novelraw Chapter 190: 4090 and Cosplay
Chapter 190: 4090 and Cosplay
Yan Jing Huating.
A cool breeze passed through the gauze window, lifting the beige curtains as it blew inside.
Zhao Yaqian groggily opened her eyes, feeling the soft bedding and comfortable pillow, as if she were floating on clouds.
Her delicate nose twitched slightly.
The fresh air mixed with the earthy scent of damp soil filled her senses.
She turned her head slightly to look out the window. Threads of rain fell like a curtain, blurring the distant scenery into a hazy outline.
The sleepiness in her eyes gradually faded as she woke up fully.
Sitting up and stretching, she felt a surge of energy fill her body.
In the spacious and luxurious master bedroom, warm ambient lighting cast a soft glow. The tasteful decor, elegant tones, and refined textures...
This place was perfect! The community was fresh and elegant, impeccably clean, and the bed was extraordinarily comfortable.Thinking about how this was her own home, Zhao Yaqian's face lit up with joy.
She picked up her phone to check the time: 8:01 a.m.
Not needing to work and waking up at 8 a.m.? This was truly a dream life.
Then she noticed an unread message.
[Brother: “Ms. Zhao, how’s my skin looking now?”]
[Brother: selfie.jpg]
She opened the picture sent by Tang Song and playfully kissed the screen.
Zhao Yaqian chuckled and, lying on her bed, kicked her legs as she replied with a voice message: "Brother Song, your skin is getting better and better! Except for a bit of uneven skin tone, everything else is great. Keep it up! Also, I miss you, a lot!"
She took a photo of her legs and sent it over, then suddenly jumped out of bed as if a thought had struck her.
She lifted her shorts to check inside.
Victory! Aunt Flo had finally left!
Now she could play basketball passionately with Brother Song again!
Thinking of her boyfriend’s toned body, handsome face, and those flexible, powerful hands...
Zhao Yaqian shivered slightly, licking her pink lips as excitement coursed through her.
Images of Tang Song dribbling, shooting, dunking, and posting up flooded her mind.
Over the weekend, she had bought several pairs of tights in various colors, all ready for fun with Brother Song.
"Buzz buzz—" Her phone vibrated.
[Aunt: “Qianqian, how are things going with your boyfriend? Are you living together? When you have time, bring him over to my house for a visit.”]
Zhao Yaqian bit her lip and replied, "Yes, Auntie, I understand. He’s been really busy lately. When he has time, we’ll come by."
After sending the message, she hesitated for a while before transferring 20,000 yuan to her aunt via WeChat.
She added a note: “Auntie, my mom borrowed 100,000 yuan from you. I’ve got some money now, which I got from my boyfriend, so I’m paying back a part. I’ll continue to repay it when I have more.”
[Aunt: “Oh, you sweet child, I didn’t mean to pressure you! I was just concerned about how you’re both doing.”]
After a brief chat, Yu Wenxia reluctantly accepted the transfer.
Zhao Yaqian, barefoot, walked to the window and pulled back the curtain.
Reaching out, she touched the raindrops sliding down the glass, the chill spreading through her fingertips and into her body.
Her gaze grew distant.
Just because she was naive and inexperienced did not mean she was foolish.
Under her cousin's guidance, she had learned a lot.
An income of 1.17 million yuan a month—if her family knew, the consequences would be unpredictable.
Given her mother’s personality and how their relatives behaved, she might never have a peaceful day again.
It might even create trouble for Tang Song, making him resent her.
So, she hadn’t mentioned the trust fund or her property to her family.
But she did feel deeply for her aunt, which was why she couldn’t help but send that money.
The 100,000 yuan her mother borrowed had been meant for her cousin’s future tuition, causing so much strife at home that her aunt and uncle nearly divorced.
It was obvious that her aunt had been struggling this past year.
This 20,000 yuan would hopefully ease their relationship a bit.
In time, she could say it was borrowed from her boyfriend and gradually pay off the rest.
Having weathered the initial thrill of sudden wealth, Zhao Yaqian was beginning to plan her life more carefully.
Even though she didn’t understand a lot, her instincts told her some changes were necessary.
Just like Little Xue had said, she needed to provide enough emotional value and excitement for him.
If only she could be as clever and graceful as Little Xue; Brother Song would love her even more.
Slipping into her slippers, she opened the door and walked out.
“Good morning, Ting Ting!” Zhao Yaqian beamed at He Liting, who was having breakfast.
He Liting waved her over, “Come and try this sandwich I made. The kitchen here is amazing, especially the open-style western part. All the appliances and cabinets are so high-end.”
The two chatted over breakfast, sharing their thoughts about their new living arrangements.
He Liting looked at her innocent, cheerful cousin and hesitated, but then chose to stay silent.
Yesterday, she had seen with her own eyes how President Gao came out of Tang Song’s office with a Chanel gift box in hand.
The implication was obvious.
In fact, almost everyone in the company could sense the ambiguous atmosphere between them.
This was the reason she hadn’t dared to confess to Tang Song.
But it couldn’t be hidden forever; the truth would come out one day.
What she feared most was that Tang Song would “optimize” her out of the situation if he found out.
If necessary... maybe she should be the one to come clean?
Show that she understood boundaries and would never cause trouble for President Tang.
After finishing breakfast, Zhao Yaqian volunteered to clean up the kitchen.
He Liting tidied her hair, grabbed an umbrella, and set off for work.
The place they lived was only 1.5 kilometers from Yunxi Tower, a quick bus ride away.
The rain meant she didn’t have to rush, and she could take her time.
The residential area, rejuvenated by the downpour, was full of life.
Walking along the damp stone path to the exit, she noticed a tall, shapely figure nearby.
The figure’s waist-to-hip curve was impeccable, accentuated by high heels that swayed elegantly with each step—a mix of allure and grace.
It was Lin Muxue.
He Liting’s gaze fell on the printed umbrella with its upscale wooden handle and luxurious dark-patterned fabric.
LV?
Then her eyes shifted to the silver Chanel logo glittering on Lin Muxue’s bag.
Stockings, a fitted skirt—head-to-toe designer.
She was an exceedingly high-profile, sophisticated woman, and she certainly had the means to back it up.
Lin Muxue, sensing the attention, lifted her LV umbrella and looked over.
Their eyes met. She nodded calmly, “Morning, Ting Ting.”
“Good morning, Little Xue,” He Liting replied, forcing a smile.
“Heading to work?”
“Yeah, waiting for the bus.” He Liting nodded, feeling overwhelmed by Lin Muxue’s sheer presence.
After all, facing a financially savvy, designer-clad, White Rich Beauty Woman was daunting for any girl.
They strolled to the roadside.
Lin Muxue asked nonchalantly, “Where do you work?”
After a moment’s hesitation, He Liting answered honestly, “At Yunxi Tower, not far from here.”
“Oh?” Lin Muxue raised an eyebrow in surprise, about to say more.
A black Mercedes E-Class with flashing hazard lights pulled up.
Lin Muxue smiled, “My ride’s here. Come on, I’m headed to Yunxi Tower too.”
“Oh, alright.” He Liting licked her lips nervously.
Soft, soothing music played inside the car.
The temperature was perfect, and the back seat even offered refreshments.
Lin Muxue crossed her left leg, taking out a small mirror to fix her rain-dampened hair.
Her skirt highlighted her smooth, stocking-clad legs, while her subtle, high-end perfume filled the air.
He Liting glanced at her own outfit and felt a bit self-conscious.
Her clothes were from the company’s stock, bought at a 50% discount—second-tier domestic brands. Next to Lin Muxue, she looked plain.
With a soft “click,” Lin Muxue put away her mirror and leaned back, perfectly at ease.
She had received a 5,000-yuan transfer from Tang Song that morning, which had brightened her mood considerably.
So today, she had splurged on a luxury car service.
Typically, she’d need to hustle for a 1,000-yuan job through Pugongying for days. But now, just by charming Tang Song, she made a month’s pay.
After a while, the car stopped at the drop-off area in front of the building.
Lin Muxue stepped out first, casually showing off her Chanel bag and a sparkling Bulgari necklace that peeked from her slightly open collar.
Her tall, sexy frame and luxurious outfit drew the attention of passersby.
He Liting, following behind, felt out of place as they entered the building.
“Morning, Muxue.”
“Good morning.”
“Morning, Little Xue.”
“Morning
.”
...
It was the start of the workday for Rongxin Ventures. The lobby and elevators were bustling with greetings aimed at Lin Muxue.
“Lili! Morning!” Colleague Zhao Zhiming suddenly approached, with Sun Youguang, who was carrying a backpack, in tow.
He Liting smiled and greeted them but noticed their eyes occasionally darting toward Lin Muxue.
In fact, most of the men in the elevator were stealing glances at her.
In terms of looks alone, Lin Muxue wasn’t breathtakingly beautiful.
What drew so much attention was her mature, subtly seductive aura.
He Liting felt a pang of frustration. Zhao Yaqian, why did you have to tangle with such a vixen? You’re too naive!
They got into the elevator, moving up floor by floor.
When they reached the 19th floor, Lin Muxue lightly tapped He Liting’s arm and smiled, “Ting Ting, I’m getting off here. Bye~”
With that, she sauntered out, swinging her bag.
Zhao Zhiming’s eyes widened, “Lili, is that your friend?”
Sun Youguang also looked over curiously.
He Liting’s mouth twitched, “Yes, she’s a friend.”
...
Entering the company, they checked in.
As they neared the office area, they saw Tang Song sitting at his desk.
They quickly greeted him, “President Tang!”
Tang Song nodded, “We’re discussing feedback on the OA system. Feel free to share your thoughts.”
He Liting placed her bag on the desk and opened her laptop, sneaking a glance at Tang Song.
His long, slender fingers rested lightly on the armrest, legs crossed in a relaxed yet composed posture.
A finely tailored casual suit and an understated white shirt.
A high-bridged nose, thin lips slightly pursed, and a focused, thoughtful expression.
He looked like a male protagonist straight out of a novel.
He Liting’s heart raced, and she quickly looked down to hide her flushed face.
Tang Song was just too captivating! Yaqian, you really don’t know what you’ve got!
Unable to resist, she peeked at him again through the semi-transparent partition.
“Lili! Lili!”
His deep voice called her name, snapping her back to reality. Blushing, she stammered, “President Tang?”
“Come to my office.”
“Oh, okay.” He Liting quickly stood up and followed him.
She softly shut the office door behind her.
Settling on the sofa, Tang Song’s sharp eyes met hers. “Lili, you’ve been working as our deputy anchor for some time now, and your performance has been excellent.”
Her eyes dropped to the cup on the table, and she replied shyly, “That’s because President Tang and Director Gao have been great mentors.”
Tang Song chuckled, “Tomorrow’s June 1st, and I plan to launch two new streaming accounts next month.”
Excited, He Liting lifted her head, “President Tang, do you mean...?”
Tang Song nodded gently, “Yes, one will be for premium items and the other for daily content. You’ll manage the initial operations. If it goes well, I’ll assign one of the studios to you, making you the lead anchor.”
He Liting’s face flushed with excitement. Standing up, she nodded fervently, “Thank you, President Tang! I won’t let you down!”
She didn’t know why the company was opening two studios at once, but this was a rare opportunity.
“Don’t be so tense.” Tang Song smiled encouragingly, “You’ve been doing very well, always the last to leave and putting in sincere effort. Director Gao has praised you multiple times. Keep pushing this afternoon during the broadcast and aim to reach 1 million GMV.”
“Got it! Fighting!” She clenched her fist and gave a playful cheer.
Watching her leave, Tang Song picked up his phone and called Huiguang Decor’s construction manager, Wang Dongliang, for an update.
As soon as he hung up, his phone buzzed again.
It was Zhao Xingzhi from Quanjing Law Firm.
Tang Song’s heart skipped; he already had an inkling of what it could be.
“Hello, Lawyer Zhao.”
“Good morning, President Tang!” Zhao’s steady voice came through. “The transaction for 35% of Huashang Apparel’s shares is nearing completion. It involves two investment firms and three independent investors. We expect to wrap up by this Friday.
Now we need you to confirm a time for next week to visit Huashang Apparel with the original shareholders (or their representatives) for the handover procedures.
Additionally, per company policy, your 35% stake includes two seats on the board, which you can either appoint or take on yourself.”
Tang Song paused, “Thank you, Lawyer Zhao. I’ll think it over and get back to you.”
“Alright, I won’t keep you then. Goodbye, President Tang.”
“Goodbye.”
Ending the call, a crisp system notification chimed in his ear.
“Ding! You have triggered the branch mission [Exercise Your Rights]. Please visit the mission center for details.”
He opened the system interface to check the task.
[Mission Objective: As a major shareholder, you hold partial ownership of Huashang Apparel. Ensure company decisions and operations align with your interests by joining the board and thoroughly understanding the company’s operations.]
[Mission Reward: Mystery Gift Box*1]
He reviewed the reward.
[Mystery Gift Box]: A storage chest that might contain items you’ve acquired in the game.
[Note: It could also be empty.]
Tang Song’s lips curled into a smile.
He enjoyed watching “container mystery box” videos and was naturally drawn to anything with an element of surprise.
Moreover, he planned to join Huashang Apparel’s board, which was crucial for the future growth of Songmei Fashion.
It could also indirectly advance the Growth Plan Task.
He closed the system interface and organized his schedule, deciding on Thursday of the following week for the visit.
After replying to Zhao Xingzhi, Tang Song dove back into work.
---
3:00 p.m.
At Beicheng Garden residential area.
Xu Qing dashed into her building under a white umbrella.
“Thump, thump, thump—” She rushed up to the fourth floor, spotting a courier waiting at the door.
“Sorry, sorry, I’m late,” she said, bending apologetically.
Seeing that his customer was such a cute girl, the courier chuckled, “No worries, just check your packages to make sure everything’s fine.”
“Alright.” Xu Qing took the two packages, her eyes locking onto the big, well-sealed box.
After a thorough check, she sighed in relief, “Everything’s good. Thank you.”
“You’re welcome. Bye~”
“Bye.”
Closing the door behind her, Xu Qing’s face flushed with excitement.
It had finally arrived!
Initially, she had ordered one on Pinduoduo, but after waiting a day with no shipment, customer service told her it was a pre-order, and it was selling out fast.
Determined to get it before Children’s Day, she reached out to every contact she had.
She found Liu Shuaibo, an old classmate from Shenzhen who worked in the digital products industry and used to be in their cosplay club.
When she told him what she needed, Liu immediately promised he’d take care of it.
And now it had arrived just in time!
She opened the packaging and took out a heavy, large box.
Xu Qing examined it closely, wincing at the thought of the expense.
This ugly box had cost her 14,000 yuan!
She didn’t know much about graphics cards, so she had transferred the money to Liu Shuaibo, who handled the purchase.
Looking up the brand and model on her phone, Xu Qing’s eyes widened.
According to her search, it was the “ASUS ROG 4090 Strix,” a flagship model.
It had 24+4 power phases, a 2640MHz boost clock, and more heat pipes than usual.
Most listings priced it over 17,000 yuan.
She quickly messaged Liu, “Shuaibo, how much did this graphics card cost? I see really high prices online. Do I owe you more?”
Fourteen thousand was already stretching her budget. If it cost another 3,000, she’d have to consider selling some of her beloved cosplay outfits to recoup.
“Ding dong—”
[Liu Shuaibo: “Nah, I’m doing well over here in Shenzhen and have access to insider channels, so I can get them cheaper. If you need more parts—CPU, power supply, etc.—just let me know.”]
Relieved, Xu Qing replied, “Thank you, Shuaibo!”
Setting down her phone, Xu Qing’s eyes sparkled as she admired the large card, letting her imagination run wild.
Tomorrow, when Tang Song received this gift, he would surely be moved to tears.
Investments and business deals? Child’s play!
In the quiet living room, soft giggles and excited foot-tapping could be heard.
After a while, Xu Qing cleared her throat and opened the second package.
Out came a Raiden Shogun cosplay outfit.
She had ordered it a month ago from an online seller for 700 yuan—a steal.
The fabric was lightweight and breathable, perfect for summer conventions. The shoulder pads were leather with a subtle shimmer and were well-made.
The Vision ornament was three-dimensional, and the accessories were accurate to the character.
Unable to resist, Xu Qing put it on and applied some makeup.
She assessed herself in the mirror, finding a few small flaws.
The waist sash was too soft and tended to crease, the fabric lacked quality, and the structure was weak, with slight color inconsistencies.
Still, for the price, it was more than worth it.
Playing around a bit, Xu Qing picked up the 4090 graphics card and mimed presenting it as a gift in front of the mirror.
It looked perfect—as long as there was no one around! ʀᴇᴀᴅ ʟᴀᴛᴇsᴛ ᴄʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀs ᴀᴛ NoveI(F)ire.net
Or if it was at a convention, theme park, or arcade.
But if she really showed up dressed like this at a restaurant with Tang Song, it would be as bad as public embarrassment! Total social suicide!
There was no way Xu Qing, a distinguished lawyer, would allow herself to create such a mortifying memory!
After thinking for a moment, she sent Tang Song a message with the restaurant address for tomorrow. “Dinner’s at 7 p.m. I get off work late and need to change first.”
“Buzz buzz—”
[Tang Song: “Got it. By the way, can I request a cosplay character?”]
Xu Qing puffed up her cheeks, annoyed, “No way, it’s a public place, so I need to keep up appearances.”
[Tang Song: “Whenever you’re free, send me some cosplay photos. I’ve been learning photography and just bought a new mirrorless camera. I’d love to arrange a photoshoot with you.”]
Xu Qing’s face turned rosy as she typed furiously, “I don’t do shoots with guys!”
Humph! Did she, Xu Qing, not have her pride?
Just as she was about to hit send—
“Buzz buzz—”
[Tang Song: “Red packet”]
[Tang Song: “Red packet”]
...
Xu Qing’s heart leapt. She quickly opened the red packets. Each was 200 yuan, totaling 1,000 yuan in an instant.
Cashflow restored!
Her eyes sparkled as she grabbed her phone and snapped a few selfies, selecting the prettiest ones to send over.