Prajwal_Kadlag

Ahn Jae-hyun, a powerful CEO, and Kang Ji-ah, his fearless bodyguard, are forced into a contract marriage—unbeknownst to their families, they are already in love. But their happiness is short-lived as secrets unravel, revealing Ji-ah’s hidden twin, a long-lost mother, and a shocking betrayal.

Jae-hyun’s past holds its own mystery—was he truly the heir, or had he been living someone else’s life all along? As deception, fate, and powerful enemies threaten their love, Ji-ah and Jae-hyun must fight to reclaim their destiny.

A story of love, secrets, and a bond that defies all odds—"Beyond the Contract: A Love Meant to Be."

"Beyond the Contract: A Love Meant to Be"

The world of the rich and powerful was no place for the weak. I knew that better than anyone. As I stood in the grand lobby of Ahn Group, my sharp eyes scanned every detail, my body tense yet composed. My job was simple—protect Ahn Jae-hyun, the young and ruthless CEO who had more enemies than allies.

But if only things were that simple.

"Ahn Jae-hyun is arriving," my earpiece buzzed with a security update.

I turned just in time to see the sleek black car pull up to the private entrance. The moment the door opened, Ahn Jae-hyun stepped out—towering, sharp-featured, and radiating an aura of untouchable authority. He was dressed in a perfectly tailored suit, his dark hair falling slightly over his forehead.

Even after working for him for months, I still found myself momentarily stunned by his presence. But I quickly straightened. I was his bodyguard, not a fan.

As soon as he stepped into the building, the whispers began.

"She's gorgeous... but can she actually protect him?"

"A woman as a bodyguard? Bold choice."

I ignored them. This wasn't the first time people underestimated me, and it wouldn't be the last. I wasn't just any bodyguard—I was trained, deadly, and more than capable of handling any threat.

"Ms. Kang," Jae-hyun addressed me as he walked past, not even sparing me a glance.

"Sir," I responded curtly, falling into step behind him.

He always kept things professional, never engaging in unnecessary conversation. Not that I minded—I preferred it that way. But there were moments, rare ones, when I caught something in his gaze. A flicker of curiosity, or perhaps... amusement?

Why would a powerful CEO be amused by his own bodyguard?

Later That Day – Ahn Jae-hyun's Office

I stood by the door as Jae-hyun worked. His office was massive, with floor-to-ceiling windows that showcased the city skyline. He was reviewing documents, his long fingers tapping against the desk in thought.

"You're unusually quiet today," he finally said without looking up.

I raised an eyebrow. Since when did he notice my silence?

"I'm here to protect you, not entertain you, sir," I replied flatly.

That made him smirk. "You're always so serious, Kang Ji-ah."

"Because my job is serious," I shot back.

His gaze finally met mine. "You don't find it exhausting? Always being on guard?"

I hesitated for a fraction of a second before replying, "No."

Of course, it was exhausting. But I had been trained to push through exhaustion, to never let my guard down. Because the moment I did, I could lose everything.

"Very well," he said, returning to his papers.

I exhaled softly, pushing down the strange feeling that always surfaced whenever Jae-hyun looked at me like that.

Because no matter what happened between us, there was one thing I had to remember—

I was his bodyguard. And nothing more.

Chapter 1: The CEO and His Bodyguard.