novelraw Chapter 358: Reflected Stars
Chapter 358: Reflected Stars
"Anyway... that's the situation. How things go will depend on the circumstances!"
The girl playfully stuck out her tongue and flashed her WeChat QR code.
Hearing her disjointed explanation, Tang Song couldn't help but chuckle. He picked up his phone from the table, opened WeChat, and said, "Alright, let's add each other."
Seeing the friend request pop up on her phone, the girl let out an excited "Ah!" and quickly said, "Thank you, Heartthrob! I'm a sophomore at Quancheng Academy. If you have time, feel free to hang out with me!"
After that, she winked at Zhang Yunpeng, who was standing beside her. "Hello, you're 'Yunpeng’s Got Style,' right? I'm a fan! I was just shopping nearby today—so happy to meet you!"
Having already ended his livestream, Zhang Yunpeng forced a smile. "Nice to meet you too."
A fan of his watched his livestream, yet ended up adding his old middle school classmate on WeChat instead.
What the hell was this situation?!
If she had just added him first, he might have felt a little better!
The girl looked at him with sparkling eyes and said in a sweet voice, "Yunpeng, I know you're super nice to your fans. Can I ask you for a favor?""Oh?" Zhang Yunpeng cleared his throat, straightened up, picked up his phone, and smiled. "Of course."
Alright, if she was going to ask for his WeChat now, he could accept that—after all, she was his fan.
"Awesome!" The girl quickly opened her phone’s camera and handed it to him. "Can you take a beautiful picture of us? Thank you!"
Then, she eagerly ran around the booth and stood obediently next to Tang Song.
Zhang Yunpeng looked at the phone, feeling utterly defeated.
But given his online persona, he couldn't just refuse, could he?
With a lackluster effort, he raised the phone and pointed the camera at them.
Click!
"Done."
"Thank you!" The girl, blushing, glanced at Tang Song up close before lowering her head to take back her phone.
Looking at the photo of the tall, handsome young man standing next to her, she broke into a bright smile.
She was definitely going to show off to her classmates!
As they watched the excited girl bounce away, Zhang Lei said enviously, "Tang Song, your charm is unreal. Even Yunpeng’s fan got stolen by you. No wonder you're making money through livestream e-commerce!"
Zhang Yunpeng was startled. "Huh? Tang Song, you're in livestreaming too?"
"Sort of." Tang Song took a sip of his drink and said casually, "But I don’t show my face. My company has dedicated hosts for selling products—I run an e-commerce business."
"Whoa, an e-commerce company?" Liu Shasha exclaimed in surprise. "That makes you a boss now!"
"I'm working at an e-commerce company too, but I'm not a livestreamer—I mainly handle Taobao operations."
She was currently working in a local Quancheng e-commerce company, slogging away for a little over 5,000 yuan a month.
So, she had hoped to cozy up to her old classmate Zhang Yunpeng—maybe he could help her find a better job, or at least teach her a few tricks about livestreaming and short videos. If nothing else, she could try a side hustle.
Tang Song nodded. "We mainly focus on the Douyin platform, selling women's fashion."
"Wow, women's fashion? Then we’re kind of in the same industry! My company is in apparel too. But Taobao isn’t doing so well lately—sales and profits keep dropping. Douyin e-commerce is really where the growth is..."
Seeing how enthusiastic Liu Shasha was about the topic, Zhang Yunpeng felt like he'd taken another hit.
This same female classmate had been all eager to learn livestreaming and short videos from him, but now she was switching sides too?
Come on, I'm still a well-known influencer! Why do I suddenly feel like a nobody?
"Alright, let’s toast!" Zhang Yunpeng lifted his bottle and gave it a little shake.
"Cheers!"
Zhang Yunpeng took a few gulps, then grinned. "Tang Song, what's your company’s livestream account? I’ll follow it. Not sure if Lei told you, but I’ve got over 400,000 followers on Douyin now."
Tang Song set his glass down and replied casually, "We have several accounts."
"I get it, that's how things work now. Which one's the most popular?"
"He Yiyi."
"He Yiyi?" Liu Shasha blinked. "That name sounds familiar. Have I seen her before?"
She immediately picked up her phone and started searching.
A second later, a surprised scream echoed from their booth.
Liu Shasha excitedly held up her phone. "Tang Song! You mean this He Yiyi?!"
Tang Song glanced at the screen and nodded. "Yeah, that's the one."
"Oh my god, she’s the streamer who ran into Bei Yuwei! Wow, wow, wow! I... I can't believe it!" Liu Shasha was full of admiration. "This is amazing!"
Zhang Yunpeng raised an eyebrow and searched for He Yiyi on Douyin. The moment he saw the account, his eyes flashed with shock.
Holy sh*t! Over 1.6 million followers?!
As someone in the industry, he knew exactly what this meant for a professional livestream sales account.
The value of these followers was far higher than the 450,000 he'd accumulated through short skits.
Zhang Lei, still confused, asked, "Who's Bei Yuwei? Shasha, you know Tang Song's streamer?"
"He Yiyi went viral for several days before! Our office was talking about it for ages—it was hilarious..."
Liu Shasha excitedly started explaining the whole incident between He Yiyi and Bei Yuwei, as well as some details about the livestream’s sales figures.
Zhang Lei looked at Tang Song with renewed respect.
He had assumed Tang Song was just another guy who made some money online, like Zhang Yunpeng.
But now he realized this classmate was on a whole different level.
No wonder Tang Song had changed so much—so much more confident and composed.
Money really is a man's courage!
Zhang Yunpeng kept scrolling through He Yiyi’s account, then glanced at Tang Song, his emotions turning complicated.
He had dropped out after middle school, so he remembered those days well.
After ten years, running into an old classmate, he had expected to impress them with his success, soaking up their admiration and envy.
Instead, he had been overshadowed in every way.
Plus, he and Tang Song hadn’t even been that close in school—they had even fought once.
Now, a sour feeling bubbled up inside him.
But years of struggling in society had matured him. He wouldn’t let his emotions show.
Just then—
Tap, tap, tap.
Rhythmic footsteps slowly approached.
Still lost in thought, Zhang Yunpeng instinctively turned his head.
Clang!
His beer bottle slipped from his hand and hit the table.
Fortunately, there wasn’t much left inside, so it didn’t spill.
"You okay, Yunpeng?"
"Yeah, yeah, just lost my grip."
Zhang Yunpeng straightened the bottle and looked dazedly at the stunning figure walking toward them.
As his mind raced, a soft, sultry voice rang out.
"Good evening, Senior. May I have a drink with you?"
The other three at the booth all turned their heads, their expressions changing.
Liu Shasha's eyes widened in shock as she stared at the woman.
This... wasn't she the one they saw with the Rolls-Royce Phantom earlier?!
She didn’t know if this woman owned the car, but she was definitely someone important.
Zhang Yunpeng froze completely.
What the hell?! Is there no justice in the world?!
Tang Song’s charm was ridiculous enough, but now he had even attracted her?!
Zhang Lei swallowed hard. Even as a friend, he was starting to feel jealous of Tang Song.
Unlike the bubbly young girl from earlier, this was a real beauty.
Her face was both sultry and elegant, her hair neatly tied in a low bun.
She looked about thirty, dressed in a beige dress made of soft, luxurious fabric that perfectly hugged her curves—mature yet graceful.
"So? Would you do me the honor?" Jiang Yourong smiled and winked at Tang Song. "My treat."
Tang Song chuckled and stood up. "Alright, I’ll give you that honor."
"Thanks, handsome. Let’s sit by the bar?"
"Sure." Tang Song nodded with a smile, then turned to his classmates. "I’ll be back in a bit. You guys keep drinking."
“Oh, okay.”
“Alright, alright!”
The three of them quickly nodded, their expressions filled with excitement.
Watching the two figures walk away, Zhang Yunpeng felt a pang of jealousy so sharp it made his teeth ache.
Never in his life had he been so envious of someone. This was just unfair!
"Yourong, I didn't expect to run into you here."
"To be honest, I'm even more surprised. What are you doing in Quancheng?"
"My hometown is Jing County in Quancheng. I came back mainly to spend some time with my parents."
"Oh~ so you're from the same hometown as Shuyu! I actually came to Quancheng to visit her. I just left her place."
Soon, two freshly mixed cocktails were placed in front of them.
The two of them sipped their drinks while chatting about their recent lives.
Under the dim and romantic bar lighting, the atmosphere between them grew subtly ambiguous.
Sitting on a high stool, Tang Song glanced at the elegant and voluptuous Jiang Yourong beside him.
For some reason, his mind wandered to the little "toys" he had seen on the top shelf of her cabinet before.
Noticing his gaze, Jiang Yourong shifted uncomfortably, feeling an odd sensation creeping over her.
But there was something more important at hand.
She clinked her glass against his, took a big sip of her drink, then suddenly said, "I just saw Liu Jiayi outside."
She hadn’t planned on bringing up Tang Song’s connection with Director Jin so soon.
But her unexpected encounter with Liu Jiayi had stirred up a lot of emotions.
She wanted to seize the moment—and satisfy her curiosity.
More importantly, she realized she had underestimated Tang Song’s status.
For Liu Jiayi to personally act as his chauffeur and wait outside for him… that said a lot about his importance to Director Jin.
What a mysterious man.
Tang Song’s hand paused mid-air. He slowly set his glass down, his eyes deep and sharp.
"Yourong, you do know me after all."
The first time they met, her favorability rating towards him had already been at 90.
He still remembered the pop-up notification above her head back then:
[Hint: If you invite her for an all-night talk after drinking, there is a certain success rate. She won’t be opposed to it.]
From her demeanor, it was obvious—Jiang Yourong had likely seen the "past him" before.
And he was far too curious about that past.
"Uh…" Jiang Yourong feigned nonchalance. "I wouldn’t say I know you, but I have seen you twice—from a distance."
"Where? I have no memory of it."
Jiang Yourong smiled slightly. "Someone like you… how could you possibly remember someone insignificant like me?"
Taking a deep breath, Tang Song leaned forward slightly and locked eyes with her.
"Yourong, I hope we can be honest with each other."
"Alright, then I’ll tell you a little secret."
Jiang Yourong’s eyes glimmered as she leaned in close, her lips nearly brushing his ear.
"I used to work at Smile Investments as Director Jin’s assistant. I saw you twice at his office in the Imperial Tower."
Tang Song’s gaze sharpened. He looked at Jiang Yourong in surprise.
"Assistant?"
So that’s how it was!
It made perfect sense.
His in-game achievements and assets had all translated into reality—so naturally, his presence would be felt in these industries.
If Jiang Yourong had been Secretary Jin’s assistant and hadn’t seen him before, that would have been surprising.
Guanhua Court Restaurant
In a luxurious private dining room on the second floor…
Silk-lined mural walls, intricately carved wooden screens, gleaming marble floors, and uniquely designed chandeliers…
The entire setting exuded a timeless elegance.
One side of the room featured a floor-to-ceiling window offering a stunning view of the riverbank.
On this midsummer night, distant buildings flickered in and out of the darkness.
Streetlights shimmered on the river’s surface, casting rippling reflections.
Hearing approaching footsteps, Xie Shuyu withdrew her gaze from the window and turned around.
She was dressed in a sleeveless black V-neck top, paired with an A-line skirt that accentuated her perfect proportions.
She looked poised and refined, yet effortlessly stylish.
"Sis, are you okay? You know how my mom is—sometimes she just says things without thinking. Don't take it to heart, alright?"
Her younger cousin, Xie Chunyin, walked over apologetically and gently linked arms with her.
Xie Shuyu shook her head. "It’s fine. No big deal. I just needed some air."
Xie Chunyin finally smiled. "That’s good. Don’t rush off later—I brought you a gift from America. It’s in my car’s trunk."
"Mm, let’s go back. If I stay out too long, people will think I’m throwing a fit again."
Xie Shuyu smiled and walked around the red-brown carved screen, returning to the banquet hall.
A grand round wooden table sat at the center, surrounded by ten guests—men and women, young and old.
All of them were relatives from her father’s side.
Among them was a foreign man with sharp features and curly hair.
He was well-dressed, flashing a broad smile—looking every bit the gentleman.
This was none other than Xie Chunyin’s boyfriend, Andrew Mescal.
He and Chunyin had just returned from America two days ago.
After adjusting to the time difference, his mother-in-law had brought him here tonight to meet the family.
As soon as Xie Shuyu sat down, her aunt, Zeng Yan, smiled.
"Xiaoyu, I might’ve misspoken earlier. But it’s only because I care about you—I just want you to have a comfortable life."
Xie Shuyu’s mother held her hand and said brightly, "Your father and I only hope for your safety and happiness. Everything else is up to you. If you want to find someone, great. If not, live freely."
Zeng Yan’s eyes flickered slightly, but she kept her smile.
"Our Xie family’s daughters are all outstanding. I just want the best for Xiaoyu.
Oh, by the way—your company is looking for investors, right? Andrew happens to work in an investment firm. Maybe Chunyin can introduce you two. You never know!"
Xie Chunyin tugged at her mother’s sleeve, blushing.
"Mom, Andy just started his job. He doesn’t have that kind of authority yet."
"He might not now, but who knows about the future? He’s a promising young man, working at a top international investment group. That’s no small thing!"
"Then, I appreciate the thought." Xie Shuyu smiled lightly, not taking it seriously.
She knew exactly what her aunt was trying to do.
Both she and Xie Chunyin were successful women.
But growing up, she had always outshined her cousin.
She was older, always ahead in achievements.
During family gatherings, the elders had given her larger red envelopes, praised her more, and placed her on a pedestal.
Then, she went on to start her own business, drive luxury cars, buy mansions in both Yancheng and Quancheng, and even help relatives find jobs.
She had become the "star" of the family.
At every gathering, she was the focus—her opinions mattered, and even the dishes ordered were chosen based on her taste.
Zeng Yan had never voiced any resentment, but deep down, she must have been uncomfortable for years.
Now, with Xie Chunyin returning from studying abroad, landing a prestigious job in Shanghai, and bringing home a handsome, accomplished foreign boyfriend—her aunt naturally wanted to shift the spotlight.
The underlying message was clear: "My daughter is just as outstanding. You all need to stop focusing solely on Xiaoyu."
Just then, her phone chimed.
[Jiang Yourong: "Shuyu, are you guys still eating? When do you think you’ll be done?"]
[Xie Shuyu: "Probably another half hour. You can stay at the spa a little longer."]
[Jiang Yourong: "Got it. See you soon."]
Snail Bar.
Jiang Yourong looked up seriously and said, "I've already told you everything I know. Tang Song, we’re friends—that’s why I’m being honest with you. I have no ill intentions and won’t pry into your relationship with Smile Holdings."
All she wanted was to build a closer connection with Tang Song, hoping that one day, he could help her rise again.
To return to the path she was meant to follow.
"I understand, Yourong." Tang Song let out a breath.
"Oh, there’s one more thing." Jiang Yourong’s gaze flickered. "Shuyu is currently having dinner with some friends, and they should be wrapping up in about half an hour.
Her company's recent financing attempt failed, and she’s been in a terrible mood. Since you happen to be in Quancheng, maybe you should go talk to her."
She had already asked Xie Shuyu in detail about Tang Song.
As a friend, she didn’t mind giving things a little push.
Her only concern was Tang Song’s relationship with Director Jin.
Could they be lovers? She found that unlikely.
If Tang Song truly had a girlfriend like Director Jin, would he still be wandering around Yancheng, taking side gigs for Xie Shuyu, attending startup investment conferences, and locking himself away in a faculty apartment to study?
Wouldn’t he rather be lounging in a luxury suite with his very own Wonder Woman, managing a massive conglomerate like Smile Holdings?
"Shuyu..." Tang Song nodded slightly, his expression becoming more animated.
To him, Xie Shuyu held a special significance.
After letting go of his White Moonlight and returning to Yancheng, she was the first woman he had truly liked.
Naturally, there were some lingering fantasies.
He had even dreamed of stepping out of a Rolls-Royce, presenting himself before Xie Shuyu in an entirely new light.
And now, the Rolls-Royce Phantom was here, waiting outside for him.
Maybe tonight… that dream could come true.
The thought sent a surge of excitement through him.
"Where is Shuyu having dinner?"
"Guanhua Court Restaurant. I’ll send you the location on WeChat." Jiang Yourong pulled out her phone and shared the pre-saved address with him.
"Got it. Thanks, Yourong. I’ll head over soon."
Watching Tang Song’s expression, Jiang Yourong felt a pang of jealousy.
Sure, she was a little on the curvier side, but she was still a beautiful woman!
And she wasn’t that much older than Shuyu.
Why the hell was there such a huge difference in the way he treated them?!
Maybe it was the alcohol, or perhaps it was the emotions running high tonight…
Jiang Yourong’s eyes glimmered with mischief as she suddenly chuckled.
"That didn’t sound sincere at all. When you gave me this bracelet last time, I at least gave you a hug in return."
She raised her wrist and gently shook it. Under the bar’s lighting, the bracelet shimmered.
Tang Song, amused by the mature yet dignified professor before him, let out a low chuckle.
Stepping down from the high stool, he approached her and pulled her into a gentle embrace.
A warm and subtly intoxicating fragrance enveloped him—soft skin, a hint of alcohol, and an alluring warmth that was distinctly woman.
Tang Song’s hands rested lightly on her waist.
Even through the thin fabric of her dress, he could feel her body tremble slightly under his touch.
She was a woman at the peak of ripeness.
Just as he was silently appreciating the moment, he suddenly felt a soft, damp sensation against his cheek.
Tang Song’s lips twitched.
Did she just kiss him?!
This was definitely a first.
Jiang Yourong, aren't you being a little too bold?
Tang Song hesitated for a second before lowering his hand and giving her a light pat.
Soft, plush, and incredibly satisfying to the touch.
Jiang Yourong let out a small gasp before hurriedly pulling away, her face flushed with embarrassment.
"Haha… Sorry, I think I drank too much. My head’s a little dizzy. I should head to the spa now—you go handle your business."
"Alright, Professor Jiang," Tang Song said with a playful smirk. "Let’s grab a drink again sometime."
Then, before she could react, he bent down and pressed a firm kiss to her soft, porcelain cheek.
With that, he turned and walked back to the booth.
Jiang Yourong stood frozen for a moment before licking her lips, her face burning hot.
She quickly left the bar, heart pounding.
She had no idea what came over her just now—she had just acted on impulse.
And then he had kissed her back.
But thinking about it…
Tang Song was a man on the same level as Director Jin—powerful, wealthy, and ridiculously attractive.
No matter how she looked at it, she wasn’t at a loss here.
8:00 PM
After saying goodbye to his three old classmates, Tang Song stepped out of Snail Bar.
The humid evening breeze brushed against his face, leaving him feeling refreshed.
His gaze swept across the parking area before locking onto a tall, slender figure approaching swiftly.
She stopped right in front of him.
"Tang Song, sir. I’m Liu Jiayi—it's an honor to serve you."
"Hello," Tang Song said with a nod, his eyes gleaming with appreciation as he examined his new driver and bodyguard. Check latest chapters at novel•fire.net
"Let’s go. I need a ride."
"Understood!" Liu Jiayi responded crisply and turned towards the parking lot.
Her movements were swift and sharp, the strands of hair by her forehead swaying lightly with her steps.
She had a lean, toned figure—not bulky, but agile and strong. Paired with her strikingly androgynous features, she exuded a distinct badass energy.
A woman this cool… Secretary Jin really knows my taste!
Soon, they reached the parking lot.
Tang Song’s gaze immediately zeroed in on a sleek, jet-black Rolls-Royce Phantom.
The car unlocked with a soft chime, and its lights flickered on.
Majestic, extravagant, and exuding an air of supreme luxury.
Under the dim lighting, the car’s smooth contours gleamed like a meticulously sculpted masterpiece.
The gleaming Spirit of Ecstasy emblem and the illuminated grille made it look like a sleeping king, poised to awaken.
Tang Song’s breathing quickened.
He had always been a car enthusiast.
Otherwise, he wouldn’t have spent so much money in the game buying luxury vehicles.
Now, seeing his ultra-luxury sedan appear before him in real life…
The thrill was indescribable.
Liu Jiayi stepped forward, gracefully opening the reverse-hinged door.
As the door swung open, the lavish interior was revealed—pristine leather seats, polished wooden paneling, and a sophisticated ambient lighting system.
Every detail screamed exquisite craftsmanship.
Liu Jiayi bent slightly and gestured for Tang Song to enter.
Her movements were fluid and confident, devoid of any hesitation—making the scene unexpectedly elegant.
After taking a few moments to admire his new ride, Tang Song flashed a smile at Liu Jiayi and elegantly slid into the rear seat.
He lightly pressed the automatic door-close button on the frame.
Thump.
A deep, satisfying sound echoed as the door shut with a solid click.
Liu Jiayi took her place in the driver’s seat and expertly started the engine.
Soon, the Rolls-Royce Phantom glided smoothly out of the parking lot, merging onto Quancheng’s main road.
Inside the ultra-quiet cabin…
The premium leather seats exuded a subtle sheen, the meticulous hand-stitched details flawless.
Exquisite wood, ceramic, and metal accents combined to create an atmosphere of absolute opulence.
Tang Song glanced up, admiring the starlit ceiling before reaching over to lower the rear sunshade.
As the car moved steadily through the city, Quancheng’s dazzling nightscape unfolded before him.
Leaning back against the plush seat, he felt an entirely new kind of contentment.
In his deep, dark eyes, it was as if countless stars were reflected.