- Su Wan (Protagonist 1): A resilient, filial graduate of a prestigious university from an ordinary background. When her mother becomes seriously ill, she signs a contract marriage with Lu Tingyuan. Through hard work, she later becomes a business partner in his company and ultimately finds true love, growing from a dependent partner into an independent, confident companion.
- Lu Tingyuan (Protagonist 2): The aloof but warmhearted CEO of the Shengshi Group, with a possessive streak. At first, he chooses a contract marriage to fend off his family’s pressure. He gradually grows fond of Su Wan’s kindness and resilience, transforming from someone who merely fulfills the terms of a contract into someone who sincerely protects her, willing to stand up to his family and outside pressure for her.
- Key supporting characters:
- Old Madam Lu: Lu Tingyuan’s mother. Initially concerned with family status and opposed to Su Wan, she is later moved by their genuine feelings and sets aside her prejudice to accept her daughter-in-law.
- Jiang Ruotong: A wealthy heiress with a crush on Lu Tingyuan. Jealous of Su Wan, she repeatedly schemes to frame her, but eventually suffers the consequences and is sent away by her family.
- Lu Zi'ang/Lu Yuwei: Lu Tingyuan’s younger siblings. They initially ostracize Su Wan, but later recognize her abilities and sincerity and come to support the couple.
- Lin Zhou: Lu Tingyuan’s loyal and reliable assistant. He helps with work and also gives the couple a hand by conveying their feelings and coordinating matters.
- Su Wan’s mother: A gentle, kind woman and Su Wan’s emotional anchor. She indirectly brings about the contract marriage and helps bring the couple closer.
II. Summary of the Story’s Main Appeal
1. The surprising appeal of a contract marriage: Their marriage begins as a deal in which each gets what they need, without the cliché of love at first sight. Instead, they gradually fall for each other through daily life and facing crises together, making the transition from “pretending” to “genuine feelings” feel natural and detailed.
