The Price Of Ambition (Yizhan)

Chapter 2

Chapter 2

As Yibo woke up, his mind was fresh and clear. He had reached a conclusion after careful consideration. He knew his father too well - he always got what he wanted. Yibo realized he had to make a choice: give up on his dream or give up on the marriage. He couldn't let things go wrong, and surrendering his dream wasn't an option.

At breakfast, his father didn't mention the marriage proposal, so Yibo took the initiative. "Dad, can I ask something?" he said, leading his father to the sofa.

"How do you know Xiao Zhan's family?"

Mr. Wang smiled, "His father and I were high school friends, but we lost touch until we met again as adults. And some years back i heard his death, I attended his funeral and helped his family financially.

Later, I met his mother and...well, let's just say I got there too late to help. Xiao Zhan and his mother were in debt, and I helped them out.

That's when I discovered his...condition."

Yibo's eyes widened, "And that's when you thought of marrying him to me?" Mr. Wang chuckled, "No, that thought had been in my head for a while. Xiao Zhan is intelligent and talented. His mother was hesitant at first, but I convinced her. She agreed, and the rest is up to you, Son."

Yibo smirked, "Dad, if you love him so much, why not consider marrying him yourself? I don't mind having a little brother or sister to raise when you're older." Mr. Wang playfully smacked his head, "You sneaky son, how can you say such an absurd thing? I'm 52 years old, and I see Xiao Zhan as a son."

He paused, "Besides, I've always loved your mother. If you still love her, why did you let her go?" Yibo's curiosity was piqued, Mr. Wang leaned back into the sofa, "It was her wish to be free again, and I just signed the papers." He shrugged nonchalantly.

Yibo chuckled, "I was just joking, Dad." Then back to our deal.

Yibo thought it was a simple arrangement - marry Xiao Zhan, impregnate him, and then they could divorce and go their separate ways. The CEO position would be his, and he smiled at the prospect.

I will marry him Dad.

His father beamed with pride, kissing his forehead, which made Yibo uncomfortable. Mr. Wang laughed at his son's irritated expression.

Two days earlier, Xiao Zhan returned from his studio to find his mother sitting on the couch, crying. He rushed to her side, concern etched on his face. "Maa, what's wrong? Are you okay?" He grabbed her hands, trying to comfort her. When she didn't respond, he asked if their grandmother was okay, worried about her health.

His mother wiped away her tears and took a deep breath.

"A'Zhan, I've done something terrible to you. You remember Mr. Wang, your father's old friend?" Xiao Zhan's confusion grew as she continued. "He cleared our debts, and in return, he asked for your hand in marriage." Xiao Zhan's eyes widened in disbelief. "But Maa, everyone knows he has two sons, the first son is happily married and the second one is still single.

Does he have a legitimate daughter?"

His mother avoided his gaze, and Xiao Zhan's confusion turned to shock. "You.. mean Wang Yibo, the icy cold one?" His mother nodded, tears streaming down her face again. "I'm so sorry, son. I didn't mean to put you in this position. Your sister is already married, and your brother has a fiancée. You're the only option."

Xiao Zhan felt like his world was crashing down.

He was being asked to marry a man he didn't know, a man known for his cold demeanor. He hugged his mother, trying to comfort her despite his own turmoil. "It's okay, Maa. I'll do anything for this family's happiness. I'll marry whoever you want me to."