

Standing beside her, Huo Huachen finally expressed his thoughts.

“Keying.” They had only known each other for less than a month, yet their bond felt much deeper. He was saddened by her firm decision to leave Hong Kong for the mainland. “Is there really nothing in Hong Kong worth staying for?”

Her wavy hair danced in the wind as she tucked a few strands behind her ear, revealing her delicate, fair side profile. Lin Keying smiled gently and turned to her friend:
“Dr. Huo, my time in Hong Kong was unexpected, but I’ve truly enjoyed every bit of it. Still, going back to the mainland was always my plan. As nice as Hong Kong is, I haven’t found a reason compelling enough to make me stay.”

Huo Huachen, dressed in a checkered suit, with a handsome face and slightly curled hair tousled by the wind, replied,
“Can I not be that reason? Keying, I really li—”

She cut him off with a bright smile, extending her hand toward him. “I’m very glad to have made a good friend like you. Nice to meet you.”

Huo Huachen could only smile helplessly and shake her hand. “OK. But if you change your mind, remember to find me.”

Lin Keying smiled sweetly. Just then, a giant luxury cruise ship appeared on the sea, making all the other ferries around it look minuscule in comparison.

“When you find a girlfriend, I’ll treat you to a meal,” she teased.

The two young people shared a laugh on the Star Ferry deck, unaware that their handshake and smile had been noticed from across the water—onboard the luxury cruise.

“President Cheng, I understand your point. Crescent Bay is something President Liu is determined to get, while Kowloon Wharf is surely in your pocket,” said Director Yang from HSBC, holding a wine glass as he chatted with Cheng Wanting, the head of Huanyu Group, on the deck.

Smaller ships passed by slowly. When they came close, you could catch a glimpse of the people aboard.

Director Yang noticed Cheng Wanting gazing intensely at one of the nearby ferries, his brows furrowing ever so slightly—though the emotion quickly vanished.

“Director Yang, I’ll be counting on you to mediate this matter,” Cheng Wanting said, raising his glass. “A win-win-win outcome would benefit Hong Kong’s development too.”

Just then, Cheng Wanting’s father, Cheng Guanjie, and HSBC’s Director Li, who had brought his daughter along, joined the group. After a brief exchange of greetings, Director Li smiled and said,
“Young and capable—President Cheng can now rest and recover. Unlike my Siqi, who just returned from studying abroad and still needs guidance.”

Cheng Guanjie waved his hand with a cheerful grin.
“Wanting still has a lot to learn and needs guidance from all of you. But from what I see, Siqi is smart and driven—she’ll surely take your place someday.”

Cheng Wanting remained noncommittal. “Director Li, you flatter me. It would be HSBC’s loss if you were to step down.”

“Siqi, you met Wanting when you were little, remember? If you have any questions, you can ask your Wanting-ge.” Director Li smiled to the others. “I’m old-fashioned. Young people will have more to talk about.”

Everyone chuckled politely. Cheng Wanting, however, simply nodded without much reaction.

Standing nearby, Yang Minghui, Cheng Wanting’s assistant, observed the business crowd clinking glasses and exchanging pleasantries. He silently worried about his boss’s stomach—these kinds of events weren’t his favorite.

Especially now that Director Li had brought his daughter along again. It was obvious he still wanted to push the marriage alliance forward.

Yang Minghui kept an eye on his boss, ready to “rescue” him the moment he gave a signal—using a work excuse, of course.

Sure enough, Cheng Wanting glanced at him subtly. Yang Minghui quickly approached and said,
“Sir, the director of Hongji Industrial would like to speak with you.”

After a brief apology to the HSBC directors, Cheng Wanting left—he wasn’t particularly concerned about his own father.

As they reached a quieter corner of the deck, with music and chatter fading into the background, Yang Minghui was about to take credit for his timely intervention when he heard:

“Go to that Star Ferry and bring Miss Lin over.”

“…Excuse me?” Yang blinked.

Miss Lin? She’s on the other ferry? And we’re going to bring her here?!

…

The humid sea breeze cooled the summer night. Huo Huachen chatted happily with Lin Keying, the tension between them gone. The kids begged him to go get cake from the cabin.

Lin Keying was left alone on the deck, admiring the fireworks bursting in the sky—so bright and colorful, breathtakingly beautiful. Just as she began to feel truly at peace, a familiar voice reached her ears.

“Miss Lin, Young Master wants you on the other ship.” Yang Minghui couldn’t believe it either—even at such an exclusive, high-level business event, Cheng Wanting wanted Lin Keying present.

All the tycoons that brought dates tonight had either official wives or long-term girlfriends.

Lin Keying glanced across the water at the massive luxury cruise ship—surely it was the private banquet to welcome the visiting dignitaries from Country Y. Could she actually go and see it up close?

…

From Star Ferry to luxury cruise, Lin Keying followed Yang Minghui aboard, passing freely through each level until she was surrounded by opulence.

Everyone was in formal attire, and the guests were all powerful figures in Hong Kong. Music filled the air; the world glittered around her.

Yang Minghui looked around for Cheng Wanting and finally spotted him on the lower deck’s hallway—standing with Li Siqi.

A disaster in the making!

He quickly blocked the view and ushered Lin Keying to a private lounge.

But Lin Keying had already caught a glimpse of her fiancé standing with a tall, elegant woman. They looked quite matched.

A suspicion rose in her mind: Maybe he already has a girlfriend and just wants to quickly settle the remaining ¥200,000 with her.

Daughter of HSBC’s Director Li, Li Siqi was born into privilege and had a superior air about her. Wearing a silver gown, she said boldly to Cheng Wanting:

“My father and yours both support a marriage alliance. You’re handsome, tall—I think you’d make a good match. Why don’t we team up? We get married to solidify our families, but live our own lives separately.”

Cheng Wanting didn’t even blink. “Miss Li, I’m not interested. You can find someone else.”

He turned and walked away coldly, which, oddly, piqued Li Siqi’s interest. She stared at his retreating figure with a flicker of amusement.

“Young Master, Miss Lin is here,” Yang reported, bringing her to his private lounge for the night.

“Mm.” Cheng Wanting nodded and waved him away, entering the lounge alone.

It wasn’t as big as a five-star hotel, but the private lounge was luxuriously decorated. There was a 4.5-foot bed, a small sofa and table, wine and glasses, and a porcelain vase of bright red roses.

Still, the roses paled in comparison to Lin Keying, who stood in a red fitted dress. A thin strap looped around her neck, revealing her flawless shoulders and collarbone. Her fair skin glowed against the rich red. The high waistline and flared skirt looked like a blooming flower.

Even her gold shell earrings swayed with her steps.

Cheng Wanting’s gaze dropped to her right hand at her side, remembering the scene on the ferry earlier.

“Young Master,” Lin Keying began, still thinking of the ¥200,000, “Was that woman just now the one you love?”

Cheng Wanting hadn’t even gotten a chance to voice his opinion on the annoying Huo Huachen, and now Lin Keying was questioning him about Li Siqi?

He didn’t hesitate. “No.”

“I don’t believe you!” Lin Keying’s eyes brimmed with hurt, as if her fiancé had fallen for another.

She slowly stepped closer, her red gown brushing against his black suit—crimson and black interweaving.

A faint scent lingered between them, subtle but powerful, pulling him in.

Her soft breath caressed his throat as her red lips moved.
He looked down at her, her eyes clear, her lips flushed and dewy with sadness.

“I have nothing going on with her…” he said, voice lower and softer than usual, his back slightly bent toward her.

“You don’t have to lie to me,” she whispered.

Then, acting on her plan, she boldly threw herself into his arms, wrapped her arms around his waist, and murmured shyly,
“…Husband.”

At once, she felt his body tense—rock-hard like steel.

For the first time, Cheng Wanting felt his whole body ignite, her soft frame pressed against his unyielding heat.

His breathing grew heavier. Just as he lifted his hand to pull her closer, she spoke again:

“Our engagement is ending soon. I shouldn’t have called you that—sorry. Don’t worry…”
She raised her head to look at him.
“After this, I won’t cling to you. I’ll remember that I shouldn’t have feelings for you. Once it’s over, I’ll just call you ‘Brother Songxian.’”

She waited silently, hoping this display of understanding would trigger guilt and, ideally, a final ¥200,000 payout.

But nothing happened.

Seconds passed. The air turned tense, even dangerous.

She sighed to herself. If this emotional performance didn’t work, she’d accept it—as long as the ¥800,000 was safe.

Just as she started to step back and leave the awkward moment behind, a strong hand suddenly grabbed her waist and shoved her firmly into his chest.

Startled, Lin Keying looked up—only to meet a storm in Cheng Wanting’s eyes.

His usual calm was replaced by something unreadable, intense.

His long fingers gripped her chin, slowly lowering his face until their noses almost touched, breaths mingling.

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