Chapter 15: The Negotiation

Li Xinyue stepped into Mu Zhenyu's office, her eyes sweeping over the interior. The room was as cold and sharp as the man himself. The walls were painted in various shades of gray, with sleek furniture and clean lines that gave off an air of professionalism and control. The large glass windows let in just enough light to illuminate the space without softening its imposing vibe. She couldn't help but smirk slightly—this office reflected him perfectly.

Mu Zhenyu sat behind his desk, his gaze lifting briefly from the stack of papers he had been reviewing. "Why are you here?" He asked, his tone calm but curious.

Li Xinyue walked closer, placed a neatly prepared document on his desk, and took a seat across from him. "I'm here to negotiate, Mr. Mu."

He raised an eyebrow at her formality but didn't interrupt. Instead, he leaned back in his chair, giving her the space to explain.

Xinyue gestured to the contract in front of him. "This is a proposal that benefits both of us. Your corporation's entertainment branch has some of the best talent in the industry—actors, singers, and models. I'm building my own company, and I want to poach a few of them. But, in return, you're free to sign away talent from the Zhang Corporation's entertainment division."

Mu Zhenyu's lips curled into the faintest hint of a smile, though his expression remained unreadable. "You're building an entertainment company?" he asked, his voice low and measured. "Interesting. Why the sudden interest?"

"Let's just say I've always had an eye for talent," she replied, crossing her legs and leaning back in her chair.

He picked up the contract and scanned through it, his fingers flipping the pages methodically. The office was silent except for the faint sound of paper rustling. After a few moments, he set the document back down and fixed his gaze on her.

"You've thought this through," he said. "But poaching from the Zhang Corporation? "

Xinyue smiled, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. "Let's just say they owe me. And besides, it's business. I'm offering you a mutually beneficial deal. You get access to their talents, and I get a chance to build something from scratch without restrictions."

For a moment, he didn't respond. Then, with a sharp nod, he picked up his pen. "Fine. I'll sign. But don't expect me to go easy on you just because we're married."

"I wouldn't dream of it," Xinyue said smoothly.

Once both signatures were on the document, Mu Zhenyu slid her copy of the contract back across the desk. "Happy cooperation," he said, his tone laced with dry amusement.

"Happy cooperation," she echoed, standing up and collecting the document.

As she turned to leave, she hesitated for a moment before speaking again. "By the way, I plan to find my biological family soon. I thought you should know."

He looked at her, his expression softening just slightly. "It's a good decision," he said. "Let me know if you need any help."

"Thanks," she replied, her voice sincere. "I'll handle it for now. But I'll keep you updated."

With that, she walked out of the office, her heels clicking against the polished floor. The confidence in her stride was unshakable, and as the door closed behind her, Mu Zhenyu allowed himself a small, rare smile.

He couldn't help but think that this woman—his wife in name only—was far more intriguing than he had ever expected.