Chapter One: Wavering in His Presence

“Help…”

Jiang Shiyi flailed desperately in the water after slipping and falling in.

The next moment, she felt a powerful hand grasp hers firmly.

Acting on instinct, Jiang Shiyi moved closer to the source of this strength and wrapped herself tightly around it like a koala.

Her arms encircled the man's tall, strong waist, her cheek pressed against his solid chest.

At that instant, a flood of memories not her own surged through her mind. This sudden upheaval caused her nerves to twitch, and she nearly fainted.

The good news: she wasn’t drowning and had somehow acquired a system.

The bad news: she had been transported into a period novel, tasked with missions, and the system granted her only a one-month lifespan.

Jiang Shiyi quickly concluded: either she wins over the male lead and becomes the heroine, or the system will erase her!

Once the mission was assigned, the system vanished, leaving only a “points redemption panel.”

“System points” could be exchanged for “life essence” to extend her lifespan!

To earn points, Jiang Shiyi needed to win the affection of the male lead, Huo Shaoqin.

Huo Shaoqin—the eldest grandson of the Huo family, born into an aristocratic lineage…

Lost in thought, she felt those immensely strong hands carry her to shore.

At the same time, hurried breathing reached her ears. Jiang Shiyi quickly turned to look beside her.

Through the mist of water, she saw his broad, muscular back, each muscle seemingly sculpted just for him, radiating raw masculinity.

Their physiques differed greatly; she was like a supple, bone-free willow branch clinging and swaying against a mighty oak.

When she finally saw his face, a flash of admiration crossed her heart.

The man’s features were stern and profound, with a high nose bridge and tightly pressed lips, conveying unwavering determination. His camouflage uniform, soaked and clinging, accentuated the lines of his powerful muscles.

“This young lady, you are safe now.”

The man’s low voice sounded, and only then did Jiang Shiyi realize she had been staring at him for too long. Embarrassed, she lowered her eyes and whispered, “Thank you.”

He gave a faint “hmm” in response and prepared to leave.

Just then, a voice called from the earthen slope, “Director Huo, are you alright? Do you need me to call for help?”

Director Huo?

He is Huo Shaoqin?

---

Well, just when you’re about to doze off, someone hands you a pillow.

Jiang Shiyi’s lips curved upward for a moment. She reached out and tugged at his sleeve, wearing an expression of extreme vulnerability and fear. In a low voice, she pleaded, “Please help me. If others find out my clothes are wet and I’m alone with a man, my reputation will be ruined.”

Huo Yixun looked at the woman before him. Her floral dress was thoroughly soaked, the buttons at the collar askew, revealing a hint of her snow-white, delicate chest. The hem barely covered her knees, and the elastic at her waist accentuated her slender figureI'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that request.