Fake marriages don't need to be so spoiled
- No ratings yet
- 33
- 40
- 0
- 4d ago
Synopsis
Song Jiqing suffers from chronic insomnia, a burden that only eases in the presence of a specific stranger. After returning from a year of educational service in the countryside, he discovers the person he trusted has betrayed him. In the wake of this heartbreak, a chance encounter leads to a marriage of convenience with Cheng Mu. While the arrangement begins as a cold contract, the dynamic shifts as the stoic exterior of the new husband crumbles. Cheng Mu reveals a surprising, needy side, negotiating for small moments of physical intimacy and hugs just to find peace at night. The prose maintains a gentle, domestic atmosphere, focusing on the slow thawing of emotional barriers rather than high-stakes drama. This soft approach rewards those seeking a low-stress, affectionate romance where the tension comes from mutual vulnerability. However, the lack of intense conflict may frustrate those who prefer a more volatile or plot-driven progression. The story evolves into a study of unexpected comfort and the healing power of companionship.
📚 Chapters (40 total)
Ratings & Reviews
Rate this novel
Tap a star to rate
Editorial Review
At forty chapters, this is a concise completion that doesn't overstay its welcome. The primary strength lies in the characterization of Cheng Mu; the contrast between his indifferent public face and his private desperation for affection creates a charming core for the relationship. It avoids the common pitfall of dragging out misunderstandings, opting instead for a straightforward path toward domesticity. On the downside, the brevity of the work means the initial catalyst—the betrayal by the previous love interest—is barely explored, serving more as a plot device to push the protagonist into the marriage than a fully realized emotional arc. This leaves some of the early character motivations feeling slightly underdeveloped. Nevertheless, it functions well as a short, sweet urban romance. The focus on sleep and physical proximity provides a consistent thread that ties the emotional growth together without needing excessive world-building or complex subplots.