Chapter 5 — The Proposal of Deception
Elena watched the city lights flicker from her studio window that evening, her mind weaving a plan as precise as a painting — every stroke deliberate, every shade meaningful.
To win against Noah, Vivian, and her own family, she couldn't just act alone.She needed an ally — someone untouchable.Someone strong enough to crush Arden Group and the Seos with a single move.
That someone was Damian Lee.
In her past life, she'd watched him from afar. He was a man who never involved himself in scandals or emotions — the perfect opposite of Noah.But she also remembered one thing about him: he despised betrayal.
And that would be her key.
The Unexpected Visit
Two days later, Elena appeared at Nova Enterprise, dressed in an elegant navy suit — calm, confident, and nothing like the timid artist she used to be.
The receptionist almost stammered when she saw her."I-I'm sorry, ma'am, do you have an appointment?"
Elena smiled. "Tell Mr. Damian Lee that Elena Seo wishes to discuss a mutual opportunity."
Minutes later, she was led into his office — a spacious room with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Silverwood City. Damian was behind his desk, reading a report, his sharp eyes lifting only when she entered.
"Elena Seo," he said evenly. "You don't strike me as someone who does 'business opportunities.'"
"I do now," she replied.
He gestured for her to sit. "Then I'm listening."
The Offer
Elena took a deep breath."I know this may sound unusual," she began, "but I came here with a proposal — a partnership of sorts."
Damian folded his arms. "Go on."
She met his gaze without flinching. "You once said betrayal is the fastest way to destroy an empire. I want to destroy the people who betrayed me. My fiancé — Noah Han — and my sister, Vivian Seo."
Damian's expression didn't change, but his eyes sharpened with interest."I've heard rumors about the two," he said quietly. "You're saying they're… together?"
"In secret, yes," Elena said. "And my family would rather protect them than protect me."
Silence filled the room, heavy but electric.
"Why tell me this?" he finally asked.
Elena leaned forward slightly, her tone deliberate."Because you and I both know revenge isn't just emotional. It's strategic. And I believe you could benefit from bringing down Arden Group as much as I would."
Damian's lips curved into a faint smirk. "You've done your research."
"I have," she said. "And I'm offering you something more than information."
He raised a brow. "And what's that?"
Elena's next words hung in the air like thunder."Marry me."
A Dangerous Alliance
For the first time, Damian looked truly taken aback.He studied her face — calm, determined, unshaken.
"Marry you?" he repeated. "You realize how insane that sounds?"
"Insane," she agreed. "But effective."
She stood up, walking toward the window. The city lights danced across her reflection."I don't want love, Mr. Lee. I want leverage. Together, we can destroy them — in business, in reputation, in every way that matters."
He stood as well, his voice low. "And when it's over?"
Elena turned, her gaze steady. "Then we go our separate ways. No attachments. No damage."
Damian stepped closer, his eyes searching hers. "You're either brilliant or dangerous."
"Why not both?" she said with a faint smile.
He laughed softly — the first time she'd seen any warmth in him. "You're not what I expected."
"Neither is life," she replied.
He hesitated for a moment, then extended his hand."Fine. I'll consider it. But understand this — I don't play games, Elena."
She took his hand, her grip firm, her heart steady."Neither do I. I play to win."
That night, as Elena walked out of Nova Enterprise, the rain began to fall again — soft, cleansing, full of promise.
For the first time, she didn't feel like she was surviving.She felt like she was beginning.