《Cash Rules Everything: My Infinite Wallet》

"M-Mrs. Manager?!"

Liu Feiyan's face flushed crimson at Lu Yuan's words. Her eyes darted toward him briefly before she nervously tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear. "Mr. Lu, if there's nothing else... I should go," she murmured, her voice trembling.

The unconscious grace of her gesture, steeped in mature femininity, sent an electric jolt through Lu Yuan's chest.

"Wait!" he blurted out.

Pausing mid-step, she kept her gaze lowered. "Did you need something else, Mr. Lu?"

"Well, I..." Trapped by his own impulse, Lu Yuan faltered. Could he admit his sudden attraction had stirred more than just conversation?

A deeper blush spread across Liu Feiyan's cheeks as she misinterpreted his hesitation. Shooting him a watery glance, she turned hastily toward the door. In her flustered state, her foot caught on the carpet. With a startled cry, she stumbled to the floor.

All inappropriate thoughts vanished as Lu Yuan rushed to her side. "Are you hurt?" he asked, helping her up with steady hands.

"N-no, I'm fine," she stammered, overwhelmed by the warmth of his grip. His masculine scent enveloped her, making her pulse race.

"Try walking slowly. Let me support you."

Oblivious to her turmoil, Lu Yuan slid one arm around her shoulders while steadying her elbow. The contact burned through her blouse as she tested her weight on the injured ankle.

A sharp inhale escaped her when her toes touched ground.

"Does it hurt badly?"

"Manageable," she whispered through gritted teeth, gradually lowering her foot. Each millimeter increased the throbbing, but she forced a relieved smile once fully grounded. "It's okay, I—"

Their heads turned simultaneously.

Softness met softness.

Time froze as their lips brushed in accidental contact.

Liu Feiyan recoiled as if shocked, her retreat hampered by the injured foot. Lu Yuan instinctively pulled her back, sending her crashing against his chest.

Their startled gazes locked—her widened eyes reflecting his own surprise.

"Y-you should release me," she breathed, the protest lacking conviction. Her palms pressed weakly against his shirt, face aflame.

"Right! Sorry!" Lu Yuan loosened his grip but kept protective hands hovering. "Careful—don't aggravate the injury."

The air thickened with unspoken tension as they stood inches apart. Liu Feiyan's fingers rose to trace her tingling lips, the ghost of contact awakening long-dormant sensations.

"I...I need to sit," she finally managed, breaking the spell.

"Of course!" Lu Yuan dragged over an armchair, ignoring her protests. "Ankle injuries can worsen if neglected. Here—" His palms pressed gently on her shoulders, guiding her down.

"Thank you," she mumbled, smoothing imaginary wrinkles from her skirt. "Really, this isn't necessary..."

"Nonsense. My fault for startling you earlier." He moved to the minibar. "What would you like? Juice? Tea?"

"Just sparkling water, please." She chose the cheapest option, clutching the chilled bottle like a lifeline when he returned.

As condensation dripped onto her lap, Lu Yuan cleared his throat. "Ms. Liu, about what happened—"

"I'm married!" The words erupted like a dam breaking.

Silence.

Color drained from Liu Feiyan's face as she registered her outburst. "Forgive me, Mr. Lu. That was...inappropriate."

"Actually, you anticipated correctly." Lu Yuan's smile held rueful charm. "I should apologize—my behavior crossed lines, not knowing your marital status."

Her throat tightened. This handsome, wealthy client admitting attraction should repulse her. Yet part of her preened under the admiration. "I...appreciate your candor. But my husband and I..." The lie tasted bitter. "We're committed."

"Understood." He inclined his head, sincerity softening his features. "May we at least remain friends?"

The tension dissolved as Liu Feiyan's lips curved. "Mr. Lu, surely it's me who should beg friendship with a tycoon like you?"

Their shared laughter cleansed the lingering awkwardness, though her fingertips still tingled where they'd touched his collar.