Can't let it go

Lu Xiao's days at H&L Corporation quickly settled into a demanding but manageable routine. Each morning, she arrived early to prepare Lei Han's schedule, ensuring every detail was in place. The work was relentless, but she thrived on the structure and purpose it gave her life.

Her siblings had adjusted too. Every evening when she returned home, Xiao Wei would eagerly ask about her day, and the twins would proudly show off their schoolwork. Their laughter made the long hours worthwhile.

But despite the familiarity of her daily tasks, Lei Han remained an enigma. He was a man of precision and focus, his emotions carefully guarded. Yet, there were moments when the mask slipped—brief glimpses of something deeper, something vulnerable.

---

A Chance Encounter

One afternoon, while Lu Xiao was finalizing travel arrangements for Lei Han, Clara approached her desk.

"Mr. Lei wants you to accompany him to a charity dinner this evening," Clara said, her tone brisk.

Lu Xiao blinked, surprised. "Me? Why?"

"His usual assistant isn't available, and you're the one managing his schedule now," Clara explained. "You'll be there to handle logistics and assist as needed."

The thought of attending a high-profile event filled Lu Xiao with anxiety, but she nodded. "I understand. What time should I be ready?"

"Be at the office by six. Dress appropriately—it's a formal event," Clara said before walking away.

---

The Dinner

By the time six o'clock rolled around, Lu Xiao found herself nervously adjusting her dress in the office bathroom. She had borrowed a simple yet elegant gown from Mei Ling, grateful for her sister's impeccable taste.

Lei Han was waiting for her in the lobby, his tailored suit accentuating his commanding presence. He glanced at her as she approached, his gaze lingering for a moment longer than usual.

"You look presentable," he said, his tone neutral but his eyes betraying a flicker of approval.

"Thank you," Lu Xiao replied, suppressing the urge to fidget.

The car ride to the venue was quiet, with Lei Han focused on his phone. Lu Xiao used the time to mentally prepare herself, reminding herself that she was there to work, not to socialize.

The charity dinner was held in a grand ballroom, filled with influential figures from Chongqing's business world. Lu Xiao stayed close to Lei Han, taking mental notes and ensuring his evening ran smoothly.

As the night wore on, Lei Han introduced her to several key figures, his demeanor polite but distant. She admired his ability to navigate the room with ease, his confidence unwavering.

At one point, Lei Han excused himself to take a call, leaving Lu Xiao momentarily alone. She wandered to a quieter corner, hoping to catch her breath.

"Miss Lu, isn't it?" a smooth voice said behind her.

She turned to see a tall, distinguished man smiling at her. His silver hair and sharp suit exuded sophistication, but there was something unsettling about his gaze.

"Yes," she said cautiously. "And you are?"

"Chen Wei," he said, extending a hand. "A close associate of Mr. Lei. It's a pleasure to meet you."

Lu Xiao shook his hand, unsure of his intentions. "Likewise."

"I've heard a lot about you," Chen Wei said, his smile never wavering. "You've made quite an impression on Lei Han."

"I'm just his assistant," she said quickly, feeling her cheeks warm.

"Perhaps," Chen Wei said, his tone laced with intrigue. "But Lei Han doesn't let just anyone into his inner circle. You must be… special."

Before Lu Xiao could respond, Lei Han reappeared, his expression cool but his eyes sharp.

"Chen," he said, his tone curt. "I see you've met my assistant."

"Indeed," Chen Wei said, his smile widening. "You have good taste, Lei."

Lei Han's jaw tightened, but he said nothing, instead gesturing for Lu Xiao to follow him. She cast a quick glance at Chen Wei, who watched them leave with a look of amusement.

---

An Unspoken Understanding

The car ride back to the office was tense. Lei Han seemed lost in thought, his usual composure strained. Lu Xiao hesitated before breaking the silence.

"Mr. Lei, is everything alright?"

He glanced at her, his expression softening slightly. "Chen Wei is someone you should avoid," he said simply.

"Why?"

"He's not trustworthy," Lei Han said, his tone firm. "If he approaches you again, let me know immediately."

Lu Xiao nodded, sensing there was more to the story but knowing better than to press.

When they arrived back at the office, Lei Han paused before stepping out of the car.

"You handled yourself well tonight," he said, his voice quieter than usual.

"Thank you, Mr. Lei," she said, surprised by the compliment.

As she walked home, Lu Xiao replayed the evening's events in her mind. Chen Wei's cryptic remarks and Lei Han's reaction left her with more questions than answers.

What was Lei Han hiding? And why did she feel as though she was being drawn deeper into his world, whether she wanted to be or not?