novelraw Chapter 185: Whispers of Humanity: Lin Muxue
Chapter 185: Whispers of Humanity: Lin Muxue
In Beicheng Garden.
“Hmph, hmph—ji ji ji—ying ying ying—”
Xu Qing hugged her blanket, making nonsensical sounds as her legs thumped against the bed.
“Damn it, damn it! To think Xu Qing, the great lady, would cosplay for you! Just wait till I teach you a lesson!”
She raised her head abruptly, grabbed the plushie by her bedside, and opened her cherry-red mouth.
“Ah woo, ah woo,” she bit at it fiercely.
“If not for Yanyan, I would never yield to your tyranny! Hmph, see how I’ll torment you in my novel later!”
“I’ll eat with someone else in front of you, and make you kneel on a keyboard and cry!”
“Heh heh heh!”
...After a while, Xu Qing sat up with her flushed face, her big dark eyes darting around.
She quickly walked to her computer.
She started searching “What gifts do guys like the most?”
If she was going to win him over, she had to do it properly. For Yanyan’s lifelong happiness, she had to put in more effort.
Soon, she found a post with high views and numerous replies.
She clicked to read it.
The top-rated answer was “Parents’ health.”
Xu Qing stuck out her tongue. That was irrefutable, but unfortunately, not something she could give.
Scrolling down, she saw “Money.”
Well… I’m seeking money from the god of wealth himself, so that’s not an option!
Next was “A house.”
Um… not affordable, moving on.
“4090.”
Xu Qing blinked. What on earth was that?
She checked the comments below.
【Bing Fenggu: “If you give this gift, even if you break up, you’ll always be known among his friends as the ex who gave him a 4090.”】
【Super Xin: “If you give him a 4090, even if you cheat, he’ll think it’s his fault for not being good enough.”】
(⇀‸↼‶)!!!
What?! There’s such a legendary item in the world?
Xu Qing became instantly focused, opening her browser to search for “4090.”
Her face went through a series of expressions: confusion, realization, conflict, hesitation…
Each expression was vivid and lively.
A computer graphics card that cost as much as a Bvlgari black ceramic ring?!
My goodness! How many words would she have to write to earn that?
She looked at her savings on her phone. After three years of work, she had saved just over 60,000 yuan, most of it from countless sleepless nights writing.
She hesitated even when buying cosplay costumes or comparing prices for takeout.
Spending so much on a graphics card made her heart ache—it was hard to justify.
She glanced at the comments again.
Xu Qing leaned over her keyboard and rolled her face across it, hair flying as she did.
Maybe she could settle for a 4060? It was just over 2,000 yuan.
The numbers 6 and 9 looked similar; it might work just as well, right?
Pacing around her room, occasionally flopping on her bed with a grumble, she eventually dozed off in her indecision.
That night, she had a chaotic dream.
In her dream, she wore a cosplay outfit and handed a brand-new 4060 to him.
Tang Song’s face fell into deep disappointment. “Qingqing, you’ve really let me down. Do you think I care about the 4090? I care about your dedication!”
“Ah—” Xu Qing screamed, waking up startled, eyes wide with panic as she sat up.
She grabbed her phone immediately and started comparing prices on her shopping app, finally placing an order.
...
Sunday, May 28, 2023, cloudy, 17-26°C.
Having drunk quite a bit last night and stayed up late, Tang Song woke up around 7 a.m.
The curtains were pulled open in one swift motion.
The view of the lively city under heavy clouds filled his sight.
Thanks to the 【Heartthrob Aura (LV3)】, his restful sleep left him energized and brimming with vitality.
Taking a deep breath, he walked into his dressing room, donned his 【Boundless Energy】 sportswear, and was putting on his shoes in the hallway when—
“Ding dong—ding dong—” The doorbell rang.
Tang Song glanced at the visual display beside the door and looked pleasantly surprised.
Opening the armored door, he saw Zhao Yaqian standing there with a bright smile, holding a large bag.
“Brother Song, I bought breakfast for you: soy milk, youtiao, meat buns…”
She rattled off seven or eight items, her eyes full of affection as she looked at Tang Song. “Little Xue said this shop’s food is delicious. It’s my first time trying it too, so I thought we could eat together.”
She licked her lips after speaking. A true foodie, she was tempted but held back, wanting to share with her boyfriend first.
Yesterday, after a long day of shopping for clothes, cosmetics, and bedding, she hadn’t finished arranging her place in Yanjing Huating but had stayed with her cousin anyway.
She had been so excited she barely slept and woke up early in the morning.
With her boyfriend less than a kilometer away, she was eager to see him.
Knowing Tang Song’s habits, she guessed he’d be doing posture exercises or skincare at this hour and hadn’t had breakfast yet.
So, she bought breakfast and hurried over.
“Thanks, Qianqian, come in.” Tang Song pulled her inside and took the bag, his eyes warm as he looked at her.
She wore an oversized T-shirt, gray cotton shorts barely visible underneath, white sneakers, and a baseball cap.
The T-shirt was so long it nearly covered her shorts, leaving only her long, white legs exposed.
Her thighs were smooth and full, and her chest was round and high.
With her striking features and wavy long hair, she exuded both youthful energy and mature allure.
Having been riled up yesterday at Little Jing’s place and just waking up in his 【Boundless Energy】 outfit, Tang Song’s blood was already racing. Facing this beauty, he couldn’t resist.
He tossed the breakfast aside and pulled Zhao Yaqian close, hands exploring her body.
Zhao Yaqian’s cheeks flushed as she closed her eyes to his passionate kisses, letting out soft sounds of pleasure.
After a while, feeling her shorts pushed to her thighs and the heat rising between them, Zhao Yaqian opened her eyes shyly and whispered, “Brother Song, it’s that time for me, we can’t go further.”
Tang Song, holding her tight, said breathlessly, “No problem. Let’s eat first; you must be hungry.”
“Oh…okay, Brother Song. I am really hungry,” Zhao Yaqian replied, biting her lip and kneeling down.
Lin Muxue, who had been living nearby for over six months, had indeed become familiar with the best food spots.
The youtiao from this breakfast shop were exceptional, and the soy milk was sweet with minimal soy taste.
The meat buns were also delicious, soft and fragrant. Tang Song quickly finished two.
...
In Xingchen Garden, Building 8.
“Ring ring—” The alarm went off.
Yao Lingling sat up groggily and shut off the alarm, yawning as she checked the time.
She cherished the opportunity to work as a full-fledged fashion designer, even if it meant late nights and no weekend breaks.
She was in a burst mode, putting in tremendous effort every day.
With three drafts of a design board completed, she had begun sewing sample garments.
After a wash and light makeup, she put on casual clothes and stepped out of her room to see Zhang Jiahong staring into space in the living room.
Yao Lingling bounced over and hugged her shoulders with a cheerful, “Good morning, Jiahong.”
“Good morning, Lingling,” Zhang Jiahong replied, her face not showing much emotion. After a moment of silence, she said, “Lingling, there’s something I need to tell you. Is now a good time?”
“Of course, today I’m voluntarily going to work overtime, so time isn’t an issue,” Yao Lingling said with a nod.
Zhang Jiahong pressed her lips together and spoke softly, “I’m planning to move out.”
Lingling’s face froze as she blurted, “Why, Jiahong? Why are you moving out?”
They had been dormmates in college and housemates for a year after graduation, maintaining a great relationship filled with shared jokes, meals, and shows.
Zhang Jiahong sighed, “I didn’t pass the exam. I’ve been job hunting and interviewed at a few places, but only a small clothing factory offered me a position.”
The factory was in a remote location without direct public transit, though it provided a dorm—six people to a room with meals included.
Lingling’s expression fell. “But weren’t you planning to keep trying until the end of the year? Why give up now?”
“Ah, something came up at home, and they need money. I have to put off the exam for now,” Jiahong said, looking dejected.
Their three-bedroom in Xingchen Garden cost 2,400 yuan a month with utilities, so each person paid about 800 yuan. Including food, even with minimal spending, monthly expenses were at least 1,500 yuan—a significant burden for her now.
Lingling bit her lip. “I still have over 10,000 yuan. If you need…”
“No, no. I don’t want to borrow money from you guys. That’s why I didn’t mention my job hunt,” Zhang Jiahong quickly shook her head. “It’ll be fine. I just need to get through this period, and I can still take the exam before I’m 35.”
Lingling hesitated and said, “How about I ask Xiao Mingxuan to help with an internal referral at our company? If you can join us, you wouldn’t need to move.”
“No, don’t. I know my own qualifications. I haven’t worked long enough, and my experience isn’t sufficient to handle the work at your company,” Jiahong said, smiling weakly. “This small factory isn’t demanding; I just need to replicate popular designs. When I’ve gained more experience, maybe then you can refer me.”
“Alright then. When are you planning to move out?” Lingling asked, biting her lip in frustration.
“Next weekend. I start work the Monday after, so I’ll pack my things over the next few days.” Jiahong looked around their apartment with a touch of nostalgia. “Can’t believe it’s already been a year living here. Time flies.”
After speaking, she stepped forward and gave Lingling a tight hug, her eyes full of envy and well wishes. “Keep working hard, and become a real designer soon. Make your dream come true.”
Lingling, who was known for her kind and cheerful nature, patted Jiahong’s back. “We’ll both keep going. We got this.”
“Oh, Lingling, once I move out, you’ll need to find someone to rent the spare room, right?” Jiahong added, her tone trying to stay light.
“Yes, but don’t worry. I know a lot of classmates and alumni living in Yan City; it shouldn’t be hard to find someone.”
Jiahong chuckled, her mood lifting slightly. “Why not invite Tang Song over? He’s so handsome and even has abs. You and Shumin would be set.”
Lingling’s face instantly flushed. “I’m not as bold as Shumin.”
“To be honest, I think Tang Song is pretty great. He seems more reliable than the Xiao Mingxuan you both keep mentioning. Those Cinderella stories with a prince are too far-fetched. Think about it seriously,” Jiahong teased.
Lingling pouted, “Tang Song is indeed a nice guy and has helped me a lot. But we’re just good friends, brothers even. Can we stop twisting our friendship into something else?”
Jiahong smiled and didn’t push the topic further. “Alright, alright, I won’t keep you. Go be our Lingling, the future great designer!”
They laughed and joked, dissipating the bittersweet atmosphere of their impending farewell.
Since they were still in Yan City, visiting each other on weekends wouldn’t be difficult.
Lingling grabbed her helmet, hummed a tune, and headed downstairs to her beloved scooter for the ride to work.
...
In Yanjing Tiancheng, a high-rise apartment.
Tang Song stepped out of his dressing room, refreshed and energized.
Releasing his pent-up energy had brightened his perspective, making everything seem clearer.
He checked his phone and saw an unread message.
【Lingling: “Senior, I’m at the company now. Message me when you’re downstairs.”】
Replying briefly, Tang Song walked to the bed and gently tapped Zhao Yaqian’s firm backside. “Rest up for now, Qianqian. I’ve got some work to do.”
Zhao Yaqian raised her head, her speech a bit slurred. “Mhm, go ahead, brother. Don’t worry about me.”
She glanced warily at Tang Song’s waist. He really was something—three times that morning, each time lasting quite a while.
...
The hum of an engine resonated in the air.
A black Ninja 400 motorcycle navigated through the main roads of the city.
Dressed in a helmet and protective gear, Tang Song leaned over the bike as a cool breeze brushed against his collar, his clothes fluttering.
Twenty minutes later, he parked in front of the Yuhua Business Tower.
Tang Song secured the bike and called Lingling on WeChat.
After a three-to-four-minute wait, he spotted her familiar figure emerging from the main entrance.
She wore fitted jeans, sneakers, a plain T-shirt, and her hair was tied in a high ponytail.
Her features were fresh and neat, her complexion even and smooth, radiating health and vitality.
Lingling waved enthusiastically and jogged over, her ponytail bouncing behind her.
“Morning, handsome! Thanks for making the trip,” Lingling greeted, her eyes sparkling as she sized up the once-nerdy “tech pet” turned “design whiz senior.”
He looked impressively fit, with skin that appeared smoother than before—possibly due to some concealer.
Handsome beyond reason.
She had witnessed Tang Song’s transformation from an overweight recluse to the refined man he was now.
Having contributed suggestions along the way, she felt a special pride and connection to his journey.
“Morning, Lingling,” Tang Song greeted with a smile, pointing to his motorcycle. “This is the bike you suggested, the metallic black Ninja 400. Cool, right?”
Lingling’s eyes widened in shock. “You bought it so soon? You’re amazing, senior!”
This model cost about 50,000 yuan, the most expensive among her recommendations.
She rushed to the bike, examining it eagerly. “It’s so sleek! I knew the sports model was the best choice!”
The two chatted briefly about motorcycles.
Lingling then took a soft measuring tape from her bag, tapping Tang Song’s shoulder with a grin. “Alright, let’s get your measurements. Stand up straight with your arms relaxed. No tilting your head or puffing out your chest.”
Tang Song complied, positioning himself properly.
Lingling cleared her throat and began measuring, her fingers working diligently as she recorded each dimension.
Shoulder width, sleeve length, waistline, hip height...
As the measuring went on, her face grew pinker, and her gaze became shifty.
What a physique!
Broad shoulders, a slim waist, long legs—his proportions were perfect, his posture elegant, muscles defined and firm.
As a designer, she knew how rare such an ideal frame was; he was practically a living mannequin.
She couldn’t help but think how comforting it would be to be held by someone like him.
When she finished, Lingling bit her lip, her mouth dry.
She mentally scolded herself for harboring such thoughts about her good friend! ᴜᴘᴅᴀᴛᴇ ꜰʀᴏᴍ novel•fire.net
Tang Song relaxed and asked, “All set?”
“Yup, I’ve got all the data. Now I just need to tailor the sample garment for you to try on.”
“Great.” Tang Song turned, pulled a small box from his bag hanging on the bike, and handed it to her. “Since you refused payment for the side gig, I bought you a little gift instead.”
Lingling’s eyes widened at the sleek black box. “A phone?”
“Yup. I saw your OPPO phone’s screen was cracked, so I got you the newest Find X6 Pro.”
She checked the specifications—16GB + 512GB. If she remembered right, it was priced at 6,000 to 7,000 yuan.
“No way, it’s too much! You’ve already helped me so much with the sketch drafts; I can’t accept this!” Lingling pushed the phone back at him.
“Take it, Lingling. I’m not the kind of senior who takes advantage of juniors,” Tang Song said, flashing her a bright smile. He put on his helmet, revved up his bike, and waved. “Bye, Lingling.”
Lingling watched as Tang Song rode off, her eyes following his tall, confident frame.
Her mind lingered on the warmth of his recent smile.
She had to admit, her senior was incredibly handsome when he smiled.
Feeling flustered, she glanced down at the phone in her hand, her cheeks reddening.
...
Tuesday, May 30, 2023, cloudy, 17-26°C.
Guitar notes and soft singing filled the bedroom.
As the early morning light gradually brightened, Tang Song paused, setting the guitar aside.
He picked up his action camera, previewed the footage, and confirmed it was good.
Excited, he entered his study and booted up his computer to start editing.
After over half an hour, he was done.
The video preview unfolded.
In the dim, early-morning light, only the faint outline of his figure was visible.
Gentle guitar strumming played, followed by a soft, low voice, perfectly matching the dusky visual.
As the sky gradually lightened, the music and singing became clearer, his figure slowly revealed.
The video had a graceful, progressive beauty, enhanced by filters. It turned out perfectly.
Tang Song was a quick learner, and after two months in the self-media world, coupled with focused study, he had developed his own workflow for content creation and distribution.
Even if he had to start from scratch, he could maintain a decent lifestyle managing his two accounts.
He uploaded the video to Douyin, clicked “Post,” and checked his profile.
Current followers: 64,092.
Over the past two weeks, purely through organic reach, he had gained over 10,000 followers.
He switched to Little Red Book. Current followers: 11,258.
He checked the details of his 【Popular Me】 title.
【Current cash rewards: 1,239,500 yuan (Total: 7,220,500 yuan)】
Up to this point, the bulk of his earnings came from this title, making it a cash cow that consistently brought in significant revenue.
He withdrew his earnings.
With the notification of funds credited to his account, Tang Song’s mood improved even more.
Opening the banking app, he saw a balance of 5,348,000 yuan and leaned back, stretching contentedly.
Even though he owned luxury cars, properties, and company shares, having tangible cash in the bank brought a different kind of satisfaction.
“Shua!” A light-blue system screen appeared before him, lines of text scrolling across.
【On May 30, 2023, your cash balance has surpassed 5 million yuan, achieving a significant financial milestone.】
【You feel a strong sense of financial security.】
【Challenge task unlocked: “Impulse Spending”】
【Mission Objective: For the rest of the day, spend freely on yourself without hesitation or doubt. Fully embrace the joy of spending to treat yourself and improve your relationship with money.】
【Mission Reward: Random Gift Pack*1】
【Note: The size of the gift pack depends on your spending mood. The happier you are, the more valuable the gift pack.】
After reading the task description, a broad smile spread across Tang Song’s face.
It was a pure benefit task.
Reflecting on it, ever since obtaining the system, his assets had steadily grown, but he hadn’t truly indulged himself.
His clothes, house, and car were all system rewards.
Watches were gifts from girlfriends.
For someone now financially independent, this was not normal.
Excited, Tang Song began his daily routine of working out, having breakfast, and skincare...
...
9:00 a.m.
In the underground parking of Yunxi Tower.
A white Bentley Continental slowly rolled into its spot.
Tang Song stepped out with his briefcase, locked the car, and couldn’t help glancing back at it.
Elegant and grand—just beautiful.
Walking into the brightly lit B2 elevator hall, he immediately spotted a familiar figure.
She stood quietly near the elevator, seemingly unaware of his approach.
Wearing a black off-shoulder top and matching skirt, she showed off her graceful curves. Her collarbones and shoulder lines were exposed, lending her a sophisticated, sexy, and noble air.
With her makeup meticulously done, she looked vibrant and full of life.
Tang Song’s brow arched slightly.
You again, Little Xue!
Noticing his reflection in her peripheral vision, Lin Muxue bit her lip, feigned surprise, and looked up.
Her face broke into a radiant smile as she walked toward him, drawing the admiring glances of other men waiting for the elevator.
“Tang Song, what a coincidence! Fancy seeing you here,” Lin Muxue said, her voice calm though her heart raced.
Yesterday, Monday, she had finally learned his routine from Qianqian. Today, she had managed to “coincidentally” run into him.
The familiar scent of her perfume reached him, and Tang Song smiled. “Good morning.”
Lin Muxue licked her rosy lips and suggested, “How about a coffee downstairs? My treat.”
“Thanks.” Tang Song nodded lightly, curious about her intentions.
They took the elevator to the first floor and found seats by the window at the nearby Luckin Coffee.
She ordered two Geisha Americanos, and they sat facing each other.
Lin Muxue glanced away, avoiding eye contact, and said softly, “It’s really a coincidence. We work in the same building and both know Qianqian.”
“It is quite the coincidence,” Tang Song replied, smiling. For this familiar Little Xue, the sentiment felt fitting.
Seeing his smile relaxed her. “I know a great grilled fish restaurant near Xingyue City. How about I take you there for lunch?”
Tang Song was about to respond when a clear system notification rang in his ear.
“Ding! Player has encountered a relevant scenario and subject. The special item 【Whispers of Humanity】 has been activated. Instance 【Whispers of Lin Muxue】 has been created!”