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."

In fact, he respected her and admired her success. But he didn't feel romantic love toward

stood still, gazing at him in silence. After a few moments, she

good project comes up, I'd still

you think of Yantail. I hope we'll work together again—and that it'll be a great

Ms. Hayward shook it with a composed smile,

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

was so accomplished, her future partner had to be even more impressive. She

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

married. Many were over

why she had