Empire of Desire: An Alpha’s Financial Reign - Chapter 19

On the campus of Huaxin University, cherry blossoms swayed gently in the spring breeze. Beneath the soft rustle of petals, the lights in the Student Union Office glowed warmly. Inside, Jiang Wan, the poised and composed president of the student union, was fully immersed in preparations for an upcoming exchange event with elite universities in Beijing.

With her cool demeanor and graceful elegance, Jiang Wan’s presence exuded authority. Every decision she made was calm yet decisive, reflecting a sharp intellect beneath her serene exterior. She carefully delegated responsibilities, breaking the event into well-organized segments, and under her guidance, each department operated with impressive efficiency.

Among the many activities planned, one stood out—a campus night gaming competition that had sparked widespread interest. Jiang Wan decided to collaborate with Han Zaijing’s company to co-host the event.

Given the soaring popularity of Myth, it was the perfect opportunity to bring innovation and engagement to the students.

She placed a call to Han Zaijing and invited her to the Student Union Office for an in-person discussion.

When Han Zaijing arrived, she found Jiang Wan standing by the window, bathed in the fading light of the setting sun. The golden rays softened her silhouette, making her appear almost ethereal.

Known across campus for her beauty, Jiang Wan had porcelain skin, clear eyes that seemed to see through pretense, and long, dark hair that flowed gently over her shoulders. There was an unearthly stillness to her—quiet, yet captivating.

Han Zaijing paused at the doorway, momentarily entranced.

Jiang Wan turned around, arching a brow. “What are you staring at, silly?”

Their eyes met, and laughter followed—breaking the initial formality and replacing it with warmth.

As they delved into the details of the gaming competition, the conversation gradually expanded. From school affairs to professional ambitions, from artistic tastes to childhood dreams—the topics flowed naturally between them. Han Zaijing quickly realized that beneath Jiang Wan’s aloof appearance was a passionate, curious soul with a profound appreciation for art and a relentless dedication to her work. She admired that.

Night eventually fell, casting a quiet stillness over the campus. As they stepped outside together, Han Zaijing turned to Jiang Wan with a playful smile.

“Madam President,” she said lightly, “I noticed a night market-themed food stall event in your program. Want me—your local expert—to give you a preview?”

Jiang Wan hesitated. She had never experienced a real street market before. But curiosity sparkled in her eyes, and with a subtle nod, she agreed.

The night market near campus was buzzing with energy. Rows of brightly lit stalls offered sizzling snacks, colorful desserts, and enticing aromas that mingled in the warm night air. Jiang Wan’s usual calm gave way to a childlike wonder as she took in the scene, her eyes darting from one unfamiliar dish to another.

Han Zaijing navigated the crowd effortlessly, a teasing glint in her gaze. “Here, try this.” She handed over a skewered octopus ball, carefully feeding it to Jiang Wan with a bamboo stick.

Jiang Wan hesitated briefly, then took a cautious bite. The rich flavors of squid, crispy batter, and tangy sauce burst in her mouth. Her eyes lit up in delight. “It’s… really good.”
Han Zaijing grinned. “Told you.”

Seeing Jiang Wan enjoy something so simple made Han Zaijing feel a quiet sense of satisfaction. They continued through the market, tasting roasted chestnuts, candied hawthorn, spicy tofu, and more. Jiang Wan’s cold exterior seemed to melt away with every new discovery. Her laughter was light and genuine, and her face glowed with a rare warmth.

When they stopped at an ice cream stall, Han Zaijing bought two cones and handed one to her. “Dessert,” she said with a gentle smile.

Jiang Wan took a small bite, raising her eyebrows at the chill. “It’s freezing,” she murmured, though a smile tugged at her lips.

“Eat slowly,” Han Zaijing said softly, eyes full of affection. “Don’t catch a cold.”

As they walked side by side, Han Zaijing’s arm brushed against Jiang Wan’s. It was a fleeting touch—barely noticeable—but it sent a ripple through Jiang Wan’s heart. She glanced at Han Zaijing, her expression unreadable, but her eyes betrayed a quiet shyness, and perhaps, something more.

The lights of the night market cast flickering shadows across the pavement. Their silhouettes stretched and overlapped, dancing together in the soft glow—like a silent promise of something slowly blooming between them.

When they finally returned to campus, the night air was cool and calm. Jiang Wan looked serene, her cheeks still flushed from laughter and warm food.

“Thank you, Han Zaijing,” she said quietly. “Tonight was… really lovely.”

Han Zaijing smiled, her voice soft and sincere. “I’m glad you enjoyed it. Next time, let’s go again—just the two of us.”