novelraw Chapter 230: How Do I Tell My Boyfriend About My Unusual Hobby?
Chapter 230: How Do I Tell My Boyfriend About My Unusual Hobby?
Monday, June 12, 2023, Sunny, 17–31°C.
Inside the swiftly moving high-speed rail business-class cabin:
“Ding-dong—” “Ding-dong—”
The Bluetooth earphones continually chimed with notification sounds.
Tang Song leaned quietly against his seat, with a MacBook, coffee, and a few packs of snacks on the table before him.
His long, nimble fingers tapped away on the keyboard, a rhythmic “click-click-click.”
It was Monday, and the weekend's pile of backlogged work was rushing in like a flood.
Proposals from Huashang Fushi, audit plans…
Executive meeting reports from Jinxiu Commerce, progress updates from the technical support team…
And of course, the most overwhelming workload came from Songmei Fashion: budgets, procurement requests, reimbursement applications, recruitment processes…One notable piece of news was that Liu Mingchang had officially joined the company this morning as Director of the Warehousing and Logistics Department.
Tang Song had been in the Bulgari Hotel suite at the time and had a quick video chat with him.
By now, Songmei Fashion was running smoothly, with department expansions nearing completion, and recruitment efforts underway in collaboration with Bocai Yingrui.
As the owner of the company, Tang Song's workload had significantly increased compared to before.
Although Gao Mengting handled most major decisions, he still needed to personally oversee key matters such as finances and personnel.
Fortunately, the OA (Office Automation) system he had developed was highly efficient, saving him a lot of effort and time.
The reason for his hurried return to Yan City wasn’t just to attend a Jinxiu Commerce meeting. There was also something far more important.
The 1,810-square-meter office space on the 30th floor of Yunxi Tower was finally fully renovated.
This also meant it was time to start the challenge task: "Shocked Employees."
After all, the size of the "Shock Gift Pack" would be directly related to the employees’ shock value during the livestream.
Besides setting up a high-spec livestream room, he had prepared a surprise gift sure to send his employees into a frenzy.
Outside the window, buildings and fields zipped past in reverse. Inside the train car, Tang Song, wearing glasses, looked full of vitality as he immersed himself in efficient work.
His thoughts were clear, and his replies were concise and quick.
With his Comprehension breaking through 80, he could clearly feel the changes in himself. Everything felt easier, and his learning efficiency had skyrocketed.
Taking a moment to check the system panel, he glanced at his stats:
[Player: Tang Song (56' Charisma)]
[Role: Songmei Fashion - President]
[Height: 182 cm, Weight: 80 kg]
[Physique: 70 (68+2), Endurance: 67, Agility: 62, Comprehension: 82 (81+1)]
[Assets Overview:]
Balance: ¥4.308 million (Investment funds: ¥200 million, Renovation funds: ¥600,000)Enterprises:Songmei Fashion (75% equity)Slover TrustHuashang Fushi (35% equity)Bocai Yingrui (35% equity)Properties:Yanjing Tiancheng 390 sqm residenceShengyuan Jiajing 360 sqm townhouseYunxi Tower 2,010 sqm office spaceVehicles:Bentley Continental GT (Mercedes S450L, etc.)Ujie Cleaning Services, General Manager’s Office
Zhang Tianqi leaned back in the executive chair, speaking in a gentle tone:
“Yuyan, as you just saw, Hou Shaoyuan and Wang Ning have serious objections to Tang Song. After all, we’re a team. If bringing in a new shareholder disrupts company harmony, I think it’s better not to seek this funding.”
Shen Yuyan pursed her lips tightly, her eyes flashing with a mix of emotions. “We’re increasing equity and expanding shares. Tang Song’s involvement would strengthen our capital reserves, significantly raise our post-investment valuation, and only benefit our development.”
The biggest obstacle to Ujie Cleaning’s growth was funding. But cleaning services lacked a compelling story to attract investment, and with such a transparent market, securing funds was extremely difficult.
Tang Song’s willingness to invest was primarily out of goodwill, thanks to their mutual friend Qingqing.
Beyond the money, she also highly valued Tang Song as a person. She wanted to bring such a talented young man onto the team, injecting fresh vitality into the company.
Zhang Tianqi was silent for a moment before saying, “We’re both founding partners. If this is what you insist on doing, I’ll support you. But… you need to think carefully about whether it’s worth the risk and whether it’s necessary. Hou Shaoyuan is our angel investor and vice president, and Wang Ning is our technical director. Their opinions must be considered.”
He was happy to see Ujie Cleaning raise funds and expand but was unwilling to take on unnecessary risks or complications.
While his family’s wealth didn’t compare to Hou Shaoyuan’s, they owned a sizable business. This cleaning service was more of a convenient side project for him, leveraging his uncle’s connections to make some quick money and prove to his family that he was more capable than his spendthrift brother.
In truth, he wasn’t optimistic about the cleaning industry, which was highly competitive with slim margins. If he had the time, he would rather focus on running his family’s food factory.
When he agreed to partner with Shen Yuyan, it wasn’t just because her influencer platform could generate customers. Her abilities were genuinely exceptional, which allowed him to take a hands-off approach.
Besides, starting a business with the campus belle had been a status symbol.
Over the past two years, he had enjoyed plenty of bragging rights among his college peers, and his initial investment had already multiplied several times over.
For Zhang Tianqi, that was enough.
If Shen Yuyan could secure investments, he would undoubtedly support it. But if the investor in question would affect the company’s operations, careful consideration was required.
Shen Yuyan bit her lip, her thoughts in turmoil. “I understand what you mean, but…”
At that moment, a knock interrupted them.
“Come in!” Zhang Tianqi straightened in his chair, exchanging a glance with Shen Yuyan. Check latest chapters at novèlfire.net
Hou Shaoyuan entered, dressed casually. His gaze went to Shen Yuyan.
“Yuyan, I may have come off too harsh during the meeting earlier. Don’t take it personally.”
“It’s fine. Everyone has their perspectives when it comes to work. As long as we understand each other, that’s enough,” Shen Yuyan replied calmly, betraying no emotion.
“I get your intentions—you want more funds to accelerate Ujie Cleaning’s expansion.” A bright smile spread across Hou Shaoyuan’s face. “After the meeting, I spoke with my family again. When they heard an intelligent home company might invest, my dad changed his mind about the company. He’s agreed to give me 2 million so I can co-invest in this round of financing.”
Shen Yuyan froze momentarily, her feelings a mix of complexity and helplessness.
When it came to increasing equity and expanding shares, original shareholders had priority rights—something she couldn’t block.
Hou Shaoyuan’s 2 million, combined with Gongying Technology’s 5 million, would push Ujie Cleaning’s post-investment valuation close to 20 million.
This outcome was already far better than what she had initially hoped for.
It seemed she no longer had a compelling reason to insist on bringing Tang Song on board.
...
20th Floor of Linjin Tower, Jinxiu Commerce
In the spacious conference room, mid-level and senior managers of the Technical Support Division had gathered.
Li Zhenning, the recently appointed division manager, stood confidently in front of a large screen, occasionally jotting things down as he spoke enthusiastically.
“Tang, our new Inventory Management System 1.0 has passed testing. The upcoming updates will mainly include inventory tracking and alert features, enabling real-time monitoring of product quantities, locations, and batch details...”
With the support of Smile Capital, Jinxiu Commerce had not only secured its foothold in the e-commerce sector but had also started venturing into foreign trade and cross-border e-commerce.
As a result, the demands on its online office system were becoming increasingly complex.
Tang Song was here today to attend the system reconstruction report meeting.
Li Zhenning, recommended by Deju Renhe, had proven to be exceptionally capable, far surpassing his predecessor Chen Yunteng in both technical expertise and management skills.
This made Tang Song’s “hands-off” approach to managing the department all the more effortless.
By 6:30 PM, the meeting concluded.
“Goodbye, Tang!” “See you, Tang!”
Stepping out of the conference room, Tang Song checked his phone and couldn’t help but smile.
[Little Jing: "Song, I’ve ordered dinner for two. It’s in the Compensation and Benefits Office on the 19th floor. Come over after your meeting."]
Having a thoughtful girlfriend had its perks.
After replying to the message, he descended the stairs to the 19th floor, casually observing his surroundings.
Compared to the older office spaces upstairs, this area was more modern and stylish, with updated equipment.
Soon, his eyes landed on a familiar figure—Du Shaokai.
Still with that signature smirk, Du Shaokai was chatting with a female colleague.
Tang Song showed no visible reaction, only casting a cold glance at him before pushing open the glass door to the Compensation and Benefits Office.
Feeling utterly ignored, Du Shaokai’s smile froze. Thinking of Tang Song now dating Tian Jing—a woman he had long been chasing—filled him with rage.
The fact that the “loser” he used to look down on had stolen his goddess, who happened to be the daughter of Tian Chengye, was worse than death.
“Good evening, Tang!” “Hello, Tang!”
The two female colleagues working overtime in the office quickly greeted him as he entered.
From the far end of the office, Little Jing hurried over, her sparkling eyes fixed on him. “Good evening, Tang,” she said sweetly.
Though they were in a workplace setting, she remained mindful of maintaining her professional demeanor as a supervisor.
Still, Tang Song looked exceptionally dashing today in his white shirt and jeans—clean-cut, with sharp facial features, deep eyes, and a straight nose.
He looked like a “Tokyo heartthrob” straight out of a light novel.
“Good evening, Little Jing. You look lovely as always,” Tang Song said warmly, taking in her appearance.
She wore a cropped T-shirt and gray skinny pants, her hair in a low ponytail. She exuded a sweet, alluring vibe. Her slim waist, perky hips, and modest C-cup bust made her look downright delectable.
Tang Song’s appetite was instantly piqued; after a full day of work, he was genuinely hungry.
Little Jing bit her lip lightly, her brows arching as she smiled. “I ordered dinner for us, Tang. Let’s eat together while we discuss the benefits for the Technical Support Division.”
She playfully winked at him and subtly gestured toward the two colleagues.
“Thank you,” he replied.
After exchanging a knowing glance, they moved to her desk area.
Little Jing eagerly opened the food containers and gestured, “Take a look, Tang. I ordered it based on my preferences. If you have any feedback, let me know, and I’ll adjust next time.”
The meal consisted of a healthy, low-fat, high-protein spread: fresh fruit slices, juice, and desserts.
During his time at the company, Tang Song had mostly been eating meals like these, a detail Little Jing had clearly taken the effort to learn from his colleagues.
“I love it, thank you, Little Jing,” Tang Song said, patting her exposed back with genuine appreciation.
Sitting together at her L-shaped desk, they dug into the meal.
As they enjoyed the food, Tang Song took in the faintly luxurious scent of her perfume. When the others weren’t looking, he leaned over and planted a light kiss on her lips.
Little Jing’s pale cheeks turned pink in an instant, and she leaned in to kiss him back.
Her heart raced as she glanced at the unaware colleagues nearby.
Suddenly, she set down her chopsticks and, with a pointed glance, typed something on her computer:
[“Song, I’ve been sitting all day, and my thighs are sore. Since your left hand is free, could you help me massage them?”]
Moments later, a well-shaped hand appeared on her leg, moving skillfully over her tightly clad thigh.
“Yes! Tang Song is so on point!”
Little Jing licked her lips, a mischievous gleam in her eyes. She’d been fantasizing about spicing things up in the office, and now, her wish had come true.
The entire scene had been carefully orchestrated—she had even assigned extra tasks to her two employees to set the stage.
As her thoughts wandered, a warm sensation spread through her leg.
(ÒωÓױ)！
Frozen Expressions and Hidden Excitement
Little Jing’s face froze, but her excitement bubbled to the surface.
Seeing the flushed face of the company goddess bowed low, Tang Song slowed his eating pace.
Little Jing is so amusing!
Clearly shy to the point of trembling, yet trying so hard to hold it together. And to think, this was happening in the office!
After a while, Tang Song leaned closer, his voice soft near her ear:
“Little Jing, I like you.”
“Ah!” The sudden confession startled Little Jing, who quickly covered her mouth and widened her eyes at Tang Song.
Though they’d already been quite intimate before, this was the first time Tang Song had openly expressed his feelings.
She was overwhelmed with surprise, joy, and emotion.
Her lips parted as if to say, “I’ve always thought of you as my comfort fantasy.”
But instead, she shyly leaned toward his ear and whispered, “I like you too, Song.”
“Is that so, Little Jing?” Tang Song’s voice lowered teasingly. “You’re not lying to me, are you?”
Little Jing quickly raised her head and said earnestly, “No, I’m not lying. You were my first kiss.”
Tang Song leaned in slightly, his voice seductive. “Can I feel your true thoughts? Just to be sure.”
“Ugh~” Little Jing shivered, goosebumps rising all over her body. What’s with this unusually charming Tang Song today?
Biting her lower lip, she responded in Japanese, “Sure, Tang Song-oniichan.”
“Little Jing, just ignore me and keep eating,” he added casually.
“Okay.” Little Jing nodded, her hands trembling so much she could barely hold her chopsticks.
7:00 PM
“Goodbye, Tang!” “See you tomorrow!”
The two overtime-working female colleagues packed their things and stood up.
“Oh, right, good night. See you tomorrow,” said Little Jing, waving them off.
North Garden Community
As Shen Yuyan walked through the door, Xu Qing pounced on her.
“Yanyan, finally! Come here, quick—I need your advice!”
Shen Yuyan, who had returned to Yan City near dawn and slept until midday, had barely exchanged words with Xu Qing, who rushed to work earlier in the day.
Hanging her bag and changing into slippers, she slumped wearily onto her best friend. “Go ahead, darling. I’ve got something to tell you too.”
Tang Song’s investment deal—brought in by Xu Qing—had spiraled into uncertainty. She wasn’t even sure how to bring it up.
Xu Qing patted her on the butt and exclaimed, “Remember Guo Liyuan?”
“Of course. Isn’t she in Hangzhou? What about her?” Shen Yuyan raised her eyebrows.
“Sit down. I need to tell you all about it.” Xu Qing pushed her onto the sofa and animatedly recounted her weekend meetup with her online friend.
As Xu Qing described the events, Shen Yuyan’s expression became increasingly incredulous.
Guo Liyuan? Short dramas? General manager of Vulgar Genius Media? Shareholder? Tens of millions in Series A funding?
“What do you think? Should I stay at Kezheng Legal, wait for Ujie Cleaning, or jump ship to Vulgar Genius? You decide for me,” Xu Qing said, propping her legs on her friend’s lap.
Kezheng Legal was an outsourced legal consultancy, and as a legal advisor, Xu Qing had to juggle multiple clients daily, leaving her exhausted.
Now that her novels were gaining traction and an old classmate had extended an olive branch—along with a 50% pay raise—she was deeply tempted.
But she had promised to join Ujie Cleaning as a full-time legal consultant after its funding round. Reneging on her word was not something she took lightly.
To Xu Qing, her best friend’s needs came first. This loyalty was the only reason she hadn’t responded to Guo Liyuan’s offer yet.
Shen Yuyan pondered briefly before saying seriously, “Give me a second to do some research.”
She had heard about the rise of short dramas but hadn’t delved deeply into the subject.
Since this decision would shape her friend’s future, she couldn’t be careless.
Sitting at her computer, Shen Yuyan began meticulously gathering and analyzing information.
Over the past two years, she had developed a knack for efficient data retrieval and synthesis.
Quickly, key points surfaced in her mind:
January 2023: The National Radio and Television Administration issued the Guidelines on Promoting the Prosperity of Short Drama Creation, highlighting the genre’s rapid growth, strong potential, and the need to encourage development.Major long- and short-video platforms had entered the short drama market, launching initiatives to attract more creators.Core Competitiveness: Content and creativity. The market was in its infancy, with high growth potential.Market Features: Expanding user base, high demand, fast investment returns, diverse monetization opportunities.She also looked into Guo Liyuan’s track record at her previous media company in Hangzhou, based on the information Xu Qing provided.
“Phew—” Shen Yuyan let out a long breath, her expression complex.
Compared to the cleaning services industry, short dramas were like fertile, untapped land.
Small-scale, low-quality short dramas could be produced for mere hundreds of thousands, yet the market’s potential was enormous—an exceptional opportunity for entrepreneurship.
The field was heavily favored by capital. If results were achieved, scaling up through funding would be highly likely.
Biting her lip, Shen Yuyan felt a pang of frustration.
The once-unremarkable college classmate Guo Liyuan had somehow pulled far ahead, with Series A funding in the tens of millions—a claim that clearly wasn’t exaggerated.
Choosing the cleaning sector back then had been out of necessity. She felt no passion for it and knew the challenges of scaling such a business.
Her ultimate goal had always been to exit after Ujie Cleaning reached a respectable valuation, selling her shares to fund a venture in a more promising field. Only this path could truly lead to success.
If she could cash out now, she would likely invest directly in Vulgar Genius Media.
Clenching her fists, Shen Yuyan looked at Xu Qing and said earnestly, “Qingqing, switch jobs! The short drama market has incredible potential, and I see a bright future for this company. With your talent for writing novels, you could easily transition into scriptwriting. Once you establish yourself in this field, your future will far surpass anything you can imagine.”
Xu Qing nodded thoughtfully. “But… what about Ujie Cleaning? We had an agreement.”
Shen Yuyan kissed her cheek with a laugh. “Your future is far more important.”
A sudden thought struck her. Perhaps she could introduce this company to Tang Song. If he truly wanted to invest, Vulgar Genius Media would undoubtedly be a better choice.
Yanqing Huating, Luxury Flat
With beige coffee-colored walls, an intricately embroidered carpet, dazzling crystal chandeliers, and a large pink round bed, the French light luxury-style bedroom glowed warmly under the soft light of two ambient lamps.
Fresh from the shower, Little Jing wore nothing but a camisole and leggings, looking irresistibly sexy. Her radiant, alabaster skin seemed to illuminate the entire room.
Her mind replayed the scenes from earlier in the office—moments that left her feeling both shy and exhilarated.
Biting her lip, she sat at her desk, opened her laptop, and navigated to a forum for 2D enthusiasts. Clicking into the posting section, she began typing rapidly.
Tap-tap-tap— Her fingers danced over the keyboard, and line after line of text appeared on the screen:
[Title: How Do I Tell My Boyfriend About My “BT” Hobby?]
[Content: I have some "BT" (a bit taboo) preferences and wish my boyfriend wouldn’t always be so gentle. But I don’t know how to bring it up. I’ve always been the sweet and adorable type of girl. If I tell him this, will he think I’m weird? My boyfriend is gentle, handsome, and considerate—I’m worried he’d hate this kind of behavior. So conflicted! How did you all approach your partners?]
After clicking "post," Little Jing blushed furiously and stomped her feet lightly.
Tang Song had been particularly charming today, teasing her in ways that left her utterly flustered.
The only issue? He was too soft. If only he could be a bit rougher!
As the thought took hold, she found herself opening her folder of saved manga, diving into her favorite stories.
Some time later, she refreshed her forum post to check the responses:
"Try watching something with similar themes together and hint that you enjoy that kind of scenario.""My ex-boyfriend started that way, but after I introduced him to it step by step, he left me because I wasn’t 'BT' enough for him.""You could act a bit rougher during intimate moments… and wait for him to fight back!""I confessed to my boyfriend, and he suggested inviting my best friend over to play cards… now he’s even more 'BT' than me."Little Jing’s cheeks turned an even deeper shade of red as she read through the replies.
How intriguing! Every suggestion seemed worth trying.