novelraw Chapter 360: Overthrowing the Hierarchy
Chapter 360: Overthrowing the Hierarchy
The damp night breeze rustled through the locust trees, their leaves whispering in the darkness.
Shadows danced across the pavement under the dim glow of the streetlights, fragmented and scattered.
Under this soft, golden haze, Tang Song’s figure appeared both gentle and enigmatic.
Between him and Xie Shuyu, a subtle tension lingered in the air.
—
Xie Shuyu’s slightly pursed lips moved faintly as she spoke, her voice a little dry.
"So… what you’re saying is, you’re actually very rich, and now you want to invest in Shimmer Coffee? Is that right?"
Tang Song smiled. "Mhm. I remember you once said that you dream of turning Shimmer Coffee into a national chain—establishing different store formats, collaborating with well-known IPs, and building your own supply chain system."
"But to achieve that goal, the amount of funding and resources required is immense."
"You also said that unless Shimmer Coffee could secure backing from major capital, it would be extremely difficult to realize that vision."He released her arm and took a half-step back, his voice filled with confidence and conviction.
"And I can help you achieve that."
—
Hearing his final words, Xie Shuyu lifted her clear, intelligent eyes, her gaze complicated as she looked at him.
She was a rational and perceptive woman.
From numerous details, she could tell that Tang Song was not joking.
And after six months of interaction, if she still couldn’t see a person’s character clearly, that would be a failure on her part.
Hadn’t she chosen to bring him into Shimmer Coffee in the first place because she recognized his capabilities and integrity?
—
"To be honest…" Xie Shuyu exhaled softly. "We both know how cutthroat the coffee industry is right now. Even if you’re willing to invest so much money, there’s still a huge chance of failure."
No one understood Shimmer Coffee’s struggles better than she did.
Facing a downturn in consumer spending and the merciless expansion of major chains, breaking through would be incredibly difficult.
It could even end in complete failure.
That was the biggest reason why her fundraising efforts had stalled.
"I know." Tang Song chuckled. "But that’s fine. I’m willing to try."
"So? Will you accept my investment?"
—
"Hoo—"
Xie Shuyu’s chest rose and fell in deep thought.
A moment later, she shook her head and laughed.
"I admit it—I’m a practical, realistic person. I wouldn’t turn down an opportunity like this. Meeting you and gaining your support—it’s my luck."
She stepped forward, extending her hand toward him.
"Thank you, Tang Song."
—
She wasn’t naïve.
She understood why he wanted to invest.
It was because of her.
But—
She had no reason to refuse.
And she wouldn’t pretend to be reserved out of some fake sense of humility.
—
"Pleasure working with you, Shuyu-jie."
Tang Song reached out and took her hand—soft, slender, and cool to the touch.
In contrast, Xie Shuyu felt as though her entire right hand was enveloped in a warm, steady current.
The two stood there silently for a brief moment before, in unspoken agreement, letting go at the same time.
—
Xie Shuyu lifted her head.
"The shares from the other two investors—what valuation are you buying them at? Do you need my help?"
"No need. I’ve already spoken with them."
Tang Song’s tone was calm.
"They don’t believe in your future business plan. They’re worried Shimmer Coffee will lose money, so they set the valuation pretty low—35 million yuan, even lower than Tiancheng Capital’s offer."
Xie Shuyu sighed.
"They originally invested in Shimmer Coffee for stable returns. When they heard about my future expansion plans, they freaked out—they even sued me. But even at that valuation, they’re still making a huge profit."
Tang Song smirked. "Doesn’t matter. If they don’t believe in you, then it’s better for them to cash out and leave early. No need for future headaches."
"Thanks."
—
Excluding bank debts, Shimmer Coffee’s estimated market value should be over 40 million yuan.
Even at Tang Song’s negotiated price of 35 million, he would still need over 10 million yuan in cash upfront.
And that wasn’t even counting future rounds of financing.
For an individual, that was an immense amount of liquid capital.
It only further proved how serious Tang Song was about her.
—
As the night breeze swept past, Xie Shuyu instinctively tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, her voice softening.
The two continued their leisurely stroll along the riverbank, step by step.
—
For the first time, Xie Shuyu spoke to him as an equal, earnestly discussing Shimmer Coffee’s history and growth.
She had founded the first Shimmer Coffee shop in 2017.
Within two years, she expanded to four locations.
Later, she sold 30% of her shares, bringing in two investors:
One was the owner of a recruitment agency, helping her secure more corporate clients.
The other was an executive at a real estate firm, providing access to prime retail locations.
At the time, Shimmer Coffee’s valuation was under 20 million yuan.
Thanks to strategic supply chain partnerships and exceptional management, by 2021, they had expanded to eight locations, dominating Yan City’s major CBDs and earning a strong reputation among white-collar professionals.
—
As of today, Xie Shuyu’s total assets—including cash, real estate, and company equity—amounted to nearly 40 million yuan.
For a self-made entrepreneur at only 32, it was an incredible achievement.
Though she sometimes felt lost about the future, she never lacked courage and determination.
—
9:00 PM.
The two returned to Guanhua Court Restaurant’s entrance.
Seeing Liu Jiayi still standing vigilantly by the car, Xie Shuyu’s gaze flickered slightly—but she didn’t comment on it.
"Let’s go, Shuyu-jie. I’ll drive you home."
"Thanks."
—
A subtle fragrance filled the air, calming and refreshing.
As the heavy door of the Rolls-Royce slowly closed, Xie Shuyu leaned back into the luxurious leather seat, taking a deep breath.
She instinctively turned to the side—
And immediately locked eyes with Tang Song’s intense gaze.
His sharp, deep-set eyes were locked onto her, reflecting the passing streetlights.
Looking at her fair, radiant face, Tang Song smiled.
"Shuyu-jie, which neighborhood do you live in?"
"Yuxiu Garden, Xiangdu District."
"Got it. I’ll remember that."
—
Her expression remained calm, but her heartbeat suddenly sped up.
Soon, the car smoothly merged into the night-lit roads.
—
Twenty minutes later.
The car came to a stop outside the south gate of Yuxiu Garden.
As they walked toward Building 3, Tang Song curiously took in the surroundings.
He had researched many properties in Quancheng and Yan City when his parents were house-hunting.
Yuxiu Garden was one of Quancheng’s top luxury residential areas.
40% greenery coverage, all-villa layouts, large floor plans, a central water feature, and a private clubhouse.
Of course, it was expensive. Even the cheapest unit cost over 2 million yuan.
—
"I’m here."
Xie Shuyu pointed to Building 3, Unit 1, her expression composed.
"But… can I ask you something?"
Tang Song raised an eyebrow. "You want to know where my money comes from?"
"Mm."
—
"Ring, ring—"
Just as she was about to press further, her phone rang abruptly.
Seeing the caller ID, she picked up.
"Mom? What’s wrong?"
"...I’m already at the apartment complex. Stop overthinking things!"
She glanced at Tang Song—her face unnaturally stiff.
"...No, you’re misunderstanding!"
"...I’m hanging up. Not arguing with you!"
The humid night breeze rustled through the locust trees, their leaves whispering softly in the darkness.
Under the dim glow of the streetlights, shadows danced across the pavement, scattered and fragmented.
Tang Song stood there, his figure softened by the golden hue of the lights, carrying an air of both mystery and allure.
Between him and Xie Shuyu, an undeniable tension filled the air.
—
Tang Song’s sharp hearing picked up bits and pieces of the phone conversation.
Considering how close they were standing, it wasn’t difficult to piece together what had happened—
His hug with Xie Shuyu outside the restaurant had been witnessed by her family.
They had mistakenly assumed he was her boyfriend.
And now, they were even asking if she’d be coming home tonight.
—
Xie Shuyu tossed her phone back into her bag and took a deep breath, adjusting her emotions.
Then, she smiled and said, "It’s getting late. You should head back to Jing County. Byebye."
"Byebye."
Tang Song waved, then turned to leave—but just as he took a step forward, he suddenly stopped.
His gaze lingered on the elegant, poised woman in front of him.
—
"What is it?"
Sensing something, Xie Shuyu’s eyes flickered, her fingers subtly tightening around her bag, as if using it as a shield to conceal her unease.
—
"Shuyu-jie…"
Tang Song took a deep breath—and suddenly, he wrapped an arm around her slender waist.
—
Due to their light clothing, Tang Song could clearly feel the firmness of her figure.
Like Little Jing, this woman was the very definition of elegance and strength intertwined.
But she was taller, slimmer, and more poised—which made holding her even more electrifying.
Their faces slowly closed the distance.
—
Xie Shuyu could feel his breath against her skin—
A mix of freshness and alcohol, strangely pleasant.
For the first time, she was seeing Tang Song’s face this close.
Smooth complexion, jet-black hair, thin lips, and a sharp, high nose.
This was a man with presence.
And his intense, predatory gaze carried an undeniable masculine charm—a dominance that radiated sexuality.
—
Her body reacted instinctively.
"Thump, thump, thump—"
Her heartbeat pounded violently in her chest.
—
Somewhere deep in her genes, her body recognized—
This man would give her strong, superior offspring.
—
Scenes from their past encounters flashed through her mind.
At first, he had been nothing more than an ordinary tech guy, unremarkable in many ways.
If not for Lu Ziming’s recommendation and the fact that they were from the same hometown, she wouldn’t have invited him to join Shimmer Coffee as a part-time programmer.
Then, as he changed, she began seeing him as a talented young professional, worthy of her admiration.
She helped him expand his network, tried to pull him into her team.
Later, when she discovered his position as CTO of Jinxiu Commerce, she felt a pang of regret—she had missed the chance to recruit him.
And yes—
She had felt physical attraction to him before.
She had indulged in fleeting, reckless thoughts about him.
But she had always brushed it off—
Attributing it to hormones, to her ovulation cycle at the time.
So she had chosen to keep her distance, convincing herself it was just a temporary impulse.
—
But now—
That hug earlier.
This intimate moment now.
It all made her undeniably certain—
This attraction wasn’t bound by time or circumstance.
It was real. And it was intense.
—
A small gulp escaped her throat.
A faint blush colored her elegant face.
With her fair skin, even the slightest tinge of pink stood out.
In the dim lighting, her refined features radiated an alluring charm.
—
Breathing in the lingering warmth of her skincare products, Tang Song’s desire surged uncontrollably.
His fingers tightened around her waist.
His gaze shifted downward—
To her plump, rosy lips.
And he moved in closer.
—
Just as their lips were about to touch—
Xie Shuyu tilted her head slightly.
—
His lips landed on her jawline instead.
Soft. Smooth. Silken skin.
—
She didn’t push him away immediately.
Instead, she froze, her body rigid.
A moment later, she reached up and pressed her fingers against his lips, creating a barrier between them.
—
Her voice was slightly hoarse.
"I’m not like this because you’re investing in my company."
—
"I know."
Tang Song’s lips brushed against her fingers, his voice filled with undeniable satisfaction.
—
Unlike Wen Ruan, who had always been the gentle older sister type, Xie Shuyu had always maintained a distance.
She carried herself like a senior figure, a mentor, someone above him.
Even her nickname for him reflected that—
Before, she had always called him "Little Song."
But after this meeting, she had instinctively switched to calling him "Tang Song."
—
A shift in dynamic.
A reversal in power.
This was the true meaning of "overthrowing the hierarchy."
The feeling of conquering an untouchable woman—
It was indescribably exhilarating.
—
Feeling the warmth of his lips against her fingers, Xie Shuyu’s gaze lowered slightly.
Her voice was barely above a whisper.
"I’m heading inside now. Byebye."
—
"Byebye."
Tang Song released her waist, but before letting go completely—
He leaned in and pressed a kiss to her cheek.
—
Xie Shuyu’s eyelashes trembled.
For a second, her body froze again.
Then, without looking back, she turned stiffly and strode toward her apartment building.
Her elegant figure, the swaying strands of her long hair—
Under the night sky, she looked stunningly graceful.
—
Tang Song watched until she disappeared from sight, then turned away, humming a tune as he walked.
He wasn’t in a rush with this one.
He had all the patience in the world.
But the fact that Xie Shuyu had allowed the hug, the touch, and even the kiss—
That was proof enough of where her heart was headed.
—
Unfortunately, Wen Ruan wasn’t here tonight.
Otherwise, he might have ended up "standing up to fight" again.
Speaking of which—
Wen Ruan was flying to Shanghai first thing tomorrow.
She’d be meeting the assistant team from Tang Zong Entertainment and undergoing short-term management training.
Most likely, Su Yu would be there too.
Hopefully, they could stay civil.
Though, realistically—
Wen Ruan probably wouldn’t stand a chance against Su Yu.
She’d definitely end up being bullied.
If that happened—
Well, Tang Song would just have to take a high-speed train to Shanghai and personally "comfort" her.
Turning around, Xie Shuyu gazed at her reflection in the mirror—completely bare, exposed to herself.
Her smooth skin glowed softly under the warm lighting, a fine mist-like sheen reflecting off it.
Tall, poised, and elegantly slender—like a white poplar tree.
A narrow waist, full curves, and long, sculpted legs.
—
At 32 years old, she was no longer in her youthful prime, but she had always been meticulous about maintaining her appearance.
Strict skincare routines, diet control, sugar restrictions—she had done it all.
And it had paid off.
Her skin remained radiant, her figure unchanged.
—
She ran her fingers along her waist, then lightly traced the corner of her lips.
Her mind replayed the night’s events over and over.
For the first time, she seriously examined her own emotions.
—
She had weathered many storms in life.
She had met countless accomplished men, including celebrities and elite professionals.
Yet, she had never been attracted to those young, handsome types.
To her, career always came before love.
But with Tang Song, it felt different.
—
It was physical attraction.
It was deep admiration.
It was a mix of both—triggering something within her.
—
The man who had stepped out of that Rolls-Royce Phantom tonight—
He had completely shattered the defenses she had built around herself.
—
In other words… she had fallen for him.
—
She had always been a rational person, never one to lie to herself.
So now, she faced the question head-on—
Was Tang Song a good match for her?
The answer was yes.
—
A young, handsome billionaire.
Confident, composed, radiating dominance.
Soon to be a major investor in Shimmer Coffee.
A familiar face from her hometown, someone trustworthy.
And if she ever wanted children, he would be an ideal father.
From any perspective, he was a perfect partner.
—
The only problem?
A man like that—she would never be able to control.
On the contrary—she might end up being the one controlled.
—
Love is a game of power.
The one who loses… always has to compromise.
—
She wasn’t ready to lose.
And she definitely didn’t want to lose to other women.
—
After finishing her shower and drying her hair, Xie Shuyu leaned against the headboard, wrapped in a silk robe, and checked the time.
[22:10]
After a moment of hesitation, she opened WeChat and sent a message to Tang Song—
"Let me know when you get home."
—
"Buzzzz—"
[@Tang Song: 'Five more minutes until I get home. Thanks for checking in, Shuyu-jie. I know you've been stressed lately—get some rest and have a good dream.']
—
A soft, pleased smile formed on her lips.
Her long legs subtly brushed against each other, a wave of satisfaction washing over her. For original chapters go to NoveIꜰire.net
She typed back—
"Mhm. Goodnight."
—
[@Tang Song: 'Goodnight (#hug)']
—
Her fingers paused over the screen.
That emoji, that simple message—
It amused her.
She let out a soft laugh.
Then, absentmindedly, she rubbed her face before going back to his profile page.
She clicked on his contact name.
And changed the remark from "Xiao Song" to "Tang Song."
—
After that, she opened her Moments feed, casually scrolling through.
—
Soon, a post caught her attention.
[@Light and Shadow Media - Wen Ruan: 'Business trip to Shanghai next week. Won’t be in Yan City. For work matters, contact my assistant at 139…']
—
Xie Shuyu’s gaze flickered.
Because of Shimmer Coffee’s funding issues, their marketing strategy and ad placements had changed, and she had previously contacted Wen Ruan to revise their campaign.
—
She had always admired Wen Ruan, which was why she had entrusted her team with Shimmer Coffee’s marketing for over a year.
But when she suddenly discovered that this former planning supervisor had become the executive director and president of Light and Shadow Media—
The shock she felt was almost identical to the feeling she had when she learned about Tang Song’s rise.
—
After some thought, she left a comment below the post—
"Wishing you success."
—
Though they had occasional disagreements, their professional relationship had always been good.
Once Shimmer Coffee secured its funding and expanded operations, their collaboration with Light and Shadow Media would only deepen further.
Maintaining a good relationship was essential.
—
August 7, 2023 | Monday | Cloudy
Shanghai, Hongqiao International Airport
—
Dressed in a fitted casual outfit, with an LV Speedy 35 on her arm and a suitcase in hand, Wen Ruan walked out of the exclusive arrival terminal.
Almost instantly, she spotted her college roommate and best friend, Jiang Yiran, holding a placard with her name on it.
—
Two years had passed since they last met.
Jiang Yiran’s overall appearance had slightly declined, but her fashion sense remained as sharp as ever.
—
Back in college, Jiang Yiran had always been the most well-off among them.
A true second-generation rich girl, her parents had used their connections to pave a career path for her after she graduated with her master’s.
Now, she ran a small trade business with her husband, which had thrived due to a fortunate economic boom.
However, the business kept her extremely busy, which was why she had been the only one missing from Sun Simin’s wedding a while back (Chapter 281).
—
Among all the people Wen Ruan wanted to see in Shanghai, aside from Su Yu, Jiang Yiran was at the top of the list.
—
She came to a stop in front of Jiang Yiran, setting down her suitcase and smiling.
"What’s wrong? Don’t recognize me anymore?"
—
Jiang Yiran let out a sharp "Hiss—" as she widened her eyes.
"I mean, I saw your photos, but damn—you look incredible! Your skin is practically glowing like it did in college! No wonder Simin kept saying you’ve been ‘nourished’ by your boyfriend!"
—
"Shut up."
Wen Ruan laughed, playfully slapping her on the butt.
"Come on, let’s go. I got up at 5 AM—I’m exhausted."
—
"Haha! I saw your boyfriend’s pictures too! He’s so hot!"
Jiang Yiran grinned.
"Tell me—how is he in bed?"
—
"That’s a secret." Wen Ruan smirked.
"Besides, I’m afraid you wouldn’t be able to handle the details."
—
As they teased each other, they made their way to the parking lot.
Just then—
"Ring, ring—"
Her phone buzzed.
—
Wen Ruan pulled it from her pocket, her heart skipping a beat.
Already?!
She had just landed in Shanghai.
Not even a moment to breathe—
It couldn’t possibly be Su Yu, right?!
—
She picked up.
"Hello, Xiangwan-jie?"
—
"Wen Ruan, you’ve landed, right?"
—
"Yeah, I just met up with a friend."
—
"It’s like this—Su Yu had to fly to Shenzhen this morning for urgent matters. She won’t be back today, and you probably won’t be able to meet her until later this week."
After a slight pause, Mo Xiangwan reassured her—
"She’s not neglecting you. The matter she’s handling is just extremely important."
"I’ve already arranged your assistant team—come to the office when you’re ready."
—
"Got it. Thanks, Xiangwan-jie."
—
"Alright, I won’t disturb you any longer. Bye-bye."
—
As the call ended, Wen Ruan let out a long exhale.
—
At the same time—
She was curious.
Just what exactly had happened in Shenzhen to make Su Yu rush there so urgently?