Chapter 2 Tempting Woman

The next morning, sunlight filtered through the window as Jeanne slowly opened her eyes, still feeling a slight headache.

She rubbed her forehead and got up carefully. Every small movement caused pain, making her wince.

Only then did her memories return-last night's passionate encounter and the man's relentless insistence.

Jeanne was still confused. It wasn't a dream-the man had really come back! She had hoped to live quietly in William's house for a year, but on her second day, she had already lost her dignity.

That was her first night here. Her heart ached, but she hid her sadness.

She remembered the agreement she made with her father before arriving. "Once you enter William's house, accept whatever happens without resistance. No matter what the family does, endure it patiently. If your identity is exposed, I won't give you a single penny!" Jeanne clenched her fists, burying her pain deep inside. Playing Jessy, William's wife, meant their relationship seemed natural.

After calming herself, Jeanne prepared to get out of bed when the bathroom door opened. William came out, freshly showered, wearing a loosely tied bathrobe that revealed his broad chest, water dripping from his hair.

Jeanne's eyes met his. She fell silent, recalling the information Julian had given her. William was a rare business genius, who had saved his family's company from bankruptcy five years ago.

In less than a year, he controlled the family's internal conflicts and expanded the business internationally. Now, the William family was the most powerful and wealthy in the capital. The man before her was truly untouchable.

Feeling overwhelmed, Jeanne looked away and hid under the covers. William remembered the pain on her face last night-it was a bittersweet memory. He spoke gently, "Are you awake?" "Yes," Jeanne replied. Though they had been physically close, they weren't truly familiar yet. William was naturally quiet, so after a few words, an awkward silence fell. Jeanne finally broke it.

"Why did you come home so suddenly?" Julian's data said William lived abroad all year and never returned. How was he back after only one day?

William wasn't surprised by the question. His return was indeed sudden; fewer than five people knew. "I came home to fulfill Grandpa's order-to have a child with you. Grandpa keeps nagging about wanting to hold his great-grandson. It's driving me crazy," William said. Jeanne frowned silently. It had only been a short time since he came home, and already he wanted a child while Jessy wasn't around.

William didn't notice her expression. He walked to the bedside table, took a black card from his wallet, and handed it to Jeanne.

"What's this for?" she asked, confused. "It's an unlimited card. Use it to buy whatever you want," William said without emotion. Jeanne stared at the card, feeling insulted. Was this his idea of a gift because she was going to have a child with him? Rich people always solved everything with money.

"No need. I have enough money," she said, avoiding his gaze. She then pulled the blanket over herself and went into the bathroom, slamming the door. William raised his eyebrows in surprise-she was angry. Rumors said she was brave enough to show her feelings to him.

A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts. William opened it to find Hans, who politely said, "Director, Grandpa is looking for you." William gave him a cynical look, his expression familiar. "Your data says my wife likes buying branded clothes, makeup, and high heels-is that a lie?" William asked.

Hans was shocked. "No, according to her shopping records, she shops every two or three days and buys a lot." William sighed. "Looks like your skills have declined. Even small reports like this are wrong. Your bonus will be cut for a month."

He turned and left without looking back. After the footsteps faded, Jeanne came out of the bathroom, looking depressed and helpless. She had truly suffered a great loss-not only her honor but now a long-term relationship with William. Could she survive another year like this? Her feelings were mixed.

Another knock came at the door. Jeanne thought it was William again and planned to ignore it, but a sweet voice called out. "William, are you awake? It's me, Alexa." Jeanne froze, recalling the information.

Alexa was a young woman from a wealthy family connected to the Williams.

She had lived here years ago, held a high position, and was said to be William's younger sister. But everyone knew she had feelings for him.

William had just returned, and Alexa couldn't wait to see him. Though Jeanne didn't want to meet her, she was playing Jessy and had to compose herself before opening the door. Alexa smiled brightly at the open door.

"William, I heard you were home and rushed over..." Before she finished, she saw Jeanne. "Jessy... what are you doing here?" Alexa's smile stiffened, eyes full of annoyance and hatred. Jeanne leaned casually against the door.

"Why can't I be here? Don't I always sleep in this room?" "It's different now William is back, yet you're still so bold and shameless! Go away!" Alexa snapped, glaring. "On what basis? I'm his wife.

What's wrong with sleeping here?" Jeanne's tone was unyielding, clearly imitating Jessy.

According to the data, Jessy and Alexa often argued. Alexa wanted to take Jeanne's place as William's wife. "Jessy, don't be so proud. I know your dirty deeds.

A seductress like you isn't worthy of William," Alexa said coldly, pride shining in her eyes. She had come early to complain.

Jeanne's voice turned cold and firm. "Alexa, what do you mean by 'seductress'?" "Still pretending? Want proof?" Alexa pulled two photos from her pocket and slapped them on Jeanne's chest. Jeanne glimpsed the photos-herself intimately close with a handsome man. She recognized him as Gilbert, a wealthy and high-ranking family heir.

Jeanne frowned. Alexa's words weren't empty-she had evidence against Jessy. It looked like Jeanne was about to be the scapegoat again. But she couldn't admit that now. "Fake photos.

Who are you trying to fool? Do you really think William would believe this?" She laughed mockingly and threw the photos away.

Alexa was furious. This lowly woman was so good at pretending-still denying even with proof.

Did she think she could get away with it? Dream on. "Jessy, you're heartless. Just wait until I have all the evidence of your affair.

Then I'll expose your tricks!" Alexa said before storming off. Jeanne stood there, feeling a sense of danger. Being a stand-in was harder than she imagined.

She had to avoid being exposed and face endless troubles. If this kept up, things would get worse.

She decided to ask Julian what really happened to Jessy and when she might return. Jeanne had her limits. Back in her room, she called Julian.

He replied coldly, "Don't ask questions you shouldn't. Just pretend everything's fine.

Don't forget your mother's medical expenses." Then he hung up without waiting for her response.