

Ruby and Steven fell in love in high school but separated due to family feuds. Ruby initiated the breakup; Steven agreed, believing she'd discovered his father's role in her father's death. Afterward, Steven changed his surname to Gibson, founded Gibson Tech, while Ruby became a freelance writer. Though never contacting her, Steven monitored Ruby's life, learning of her workplace harassment resignation and continued single status. Now successful, he orchestrates her business trip to the city of Syntherra. They reunite, but Ruby mistakenly thinks he's married and withdraws. Even after clearing this misunderstanding, unresolved family conflicts keep her distant. Steven persists, proposing cohabitation without publicity and dating without marriage discussions. Still deeply in love, Ruby succumbs to his gentle persistence, agreeing to a short-term relationship.

After discovering her relationship with the school heartthrob was merely a $500 bet, the timid Oliver has a one-night stand with a mysterious stranger. Her world is turned upside down the next day when he transfers into her class. He's not just an Olympic gold medalist; he's the boy whose life she ruined by reporting him in their childhood.