novelraw Chapter 431: A Beautician’s Daily Life, Xiaojing’s Punishment
Chapter 431: A Beautician’s Daily Life, Xiaojing’s Punishment
The phone kept vibrating nonstop.
Messages popped up one after another in three different WeChat groups.
Wen Ruan could only keep thanking everyone in the chats.
These three groups weren’t particularly large. The biggest one, Entertainment Media Club, created by Mo Xiangwan, had just over 300 members.
But the weight of this group was immense.
Every single person in it carried significant influence. ᴛʜɪs ᴄʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀ ɪs ᴜᴘᴅᴀᴛᴇ ʙʏ novelFɪre.net
As more messages poured in, true industry titans started appearing—giants like Tencent, Alibaba, and ByteDance, as well as well-known international firms like Deloitte, Sequoia, and TPG.
Seeing the warm welcome messages, Wen Ruan felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. A sense of indescribable accomplishment and joy washed over her.
People all have a bit of vanity, some more than others.
Having worked for years, Wen Ruan naturally harbored a competitive mindset.At this moment, being introduced into such a high-level social circle magnified that feeling, making her feel slightly lightheaded.
She was overwhelmed with emotions for a while before picking up her phone and calling Tang Song.
With her intelligence, it wasn’t hard to guess who was behind this.
But for Tang Song to make such a big move without informing her in advance made her a little nervous.
She just wanted to live a quiet life as a carefree lover, enjoying love and luxury—she never expected to rise this high.
“Beep… Beep… Beep…”
After a few rings, Tang Song’s warm and pleasant voice came through, “Hello, Ruanruan.”
Wen Ruan licked her lips, suppressing her excitement, and asked, “I was just suddenly pulled into a group chat by Mo Xiangwan and Luo Bin. They said they wanted to help me. What’s going on?”
“Oh… that quickly…” Tang Song paused briefly before continuing, “I arranged it.”
Wen Ruan exhaled and playfully joked, “Suddenly being so good to me? Did you do something you feel guilty about? Or do you want to try some new positions?”
Tang Song chuckled softly, his voice carrying a deeper meaning, “There are indeed a lot of positions on you that haven’t been explored yet. We should take our time trying them out—I’ll prepare the props.”
“Ew~ You pervert.” Wen Ruan’s cheeks turned pink as she spoke in a coy tone, “I’m not joking anymore. Tell me the real reason!”
“Isn’t this what I promised you? I’m just fulfilling my commitment, nothing more.”
“Promise…”
Tang Song’s words instantly triggered Wen Ruan’s memories, making her eyes pause slightly.
After they had slept together that night, he had given her three choices.
Upon learning about Su Yu’s existence, the immense pressure and fear had forced her to strive upwards.
So, she had chosen the third option he provided.
At the time, he did say he would fully support her career development, nurture her leadership and team management skills, introduce her to his connections in the entertainment and media industry, and help her expand her high-level social network.
He even promised to help her build a personal brand and public recognition, shaping her into a true career-oriented woman.
Looking back now, Tang Song had been completely serious about his promise—without the slightest hint of perfunctory effort.
The proxy shares of Xingyun International, the presidency of Light and Shadow Media, the training in Shanghai, the professional assistant team, and now this elite social network.
Her status and resources were soaring at an exponential rate.
Tang Song was lifting her up, placing her in a position she had never dared to imagine.
This damn man was actually adorably sincere.
Endless emotions surged through her mind, and tears welled up in Wen Ruan’s eyes, “I understand now. Thank you.”
The two talked for a while longer.
After hanging up, Wen Ruan took a deep breath to calm herself, then dialed her father’s number.
She told him she would be going home tonight.
Tomorrow, she would be taking over Yanbei Printing Factory, so there were some things she needed to discuss with her father in advance.
4 PM
Isha Beauty Headquarters
In the elegantly decorated, minimalist-chic office, a soft knock sounded at the door.
“Knock, knock, knock—”
Zhao Yaqian, who had been lounging in her chair playing on her phone, immediately sat up straight and adjusted the documents in front of her.
“Come in.”
The door opened, and Liu Ying, the administration manager, walked in.
“Sorry to disturb you, Qianqian.” Liu Ying placed a paper bag on her desk and said warmly, “I had a meeting at the Qiaoxi branch today, and on the way back, I passed by a dessert shop. They were having a promotion, so I couldn’t resist buying extra. Try some—it’s really delicious.”
Zhao Yaqian’s eyes lit up as she happily took the bag. “Thanks, Yingjie! Wow, macarons! I haven’t had these in ages!”
As she spoke, she eagerly picked one up and took a small bite, her eyes curving into crescents. “So good!”
Liu Ying chuckled behind her hand. “Glad you like it. I’ll bring you more next time.”
“No need, no need. Once in a while is fine—I can’t eat too much.”
After finishing one macaron, Zhao Yaqian closed the bag again and licked her lips.
She loved sweets, but since she had been practicing dance recently, she had been strictly controlling her diet—even giving up her favorite steak and skewers.
“So disciplined. No wonder your figure is amazing.” Liu Ying sat down in a nearby chair and casually asked, “By the way, Qianqian, your hometown is Decheng, Shandong Province, right?”
“Mhm, yeah.”
“I’m from Dongchang, also in Shandong. We’re practically hometown neighbors—not far at all.”
Hearing this, Zhao Yaqian’s face instantly brightened, and she switched to her hometown dialect, chatting animatedly with Liu Ying about home.
She had been away for over six months now, and as much as she wouldn’t admit it, she did miss home.
Luckily, Tingzi was in Yan City with her, so she at least had a familiar face by her side in daily life.
Listening to Zhao Yaqian talk, Liu Ying’s gaze flickered slightly.
In truth, many people in the company were extremely curious about this new shareholder.
After all, she was just a regular beautician at Isha Beauty Salon before this, and she was only 19 years old—she hadn’t even gone to university.
From what Liu Ying gathered, Zhao Yaqian wasn’t some wealthy heiress “experiencing life”—she was just a regular girl from a small county town.
And Liu Ying had met too many people like that.
Isha Beauty was full of employees from similar backgrounds.
Looking at Zhao Yaqian’s sexy and alluring features, a guess naturally formed in Liu Ying’s mind.
She must’ve just been lucky and landed a generous, rich man.
After chatting for a while, Liu Ying glanced at the time and stood up. “It’s almost 5 PM. There’s a Shandong restaurant nearby that’s super authentic. How about we grab a drink and chat over dinner?”
As one of the company’s shareholders, Zhao Yaqian didn’t have to clock out.
She usually left around 5 PM to avoid traffic.
Liu Ying, who was technically out on business today, had brought the desserts just to butter her up, so leaving work early with her was no big deal.
But Zhao Yaqian shook her head and smiled, “Next time. I’ve got a date with my boyfriend tonight.”
"Alright, I remember you live in the city center, right? I happen to be heading that way. Let me give you a ride."
Faced with Liu Ying's enthusiasm, Zhao Yaqian felt it would be impolite to refuse again, so she nodded. "Then I'll trouble you, Yingjie."
"Oh, come on, no need to be so formal with me! We're hometown folks. When you're away from home, you have to look out for each other." Liu Ying chuckled, her eyes flashing slightly.
Having worked in the corporate world for years, she had a clear grasp of Zhao Yaqian’s personality—simple, a little naive, the straightforward kind of person.
On top of that, given her wealth and status, she was definitely a valuable connection to make.
At the moment, Isha Beauty had already completed renovations on two stores, and both had the required certifications and equipment in place. Staff recruitment and training were currently underway.
Next, the company planned to establish a "Concierge Center", which would serve as a support department for minimally invasive aesthetic treatments.
Several people from her previous company were eyeing the department manager position.
With Zhao Yaqian’s personality, once they became close enough, Liu Ying was confident she could "persuade" her into helping with her promotion and pay raise.
If she played her cards right, she might even be able to gain additional benefits.
After tidying up their things, the two walked out together.
While waiting for the elevator, Liu Ying kept showering Zhao Yaqian with compliments, making her blush.
They stepped into the elevator one after another.
Instantly, several pairs of eyes turned toward Zhao Yaqian.
A 5'9'' tall beauty with a curvy, seductive figure and radiant, dewy skin—she was eye-catching no matter where she stood.
Some men in the elevator were clearly tempted to approach her.
But as soon as they noticed the luxury brands she was casually sporting, they quickly lost their nerve.
Some people were just out of reach—it was obvious she belonged to a different world.
"Ding—"
The elevator doors slid open.
Following the flow of people, the two women walked out.
Liu Ying kept talking about company gossip, subtly inserting a few personal topics.
Zhao Yaqian, carrying her LV Carryall, simply smiled and listened without commenting much.
She might not fully understand office politics, but she had a great best friend.
Xiaoxue often reminded her: Colleagues and friends should be kept separate.
Now that she was a shareholder and part of the management, she had to be even more cautious when dealing with her colleagues.
They had only walked a few steps when a tall figure suddenly blocked their way.
Liu Ying instinctively stopped talking and looked up, momentarily stunned.
This was a remarkably handsome man, dressed in well-tailored clothing, exuding an impeccable aura—he looked like a celebrity.
His deep, sharp eyes made him seem both mysterious and commanding.
While Liu Ying was still in a daze, Zhao Yaqian let out a surprised cry and immediately leaped forward.
In the bustling office building lobby, she threw herself into the man's arms, hugging him tightly.
"Song-ge! Why are you suddenly here? Did you come to see me?"
"Of course."
Tang Song wrapped his arms around the beautician, his gaze filled with undisguised affection.
"I’m taking you out for some delicious food. Then, we’re going to watch a movie tonight."
"Ah! Yes! Mua~ Mua~"
Zhao Yaqian excitedly kissed Tang Song’s cheek a few times, her face flushed with joy.
She then turned around and said, "Yingjie, my boyfriend came to pick me up, so I won’t trouble you for the ride."
"Oh… oh, okay…"
Their eyes met briefly.
Tang Song gave her a polite nod, but his gaze carried a subtle sense of distance.
Liu Ying’s eyelid twitched, her mind reeling in shock.
"Alright, we’re off. Bye-bye, Yingjie!"
Zhao Yaqian waved, then clung to Tang Song’s arm and walked off with him.
"Bye-bye…"
Liu Ying let out a long breath, watching them as they exited the building.
Her eyes stayed glued to Tang Song's striking figure.
A deep, sour feeling rose in her heart.
Zhao Yaqian’s boyfriend… looks like THAT?!
He was nothing like she had imagined.
Just as she was processing this, a Rolls-Royce Phantom pulled up beside them.
The back door swung open, revealing an exquisitely luxurious interior.
Moments later, Zhao Yaqian and her boyfriend stepped into the car.
It wasn’t until the Rolls-Royce disappeared from sight that Liu Ying finally snapped back to reality.
Unknowingly, a layer of cold sweat had formed on her forehead.
In an instant, all her previous thoughts of underestimating Zhao Yaqian vanished.
Zhao Yaqian might be simple, but the man behind her… was definitely not someone she could afford to mess with.
"Isha Beauty’s current plan is to introduce transitional minimally invasive aesthetic treatments first—things like skin barrier repair, microneedling, and mesotherapy. These can seamlessly integrate with our traditional treatments, making it easier for customers to accept…
"Sister Yurong has an extensive network. We’ve already established priority referral channels with several top-tier hospitals in the city…"
Inside the quiet car, Zhao Yaqian held Tang Song’s hand, her eyes sparkling as she chatted excitedly about her work.
In reality, she wasn’t just slacking off in the company—she was actively fulfilling her role as a supervisor.
After all, she had invested 40 million yuan—at the very least, she needed to understand how the money was being spent.
Although Slover Trust had a full post-investment management team, she still followed up diligently.
Tang Song turned to look at her, listening quietly.
His gaze was filled with warmth and admiration.
She had indeed matured a lot.
She was changing, little by little.
But from her, he could still see glimpses of the girl she used to be.
The adorable young woman who went on a road trip with him.
The girl who said "Fill it up with 95," who said "Wait till I get my paycheck," who said "Thank you, Song-ge," who talked about her programmer friend, who called her former boss "a greedy bastard."
Maybe there was a time when, facing the family trust and the mansion he gave her, she felt conflicted.
But as they spent more time together, as she grew, as she gradually embraced her new reality—
She was returning to her true self.
Just like he was, at this moment.
"Tang-zong, we’ve arrived."
From the driver’s seat, Liu Jiayi’s efficient voice rang out.
Tang Song snapped out of his thoughts, gently squeezing the smooth, curvy leg resting on his lap before chuckling.
"Come on, Qianqian, let’s go eat something delicious."
"Mhm!"
Zhao Yaqian beamed and hopped out of the car with him.
Soon, a familiar setting appeared before them.
She blinked, surprised. "Song-ge… this is Yunsheng Plaza? We’re eating here tonight?"
"Yeah."
Tang Song stepped closer, took her delicate hand, and walked forward.
Before long, they reached the entrance of a familiar pedestrian street.
The street was bustling with people, music playing from various shops.
As they strolled along the smooth stone pavement, an old but familiar shop came into view—
The former location of Yizi Beauty.
Only now, it had transformed into a trendy fashion store with an eye-catching storefront.
Looking at the familiar yet unfamiliar scene, Zhao Yaqian felt momentarily dazed.
"Song-ge, let’s go inside and have a look, okay?"
"Sure, let’s go!"
As they stepped into the store, a familiar voice greeted them.
"Welcome! What can I help you with today?"
A figure approached from the side.
It was a man in his forties, sporting tattoos and earrings, dressed in a trendy style—he was actually a bit handsome.
Their eyes met, and all three of them froze.
"Qianqian?"
Zhao Yaqian blinked in surprise. "Director Li? What are you doing here?"
Li Wen gave an awkward smile, rubbing his nose. "Just getting by. After Yizi Beauty went under, a few friends and I pooled some money together and took over this store. Now it’s a clothing shop. What about you, Qianqian? Are you still in...?"
He had originally wanted to ask about her current situation, but then he noticed her outfit and accessories.
A full ensemble of luxury brands.
A Hermès watch on her wrist.
But what struck him the most was the overall aura—she exuded a refined, expensive presence.
She was nothing like the beauty salon assistant he once knew.
It was as if she had transformed into a phoenix overnight.
His gaze then shifted to the young man beside her.
Damn… this guy is seriously handsome.
In fact, he had a bit of the charm Li Wen had when he was younger.
Wait… why does he look so familiar?
Zhao Yaqian smiled softly. "I’m still in the beauty industry, but I’m no longer a beautician. By the way, did the boss ever pay you your wages?"
"I’ve known him for years, so after a lot of pestering, I managed to get about half of it back."
Li Wen gestured toward Tang Song, suddenly curious. "Is this your boyfriend?"
"Yup!" Zhao Yaqian’s eyes lit up with happiness as she looked at him.
"Director Li, long time no see."
Tang Song smiled and extended his right hand.
Li Wen instinctively shook hands with him, but then hesitated. "Wait… have we met before?"
"Of course." Tang Song’s eyes glimmered with amusement. "I remember you very well, Director Li. I came in for a micro-layered cut, and you gave me a full-on traitor bowl cut instead."
"Pfft—" Zhao Yaqian burst out laughing on the spot.
Li Wen’s mouth twitched, letting out a dry chuckle. "Well… mistakes happen. But you see, I’ve switched industries now. Come on, pick anything in the store—I’ll give you two a 40% discount!"
The three of them chatted for a bit.
Tang Song didn’t tease him any further and instead took Zhao Yaqian’s hand and started browsing the shop.
That infamous bowl cut incident may have been a disaster, but it did get him some viral traction and even led him to meet his junior, Yao Lingling.
A funny memory, all things considered.
After a quick look around, they only bought a matching pair of red-and-white baseball caps.
Even after the discount, the total came to 120 yuan.
Leaving the store, the two walked along the pedestrian street until they reached a familiar spot—just 300 meters ahead, a handmade fried skewer shop.
It was dinnertime, and the shop was already filling up with customers.
Luckily, there was one last available table.
As soon as Zhao Yaqian caught the familiar aroma, her nose twitched, and she excitedly grabbed a glass tray to pick out skewers.
"It’s been forever since I had juicy sweet potato starch sheets—gotta get three!"
"Starch sausage and Wangzhongwang for sure, quail eggs, lamb skewers, tofu skin with cilantro, spiral potatoes… Song-ge, do you eat pork belly?"
"Of course! Let’s get five sticks!"
Zhao Yaqian was completely in her element, radiating the carefree energy of a girl her age.
Before long, her tray was piled high.
The bald shop owner tapped away on his calculator.
"38 skewers, total 153 yuan."
Zhao Yaqian swiftly scanned the QR code and paid, then turned to secretly grumble to Tang Song about how several skewers had increased in price, and the portions had gotten smaller.
After a satisfying feast, they strolled around Yunsheng Plaza, letting their food settle.
Night had fallen.
The city lights flickered on, the glow of neon signs casting a soft radiance around them.
Looking at Zhao Yaqian’s delicate and well-defined profile, breathing in her light fragrance mixed with a hint of fried skewers, Tang Song couldn’t resist.
He leaned in and gently kissed her cheek.
When she turned to look at him, he grinned mischievously and said, "I love you."
Zhao Yaqian bit her lower lip, her face blooming into a shy, yet incredibly sweet blush.
Under the night sky, her smile blossomed—brighter than the neon lights.
In the end, since there weren’t any good movies showing, they decided to head back to the private theater at Yanjing Tiancheng instead.
Back in their luxury apartment, Zhao Yaqian sniffed herself, then immediately went to take a shower.
The fried skewer session had been way too intense, and both her hair and clothes had ended up with sauce stains.
Besides, there was a high chance that “watching a movie” would turn into another kind of game.
For the best experience with her beloved boyfriend, she had to make sure she was fresh and fragrant.
Meanwhile, Tang Song grabbed a bottle of whiskey, sliced up a fruit platter, and leaned back in the massage chair of the private theater, pulling out his phone.
A few unread messages had come in.
One of them was from Xiaojing—a voice message.
Clicking play, her sweet voice filled the earpiece.
"Tang Song-gege, are you free for a video call? I have something I want to talk to you about."
Instinctively, he glanced toward the bathroom, estimating the beautician’s shower time.
Without hesitation, he sent a video call invitation.
Soon, the call connected, and Xiaojing’s lovely face appeared on screen.
She was wearing a revealing camisole, her plump chest partially exposed, looking incredibly fair-skinned.
"Good evening, Xiaojing. Have you eaten?"
Xiaojing nodded obediently. "Mhm, I have."
After a bit of casual small talk, Tang Song finally asked, "So, what did you want to tell me?"
Xiaojing’s eyes sparkled as she excitedly shared, "I got a notice after work today! Since I performed exceptionally well during training, I’ve been given the opportunity to meet Director Jin this week. I’m so excited!"
"Oh? That’s great news! Xiaojing, you’re amazing—keep it up."
Tang Song raised an eyebrow, his breathing subtly quickening.
Based on his current assessment, it should be nearing April.
Considering how he had been frequenting Jinxiu Commerce, Secretary Jin must’ve been feeling pressured and decided to invest in the company.
There was no way Secretary Jin wasn’t aware of Xiaojing’s connection to him.
Given her calculative nature, Xiaojing was probably about to get played hard.
How pitiful.
Just as Tang Song was about to offer some words of concern, Xiaojing suddenly blushed, knelt on the bed, and spoke sincerely.
"Because I was so excited, I… I smoked and drank just now. Tang Song-gege, I’m sorry—I’ve disappointed you and failed to keep my promise. Please punish me!"
"Uh… punish you?"
He was nowhere near her, so what was he supposed to do—take a high-speed train just to spank her?
Xiaojing bit her lip, lowering her voice.
"Tang Song-daren, you decide. I’ll carry out the punishment myself."
(…00o)
Tang Song’s eyebrows twitched as his mouth slowly fell open.
Damn.
Xiaojing, you really know how to stir things up!
Looking at the sweet and obedient little girlfriend on the screen, Tang Song silently unfolded his foldable phone, making her image even clearer.
He took a deep breath, his expression stern.
"Xiaojing, you've really disappointed me. First, spank yourself. You can only stop when I say so!"
"Okay, Tang Song-daren."
Xiaojing quickly propped up her phone, freeing both hands and adjusting her position.
"Pa—"
"I’m sorry! I won’t ever do it again! Please forgive me!"
"Pa—"
"Simi Marseille!"
After a while, Tang Song finally spoke in a low voice.
"Stop."
Yet Xiaojing still gave herself two more smacks before reluctantly stopping.
"Please continue, sir."
"Do you still remember what I did to you on Qixi Festival?"
Xiaojing licked her lips, her expression both shy and obedient.
"I remember."
"Then, begin."
"Yes, sir."
Xiaojing softly replied, then slowly moved her hand downward.
Watching the thrilling scene unfolding on the screen, Tang Song felt his pulse quicken.
He had almost forgotten—Xiaojing was a pure little deviant.
Even if Secretary Jin played all sorts of mind games with her, she probably wouldn’t be scared at all.