novelraw Chapter 354: Rolls-Royce Phantom, Xiao Xue’s Former Best Friend
Chapter 354: Rolls-Royce Phantom, Xiao Xue’s Former Best Friend
"Wow, you can tell this place is different the moment you step inside!"
"Look at the entrance design—simple yet refined. It feels so warm and inviting."
"This living room is so bright! And this U-shaped open kitchen is fantastic..."
The moment they stepped into Unit 501 of Building 8, Li Qiaoling’s voice rang out.
Since she worked in an office and was familiar with social etiquette, her words didn’t sound exaggerated but rather heartfelt and genuine.
With such a perfect hype woman, Sales Manager Sun Qiwen beamed with joy and passionately introduced the apartment.
Golden-tier floor, four bedrooms, two living rooms, and three bathrooms. A cloverleaf-style layout with optimal airflow from north to south.
A 4.2-meter-high living room and a south-facing full-length balcony.
Solid wood composite flooring for a comfortable feel underfoot, double-layered ceilings embedded with soft ambient lighting.
The materials used for the renovation were all from well-known brands, emphasizing comfort and practicality.Of course, since it was developer-furnished, it couldn’t compare to the ultra-luxury standards of Yanjing Tiancheng, but it was still top-tier in this city.
For Tang Jianying and Xu Feng, it was more than satisfactory.
Having lived their entire lives in self-built rural homes, where the concept of "interior design" barely existed, this already finished hard renovation meant that only furniture and appliances were needed before moving in.
And with such a spacious home, even if Tang Song brought his future girlfriend home, they wouldn’t feel cramped.
Even if he had two kids in the future, the space would be more than enough.
Throughout the visit, Tang Maolin kept a polite smile, occasionally praising the house, but spent most of his time observing Tang Song and Sun Qiwen.
After looking around for a while, Tang Song turned to his parents and asked softly,
"Mom, Dad, do you like this place?"
"Yes! We love it! This house is fantastic!"
Tang Jianying nodded firmly. "The quality of the renovation is really good, but it must be more expensive than the previous units we saw. Let’s have them calculate the price first."
Having worked in renovations for several years, he recognized the high-end materials and premium brands used—completely different from the other units they had toured earlier.
This was expected.
In prime locations, developers tend to increase renovation quality, which naturally drives up the price.
Beside him, Sun Qiwen quickly added,
"Mr. Tang, please don’t worry about the price. I promise you’ll be very satisfied! Our General Manager Wang will be here soon to discuss the specifics with you."
"Alright," Tang Song nodded lightly.
They then chatted about furnishing plans until a knock on the door interrupted them.
Sun Qiwen hurried over to open it.
"President Wang, you’re here! Mr. Tang and his family are inside."
A middle-aged man with thinning hair, dressed in a short-sleeved blue dress shirt and black slacks, entered.
It was clear that he had rushed over—his forehead was covered in sweat, and he was slightly out of breath.
Wang Yanbin’s gaze briefly paused on Tang Maolin before immediately locking onto Tang Song, who stood tall near the dining area.
Taking a deep breath, Wang Yanbin strode forward with a broad smile.
"Mr. Tang! Thank you for gracing us with your presence—it is an honor for Yun Jing Tai Sales Office!"
"Hello, Manager Wang. I appreciate you coming all this way," Tang Song greeted him politely, shaking his hand.
"Oh, please don’t say that—it’s my pleasure!" Wang Yanbin continued warmly, "If you have any preferences regarding the renovation, layout, or floor selection, just let me know! President Xie and President Zhao have instructed me repeatedly to make sure you’re satisfied!"
"Thank you. This unit is already great—we're very happy with it."
Seeing Wang Yanbin’s unprecedented enthusiasm and Tang Song’s composed demeanor, Tang Maolin’s shock deepened.
Previously, he had some doubts about Tang Song’s so-called "connections."
But at this moment, he was completely convinced—the people Tang Song knew were no joke.
At the very least, they were Handing Group executives.
Even that President Zhao, who invited Tang Song to dinner, wasn’t just making polite conversation.
Tang Maolin, being a Housing and Urban Development Bureau section chief, knew exactly what kind of company Handing Group was.
Founded in 2004, it held first-class national real estate development certification and second-class national property management certification.
It was an enterprise group with 15 subsidiaries and 2,800 employees.
Deeply rooted in Yan Province, it had strong ties with local government—a truly influential local business.
When Handing executives visited a county, they could directly meet with county leaders.
As if noticing his gaze, Wang Yanbin suddenly turned and smiled at him.
"Maolin, what a coincidence! I didn’t expect you and Mr. Tang to be here together. Please forgive me for any previous misunderstandings."
Earlier, his attitude had indeed been perfunctory, and the discounts he offered were standard deals that even major real estate agencies could get.
"Haha, President Wang, there’s no need to apologize!" Tang Maolin quickly regained his composure and laughed heartily.
"Tang Song is my nephew, and I’ve watched him grow up since he was a child.
I just wanted to help out, but it turns out he didn’t need my connections at all. I was just showing off for nothing! Hahaha!"
At that moment, Wang Yanbin took the contract from Sun Qiwen and smiled.
"Mr. Tang, this 160-square-meter, four-bedroom unit is located in a prime area with an excellent layout. The normal price is 9,200 yuan per square meter.
However, we’re giving you a 40% discount, bringing the price down to 5,500 yuan per square meter.
The total comes to 880,000 yuan, and we’re also including a 30-square-meter basement storage unit and waiving 5 years of property management fees.
Additionally, we have reserved several parking spots under Building 8—normally priced at 130,000 yuan each, but we’re offering them to you for 50,000 yuan each.
You can select one when you’re ready."
As Wang Yanbin listed the figures, Tang Jianying and Xu Feng were utterly stunned.
A 40% discount, a free storage unit, and parking spots reduced from 130,000 to 50,000 yuan?!
At this price, they could only buy a basic apartment in the county’s southern outskirts.
Nothing even close to Yun Jing Tai’s premium living environment.
By noon, they returned to the sales office to finalize the contract.
They bought the apartment and three parking spots, bringing the total to 1.06 million yuan, including taxes and maintenance fees.
The property ownership was registered under his parents' names, and Tang Song paid in full.
Watching his parents' emotional expressions, Tang Song smiled brightly.
It was one of his lifelong wishes finally coming true.
Unlike his properties in Yanjing Tiancheng and Shengyuan Scenic Residence, which were arranged by the system, this was his first home purchase.
There was a time when owning a home felt like an impossible dream for their family.
His parents had spent years studying real estate ads, monitoring price fluctuations, and calculating when they could afford a home.
For their generation, a home was far more important than any luxury car.
Now, their dream had come true.
As they stepped out of the sales office, Tang Jianying turned to Tang Maolin.
"Maolin, see you at Huajing Grand Hotel! We’ll meet in the private room you booked."
"Don’t worry, I’ve already arranged for Room 306!"
"Great, see you soon!"
As Tang Song’s silver Mercedes S-Class drove away, Tang Maolin and Li Qiaoling exchanged stunned looks.
Not long ago, people were gossiping about Tang Jianying’s debts.
And now?
They had risen to an entirely different level. Tʜe source of this ᴄontent ɪs novel·fiɾe·net
After purchasing their new home, Tang Jianying and Xu Feng were overwhelmed with excitement and emotions.
With Tang Maolin’s deliberate flattery, the family dinner was an absolute success—everyone enjoyed themselves thoroughly.
By the end of the meal, both Tang Jianying and Tang Maolin were slightly drunk.
As Tang Song stepped out to settle the bill, Tang Maolin reflected on his interactions with him throughout the day.
The more he thought about it, the more impressed he became.
He had met plenty of capable people in his career, but Tang Song’s intelligence, poise, and charisma were on a different level.
Draining his glass in one gulp, he slung an arm around Tang Jianying’s shoulder and sighed with emotion.
"Jianying, Xu Feng, you two are truly blessed.
Our Tang family... is about to rise like a true dragon!"
System Notification: Challenge Completed
Just as Tang Song approached the private dining room door, a crisp system prompt rang in his ears.
Ding! Congratulations, player. You have completed the challenge: [Parental Recognition].
A soft glow appeared before his eyes, and lines of text floated up.
[Reward Calculation in Progress…]
[You returned to your hometown and, throughout your time with your parents, remained humble and sincere. Without excessive flaunting, you proved your abilities, career success, and future potential—earning your parents' deep recognition.]
[You have received a reward: Random Gift Pack ×1]
Tang Song paused mid-step, his eyes lighting up with joy.
He had nearly forgotten about this challenge.
But in truth, this wasn’t just a mission—it was his genuine desire.
Gaining his parents' recognition and ensuring their happiness had brought him an immense sense of fulfillment.
Opening the system interface, he entered his inventory.
There, a golden shimmering gift pack lay quietly.
Seated in the rest area of the hallway, Tang Song clenched his fists in anticipation and selected the Random Gift Pack.
Ding! You have received the [Safe Travel Set].
Ding! You have gained +2 Agility.
Ding! You have unlocked a hidden attribute bonus: +1 Luck.
[Safe Travel Set]: Includes (Rolls-Royce Phantom ×1, Security Driver ×1).
Note 1: The security driver will contact you soon. Phone number: 188….
Note 2: Your parents worry about your safety while traveling and only wish for your well-being.
Note 3: Secretary Jin feels the same.
As he read the reward details, Tang Song’s eyes gleamed with excitement.
This was beyond what he had anticipated.
The most valuable reward was undoubtedly [+1 Luck].
Having experienced the effects of the [Badge - Lucky Me], he deeply understood how important "luck" was.
Even a mere 1-point increase could subtly influence fate, improving his fortune in unexpected ways.
In addition to that…
He now owned a Rolls-Royce Phantom with a professional security driver and team.
Of course, Tang Song was no stranger to this legendary ultra-luxury vehicle.
The Phantom series had been around since 1925, boasting nearly a century of history.
As Rolls-Royce’s flagship model, its price exceeded 10 million yuan, making it a true symbol of ultimate luxury and prestige.
In the game [Heartthrob Growth Plan], he had even purchased one himself.
Chances were, the system had rewarded him with that exact car.
He suddenly recalled a vivid dream from months ago—the night before he met Xie Shuyu again.
In the dream, he had been dressed in a dark tailored suit, stepping out of a Rolls-Royce Phantom, exuding an aura of calm confidence as he approached Xie Shuyu.
Then, as she looked up at him in surprise, he had gently lowered his head and kissed her.
At the time, it had been more of a fantasy—a way to cope with his past self-doubt.
But now?
That dream might soon become reality.
Moreover, considering his status and lifestyle, a professional driver was a necessity.
Especially when attending business meetings, where drinking was often unavoidable—it was far safer to have a dedicated chauffeur.
Looking at it from another perspective…
The entire reward package seemed tailored for his safety—from the agility and luck boosts to the Phantom and security team.
Returning to the main interface, he checked his personal stats.
[Player: Tang Song (66 Charm)]
[Role: CEO of Songmei Fashion]
[Height: 184CM | Weight: 80KG]
[Attributes:]
Physique: 71 (+1)Endurance: 75Agility: 67 (+2)Comprehension: 83Luck: (Hidden Attribute) +1[Assets:]
Cash Balance: 8.82 million yuanInvestments: 1.71 billion yuanCompanies Owned:Songmei Fashion (75%)Slover TrustHuashang Fashion (35%)Bocai Yingrui (35%)Lanfeng International (80%)Xingyun International (15% - Proxy Holding)Qingning Technology (3%)Tang Zong Entertainment (4%)[Real Estate:]
Yanjing Tiancheng (390m² luxury residence)[Vehicles:]
Rolls-Royce PhantomBentley Continental GTHis Physique had increased by 1 point, his Agility by 2, and his Charm had unknowingly reached 66.
It must have been influenced by his mindset and personal growth during this trip home.
He was now just 4 points away from his next milestone reward.
Almost there. Keep pushing forward!
Taking a deep breath, Tang Song exhaled the faint scent of alcohol lingering in his system and reached for the private room door handle.
Just as he was about to step inside—
A hesitant voice called out from the side.
"Tang… Tang Song?"
Tang Song turned his head, meeting a somewhat familiar face.
He immediately blurted out, "Zhang Lei!"
If he hadn’t just looked through his old middle school photos last night, he might not have recognized him so quickly.
He had still kept in touch with Zhang Lei during high school, but after university, they had practically lost contact.
Now, Zhang Lei had gained some weight and looked far more mature. Traces of past acne scars remained faintly visible on his face.
Judging from his slightly dazed expression, he had probably drunk quite a bit.
Compared to the once flashy, confident rich kid from their school days…
He had changed immensely.
Meanwhile, in Yan City…
In an upscale western restaurant, laughter and conversation flowed freely.
"Wow, the caviar is finally here!"
Zhao Yaqian licked her lips, watching eagerly as the server placed the dishes in front of them.
"Xiao Xue, have some too." She passed a portion to Lin Muxue.
"Thanks, babe."
A bite of delicate Matsuba crab, topped with exquisite Siberian sturgeon caviar—pure decadence.
Taking a small bite, Zhao Yaqian’s eyes curved into crescent moons. "It’s so good!"
Lin Muxue chuckled and took a bite as well.
The taste transitioned from tangy to umami, filling her mouth with a burst of rich flavors. It was, indeed, delicious.
Just then, her phone rang.
Setting down her utensils, she elegantly wiped her hands and picked up her phone.
An unknown number from out of town.
After a slight hesitation, she answered.
"Hello?" Her voice was clear, confident, and commanding—an effect of her training among Slover Trust elites.
Silence.
After a brief pause, she repeated, "Hello? May I ask who’s calling?"
Then, a dry, hesitant female voice came through.
"Xiao Xue… it’s me. How have you been?"
Hearing the familiar voice, Lin Muxue’s grip on her phone tightened, and her brows furrowed sharply.
After a moment, she steadied her emotions and replied calmly,
"Qianqian, I need to take this call. Enjoy your meal."
"Mmm, go ahead, Xiao Xue." Zhao Yaqian waved her off, happily indulging in her gourmet feast.
She even took a few pictures, preparing to share them with Tang Song.
Stepping out of the dining area, Lin Muxue pressed the phone back to her ear and asked in a neutral tone,
"What do you want?"
A few seconds of rapid breathing came from the other end before the voice responded hesitantly,
"I… Xiao Xue, I… I’m back in Yan City."
"Hah." Lin Muxue lowered her head slightly, her tone carrying an edge.
"And how is that my problem? Didn't we agree to never contact each other again?"
The voice on the other end paused for a moment, then suddenly cracked with emotion,
"I’m sorry, Xiao Xue! You were right—he really was a fraud. I was scammed…"
And then—sobs erupted from the phone.
Lin Muxue exhaled sharply, expression unchanged.
"I'm hanging up. Bye."
"Wait, wait! Please, Xiao Xue, I beg you! I feel so miserable right now.
I went to Yanjing Huating, but someone else is living there now.
Where are you? Can… can I see you?"
Her chest rose and fell sharply, but she remained silent for a few seconds before speaking in a low voice.
"Where are you?"
"I'm… I'm at the bus stop near the south gate of Yanjing Huating, across the street.
My phone battery is almost dead…"
Lin Muxue glanced at her wristwatch and murmured,
"I’ll be there in 15 minutes."
"Okay, okay! I’ll be right here waiting for you. You have to come—I… I’m sorry."
"Goodbye." Lin Muxue cut the call and turned back toward the dining table.
Seeing Zhao Yaqian still engrossed in snapping pictures of her food, she spoke apologetically,
"Qianqian, an old friend just arrived from out of town. I need to go pick her up.
Will you be okay taking a taxi home?"
Zhao Yaqian looked up immediately. "It’s fine, Xiao Xue! Don’t worry about me, go handle your stuff.
Oh, by the way, I’m finishing your caviar!" She grinned playfully.
Lin Muxue chuckled. "Go ahead. Bye, darling."
"Bye-bye! Be careful on the road!"
Lin Muxue leaned down, planting a quick kiss on Zhao Yaqian’s fair cheek before grabbing her bag and striding out.
Within moments, an ashen-gray Porsche merged into Yan City’s bustling streets, heading toward the long-distance bus terminal.
Inside the car, Lin Muxue’s lips were pursed tightly as she sighed deeply.
Xu Ning—a name that had disappeared from her life for almost a year—had suddenly returned.
Though she had played the role of a "fake socialite," she had once had real friendships.
And Xu Ning had been her closest best friend.
They met at a model casting audition.
At the time, Lin Muxue had been rushing in, inexperienced and flustered, her carefully applied makeup ruined by sweat.
Worse yet, she had left her makeup kit in her dorm, leaving her helpless.
It was Xu Ning, sitting beside her, who had offered her makeup, even patiently fixing her look.
Both of them passed the audition, securing a rare job opportunity.
But that very event had also turned into a nightmare for Lin Muxue.
The event organizer’s daughter publicly exposed her for wearing a full set of counterfeit designer clothes.
She didn’t even curse at her—just looked down on her with an icy disdain that had burned itself into her memory.
At that moment, it was Xu Ning who stood by her side, comforting her.
Their bond deepened quickly, and they soon became inseparable best friends.
After graduating from university, Lin Muxue and Xu Ning moved in together.
Under Xu Ning’s influence, Lin Muxue slowly embraced the fake socialite lifestyle.
She crafted an "influencer persona," while Xu Ning focused on live-streaming.
Eventually, they moved into Yanjing Huating, a high-end residential community.
Life was fun—barbecue, beer, cake and coffee, shopping sprees, spontaneous vacations.
But then, Xu Ning got herself a "top fan"—her so-called "rich prince."
A supposedly wealthy, handsome, and successful man.
They quickly took things offline and started dating.
However, the rich guy’s family was strict, refusing to let him date a live-streaming model.
His parents cut off his financial support immediately.
And then, Xu Ning started supporting him—spending her own money while waiting for his parents to "recognize her sincerity."
Then, she moved him into their apartment.
After a few interactions, Lin Muxue noticed something was wrong.
This "rich guy" was definitely a con artist—a PUA expert.
And worse, he even tried to hit on her.
She warned Xu Ning repeatedly, pointing out all the red flags.
But Xu Ning was too deep in denial, having invested too much into the relationship to see the truth.
Then she even borrowed money from Lin Muxue to support him.
Their fights escalated—until one day, things got physical.
Hair-pulling, slaps—the works.
That night, they cut ties completely.
Xu Ning blocked and deleted her and left Yan City, following the "rich prince" to another city.
And now?
It seemed like she had finally lost everything.
The familiar streets came into view as Lin Muxue slowed the Porsche down.
A lone figure stood by the bus stop.
Dressed in a T-shirt, shorts, and sneakers, her hair unkempt, carrying two suitcases—one of which Lin Muxue had given her long ago.
As the Porsche came to a halt, Xu Ning instinctively stepped back.
Taking a deep breath, Lin Muxue pushed open the car door.
She strode around the front of the vehicle at a measured pace, stopping right in front of her.
Seeing Lin Muxue step out of a Porsche, Xu Ning was momentarily stunned.
She hesitated for a long time, barely daring to believe it was really her.
Compared to the old Lin Muxue, the woman standing before her had changed completely.
It wasn’t just the luxury car or the fashionable clothes—Xiao Xue always rented high-end cars and saved up for designer bags.
The biggest change was her presence—her maturity, confidence, and aura.
She now radiated sophistication, like an elegant female executive, sipping coffee in a skyscraper, negotiating million-dollar deals.
"Xiao Xue…"
SMACK!
Lin Muxue shoved her hard, gritting her teeth.
"I told you before—you’re a complete idiot!
You totally deserved this!
You f*ing idiot!"