From Contract to Forever
This villa was the place Dylan and I had carefully prepared for our wedding; every detail embodied my devotion and hopes.
But now, there was someone here who should never have been.
Dylan Lynn held Mia Scott's hand as they walked ahead, their intertwined fingertips like a slender needle, slowly piercing my heart.
"Mia, look at this greenhouse," his voice was so gentle it seemed to drip with tenderness. "You always said you loved sunflowers, so I specially had them replanted."
I stood in the shadow by the greenhouse door, watching this scene, my nails digging almost painfully into my palms.
Sunlight streamed through the glass ceiling, draping their entwined figures in a golden glow.
Mia Scott tilted her head, smiling with eyes full of dependence: "Dylan, this place is truly beautiful. Can we often bask in the sun here from now on?"
"Of course." Dylan Lynn lifted his hand to gently stroke her hair, a gesture both natural and intimate.
Mia rose on tiptoe and lightly kissed Dylan's cheek.
Dylan paused for a moment, then laughed aloud, pulling her into his embrace: "You little rascal."
I could no longer hold back and quickly turned, striding upstairs toward the bedroom.
The moment I closed the door, laughter drifted from the swimming pool—Mia's laughter, clearer and clearer with each passing second, as if deliberately reminding me that this place no longer belongs to me.
Leaning against the door, tears finally slipped down my cheeks.
Every detail of this villa was crafted by my own hands, yet now it has become their stage to flaunt their love.
I slowly walked to the window and gazed upon the sunflowers blooming in the yard.
Those golden blossoms gleamed under the sunlight, as if cruelly mocking my innocence and folly.
Three years ago, Dylan Lynn and I chose this land together.
He promised to give me the warmest home.
Back then, I naively believed we would spend the rest of our lives here.
But reality dealt me the heaviest blow.
The phone suddenly vibrated—a message from my close friend: "Lydia, are you okay? I heard Mia Scott has moved in?"
I stared at the screen, my fingers frozen over the keyboard, unsure of how to respond.
In the end, I simply typed two words: "It's nothing."
Footsteps echoed outside the door, drawing nearer and nearer.
I hastily wiped away my tears and steadied my emotions.
The door creaked open, and Mia Scott peeked in, her face wearing an innocent smile: "Lydia, you're here? Dylan said you might be resting and asked me not to disturb you."
I gave a faint smile: "It's alright, I was just about to head downstairs."
Mia Scott seemed not to notice the distance in my tone; instead, she said warmly, 'That's wonderful! I made some snacks. Would you like to try them?'
I followed her downstairs and saw Dylan Lynn sitting in the living room, reading the newspaper.
He glanced up at me with an indifferent gaze, as if we were nothing more than ordinary roommates.
'You didn't go to the company today?' he asked casually.
'Nothing much going on at the company,' I replied, my voice so calm even I was surprised.
Mia carefully placed the snacks in front of me. 'Lydia, try the tiramisu I made. Dylan said it's delicious.'
I picked up the fork and took a gentle bite.
The cloying sweetness melted in my mouth, yet it could not dispel the bitterness deep within my heart.
Dylan Lynn put down the newspaper and said to Mia Scott, "This afternoon, let's go see the newly arrived furniture. Didn't you say you wanted to change the curtains in the master bedroom?"
Mia Scott nodded happily, completely unaware of my tightly clenched hands.
I stood up. "You two go ahead. I suddenly remembered I have some work to attend to."
Dylan frowned. "It's so late, what work do you still have to do?"
"A sudden issue came up that I need to deal with." I turned away, without looking back at them.
Back in the room, I opened my laptop but couldn't focus on a single word.
Sunlight filtered through the sheer curtains, casting light onto the photo frame on the desk — a picture of us taken in the villa's garden, our smiles bright and carefree.
I gently traced the image of myself, suddenly realizing that the innocent and blissful Lydia Shaw might have vanished forever.
Before the morning alarm rang, my phone vibrated once.
Groggily, I opened my eyes and checked my phone; it was an urgent email from the company — the Shaw Group's cash flow was in trouble, and new financing had to be secured immediately.
My drowsiness disappeared instantly, and I sat up straight.
The Shaw Group is my father's lifelong dedication; I absolutely cannot let it be destroyed by my own hands.
After washing up, I changed into a sharp suit and went downstairs to have breakfast.
Only Dylan Lynn and Mia Scott were in the dining room.
"Morning." I tried to keep my voice calm.
Dylan didn't even look up, busily peeling an egg for Mia: "There's bread on the table. Heat the milk yourself."
Mia glanced at me, her eyes holding a barely perceptible hint of provocation: "Lydia, are you going to the company today? Dylan said he'd accompany me to the botanical garden."
I tightened my grip on the milk cup, offering no response to her words.
Breakfast ended in silence. I grabbed my bag and prepared to leave.
"Wait a moment.""Dylan Lynn finally spoke, but not about me. 'You don't need to come back to cook tonight; I'm taking Mia out to eat.'"
"Understood," I replied softly, pushing open the door and briskly walking toward the parking lot.
In the rearview mirror, the villa's gate slowly closed, like an impenetrable barrier, severing me completely from that once love-filled home.
Arriving at Quinn Group, the receptionist immediately greeted me warmly upon seeing me: 'Ms. Shaw, the conference room is ready. The elders are all waiting for you.'
I took a deep breath and pushed open the conference room door.
Several elders of the Quinn Family were whispering quietly; when they saw me enter, all conversation ceased.
"Ms. Shaw, it's not that we don't want to help," one of the elder men said, "but right now, the Quinn Family's finances are extremely tight."
Another elder added, "Moreover, given your relationship with Dylan... we cannot make a hasty decision."
I gripped the financing proposal tightly, my fingertips whitening: "Elders, the Shaw Group only needs a short-term loan for cash flow. Once we overcome this hurdle, we will definitely repay it with interest."
"Sorry, Ms. Shaw, this matter is beyond our authority to decide," one of the elders said, standing up with a tone both regretful and resolutely firm.
When the meeting room door closed behind me, I sank into the chair, feeling utterly powerless.
The clock on the wall ticked relentlessly, as if counting down the fate of the Shaw Group.
I closed my eyes, trying desperately to soothe the chaos within.
My father's dying words still echoed in my ears: "Lydia, no matter what hardships you encounter, never give up on the Shaw Group."
My phone vibrated—a message from my assistant: "Ms. Shaw, the bank has also rejected our loan application."
My heart plummeted to the depths of despair.
Is there truly no way out?
Leaving the conference room, I slowly climbed the stairs.
Few ever visit the top floor of the Quinn Group; perhaps here I could find a moment of quiet.
Pushing open the door to the top floor, I unexpectedly saw a man standing by the railing.
He turned around, impeccably dressed in a suit, his gaze profound — it was Felix Quinn.
"Ms. Shaw?" He seemed surprised, then offered a polite smile. "I didn't expect to find you here."
"Mr. Quinn." I hurriedly straightened my collar, feeling awkward.
We had seen each other several times at the Quinn Family's annual meetings, but had never spoken alone.
Felix Quinn walked over to my side, his gaze fixed on the distant skyscrapers: "I heard you came today to discuss financing?"
I paused for a moment, then nodded: "Yes, but... it's not going well."
He turned to look at me, his eyes carrying a hint of curiosity: "I know something about the Shaw Group's situation."
In truth, resolving this matter isn't impossible.
My heart stirred as I looked up at him: "Mr. Quinn, you have a solution?"
Felix Quinn smiled faintly, without answering directly: "Ms. Shaw, sometimes when you change perspective, you might discover a different path."
If you are willing, we can find a time to have a good talk.
He handed me a business card, his fingertips inadvertently brushing my hand: 'This is my private number, you can call me anytime.'
I took the business card, a faint chill spreading from the touch of his fingertips, yet a strange ripple stirred deep within my heart.
By the time I left the Quinn Family, it was already afternoon.
Sunlight poured through the car window, but I had no mood to appreciate the scenery passing by.
My phone rang again, it was a call from my mother: 'Lydia, how are things with the company?'
'Mom, don't worry, I will find a way,' I forced myself to answer calmly.
I hung up the phone, leaned back in my seat, and closed my eyes.
Felix Quinn's business card lay quietly in my handbag, like an uncertain hope.
By the time I returned to the villa, dusk had already fallen.
The courtyard was ablaze with light, and laughter rippled from the swimming pool.
I stood in the shadows, watching Dylan Lynn and Mia Scott playing in the water—their shadows merging on the surface, so intimately entwined.
I turned away, unable to bear another glance.
Just then, my phone vibrated—a message from an unknown number: 'Ms. Shaw, regarding the financing, we can discuss the details. — Felix Quinn'
I stared at the message, hesitated for a moment, and finally replied, "Alright, see you tomorrow."
Perhaps this is Shaw Group's last chance.
It is also the beginning of my reclaiming control over my own destiny.
Morning sunlight filtered through the cracks in the curtains, spilling into the room. I opened my eyes but did not rise immediately.
The text exchange with Felix Quinn from last night echoed in my mind — a long-lost feeling of being truly cherished.
After washing up, I changed into a simple yet elegant white dress.
My reflection, despite the faint dark circles beneath my eyes, showed a renewed trace of determination.
As I went downstairs, Dylan Lynn was sitting at the dining table watching financial news, while Mia Scott was busy in the kitchen.
"Morning," I greeted calmly.
Dylan looked up at me, his eyes carrying a trace of scrutiny. "Where were you last night?"
"Had some work at the company," I answered simply, offering no further explanation.
Mia came out carrying breakfast, her smile sweet. "Lydia, try the French toast I made. Dylan said it tastes great."
I picked up the fork and took a gentle bite.
The toast was crisp on the outside and soft inside, indeed very good, but I had no appetite.
"I might be a little late coming back today." I put down my fork, picked up my bag, and prepared to leave.
"Working late again?" Dylan Lynn frowned. "Why have you been so busy lately?"
"The company is going through a crucial period," I said, looking him straight in the eyes. "Unlike you, who always seems to have so much free time."
Dylan Lynn's expression shifted: 'Lydia Shaw, what do you mean by this?'
'It means nothing,' I said, turning away. 'I'm merely stating the facts.'
Driving to a F-style restaurant downtown, Felix Quinn was already waiting there.
When he saw me enter, he immediately rose and said, 'Ms. Shaw, this way, please.'
"Mr. Quinn, sorry to have kept you waiting." I nodded slightly.
"It's alright, I just arrived myself." He gallantly pulled out a chair for me. "What would you like to drink?"
"A cup of coffee, please." After sitting down, I glanced around.
The restaurant's decor was elegant and refined, with a faint aroma of coffee lingering in the air.
After the waiter left, Felix Quinn looked me straight in the eyes: "Ms. Shaw, regarding the financing issue with the Shaw Group, I have a proposal."
I held my breath, waiting for what he would say next.
"I can personally invest to help the Shaw Group through this difficult time," he said slowly, "but I have one condition."
My heart soared to my throat: "What conditions?"
Felix Quinn gave a faint smile: "I need a suitable fiancee, and you, Ms. Shaw, are the best candidate."
I stared at him in shock, momentarily unable to speak.
"Mr. Quinn, are you serious?"
"I never joke." His gaze was unwavering. "The Shaw Group needs capital, and I need a partner who can stand beside me."
Our alliance would benefit us both.
I lowered my head, contemplating his proposal.
It truly was the best solution to the Shaw Group's crisis, but it also meant I would be engaged to a near stranger.
"I need time to think." At last, I lifted my head and met his eyes unwaveringly.
"Of course." Felix Quinn nodded. "You can give me your answer whenever you're ready."
After lunch, Felix Quinn escorted me to the restaurant door.
Sunlight spilled over him, lending a subtle warmth to his figure.
"Ms. Shaw, whatever your decision may be, I will respect it," he said with a gentle smile.
I nodded in thanks and turned toward my car.
Once seated behind the wheel, I stared at Felix Quinn's business card, lost in thought.
Back at the company, the assistant promptly approached me: "Ms. Shaw, several suppliers are calling to demand payment."
"I understand.""I took a deep breath. 'Have the finance department prepare a detailed cash flow statement for me first.'"
The afternoon meeting lasted three hours, during which we discussed how to cut costs and seek new investment opportunities.
When the meeting ended, everyone looked exhausted, yet a flicker of hope shone in their eyes.
After work, I didn't go straight home but drove to the seaside.
The sun was setting in the west, its golden afterglow shimmering on the sea's surface, the waves sparkling.
I stood by the sea, letting the sea breeze tousle my hair.
Suddenly, my phone rang—it was a call from Dylan Lynn.
"Where are you?" His voice carried a hint of impatience.
"Outside," I replied simply.
"When will you be back? Mia made your favorite sweet and sour ribs."
I sneered coldly, "Please thank her for the gesture, but I won't be coming back tonight."
After hanging up, I gazed at the distant horizon, my heart already resolved.
Back in the car, I took out Felix Quinn's business card and dialed his number.
"Mr. Quinn, I accept your proposal."
There was a brief silence on the other end, followed by Felix Quinn's low, amused laugh: "A wise decision, Ms. Shaw."
Tomorrow, we will discuss the specific details.
After hanging up, I leaned back in my seat and let out a long sigh.
Though the future remained uncertain, I knew I had taken the first step toward changing my fate.
Felix Quinn said he would drive me home, and I did not refuse.
The car was silent, save for the faint whisper of air from the vents.
I turned my head to gaze out the window; the city lights flickered like distant stars.
The streetlights faded one by one, as if lighting the way toward a new path.
As we neared the villa, Felix suddenly slowed the car.
"Look over there," he whispered, pointing toward the villa's swimming pool.
I followed his gaze, and my heart plunged instantly.
In the pool, Dylan Lynn was holding Mia Scott; they were playfully splashing in the water, their laughter carrying even through the car window.
Mia's arms were wrapped tightly around Dylan's neck, their kisses stubbornly entwined.
My fingers grasped the bag strap so tightly, the tips turned white.
Felix Quinn switched off the car lights, plunging the cabin into darkness.
"Do you have to watch this every day?" His voice was low, tinged with a nearly imperceptible sorrow.
I bit my lip, remaining silent.
Tears, however, involuntarily welled up in my eyes.
After a moment, he restarted the car and stopped not far from the villa gate.
"Lydia Shaw," he turned to me, his gaze solemn, "Leave Dylan Lynn."
I was stunned, never expecting him to be so straightforward.
"I..."
"I know the Shaw Group needs help right now. " He cut me off, his voice unwavering, "As long as you're willing to get engaged to me, I can resolve the Shaw Group's financial issues."
"Engagement?" I stared at him in disbelief, nearly certain I'd misheard.
"Mr. Quinn, why did you do this?"
Felix Quinn smiled softly, his eyes deep and inscrutable: "Perhaps it's because a woman like you shouldn't be treated this way."
"Or maybe I need a suitable fiancee, and you are just that."
His words sent my heart racing; for a moment, I was at a loss for words.
The car stopped at the villa's entrance. I unfastened my seatbelt but did not immediately get out.
"Mr. Quinn, thank you for driving me back."
I will give your proposal serious consideration.
"I await your reply." His voice was calm, yet carried an undeniable, compelling power.
After getting out of the car, I stood at the villa's entrance, watching Felix Quinn's car disappear into the night.
Turning around, I walked into the living room where Dylan Lynn and Mia Scott sat on the sofa watching a movie.
"Where have you been?" Dylan asked without lifting his head.
"Something came up at the company," I replied curtly, and went straight upstairs.
Back in my room, I took off my coat and sat on the edge of the bed.
Felix Quinn's business card lay quietly in my bag, like a tantalizing secret.
I picked up my phone and scrolled through the chat history with Dylan.
The once sweet conversations now felt bitterly ironic.
It took only a few brief years for us to drift from sharing everything to becoming strangers.
The sound of water running in the bathroom made me realize I had been sitting there for a long time.
After washing away my exhaustion, I lay on the bed, yet sleep evaded me completely.
Moonlight streamed through the sheer curtains outside, casting light on a quiet corner of the room.
Suddenly, I recalled my father's words: "Lydia, life is like a game of chess; sometimes you have to sacrifice a few pieces to win the whole game."
Perhaps, being engaged to Felix Quinn is the move I must make now.
In the early hours, I finally fell into a deep sleep.
In my dream, I stood at a crossroads—one path led to a familiar past, the other to an unknown future.
I hesitated for a moment, then finally stepped onto the unfamiliar road.
The next morning, when I awoke, sunlight was already filtering through the cracks in the curtains, spilling into the room.
I got up to wash, then changed into a sharp, professional suit.
The reflection in the mirror held a determined gaze, as if prepared to face any challenge.
As I went downstairs, Dylan Lynn sat at the dining table reading the newspaper.
"So early today?" He glanced up at me.
"There's something at the company.""I replied calmly, picking up a piece of toast, "By the way, I might not be home for dinner tonight."
Dylan frowned. "Working late again?"
"No, it's an important appointment." I smiled faintly and turned to leave.
As I drove away from the villa, I glanced in the rearview mirror.
That house, once filled with laughter and joy, now looked to me like a cold prison.
My phone vibrated; it was a message from Felix Quinn: "At ten in the morning, I'll be waiting for you at the Quinn Group."
I replied with a single word, "Good," took a deep breath, pressed the accelerator, and drove toward a new direction.
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