novelraw Chapter 186: Empress Muxue, Event Instance
Chapter 186: Empress Muxue, Event Instance
Tang Song’s expression froze momentarily, but he quickly composed himself.
The special item 【Whispers of Humanity】 had been awarded when his Little Red Book followers hit 10,000. This item automatically activated in specific scenarios with certain individuals, creating an 【Event Instance】.
Completing these instances would enhance his understanding of human nature, increasing his charm by +1.
He hadn’t expected Lin Muxue to trigger it.
He opened the system interface and checked his inventory.
The previously gray-glowing item 【Whispers of Humanity】 had vanished, replaced by a vibrant card.
Details:
【Whispers of Lin Muxue】: Upon use, this instance will load in the real world (player’s perspective). Prepare accordingly.
【Note: Valid for 11 hours, 59 minutes, and 34 seconds.】
...Noticing Tang Song’s sudden silence, Lin Muxue’s smile grew increasingly forced.
Seriously? I just invited him to lunch, and he’s this put off?
From her perspective, Tang Song was an enigmatic billionaire—someone she had never encountered in her social circles, nor had anyone she knew.
Her understanding and insight weren’t enough to decipher someone of his caliber.
So, she relied on getting closer to Zhao Yaqian, her good friend, to glean insights and gradually figure out his character.
But according to her beautician friend, “Brother Song” was the perfect boyfriend: gentle, kind, attentive, optimistic, and… let’s say, highly capable.
This only made Lin Muxue more confused and unsure how to approach him.
She’d even resorted to secretly posting pictures on her WeChat Moments.
“Miss, your two Geisha Americanos are ready,” a server reminded her.
“Thank you.” Lin Muxue quickly stood, picking up the coffees.
As she did, a familiar voice came from beside her. “Morning, Muxue. Didn’t see you at the office earlier, so I guessed you must be down here for coffee.”
Lin Muxue’s smile turned polite as she turned slightly. “Morning, Brother Gu.”
Seeing her in a black off-shoulder top and a tight skirt, Gu Cheng was visibly impressed. This was the first time she’d worn something so bold at work, usually sticking to professional attire. He hadn’t expected her to look this stunning.
The elegance she radiated, with her exposed, delicate collarbones and fair skin, enhanced by a subtle scent of perfume, left Gu Cheng momentarily stunned.
“Goodbye, Brother Gu. I have something else to do,” Lin Muxue nodded before turning on her heel and heading toward the window seat.
Gu Cheng hastily followed. “Muxue, didn’t we say we’d try that soy-sauce grilled fish together? How about lunch today?”
He had been swamped with due diligence for an investment project in Chengdu and only returned to Yan City the previous night.
Lin Muxue glanced subtly at Tang Song, her eyes briefly betraying nervousness before she composed herself and frowned slightly. “I’m not in the mood for fish lately, sorry. Bye, Brother Gu.”
With that, she ignored him, walking briskly to sit across from Tang Song. She handed him one of the coffee cups, adding casually, “I ran into a colleague and exchanged a few words. Here’s your coffee—let me know what you think.”
“Thank you.” Tang Song accepted it and took a sip, nodding. “It’s quite good.”
The flavor was rich, with balanced acidity and hints of fruit and nuts—a stark contrast to his usual mocha.
Standing a couple of meters away, Gu Cheng watched them converse, his lips pressing together.
Since this stunning receptionist joined the company, many male coworkers had vied for her attention. She was known as a wealthy heiress working here mainly for experience and social connections.
She always dressed impeccably, looking innocent yet alluring, with a slim waist, long legs, a generous chest, and flawless skin—an ideal for many men.
But she had never shown special treatment to anyone, never fetched coffee or spoke with such a gentle tone.
Gu Cheng’s gaze drifted to Tang Song, whom he vaguely recalled from an elevator encounter. He also worked at Yunxi Tower and did part-time at Shimmer Coffee.
The sight of Tang Song’s striking profile triggered alarm bells in Gu Cheng’s head, darkening his eyes. Clenching his jaw, he turned and strode away.
...
Lin Muxue sat with her hands clasped in her lap, her posture upright and legs crossed to one side, emphasizing her graceful curves.
She sipped her coffee, eyes drifting to Tang Song.
His nose was high-bridged, lips well-defined, and shoulders broad, exuding a calm elegance that seemed to shimmer with a subtle golden glow.
A Patek Philippe watch gleamed on his left wrist—a genuine piece, worth the price of a Porsche 911.
His clothes, devoid of visible branding but impeccably tailored, were unmistakably custom-made.
Why hadn’t she taken a closer look or said more back then? Maybe she would have realized his worth sooner.
After all, he had asked for her WeChat, and she had felt a spark.
They could have been together!
The realization that she’d missed out on such a high-caliber man pained Lin Muxue.
If she had never had a chance, she might have accepted it. But to know she’d lost out due to her mistakes? That was unbearable.
...
Tang Song leaned back in his chair, selecting 【Whispers of Lin Muxue】 and activating it.
“Shhh—” The system interface glowed, revealing a vivid scene.
Luxury goods, mansions, sports cars, gold, diamonds, money, parties…
Shimmering golden light flowed through it, dazzling to behold.
Lines of text scrolled:
【Human nature is diverse and complex. Each person’s experiences, background, and personality make it difficult to summarize or categorize simply.】
【We should respect individuality and strive to understand motives and actions.】
【Lin Muxue embodies a typical driven, goal-oriented, confident, yet insecure woman with vanity and competitive pride.】
【Observing her choices and actions will deepen your understanding of women, improve emotional intelligence, and enhance relationship management.】
【Welcome to the special event instance: Whispers of Lin Muxue.】
【Instance roles: Observer (Tang Song), Subject (Lin Muxue).】
【You have gained the instance skill “Whisper.”】
【Whisper】: Within the instance, when the subject experiences significant emotional fluctuations, you will see her inner thoughts.
【Scene One】
【May 30, 09:06: You accept Lin Muxue’s lunch invitation. During lunch, you suggest going shopping together, using this opportunity to advance the “Impulse Spending” challenge.】
The glowing screen faded. Tang Song lifted his eyes to Lin Muxue, surprise in his gaze.
Everything around him appeared the same, but Lin Muxue now had a faint outline and a purple tag above her head: 【Subject (Lin Muxue)】.
She looked as if she were an animated character in a live-action setting—noticeable and distinct.
...
“If it’s not convenient, we can plan for another time. My schedule is quite flexible,” Lin Muxue said, flipping her hair with a smile that belied her sinking heart.
Tang Song’s continued silence about her invitation made her more anxious.
Her perfectly manicured hands tensed slightly, eyes wavering.
If her current strategy to reconnect failed, she’d have to come up with something else.
Tang Song looked up and smiled. “It’s not inconvenient, but it feels strange letting you treat me.”
Lin Muxue was momentarily stunned but kept her composure. “It’s no problem. You can treat me next time. We’re in the same building, so we’ll have plenty of chances.”
“Alright then, thanks, Little Xue. Let’s have lunch at that place you mentioned. What time do you start your lunch break?” Tang Song beamed at her.
A large thought bubble appeared above Lin Muxue: 【He agreed, and he called me “Little Xue”!】
Tang Song’s smile froze momentarily as he stared at the floating text. Listening to her words while seeing her thoughts felt oddly thrilling, like eavesdropping on her mind. This text is hosted at N()velFire.net
Lin Muxue’s face lit up. “Normally, it’s at noon, but I can leave at 11:30. Earlier is fine too, depending on your time.”
After all, there was another receptionist, Sun Yang, who could cover for her.
“Alright, 11:30 it is. Let’s meet at the B2 elevator lobby.” Tang Song glanced at his watch. “I have a meeting at my company soon, so I should go. See you later.”
Lin Muxue stood up quickly. “I’ll come with you.”
They walked to the elevator with their coffees. The morning rush made it crowded, so Lin Muxue stood close to Tang Song.
The fresh, airy scent she wore felt like sea breeze mixed with rain-drenched air.
In her 7-centimeter heels, she stood tall, her curvaceous hips pressing lightly against his abdomen.
A narrow waist, slender back, flowing hair, exposed shoulders, and collarbones...
Tang Song took a deep breath, feeling slightly overwhelmed.
Facing the elevator doors, Lin Muxue crossed her arms as if oblivious.
“Ding—” The elevator stopped on the 19th floor, and Lin Muxue turned, whispering, “Goodbye.”
She tilted her chin slightly and walked out, taking deliberate, measured steps.
Her graceful figure, swaying hips, and today’s outfit created a striking, elegant aura that caught everyone’s attention.
Another thought bubble popped up
: 【He’s watching me! Is my walk too swishy? I need to be more dignified!】
Tang Song blinked, bemused by this new side of her.
...
In the meeting room.
A large screen displayed detailed live broadcast data.
“We’ve reached 890,000 yuan in sales this month, with nearly 10,000 orders. Our goal today is to promote and curate items so we can hit a million in monthly sales,” said Gao Mengting, standing confidently in her white business suit, eyes bright with determination.
Tang Song listened attentively at the conference table.
He’d already reviewed these figures yesterday. They were on track to surpass the first month’s break-even goal.
The 【Badge - Lucky Me】 played a crucial role.
The initial successful broadcasts and viral videos had brought in over 5,000 targeted followers, leading to strong live-stream metrics and platform support.
Of course, the team’s hard work was also a significant factor.
Since their first broadcast on May 13, only 17 days had passed.
Nine live sessions, averaging 3 hours and 47 minutes each, with an average viewership of 73,000 and a peak of 134,000.
With this momentum, two broadcasts a week, and frequent weekend work, the team was eager to reach their milestone.
As long as GMV (Gross Merchandise Value) and return rates stayed on target, decent commission earnings were assured.
副播 (deputy anchor) He Liting, for example, was poised to earn at least 10,000 yuan a month—a high salary for a 20-something college graduate in Yan City.
After Gao Mengting’s presentation, Tang Song stood to discuss the company’s upcoming plans.
The 【Growth Plan Task】 was nearing completion.
Their company now had a core business, was on the verge of profitability, and could steadily expand.
This milestone would soon yield the 【Growth Package】.
With a 2,010-square-meter office space being renovated, three broadcasting rooms ready for use, and rapid team expansion ahead, Tang Song was motivated and eager for the next steps.
...
At Rongxin Ventures.
Lin Muxue, seated at the reception desk, glanced at the time, feeling like these past hours were dragging.
At 11:15, she opened WeChat and messaged Tang Song: “I’ll get ready and wait for you downstairs. See you soon.”
After sending it, she grabbed her compact mirror, touched up her makeup, and adjusted her hairstyle.
She sprayed breath freshener into her mouth—ready to present her best self.
She checked her phone again. No reply from Tang Song, and it was almost 11:20.
Why isn’t he responding? Is he too busy? Or just ignoring me?
She stood up, picked up her Dior bag, and anxiously headed for the elevator.
Part of her wanted to go to the 30th floor or send a voice message but worried it might backfire.
Ultimately, she went down to B2 and waited in the lobby.
At 11:30, the elevator chimed.
Lin Muxue straightened up, trying to look nonchalant. Disappointment crossed her face as the doors opened.
Did he forget? Is he going to flake?
She was used to being pursued, so waiting for someone felt oddly disconcerting.
Two minutes later, Tang Song emerged from the elevator.
Lin Muxue felt the deep, nerve-wracking sensation of a “puppy love” crush.
Smiling, she nodded. “Let’s go, Tang Song. I’ve already reserved a table.”
A thought bubble appeared: 【Finally! If he hadn’t shown up, I was ready to knock on their company door!】
Tang Song, slightly sheepish, said, “Sorry, the elevator delayed me a couple of minutes.”
It didn’t feel late to him, but seeing her intense emotions, he felt compelled to apologize.
“It’s alright, I just got here myself,” Lin Muxue said, her mood lifting instantly.
Walking outside, her gaze fixated on the white Bentley Continental GT.
In the dim garage, it gleamed like a pearl, drawing the attention of passersby.
As they approached, her heartbeat quickened.
“Click—” The lights flashed, unlocking the car.
Lin Muxue held her breath, smoothing her skirt before gracefully settling into the passenger seat under curious stares.
With her heels pressing into the plush carpet and seated in the luxurious chair, she felt a surge of pride and contentment.
She ran her fingers over the fine, ornate interior, eyes closed in delight.
A 4-million-yuan Bentley Continental GT, driven by a young, handsome billionaire.
What woman could resist?
“Vroom—” The engine roared to life. Tang Song glanced at Lin Muxue’s composed face, an odd look crossing his own.
A thought bubble: 【Envy me, seethe with jealousy! I, Empress Muxue, reign supreme!】
...
During the drive, Lin Muxue chatted about Yunxi Tower and grilled fish while snapping photos with her phone.
As they neared Xingyue City’s parking, she angled her phone for a selfie, but used the rear camera to capture Tang Song’s profile.
She checked the photo.
His striking side profile, with the Bentley’s emblem and luxurious interior as a backdrop, exuded irresistible charm.
Lin Muxue’s heart skipped a beat, recalling Tang Song’s commanding presence at the Investment Conference.
The overlapping images of his reserved elegance and commanding confidence made her pulse quicken.
The upscale grilled fish restaurant on Xingyue City’s fifth floor had a spacious layout, high-end decor, and excellent service.
They ordered a 3-kilogram fish with sides, and Lin Muxue picked out some artfully plated snacks and desserts.
While waiting for the food, she gathered her hair into a stylish clip, giving her an alluring, mature vibe.
Tang Song couldn’t help stealing a few glances.
The food was served quickly, and it was delicious—crispy outside, tender inside, with rich flavors.
As they ate, Lin Muxue chatted comfortably, mostly about Zhao Yaqian.
Halfway through, Tang Song asked, “Do you have any plans after this?”
Lin Muxue’s eyes lit up. “No.”
“Since we’re at the mall, want to shop? I could use your advice on a few things.”
Lin Muxue froze, questioning if she’d misheard.
Did he just ask to go shopping together?
She struggled to maintain her composure, replying, “Sure, I do know a bit about this, and I’m very familiar with Xingyue City.”
A smile she couldn’t contain spread across her face.
With Tang Song’s resources and generous nature, what if he offered her a luxury gift?
Would she accept… or definitely accept?
A thought bubble: 【Ahhhh!】
“Shhh—” A system screen opened.
【Scene Two】
【May 30, 12:26: Lin Muxue agrees to your shopping invitation. To observe her more closely, you propose a game—letting her pick anything she wants, without telling her the card’s balance.】
【If her spending exceeds your card’s balance, she gets nothing.】
【Greed and restraint, gratitude and regret, joy and frustration—observe her emotions carefully for insight into women.】