Chapter 1

The billionaire heiress’s first love suddenly returned to the city.

She declared her undying love for him on a live TV show, and then partied all night with him at an exclusive nightclub.

After spending three years as his stand-in, I finally woke up.

Take the money, sign the divorce papers, and walk out.

You ask why I left without a single hesitation?

Well, of course, it's because...

My own first love is back, too.

"Seraphina, word on the street is that you wrote and composed your hit single 'Abyss' all by yourself, inspired entirely by your first love. Is that true?"

The host flashed a dazzling smile at the gorgeous woman beside him. Seraphina’s lips curved upward.

"It’s true."

"Now, before we went on air, the producers gave me a little mission for you. Could you call your first love right now and get him to grant you a wish without telling him we're broadcasting live?"

Seraphina hesitated for a split second, then gave a nod.

The moment the call connected, I found myself holding my breath in front of the TV screen at home.

"Julian, it’s me."

A rare, girlish blush spread across Seraphina’s face. "Are you free to talk right now?"

"I just stepped off the plane. What's wrong?"

Julian’s voice was as gentle as ever. Seraphina froze for a beat before blurting out, "Why did you just land? Were you out of town on business?"

"I just flew back to the city today. I wanted to surprise you, but I never expected you’d call me first."

Julian chuckled softly. Hearing that, Seraphina bolted straight out of her chair in sheer excitement.

The host and the guest stars exchanged knowing glances, their faces plastered with smirks.

"Uh, I..."

Seraphina’s mind went completely blank, and words tumbled out of her mouth: "I’m coming to pick you up at the airport right now! Wait for me!"

Right there on a hit live reality show, Seraphina walked out on the production crew and millions of viewers, rushing to Julian without looking back.

The clip went viral on TikTok, and everyone on the internet was congratulating her on finding true love.

Yet not a single soul knew that she had been married for three years.

As I sat alone at home, drowning my sorrows in alcohol, my phone suddenly buzzed.

"Hello? Cole, Seraphina is asking for you."

I glanced at the caller ID; it was Amy, her personal assistant.

Knowing that Seraphina was definitely with Julian right now, my tone couldn't help sounding bitter.

"Isn't she supposed to be busy right now?"

"She was, but she’s completely wasted now and keeps mumbling your name! Please come pick her up, hurry!"

Amy sounded frantic. I frowned at her words.

With a handsome guy right beside her, she actually had time to remember me, her contract husband?

Refusing to look pathetic in front of Julian, I took a quick shower, threw on a fresh suit, and hailed an Uber to the address Amy texted me.

The Royal Club.

"Let me tell you, I run things in my house. When I say jump, Cole never dares to ask how high. Bet you a hundred bucks he'll come running the second I call him!"

Standing outside the VIP lounge, I caught Seraphina's arrogant voice loud and clear.

"Seraphina..."

Her best friend, Chloe, tugged at her sleeve, pointing toward the doorway and whispering, "Cole is here."

I saw a flicker of panic flash across Seraphina's face, but she quickly masked it with a smug smirk, patting the leather cushion beside her.

"Come here. Sit next to me."

I kept my composure as best as I could, walking over to her side. Glancing at the empty liquor bottles on the table, I frowned.

"Go easy on the drinks. You have a family dinner tomorrow."

Seraphina waved her hand dismissively. "Who cares? I'll just tell my grandfather you dragged me out to entertain clients. He always believes you anyway."

I stayed silent. Seeing that I wasn't fighting back, Seraphina rolled her eyes, muttered, "Boring as always," and turned with a radiant smile toward the handsome man sitting next to her.

"Julian, if you ever need anything down the road, just say the word. I'll do whatever it takes to help you."

Julian shook his head gently, looking at her with warm eyes.

"I don't have a solid plan yet. Once I settle down here in the city, I might take over the regional branch of my family's company."

"Great. As soon as you take over, I'll have a massive gift ready for you."

Seraphina rested her chin in her hands, her eyes glued to Julian. Watching the scene unfold, I could tell she wanted nothing more than to lean in and kiss him right then and there.

"To celebrate your return, let's have a drink."

Seraphina raised her glass. Just as Julian picked up his to clink it against hers, she pulled back, flashing a playful, sly grin.

"Let's lock arms and drink together."