Chapter 1
He met his future wife just a month before they tied the knot. Their first encounter, honestly, seemed unnecessary and troublesome.
In China's elite circles, money, power, and marriage form the bedrock. His marriage was merely a 'contract' between their fathers, where the identity of the bride wasn't a crucial factor.
Whether the bride was attractive or not, a shopaholic or melancholic, promiscuous or virtuous—none of it mattered. The focus was on what the couple could bring to the table.
Once their marriage was set, the families—RJ Investments on the bride's side and Huang Group on the groom's—planned to collaborate on a project in Tokyo.
The project, named 'Savanna,' might sound ludicrous: creating artificial islands in a manmade sea in the heart of the desert. Each island would host a luxury resort and casino club.
RJ and Huang aimed to craft a new illusion for wealthy Middle Eastern families unsure how to spend their oil-derived wealth. The venture required substantial investment but promised lucrative returns. That was the essence of their strategic marriage.
On his tablet, a woman's image stared back at him—a photo resembling a professional ID picture. She seemed remarkably ordinary, perhaps even attractive.
Her neatly tied-back hair, composed expression, and formal attire exuded a gentle charm, the kind favored by many elders looking for potential daughters-in-law.
"Illustrator?"
As he swiped up, more details unfolded: birthdate, education, occupation, hobbies, school and current photos.
"Yes."
Secretary Sen, with his usual brisk and precise tone, briefed him further.
"She's authored three books, mainly working from home and part-time lecturing at HwaYin University once a week."
A bit dull. Jun Shang felt he had enough information and switched off the screen. Despite studying abroad in London, she now seemed content with creating picture books.
Many wealthy women pursued fine arts as a status symbol, a bragging right, and a potential front for money laundering.
"Anything else?"
"No, she's been scandal-free so far. Described as quiet and polite."
Impressive. President Yun of RJ and his kids from previous marriages were known for their rowdiness. On his third marriage, known for infidelity, how was his daughter so composed?
"Are you sure this is accurate?"
"Yes, double-checked."
Maybe it was true. Some people preferred a quiet life.
They reached the meeting place. Jun Shang stepped out, adjusting his suit. This felt more like a business meeting than a marriage discussion.
The contract was almost final. Regardless of the woman's character, the marriage was happening. He just hoped she wouldn't get clingy afterward. Walking to the room, Jun Shang frowned. Women developing feelings for him was his pet peeve.
It wouldn't happen, but he'd be annoyed if she got attached. Mixing emotions with business was foolish. If she and her parents understood the marriage's true nature, sentiment wouldn't complicate it.
They were business partners, not Romeo and Juliet. Romance in this marriage was worse than shopping addiction or flirtation.
The door clicked open. The woman sat at a luxurious table, a vast window behind her framing an elegant magnolia tree. Perfect for a marriage meeting.
In a simple dark green dress, her pale face and updo accentuated her elegance. Standing up, she greeted him.
"I'm Jun Shang."
She lightly lowered her head. "YunXiao. Nice to meet you."
Her tone was soft, keeping a proper distance. Jun Shang smiled. The negotiation began.
YunXiao became his wife.
The wedding took place a month later, arranged like a business project by the secretaries. For Tokyo affairs, Jun Shang wasn't in China at the time.