Intimidation

Shen Yingnian's success in breaking down Nie Ruoyun's defenses wasn't solely due to his knowledge of the plot and his resourcefulness. The "post-coital smoke" – the e-cigarette granted by the system – played a crucial role.

Its primary function was to enhance his aura. While seemingly minor, this was invaluable for Shen Yingnian.

In novels, protagonists and villains are often defined by their presence.

Protagonists can often sway others with a few well-chosen words, a phenomenon known as the "protagonist halo."

Villains, on the other hand, are often met with skepticism and scorn, regardless of the logic or confidence in their arguments.

Without the e-cigarette's effect, even Shen Yingnian's carefully crafted words might not have deterred Nie Ruoyun from fighting him to the bitter end.

Now, with his enhanced aura, combined with a mix of intimidation and enticement, the heroine was practically cornered.

Of course, Nie Ruoyun's emotional vulnerability after the violation also contributed to her susceptibility to Shen Yingnian's manipulations.

With her defenses shattered, Nie Ruoyun's strong facade crumbled, leaving only misery and helplessness.

"Why… why did you do this to me?" she asked, tears welling up. "You're rich and powerful. You could have any woman. Why me?"

"Because I want you," Shen Yingnian replied, his smile widening, his words laced with cruelty. "And if I can't have you, then no one can."

"Shen Yingnian, you… you've already taken my body. Do you have to destroy me completely?!"

"It's just how things are. Rather than letting someone else have you, I'd rather… well, you understand." He delivered these brazen words with complete confidence.

Nie Ruoyun could only remain silent, lost in her own despair.

She truly didn't know what to do.

The strong woman had been reduced to a vulnerable victim, and Shen Yingnian, the wolf in sheep's clothing, was about to reveal his true nature.

Sensing her internal struggle, he suddenly softened his tone. "If you're finding it difficult to accept, I can offer a compromise."

"What is it?" Nie Ruoyun asked quickly, unaware that the word "compromise" had sparked a flicker of hope within her.

This reaction pleased Shen Yingnian.

His years of experience as a driver for a powerful executive had taught him the art of negotiation: always offer a way out, even if it's a less-than-ideal one.

Seeing the glimmer of hope in Nie Ruoyun's eyes, he said slowly, "It's simple. Be my girlfriend for a year. Our relationship will be a secret, but you must fulfill your girlfriend duties. For example…"

Shen Yingnian's eyes gleamed with a suggestive look.

Nie Ruoyun's face flushed. "You beast! You want to… you want to…" She couldn't bring herself to say the words.

Shen Yingnian smiled. "Don't worry. I won't take advantage of you for nothing. In that year, I'll help your company increase its market value a hundredfold and help you and your mother become the core members of the Nie family. And then… well, then you'll belong to me for life."

Nie Ruoyun was horrified. She stared at him, speechless. "I know you're rich," she finally said, "but I'm not a commodity!"

"Everything has a price," Shen Yingnian sneered. "Your company is struggling. Your new products aren't selling, and your debts are piling up. Are you sure you can last a year?"

He had struck another nerve.

Nie Ruoyun was in a precarious position. If her business failed, she would not only face crippling debt but also the scorn of the Nie family.

This was why, in the novel, Xiao Chen's timely intervention had won her heart.

Nie Ruoyun wavered.

To prove her worth to her family, she had risked everything. But now, she was on the verge of ruin.

Shen Yingnian's words planted a seed of doubt.

"I don't make empty promises," he continued. "I guarantee it."

"Why should I trust you?" Nie Ruoyun retorted, though Shen Yingnian could tell she was considering it.

"If I fail to deliver, I'll give you 100 billion yuan in one year," he said. "That's more than enough."

Nie Ruoyun's heart pounded.

The compromise was tempting.

But as she recognized her own weakness, she felt ashamed and angry.

How could she even consider it?

But if she rejected it, what other options did she have?

As she wrestled with her conscience, Shen Yingnian pressed his advantage. "Think about it. A year as my girlfriend. You'll maintain your reputation. No one will know about us. And after a year, you'll have both fame and fortune, achieved your ambitions, and resolved your mother's situation. Then, you'll be the mistress of the Shen family. A win-win, wouldn't you say?"

"And even if I don't fulfill my promise, you won't lose out. 100 billion is enough for you and your mother to live comfortably. You won't have to depend on the Nie family. You can leave me and start over. Miss Nie, you're a businesswoman. You know a good deal when you see one."

Nie Ruoyun glared at him.

The money was tempting, but the price… the thought of being with him for a year… even 100 billion didn't seem so appealing.

No! she thought. Don't let him manipulate you!

Her resolve returned. She was back in business mode, regaining her composure.

"Is your offer genuine?" she asked.

"We can put it in writing," he replied.

"…" Nie Ruoyun took a deep breath. "I need time to think," she said. "But there's one condition. If it's not met, I won't agree, even if I die here today."

"Tell me," Shen Yingnian said.

Nie Ruoyun blushed. "It's… about the 'girlfriend duties' you mentioned," she whispered. "In private, holding hands is okay. But you can't… you can't touch me. Anything else… has to wait until you fulfill your promise. That's my bottom line."