Villain: Manipulating the Heroines into hating the Protagonist
Chapter Summary
InnovateX Solutions, his rising multinational conglomerate, had just established its European headquarters here, marking another milestone in its rapid expansion. Throughout the night, Wang Jian skillfully moved between the two sisters, making sure to maintain their attention without either feeling neglected. Globex Technologies had enlisted the help of politicians to impose regulatory hurdles on InnovateX, while Apex Industries continued buying out competitors to strangle Elegance Global's mark...
Wang Jian sat in the luxurious conference room in Madrid, overlooking the bustling city from one of the highest corporate towers.
InnovateX Solutions, his rising multinational conglomerate, had just established its European headquarters here, marking another milestone in its rapid expansion.
At his side, Jessica skimmed through contracts, her brow furrowed in concentration.
"I don't understand why these investors are hesitating," she muttered, a trace of frustration in her voice.
"We've shown them the data, the projections.
They know how much potential we have.
What's holding them back?
"Wang Jian leaned back in his chair, smiling slightly as he tapped his fingers on the table.
"They're waiting to see if we can survive the competition," he replied calmly.
"The bigger we get, the more we're going to be noticed by powerful players—some of whom want to see us fail.
"Jessica glanced up at him, her eyes filled with concern.
"Are we being targeted?
""Without a doubt," Wang Jian said, his gaze drifting to the city below.
"Companies like ours disrupt the balance.
Globex Technologies, Novatek Holdings, Apex Industries—each of them sees us as a threat.
They're already making moves to slow us down.
"Jessica clenched her fists.
"Who are these companies exactly?
"Wang Jian rose and walked toward the large window, his voice measured and calm.
"Globex Technologies dominates Europe's cybersecurity market.
They see InnovateX as competition.
Novatek Holdings, a global logistics giant, has been blocking Lumina Lifestyle's supply chains, trying to stifle our growth.
And then there's Apex Industries—an industrial conglomerate with deep pockets.
They're quietly buying out competitors of Elegance Global.
"Jessica let out a sigh, frustration lining her features.
"So, we're surrounded.
"Wang Jian nodded, but his expression remained untroubled.
"That's the price of success.
But we're not without our own resources.
Our expansion is outpacing theirs, and we have connections in places they haven't anticipated.
"As if on cue, Bella's voice came through the speakerphone from New York.
"Jian, we've got intel that Leon Devereux is lobbying French officials to block our expansion into their market.
He's working behind the scenes, trying to cut us off.
"Wang Jian's eyes narrowed slightly.
"I expected as much.
Leon won't stop until he's exhausted every avenue.
Keep our contacts in France in the loop.
We'll make sure our connections there are too strong for him to undermine.
"Bella chuckled lightly.
"Already ahead of you.
Just wanted to keep you updated.
"Jessica sighed again, running a hand through her hair.
"This is overwhelming.
I didn't realize how intense the business world could be.
"Wang Jian's gaze softened as he looked at her.
"It's like war.
Only the toughest make it through.
But remember, we've come this far together.
You've been key to our success, and we're not backing down.
"Jessica smiled, her confidence slowly returning.
"You're right.
We'll handle this.
"As they continued discussing strategy, a notification buzzed on Wang Jian's phone.
It was from one of his local contacts in Madrid, informing him about a prestigious royal gala happening that evening.
The event, hosted by the Spanish monarchy, would gather the elite of Europe, from politicians to business moguls.
Most importantly, it offered an opportunity to mingle with Spain's royal family—specifically, Princess Mariana and her younger sister, Princess Valeria.
Wang Jian's mind immediately went to work.
This could be an opportunity.
He turned to Jessica and Emma.
"I'll be attending an event tonight that could open some doors for us in Spain.
You two stay here and keep the business running smoothly while I handle the...
networking.
"Jessica raised an eyebrow.
"A royal gala?
"Wang Jian smiled.
"Exactly.
And the Spanish royal family has considerable influence, especially the two princesses.
"Emma tilted her head, intrigued.
"You're going to charm royalty now?
"Wang Jian's smile widened.
"It's all part of the plan.
"That evening, Wang Jian arrived at the Palacio Real de Madrid, the sprawling palace gleaming under the evening lights.
A sea of black-tie elegance greeted him as he stepped out of his car, the red carpet leading up the marble steps, where Europe's elite gathered for the royal gala.
His tailored tuxedo clung perfectly to his athletic frame as he moved with effortless confidence.
Inside, the grand ballroom was a vision of opulence.
Crystal chandeliers sparkled overhead, and tables were adorned with the finest wines and delicacies.
Scanning the room, Wang Jian quickly spotted his targets—the two princesses, Mariana and Valeria.
Princess Mariana, the elder of the two at twenty-four, had a commanding presence.
She wore a stunning midnight blue gown that highlighted her curvaceous figure, the fabric hugging her hourglass silhouette.
Her long, raven-black hair cascaded over her bare shoulders, and her dark eyes were captivating, exuding both grace and strength.
Beside her stood Princess Valeria, slightly shorter and younger at twenty-two, with a body just as voluptuous.
Her emerald green dress shimmered under the chandeliers, accentuating her full bust and narrow waist.
Her blonde curls framed her delicate face, giving her a softer, more innocent appearance compared to her older sister.
Wang Jian observed them from a distance at first, calculating his approach.
His chance came when Mariana stepped away from the crowd, standing by the balcony and gazing out at the city below.
With practiced ease, Wang Jian approached her, his deep voice cutting through the quiet night air.
"A breathtaking view, isn't it?
"Mariana turned to him, her eyes scanning him with curiosity.
"It certainly is," she said, her voice smooth, laced with intrigue.
"Though, I don't believe we've met.
""Wang Jian," he introduced himself, offering his hand.
"I'm in town on business—perhaps you've heard of InnovateX Solutions or Lumina Lifestyle?
"Mariana's eyes widened slightly in recognition, her lips curving into a small smile.
"I have.
InnovateX has been making waves in the tech industry, hasn't it?
"Wang Jian smiled.
"We've been fortunate.
And may I say, Your Highness, you're even more stunning in person than any portrait could capture.
"Mariana laughed softly, a genuine sound that made her eyes sparkle.
"Flattery will get you everywhere, Mr.
Jian.
"Wang Jian leaned in slightly, lowering his voice.
"I prefer to be honest when I'm impressed.
"Their conversation flowed smoothly, Wang Jian deftly steering it toward topics that engaged Mariana's intellect—politics, art, and the changing landscape of European economics.
His charm, combined with his confidence, seemed to enthrall her.
She leaned closer as the evening progressed, clearly intrigued by the charismatic businessman.
Meanwhile, Wang Jian made sure to strategically engage with Princess Valeria as well.
He found her alone near a grand display of paintings, admiring the artwork.
"You have an eye for beauty," Wang Jian said softly, stepping beside her.
Valeria turned, her delicate features lighting up as she smiled.
"I do love art.
There's something timeless about it.
"Wang Jian glanced at the painting she was studying before turning his gaze back to her.
"I'd say the same about you, Princess.
"Valeria blushed slightly, her blue eyes widening in surprise.
"You're quite the charmer, Mr...?
""Wang Jian," he said with a warm smile.
"And I only speak the truth.
"Valeria giggled, her posture relaxing as they continued to talk.
While she was more shy and reserved than her sister, Wang Jian's gentle, engaging manner quickly won her over.
He complimented her taste in art, discussed his travels, and subtly mentioned the influence his companies were gaining in Europe.
Throughout the night, Wang Jian skillfully moved between the two sisters, making sure to maintain their attention without either feeling neglected.
He complimented Mariana's intelligence and elegance, while with Valeria, he emphasized her sweetness and artistic soul.
Both women found themselves drawn to his unique blend of sophistication and confidence.
As the night drew to a close, Mariana smiled warmly at Wang Jian.
"You've certainly made an impression tonight.
"Wang Jian returned her smile, his eyes gleaming.
"I'm glad to hear that, Your Highness.
I hope this isn't the last time we meet.
"Valeria, standing nearby, blushed as she echoed her sister's sentiments.
"I'd like that too.
"Wang Jian's smirk was subtle but triumphant.
He knew that he had made sure neither princess would soon forget him.
Meanwhile, across Europe and beyond, Wang Jian's business empire continued to face mounting pressure.
Novatek Holdings was increasing its efforts to block Lumina Lifestyle's expansion by spreading false rumors about their sourcing practices.
Globex Technologies had enlisted the help of politicians to impose regulatory hurdles on InnovateX, while Apex Industries continued buying out competitors to strangle Elegance Global's market share.
Despite the challenges, Wang Jian remained undeterred.
He was playing a long game, and his moves in Spain were just the beginning of his broader strategy.
By ingratiating himself with the Spanish royal family, he had gained powerful allies in Europe—connections that could tip the balance in his favor.
As he left the gala that night, Wang Jian couldn't help but smile to himself.
The game was far from over, and he had just added two new pieces to his board.