Chapter One: A Dead Man Accepted the Order

The man's expression came close to a smile. “Don't poor people call having no way out a choice?” The words struck exactly where intended. Between them lay a bowl of congee and an immeasurable class divide. Jibai left the card untouched and held out his phone. “Confirm delivery first.” The app required a handwritten signature. “You are unusually bold.” “Late orders cost me money.” Shen Yanci—or the man refusing that name—wrote a rough character meaning “words.” The completion chime sounded. Jibai took back his phone. “I sell my time, not my life. By tomorrow, give me the terms and an exit clause. Otherwise, keep your money for a coffin.” He entered the elevator. As the doors closed, a gloved hand stopped them.