Jiang Luxi, a former overworked office employee who died in the ICU, transmigrates into the body of a cannon-fodder supporting female character in the novel "The Tycoon's Palm Jewel." In the original story, this character obsessively pursues the male lead, is tortured by him, and is ultimately killed. Realizing her imminent death, Jiang Luxi attempts to flee her family, but they commit her to a psychiatric hospital instead. While intoxicated at a bar, she stumbles into the private room of Huo Jin Ge, the novel's deranged antagonist known for his brutal nature and severe, worsening headaches. During one of his painful episodes, Jiang Luxi's unique, soothing fragrance calms him, and he orders his subordinates to take her to his estate rather than discard her.
At the Huo estate, Jiang Luxi discovers that Huo Jin Ge is digging graves in the backyard. Terrified, she is forced to dig one herself under his command. However, Huo Jin Ge reveals his true intention: he has brought her to the estate to serve as a living remedy for his chronic headaches. Her scent alleviates his pain, and he intends to keep her as a captive "pet" until she can no longer help him. Jiang Luxi, aware of her weak position, attempts to survive by playing along with his demands while secretly plotting an escape. She is subjected to forced labor, including digging holes and planting trees, but also receives material comforts such as money for shopping and high-end clothing, which she uses to save funds for a potential future escape.
The core conflict arises from Jiang Luxi's dual reality: she knows the plot of the novel and fears the male lead, Mo Yan, who is hunting her, while simultaneously being held by the villain Huo Jin Ge. Her mental state is fragile, exacerbated by the trauma of her past life and the terrifying environment of the Huo estate. She experiences delusions and panic attacks, particularly after witnessing her captors dispose of a body, leading to a confrontation where she calls the police. Huo Jin Ge handles the police with ease, reinforcing his power and her helplessness.
A key turning point occurs when Huo Jin Ge suffers a severe headache episode at his office and rushes back to the estate. He forces his way into Jiang Luxi's room and kisses her to relieve his pain. The physical contact and her scent provide immediate relief, confirming her value to him. Afterward, he allows her to sleep in his bed and tends to her injured lips, showing a complex mix of possessiveness and unexpected care. Despite this, Jiang Luxi remains fearful, viewing Huo Jin Ge as a necessary evil compared to the fate awaiting her from the male lead. The story follows her struggle to maintain her sanity and life while trapped in the villain's orbit, navigating his unpredictable moods and the looming threat of the novel's original plot.
