novelraw Chapter 413: Charm 70, A Hundred-Billion Private Equity Fund
Chapter 413: Charm 70, A Hundred-Billion Private Equity Fund
6:00 PM.
"Goodbye! Have a great night!"
"Bye!" "See ya."
After saying goodbye to her colleagues, Lin Muxue grabbed her bag and hummed a tune as she walked briskly downstairs.
Her Prada leather heels clicked against the floor with a sharp “tap, tap”.
Arriving at the parking garage, she admired her sleek, luxurious Porsche 911, unable to resist running her fingers along the side mirror.
She opened the door and slid into the driver’s seat.
After a moment’s thought, she pulled out her phone and snapped a few stunning selfies.
Then, without hesitation, she posted them to her Moments, visible to everyone.
Caption:"Live in a state that you like."
Smiling, she set her phone on the dashboard mount and started the car.
The matte gray Porsche 911 rolled out of the underground garage, its pristine glass windows reflecting the breathtaking sunset.
Merging into the busy evening traffic, the city’s neon lights flickered to life.
The weather was perfect—cool and refreshing.
Lin Muxue lowered her window slightly, leaned back into her seat, and drove one-handed, feeling completely at ease.
The orange sunlight danced across her car’s elegant gray finish, giving it a delicate sheen.
The evening breeze lifted her silky hair, adding a gentle touch to her sharp aura.
During rush hour, traffic was a crawl—stop-and-go.
Every now and then, cars slowed beside her, snapping photos of the stylish beauty in the Porsche.
Some were even bold enough to roll down their windows and wave their phones at her, asking for WeChat.
Lin Muxue ignored them all, her lips curled in a faint smile as she continued listening to music, focused on driving.
At this moment, nothing could ruin her good mood.
Her mind was filled with just one thing—
Tang Song’s "Love you too."
This wasn’t just pillow talk in the heat of the moment.
It was a genuine, real confession.
Whether it was half-true or fully sincere, she chose to believe it.
With time and experience, people grow and change.
If before, her biggest dream was to secure a high-value trust fund,
Then now, what she wanted most was Tang Song’s approval and affection.
—
Lanfeng International Luxury Apartments, Unit 2002
"Click—"
Lin Muxue walked in, a designer bag over her shoulder and a carefully packed meal in hand.
"Xu Ning! Come eat!" she called out.
She kicked off her heels at the entryway, then paused in front of the mirror, striking a few model poses.
Admiring her own gorgeous reflection, she let out a satisfied sigh.
She rarely wore full business suits before—her aura couldn’t quite carry them off.
But now?
She looked absolutely stunning.
Not quite a cold, domineering CEO, but definitely a high-class urban beauty.
"Xiaoxue, you’re back!"
Xu Ning rushed out of her room, beaming as she took the meal from her hands.
"You brought food today? Is this from your company’s catering?"
"Yeah, Cantonese-style roast meats—it’s delicious."
"Thank you, Xiaoxue! Go sit down and relax, I’ll set everything up."
Xu Ning carried the heavy thermal bag to the dining table and began unpacking the food.
Lin Muxue unbuttoned her blazer, washed her hands, and leaned back in her chair.
Soon, the table was filled with exquisite takeout boxes, and the rich aroma of succulent roasted meats filled the air.
Taking her first bite, Lin Muxue closed her eyes in bliss, savoring the flavor.
Only when you almost lose something do you realize how precious it is.
Now, she wished she could eat meals like this three times a day.
Xu Ning snapped a few pictures for her social media before picking up her chopsticks.
As they ate, she glanced at Lin Muxue curiously.
"Xiaoxue, you seem to be in a really good mood today. Something good happened?"
Lin Muxue couldn’t hold back a smile. "Mmm, something like that."
Seeing that she wasn’t going to elaborate, Xu Ning didn’t press further.
Instead, she asked eagerly, "Oh, right, Xiaoxue! When is our company going to start getting work? Zhang Mengmeng and Li Bing have been asking me about it."
Ever since registering their company, Lin Muxue had been recruiting actors from her connections—friends, models, socialites, and freelancers.
Now, their WeChat group already had 120 members, all looking for acting gigs in the short drama industry.
Most of them were struggling financially, many even buried in debt.
A stable job in acting—especially with an agency backing them—was a dream come true.
Since Xue Tang Culture wasn’t providing training or promotions, their only profit came from a 20% commission on job placements.
Lin Muxue crossed her legs, took a sip of fruit juice, and said,
"By next week, things should start moving. Focus on recruiting people with extra experience in background acting."
Xu Ning’s eyes sparkled.
"Really?! That’s amazing! Xiaoxue, you’re incredible!"
She was deep in debt and desperate to start making money.
Lin Muxue smirked and wiggled her foot proudly.
—
Then, Xu Ning lowered her voice.
"Xiaoxue… some people in the group don’t believe we can actually land gigs. Could you… maybe tell me what connections you have? So I can shut them up?"
Lin Muxue raised an eyebrow and straightened up, speaking with casual confidence.
"Yan City’s only short drama film base? My boss just bought it."
"He’s about to become the absolute owner. Do you think I have the connections?"
She couldn’t resist glancing at Xu Ning, her expression filled with pride and satisfaction.
"Clatter—"
Xu Ning’s chopsticks fell onto the table.
She swallowed hard, her voice shaking.
"Your committee chairman just bought an entire film base?! My god, how much did that cost?!"
"Mm, just a little over 100 million. For him, it’s nothing."
Lin Muxue crossed her long legs, her eyes shimmering.
"As his assistant, I’ll probably help manage the company in the future too."
"That’s insane!" Xu Ning forgot all about her food, her body trembling with excitement.
"Xiaoxue, you’re incredible! With connections like this, we’re going to make so much money!"
Lin Muxue chuckled smugly.
"That’s why you just need to focus on your work."
"Of course! I got it!"
—
After dinner, they sat on the couch, watching a popular reality dating show.
Xu Ning glanced at Lin Muxue, then hesitated before asking,
"Xiaoxue… earlier, when you told Jiaojiao that you were going to Yannan Film Base with your boyfriend, were you talking about… this chairman?"
Lin Muxue’s hand froze mid-motion, and she turned to Xu Ning with a sharp gaze. Chapters first released on NoveIꜰire.net
"Uh… I was wrong! I was wrong!"
Xu Ning immediately apologized.
"I’m sorry! I just wanted to show concern!"
After hitting rock bottom in her own life, she had finally realized who her real friends were.
She genuinely wanted to care for Lin Muxue.
She had seen so many girls in the industry fall from grace.
And she had almost been one of them herself.
Lin Muxue patted Xu Ning’s shoulder and suddenly said, "That’s right, it’s him. Honestly, there’s no need to keep it a secret from you. You’ll probably meet him once the film base opens anyway.
He’s the boss of the financial firm I work at. Everything I have now is because of him.
My job, my Porsche 911, my luxury items…"
Her voice was calm and steady, even carrying a trace of happiness and contentment.
Hearing that, Xu Ning finally let out a breath of relief and whispered, "So… what’s your relationship now?"
Lin Muxue was silent for a moment. Then, she simply said, "That doesn’t matter."
"I understand." Xu Ning pursed her lips. "Xiaoxue, you were right to start your own company. At least it gives you a backup plan."
"You’re overthinking it. I started the company just to make money."
"Alright…"
Looking at her former best friend, Lin Muxue lightly bit her lip, then suddenly beamed with joy.
"He told me today that he loves me."
"Uh…" Xu Ning was momentarily stunned, unable to process what she just heard.
"It’s nothing." Lin Muxue stood up. "I’m going to the bathroom."
She turned and walked away, her steps light and carefree.
She was just too happy—so happy that she felt overwhelmed and had no one else to tell.
So she had chosen to share it with Xu Ning.
Watching her retreating figure, Xu Ning felt a pang of heartache.
Xiaoxue was the most beautiful of all her friends.
Many men had tried to "support" her before, but she had rejected them all.
Because of the humiliation she once suffered, she was both insecure and fiercely proud.
But in the end, she had still ended up walking this path.
Even though Xiaoxue never really talked about what kind of man this boss was,
Xu Ning had already formed a mental image based on all the little details.
A family trust owner, drives a Rolls-Royce Phantom, owns Lanfeng International Hotel, and now he’s buying a film base.
Rarely has time for Xiaoxue—only sends expensive gifts on special occasions like Qixi Festival.
In her imagination, the guy was probably a successful older businessman—maybe around 60 years old, likely already married.
Probably a little overweight, maybe balding, but with an intimidating presence that made Xiaoxue submit to him completely.
Just because of a simple "I love you," Xiaoxue had been overjoyed all day.
As Xu Ning’s mind raced, a beeping sound suddenly came from the front door—
"Di-li-li—"
The smart lock was being unlocked.
The door slowly opened.
A figure stepped inside.
A tall young man.
The sudden intrusion startled Xu Ning—she shot up from the couch, grabbing the nearest fruit plate as a weapon, and anxiously glared toward the entrance.
She shouted, "Who’s there?!"
The man lifted his head and looked at her.
Xu Ning’s expression froze—her eyes widened in shock.
What the hell—such a handsome guy?!
He looked about 25 or 26, with perfect teeth, a strong jawline, and a tall, well-proportioned frame.
Dressed in a casual suit, he exuded an air of elegance and sophistication—absurdly good-looking.
Even more attractive than all the male contestants on the dating show they had just watched—combined!
Like a movie star.
Her sharp instincts immediately caught onto the fact that his suit was custom-made—high-end designer.
Instantly, her anxiety faded.
Someone who looked this good and dressed like this couldn’t possibly be a burglar.
Their eyes met.
The man smiled warmly, his bright and dazzling expression making her feel dizzy.
"You must be Xiaoxue’s friend? Sorry, I didn’t tell her I was coming—I wanted to surprise her."
His voice was clear and magnetic—both gentle and captivating.
Xu Ning’s face flushed slightly. "I’m Xiaoxue’s friend. She’s in the bathroom right now. Um… you are?"
She pointed toward the door, still confused.
Lanfeng International was the most high-end residential complex in Yan City—security was extremely tight.
There was no way someone could just walk in uninvited.
The man blinked and said softly, "Me? I’m her boyfriend. Tang Song."
…
What?! Boyfriend?!
What the hell—where did this guy come from?!
Xu Ning stood frozen, her mind in complete chaos.
"I’m Xu Ning," she finally responded stiffly. "I’m temporarily staying with Xiaoxue."
Tang Song raised an eyebrow. "Nice to meet you, Xu Ning. She’s never mentioned you before."
"I only just returned to Yan City recently," Xu Ning replied before quickly adding, "Go ahead and sit down. Xiaoxue should be out soon."
"Alright."
Tang Song nodded slightly and casually took a seat in the office chair, picking up one of Lin Muxue’s books and flipping through it.
Standing nearby, Xu Ning took a deep breath and secretly observed him.
She had never imagined Xiaoxue had a boyfriend like this.
Could it be that… she was hiding him from her actual "boss"?
If the old man found out, she’d be in serious trouble!
Just as her mind was spinning with panic,
The bathroom door opened.
Lin Muxue gracefully stepped out, only to find Xu Ning staring at her strangely.
She frowned. "Why are you looking at me like that?"
"Um…" Xu Ning pointed toward the work area.
Lin Muxue followed her gaze—and froze on the spot.
Her expression completely stiffened.
"Tang Song?! Why are you here?!"
Tang Song closed the book, stood up, and looked at her with a playful smile.
"Why? Not happy to see me?"
"No! Not at all!"
Lin Muxue’s breath hitched, her chest rising and falling beneath her fitted top, a faint mist forming in her eyes.
She quickly rushed over, standing face to face with him.
She looked up into his deep, mesmerizing gaze.
"I’m just… so surprised."
Tang Song gently cupped her chin, then lowered his head and kissed her.
Lin Muxue’s eyes glazed over, her legs rubbing together instinctively.
Ever since she had heard his "I love you" that afternoon, she had been on edge the entire day.
Now, with him standing here in front of her, she had no resistance left.
From the side, Xu Ning was completely dumbfounded.
She didn’t even know what to say.
The chemistry between them was intense, the tension almost tangible.
A moment later, as they slowly pulled apart,
Xu Ning hesitantly asked, "Xiaoxue, who is he? You never mentioned him before."
Lin Muxue glanced at Tang Song, her lips curling into a smirk.
"Weren’t we just talking about him earlier?"
Xu Ning froze—her eyes gradually widening in disbelief.
Her gaze darted between Tang Song and Lin Muxue, her face looking as if she had just seen a ghost.
You’re kidding, right?
This… this is Xiaoxue’s "boss"?!
A family trust owner, a Rolls-Royce Phantom driver, the owner of Lanfeng International Hotel, the soon-to-be owner of Yannan Film Base…
A string of powerful titles flashed through her mind.
She turned to look at Tang Song, his tall, refined, godlike appearance making her whole body tremble.
Xiaoxue wasn’t suffering at all—
She had climbed Mount Everest!
If a guy like this took a liking to her, she’d gladly live in a mansion and drive a luxury car every single day!
Tang Song touched his face. "Is there something on my face?"
Xu Ning blinked. "No, I just… I just spaced out for a second."
Lin Muxue pursed her lips and asked, "Are you busy tonight?"
Tang Song’s lips curved upward as his fingers lightly traced Lin Muxue’s slender waist. His voice was warm and teasing.
"I’ve been practicing swimming lately. How about keeping me company at Lanfeng International’s pool tonight?"
He wasn’t lying—he had indeed been exploring new hobbies lately.
Photography, swimming… he dabbled in them occasionally.
"Yes!" Lin Muxue’s red lips parted slightly, and in an instant, her thoughts turned indecent.
He didn’t mention Qianqian, which meant tonight, she might have to face him alone.
For her, this was going to be a huge test—one she was certain she couldn’t withstand.
It also meant she could mark territory however she pleased.
Just the thought of it was already driving her crazy.
"Are we leaving now? Let me go freshen up."
"No rush. Let’s watch some variety shows first." Tang Song gestured toward the TV in the living room.
Every time he met up with Xiaoxue, things always escalated too quickly.
Maybe it was time to cultivate a deeper connection first—especially since his system mission encouraged it.
"Alright! I’ll go get you a fruit platter. What do you want to drink? Have you had dinner?"
"I ate already. Just get me a Coke."
"Wait for me!" Lin Muxue called out as she dashed into the kitchen.
Tang Song smiled at Xu Ning and took a seat on the sofa.
Before long, a beautifully arranged platter of fresh, colorful fruit was placed on the coffee table.
Tang Song glanced at Xiaoxue standing nearby and beckoned her over with a wave of his hand.
Her cheeks flushed slightly, but she obediently sat on his lap, her long legs dangling gracefully to one side.
Then, she shot a meaningful look at Xu Ning.
Xu Ning immediately took the hint and hurried into her bedroom.
Tang Song’s arms encircled her waist, breathing in the light fragrance of her body as he adjusted himself comfortably.
The evening breeze rustled the white curtains, bringing in a cool and refreshing air.
The occasional laughter from the TV echoed in the background.
Lin Muxue’s body softened gradually in his embrace.
—
9:00 PM – Neon Lights Illuminate Yan City
The two of them walked to Lanfeng International Hotel, taking a private elevator to the 30th floor.
This level was exclusive—aside from the presidential suites, it housed a heated swimming pool and a luxury fitness center.
Usually, it was reserved for executive suite guests,
But tonight, they had the entire top floor to themselves.
The pool water was crystal clear, perfectly heated.
By the time Tang Song walked out of the suite holding two glasses of champagne,
Xiaoxue was already standing in the pool.
The glistening water rippled around her, wrapping her in sparkling waves.
Dressed in a revealing swimsuit, she looked tall, strikingly beautiful, and irresistibly seductive.
Noticing Tang Song’s heated gaze,
Xiaoxue scooped up a handful of water and splashed it at him playfully.
In the next moment, she was swept into his arms.
"Mmm~"
A soft moan slipped from her lips as his warm mouth claimed hers,
A delicate, dusky pink pout, now completely engulfed by his kiss.
Their breaths mingled—warmth and moisture, silkiness and longing.
Outside the floor-to-ceiling windows,
The dazzling nightscape of the city stretched endlessly beneath them.
Inside the private rooftop pool,
Xiaoxue’s flawless skin glowed under the ambient LED lighting.
In the champagne glass, bubbles danced and fizzed—celebratory, electric.
The water churned violently, reflecting a mesmerizing, dreamlike glow.
And it was worth noting—
Xiaoxue left a spectacularly detailed world map in the pool tonight.
—
August 30, 2023 – Wednesday – Cloudy, 19~30°C
11:00 AM – Handing Tower
The atmosphere inside the high-rise conference room was solemn and intense.
A polished mahogany negotiation table stood at the center, gleaming under the bright lights.
Neatly arranged on its surface were multiple copies of the equity acquisition agreement,
Each printed on high-quality paper with impeccable formatting.
The sound of pen strokes against paper filled the room,
A soft but deliberate "scritch, scritch" as signatures were placed.
As the final signatures were completed,
The conference room erupted in applause—deafening, thunderous.
"Congratulations, Mr. Tang. I believe this partnership will bring tremendous opportunities for both of us."
"Thank you."
As the clapping subsided,
The two parties shook hands, engaged in pleasant conversation,
The tense negotiation atmosphere dissolved into one of harmony and enthusiasm.
Sunlight broke through the clouds, streaming through the massive glass windows, illuminating the entire conference room.
The lawyers gathered around, carefully organizing the finalized agreements.
The Phase 1 project of Yannan Short Drama Film Base was officially valued at 145 million yuan.
Tang Song had acquired 80% of Handing Group’s stake, amounting to 116 million yuan.
With that—
He officially became the controlling shareholder of Yannan Film Base Co., Ltd.
And would take part in its future operations and management.
—
"Ding!"
A brilliant system screen unfolded before his eyes.
【August 30, 2023】
Through meticulous market research, you identified and secured the acquisition of a key target company.
After comprehensive due diligence, strategic negotiations, and precise pricing decisions, you seamlessly executed three investment transactions.
You feel an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and fulfillment, driving you to pursue even greater business milestones.
【You have completed Growth Plan Task ③: "Rising Capitalist."】
【You have unlocked the Achievement: "Embarking on the Journey."】
【You have received the reward: Charm +1】
【Phase Two Growth Plan Task – Completed】
【You have received: Growth Pack 1】
A crisp system notification followed—
"Ding! Congratulations, player. The Phase Three Growth Plan Task has been unlocked."
Your Charm has reached 70, successfully unlocking access to this stage’s assets and privileges.
Tang Song’s eyes gleamed as he took in the vibrant system interface.
As expected—completing Phase Two had granted a boost to his Charm stat.
Excusing himself from the crowd, he stepped into a quiet lounge.
His gaze returned to the system interface.
Navigating to his personal profile, he saw a dazzling progress bar stretching across the screen.
【24' (Base Charm) … 30' … 40' … 50' … 60' … 70' … 80' … 90' … 100'】
The treasure chest hovering above the 70-mark was pulsing with golden light, signaling it was ready to be claimed.
Tang Song’s eyes swept across the cityscape outside—the endless traffic, towering skyscrapers.
He let his excitement settle before finally tapping the glowing chest.
The screen blurred for a brief second.
Then, a series of new notifications appeared.
"Ding! You have acquired 【Confluent Capital Limited】."
"Ding! You have unlocked a new system module: 【Asset Blueprint】."
"Ding! You have unlocked partial privileges for game characters 【Advisor - Annie Kate】 and 【Headhunter - Zheng Qiudong】."
"Ding! You have received the special item 【Feather of Memory 1】."
—
【Confluent Capital Limited】
Founded in 2018 and registered in Hong Kong,
Private equity firm managing multiple funds across the U.S., Singapore, and other regions,
Total Assets Under Management (AUM): $2 billion,
Owner: Tang Song (100%).
Equity Structure:
Tang Song (60%)
Employee Shareholding Platform (20%)
Tang Jin Family Office (15%)
Kate Trust (5%)
Registered Address:
38th Floor, International Finance Centre Phase II, Central, Hong Kong.
Investment Focus:
Private equity, venture capital.
Portfolio:
Meigou International Import & Export Co., Ltd.
RuiDe Biotech (Pre-B round)
ScaleAI…
—
Tang Song’s charm had reached 70, and now,
He officially owned a billion-dollar private equity firm.