novelraw Chapter 428: A Shortcut
Chapter 428: A Shortcut
The room fell into complete silence as the conversation between the two continued.
Shen Yuyan keenly noticed something off in Wu Wenhao’s expression. She swiftly got up from the sofa area and walked lightly to Lin Muxue’s side.
“Brother Wu, long time no see. I didn’t expect you and Xiaoxue to know each other. What a coincidence.”
With a graceful smile and a natural tone, she broke the brief silence, easing the tension in the private room.
“It is quite a coincidence.” Wu Wenhao took a deep breath, trying to steady his emotions. A polite smile returned to his face. “Miss Lin, let’s sit down and chat.”
“Let’s sit and talk for a bit, Xiaoxue.” Shen Yuyan gently pulled Lin Muxue’s arm, her tone light and affectionate.
She had only met Wu Wenhao a couple of times and was merely casual friends with Liu Xuan. The reason she came to this gathering was partly because of Xu Qing’s mother, Madam Han, but more importantly, she wanted to get closer to Wu Wenhao.
No matter what, for her, Lin Muxue was a perfect bridge at this moment.
Lin Muxue glanced at her, the corners of her mouth slightly curling up before nodding. “Sure.”
She was well aware that Shen Yuyan was deliberately using her today. She could also sense the envy and jealousy in Shen Yuyan’s gaze.But she didn’t mind at all. In fact, she rather enjoyed the feeling of suppressing her.
As they returned to the sofa area, the crowd’s eyes remained fixed on Lin Muxue, filled with curiosity and admiration.
Even those unfamiliar with luxury brands could tell from her outfit and aura that she was someone extraordinary.
Coupled with Wu Wenhao’s respect and enthusiasm, it was even more evident that she was no ordinary person.
Lin Muxue took the initiative to greet, “Hello, Qingqing. Yuyan told me you were just upstairs, so I decided to drop by uninvited. Hope you don’t mind.”
“No, no, not at all! You’re very welcome.” Xu Qing quickly shifted aside to make room.
Although she often portrayed herself as the one putting others in their place in novels, facing Lin Muxue in reality—with her commanding aura—Miss Xu Qing instinctively took a step back.
Lin Muxue chuckled softly and elegantly sat beside Xu Qing.
Wu Wenhao immediately picked up the teapot and poured her a cup. “Miss Lin, please have some tea.”
“Thank you.”
On the other side, Han Yajing blinked and whispered, “Qingqing, is this your friend?”
“Mm, this is Lin Muxue. She’s a friend of Yanyan and me.” Xu Qing introduced her in a hushed voice, “Xiaoxue, this is my mom.”
“Uh… Auntie, hello.” Lin Muxue’s expression froze for a moment before she finally had the mind to observe the rest of the group.
Damn… so this was actually a family gathering?
“Hello, Xiaoxue. Have you eaten?” Han Yajing beamed and waved at her, pride evident on her face.
Her daughter was truly outstanding—just look at the friends she made!
Lin Muxue quickly responded, “I was just attending a banquet downstairs. I just dropped by to say hi to Qingqing.”
She wasn’t about to stick around for a free meal—her main purpose was simply to strengthen her connection with Xu Qing.
And judging by the atmosphere, this wasn’t a place to linger. A quick flex and then an exit seemed like the best move.
Liu Xuan’s gaze flickered slightly as she held onto her fiancé’s arm and asked, “Wenhao, how do you know Miss Lin? You never mentioned her before.”
This Lin Muxue who suddenly appeared was not only stunning but had an intimidating presence. Judging from her style and aura, she was clearly no ordinary person.
She was very curious about how she had become friends with Shen Yuyan and Xu Qing.
Wu Wenhao took a small sip of tea, trying to mask his inner turmoil.
His eyes landed on Lin Muxue as he tried to keep his tone calm. “Miss Lin is President Tang’s assistant. We met during a business meeting.”
Liu Xuan’s voice tensed up. “You mean… Tang as in…”
“Yes, that Tang Song.” Wu Wenhao exhaled, shifting his gaze toward Xu Qing.
As his words fell, the room once again lapsed into silence.
This was just too much of a coincidence.
They had just been discussing that very President Tang, and now, one of his assistants had shown up.
Shen Yuyan froze for a moment, confused. “Brother Wu, Sister Xuanxuan, you guys know Tang Song?”
Liu Xuan opened her mouth slightly and looked at Xu Qing, who suddenly felt both familiar and unfamiliar, at a loss for words.
Wu Wenhao nodded solemnly. “Yes, we were just talking about Qingqing’s boyfriend. We just didn’t expect him to be President Tang.”
“Ha…” Xu Qing’s eyelid twitched, and she nervously glanced at Lin Muxue.
She knew very well that Tang Song didn’t have just one girlfriend—and she came later in the picture.
Who knew if Lin Muxue was also one of them?
And now, with this topic being discussed in front of so many people, including some elders…
If Lin Muxue got emotional and blurted something out, her whole carefully crafted persona could be ruined.
Lin Muxue’s lips moved slightly before she feigned a casual tone. “Qingqing is indeed President Tang’s girlfriend.”
Confirmation.
All eyes turned toward Xu Qing.
A collective gasp filled the room, followed by excited murmurs.
“Oh wow, Qingqing is really lucky!”
“I wasn’t sure at first when she mentioned it earlier, but I didn’t expect it to be true!”
“Investing over a hundred million in a film base… That’s some serious wealth!”
Han Yajing gripped her daughter’s hand tightly, overflowing with joy.
At the center of attention, Xu Qing wiggled slightly in her seat, internally beaming.
Nice! Nice!
Xiaoxue was reliable after all—she didn’t throw her under the bus at the critical moment!
She decided she’d add more positive scenes for her in the novel later!
Meanwhile, Shen Yuyan sat quietly in the corner, listening to the discussions, her eyes full of confusion.
After a while, she finally couldn’t hold back and asked, “Brother Wu, what was that 100-million-plus investment about?”
Wu Wenhao’s expression turned serious. “Last month, President Tang invested 116 million yuan to acquire 80% of the first-phase equity in the Yannan Short Drama Film Base from our group. I had the privilege of being part of that deal, which is how I met both President Tang and Miss Lin.”
Hearing this, Lin Muxue glanced at Shen Yuyan and nonchalantly nodded. “President Tang is very optimistic about the short drama business. This collaboration is mutually beneficial.”
Wu Wenhao quickly chimed in, “Haha, Miss Lin is absolutely right!”
Shen Yuyan’s mind felt as if it had been struck hard, her grip on her teacup tightening.
So, Lin Muxue was only valued by Handing Group because of her role as Tang Song’s assistant?
But none of that even mattered.
What truly shook her was Tang Song’s sheer boldness and decisive action.
When Xu Qing had joined Fanfu Suzi Media under Guo Liyuan’s invitation, she had thoroughly researched the short drama market—especially the situation in Yan Province.
She was no stranger to the Yannan Short Drama Film Base.
It was a joint project developed by Handing Group and Yan Provincial Cultural Tourism Investment Group, carrying strong governmental and political influence.
It was also a key initiative in the local “Yan City Cultural Tourism” plan.
Once operational, it would become the epicenter of the short drama industry in Yan Province and the surrounding regions.
The keywords “116 million yuan,” “film base,” “Fanfu Suzi Media,” and “Tang Song” swirled in Shen Yuyan’s mind, leaving her thoughts in disarray.
Everything… had been set in motion by her own hands.
At the time, Youjie Domestic Services had rejected Tang Song’s investment. In order not to strain her relationship with Qingqing, she had introduced Fanfu Suzi Media to Tang Song instead.
With this film base, Fanfu Suzi Media would skyrocket in no time.
It had a strong chance of becoming one of the country’s top short drama production companies.
As for Guo Liyuan, that old classmate of hers—she would ascend to a whole new social class and finally gain access to the elite circles she had always longed for.
But if Tang Song had chosen to invest in Youjie Domestic Services instead… what would have become of her?
Liu Xuan suddenly stood up and asked, “Qingqing, your boyfriend is coming to join us for dinner, right?”
Lin Muxue, who had been calmly sipping tea, abruptly pressed her legs tightly together, her bladder tensing up. A flash of panic flickered across her face.
Tang Song is coming here to meet Xu Qing’s family?
If he saw her here, would he be upset?
“Mm, he’s already on his way,” Xu Qing licked her slightly dry lips and straightened her posture, trying to appear more composed.
Liu Xuan, feeling nervous, quickly instructed, “Wenhao, go find a waiter and order a few more dishes. And get some good wine.”
“Got it.” Wu Wenhao immediately stood up and followed her out.
Han Yajing whispered urgently, “Qingqing, hurry and call Tang Song. Check where he is and go meet him.”
“Got it,” Xu Qing responded, picking up her phone and dialing his number.
She stepped into a quiet corner of the private room and spoke to Tang Song in a hushed tone.
After a brief conversation, she turned to the group and said, “Tang Song is almost here. I’ll head downstairs to meet him.”
With both Wu Wenhao and Lin Muxue present, things were a little complicated.
She needed to give Tang Song a heads-up in advance to avoid any awkward situations later.
“Go, go!” Han Yajing waved her hand eagerly, excitement written all over her face.
After all these little surprises tonight, her expectations for her daughter’s mysterious billionaire boyfriend had reached an all-time high.
She just hoped that the photos Qingqing had posted weren’t overly edited.
If he really looked like that in person… then her daughter had truly struck gold!
As Xu Qing’s figure disappeared out the door, Lin Muxue’s heart pounded.
She wanted to excuse herself and leave, but hesitation held her back.
After all, Tang Song would definitely find out she had been here.
Heaven help me, I swear I don’t want to cause him any trouble.
She glanced at Shen Yuyan, who was sitting there in a daze, and irritation surged in her heart.
She was certain now—Shen Yuyan knew Tang Song was coming.
Yet she hadn’t bothered to warn her.
This woman sure plays dirty. Definitely not someone easy to get along with in the future.
As if sensing her gaze, Shen Yuyan suddenly turned her head, her expression unreadable.
With a complicated look in her eyes, she asked, “Xiaoxue, aren’t you a Senior Assistant at the Trust Committee? How did you end up as Tang Song’s assistant?”
Lin Muxue raised an eyebrow and smiled faintly. “President Tang thinks highly of me, so he transferred me to work by his side as his personal assistant. I now handle and oversee many of his asset operations, including Lanfeng International Hotel and the film base project.”
Their eyes met.
Lin Muxue made no attempt to hide her pride—she even crossed her legs in a relaxed manner.
Shen Yuyan clenched her fists tightly and struggled to get her words out. “I see… so that’s how it is.”
So all of Lin Muxue’s confidence came from Tang Song.
And from her words, it was clear that Tang Song had a strong influence over that trust company.
That was significant.
Slover Trust was backing Juqing Huijin—one of the biggest names in the industry.
The deeper she dug, the more she realized just how formidable Tang Song was.
“Mm.” Lin Muxue smiled at her before suddenly saying, “Oh, by the way, Yuyan… I heard from my colleagues at Juqing Huijin that President Tang had them conduct research on Youjie Domestic Services before. He seemed interested in investing. I’m quite curious—why was it canceled?”
Shen Yuyan felt a sharp pain in her chest.
That was a stab straight to the heart.
Her face turned stiff, and for a moment, she couldn’t find any words.
“Xiaoxue, Yanyan, have some tea.”
Just then, Han Yajing, still basking in the admiration of the group, came over and enthusiastically poured tea for the two of them.
“Thank you, Auntie,” Lin Muxue responded sweetly, maintaining her elegant composure. “By the way, Auntie, I just noticed—you have such amazing skin! What’s your secret?”
Hearing such praise, Han Yajing’s heart melted. “Oh, nonsense! I don’t really do much. Just some regular skincare.”
“Well, Auntie, you must have incredible natural skin then.”
Lin Muxue opened her purse, took out a card, and handed it over.
“This is a diamond membership card for Isha Beauty Salon. You can get four free spa treatments every month. Consider it a gift for Qingqing. She can take you there to pamper yourself.”
“Oh no, I can’t accept this.”
Liu Xuan, who was watching, chuckled. “Aunt Han, Isha Beauty is one of the top high-end beauty salon chains in Yan City. My mom and I are both members there. A diamond card requires a minimum deposit of 100,000 yuan to obtain.”
“That expensive?!” Han Yajing’s heart skipped a beat.
Lin Muxue casually placed the card into her hand.
“No need to refuse. The owner of Isha Beauty is a friend of mine. I didn’t spend a single cent on this card—it was meant as a gift for Qingqing anyway.”
While speaking, she stole a glance at Shen Yuyan, a trace of satisfaction flashing in her eyes.
You tried to trip me up? Well, here’s a little counterplay for you.
Hearing that it was free, Han Yajing finally relaxed. “Well… in that case, I’ll accept it on Qingqing’s behalf. I’ll make sure she thanks you properly later.”
At that moment, the private room door suddenly swung open.
Wu Wenhao stepped in, accompanied by a few middle-aged men in suits who exuded an air of authority.
Shen Yuyan immediately stood up and greeted them proactively. “President Zhao, President Li…”
These men were the senior executives from Handing Group whom she had just met downstairs at the banquet—with Lin Muxue.
“Hello, Miss Lin, Miss Shen.”
“Miss Lin, pleasure to meet you.”
Lin Muxue smiled politely and gave them a small nod.
Seeing this, everyone in the room quickly stood up, looking at the new arrivals in surprise.
Wu Wenhao smiled as he introduced them. “Xuanxuan, this is President Zhao, the Vice President in charge of commercial operations at our group. I’ve mentioned him to you before.”
“President Zhao, hello!” Liu Xuan hurriedly bowed in greeting.
Zhao Mingwen nodded and said warmly, “So, this must be the bride-to-be? Haha, Wenhao has a great eye! On behalf of the company, I wish you both a happy marriage in advance.”
“Thank you, sir!”
“Thank you for your blessing!”
After exchanging a few pleasantries, Zhao Mingwen and the others showed no sign of leaving.
Instead, they settled in and started chatting casually, creating a lively atmosphere.
Shen Yuyan immediately understood.
Wu Wenhao must have tipped off President Zhao that Tang Song was coming.
That’s why he rushed over.
Just from this reaction, it was clear how important Tang Song was in their eyes.
As she was lost in thought, the door to the private room swung open once more.
The room fell silent.
All eyes turned toward the entrance.
The first person to step in was Xu Qing.
She tried to remain composed, but her light steps and slightly upturned lips revealed just how delighted she was at the moment.
The figure behind her was tall and lean, dressed in a perfectly tailored casual suit.
His features were deep-set, his nose strikingly straight.
The lighting in the private room cast a glow on the side of his face, accentuating his chiseled jawline, making him appear even more distinguished and elegant.
A faint smile played at the corner of his lips—exuding both warmth and an undeniable sense of composure and confidence.
Shen Yuyan looked up, momentarily dazed, her heartbeat unconsciously quickening.
She instinctively took half a step forward, as if drawn toward him—
But in the end, she held herself back.
It was an unfamiliar sensation, yet she knew exactly why she was feeling this way.
Tang Song’s presence was like a magnet, constantly pulling her in.
Just then, the sound of hurried footsteps echoed through the room.
Tap. Tap. Tap.
Zhao Mingwen and the other executives quickened their pace, eagerly stepping forward to greet him.
“Good evening, Mr. Tang.” Zhao Mingwen was the first to extend his hand, his expression warm and sincere.
A flicker of surprise flashed in Tang Song’s eyes, but he quickly masked it, maintaining his composed demeanor as he reached out to shake hands. “President Zhao, good evening.”
Zhao Mingwen let out a hearty laugh and said in an affable tone, “Wenhao mentioned you’d be coming, so we decided to drop by and say hello. Hope we’re not disturbing you.”
“You’re too kind, President Zhao. It’s always a pleasure to run into familiar faces.”
At that moment, Lin Muxue stepped forward gracefully, clutching her clutch bag. Her voice was soft and elegant.
“President Tang.”
“Xiaoxue.” Tang Song greeted her with a light nod and a smile.
This was the first time he had ever seen Lin Muxue in an evening gown—
And, to be honest, she really did have that socialite aura.
Looking at him now, standing there surrounded by admirers, exuding effortless charm—
Cui Xueping sucked in a sharp breath, her voice trembling. “T-this… this is Qingqing’s boyfriend? This…”
For a moment, she was at a complete loss for words.
“Qingqing, she…” Liu Xuan bit her lip, her eyes flashing with a mix of envy and shock.
“He’s really Tang Song—I’ve seen his photos before!” Han Yajing was so excited she nearly collapsed back into her seat.
She hurriedly straightened her clothes and fixed her hair.
The real person was even more breathtaking than the photos!
And more than just his looks—his aura, his presence—were absolutely unparalleled.
She glanced around at her old friends’ stunned expressions and felt a surge of exhilaration in her heart.
If Qingqing ever brought him back home, she’d be unstoppable!
Her daughter was truly born under a lucky star!
Just then, Tang Song gently took hold of Xu Qing’s hand and walked toward them.
Xu Qing’s face flushed slightly as she introduced, “This is my mom.”
Tang Song’s tone was polite and sincere. “Auntie, nice to meet you. I’m Tang Song, Qingqing’s boyfriend.”
“Nice to meet you, nice to meet you! Ah, I’ve finally seen you in person!” Han Yajing’s eyes sparkled like she had just discovered a rare treasure.
“Qingqing really has an eye for people! Auntie likes you already!”
“Auntie, you’re too kind.”
The two quickly struck up a lively conversation, and the atmosphere in the room grew light and cheerful.
After a while, Zhao Mingwen stepped forward with a smile.
“Mr. Tang, it’s getting late, so we won’t take up more of your time.”
Tang Song nodded slightly. “Of course. Let’s find another opportunity to talk in detail.”
“Definitely, definitely. We’ll take our leave for now.” Follow current novels on novel★fire.net
Standing nearby, Lin Muxue timed her words perfectly and spoke up.
“President Tang, let me walk President Zhao and the others out. I was invited by President Zhao to attend the Handing Group’s new real estate launch banquet downstairs. If you need anything, just let me know.”
“Mm, I’ll leave it to you then.”
With that, Lin Muxue gracefully accompanied Zhao Mingwen and the executives out of the room, chatting and laughing softly as they walked.
Her demeanor was poised, her words eloquent—an impressive display of personal charm and professionalism.
Standing off to the side, Shen Yuyan silently watched everything unfold, her emotions a complex whirlwind.
From start to finish, no one paid much attention to her.
Even when Tang Song had seen her, he had merely acknowledged her with a calm nod—
Then moved on.
It was as if she was insignificant, completely unimportant.
That feeling stung.
It burned her inside.
She turned her gaze toward Lin Muxue’s retreating figure at the doorway.
Then, her eyes flickered toward Tang Song, standing not far away.
A thought surfaced in her mind—one she had suppressed before, but now it grew stronger.
If Lin Muxue can do it, why can’t I?
What makes me any less than her?
As someone sharp and perceptive, Shen Yuyan knew her own strengths and weaknesses well.
Whether it was looks, figure, intelligence, or social skills—she was more than confident in herself.
The only thing she lacked was opportunity and resources.
That was a consequence of her background and life experiences.
If she could reach Lin Muxue’s level, she would have access to a higher platform, better resources, and top-tier connections.
Her chances of achieving financial freedom and breaking into the upper class would be far greater than if she continued down the Youjie Domestic Services path.
Even if she wanted to start her own business in the future, it would be a thousand times easier than struggling now.
This was a shortcut.
A shortcut dripping with temptation.
The only problem was—
If she took this shortcut, she would inevitably be tempted to take an even shorter one.
And that shortcut was—becoming Tang Song’s woman.
Sure, Tang Song already had many women.
But if she really did this, it would mean she was competing with her best friend for a man.
Qingqing might not mind now… but what about in the future?
Would it ruin their friendship?
She glanced at Xu Qing’s cute, carefree face.
Her mind wandered back to their memories from middle school, scene after scene flashing through her thoughts.
Shen Yuyan slowly lowered her head, her vision growing uncertain and blurred.