Games of Heart
The deal begins
Grand ballroom at the luxurious Qin Dynasty Hotel. The space is filled with glittering chandeliers, a soft hum of classical music, and an air of power and wealth. CEOs and business elites mingle, sipping champagne and exchanging polite but calculated smiles.
Qin An (30, sharp-eyed and commanding, wearing a sleek yet understated evening gown) enters the party. She exudes confidence, but a flicker of tension lingers beneath her poised exterior. The camera follows her as she scans the room, her expression unreadable yet determined.
(Glasses clink as servers glide past with trays of hors d'oeuvres. Qin An steps forward, greeting a few familiar faces with polite nods, but she doesn’t linger in small talk. Her eyes are searching for something—or someone.)
A group of middle-aged businessmen standing near the bar, laughing loudly. One of them notices Qin An. It’s Mr. Zhang, her former investor. His smirk is lecherous as he watches her. Qin An’s body stiffens momentarily before she brushes past them, ignoring his presence.
Qin An
(Qin An’s Internal Dialogue)
"Men like him think power gives them the right to take whatever they want. Not this time."
She straightens her posture, holding her head high as she approaches a group of potential investors.
Qin An joins a conversation with a group of CEOs, speaking confidently about her company’s growth and upcoming projects. The men nod politely, but their interest seems lukewarm. One of them, Mr. Lin, interrupts her.
manager
(smiling condescendingly)
Miss Qin, your company is impressive, no doubt. But the gaming market is volatile. Perhaps you’d be better off merging with an established name instead of chasing impossible growth.
Qin An
(smiling coldly)
If I feared volatility, Mr. Lin, I wouldn’t have built my company from scratch. We’re not chasing growth—we’re redefining it.
(The group falls silent, unsure how to respond. Qin An nods politely and excuses herself, her expression firm.)
(Close-up shots of elegantly dressed guests sipping champagne, servers gliding between them, and a low hum of excitement building. A small group of businessmen and socialites stand near the entrance, whispering to one another.)
manager
(leaning in conspiratorially)
Have you heard? Jiang Wei, the CEO of Bluejay Investments, might actually show up tonight.
Rui
(raising an eyebrow, intrigued)
Jiang Wei? Isn’t he the one who turned SkyPeak from a small firm into an empire in
business man2
(nodding)
That’s him. Ruthless, brilliant, and impossible to pin down. They say he only attends events when there’s something in it for him.
socialite 1
(smirking)
Or someone. Maybe he’s here to scout his next target.
Rui
(hushed tone)
I heard he’s never been photographed with the same woman twice. Doesn’t believe in attachments, apparently.
socialite 1
(chuckling)
With his money, who needs attachments
(A group of younger executives nearby join the conversation, clearly in awe.)
young executive 1
(excitedly)
If Jiang Wei’s here, it must be for a reason. His portfolio doesn’t include gaming—maybe he’s looking to expand.
young executive 2
(skeptical)
Or maybe he’s just here to show off. You know how these billionaires are.
young executive 1
Still, if he so much as glances at your company, it’s like winning the lottery.
Qin An, standing near the bar. She overhears the conversation, her expression calm but her mind clearly calculating.
Qin An
"Never photographed with the same woman twice? A serial heartbreaker, then. Of course, a man like him would thrive in these circles—wealth, charm, and no accountability. Typical."
(Her gaze shifts back to the entrance, where the murmurs grow louder as Jiang Wei enters. She takes another sip of her drink, feigning disinterest but feeling a flicker of curiosity.)
(A sudden shift in the room’s energy draws everyone’s attention. The grand double doors at the entrance swing open, and a tall, impeccably dressed figure walks in: Jiang Wei. The crowd falls silent for a moment before murmurs ripple through the room.)
manager
(in awe)
That’s him. Jiang Wei.
business man2
(whispering)
He’s even more intimidating in person.
(Jiang Wei strides into the room with effortless confidence, his sharp suit tailored to perfection. He pauses briefly, scanning the crowd with a faint smirk as if the entire event is beneath him. His gaze briefly meets Qin An’s before moving on, but the subtle connection is enough to spark whispers.)
A group of women near the center of the room, including Qin Ling.
socialite 1
(swooning)
I can’t believe he’s here. He’s even better looking than his photos.
Qin ling
(smirking, eyeing him)
Looks like the king himself has graced us with his presence. Too bad he’s probably here for business, not pleasure.
young executive 1
(laughing)
You think you’d have a chance with someone like Jiang Wei?
Qin ling
(flicking her hair, confident)
Why not? Men like him fall for power, and I’m the queen of this hotel.
Qin An
"Let me guess—he’s arrogant, smug, and probably thinks the world owes him something. Men like that love the spotlight. I’ve seen enough of them to know they’re more trouble than they’re worth."
(She looks away, forcing herself to focus on her own agenda.)
(Jiang Wei walks deeper into the ballroom, the crowd subtly parting for him. Qin An watches him closely, her expression unreadable. As he moves past her, their eyes meet again, this time lingering longer. He gives her a faint, knowing smile before continuing on. Qin An’s grip on her glass tightens slightly, her thoughts racing.)
(She looks away, forcing herself to focus on her own agenda.)
Qin An
"Besides, I’m here for business, not to waste time with some self-important womanizer. If Jiang Wei is the shark they all say he is, he can circle someone else’s waters."
In a shadowy corner, far from the crowd, stands Jiang Wei, the CEO of Bluejay Investments. His towering figure and sharp tailored suit make him impossible to ignore, even though he clearly wants to be left alone. Beside him, his assistant, Mr. Alan
, fumbles with his tablet, looking nervous.
Jiang Wei
(glaring at the crowd, his tone clipped and irritated)
Alan, remind me. Why am I wasting my evening here?
Alan
(calmly, with a hint of humor)
Because Chairman Jiang insisted. You know how persuasive he can be.
Jiang Wei
(snorting, swirling his drink)
Persuasive? That’s just a polite way of saying he still thinks he can tell me what to do.
Alan
(grinning faintly)
Well, he’s not entirely wrong. You’re here, aren’t you?
Jiang Wei
(narrowing his eyes at Alan, but there’s a flicker of amusement in his tone)
Don’t push it. You know I hate these gatherings.
Alan
(shrugging)
Could’ve fooled me. You look right at home in that corner, radiating charm and warmth.
Jiang Wei
(chuckling dryly)
Careful, Alan. That sarcasm might get you fired.
Alan
(unfazed, gesturing toward the crowd)
The Qin family’s influence is significant. Chairman Jiang thought it might smooth negotiations for the Shanghai expansion if you made an appearance.
Jiang Wei
(shaking his head, his tone firm)
Negotiations? I don’t negotiate with people like the Qins. They need me more than I need them.
Alan
(nodding, but still lighthearted)
True. But your father probably thought a little goodwill wouldn’t hurt.
Jiang Wei
Goodwill doesn’t close deals. Power does. And they all know where the power lies.
(Alan raises an eyebrow but doesn’t argue. Jiang Wei exhales sharply, his sharp eyes scanning the room. His gaze briefly lands on Qin An, standing near the bar, her confident demeanor catching his attention.)
In the corner, a small group of women, including Qin Ling (Qin An’s stepsister, 27, beautiful but arrogant), are gossiping. Qin An stands on the other side of the room, keeping her distance and avoiding unnecessary attention.
Rui
(whispering loudly to Qin Ling)
Isn’t that Qin An? The one you said was kicked out of the Qin family?
Qin ling
(snickering, loud enough for others nearby to hear)
Yes, that’s her. She’s always been so stubborn, thinking she could survive without us. Look at her now—still desperate for attention, hoping someone will throw her a bone.
(Guests around them glance at Qin An, whispering. Qin An notices but remains composed, sipping her drink and pretending not to hear.)
Rui
(mocking)
She started some gaming company, right? What was it called? Oh yes, "PhoenixTech" or something. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes? How dramatic.
Qin ling
(laughing)
More like a pigeon flapping in the dirt. She’s just playing CEO. It’s pathetic, really.
(Qin An finally looks over, her calm expression sharpening. She starts walking toward them, the room falling quieter as guests sense the tension.)
Qin An
(calmly, but with an edge)
If you’re going to gossip about me, at least get your facts straight. PhoenixTech isn’t just surviving—it’s thriving.
Qin ling
(smirking, feigning innocence)
Oh, An An, I didn’t see you there. I was just explaining your… situation to my friends. No hard feelings, right?
Qin An
(raising an eyebrow)
No hard feelings. I stopped expecting decency from you a long time ago.
(The crowd murmurs. Qin Ling’s smile tightens, clearly angered by the subtle jab. She picks up a glass of red wine from the table nearby, her temper flaring.)
Qin ling
(mocking, stepping closer)
You know, for someone who loves acting high and mighty, you don’t belong here. Maybe a little reminder would do you good.
(She suddenly lifts the glass, aiming to throw the wine at Qin An. The crowd gasps. Just as Qin An steps back, Jiang Wei steps in from seemingly nowhere, his back to the glass.)
(The wine splashes against Jiang Wei’s perfectly tailored suit. A collective gasp ripples through the room. Jiang Wei turns around slowly, his expression calm but with a dangerous glint in his eyes.)
Jiang Wei
(coolly, looking at Qin Ling)
Well, that was rude.
Qin ling
(stammering, suddenly nervous)
I-I didn’t mean to—
Jiang Wei
(interrupting, his tone sharp)
I don’t care what you meant. Throwing drinks at your guests? Interesting way to host a party.
(He steps closer to Qin Ling, towering over her. The room is dead silent.)
Qin ling
(faltering)
It’s—it’s just Qin An. She’s not really—
Jiang Wei
(cutting her off, turning to Qin An)
Miss Qin, are you alright?
(Jiang Wei offers his arm to Qin An, who hesitates for a moment before accepting. They walk away together, leaving Qin Ling humiliated in the center of the room. As they leave, Jiang Wei leans in slightly to Qin An, speaking quietly but with a teasing smirk.)
Jiang Wei
You’re welcome, by the way.
(They move through the crowd, heads turning as the murmurs of their encounter ripple across the room. A figure standing near the edge of the ballroom, hidden among the guests, quietly lifts their phone and snaps a photo of the pair walking away. Qin An’s face is just out of view, only partially captured in the frame, while Jiang Wei’s sharp features are clearly visible.)
(The photo on the phone screen shows the two of them walking side by side, but the angle obscures Qin An’s face, leaving her identity partially hidden. The focus on Jiang Wei’s face is sharp, his expression unreadable, adding an element of mystery to the photo. The sound of a camera shutter echoes faintly, unnoticed by both.)
Chasing Shadows and Headlines
Qin An’s Apartment – Living Room
(The door opens with a soft click. Qin An steps inside, visibly drained. Her usually sharp, confident demeanor is softened by exhaustion. She tosses her clutch onto a side table and kicks off her heels with a relieved sigh. Chen Mei, her lively roommate and best friend, is lounging on the couch in an oversized hoodie, a snack bowl in her lap. She looks up from her phone as Qin An enters.)
Chen Mei
(teasing)
You look like you just survived a war. How was the party? Did you secure any investors, Madam CEO?
Qin An
(collapsing onto the armchair with a heavy sigh)
Don’t even start. It was a complete waste of time.
Chen Mei
(leaning forward)
No one showed interest?
Qin An
(shaking her head)
No one worth my time. Most of them were too busy bragging about themselves, and the rest just see me as some ‘young upstart.’
Chen Mei
(Snorting)
Classic. Let me guess—then your darling sister decided to make things worse?
Qin An
(bitterly)
Oh, you already know the script. Qin Ling couldn’t resist humiliating me in front of her crowd. And of course, she made sure to remind everyone that I’m the disgrace of the Qin family.
Chen Mei
(rolling her eyes, exasperated)
That woman needs a hobby. Honestly, how do you even keep your cool around her?
Qin An
(leaning her head back, closing her eyes)
Practice. Lots of practice.
Chen Mei
(grinning)
One of these days, you should throw your drink on her. That’ll make headlines.
Qin An
(chuckling softly)
Tempting, but I’d rather not stoop to her level. She’s not worth the effort.
Chen Mei
(playfully dramatic)
Ugh, you’re too classy. I’d be banned from every hotel in the city by now if I had to deal with her.
Qin An
(standing, her exhaustion showing)
Trust me, Mei, it’s taking everything I have not to let her get to me. But right now, I just need sleep.
Chen Mei
(watching her head toward her room)
Alright, go recharge that CEO brain of yours. Tomorrow’s a new day to prove those snobs wrong.
Qin An
(smiling faintly as she opens her bedroom door)
Thanks, Mei. Goodnight.
Chen Mei
(calling after her)
And next time, drag me to one of these parties. I’ll deal with Qin Ling for you!
(Qin An changes into comfortable pajamas, pulling her hair into a loose bun. She sits on the edge of her bed, her shoulders slumping as the events of the evening replay in her mind. She remembers Qin Ling’s smirk, the whispers of the crowd, and the weight of being underestimated. She sighs deeply, shaking her head as if to clear it.)
Qin An
(to herself, quietly)
One step at a time. They’ll see.
(She crawls into bed, the soft glow of the moonlight filtering through the curtains. The camera lingers on her thoughtful expression before she closes her eyes, letting the stillness of the night wrap around her.)
Qin An’s Apartment – Morning
(The sunlight streams through the windows as Qin An groggily steps into the kitchen, still in her pajamas, her hair tied messily. She yawns, heading toward the coffee maker. In the living room, Chen Mei is scrolling through her phone, her eyes suddenly widening as she stares at the screen in disbelief. She jumps to her feet, nearly spilling her cereal.)
Chen Mei
(shouting)
Qin An! You are not going to believe this!
Qin An
(half-awake, pouring coffee)
Can it wait until I’ve had my coffee?
Chen Mei
(rushing into the kitchen, shoving her phone in Qin An’s face)
No, it can’t! Look at this!
(Qin An, startled, pulls back slightly before squinting at the phone screen. A photo is displayed showing Jiang Wei, looking sharp as always, with a woman walking beside him, her face mostly obscured. The caption underneath reads: "Mystery Woman? Bluejay CEO Jiang Wei Spotted with Possible Love Interest at Qin Dynasty Event.")
Qin An
(frowning)
Why are you showing me this?
Chen Mei
(dramatically gasping)
Why? Because it’s Jiang Wei! The Jiang Wei! And look at that—he’s with some mystery woman! Can you believe it? He’s probably dating her. I knew he had someone. The man’s too perfect to be single.
Qin An
(rolling her eyes, taking a sip of coffee)
Good for him. Why does this concern me?
Chen Mei
(gesturing wildly)
Because this is huge! He’s never been photographed with a woman before. People are losing their minds online. Look at the comments—they’re all speculating who she is. Some think she’s a model. Others think she’s the daughter of some foreign billionaire.
Qin An
(glancing again, unbothered)
Still not my problem.
Chen Mei
(grinning, scrolling quickly)
You say that now, but just wait until the paparazzi dig her up. I bet her identity will be revealed in no time.
(Chen Mei pauses, zooming in on the photo. Her grin slowly fades, replaced by a look of confusion. She leans closer to her phone, scrutinizing the image. Then, her eyes widen in realization.)
Chen Mei
(gasping loudly)
Wait. Wait, wait, wait! This… this isn’t just some random woman. An An, this is you!
Qin An
(startled, nearly spilling her coffee)
What?
Chen Mei
(pointing at the screen, her voice growing louder)
It’s you! Look at the dress! The hair! The way you’re walking! That’s the exact dress you wore last night!
Qin An
(snatching the phone, studying the photo closely)
It’s… not clear enough. You can’t see the face.
Chen Mei
(Crossing her arms)
Oh, please. I live with you. I know your silhouette better than you do. That’s you, Miss Mystery Woman. You were walking with Jiang Wei? Why didn’t you tell me?!
Qin An
(groaning, rubbing her temples)
Because it’s nothing! He just happened to step in and help me last night. That’s all.
Chen Mei
(grinning mischievously)
Oh, “helped you,” huh? And now the entire internet thinks you’re his secret girlfriend. This is incredible!
Qin An
(rolling her eyes, shoving the phone back)
It’s ridiculous. The photo doesn’t even show my face clearly. No one will figure it out.
Chen Mei
(grinning wider)
Give it a few hours. The internet works fast. I can already see the headlines: “Mysterious Gaming CEO Steals Jiang Wei’s Heart.”
Qin An
(dryly):
You’re enjoying this way too much.
Chen Mei
(laughing)
Of course, I am! This is the most exciting thing to happen since you started PhoenixTech. Who knew you’d go viral?
Qin An
(Groaning, heading toward the bathroom)
I need a shower. And peace. Don’t bother me unless the world is actually ending.
Chen Mei
(calling after her, teasing)
Too late! The internet already is!
(Qin An disappears into the bathroom, and Chen Mei resumes scrolling on her phone, a gleeful smile on her face. The camera pans to the phone screen, showing the viral photo and a flood of comments speculating on the identity of Jiang Wei’s mystery woman. The screen fades to black.)
Jiang Wei’s Penthouse – Breakfast Table
(The scene opens in a lavish dining room bathed in warm morning sunlight. Jiang Wei sits at the head of a sleek, long table, casually reading his tablet while sipping coffee. A housekeeper quietly places more dishes on the table—perfectly arranged croissants, fruit, and scrambled eggs. The atmosphere is serene until Alan walks in, holding his phone, grinning.)
Alan
(teasingly)
Good morning, Boss. Looks like you made headlines again.
Jiang Wei
(not looking up)
I always do.
(Alan steps closer and places his phone in front of Jiang Wei. The screen shows a news article with a bold headline: "Jiang Wei Seen with Mystery Woman at Qin Dynasty Hotel—Romance or Strategy?" The blurry photo of Jiang Wei and Qin An from the previous night accompanies it.)
Jiang Wei
(finally glancing at the phone, his expression indifferent)
Ridiculous.
Alan
(chuckling)
Apparently, people are fascinated by your ‘mystery woman.’ They’re saying she looks poised, elegant, and unattainable.
Jiang Wei
(setting his tablet down)
She looks blurry. The speculation is pathetic.
Alan
(grinning)
True, but this could have some implications. Some are calling it a PR win—‘The enigmatic Jiang Wei finds a partner as mysterious as him.’* Others, though, are wondering if you’re mixing business with pleasure.*
Jiang Wei
(picking up his coffee, unfazed)
Let them wonder. It’s meaningless.
Alan
(Sitting across from him):
Still, it wouldn’t hurt to figure out who she is. The media’s going to dig, and if they don’t find anything, they’ll start making things up. Better to be ahead of the narrative.
(Jiang Wei pauses for a moment, then nods.)
Jiang Wei
Get me a report. I want to know who she is and why she was at that party.
(nodding)
Already on it. I’ll have something for you by the time we’re in the office.
Jiang Wei
(Standing, adjusting his cuffs)
Good. Let’s make this the last time we’re blindsided by nonsense.
(Alan watches him leave, his amused grin widening as he pulls out his phone to start gathering information.)
Jiang Wei’s Office – Later That Morning
(Jiang Wei is at his desk, reviewing documents. Alan walks in, holding a sleek folder, and places it on the desk.)
Alan
Here’s what I’ve got so far. Not much to go on. No one seems to know her name or her connection to the party.
(Jiang Wei opens the folder, skimming through photographs and a short report. A few blurry shots of Qin An accompany vague notes about her presence at the party.)
Alan
She wasn’t on the guest list, which makes it more interesting. Whoever she is, she must’ve been invited personally by someone high up. My guess? She’s not just another socialite.
Jiang Wei
(closing the folder)
If she’s not important, this will fade. If she is, I need to know why she’s suddenly in my orbit.
Alan
Want me to keep digging?
Jiang Wei
No. Schedule a visit to the Qin Dynasty Hotel. I’ll handle it myself.
Alan
(raising an eyebrow):
The hotel? What’s the angle?
Jiang Wei
(leaning back, his tone calculated)
It’s where this started. Someone there knows who she is. I’ll find out soon enough.
Alan
(grinning):
Alright, Boss. Just don’t end up making more headlines while you’re at it.
Jiang Wei
(smirking faintly)
That depends on whether they have answers worth my time.
(Alan leaves the office, and Jiang Wei stares at the folder for a moment longer before tossing it onto his desk, his expression unreadable. He stands, buttoning his jacket, ready to leave.)
Outside Qin Dynasty Hotel – Afternoon
(A black luxury car pulls up to the grand entrance of the Qin Dynasty Hotel. Jiang Wei steps out, exuding his usual aura of authority. The camera lingers on his confident stride as he enters the building, his mind clearly focused on uncovering the identity of the mysterious woman from the night before.)
Qin Dynasty Hotel – Grand Lobby
(The grand lobby of the Qin Dynasty Hotel exudes opulence: marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and gilded decor. Jiang Wei strides in, his presence commanding as always. Hotel staff quickly straighten up as they notice him. He approaches the concierge desk, where a polished manager greets him nervously.)
manager
Mr. Jiang, welcome. How can we assist you today?
Jiang Wei
(Curtly)
I’m here to speak with someone who might have been at last night’s party. Someone from the Qin family.
manager
(bowing slightly)
Of course, sir. Allow me a moment to arrange that.
(Jiang Wei steps aside, glancing around the grand lobby, clearly unimpressed by the extravagance. Moments later, Qin Ling descends the grand staircase, dressed in a designer outfit, her confidence radiating. She notices Jiang Wei and instantly puts on a charming smile.)
Qin ling
Mr. Jiang, what an unexpected surprise! I wasn’t aware you’d be visiting our humble hotel today.
Jiang Wei
(coolly)
Miss Qin.
(Qin Ling approaches him, feigning warmth, though her curiosity is evident.)
Qin ling
To what do we owe the honor? If I’d known, I would’ve ensured a proper welcome. Are you here for business? Or perhaps... leisure?
Jiang Wei
(bluntly)
I have some questions about last night’s event.
Qin ling
(laughing lightly, though her eyes narrow slightly)
Oh? I hope everything went smoothly. My family takes great pride in hosting the most prestigious gatherings.
Jiang Wei
(sharp)
Your family, yes. But I’m more interested in one particular guest. A woman.
(Qin Ling’s expression falters briefly before she quickly masks it with a curious smile.)
Qin ling
Ah, a woman? There were so many stunning guests last night. Perhaps you could be more specific?
Jiang Wei
She wasn’t on the guest list, but she certainly drew attention. Slim, poised, confident.
(Qin Ling’s smile tightens, the description clearly striking a nerve. She crosses her arms, adopting a more defensive posture.)
Qin ling
Oh, that must be Qin An. She has a knack for showing up uninvited to events far above her station.
(Jiang Wei’s eyes narrow slightly, detecting the venom in her tone.)
Jiang Wei
Qin An? Your sister?
Qin ling
(letting out a sharp laugh)
Sister? Hardly. She’s my father’s... mistake. Let’s just say she isn’t part of the Qin family anymore. She was disowned years ago.
(Jiang Wei remains silent, his expression unreadable as he processes this new information. Qin Ling, emboldened by his lack of response, continues.)
Qin ling
She’s a troublemaker, really. She thinks she can make it on her own, but PhoenixTech? That little company of hers is doomed to fail. I wouldn’t waste your time on her, Mr. Jiang.
(Jiang Wei tilts his head slightly, a flicker of amusement in his eyes.)
Jiang Wei
Interesting. You seem to have a lot to say about someone who’s ‘not part of the family.’
(Qin Ling’s smile freezes, caught off guard by his sharp observation.)
Qin ling
Well, I just thought you deserved to know the truth. People like her... they’ll drag you down if you’re not careful.
(Jiang Wei steps closer, his tone cold and cutting.)
Jiang Wei
Thank you for the warning, Miss Qin. But I’ll decide for myself who’s worth my time.
(Qin Ling falters, her confidence cracking under his piercing gaze. Jiang Wei turns on his heel and strides toward the exit, leaving her standing in the lobby, fuming silently. As he exits, he pulls out his phone and dials Alan.)
Jiang Wei
(on the phone)
Alan, cancel my next meeting. I’ll be visiting PhoenixTech this afternoon and get me information on the girl Qin An.
(**The camera lingers on Qin Ling, her frustration evident as she watches him leave. She pulls out her phone, furiously typing a message—clearly scheming something in retaliation. The screen fades to black, setting up Jiang Wei’s impending visit to PhoenixTech.)
Shadows and Surprises
PhoenixTech Office – Morning
(Jiang Wei walks into the sleek, minimalist lobby of PhoenixTech. Employees glance up, startled to see such a prominent figure in their midst. He strides confidently to the front desk, where the nervous receptionist stands to greet him.)
Assistant
Good morning, sir. How can I assist you?
Jiang Wei
(calmly)
I’m here to meet your CEO, Qin An.
Assistant
(stammering slightly)
Uh, I’m sorry, but Miss Qin isn’t in the office today. She had some off-site meetings scheduled.
Jiang Wei
(expressionless, but his tone sharp)
Off-site?
Assistant
Yes, sir. Would you like to leave a message? I can let her know you came by.
(Jiang Wei pauses, glancing around the office with a flicker of irritation before stepping back.)
Jiang Wei
No need. I’ll return another time.
(He turns and walks out, leaving the staff whispering in awe.)
Upscale Restaurant – Evening
(The restaurant is a hub of elegance, filled with soft jazz music and murmured conversations. Qin An strides in, commanding attention. She’s dressed in a sleek black leather jacket paired with tailored trousers and polished black boots. Her edgy yet professional attire exudes confidence, contrasting sharply with the sea of traditional evening wear. Her hair is tied back in a loose, effortless ponytail, and her piercing gaze scans the room.)
(Meanwhile, seated discreetly in a corner, Jiang Wei leans back in his chair. His casual yet striking ensemble—an all-black designer jacket, fitted shirt, trousers, and spotless sneakers—makes him stand out effortlessly. He’s scrolling through his phone with a bored expression, clearly uninterested in the bustling atmosphere around him.)
(Qin An approaches a table where Investor Zhou, a middle-aged man with a smug smile, is waiting. He stands to greet her, his eyes sweeping over her with a little too much familiarity.)
investor Zhou
Ah, Miss Qin! You’ve arrived. Looking quite... bold tonight.
Qin An
(coldly, but polite)
Thank you, Mr. Zhou. Let’s get started, shall we?
(She sits, her posture stiff but poised. As they exchange formalities, Jiang Wei’s eyes flick over to her table briefly. He notices the tension in her body language but quickly returns his attention to his assistant, Alan, seated across from him.)
Jiang Wei
I thought this place was supposed to be exclusive.
(He smirks faintly and goes back to his phone. Meanwhile, at Qin An’s table, the conversation shifts to a more uncomfortable tone as Investor Zhou becomes less professional, pouring himself another glass of wine and gesturing for her to drink as well.)
investor Zhou
Come now, Miss Qin. Don’t be so uptight. It’s just a drink—part of sealing any good deal.
Qin An
(firmly)
I don’t drink on business occasions, Mr. Zhou. Let’s stick to the topic.
investor Zhou
(leaning closer)
Loosen up, Miss Qin. Trust me, a little wine can go a long way in building partnerships.
(Qin An’s jaw tightens, but before she can respond, a familiar voice cuts through the tension.)
Jiang Wei
(calmly, but with authority)
That’s one way to ruin a partnership, Zhou. By making your client uncomfortable.
(Both Qin An and Investor Zhou look up to see Jiang Wei standing beside their table, his hands casually in his jacket pockets. His dark ensemble makes his presence even more commanding, his gaze cold and calculating.)
investor Zhou
(nervously)
M-Mr. Jiang? What a surprise!
Jiang Wei
(ignoring the pleasantries)
Is this how you conduct business? No wonder your investments rarely pan out.
(**Zhou sputters, struggling to respond. Qin An looks at Jiang Wei, her eyes narrowing.)
Qin An
I didn’t need your help.
Jiang Wei
(shrugging)
You looked like you were seconds away from breaking his nose. I was saving you from a PR disaster.
(Zhou, now thoroughly embarrassed, grabs his briefcase and excuses himself, muttering apologies as he hurries out. The room goes quiet for a moment before resuming its buzz.)
Qin An
(standing, crossing her arms)
I had it under control.
Jiang Wei
Clearly. Let me guess—you were about to dazzle him with a PowerPoint on respect.
Qin An
(sarcastically)
And here I thought knights in shining armor were extinct.
Jiang Wei
(smirking)
Knights are overrated. Think of me as the guy who hates seeing incompetence.
(Before she can retort, she sways slightly, the effects of the wine she reluctantly sipped earlier catching up to her. Jiang Wei instinctively steadies her, his hands firm on her shoulders.)
Qin An
(protesting)
No, I’m not... I’m just— (pauses, blinking) —slightly unbalanced.
(She tries to pull away but stumbles. Jiang Wei sighs and shifts to support her weight better.)
Jiang Wei
Unbalanced is an understatement. Let’s get you out of here before you make headlines.
Outside the Restaurant – Paparazzi Frenzy
(**The moment Jiang Wei steps out with Qin An leaning heavily on him, camera flashes explode. He adjusts his grip, hoisting her onto his back as she groans softly.)
Qin An
Hey, put me down! I’m not a... a sack of potatoes.
Jiang Wei
(dryly):
You’re worse. At least potatoes don’t talk.
(She rests her head against his shoulder, muttering incoherently. The paparazzi yell questions, but he ignores them, his expression calm and unbothered as he carries her to his car.)
Hotel Room – Later That Night
(The luxurious suite is quiet, the sound of city traffic muffled through the thick glass windows. Jiang Wei gently sets Qin An down on the edge of the plush bed. She’s still wearing her leather jacket, her head lolling slightly as she tries to stay awake.)
Qin An
(slurring)
I told you… I can handle it… Didn’t need your… knightly nonsense.
Jiang Wei
(raising an eyebrow, amused)
You’re welcome, by the way.
(He walks to the minibar and grabs a bottle of water. Twisting off the cap, he returns to her side and crouches slightly to her level.)
Jiang Wei
Drink this before you pass out and make my life more difficult.
(He holds the bottle out to her, but she waves it away clumsily.)
Qin An
I’m fine! Just need to sleep… and then… (pauses, blinking heavily) ...take over the world tomorrow.
Jiang Wei
Ambitious, but let’s focus on hydration first.
(Realizing she won’t cooperate, he sighs and tilts the bottle toward her lips. She reluctantly takes a sip, spilling a little water on herself.)
Qin An
(grumbling)
Bossy… always bossy.
Jiang Wei
(dryly)
And yet, I’m the one cleaning up your mess.
(Suddenly, she puts a hand to her mouth, her eyes widening.)
(Jiang Wei quickly helps her up, guiding her to the bathroom. She stumbles, nearly tripping over her boots, but he steadies her with practiced ease.)
(Inside the sleek, marble-tiled bathroom, Qin An leans over the sink, gagging as Jiang Wei stands awkwardly by the door. He folds his arms, his usual air of confidence faltering slightly.)
Jiang Wei
(muttering to himself)
This is what I get for trying to be a decent human being.
Qin An
(muffled, from the sink)
You’re not decent… You’re annoying.
(She groans, wiping her mouth with a towel. Jiang Wei hands her another bottle of water, which she takes without protest this time.)
Qin An
I bet you’re loving this… seeing me like this.
Jiang Wei
(leaning against the doorframe)
Oh, absolutely. Nothing like babysitting a drunk woman who thinks she’s invincible.
Qin An
(Glaring weakly):
Careful, or I’ll puke on your expensive shoes.
Jiang Wei
(deadpan)
I’ll send you the bill.
(Despite herself, she lets out a faint laugh, then winces and holds her head.)
(Jiang Wei helps her back to the bed. This time, she kicks off her boots and slumps against the pillows, looking utterly drained. Jiang Wei stands there for a moment, unsure whether to leave or stay.)
Qin An
(murmuring)
Don’t… tell anyone about this.
Jiang Wei
Your secret’s safe. Though I can’t say the same for the paparazzi.
(Her eyes flutter open slightly, narrowing at him.)
Jiang Wei
(smirking)
And yet, you’re still alive. Funny how that works.
(She mutters something incoherent before drifting off. Jiang Wei adjusts the blanket over her, his expression softening for just a moment before returning to his usual stoic demeanor.)
(Jiang Wei grabs his jacket and heads to the door. Before leaving, he glances back at the sleeping Qin An, shaking his head slightly.)
Jiang Wei
(to himself)
Trouble always finds me.
(He exits the room, closing the door quietly behind him.)
Jiang Wei’s Penthouse – Late Night
(Jiang Wei enters his penthouse, the city lights from the floor-to-ceiling windows casting an ethereal glow over the room. He tosses his jacket over the back of the couch and sits down, rubbing his temples. His phone buzzes with a message from Alan.)
Alan
Alan’s Message:
"No major updates yet. Just that her name is Qin An, CEO of PhoenixTech. Will send more details soon."
(Jiang Wei leans back, staring at the name on the screen. A flicker of familiarity nags at his memory, but he can’t quite place it. His eyes narrow as he recalls seeing her at the restaurant earlier. Something stood out—something that made her seem oddly familiar.)
Flashback A Forest Clearing, 10 Years Ago
(A secluded forest road. Young Jiang Wei, around 19, sits against a tree, pale and weak, his breath coming in short gasps. His kidnappers had abandoned him, leaving him for dead. A young girl, no older than 18, kneels beside him, determined to help him.)
young Qin An
Stay awake. Help is coming.
(As she reaches for him, her sleeve shifts slightly, revealing a small, unique birthmark on her wrist—a delicate crescent shape. It catches the faint moonlight, burning the image into his mind.)
young Jiang Wei
(weakly)
Who… are you?
(The girl doesn’t answer, only tightening her grip on his hand before running off to find help. He never saw her again but never forgot her face—or the birthmark.)
Back to the Present: Jiang Wei’s Penthouse
(Jiang Wei snaps out of the memory, his heart pounding. His mind races as he recalls the brief glimpse of Qin An’s wrist earlier at the restaurant. It had the same crescent-shaped birthmark. Could it really be her?)
(He gets up abruptly, pacing the room. The thought feels impossible, yet something deep inside tells him it might be true. He retrieves an old notebook from his desk. Inside is a sketch he had made years ago—rough but clear, a crescent birthmark on a wrist.)
Jiang Wei
(to himself)
It can’t be just a coincidence. But I need to be sure.
Alan
(He picks up his phone and dials Alan.)
Jiang Wei
Alan, I want you to dig deeper into Qin An’s past. Look into her family, her history—everything. But keep it quiet. No one can know about this.
Alan
(over the phone)
Understood. Anything specific I should focus on?
Jiang Wei
Anything… unusual. Anything that connects her to someone she might have saved years ago.
Alan
(confused but obliging)
Got it. I’ll let you know what I find.
(Jiang Wei hangs up, his expression resolute. He’s not ready to confront her yet, not without confirmation. For now, he decides the best way to uncover the truth is to stay close.)
Jiang Wei
(To himself, with a faint smirk)
Looks like I’ll need to make PhoenixTech a priority.
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