Harem Tycoon System

Chapter 17: An Offer Too Good to Refuse

"Tell me your name? Let me repay your kindness. I have many resources to give you anything you want, Mister...?" the woman asked, hesitant yet eager.

"No need," Lucas replied casually, already stepping away. "I don’t want you to feel indebted to me. So... maybe it’s better if we don’t know each other’s names."

He paused for a moment, glancing briefly at the woman he had just saved, then added, "I have to go, Miss. There are things I still need to take care of."

But before his steps could truly take him away, the sound of high-end engines roared from the road. A convoy of sleek black cars entered the smoke-filled and debris-littered area. The crowd that had been watching quickly backed away. Their curiosity was replaced with wariness—as the suited men stepping out of the cars resembled the mafia.

Lucas tensed. His thoughts immediately returned to his bad encounter with Rico and those dark-suited thugs. Was this another problem?

But instead of armed brutes, a middle-aged woman with gray hair stepped out. She wore a simple gray business suit, tidy and composed—too calm for a scene like this. She walked swiftly and bowed politely in front of Lucas.

"Thank you," she said with formal yet firm tone. "I’m Mauren, chief assistant to the Night family. I heard you saved our young lady from the fire. We deeply appreciate your actions."

Lucas frowned. He didn’t expect the name ‘Night’ to be tied to such a renowned family. One of the four wealthiest and most influential dynasties in the state. Just hearing their name was enough to make most businessmen tremble.

But Ethan, now the soul inside Lucas, wasn’t impressed. There was no urgency or interest in the Night family.

"Sorry," Lucas said calmly. "I don’t want anything. I helped your young lady because of the situation—not for any reward."

Mauren seemed surprised but kept her professional composure. "At the very least—we can provide you with funds, medical assistance, or additional security if you—"

Lucas raised his hand, gently declining. "Thank you, but I’m fine."

Lucas’s refusal shocked everyone present. No one had ever turned down the Night family. Most people would have swarmed them for a chance at support. Some onlookers even scoffed at Lucas, calling him foolish.

The Night family is one of the oldest and most influential business dynasties in the state. Known as modern aristocrats, they possess generational wealth and influence that extends beyond the legal world—deep into gray and underground dealings.

In the legal business world, the Night family controls several major conglomerates in pharmaceuticals, real estate, security tech, and media. They hold majority shares in elite private hospitals, international hotel chains, and leading biotech companies. Known for conservative corporate governance but aggressive market expansion, many government projects and international partnerships can’t escape their reach—directly or through shadow firms.

Behind their legal empire, however, the name Night is also infamous in illegal circles. Through shadow networks, they are rumored to engage in intelligence trade, private armed security, and even control of black markets for f*******n tech and experimental weapons. All conducted with unmatched secrecy and near-untouchable legal protection.

Their power isn’t just wealth—it’s also political influence. They have "insiders" in parliament, the judiciary, and law enforcement. Threats against them mysteriously disappear, and business rivals often go bankrupt, vanish, or suddenly become obedient partners.

Amidst all this, Isadora Night—the sole heir—seeks to build her own identity, free from her family’s shadow. But the question is: can anyone ever escape a dynasty that dominates both sides of the law?

Just as Lucas was about to leave, a calm yet captivating voice came from behind Mauren.

"In that case... how about working for me?"

Lucas turned.

Isadora Night stood tall, though still visibly exhausted. She had changed into a long coat, her hair tied neatly despite soot on her cheeks. Her commanding presence was undeniable. Her voice, soft yet sharp.

"I believe you’re not after money," Isadora continued. "But I see potential in you. You were calm in crisis, quick to act, and not greedy. That’s rare."

Lucas remained silent.

"So," Isadora said again, "be my personal bodyguard. I’ll pay you well. Full facilities. Complete freedom to protect me your way. Are you interested?"

Lucas was ready to decline. Ethan inside him was uneasy with the idea of working under anyone—especially a woman, no matter how beautiful and rich. But before he could refuse, a system screen suddenly appeared in the corner of his vision:

[Mission Alert: ACTIVE!]

Title: Conquer Harem Target #2 - Isadora Night

Status: Awaiting Interaction

Next Requirement: Gain Full Trust from Target.

Note: Target has access to funding solutions for AegisMed acquisition.

Lucas nearly cursed out loud.

"Damn... This system is really trapping me," he muttered. "Looks like it’s never going to let me escape these problems."

Ethan didn’t understand why he had to do this—work for a woman, just to make her fall in love? It was beyond logic. But logic didn’t apply to the system he received.

Isadora eyed Lucas curiously. She knew this man wasn’t easily swayed. That only made her more interested. A man like Lucas had pride. He didn’t beg for money, even refused a reward from the Night family. But maybe... he wouldn’t reject a job.

"I’m serious," Isadora said softly. "I’m not paying you for saving me. I’m offering you a job because I trust you. And... because I’m trying to live independently."

Lucas turned.

"I still live with my parents," Isadora added. "As an only child, they’re overprotective. I want to build my own business, escape their shadow. But they’ll only let me go if I have a personal bodyguard they trust."

She sighed. "And now... I’ve found him."

Lucas just stood frozen.

The system blinked again.

[Note: If Target places full trust—Special Financial Access Unlocked] [AegisMed Acquisition: Funding will be accessible through the Night family if Target is successfully approached]

Ethan—Lucas—closed his eyes. This wasn’t just about seduction. It was about saving a major project from collapse.

"So, Mister?" Isadora asked gently. "Do you accept?"

Lucas opened his eyes and simply said…