Love at First Novel by Gu Lingfei

River continued, "In fact, you're better than a lot of rich daughters out there. You built your success from scratch—and that's something I truly admire.”

Ms. Hayward had gone from a small mountain village to being worth tens of millions. She lived in a villa, drove a luxury car, had millions in savings, and lived life on her own terms.

River had also heard she bought a small villa for her parents and siblings in their hometown.

She helped her family to a reasonable degree. Though her brothers and nephews wanted more, she stayed clear-headed. She didn't let them drain her financially- and she didn't turn bitter either.

"And about Romina," River added, "we're rivals. Everyone in Eaglioncile knows that. So, Ms. Hayward, it's better not to say things that could be misunderstood." Ms. Hayward replied, "River, maybe you don't realize it, but the way you look at Romina-it's different. Sure, you're enemies, but there's admiration there too." River's eyes flickered. "Maybe you're right. People involved in something often can't see clearly, while outsiders see the truth. If I really do feel differently about her, I might not even know it myself. But since you see it so clearly-why chase after someone whose heart isn't with you?"

He looked at her seriously. "You're a friend, and a business partner. We can make money together-but we can't be lovers."

and admired her success. But he didn't feel romantic love

at him in silence. After

she said. "Let's stay friends. And if a good project comes up,

Hayward. I appreciate how highly you think of Yantail. I hope we'll work

extended his hand. Ms. Hayward shook it with

man. But River didn't feel the same, and she had to accept that. She had tried-and failed. No need to push it any

With her strengths, she'd definitely meet someone worthy. But because she was so accomplished, her future partner had

if there was no one like that, she'd rather

business world, 98% of successful CEOs were already married. Many were over fifty. The younger ones were in their early forties —and single men in their thirties were

why she had fallen