Chapter 11: The Unwanted Contract

The grand ballroom shimmered under the golden chandeliers as guests mingled, their laughter and conversation blending into a harmonious buzz. The opening ceremony of Wang Luxury Hotels was in full swing, the event a dazzling success.

Gen stood near the chef's station, wiping her hands as the final course was served. She exhaled in relief. The food had been an undeniable hit, with praises flowing from every corner of the room. Even the most critical guests were left speechless by her culinary expertise.

"Chef Gen," a staff member called, approaching with urgency. "Madam Wang would like to see you at the VIP lounge."

Gen nodded, adjusting her blazer before making her way toward the lounge. The moment she stepped inside, her eyes widened.

Lee stood at the far end of the room, radiant in a sleek black evening dress, her usual strict demeanor replaced with effortless elegance. For the first time, Gen was stunned.

Damn.

She had always known Lee was beautiful, but tonight, under the soft glow of the lounge lights, she looked breathtaking. It didn't help that Gen was still processing the shock from earlier—finding out Lee was the Wang heir, the only daughter of one of the most influential women in the industry.

Lee, on the other hand, barely hid her annoyance at Gen's presence, her arms crossed as she leaned against the bar.

Wang Yan gestured for Gen to step forward, a pleased smile on her face. "Chef Gen, you have exceeded expectations. The event was a success, and I have no doubt this will only elevate our brand further. I want you to continue working with us."

Gen straightened. "It was an honor, Madam Wang. I'd be happy to discuss future collaborations."

Wang Yan turned to Lee, her expression firm. "Lee, I want you to handle the contract and financial settlements with Gen."

Lee stiffened. "Why me?"

"Because you are the heir, and you need to learn how to manage these things," Wang Yan said, leaving no room for argument.

Lee clenched her jaw. "I'm on break."

"And yet, you're here," her mother replied coolly. "Since you have time, use it wisely."

Lee exhaled sharply, knowing there was no way out of this. Her mother hadn't spoken to her in three months due to her refusal to take over the business. If she refused now, it would only make things worse.

"Fine," Lee muttered. "I'll handle it."

Gen smirked. "Guess I'll be in your care, Dr. Lee."

Lee shot her a glare. "Don't push your luck."

Wang Yan, satisfied with the arrangement, excused herself, leaving the two alone.

Gen chuckled, leaning in slightly. "So, I'll be seeing more of you?"

"Unfortunately," Lee muttered, walking away.

Gen's Endless Bothering

From that day forward, Gen made it a habit to "visit" Lee at the hotel. She would show up unannounced, pretending to discuss contracts while taking every opportunity to tease and flirt.

"Dr. Lee, shouldn't you be smiling more? You're representing the family business now," Gen teased one afternoon, leaning over Lee's desk.

Lee shot her an unimpressed look. "Do you ever take anything seriously?"

"Of course," Gen said smoothly, resting her chin on her hand. "Just not around you."

Lee groaned, rubbing her temples. "Go away, Gen."

"You say that every time, yet I'm still here."

Before Lee could retort, the door to her office swung open.

Wang Yan stood at the entrance, her sharp eyes narrowing at the sight before her.

Lee instantly straightened, while Gen merely smiled.

"Chef Gen," Wang Yan's voice was cool, but there was an unmistakable edge to it. "A word."

Gen followed Wang Yan out to the hallway, the playful glint in her eyes disappearing as the older woman turned to face her.

"You should know your place, Gen," Wang Yan said icily. "My daughter is not someone you can play around with. If you continue this behavior, you will not be working with us anymore."

For the first time, Gen remained silent, her usual teasing attitude fading.

She gave Wang Yan a curt nod before walking away, not sparing another glance.

The Declaration of War

The next day, Lee sat at her desk, flipping through documents when an envelope landed in front of her.

She looked up to see Gen standing there, her expression unreadable.

"What's this?" Lee asked cautiously.

"A contract cancellation," Gen replied.

Lee frowned. "What?"

Gen exhaled, crossing her arms. "I'm ending the contract with the hotel."

"Why?" Lee demanded.

Gen's lips curved into a small, almost sad smile. "Because I liked you before I knew who you were. And I'm not backing off."

Lee's breath caught in her throat.

Gen straightened, her usual confident smirk returning. "I guess it's a war now. Between me and your mother. And you, Dr. Lee, are stuck in the middle."

Lee's grip tightened on the envelope.

Before she could respond, Gen was already walking away.

Lee's Choice

That evening, Wang Yan sat in her office, reviewing reports when Lee entered.

"You're interfering too much," Lee said bluntly.

Wang Yan looked up, unimpressed. "I'm protecting you from distractions."

Lee's jaw clenched. "You think Gen is a distraction?"

"She is reckless. She doesn't belong in this world," Wang Yan said coldly.

Lee exhaled sharply, shaking her head. "Then maybe I don't either."

Wang Yan's eyes darkened. "Don't be ridiculous. You are my heir."

Lee's voice was eerily calm. "I'm ready to marry whoever you propose. If that's what you want."

Silence fell between them.

Wang Yan studied her daughter, but Lee's face revealed nothing.

"Fine," Wang Yan finally said. "I'll arrange it."

Lee nodded, turning to leave.

But deep inside, she felt something uneasy settle in her chest.

Something she didn't quite understand yet.

Something that made her wonder…

Why did it feel so wrong?