Saturday, July 22, 2023. Cloudy. 23–29°C.
At 5 a.m., Tang Song awoke from a restful sleep.
Thanks to the quality of his rest, he felt fully recharged and at his peak.
This past week, Tang Song had been working at full capacity during the day to avoid wasting any study ti. He had already read 15 books, covering topics such as economics, finance, and managent.
The knowledge he had gained clearly enhanced his personal growth. Beyond sharpening his cognitive abilities, he had also begun to build a professional knowledge system of his own.
He now had a clearer understanding of macroeconomic fluctuations, the impact of monetary policy, and the evolution of industrial structures. Concepts and tools in the financial sector, which once felt hazy, now made sense to him, as did the chanisms behind financial markets.
Additionally, he had gained a deeper understanding of business managent and team collaboration.
In the coming week, his goal was to enrich and deepen this knowledge frawork, striving for a qualitative transformation in his personal abilities.
When he opened his phone, he found a flood of unread ssages.
Since last night’s livestream hosted by He Yiyi, Tang Song’s WeChat had been buzzing non-stop.
As for Bei Yuwei’s sudden appearance, it hadn’t co as a surprise. After all, he had already used the 【Enterprise Opportunity Card】, targeting the employee He Liting. He just hadn’t expected it to produce such an impressive outco.
For any livestreaming company, traffic is its lifeblood and foundation. And as a top-tier idol, Bei Yuwei’s ability to generate traffic was nothing short of astonishing.
The clipped segnt of Bei Yuwei’s surprise appearance in the livestream was still trending, with over 4 million likes.
As of now, the "He Yiyi" account had gained over 1.5 million followers.
Although much of the fanbase consisted of onlookers and enthusiasts, many of whom would inevitably leave after the hype died down, it was still a breakthrough mont.
He Yiyi had transitioned from an ordinary sales strear to a bona fide internet celebrity with a viral “mont” under her belt.
Last night, taking advantage of his "Super Brain" state, Tang Song had even developed a complete strategic growth plan for He Yiyi. This included pushing her independent brand and constructing a supply chain.
After a quick brainstorming session while still sitting on his bed, Tang Song swiftly got up. He tidied up the bedding and changed into sportswear.
Opening the door, he found Qian Lele already waiting on the sofa, dressed in a matching workout outfit.
The gray quick-dry shirt clung to her body, showcasing her healthy, well-proportioned skin tone and curvy figure. She looked youthful, radiant, and full of energy.
“Brother Song!” Seeing Tang Song step out, Qian Lele quickly stood up, her voice soft. “Lately, my body’s been feeling a bit stiff. Can I join you for a run at the track?”
Her hands lightly tugged at the hem of her shirt, and in the dim light, her cheeks faintly blushed.
She was used to waking up at 5:30 a.m. every morning, keeping a steady routine. But today, for so reason, she had been unable to stay in bed past 5 a.m. She’d put on her workout gear and the brand-new sneakers Ding Yao had gifted her, then sat dazed on the sofa, waiting for Tang Song to wake up.
She loved sharing details about her part-ti jobs and stall business with him and enjoyed asking him questions about professional or technical topics.
“Of course, let’s go!” Tang Song replied with a warm smile, motioning for her to follow.
“Alright!” Qian Lele’s face lit up with excitent.
Just then, Tang Song’s ears were t with the crisp chi of the system notification.
“Ding! Congratulations, player. Aura effects have activated. You’ve triggered an extra critical-hit reward.” Nᴇw novel chapters are publɪshed on novel※fire
“Ding! You’ve obtained a special item: 【Heartthrob’s Conditioner】.”
Hearing the back-to-back system notifications, Tang Song’s eyes glead, and his mood improved even further.
The hidden attribute “ 2 Luck” from his 【Scholar Aura (Badge)】 had subtly boosted his critical-hit rate.
In addition to this, it seed like his “luck” attribute played a part in his encounters with Qian Lele, the respawning of wild events, and Bei Yuwei’s unexpected appearance.
There was no denying that luck was an incredible asset.
As they rode the elevator down, Tang Song took a mont to open his system inventory and check the reward details.
【Heartthrob’s Conditioner】: Gradually improves hair aesthetics, balances the scalp’s oil and moisture levels, repairs damaged hair, enhances hair glossiness, and increases elasticity and softness.
For Tang Song, this conditioner was an upgrade from the previous “Heartthrob’s Hand Cream” and felt like it addressed a real shortcoming.
The only downside was that it didn’t promote hair growth. However, improving his hair’s quality would make it fluffier and more natural, saving him from the daily hassle of using hair gel and wax to style it.
Next to him, Qian Lele noticed the joyful expression on Tang Song’s face and couldn’t help but ask softly, “Brother Song, what’s making you so happy?”
Tang Song turned his head, his gaze eting her bright and cheerful face. Unable to resist, he teased her with a grin, “Running with a pretty girl—how could I not be happy?”
“Ah…” Qian Lele opened her mouth, her cheeks instantly turning a deep shade of red as she stamred and lowered her head.
Having spent so much ti with him, Tang Song had always given her the impression of being warm, composed, and studious, like a gentlemanly scholar.
His sudden teasing caught her completely off guard, making her heart skip a beat.
…
Outside, the sky was beginning to lighten.
The campus was quiet, with only the occasional chirping of birds breaking the silence.
The two of them exited through the south gate and walked along the concrete path, passing by dormitories, lecture halls, and the cafeteria.
A gentle breeze carried a faint chill, brushing against their cheeks.
Out of the corner of her eye, Qian Lele occasionally glanced at Tang Song, sharing tidbits about the university and funny stories she knew.
On the clean rubber track, the sound of their soles hitting the ground echoed clearly in the stillness of the field.
Initially, Qian Lele had the energy to chat while jogging, but as ti passed, her rapid breaths, pounding heart, and the sweat pouring down her face eventually overwheld her.
After 20 minutes, she had no choice but to apologize to Tang Song and slow down, sitting on the nearby steps to rest.
Although her stamina was good, it clearly wasn’t enough to keep up with him, and she felt like she was dragging him down.
The morning sunlight began to spill over the horizon, bathing the track in a golden glow.
Watching Tang Song sprint past again and again, his back radiating energy, Qian Lele felt as if a surge of vitality had been injected into her own heart.
…
Back at the apartnt.
Tang Song let Qian Lele shower first while he headed into his room and sat down at his desk chair.
He opened the system interface, selected 【Heartthrob’s Conditioner】, and used it imdiately.
A sudden shiver ran down his spine, and his scalp felt cool and refreshed.
A wave of comfort washed over him, as though he were enjoying a high-end scalp massage.
Leaning back in his chair, he basked in the sensation for about half an hour before the coolness gradually faded.
Tang Song quickly got up, walked to the mirror, and examined his reflection closely, running his fingers through his hair with a satisfied expression.
The color of his hair had beco darker and shinier, with improved elasticity and strength. However, the transformation wasn’t instantaneous—it seed the effect of the 【Heartthrob’s Conditioner】 would take ti to fully materialize.
After all, hair plays a significant role in a person’s appearance. If the change happened all at once, even soone as observant as Qian Lele might notice sothing was amiss.
“Knock, knock, knock—” The sound of knocking interrupted his thoughts.
“Brother Song, I made so toast and oat milk! Co eat!”
“Alright, coming.”
After running his hand through his hair one more ti, Tang Song walked out of his room in high spirits and headed to the dining area.
As soon as he sat down, sothing unusual caught his attention. His gaze landed on Qian Lele across the table, and a hint of surprise flickered in his eyes.
This was the first ti he’d seen her wear makeup.
Of course, the “makeup” was just a touch of lipstick.
In addition to that, she was also wearing a beautiful necklace. According to his “Special Vision” ability, though, it was a cheap alloy necklace prone to discoloration.
Noticing Tang Song’s gaze, Qian Lele grew self-conscious and lowered her head, quietly nibbling on the sweet toast.
She didn’t know why, but after her shower, she couldn’t resist taking out the Chanel lipstick she had been saving and carefully applying it—albeit clumsily.
It was her first ti using real lipstick instead of just lip balm, and she wasn’t very skilled at it.
After applying the lipstick, she couldn’t help but take out a necklace she had bought a while ago and put it on.
Her heart raced as she glanced timidly at Tang Song, who was eating seriously.
Like anyone else, she wanted to look her best.
Perhaps it was because she wanted to appear prettier in his eyes.
…
11:30 a.m.
Tang Song put down his book and rested for a bit before washing his face, grabbing his campus card, and heading downstairs toward the school cafeteria.
Over the past few days, the “instance” had refreshed several tis, bringing new features such as location enhancents and NPCs.
For example, the enhanced “Library” allowed faster reading and improved learning efficiency.
Another was the NPC “Aunt Zhang of the Cafeteria,” who granted a buff that quickly restored physical and ntal energy after just ten minutes of conversation.
Incidentally, the boxed als at the cafeteria’s window were also delicious.
Since it was sumr break, the cafeteria was almost empty even at lunchti. Only a few windows on the second floor remained open.
After chatting briefly with Aunt Zhang, Tang Song ordered two at dishes and one vegetable dish, along with a complintary bowl of corn porridge.
He sat in a quiet corner, eating silently.
As the clock neared noon, more people started to show up, gathering in small groups and chatting. Many were preparing for the postgraduate entrance exams in the fall.
Listening to their conversations, Tang Song’s eyes revealed a touch of nostalgia.
This “Scholar Instance” had brought back many mories of campus life.
Back when he was a student at Yan City University of Technology, his sole focus had been on postgraduate exams, dreaming of the day he could join Imperial Capital University as a graduate student and stand by his “White Moonlight.”
If his family hadn’t experienced that misfortune, he likely would have succeeded. After all, he had been preparing for it since his freshman year.
Throughout college, he had poured his heart and soul into studying, working even harder than he was now in his current “Scholar Mode.”
As he drifted into thought, soone suddenly sat down across from him.
The person stared at him for a mont before exclaiming in surprise, “Tang Song! It really is you! I thought you looked familiar, but I didn’t dare believe it. I can’t believe we’re running into each other after all these years—what a coincidence!”
“Han Xiaoyang?” Tang Song raised his head, surprised as he looked at the person across from him.
Although it had been a long ti since they last t, the distinct voice and familiar features made it easy for him to rember.
Han Xiaoyang was a high school classmate. Although they weren’t in the sa class, they had shared a dormitory and had gotten along quite well.
However, like many classmates, their contact had dwindled after they went to college. It had been five or six years since they last saw each other.
Compared to back then, Han Xiaoyang now appeared more mature. He was still quite slim, but his hair had noticeably thinned. Wearing glasses, he looked refined and studious.
“It’s !” Han Xiaoyang grinned, sliding into the seat directly across from Tang Song and eyeing him curiously.
“Tsk tsk, you’ve only gotten more handso over the years. And that build of yours—have you been working out?”
In high school, Tang Song had been bright and outgoing, tall and lanky, with good looks to boot. Compared to those days, he now seed much more physically fit, and his overall aura had greatly improved.
“So, what brings you to the university cafeteria? Are you still working in the Imperial Capital?” Han Xiaoyang asked, clearly familiar with Tang Song’s background.
He knew that Tang Song had studied at Yan City University of Technology and had later joined a prominent internet company in Beijing, even reuniting with Liu Qingning there.
Tang Song chuckled and replied, “I ca back to Yan City for work last November. I’ve had so free ti lately, so I thought I’d take a walk around campus. What about you? Are you working in Yan City now?”
“?” Han Xiaoyang shrugged with a rueful smile. “I’m currently looking for an internship.”
As he spoke, it was as if a floodgate had opened. While eating, Han Xiaoyang launched into an animated rant about his life.
He explained that he had attended a vocational college for his undergraduate studies, but because of the poor job prospects, he had pursued a bachelor’s degree afterward. Last year, he managed to get into Yan City Normal University for a specialized master’s program.
Now in his second year of graduate school, with no more classes to attend, his main tasks were finding an internship and preparing for a job.
However, due to his weak academic foundation and the fact that his master’s degree ca from a second-tier program, it was challenging to find suitable opportunities.
After he finally finished venting, he looked at Tang Song expectantly.
Tang Song looked at Han Xiaoyang and said, “You’re majoring in Biopharmaceuticals, right? Job opportunities in this field are indeed limited in Yan City. Have you considered trying your luck in the Imperial Capital? There are plenty of high-tech companies there and a lot more opportunities.”
Han Xiaoyang paused, his expression awkward. “I know that, but… well, Li Ping is working in Yan City right now, so…”
He trailed off, offering a sheepish smile instead of finishing his sentence.
“Li Ping?” Tang Song frowned slightly, searching his mory. Fortunately, in his enhanced ntal state, the na imdiately clicked. “Ah, you an that Li Ping from your class? Wow, you’re persistent! So, have you succeeded?”
From high school to graduate school, this pursuit had spanned nearly ten years.
“I’m still working on it.” Han Xiaoyang gave a wry smile and shook his head. “Let’s not talk about that. What about Liu Qingning? Did she move back to Yan City with you?”
Tang Song replied calmly, “She’s currently running a startup in Shenzhen.”
“What? You’re not together anymore?”
“No, we’re not.”
Han Xiaoyang’s jaw dropped in surprise. He put down his chopsticks and reached across the table to shake Tang Song’s hand vigorously. “Wow, looks like we’re two of a kind—brothers in misfortune!”
Back in high school, everyone knew about the ambiguous relationship between Tang Song and Liu Qingning.
Still, it wasn’t entirely surprising that they didn’t end up together. Liu Qingning was simply too exceptional, too dazzling.
A woman like her was hard for most n to hold onto.
After offering a few low-voiced words of consolation to Tang Song, Han Xiaoyang suddenly rembered sothing. “Wait a minute. That’s strange. I heard from Li Ping that around the New Year, Liu Qingning reached out to so of her forr classmates who are now in Yan City. She asked them to keep an eye out for suitable properties—specifically, school-district apartnts close to a subway station and a hospital, with a budget under two million.
“It sounds like she was planning to buy a place here. And now you’re back in Yan City, too. Wasn’t it to settle down and buy a place with her?”
Hearing this, Tang Song’s mind buzzed. For a mont, his gaze grew distant.
He knew Liu Qingning’s personality well. She was soone with a clear and ticulous life plan—mature and rational.
Anything she decided to do was the result of thorough consideration, and she would put in her utmost effort to achieve it.
So when she told him she was moving to Shenzhen, Tang Song hadn’t tried to stop her. He had calmly accepted her departure.
Of course, her mother’s influence had played a part in that decision.
But Tang Song also believed that in Liu Qingning’s carefully laid plans for her future, she had already chosen to leave him behind.
That belief was what led him to leave Beijing, let go of his feelings for her, and begin a new chapter in his life.
Now that he thought about it, during the ti before she moved to Shenzhen, she had indeed asked him multiple questions about his plans in Yan City. She had even asked about his opinions on Yan City’s housing market and future developnt prospects.
This ant she might have planned everything long ago but chose not to tell him.
“Tang Song? Tang Song!” Han Xiaoyang waved a hand in front of his face. “You okay?”
“I’m fine.” Tang Song’s voice was a bit hoarse as he set his chopsticks down gently. Taking out his phone, he said, “Xiaoyang, let’s add each other on WeChat. Can you help get in touch with Li Ping and find out more about Qingning’s plans to buy a house in Yan City?”
Over the years since graduation, Tang Song had lost touch with most of his high school classmates.
“Oh, sure, no problem.” Han Xiaoyang quickly scanned Tang Song’s QR code and added him as a contact.
Exhaling deeply, Tang Song felt his thoughts spiraling into chaos.
If his guess turned out to be true, he genuinely didn’t know how to handle Liu Qingning’s feelings.
When his life turned upside down after the ga’s elents rged with reality, Tang Song had been swept away by excitent and indulgence, partly because he had distanced himself emotionally from Liu Qingning.
Now, however, he was no longer the earnest and idealistic Tang Song of the past. He had beco a man with multiple girlfriends and casual flings—a certified playboy.
He couldn’t even imagine how Liu Qingning would feel if she learned about his current lifestyle.
…
Lanfeng International Apartnts.
“Riiiiing—”
The shrill sound of a phone broke the silence.
It was an unfamiliar landline number.
Lin Muxue imdiately paused her work and picked up the call. “Hello?”
A soft, pleasant voice ca through the receiver. “Hello, is this Ms. Lin Muxue? I’m Zhang Yujie, a sales consultant from the Yan City Porsche Sales Center.”
Lin Muxue’s heart skipped a beat, and her face lit up with excitent. She tried to stay calm as she replied, “Yes, this is she.”
“Well, Ms. Lin, I’m pleased to inform you that your 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S 3.0T has arrived at our dealership. You’re welco to co inspect and pick up the car at your convenience. If possible, it’s best to co today since the DMV can still handle new car registrations on Saturdays but will be closed tomorrow.”
“Alright, I’ll head over shortly.”
“Great! I’ll be here to assist you. Have a wonderful day, and see you soon!”
“Thank you! Goodbye!”
After ending the call, Lin Muxue couldn’t contain herself any longer.
A shriek of excitent erupted from her apartnt, loud enough to rival the noise of marking plays on a basketball court.
She threw herself onto the bed, rolling back and forth, hugging a pillow and smothering it with kisses.
Then she sprinted into her walk-in closet, rummaging through her wardrobe until she settled on a chic yet casual outfit paired with stylish flat shoes.
After all, safety first when picking up a car!
Standing in front of the mirror, Lin Muxue admired herself. Her excitent was palpable, her emotions surging uncontrollably.
Her mind raced as she envisioned the car—imagining herself behind the wheel, feeling the wind rushing past the windows as she sped along.
Unfortunately, Tang Song was still busy. Otherwise, Lin Muxue wouldn’t have hesitated to shalessly beg for a celebratory al with him.
Glancing at the clock, she realized it was already noon.
No, this was her first car, and it was a Porsche 911—a gift from Tang Song! If no one witnessed this historic mont, she would feel like sothing was missing.
However, she didn’t dare invite Qianqian. Qianqian had already guessed there was sothing between her and Tang Song, and Lin Muxue didn’t want to risk awkwardness. After all, Qianqian hadn’t received such a grand gift from Tang Song herself.
As for He Liting, the lucky girl was passed out after staying awake all night. The excitent of Bei Yuwei’s appearance hadn’t fazed her in the slightest—after all, Su Yu, a woman belonging to Tang Song, was an even more prominent figure. A re traffic-star idol was hardly worth ntioning.
After mulling it over for a while, Lin Muxue’s eyes brightened. She opened WeChat and imdiately video-called a contact.
“Dun-dun-dun—dun-dun-dun—”
The call rang for a while before it was finally answered.
A beautiful face appeared on the screen. “Hello, Xiaoxue! What’s up? Have you finally found so free ti?”
Lin Muxue suppressed the grin tugging at her lips, adopting a nonchalant tone. “Xixi, do you have ti this afternoon?”
“Yes! I just finished lunch with Jiaojiao, and we’re about to head for a beauty spa.”
“Oh? Jiaojiao is there too?” Lin Muxue’s eyes curved into a smile. “Perfect timing. I’m heading to a 4S dealership to pick up a new car later. Why don’t you two join ? We haven’t had a proper hangout in a while. After picking up the car, I’ll treat you both to a spa session, and we can party at Lanfeng International Hotel tonight.”
The heavens must be helping , Emperor Muxue! There was no way she could miss this opportunity to flaunt.
Zhao Yaqian’s collaboration with Isha Beauty was already being finalized, with asset evaluations underway. Lin Muxue’s mbership card had even elevated her to shareholder status at Isha Beauty.
In addition, she had started assisting Tang Song with organizing Lanfeng International’s five-star hotel records, which helped her familiarize herself with key figures at the hotel.
It was ti to reintroduce herself to these two!
After all, Lin Muxue had spent years navigating society, and she wasn’t short on connections with genuine “White Rich Beautiful” (Bai Fui) won.
Take Li Yujiao and Zhang Xi, for example. She had t them after an outfit clash at a high-end banquet.
Despite the awkward start, the two had decent personalities. A few chats later, they hit it off and added each other on WeChat. Occasionally, they’d et up for als.
Her first “coincidental” eting with Tang Song had been when she was dining at Shengwei Pavilion with these two Bai Fui won.
At the ti, Zhang Xi had arrived in her red Porsche 718. Watching them drive up in their luxury cars had made Lin Muxue nervous. She had to lie, claiming that a suitor driving a rcedes-Benz G-Class was dropping her off.
Inside, she’d been full of anxiety. She wanted to blend into their circle but was terrified of being exposed for her true status.
But today, taking delivery of her Porsche 911 marked a milestone.
Owning her own luxury car brought her social confidence to an all-ti high.
She was finally ready to leave behind the “fake heiress” crowd and truly step into the world of Bai Fui.
After two months without seeing them, Lin Muxue had undergone a complete transformation.
She wasn’t just a financial executive now but also a shareholder mber at Isha Beauty and an assistant executive director at Lanfeng International Hotel.
Taking a deep breath, Lin Muxue stood before the mirror, tossing her long hair with a cool and confident gaze.
She muttered under her breath in a dramatic, self-indulgent tone, “July 22, 2023—the day I, Emperor Muxue, achieve Sacred Body Mastery, take possession of the Imperial Weapon, and shake the heavens and earth. All living beings in the world tremble in fear! Hahaha!”
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