novelraw Chapter 371: 【Character Merchandise Mystery Box】
Chapter 371: 【Character Merchandise Mystery Box】
In the luxurious private lounge, brown leather sofas were arranged in a circular fashion, surrounded by various entertainment facilities—coat storage, a KTV system, a card table, a private bathroom, a projector… On the elegant and lavish coffee table sat an assortment of cocktails, soft drinks, fruit towers, and snacks.
Lin Muxue hugged a silk velvet cushion embroidered with intricate patterns, her movements graceful and casual, clinking glasses with the others from time to time. Though she carried herself with warmth and poise, Zhang Mengmeng and Li Bing were visibly nervous, their voices noticeably lower than usual.
Both of them had been struggling in the world of freelance modeling and socialite circles. While they weren’t at the top of the hierarchy, they had sharp eyes and understood the unspoken rules of the game. They knew exactly who they couldn't afford to offend.
In reality, compared to Xu Ning, they were actually doing better. At least they had a few long-term collaborations, ensuring a stable income every month.
“We’ve pretty much told you everything we know, Muxue. If you want to dig deeper, I can ask someone from Jiaxin or Yue Shang,” Zhang Mengmeng said with a bright smile. “I have friends over there.”
Li Bing quickly chimed in, “Yeah, same here. I know a few people.”
Of course, the so-called "friends" were just men they were stringing along. With their striking looks and figures, they never lacked admirers, especially in their line of work.
“That would be great. I mainly want to know more about Wen Qiuyue.” Lin Muxue clinked glasses with them, a smile on her face.
After this conversation, she was able to piece together a more detailed portrait of Wen Qiuyue.
She had always hated her, but before, she never truly understood their differences in status. Now, she had taken the time to thoroughly analyze her.Jiaxin Textile and Apparel Group, formerly known as Yuhua Garment Factory in Yan City, was originally a state-owned enterprise. Due to poor management, it was privatized after restructuring. For original chapters go to NoveI-Fire.ɴet
Wen Zhenhua, the chairman, was a true business powerhouse. Over thirty years, he had transformed a single garment factory into a comprehensive fashion group, specializing in woven and knitwear that catered to both domestic and international markets. Jiaxin’s products were considered top-tier in Yan Province and were designated as key protected brands.
Wen Qiuyue was born into wealth, pampered from childhood with a notoriously bad temper. But she also had an ambition to prove herself as a strong, independent businesswoman. After receiving a polished international education, she returned and took up a managerial position at Jiaxin.
Lin Muxue first encountered her during an event, right when Wen Qiuyue had just taken office.
At that time, she was full of youthful arrogance and ambition, eager to establish her authority.
To her, a mere college student wearing knockoff designer brands and working part-time as a model was nothing more than an easy target to make an example of.
To Wen Qiuyue, Lin Muxue was just an insignificant pebble she could crush at will.
But for Lin Muxue, being stepped on that day became a lasting psychological scar.
After working at Jiaxin for over a year, Wen Qiuyue ventured into entrepreneurship.
With Jiaxin Group as her foundation, success was almost guaranteed.
Her brand, Yue Shang Fashion, was primarily a marketing company, outsourcing its design and production to Jiaxin.
Overall, Wen Qiuyue had plenty of reasons to be proud.
If it had been the old Lin Muxue, she wouldn’t have even had the right to think about competing with her.
But now, things are different.
She had achieved the peak of the Sacred Body, stepping into the realm of Emperors. She was fully qualified to go head-to-head with her.
Taking a deep breath, Lin Muxue said calmly, “Tonight’s bill is on me. Let’s enjoy ourselves, and later, I’ll take you all for a spa treatment.”
“Thank you, Muxue!”
“Thanks so much!”
Zhang Mengmeng couldn’t hold back her curiosity and asked in a hushed voice, “Muxue, I noticed the staff here calling you ‘President Lin.’ Are you in charge of Lanfeng International Hotel?”
Xu Ning, who had been silent the whole time, suddenly sat up straight, looking at her former best friend.
She had been skeptical when Xiaoxue first told her, but now, the reality was right before her eyes.
Judging by her status at Lanfeng International, she had to be at least an executive-level figure.
Xu Ning probably knew Lin Muxue better than anyone else here.
She had even visited her hometown in Shaanxi.
A true grassroots background.
Her parents were farmers who occasionally took on odd jobs nearby. They couldn’t provide her with any financial support.
She had an unremarkable associate degree, mainly studying etiquette and airline service.
Her best subject was English, but even that was just passable.
She started as a print model in Tianjin, and a year ago, when they parted ways, she had just landed a receptionist job at a finance company, trying to build a social media persona as an influencer.
Yet, in just one year, she had transformed into a legitimate finance professional, possessing wealth and privileges that Xu Ning wouldn’t have dared to dream of.
With a light clink, Lin Muxue casually set down her wine glass and said in an effortless tone, “Sort of. I’m currently an assistant to the Slover Trust Committee. The owner of Lanfeng International Hotel is also a member of our committee, so as an assistant, I occasionally help manage some hotel affairs.”
Xu Ning blinked blankly. “Slover? What does that mean?”
“It’s a financial trust company based in Hong Kong, mainly focused on investments.”
Zhang Mengmeng and Li Bing smacked their lips, full of admiration and flattery.
“Wow, that sounds impressive! Muxue, you’re incredible! Not only are you working at a finance company, but you’re also managing Lanfeng International Hotel!”
They hadn’t had much formal education, so all these companies and committees were too complex to understand.
But one thing was clear—Lin Muxue had truly made it.
Lanfeng International was one of the most prestigious hotels in Yan City, a must-visit for socialites.
They used to scrape together money just to take photos in its glamorous surroundings.
Being a senior executive in a place like this? That was a level they could never hope to reach.
Xu Ning swallowed hard, feeling her throat go dry and her heartbeat quicken.
She instinctively grabbed a cocktail and downed it, letting the icy alcohol bring her back to her senses.
As the one who had led Xiaoxue into the fake socialite scene, she had always been vain and materialistic.
Her desperation for wealth had driven her to chase after a rich second-generation heir, only to be manipulated by her ex-boyfriend.
But now, her old friend had made it big, and she saw hope for herself again.
Lin Muxue could feel the complex emotions radiating from the three women, and she couldn’t help but smile. She had never felt more satisfied.
Right now, she had the exhilarating feeling of a max-level player returning to a beginner’s village.
To be honest, with her current power and connections, making money was the least of her worries.
If she wanted to play dirty, she could introduce Zhang Xi’s family liquor business to Lanfeng International, securing hefty commissions and rebates.
If she wanted to go even further, she could plant her own people in the procurement department to monopolize certain supply channels.
But those were just fleeting thoughts.
Everything she had now came from Tang Song’s trust. If she ever betrayed that, the consequences would be unimaginable.
For now, she just needed to focus on solidifying her position in his eyes, securing the beautiful future she dreamed of.
Besides, she was genuinely captivated by him.
That’s why she had risked her carefully crafted image to play basketball with Qianqian by his side.
When it came to Tang Song, she didn’t have a single disloyal thought.
But she still had legitimate ways to make money—like the short drama market.
A plan began forming in her mind, and her eyes gleamed with anticipation.
"I heard the PR department at Lanfeng International Hotel has amazing perks. You just eat, drink, and wander around all day, and you can still earn over 10,000 yuan a month."
"With your connection to Muxue, you might even work your way up to a leadership position someday."
Listening to their excited chatter, Xu Ning licked her lips, trying to suppress the surge of emotion within her. Her eyes were filled with longing.
Seeing Xiaoxue so successful now, how could she not feel envious?
Given the choice, who wouldn’t want to live like her?
—
10:00 PM
Under the enthusiastic farewell of the welcoming staff, the two women stepped out of the hotel entrance.
The neon lights of the city instantly enveloped them.
Looking at Xiaoxue’s stunning profile beside her, Xu Ning coughed lightly and hesitated before asking, “Xiaoxue, that Porsche 911 of yours… it’s really yours, isn’t it?”
“I believe I told you that from the start.”
“Uh…” Xu Ning felt a little awkward. “I didn’t quite understand the situation back then. I mean, it’s a Porsche 911! We used to not even dare to rent one.”
“That was then.”
“Right, right…” Xu Ning lowered her voice. “Well… I really do want to settle down now. I just want a stable job, make money, and pay off my debts.”
“Alright.” Lin Muxue stopped walking and turned to look at her. “Since you brought it up, I’ll tell you my plan for you. Whether you want to do it or not is up to you.”
Xu Ning immediately straightened up. “Tell me, I’m listening.”
“Do you know about micro-dramas?”
“Of course! I’ve seen tons of them trending online lately.”
Lin Muxue nodded. “I’m planning to start a talent agency. We’ll sign models and small influencers and get them into micro-drama productions. Setting up the company is easy—we’ll just use an intermediary firm. You’ll be the legal representative, and I’ll guide you through the steps…”
As Xiaoxue laid out her plan in a clear and organized manner, Xu Ning’s expression went through a series of complex changes.
Wasn’t this just a modeling agency under a different name?
The biggest problem was—could they even pull it off?
Running this kind of company required two things: connections and business opportunities.
Even though her mind was filled with doubts, Xu Ning didn’t dare to voice them.
The Xiaoxue standing before her now was already far beyond her level.
If she was doing it, then Xu Ning would just follow her lead.
After all, she had nothing to lose. She was already drowning in debt—what else could go wrong?
The night breeze played with their hair. Lin Muxue looked up at the towering city buildings, her eyes gleaming with ambition.
Her English was now fluent, but the finance industry was still too difficult for her.
If she wanted to climb even higher, she had to leverage the resources she already had.
If this worked out, she could secretly show off to Tang Song and Qianqian later, restoring her elite, high-achiever image.
Lately, she had spent way too much time wrapped up in his arms while he playfully traced imaginary maps on her body. If this continued, her whole persona would shift towards being a comedic meme instead.
But she, Lin Muxue, lived for appearances!
—
August 11, 2023, Friday, Overcast, 26–32°C
Zhuxi Residential Complex
6:30 AM
The morning light filtered through the clean, bright windows.
Dressed in a camisole, Gao Mengting curled up on a lazy sofa, her fair, delicate feet resting on a footstool, gently swaying from time to time.
She held a book titled Intimate Relationships, occasionally deep in thought, sometimes blushing, and at other times, softly chuckling.
It was a psychology-based analysis of intimate relationships, covering topics like attraction, types of love, and sex.
Lately, it had become her favorite book.
It provided a rational perspective on love, which had given Mengting a lot of insight.
She started to understand her own behavioral patterns and emotional needs when dealing with Tang Song.
More importantly, she was consciously learning how to build a healthy, lasting relationship.
Outside, the sky gradually brightened.
Stretching out her long, smooth legs, Gao Mengting did a perfect kip-up from the couch and casually placed the book back on the shelf.
After having breakfast with her junior, she washed up carefully and returned to her bedroom.
She pulled back the curtains, sat at her dressing table, and began applying makeup and styling her hair.
The hit historical drama Listening to the Rain in Leisure
had finally ended, and the viral traffic boost from Bei Yuwei was also fading.After a month of non-stop work, her job was finally stabilizing.
She could finally enjoy a proper weekend off.
She planned to visit home, spend time with her parents, and reassure them about her career in Yan City.
Back when Meiting Discount Fashion Store failed, she had promised to return home for good.
Her parents had been thrilled about it.
But when they later found out she stayed to start a new business, they were so furious they nearly ended up in the hospital.
Even now, their relationship hadn’t fully recovered.
After finishing her makeup, she changed into a stylish office outfit.
Standing in front of the mirror, she admired herself for a while before grabbing her bag and heading out.
As her Wuling Hongguang slowly pulled out, the soft melody of a pop song played in the car.
The sky outside was a muted grayish-white.
It was an overcast day, and judging by the weather, it would probably rain heavily soon.
But that didn’t dampen her mood one bit.
—
20 Minutes Later
The Wuling Hongguang smoothly pulled into the underground parking lot of Yunxi Tower.
After locking the car, Gao Mengting stepped into the elevator, naturally moving to the corner.
Songmei Fashion was located on the 30th floor, part of the top-tier office spaces, meaning she was always the last to get off the elevator.
Ding—
The elevator stopped at the first floor.
More people filed in one after another.
Gao Mengting lowered her head, absorbed in reading the news on her phone.
Soon, she noticed the overhead lights dim slightly.
A tall figure had stepped in front of her—very close.
Her brows furrowed slightly in reflex, but then a familiar scent filled the air.
She lifted her head in surprise—and locked eyes with a pair of deep, captivating eyes.
A handsome, well-defined face was right in front of her.
His chiseled jawline formed a perfect arc, making her heart race uncontrollably.
Gao Mengting’s lips curled into a smile, and her eyes twinkled as she greeted, “Good morning, President Tang.”
“Morning, Mengting.” Tang Song smiled and handed her a cup of coffee. “I picked one up for you—just happened to run into you here.”
“Thanks! I won’t be polite then.” Gao Mengting tucked away her phone and took the coffee.
The elevator doors slowly closed and continued upward.
With so many people around, they maintained their silence, but their eyes continued to meet.
Feeling Tang Song’s warm gaze, a faint blush crept onto Gao Mengting’s cheeks.
She recalled a quote from The Hours:
“Our eyes meet fondly—it is a spiritual kiss of humanity without sexual desire.”
Back when she first read it, it hadn’t really resonated with her.
But right now—she could feel it.
Although she had never kissed a man before, she couldn’t help but wonder what it would be like.
Her gaze lingered on Tang Song’s lips and high-bridged nose, her throat moving involuntarily as her thoughts started to spiral.
Watching his suddenly shy business partner, Tang Song’s lips curved into an amused smile.
Tang Song suddenly realized something—at some point, Gao Mengting had started getting shy and avoiding his gaze whenever their eyes met.
Interesting.
He clearly remembered that when they first met, he was always the one who looked away first.
Taking a deep breath, he could distinctly catch the lingering scent of her fragrant body wash mixed with her shampoo.
It smelled really good.
—
Ding—
The elevator doors slowly opened.
The two of them stepped out one after the other, walking side by side toward the office.
"President Tang, President Gao! Good morning!"
"Morning."
"Good morning!"
Along the way, their energetic colleagues stood up and greeted them proactively.
Reaching the private office area, Tang Song lightly patted Gao Mengting’s shoulder and gestured with his coffee toward his office.
“Come by later. Let’s chat.”
“Mm.”
—
Inside the CEO’s Office
The bright, spacious office was spotless and well-organized, with lush green plants adding vibrancy to the space.
Tang Song casually booted up his computer and sat down on the sofa, taking small sips of his coffee.
Now that He Liting had become a major internet celebrity, she naturally didn’t have time to grind fresh coffee for him anymore.
And he was too lazy to do it himself, so he just bought some instead.
—
Knock, knock.
The door opened, and Gao Mengting walked in.
White silk blouse + pencil skirt + black stockings + low-heeled leather shoes.
Standing in the brightly lit office, she looked elegant and poised, exuding a captivating presence.
Tang Song set down his coffee and stood up, flashing a bright, confident smile.
As their eyes met, a faint blush crept onto Gao Mengting’s face.
The soft, muted tones of her makeup made her delicate features even more refined.
After a brief moment of silence, she naturally took a seat while they began discussing work and analytics as usual.
—
After an intense and thrilling period of rapid growth, Songmei Fashion’s livestreaming data had finally stabilized.
He Yiyi’s single-session live streams were now consistently bringing in around 500,000 yuan.
Of course, there was a limit to consumer demand, so their live-streaming schedule had been adjusted to once every three days.
This outcome was within Tang Song’s expectations.
During the "Scholar's Badge" phase, he had already laid out a comprehensive development plan.
Besides the @He Yiyi main account, he had also registered and launched related accounts like He Yiyi Lifestyle and He Yiyi Beauty.
The goal was to create a livestreaming matrix—expanding coverage and maximizing influence through multiple accounts.
If they could train the audience to develop a shopping habit, then in the future, even He Yiyi’s assistants or deputy anchors could host the streams on her behalf.
Moreover, the “people-goods-setting” model that had been proven successful in one livestream could be directly replicated across the entire matrix of accounts.
It was a scalable strategy that ensured long-term growth.
—
After discussing for a while, Gao Mengting stretched her arms above her head, then casually wandered around the office.
Leaning against his desk, her perky hips resting lightly against the edge, she flipped through a casual book on his desk.
Then, turning around, she softly suggested, “President Tang, the whole company has been working so hard lately. Should we organize a team-building retreat to unwind?”
—
Looking at his business partner at this moment, Tang Song felt momentarily dazed.
Like Secretary Jin, Gao Mengting had a soft, delicate beauty.
Her straight yet gently shaped nose, slightly narrow nose wings, and full, round lips all came together in a way that fit the classic Eastern aesthetic.
Her outfit, hairstyle, and the setting today made him see a bit of Secretary Jin’s shadow in her.
Now that his 2016 memories were fully intact, it was as if a familiar scene from the past had overlapped with the present.
The déjà vu was intensely strong.
Pressing his lips together, Tang Song spoke softly.
“Everyone’s been pushing hard lately. A retreat is a good idea.”
His gaze softened as he added, “And Mengting, thank you for all your contributions to the company.”
—
Just as Gao Mengting was about to reply, Tang Song suddenly stepped closer to her.
“You’ve worked hard, partner.”
His presence was intense and overwhelming.
Gao Mengting’s eyelashes trembled slightly.
With their bodies in close contact, she could clearly feel his toned physique and well-defined muscles.
It was summer, and the warmth of his body made her gradually soften.
Her eyes became slightly hazy.
—
Emotional connection was a kind of intimate bond, one that could stir up excitement and joy.
It brought a deep sense of being understood and accepted.
At this moment, it felt like their souls were tightly intertwined.
She actually really liked this feeling.
—
Savoring the subtle rise and fall of her breathing and the faint fragrance on her skin, Tang Song smiled in satisfaction.
Just then—
Ding!
A system screen suddenly flashed before his eyes, and rows of text appeared:
—
【August 11, 2023】
【After long-term efforts, you have selected a loyal and reliable anchor—He Liting. You have successfully built a personal brand image for "He Yiyi," one that holds influence, credibility, and immense audience appeal.】
【With the combined efforts of you and your team, Songmei Fashion has achieved a critical breakthrough, significantly enhancing its market competitiveness and brand recognition. This has strengthened consumer trust and loyalty.】
【You have completed Growth Plan Task ②: "Building an IP."】
【You have unlocked the achievement: "Rising Fame."】
【You have obtained a special item: "Character Merchandise Mystery Box."】
—
[Character Merchandise Mystery Box]: Upon use, you will receive a random merchandise mystery box based on a random game character. The mystery box will exist in the real world and must be opened by the player.