One evening, Roy spotted her sitting alone at a bustling food stall. She looked exhausted, her shoulders slumped as she quietly picked at her bowl of noodles. Unable to resist the chance to see her again, Roy approached and sat down directly opposite her, flashing a friendly smile.

"Mind if I join you?" he asked, already signaling the waiter to bring him a bowl of the same noodles. She looked clearly irritated but too tired to argue.

As his food arrived, Roy wasted no time. "You know," he began, picking up his chopsticks, "I'm still serious about my offer. Seven months as my girlfriend, and I'll clear your father's debt. It's a good deal."

Roy leaned forward, undeterred. "Why make it hard on yourself? You'd be rid of that burden. Seven months isn't that long." He tried to catch her eyes, his tone softening. "I promise I won't do anything you don't want. Just pretend for a while, and your father can rest easy."