Ethan Ye came to the Lin Group with only one goal— infiltrate Alex Lin's side and strike when the time was right.
When he heard Alex was choosing a personal bodyguard, he immediately stepped out.This was his chance.
Hide beside him.Gain his trust.And one day— deliver the fatal blow.
Alex clapped his hands lightly."Two volunteers? Excellent. What are your names?"
The first man saluted seriously."Reporting, sir. My name is Zach Hu."
The Security Chief nodded proudly."Zach has been with us five or six years. Loyal, disciplined, very reliable."
The second stepped forward—Ethan."Reporting, sir. Ethan Ye."
The chief lowered his voice:"He's a new hire. Very capable—none of us can beat him in a fight. But… there are gaps in his background check."
Ethan's expression didn't change, but his pulse quickened.He couldn't afford suspicion.
Alex smiled warmly."No need to doubt someone without reason. Since he came to our company, he trusts us. We should trust him too."
Alex patted Ethan's shoulder, his tone full of generosity."You're excellent. From now on, follow me. If I eat meat, you'll at least drink soup."
Ethan's heart surged with triumph.Finally—he was in.
"Thank you, Vice President Lin!"
Alex grinned."We're family now. No need to call me 'sir.' Just 'Vice President Lin' is fine."
"Yes, Vice President Lin!"
Alex then turned to Zach."You're great too. When I get another bodyguard slot, I'll bring you in."
Zach's face lit up."Thank you, sir!"
Alex motioned Ethan to follow him into the office.
The moment they stepped inside, Ethan spotted a woman sorting files at the desk.
His pupils shrank.
Rachel Liu.
A stunning beauty—grace, intellect, sharp tongue—Sophia Song's closest friend.
In the previous life, she became Alex's right hand, devising schemes that cornered Ethan again and again until he lost everything.
She wasn't just beautiful.She was dangerous.
This woman ruined me once.
In this life—he wouldn't let her do it again.Or perhaps… he could turn her into his ally—and enjoy her beauty as revenge.
His ambition burned hotter.
Rachel handed Alex a folder without even looking up."This is Lin Investment's brief. Key points are highlighted in red."
"Good." Alex nodded. "Make me a coffee."
Rachel blinked once—then rolled her eyes."I'm your work secretary, not your maid. Brew your own coffee."
Alex stared blankly.
Ethan almost laughed.
Then Rachel finally looked at him.Her gaze swept over his tall frame and sharp features.
"Him? That's your new bodyguard?"
Alex proudly nodded."Handsome, right?"
Ethan straightened.As a former mercenary king, he knew exactly how to pose.
Rachel gave a genuine nod."Not bad. Looks like you're consistent—pretty face picking another pretty face."
Ethan froze.Was that praise or an insult?
Rachel grabbed her planner."I'm going to handle your appointment paperwork. Don't call me unless it's urgent."
With a swish of her skirt and a click of heels, she left the office.
Alex leaned over, whispering jokingly,"Don't mind her. My new secretary is… unique. She even looks down on her boss."
Ethan straightened."Don't worry, Vice President Lin. I won't take it personally."
Inside, though, he was ecstatic.
No affection between them.No emotional progress.Perfect.
Rachel will be mine. So will your company. And your life.
Alex glanced at documents—everything aligned with his past-life memories.Time flew. Soon it was 2 p.m.
He packed up and headed out.
Rachel saw him preparing to leave."Vice President Lin, where are you going?"
"To the hospital."
At the word "hospital," Rachel's face immediately softened—she assumed he meant Sophia Song.
"Wait. I'm coming too."
Ethan followed silently behind them. As a bodyguard, that was his role.
But inside?
A storm brewed.
Hospital.If Sophia Song was there, then fate was at play.
All pieces were gathering again.
This time, he vowed—he would be the one to win.