Alina Shah was a 25-year-old successful businesswoman, known for her power, confidence, and striking beauty. But beneath her commanding presence lay a hidden truth—she was the daughter of one of the richest and most powerful families in the country. Few knew her true lineage, and she intended to keep it that way. Her short, sleek black hair framed her sharp, hypnotic hazel-wolf eyes, a gaze that could intimidate even the bravest souls.

Alina never believed in love. To her, romance was a distraction, an obstacle in the path of her ambitions. She had vowed never to marry, dedicating her life to her goals. She was kind and loyal to those who stood by her side, but to her enemies and betrayers, she was the most ruthless woman in the world.

However, her family had other plans. They demanded that she marry, threatening to strip her of her inheritance if she refused. Left with no choice, she agreed—but on her own terms. Her family had arranged her marriage to a wealthy partner’s son, Lion, a man she despised. To her, he was nothing more than a spoiled, irresponsible playboy who had never known hardship.

Determined to escape this fate, Alina devised a plan. She would marry a man from a normal background, stay with him for two years, then divorce him—convincing her family she was done with marriage forever.

Her trusted assistant and childhood friend, Ema, was tasked with finding the perfect candidate. Ema, a 27-year-old intelligent and composed woman, had worked for Alina for five years, never allowing emotions to cloud her judgment. She understood Alina’s mind better than anyone.

The hiring day arrived. Alina personally interviewed each candidate, but none impressed her. Most were timid, unremarkable, or clearly in it for money. Frustrated, she sighed, rubbing her temple as she glanced through the pile of documents before her.

The sound of firm, deliberate footsteps interrupted her thoughts.

Looking up, she saw him.

A tall, broad-shouldered man stood before her. His presence was commanding yet mysterious. His sharp jawline, piercing eyes, and silent confidence sent a strange sensation through her. There was something different about him—something that made her pause.

Her heart skipped, just for a moment. Alina quickly masked her reaction, but the slight tightening in her chest unsettled her. She wasn’t one to be easily affected. What was it about this man?

She lowered her gaze to the document in her hand. His name was Victor Lison. His background was simple, unassuming—exactly what she was looking for. But the feeling in her gut told her there was more to him than met the eye.

Victor met her gaze with a steady intensity, his expression unreadable. Alina, who prided herself on always being in control, felt an unfamiliar sense of unease. It wasn’t just attraction—it was something deeper, something unsettling.

For the first time in her life, Alina Shah felt uncertainty.

And it terrified her.