novelraw Chapter 265: Company Growth and a Sense of Security
Chapter 265: Company Growth and a Sense of Security
The piercing ringtone of a phone jolted Tang Song awake. He carefully removed the beautician's hand from his body, grabbed his phone from the bedside table, and checked the screen.
[Lu Ziming]
Glancing at the still-sleeping beautician, Tang Song got out of bed quietly and stepped into the hallway before answering.
“Hello, Ziming.”
“Morning, Old Song!” Lu Ziming’s voice sounded excited. “I called to thank you for helping my sister get that promotion.”
Tang Song chuckled. “Oh, Little Jing mentioned it yesterday. Congrats to Sister Ziyue.”
“I don’t even know how to thank you. My sister told me this morning after watching Su Yu’s concert last night with her husband. Do you have time soon? Come over for a meal. My parents are really grateful. Hey, if Tian Jing can join us, that’d be even better!”
Tang Song thought for a moment before replying, “I’ve been swamped lately, so I’ll have to pass for now. Let’s plan something after things settle down. Also, no need to be so formal. I owe you one for renting that apartment to me so cheaply back then.”
“Hah, you can’t compare that. You don’t know the half of it—this promotion is huge for my sister. We owe you a major favor.”
Lu Ziming went on to explain the situation, and Tang Song quickly got the gist of it.Zhongcheng Group, a well-known conglomerate in the province, operated three main business segments: food and beverages, textiles, and real estate.
Lu Ziyue worked in the food and beverage division. At 31 years old, she had been stuck as a sales supervisor for four years.
The company was rife with internal factions and fierce competition. Although she’d had multiple opportunities for promotion in the past, rivals had sabotaged her each time.
In her department, even some subordinates had connections and were eyeing her supervisor position.
As a married but childless woman, she had been in a precarious position.
Now, with her promotion to Sales Manager for the South China region, all her crises were resolved. It was a chance to shine, paving the way for a brighter future.
After discussing Zhongcheng Group, Lu Ziming suddenly shifted topics.
“Our company recently started conducting due diligence on Shimmer Coffee. Things aren’t going smoothly. Sister Shuyu seems to be under a lot of pressure. You’ve been working part-time there, right? Has she mentioned it to you?”
Tang Song raised an eyebrow. “No, what’s the issue?”
During the private banking event, Xie Shuyu had told him about reaching a cooperation agreement with Tiancheng Capital. Since then, both had been busy, and with the mini-program update completed, the CEO hadn’t contacted him much.
“There are disputes between Shimmer Coffee’s shareholders and the company during the due diligence process, posing significant legal risks.
“Additionally, in the report issued by our partner Rongxin Venture Capital, they flagged concerns about debt and cash flow.
“Our investment committee is highly skeptical, but for now, things are proceeding normally.”
They chatted a bit more before ending the call.
Tang Song frowned slightly and opened WeChat, pulling up Xie Shuyu’s chat.
After hesitating briefly, he decided against messaging her.
He had been studying financing and investment knowledge to complete the task [Rising Capitalist], and he now had a basic understanding of the process.
Corporate financing was typically a slow process, especially with formal investment firms like Tiancheng Capital.
From project initiation and term sheet signing to due diligence and the final investment agreement, it usually took around two months.
Currently, both sides had signed a term sheet, preventing other investors from intervening during this period.
If he wanted to invest, he’d have to wait until the agreement was terminated.
Better to deal with the matters at Fanfu Suzi Media before considering this.
Just then, the door to the second bedroom creaked open, and He Liting stepped out hesitantly.
“G-good morning,” she greeted, quickly averting her eyes.
What the heck!
Tang Song… wearing just boxers?
She had always known he had a great physique but hadn’t expected it to be this impressive.
His muscles were perfectly sculpted, his six-pack clearly defined. The combination of broad shoulders, a narrow waist, and his handsome face made her nose itch.
“Morning.” Tang Song smiled, checking the time on his phone. “It’s already 9 a.m. Get ready, and we can head to work together. My car’s downstairs.”
“Oh! Okay!” He Liting nodded enthusiastically but couldn’t help sneaking another glance, her eyes wide.
Once the door to the master bedroom closed, she slapped her flushed cheeks and darted back into her room, her mind swirling with thoughts of Tang Song’s looks.
And the prospect of sitting in his passenger seat later only made her heart race more.
A white Volkswagen pulled up along the roadside, and three young people stepped out.
One man and two women, all in their mid-twenties, radiated an air of youthful confidence.
Dong Zhiping pulled out his phone and dialed. “Hello, Senior Mengting, we’re downstairs.”
“Mm-hmm, got it. The 30th floor, right? We’ll head up now.”
“Bye, see you soon.”
He hung up and turned to the two women beside him, smiling. “Let’s go, Seniors. Let’s check out this company and see what’s what.”
The three of them were alumni of Gao Mengting from Yan City University, all currently working in live-stream e-commerce.
Their visit was prompted by Gao Mengting’s enthusiastic invitation as she hoped to recruit them for her company.
However, for young professionals like them, a startup didn’t hold much appeal. Their interest was mostly curiosity, wanting to see what kind of company this notable senior from their university days had established.
As they approached Yunxi Tower, Zhang Mo couldn’t help but comment, “Whatever else, I have to admit, I like this location. The building looks pretty impressive. Xiao Mei, you were in the same class as Mengting and know her well. What do you know about this company of hers?”
Zhang Mo had met Gao Mengting through their time in the student council but wasn’t particularly close to her.
Currently, Zhang Mo worked for a major fashion e-commerce company in Shenzhen, enjoying a good salary and a solid platform.
She had taken advantage of the Dragon Boat Festival holiday to return to Yan City, mainly to visit her alma mater and spend time with her parents. Stopping by here was merely a detour.
“Not much,” Li Xiaomei said, shaking her head. “I used to visit her Meiting Discount Fashion Store a lot back when she started it in her senior year. But this new company seems to be just over two months old. I heard it has an independent office and about ten employees, so it’s probably more like a small studio.”
“Speaking of which, Mengting’s been through a lot. Just when her old store was starting to gain traction, her two roommates stabbed her in the back, and everything collapsed.”
Li Xiaomei added softly, “There’s a lot of messy stuff involved in that situation. Since we don’t know the full story, it’s better not to get tangled up in it.”
While she was close to Gao Mengting, Li Xiaomei was even closer to Shen Huijuan and Zhao Jingmin—the roommates in question.
She had no intention of switching jobs and was here purely out of curiosity.
Beside them, Dong Zhiping chuckled. He wasn’t particularly interested in Songmei Fashion, the small company in question. His primary objective was to connect with Senior Gao Mengting.
During their university days, Gao Mengting had been a shining star—vice president of the student council, beautiful, kind, academically outstanding, earning tens of thousands through part-time jobs, buying a Wuling Hongguang, and starting her own fashion business.
She had been the goddess in the hearts of many male students, including Dong Zhiping.
He greatly admired his accomplished senior and had previously tried to arrange a meal with her under the guise of a professional discussion, only to be politely declined (Chapter 167).
Now, visiting her company was his way of trying again.
As long as the company wasn’t too problematic, he intended to join.
His plan was simple—proximity. Build a good relationship with Senior Mengting first, and then slowly work on winning her over.
…
At the front desk, the three visitors completed their registration and proceeded smoothly to the elevator lobby.
Surrounded by the elegant decor and the professionally dressed men and women coming and going, Zhang Mo whispered excitedly, “This place is amazing! Say what you want, but this office environment is way better than my company’s in Shenzhen. I’m actually kind of tempted.”
Li Xiaomei smiled. “Office rents in Yan City aren’t that expensive. It can’t compare to first-tier cities like Shenzhen.”
“Ding—” The elevator doors opened slowly, and the three stepped inside.
Almost immediately, the two women’s eyes lit up, drawn to a striking figure standing in the corner of the elevator.
He was tall, with sharp, elegant features and an air of refinement. His fitted business-casual summer outfit only enhanced his elite demeanor.
He looked like a leading man straight out of a workplace drama.
Zhang Mo nudged Li Xiaomei excitedly, her eyes practically shouting, “He’s ridiculously handsome!”
Li Xiaomei nodded, blushing slightly.
For ordinary white-collar workers like them, a man like this ticked every box in their fantasies about professional heartthrobs.
Dong Zhiping noticed their reactions and smirked to himself. So shallow! Senior Mengting would never be like this—she’s the epitome of an intellectual woman who values substance over appearance.
Then his gaze shifted to the woman standing beside the man. She was wearing a floral dress, with a healthy and well-proportioned figure and bright, cheerful features. She was quite pleasant to look at.
Unable to resist, Dong Zhiping found himself sneaking a glance at her as well.
The elevator stopped at various floors before finally arriving at the 30th.
Zhang Mo and Li Xiaomei hesitated as they watched the handsome man also step out on their floor.
So he’s here too?
As they exited the elevator, a familiar voice greeted them.
“Zhiping, Xiaomei, Momo, good morning!”
Turning, they saw a tall, elegant figure approaching them.
Dressed in a white blouse and jeans, her hair naturally voluminous and her features graceful and striking, Gao Mengting was the picture of an atmospheric beauty.
Dong Zhiping hurried forward, his eyes lighting up. “Good morning, Senior!”
Zhang Mo waved enthusiastically. “Long time no see, Mengting. You’re as beautiful as ever!”
Li Xiaomei, with a hint of envy in her eyes, also gave a warm greeting.
Gao Mengting nodded in acknowledgment and was about to speak when her gaze shifted to the two people who had exited the elevator behind them. “Oh… President Tang, Yiyi, you’re here too.”
“Good morning, Ms. Gao!” He Liting greeted sweetly.
“Morning, Mengting.” Tang Song approached with a warm smile.
What a pity, he thought to himself. I didn’t wear my [Summer Whisper] outfit today, or we’d be matching like a couple again.
Remembering the moments they’d shared before, he couldn’t help but smile knowingly. He gave her a friendly pat on the shoulder. “Not bad! You look so lively today—it’s great.”
Gao Mengting’s cheeks turned slightly pink as she smiled back. “President Tang, you look great too.”
Watching their interaction and the casual intimacy of their gestures, Dong Zhiping’s expression froze.
Alright, Senior. Turns out you’re shallow too!
Zhang Mo glanced at Tang Song and couldn’t help but ask, “Mengting, is this handsome guy your colleague?”
Gao Mengting smiled and patted Tang Song’s arm. “This is my business partner and the president of Songmei Fashion, Tang Song.”
“And this is He Yiyi, one of our company’s livestream hosts.”
The three visitors froze for a moment, their expressions a mix of surprise and wonder.
Zhang Mo’s eyes lit up, her interest in Songmei Fashion skyrocketing.
With such a dreamy CEO, how could this place not be appealing? she thought. If this charming boss fell for me, a humble girl, it would be like a real-life fairy tale!
Dong Zhiping glanced between Tang Song and Gao Mengting, his face pale.
Gao Mengting continued introducing them, “President Tang, these are my university alumni. This is Dong Zhiping, a market analyst at a major e-commerce company in Hangzhou who recently left his position.”
“This is Zhang Mo, an operations manager for a top-tier livestreaming team currently based in Shenzhen.”
“And this is Li Xiaomei, a content editor for a short video platform in Guangzhou.”
She added with a smile, “Since it’s Dragon Boat Festival and they’re in Yan City, I thought I’d invite them to explore opportunities here, as our company is recruiting.”
Tang Song greeted them politely.
Clapping her hands, Gao Mengting said, “Alright, classmates. Let’s head inside. I’ll show you around and introduce you to our company.”
The three nodded and followed her through the glass doors into the office.
Inside, they were greeted by a brightly lit, stylish, and bustling workspace.
The open-plan office featured a white-dominated color scheme, complemented by soft grays and rich browns, creating an elegant yet welcoming atmosphere.
There were silent carpets, sleek ceilings, vibrant green plants, and rows of custom desks with ergonomic chairs—all meticulously arranged. Updates are released by novelꞁire.net
The overall effect was stunning.
Zhang Mo’s eye twitched. “This company… is pretty impressive.”
The office environment easily outclassed her own company’s by miles.
Li Xiaomei covered her mouth in amazement, exclaiming, “How are there so many people here? I thought it was a startup! The office is huge too!”
This was far from what her friends had described.
Seeing their shocked expressions, Gao Mengting felt a wave of satisfaction.
“We currently have 58 full-time employees,” she explained. “Our primary departments—HR, finance, livestream operations, marketing, product selection, and logistics—are all fully staffed. The company is in a rapid expansion phase.”
As she spoke, she led them on a tour, showcasing the luxurious 2,010-square-meter office space, three top-tier livestream studios, and a range of high-end office facilities.
The three visitors were in awe, their gazes at Gao Mengting shifting to one of admiration and disbelief.
To think the shining vice president of the student council had risen to such heights!
Dong Zhiping abandoned his previous notions and began seriously considering the job opportunity she had offered.
Meanwhile, Zhang Mo, her face flushed, grabbed Gao Mengting’s hand and said earnestly, “Ms. Gao, I really like the idea of working at Songmei Fashion. Please consider me!”
Realizing that Gao Mengting was genuinely offering her an opportunity, Zhang Mo could find no reason to refuse—an impressive company close to home and a dreamy CEO? It was perfect.
Beside her, Li Xiaomei hesitated before saying shyly, “My current job has such a stifling environment. I’ve been thinking of leaving for a while now.”
Gao Mengting’s smile widened. “If you’re interested, prepare your resumes!”
4:00 PM
CEO’s Office.
“These three alumni of yours have impressive resumes. Let’s interview them together tomorrow. But right now, the most urgent need for the company is skilled product selectors and livestream operations specialists. Yan City is just too small to attract the right talent,” Tang Song said, setting down the résumés he had been reviewing.
He continued, “Also, I’ve arranged with Li Zicheng to visit Beijing next Monday. I’ll meet the candidates Bocai Yingrui recommended and push to finalize the team assembly as soon as possible.”
“Alright, don’t worry about things in Yan City. I’ll take good care of the company here,” Gao Mengting replied seriously, her gaze bright and resolute as she looked across at Tang Song.
Today, her partner seemed particularly different.
He was showing unprecedented enthusiasm and dedication to the job.
He had taken the initiative to conduct a training session with the new employees, held thorough reviews of the company’s recent livestreams with key team members, analyzing sales figures, user feedback, and return rates.
Combining this with the market analysis reports, they had fine-tuned the upcoming livestream content and product selections.
The company had recently expanded at a rapid pace and had invested significant capital.
As someone with little management experience, Gao Mengting had been walking on eggshells, fearing that one misstep could lead to disaster.
But today, Tang Song’s sense of responsibility and leadership filled her with a newfound sense of security.
This partner had never let her down.
He always stepped up when she needed him the most.
They exchanged a few more words about recruitment before she departed.
Watching her graceful and poised figure disappear, Tang Song lowered his head and returned to his work with focus.
The incident with Su Yu had spurred a sense of urgency within him, and he was now fully committed to advancing the [Phase Two Growth Plan Task].
After all, only with a high enough charm rating could he unlock more system privileges and get closer to Secretary Jin.
The company was currently integrating a wave of new hires, and the team was in a crucial adjustment period.
Over the Dragon Boat Festival holiday, they planned to hold three livestreams. Tang Song saw this as an opportunity to meet with department heads individually and finalize the personnel structure. Completing the [Perfect Structure] task was a priority.
In addition, the due diligence on Fanfu Suzi Media by Slover Trust was nearing completion.
No issues had been found—it was a well-run, healthy company.
Tang Song planned to visit Fanfu Suzi Media on Sunday to meet with his alumna Guo Liyuan and the company’s majority shareholder. Together, they would draft and negotiate the [Investment Term Sheet].
Once these matters were settled, he would head straight to Beijing.
By now, Wen Ruan should already be there. Next week, he’d surprise her and accompany her to her classmate’s wedding.
He was confident that this big sister would be moved beyond words, making the recruitment of his second companion a natural progression.
Tang Song chuckled softly at the thought, his eyes brimming with confidence and vitality.
Beijing, a city where he had spent three years of his life, felt like a distant memory despite being away for only a little over six months.
There were still many friends and colleagues there—and, of course, Secretary Jin.
“Ding-dong—”
The notification sound of WeChat pulled him from his thoughts.
[Zhang Ziqi: “President Tang, Zhuangzhuang has arrived in Beijing. She’s staying at the Lavande Hotel in a standard twin suite with her assistant Zhang Xintong.”]
[Zhang Ziqi: Room photo.jpg]
Tang Song smiled and sent a generous red envelope to his efficient and perceptive informant.