Morning: A Calm Before the Storm
The morning sun cast long shadows over the luxurious villa as Joshua sat in his private study, sipping a cup of finely brewed espresso. His mind was clear, sharp, already running simulations of how the business wager against Chen Ye would unfold.
His Master Negotiator skill granted him an edge, but this wasn't just about winning a deal—it was about making a statement.
Sung En's message from last night replayed in his mind.
Sung En: "Joshua, do you really need to take this bet?"
She hadn't outright told him to decline, but her tone carried a weight of concern.
Most people thought Sung En was just an opportunistic beauty—a woman who played to power. But Joshua had seen glimpses of something more. Behind the teasing and the playful arrogance, she was observant. Thoughtful. And perhaps, just a little bit worried.
His phone buzzed.
Sung En: "Meet me for brunch before your meeting with Chen Ye. I have something to say."
Joshua smirked.
Joshua: "What, are you worried about me?"
A pause. Then her reply:
Sung En: "Just shut up and meet me."
Brunch with Sung En – The Woman Behind the Mask
At an upscale rooftop restaurant, Sung En sat across from Joshua, her silver-white hair catching the morning light. Unlike her usual flirtatious demeanor, today her expression was serious.
"I've looked into Chen Ye," she started, setting down her coffee. "He's not just some rich heir throwing his weight around. He's ruthless in business. He's made competitors disappear."
Joshua raised an eyebrow. "Disappear?"
She sighed, leaning in slightly. "Not literally. But people who challenge him end up bankrupt, exiled from Shanghai's business elite, or worse… disgraced."
Joshua listened carefully. This wasn't just about money or a bet. Chen Ye was a player who knew how to use influence like a weapon.
Sung En tapped her fingers against the table, eyes narrowing. "I don't like that you're playing into his game. I don't like that he's using me as part of the wager."
Joshua took a sip of his coffee, his gaze steady on her. "Then don't worry. You won't be going anywhere with him."
She exhaled, annoyed at his confidence—but also reassured.
Still, she wasn't convinced. "Joshua… why are you taking this bet? You could have refused."
Joshua's smirk faded slightly, replaced with something more calculating.
"Because this isn't just about business." He leaned forward, voice dropping lower. "Chen Ye is testing me. Shanghai's elite is watching. If I walk away, it'll show weakness. And if I want Lim Group to dominate, I can't afford to be underestimated."
Sung En studied him for a long moment. Then, almost reluctantly, she muttered, "You're crazy."
Joshua chuckled. "Maybe. But you like that about me, don't you?"
She rolled her eyes but didn't deny it.
For the first time, Sung En realized her concern for him wasn't just about power plays—it was personal.
Afternoon: The Business Wager Begins
The Golden Summit Tower—one of Shanghai's most prestigious business centers—was the chosen venue for the deal.
Joshua arrived first, dressed in a sleek black tailored suit, exuding quiet dominance. He walked into the private boardroom, where Chen Ye was already waiting, along with his legal team and a few silent spectators.
Chen Ye smirked. "Glad you showed up, Chairman Lim. I was starting to think you'd back out."
Joshua took his seat, completely unfazed. "I don't back out. I win."
Chen Ye chuckled. "We'll see."
The Deal
The wager revolved around a high-stakes investment deal for a prime real estate development in downtown Shanghai. The goal? To outmaneuver the other in negotiation, securing the most favorable contract terms while making the other party lose face.
It wasn't just about money—it was about reputation.
Joshua scanned the documents in seconds, his mind processing the loopholes, the weaknesses. His Master Negotiator skill kicked in.
Chen Ye started first, using his usual cutthroat tactics—aggressive terms, strategic omissions, and financial traps.
His confidence was clear. He thought he had already won.
Then, it was Joshua's turn.
With precise counterpoints, he dismantled every clause, exposing the hidden fees, the risks, and turning each of Chen Ye's strengths into liabilities.
Within twenty minutes, the once-solid contract crumbled.
The spectators murmured in surprise. Even Chen Ye's own lawyer looked uneasy.
Chen Ye's smirk faltered. "You're well-prepared, I'll give you that."
Joshua leaned back, relaxed. "I don't come to lose."
A system notification appeared before his eyes:
[System Notification: Business Negotiation Success – Chen Ye Forced into Concession. Reputation +30. New Skill Unlocked: High-Stakes Strategy.]
Chen Ye clenched his jaw but forced a smile. He extended a hand, masking his frustration. "Congratulations, Chairman Lim."
Joshua shook it. But just before letting go, Chen Ye's grip tightened slightly.
"This isn't over," he murmured, so only Joshua could hear. "Enjoy your win—while it lasts."
Joshua smiled. "I always do."
Evening: Victory & Lingering Thoughts
Sung En waited at the Azure Club's rooftop bar, scrolling through her phone when she saw the news:
"Chairman Lim Triumphs Over Chen Ye in High-Stakes Deal."
She exhaled in relief but also unease. Joshua was attracting more attention than ever.
When he finally arrived, she greeted him with an exasperated look. "You really had to win that dramatically, huh?"
Joshua smirked. "Would you have preferred I lost?"
She scoffed. "Please. As if I'd want that."
A pause.
Then, quieter, "But I don't like how this paints a target on your back."
Joshua's expression softened slightly. She really was worried.
"I can handle it."
She sighed. "I know. But… just be careful, okay?"
For a moment, Joshua didn't reply. He simply reached out and took her hand.
It was a subtle gesture, but it was enough.
Sung En felt her heart skip slightly—but she didn't pull away.
For the first time, she wasn't just following power. She was falling for the man behind it.