Jenny's words left Jaden slightly shaken.
Was this woman confessing her feelings for him?
How was that possible? They'd only just met a few days ago, and already Jenny claimed to have fallen for him?
Jaden replayed his own plans to manipulate Jenny in his mind, dredging up every bit of psychology he'd studied in college to dissect the truth behind her words.
Initially, he'd assumed Jenny was a cold and aloof woman and had steeled himself for a prolonged campaign to win her trust. Yet after encountering her at the resort, everything seemed almost too easy.
Could she really have fallen for him? Or was she playing her own game, using him as a stepping stone? Perhaps she was simply tired of Henry Lin and wanted a change.
It wouldn't be surprising. After all, the image Jaden had carefully crafted was that of a wealthy, handsome bachelor, designed to attract women like her.
"Well... don't you think we don't know each other well enough yet?" Jaden asked awkwardly.
"I think I know everything I need to know. And I've already told you about myself. What more do you want to know? Or... are you asking about a different kind of *knowing*?" Jenny's eyes sparkled with mischief, her demeanor shifting seamlessly from serious to teasingly seductive.
"No, no, I mean things like personality, hobbies, and... other interests," Jaden quickly clarified.
"Oh, so you're the slow-burn type? That's fine. Getting to know each other better is important. After all, I'm also looking for someone I can rely on for the long term - if you don't mind me, that is." Jenny smiled faintly.
"No, I don't mean that. I just feel your... um, boyfriend seems pretty formidable. Won't trying to win you over cause problems for me?" Jaden asked cautiously.
"He's accomplished, sure, but you're right. He's the possessive type. If he finds out I'm with you, it could get messy," Jenny admitted after some thought.
"I see... so I'll need to tread carefully," Jaden muttered, forcing a laugh.
He recalled Luna Zhou warning him about similar complications. If Henry Lin discovered he was meddling with his woman, Jaden might not escape without repercussions. And given Henry Lin's status compared to his own true identity, any retaliation could only be silently endured.
"What's wrong? Are you scared?" Jenny asked, her expression unreadable.
Jaden's heart raced, but he kept his cool. Letting any sign of fear slip now could be disastrous. Smiling slightly, he took a calm sip of wine before replying. "It's not fear - just pragmatism. It's best to avoid unnecessary conflicts, especially in business. The circles we move in aren't that large. Burning bridges could cost me future opportunities."
"So... you're saying you don't want to get involved?" Jenny asked, a hint of disappointment flashing across her face.
"Not exactly. I built my success from the ground up and haven't shied away from challenges. But as a businessman, I weigh risks and rewards. It has to be worth it." Jaden responded confidently.
"Oh, I see. So it all depends on how much I mean to you?" Jenny's voice was soft, her eyes shimmering with emotion.
"Exactly. I'm not one for empty flattery. I'll be honest - our time together has been brief, and we barely know each other. While I do find you appealing, it's not enough to make me act recklessly. What about you?" Jaden countered, watching her closely.
Jenny laughed lightly. "You're refreshingly honest. Most men would have spun sweet lies by now just to bed me. But you're different, and I like that. It feels good to talk openly for once, without all the pretense. Relationships should be about mutual respect and understanding."
"Well, I prefer a partner who's not just a pretty face, but also a capable and supportive companion," Jaden replied with a smile.
"In that case, I think I fit the bill. I hold a CFA certification, you know. Plus, I know many of Henry Lin's clients. If you ever need an introduction, I'd be happy to help," Jenny said, her confidence evident.
"You're impressive, no doubt. But wouldn't introducing me to his clients be sabotaging him? And if you left me for someone else in the future, wouldn't I face the same fate?" Jaden asked, frowning slightly as if genuinely concerned.
Jenny hesitated, then said seriously, "You're overthinking it. If you treat me well, I'd be devoted to you and our family. I'd never betray the man I truly love."
"Hmm... interesting," Jaden murmured before breaking into laughter.
"What's so funny? Don't you believe me?" Jenny asked, puzzled.
"No, no, I believe you. I just think this conversation feels a bit odd - like we're on a blind date or something. How many couples have such candid exchanges about their intentions?" Jaden teased.
Jenny laughed along. "True, but I prefer honesty. Why play games when it comes to relationships?"
"To our potential future together, then," Jaden said, raising his glass.
Jenny clinked her glass against his, echoing, "To us."
Deep down, Jaden couldn't help but sigh at her earnestness. Jenny, with all her beauty, likely hoped for stability and respect - a far cry from her current life of catering to powerful men's whims.
As they wrapped up their meal and strolled around the resort, Jaden eventually walked Jenny back to her room. At the door, she leaned close, adjusting his tie as she coyly asked, "So... are we really parting ways for the night? Don't you want to... get to know me a little better?"