novelraw Chapter 188: Across the Seas
Chapter 188: Across the Seas
The first-floor hall of the brightly lit shopping center was bustling.
Tang Song stood next to Lin Muxue, attentively observing her emotional nuances. This was the first time he had experienced such a direct and in-depth look into a woman’s thoughts and inner workings, revealing the effects of money, desire, impulse, struggle, and reason.
“No more,” Lin Muxue said, glancing down at the shopping bags in her hands. “I’ve already bought plenty. Thank you, Tang Song.”
Today felt like a dream come true. Often, she’d wake from such dreams with a sense of loss, but this time, it was real—240,000 yuan in under an hour! Even Zhao Yaqian, with her 1.17 million monthly salary, wouldn’t spend so lavishly.
Having experienced such an extraordinary moment was enough to keep her reminiscing for a long time.
A thought bubble appeared above her head: 【Lin Muxue, be content! If you keep splurging, you might lose everything and earn his disdain.】
She tightened her grip on the card, running her fingers over its surface one last time before handing it back. “Here, it’s yours again. Honestly, I’ve never spent money like this before—it’s exhilarating.”
“Alright, game over,” Tang Song said, placing the shopping bags on the ground and pocketing the card.
Lin Muxue joked with a bright gaze, “If there’s ever another opportunity like this, count me in.”
A thought bubble read: 【Please, let me join again!】Tang Song smirked, amused by her playful attitude. Little Xue was full of surprises.
“Let’s put these in the car, then you can help me pick out some things,” he suggested, conscious of the ongoing spending challenge and not wanting to waste time.
Lin Muxue’s heart lifted as she took in their shared spoils. “Sure!”
While waiting for the elevator, the system’s blue screen appeared before him.
【Scene Three】
【May 30, 13:13: After your observation game, you gained clarity about her. Her feelings for you have intensified. To further solidify your influence, use the same card to pay for your purchases and observe her reactions. Select a meaningful gift for her and give it when parting, noting her psychological changes.】
The screen faded just as the elevator arrived.
They descended to B2, stopping at the white Bentley Continental GT.
“Could you help me take a picture, Tang Song? Today’s been so special—I want a keepsake,” Lin Muxue requested hesitantly.
Tang Song, understanding her intentions, smiled. “Sure.”
She subtly arranged the shopping bags to display the logos and posed beside the car, striking a perfect, model-like stance with one leg slightly bent, her expression flawless. She had experience as both a part-time model and a car show model in college, knowing exactly how to highlight her assets.
After snapping the photo, Tang Song shared it to her WeChat. Lin Muxue checked the picture and beamed, eyes gleaming.
With the Bentley as a backdrop and a pile of luxury bags, the image was strikingly powerful.
A thought bubble popped up: 【Finally! I can show off with this!】
After placing the bags in the trunk, Lin Muxue paused before closing it, fingers tracing the luxurious handles. She bit her lip, the slight sting affirming that this wasn’t a dream.
...
Back inside the mall, Lin Muxue’s voice turned warm. “What would you like to buy next, Tang Song? I can help recommend some things.”
Tang Song considered briefly. “I’ll start with what I know. I’ll ask for your help when it comes to clothes and accessories.”
“Alright, whatever you say.” After her earlier spree, Lin Muxue was now docile and attentive.
They went up to the fourth floor, to the electronics section. Tang Song had moved into his luxury apartment some time ago but hadn’t furnished it with items he truly wanted. This was the perfect opportunity to splurge and set up an entertainment room—a “man cave” of sorts.
He picked out mini LED displays, speakers, mice, mechanical keyboards, headphones, bike helmets in various styles, a laser short-throw projector, a PS5, Bose’s L-series speaker system, and a Hasselblad X2D mirrorless camera with two XCD lenses.
Following closely, Lin Muxue’s pulse quickened. Tang Song didn’t seem to care about money at all. Whether it was a 200-yuan mouse or a nearly 140,000-yuan camera, he bought them without hesitation.
Within moments, he had spent over 200,000 yuan with ease.
Watching him use the same card she’d once held, she realized the balance must be far greater than the 250,000 she had assumed. A twinge of bitterness crept in.
After years of hardship, it seemed she still had a narrow mindset.
Back on the first floor, Tang Song patted her lightly on the back. “Your turn, Little Xue. I’m looking for high-quality clothes—suits, casual, seasonal wear. Can you help?”
He wanted to fill up his wardrobe. The 30-square-meter walk-in closet was still largely empty, and many of his clothes no longer fit due to his improved physique.
Lin Muxue nodded, pretending to casually hold his arm. Seeing that he didn’t mind, she boldly looped her arm around his.
She led him to the Kiton boutique, known as the pinnacle of men’s fashion—the Rolls-Royce of suits. The store’s decor was extravagant, staffed by sharply dressed attendants. Prices reflected this luxury, with even basic suits starting at over 60,000 yuan and T-shirts priced at nearly 9,000.
Lin Muxue’s fashion sense shone as she helped him choose outfits that suited his body and skin tone. Watching him try on clothes, his tall frame and striking features highlighted by tailored elegance, made her face flush. She kept snapping photos under the pretense of showing him the results.
With the weight of wealth and charisma, Tang Song was the most attractive man in her eyes—her ideal.
After trying on several outfits, Tang Song selected the most comfortable ones and informed the attendant, “I’ll take these. I’ll leave an address for delivery.”
The property service at Yanjing Tiancheng included delivery, making bulk purchases easy.
“Of course, sir! We’ll handle it immediately,” the young, dapper salesman replied eagerly.
Other idle staff joined in to help pack the purchases, making them the center of attention in the store.
Lin Muxue felt the envious eyes of others and stood closer to Tang Song, discussing fabric quality and craftsmanship to showcase her “knowledge.”
The total for the clothes came to 520,000 yuan.
Watching Tang Song pull out the familiar card to pay, Lin Muxue’s pupils contracted. She bit her lip, tears glistening in her eyes.
Over 1 million yuan spent in total! That could buy a Porsche Cayenne, five LV Sahara bags, or the down payment for a Yanjing Huating property!
From Tang Song’s nonchalant demeanor, it was clear that he wouldn’t mind if she had spent more.
I missed my chance. Again.
She would have broken down crying if not for her pride.
“Let’s go, Little Xue,” Tang Song said, noting the waves of thoughts swirling above her head. No wonder the 【Whispers of Humanity】 had chosen her; her psychological complexity was rich.
They continued through the luxury section, where Tang Song picked up more skincare products, fashion pieces, and women’s items for gifting.
Each swipe of the ordinary bank card, followed by a successful printout, made Lin Muxue’s smile grow increasingly forced. Her emotions oscillated between regret and acceptance, tangled and difficult to unravel.
...
They walked into the opulent Vacheron Constantin store, met by an enthusiastic saleswoman.
Her experience told her these two were big spenders.
Tang Song exchanged pleasantries before giving Lin Muxue a nudge and a look: “Little Xue, show me your expertise.”
She perked up and approached a display, pointing to a watch. “This is the Overseas 4300V, an ultra-thin perpetual calendar model. It has an 18k white gold case and sapphire crystal back.”
“You’re spot-on,” the saleswoman said, adding, “We’re currently offering two extra straps, alligator leather and rubber, easy to swap for different occasions.”
Tang Song nodded. “I’d like to try it on.”
The saleswoman carefully retrieved the watch, but before she could continue, Lin Muxue stepped in to fasten it on Tang Song’s wrist. “It looks amazing!” she said sincerely.
Under the dazzling lights, the watch gleamed on his well-proportioned wrist.
A thought bubble appeared: 【I wish I could hold that hand!】
“It’s great,” Tang Song said, glancing at her. “Do you have a recommendation for a women’s watch?”
He already knew her preferences from reading her thoughts.
Lin Muxue bit her lip and pointed to another display, “This pink-gold Overseas 2305V is lovely. Priced at 230,000 yuan, it’s adorned with 84 round-cut diamonds weighing a total of one carat.”
Jealousy and longing flitted through her eyes. Her priciest watch was a second-hand Cartier she’d bought for 13,000 yuan, her go-to accessory for maintaining her “financial expert” image.
Yet she knew this luxury was beyond her. Asking outright would seem presumptuous and greedy.
Tang Song observed her reactions before taking off the men’s watch and looking at the women’s piece. It reminded him of the Rolex he’d once bought for Wen Ruan but had a more stylish edge.
He smiled and said to the saleswoman, “I’ll take both.”
The saleswoman blinked, restraining her excitement. “The 4300V is priced at 720,000 yuan, and the 2305V at 230,000 yuan, totaling 950,000 yuan. We’ll include four straps as a bonus.”
Tang Song nodded. “Sounds good. Let’s do it.”
Lin Muxue’s heart skipped as she saw him swipe the card.
When the payment was approved, the familiar China Merchants Bank card still intact, her vision blurred for a moment.
More than 2.1 million yuan spent, and she had only used 240,000!
Dizzy, she followed him out of the store, her throat dry. Finally, she couldn’t resist. “Tang Song, can you tell me… how much money is in that card?”
She quickly added, “I’m just curious. No worries if you’d rather not say.”
Tang Song’s eyes sparkled as he replied, “Guess.”
She stared at him, fingers tracing the air as she counted. “Three million? No? Five million?”
The realization hit her with a jolt.
Five million yuan! Enough to buy a house at Yanjing Huating and a Porsche.
With those, her social standing would be set, her illusions turned to reality. She could proudly show off her home and car, joining the upper circles.
Regret coiled around her like a snake, suffocating.
I was so naive. Truly!
...
Tang Song held up two gift bags. “Time’s up, Little Xue. We should head back; there’s work this afternoon.”
Her eyes, red-rimmed, met his. She opened her mouth but said nothing. With a heavy heart, she followed him to the car and slipped into the passenger seat.
“Clunk!” The door closed, snapping her from her reverie. She flexed her fingers, nails pressing into her palms as she regained composure.
Looking at him with a hint of sadness, she realized it was too late. Even if she hadn’t estimated the card’s value conservatively, she wouldn’t have dared to buy a car or house outright. Fear of judgment had held her back.
She sighed, leaning into the plush seat, eyes closing.
The car hummed to life.
Five minutes later, the white Bentley parked in Yunxi Tower’s B2 lot.
Tang Song lightly touched her arm. “We’re here, Little Xue.”
She opened her eyes, brushing back loose strands of hair. “Thank you, Tang Song. I had an amazing day. If you need anything, feel free to ask—I’m not that busy at work.”
She had reconciled with reality. She’d walked away with 240,000 yuan worth of luxury, a taste of wealth that fulfilled a life goal.
Looking at Tang Song, the billionaire who had made it happen, gratitude and admiration filled her heart. Her regret lay in her own hesitance.
She shifted in her seat, the sensation of money’s power washing over her, overwhelming yet addictive.
Tang Song, noticing her thought bubbles, smiled. He picked up a Vacheron Constantin bag and placed it on her lap. “Take it.”
Her eyes widened, words stuttering, “Tang Song… you… this watch…”
“It’s a gift for accompanying me today. I hope you like it,” he said.
Lin Muxue’s hands trembled, breaking her composed front. Tears shimmered in her eyes as she gasped, “The Overseas watch… you’re giving it to me?”
“Yes, you chose it, didn’t you? I figured you’d like it.”
Overcome, she leaned forward and kissed his cheek.
A thought bubble appeared: 【Tang Song! I love you so much!】
“Shhh—” The blue system screen reappeared, and the thought bubbles dissolved.
The background shifted, and lines of text filled the display.
Lin Muxue’s character model stood at the center, surrounded by luxury store counters showcasing designer bags, gleaming jewelry, and elegant fashion.
【Special Event Instance: Whispers of Lin Muxue, completed】
【Evaluation in progress…】
【Observer (Tang Song) rating: S (Excellent)】
【Subject (Lin Muxue) performance rating: SS (Outstanding)】
【You gained +1 charm】
【You obtained the special item “Mirror of the Self”】 ᴛʜɪs ᴄʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀ ɪs ᴜᴘᴅᴀᴛᴇ ʙʏ novel[f]ire.net