On the Route 101 bus, Yao Lingling sat near the rear door, staring blankly out the window.
In her hands were two large bags, and a backpack rested on her shoulders.
Her family lived on the outskirts of Yan City. Two bus transfers were enough to reach her destination, though the remote location made the journey to the Yuhua Business Tower, where Shangya Fashion was based, quite lengthy.
Because of the commute, she and her roommate rented an apartnt in the Star Blossom Garden neighborhood.
A while ago, Zhang Jiahong had moved out. Since then, she had contacted a few schoolmates, two of whom were interested, but their current leases hadn’t expired yet. It wouldn’t be until next month that they could decide whether to move in.
Hearing the bus’s automated announcent for the next stop, Yao Lingling snapped out of her thoughts and quickly stood up, moving toward the door.
The vehicle slowed, doors opened, and she stepped off with her bags.
“Whew~”
A wave of heat surged toward her, and beads of sweat instantly ford on her forehead.
In over 30°C weather, even with an overcast sky, it was both hot and stifling—a truly oppressive combination.
Setting her bags on the ground, Yao Lingling pulled out her phone from the pocket of her jeans. She checked the bus schedule and saw that the next Route 39 bus wouldn’t arrive for another 15 minutes.
Her phone buzzed with a ssage from Li Shumin, asking how much longer she would take.
She quickly calculated the ti and replied with a few short texts.
After that, she opened her chat with Tang Song and left a ssage:
"Senior, I’ll be at the Star Blossom Garden neighborhood in about 50 minutes. I brought so delicious food from ho. Co by early to try it!"
After sending the ssage, she smiled and patted a white tote bag at her feet.
Her family ran a tailoring shop, and this ti she had brought sample clothes and fabric ho to make a couple of extra sets for Tang Song.
For athletic wear, given how much he sweated during runs, it was always better to have extras.
It was her small way of surprising him. After all, her senior had been so kind to her—it was only fair to repay the favor.
While waiting for the bus, she listened to the chatter around her.
Her gaze wandered across the surroundings, and she couldn’t help but sigh, “Su Yu is really coming.”
Bus stop posters, 3D screens, LED billboards, T-shirts worn by pedestrians...
In recent days, walking anywhere in Yan City ant encountering promotions for her everywhere.
After boarding the bus, Yao Lingling soon arrived at the Star Blossom Garden neighborhood.
As she approached Building 8, a familiar figure stepped out from the shade of a tree.
It was Xiao Mingxuan, dressed in trendy casual wear, one hand in his pocket and a bright smile on his face. “Hello, Lingling! What a coincidence running into you here!”
“Pfft—” Yao Lingling couldn’t help but laugh, her eyes curving with amusent. “Co on, this is my building. How is this a coincidence? Be honest—did Minmin tell you I was here?”
“You have no sense of humor,” Xiao Mingxuan said with a shake of his head, extending a hand. “Minmin was worried you’d have trouble carrying all your stuff, so she sent down to help.”
“Alright, thanks,” Yao Lingling replied, handing him a bag filled with fresh produce and cooked food she had brought from ho.
She wasn’t particularly surprised to see Xiao Mingxuan here.
Recently, he and Li Shumin had grown close due to her deliberate efforts to curry favor. They often played gas and had als together.
She had to admit, he was genuinely a nice guy.
Despite being the boss’s son, Xiao Mingxuan was always kind and approachable, treating people more like friends than subordinates.
The two chatted casually as they climbed to the fifth floor.
When they opened the door to Apartnt 501, they were greeted by a sprinting Li Shumin.
“Ah, Lingling, you’re finally back! Two days! Two whole days! I was all alone at night, and it scared so much I couldn’t sleep well!”
With a beaming smile, Xiao Mingxuan teased, “Oh, Minmin, why didn’t you say sothing earlier? I could’ve kept you company. We could’ve even duo-queued with passion at night!”
Li Shumin’s face turned beet red, and she stamred, unable to find a reply.
She had a soft spot for the boss’s son, but knowing her average looks and figure, she didn’t dare express her feelings.
The three of them sat down on the sofa and chatted for a while.
Munching on an apple handed to him by Li Shumin, Xiao Mingxuan smiled and said, “Lingling, actually, I ca over today to discuss sothing with you.”
“What’s that?” Yao Lingling asked, looking at him curiously.
With a snap of his fingers and a slight lean forward, Xiao Mingxuan’s eyes glead with enthusiasm. “This weekend, I had a long talk with my dad. The company is planning to launch a new business unit to relaunch a clothing brand. I’ve been doing well since joining the company, so my dad is handing this project over to .”
He then laid out the company’s business plan.
Shangya Fashion, as it stood, mainly operated mid-to-low-tier brands.
To continue growing, the company needed to move upward.
The new brand would target high-end won’s fashion.
The plan was to assemble the company’s best designers, recruit an industry veteran to lead the team, and focus on creativity and quality rather than mass production or cost-cutting.
The brand would emphasize unique, innovative, and personalized designs, aiming to establish itself as a high-end strategic brand for Shangya through digital marketing and online dia campaigns.
After finishing his pitch, Xiao Mingxuan confidently asked, “So, Lingling, what do you think? Would you consider joining? It’s a fantastic opportunity.”
Beside them, Li Shumin’s heart was pounding, and she wished she could blurt out her acceptance.
Unfortunately, as an assistant with no achievents to her na, she knew she wasn’t on Xiao Mingxuan’s radar.
Yao Lingling, however, lowered her head in thought. After a brief pause, she bit her lip and shook her head.
“Sorry, Mingxuan. I don’t think I’m qualified for sothing like this right now. If I were to jump in, people would talk, and it might affect both you and the company’s reputation.”
As one of Yan City’s leading fashion design companies, Shangya had a strong reputation.
As the sole heir of the company’s boss, Xiao Mingxuan had the authority to make such a project happen.
But Yao Lingling was self-aware. She knew her skills and credentials weren’t yet up to par. If she were forcibly placed into the role, it would undoubtedly draw gossip from colleagues.
She wasn’t blind to Xiao Mingxuan’s interest in her. But since she didn’t feel the sa, she thought it best not to owe him too much—it could lead to choices she might regret later.
“Uh…” Xiao Mingxuan was montarily taken aback by her refusal. After a pause, he said, “How about this? Take so ti to think about it. There’s no rush. We’re still searching for an industry veteran through Deju Renhe, and that probably won’t be finalized until the end of next month.”
Beside them, Li Shumin nudged Yao Lingling with her foot, her face flushed with frustration. “Yeah, yeah, Lingling. You should think it over. Don’t make a snap decision.”
You silly girl!
This is clearly a major project set up by the chairman to groom his son. Massive resources and connections will be invested, and it might even beco Shangya’s flagship brand in the future.
How could you turn down such an incredible chance to rise to the top!?
Yao Lingling was about to say more when Xiao Mingxuan added, “One more thing—Su Yu’s concert is the day after tomorrow. A friend of mine is hosting a celebration at their bar, with a great spot reserved to watch the live broadcast. How about we all go together?”
"Ah? That sounds amazing! We have to go!" Li Shumin exclaid enthusiastically. "Mingxuan, rember to send us the address later."
"OK! I’ll make sure everything’s arranged perfectly for you," Xiao Mingxuan replied with a grin.
Seeing Li Shumin’s excitent, Yao Lingling could only smile and nod. "Thanks, Mingxuan."
She wasn’t a fan of bars and had never been to one before. But having just turned down his earlier offer, she felt it would be rude to refuse again.
The three chatted for a while longer before Xiao Mingxuan checked his phone. He smiled and said, "It’s almost 6 o’clock. I assu it’s fine if I stay for dinner?"
"Of course! You’re more than welco!" Li Shumin said, patting her chest confidently. "I’ll cook for you myself. What do you feel like eating?"
Just then, Xiao Mingxuan’s phone rang.
He glanced at the caller ID, his expression freezing briefly. Apologizing, he stepped out into the hallway to take the call.
A few minutes later, he returned, looking slightly awkward. "Sorry about this, but sothing urgent ca up. I have to go."
Li Shumin’s face instantly fell. "Alright, next ti, then. I’ll make sure to show off my cooking skills."
"Let’s walk you out," Yao Lingling offered, secretly relieved.
This worked out well—Tang Song was coming over soon, and having Xiao Mingxuan here at the sa ti would have been awkward.
The three walked down the stairs together.
When they reached the parking area, Li Shumin’s eyes sparkled at the sight of a Porsche Cayenne parked nearby.
What a perfect guy! she thought.
Xiao Mingxuan was the epito of a tall, rich, and handso man, with a great personality and a strong sense of ambition.
If I could marry soone like him, life would be a dream co true.
"Think about what I ntioned earlier, Lingling. I really admire your character and abilities," Xiao Mingxuan said, opening the driver’s door. "Alright, see you both!"
"Bye, drive safe!"
"Bye-bye~"
Just as he started the car, the hum of a motorcycle engine grew louder in the distance.
A sleek black Ninja 400 approached quickly.
Yao Lingling’s face lit up with joy. She waved enthusiastically and called out, "Senior, over here!"
The motorcycle slowed to a stop beside her.
Tang Song removed his helt, flashing a bright and charming smile. "Good afternoon, Lingling, Minmin."
"Good afternoon, Senior," Yao Lingling replied, stepping forward and naturally taking his helt. "I’ll carry this upstairs for you."
"Senior, you’re here," Li Shumin said, blinking as realization dawned on her. She had a pretty good idea of what Yao Lingling’s feelings were now.
She couldn’t deny it—this senior was undeniably more attractive than Xiao Mingxuan.
Dressed in light, trendy casual wear, Tang Song’s exposed arms showed off his defined, solid muscle lines.
His tall, well-proportioned figure, straight nose, and thin lips exuded a polished, charismatic vibe.
And his arrival on the motorcycle? That was pure coolness and charm.
No wonder Lingling’s taken a liking to him.
The rumble of the Porsche Cayenne starting broke her thoughts.
From inside the car, Xiao Mingxuan leaned out the window. "Hey, buddy, could you let through? I need to head out."
"Sure," Tang Song replied, moving his motorcycle to the side.
As the Porsche disappeared from view, Li Shumin glanced between Tang Song and the now-empty parking spot.
She couldn’t help clicking her tongue.
The senior is amazing, but Xiao Mingxuan isn’t bad either.
If I were the one choosing…
Well, that’s the kind of dilemma that only happens in novels.
Entering the familiar rental apartnt, Yao Lingling placed Tang Song's helt carefully on a shelf and smiled. "Senior, let show you the clothes I made for you."
"Alright!"
Tang Song followed her into the bedroom.
From the corner of the room, Yao Lingling pulled out a large white bag and began taking out neatly folded clothes, her face brimming with excitent.
"Here we go! I had my parents help make two more sets of athletic wear and casual outfits while I was ho. I even made a set of business attire based on the designs you sent before. Everything’s already washed and ready. Try them on! I took detailed asurents of you last ti, so the fit should be perfect."
Looking at the pile of clothes on the bed, Tang Song felt a wave of gratitude.
This junior of his, though they hadn’t known each other for long, was genuinely thoughtful and ticulous when it ca to his needs.
He picked up a set of [Unlimited Vigor] clothes, the light scent of laundry detergent wafting up. He ran his fingers over the neat stitching and said sincerely, "Thank you, Lingling. You’ve put in so much effort."
Yao Lingling smiled brightly and waved her hand dismissively. "Oh, it’s nothing! You’ve helped a lot too, Senior. If you really want to thank , how about taking out for a longer ride on the Ninja 400 later?"
Tang Song nodded cheerfully, eting her gaze. "No problem! I’ll make sure to coach you properly!"
Having absorbed knowledge from the [Motorcycle Riding Skill Book], his riding skills were top-notch.
Their eyes t, and Yao Lingling’s cheeks turned slightly red as she recalled the experience of sitting behind him on his motorcycle the last ti.
"Okay, Senior, you go try on the clothes first. I’ll get dinner started," she said, quickly turning to leave.
"Got it. Thanks, Lingling."
The door clicked shut behind her.
Tang Song changed into the outfit piece by piece: black athletic briefs, a dark gray athletic T-shirt, black athletic shorts, and gray breathable running shoes.
The clothing matched his sketch designs perfectly, from the stitching patterns and decorative details to the buttons and fabric.
The only slight difference was the shoes, which he had purchased separately. Still, the overall look and feel were flawless.
He opened the system interface, navigated to the [Outfit Center], selected [Unlimited Vigor], and equipped it.
An orange glow flashed briefly.
[Current Outfit Fit: 100%. All effects fully activated.]
Instantly, a cool, refreshing sensation washed over him.
2 Stamina, 4 Agility. Get!
Tang Song grinned with excitent. He dropped to the floor to do a few push-ups, savoring the full effects of the [Unlimited Vigor] outfit.
The stamina boost was particularly noticeable, and the sweat-absorbing, breathable material felt amazing.
The difference between 90% and 100% compatibility was only 10%, but he could still feel the improvent—there was probably so hidden buff involved.
After neatly packing the other clothes back into the bag, Tang Song glanced around the small bedroom. This text is hosted at novel※fire
It was about 12 square ters, modestly furnished but ticulously organized, with stickers and wallpaper adding a touch of personality.
His eyes landed on the desk, which was covered with a stack of sketch papers and various drawing tools.
Curious, he flipped through a couple of pages.
The sketches were all clothing designs, including the ones he had sent her.
It was clear that Yao Lingling was a dedicated and thoughtful person.
One particular sketch caught his eye, and he blinked in surprise.
It was a scene from the day they went riding together: a quiet street under lamplight, him in the [Sumr Whispers] outfit astride the dynamic Ninja 400.
Wow, I really do look cool, Tang Song thought, admiring the drawing with a touch of self-indulgence. He snapped a photo of the sketch before carefully placing it back.
Walking out of the bedroom, he was imdiately greeted by the enticing aroma of food.
The hum of the range hood and the rhythmic clatter of the spatula ca from the kitchen.
Tang Song stepped to the doorway and saw Yao Lingling busily cooking.
Sensing his gaze, Yao Lingling turned around, her face lighting up with delight. "The outfit fits perfectly! You look super handso in it!"
"That’s thanks to your skill, Lingling."
"Haha, thanks for the complint!" she said, gesturing to the dishes on the counter. "Dinner’s almost ready. These are all dishes my mom prepared back ho: braised pork, soy-braised beef, spicy chicken, and homade alkaline stead buns. They’re really tasty!"
The aroma wafted through the air, rich and savory.
Watching Yao Lingling work in the kitchen, Tang Song couldn’t help but smile.
She was warm, genuine, and cheerful, radiating a kind of kindness and comfort that made being around her feel effortless.
From the bathroom, Li Shumin erged, grinning. "Lingling’s mom really is a great cook. Back when we were in school, our dormmates used to love visiting her house for als."
Dinner was soon laid out on the table.
The glistening braised pork, rich with a glossy reddish-brown sheen, lted in the mouth—succulent and flavorful without being greasy.
The soy-braised beef, with its firm yet springy texture, had the perfect balance of saltiness and a deep, savory aroma.
The dense alkaline stead buns, a pale yellow in color, carried a subtle alkaline tang that paired beautifully with each bite, growing more fragrant with every chew.
After the al, Tang Song felt completely satisfied.
Looking at the junior sitting across from him, he asked, "Lingling, are you free on Tuesday evening?"
Li Shumin blinked in surprise. "Senior Tang Song, you’re not talking about Su Yu’s concert, are you?"
Yao Lingling’s heart skipped a beat. She thought Tang Song might be asking her out for so fun.
Tang Song nodded with a smile. "Yes, the 2023 Su Yu Concert. Would you like to go?"
Another junior, Zhang Jiahong, lived near the North Second Ring, not far from the Olympic Center. He was curious to see how the three juniors would react to attending the live event.
A cheerful expression spread across Yao Lingling’s face. "Yes, I’m free! I don’t think anyone will have the energy to work overti that day—we’ll all be thinking about the concert anyway."
Compared to going to a bar with Xiao Mingxuan, she much preferred spending ti with her handso and gentle senior watching the live stream.
Seeing Yao Lingling’s excitent, Li Shumin bit her lip.
If Lingling wasn’t interested in going to the bar with Xiao Mingxuan, she supposed she could "reluctantly" enjoy the experience herself!
"Attention, Senior!" Li Shumin said seriously. "I’ve already made plans with my colleagues to hang out at the bar that night. I hope you two have a great ti."
"Oh, alright," Tang Song replied, nodding. "What about Jiahong?"
Yao Lingling chuckled. "She’s a die-hard Su Yu fan. I asked her earlier, and she’s planning to cheer outside the stadium that night."
"Perfect," Tang Song said. "Wait here for a mont."
He stood up, walked to the entryway, and retrieved two invitation tickets from his backpack. He placed them in front of Yao Lingling.
"These are two consecutive seat tickets. You and Jiahong can go together and keep each other company," he said.
"Huh?" Yao Lingling froze, confused. "What do you an?"
Her eyes widened as realization struck, and her body began to tremble slightly. "These… No way. These are… concert tickets?"
Tang Song nodded. "Yep. Just scan the QR code to redeem the electronic tickets. They’re VIP inner-circle seats, very close to the stage. Enjoy!"
Beside her, Li Shumin stared blankly for a mont before snatching up one of the invitations.
Reading the text on the card, her face turned red, then pale, then cold as ice.
Tang Song wasn’t joking—he really ant the concert.
And these weren’t just any tickets. They were Su Yu’s VIP concert tickets for the inner-circle section, priced at 2,688 yuan each.
But the value wasn’t just monetary. These tickets were nearly impossible to buy. Invitations like these were typically reserved for partners, celebrities, or industry insiders.
If soone were to sell one of these online, the price could easily multiply tenfold.
"This… this is too much," Yao Lingling stamred, shaking her head furiously. "I can’t accept this, Senior. Don’t scare like that."
Tang Song looked at her earnestly. "You’ve made so many clothes for , and I had your mom’s wonderful cooking today. I’m really grateful. Please, take them."
Yao Lingling’s head spun, leaving her unsure of what to say.
anwhile, Li Shumin’s lips quivered as she blurted, "S-Senior, how on earth did you get these invitations?"
Even soone like Xiao Mingxuan, a rich second-generation kid, could only watch the concert live-stream from a bar outside the venue.
Yet this "ordinary-looking" senior sohow managed to secure such prestigious connections?
Tang Song raised his eyebrows with a bright smile. "Su Yu is my girlfriend. She gave the invitations."
Su Yu would be arriving in Yan City tomorrow afternoon. The day after, she’d be eting with her agent, Mo Xiangwan, and preparing for the concert.
As for this [celebrity] he had cultivated in the ga, Tang Song couldn’t help but feel a rush of excitent.
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