novelraw Chapter 444: A New Partner Slot
Chapter 444: A New Partner Slot
In the corner of the café by the window.
Tang Song’s eye twitched slightly as he forced himself to speak. "Sister Shuyu, you've been working hard lately. I read the research report you sent yesterday."
Because of his past experiences, he had always held a certain level of respect for this older female CEO. Even after they got together, he had never been too aggressive.
Now, being caught by her while on a date with Wen Ruan, he felt completely screwed.
"Oh?" Xie Shuyu smiled faintly. "Then do you have anything you’d like to say to me?"
When they sat down earlier, Tang Song hesitated for a moment before ultimately choosing to sit beside Wen Ruan.
That decision made Xie Shuyu’s heart sink completely.
It proved that in Tang Song’s mind, he leaned more toward Wen Ruan.
She had lost.
For Xie Shuyu, that was the most unbearable part.To build her business empire from scratch, she had always been filled with strong ambition and unshakable confidence.
Tang Song licked his lips, his throat feeling a little dry under her gaze. "I completely agree with your ideas on product innovation and differentiation. The R&D department not only needs to be established, but also requires additional investment."
"Heh." Xie Shuyu crossed her long legs, her bright eyes sharp as she stared at her boyfriend. "President Lin from Deju Renhe is already helping us recruit the R&D team. We should have results next week. I need you to accompany me to interview the candidates."
"Mm, no problem." Tang Song immediately nodded, flashing a gentle smile at Xie Shuyu.
She remained unfazed, her fingertips tapping lightly against the table. "Speaking of which, you are now the major shareholder of Shimmer Coffee. If you have time, I hope you can pay more attention to our company."
"Understood, Sister Shuyu. I’m sorry for neglecting it before." Tang Song responded sincerely.
Of course, he understood the underlying message in her words.
Recently, aside from working with Deju Renhe to restructure the organization, Xie Shuyu had also been on business trips to Shanghai and Beijing.
As her boyfriend, his concern had indeed been lacking.
Hearing his response, Xie Shuyu finally felt a little better and let out a soft "Mm."
Under the table, Wen Ruan nudged Tang Song’s leg with her foot.
Good lord.
So this bastard is actually this careful and respectful when dealing with Xie Shuyu?!
And with me, it’s just full-on aggression?!
Even making me take the blame for him?!
First Su Yu. Then Liu Qingning. Not to mention Xu Qing.
Enough is enough!
Biting her plump lips, Wen Ruan smiled and said, "President Xie, Tang Song is actually a very attentive person. If he neglected you, it must be because he was too busy with work. I hope you can be understanding."
As she spoke, she patted Tang Song’s shoulder lightly and gazed at him with undisguised affection.
Across from them, Xie Shuyu took a deep breath, trying to maintain her composure. "Is that so, Xiao Song? It seems I haven’t been caring enough about you."
Her choice of address had subtly shifted.
Being stared at by two mature women at the same time, Tang Song felt his temples throbbing, as if countless tiny needles were pricking his nerves.
At that moment, a waiter in a brown uniform approached with a tray.
"President Xie, your coffee is ready."
The gentle voice instantly shattered the tense atmosphere.
Tang Song immediately stood up, taking the coffee and placing it in front of both women, even thoughtfully setting napkins by their hands.
Once seated again, Tang Song spoke softly. "Sister Shuyu, since the three of us are here together today, why don’t we discuss Shimmer Coffee’s upcoming brand development and marketing strategies?"
After overcoming his initial panic and guilt, Tang Song gradually adjusted his mindset.
Since he had chosen to be a scumbag, he naturally had to face the consequences and deal with these situations.
Besides, he knew very well that in Xie Shuyu’s world, business always took priority over personal matters.
So, he steered the conversation toward work.
As for Wen Ruan… he’d have to make it up to her later.
Xie Shuyu nodded, took a sip of her coffee, and began discussing advertising strategies for their upcoming flagship stores in other cities.
In this era of internet marketing, leveraging Xingyun International Group’s network allowed Light & Shadow Media to directly collaborate with local social media influencers.
This was critical for establishing Shimmer Coffee in new markets.
She actually didn’t want conflict with Wen Ruan, fearing that their relationship might lead to actions that would harm the company.
Her aggressive behavior earlier was simply because she was emotionally upset.
At the end of the day, she was just human.
She couldn’t always remain perfectly composed.
—
"Ding—"
Her phone buzzed.
Wen Ruan glanced at the screen, then instinctively squeezed her thighs together.
[Tang Song: "Don’t be mad, Ruanruan. Why don’t you go to the bathroom first? I’ll explain everything to you later—in person."]
Seeing those last two words, "in person," Wen Ruan swallowed.
Oh, you little brat!
Trying to bribe me, huh?!
Do you think I, Zhuangzhuang, am that easy?!
Her gaze drifted to Tang Song’s lips.
She typed her reply.
["Three times."]
[Tang Song: "Deal."]
Wen Ruan’s heart skipped a beat, her full chest rising and falling.
She had personally experienced just how skilled his mouth could be.
She wouldn’t survive it.
Absolutely wouldn’t.
"You two chat. I’ll go to the restroom." Wen Ruan announced before getting up and walking away.
—
As soon as she left, Tang Song let out a deep sigh of relief.
Without hesitation, he reached out and held Xie Shuyu’s hand on the table. "I’m sorry, Sister Shuyu."
Xie Shuyu was silent for a moment before speaking in a low voice. "This is your right. I told you before—I wouldn’t interfere, and I wouldn’t let it affect our business."
"But..." Tang Song shamelessly added, "my feelings for you are real and unwavering. I care about you deeply."
Xie Shuyu raised an eyebrow, then unexpectedly chuckled. "Are you trying to comfort me? Do you think I’m the type of girl who likes sweet talk?" Thᴇ link to the origɪn of this information rᴇsts ɪn novel•fire.net
She had been in the business world for years.
She had seen it all.
Flattery didn’t move her.
Seeing Tang Song use cheesy couple tactics on her felt almost ridiculous.
Tang Song’s thumb gently stroked her wrist, his gaze deep and sincere.
"Sister Shuyu, I’ve always admired you. Your intelligence, your resilience, your confidence, your authenticity—they make me utterly captivated by you..."
His voice, magnetic and rich, paired with his "Heartthrob’s Eye Drops" enhanced gaze, hit Xie Shuyu like a truck.
Her lips parted slightly, and a soft blush crept across her face.
For some reason, she felt an unfamiliar fluttering in her chest.
After a long pause, Tang Song finally stopped talking.
"You smooth talker," Xie Shuyu muttered under her breath.
She exchanged her coffee with his.
"This is our new seasonal special—‘Autumn Whisper.’ It’s our flagship product this season. Try it."
"Alright." Tang Song let out a relieved smile.
Lifting the cup, he deliberately sipped from the spot where her lipstick had left a mark.
The taste was rich, slightly sweet—absolutely perfect.
Tang Song and Xie Shuyu casually chatted about the new product’s flavor and sales performance when a smooth, magnetic voice suddenly interrupted.
"Shuyu, we’re here. Long time no see, Tang Song. Didn’t expect to run into you as well."
Tang Song turned and saw two figures approaching.
One was wearing a form-fitting dress, her figure voluptuous and mature, exuding a gentle and intellectual aura.
The other was dressed in a long-sleeved T-shirt and jeans, her curves youthful and fresh, radiating an innocent charm.
The contrast between them was striking.
Seeing Jiang Yourong and Qian Lele suddenly appear, Tang Song felt his temple twitch.
Why are there so many "coincidental encounters" today?
He had just barely managed to settle things with Wen Ruan and Xie Shuyu, and now more people had arrived.
Although nothing had happened between him and Qian Lele, there was some mutual affection.
And then there was Professor Jiang—formerly Secretary Jin’s assistant— with whom he had shared some ambiguous moments.
If Wen Ruan came back right now…
Damn, they could just play mahjong at this point.
For the first time dealing with such a battlefield, his head throbbed.
"Yourong, Lele." Xie Shuyu nodded calmly toward them.
Taking a deep breath, Tang Song forced a smile. "Good afternoon, Sister Yourong, Lele."
Jiang Yourong pressed her lips together in a soft smile, her bright peach blossom eyes studying him with interest.
The university semester had just begun, making this her busiest period.
But she had still kept an eye on the developments between Xie Shuyu and Tang Song.
For example, their confirmed relationship.
And more notably, Tang Song’s 40-million-yuan Series A investment, making him the largest shareholder of Shimmer Coffee, pushing the company’s post-investment valuation to 100 million yuan.
Her jealousy was hard to describe.
No one knew better than her just how lucky Xie Shuyu was.
This was Tang Song!
The same Tang Song who was closely connected to Jin Meixiao!
"Good afternoon, President Xie, Brother Song." Qian Lele, carrying a backpack, gave a small bow, her gaze evasive.
Tang Song looked at the modest Cinderella in front of him and spoke warmly. "It’s only been a few days, and you’ve already changed how you address me? Are we drifting apart?"
Qian Lele bit her lower lip, whispering softly, "I’m sorry… gege."
"Haha, don’t be nervous, I was just teasing." Tang Song stood up, ruffling her hair lightly. "What brings you to Zhengding Ancient City?"
Qian Lele’s face instantly flushed, her voice quiet. "No classes today. Professor Jiang brought me here to meet with President Xie."
Jiang Yourong glanced at Tang Song, then at Qian Lele, her expression turning a bit strange.
She knew her student too well.
And Qian Lele wasn’t the type to hide her emotions.
With her experience and emotional intelligence, she could see everything clearly.
Jiang Yourong shifted her purse in front of her, smiling. "Shimmer Coffee has been expanding rapidly. Since your tech department isn’t fully established yet, Shuyu outsourced some of the work to me. Consider it her way of looking out for this ‘poor professor.’ I brought Lele along today to discuss project requirements."
As a PhD in Computer Science and a university associate professor, she was more than qualified for the task.
"I see." Tang Song nodded, then casually explained to Xie Shuyu. "I stayed at the faculty apartments for half a month before, so Lele and I became good friends."
"Mm." Xie Shuyu’s gaze flickered as she examined Qian Lele carefully for the first time.
Feeling her scrutiny, Qian Lele instinctively straightened her posture, her body slightly trembling.
Tang Song moved closer to her, asking about her studies and part-time job.
Qian Lele answered softly, her face filled with nervousness and restraint.
She and Professor Jiang had actually arrived earlier.
And they had seen it—Tang Song holding Xie Shuyu’s hand, exchanging coffee.
The implications were clear.
She was an intelligent girl with a realistic understanding of her place.
That’s why she had tried to shift her feelings toward Tang Song into pure friendship.
But that Qixi Festival night, the kiss they shared had completely shattered that effort.
For the past few weeks, she had often spaced out, even dreamed about it, her mind replaying that moment over and over.
Now, standing in front of Xie Shuyu and Tang Song, she felt like a thief who had been caught.
Suddenly, Jiang Yourong spoke. "By the way, Tang Song, if I remember correctly, you’re involved in fashion e-commerce now, right?"
"Mm." Tang Song nodded, turning his attention to Professor Jiang.
She smiled elegantly. "A friend of mine from my PhD days co-founded a tech company after graduation.
They specialize in AI-driven SaaS solutions for the fashion industry, using cutting-edge tech to help businesses and designers predict trends and enhance creativity.
They’re a rising star in the field, and their technology just hit a major breakthrough.
Honestly, I think they have the potential to become a unicorn. Want to consider a collaboration?"
Jiang Yourong had never given up on staying connected with Tang Song.
She had quietly investigated his business activities and knew his primary focus was on Songmei Fashion.
So she kept a close eye on relevant industry news.
By recommending this company, she was also creating opportunities to engage with him further.
Hearing the word "unicorn," Tang Song’s mind stirred.
His Phase 3 Growth Plan Task had one major difficulty—
Investing in three potential unicorn startups.
Although there were plenty of companies with unicorn potential, most of them had already entered the venture capital ecosystem.
Investment firms were scrambling to fund them, meaning they weren’t short on money.
Finding one that was still in the early or mid-stages was incredibly difficult.
And since this company was focused on fashion and AI, investing in it could help him complete additional tasks.
After a moment of thought, Tang Song asked, "Sister Yourong, is this company currently seeking investment?"
Jiang Yourong hesitated briefly before replying. "Their growth has been smooth. They completed a $10 million Series B round last year and are currently planning a B+ round."
Tang Song’s eyes lit up. "I’m very interested. Send me their details when you have time."
Jiang Yourong immediately understood.
A delighted gleam flashed in her eyes. "Of course. I’ll organize the information, and we’ll discuss it in detail later."
"Great. Thanks, Sister Yourong."
She was about to say more when—
A tall, curvy figure suddenly walked up and stood intimately next to Tang Song.
Clad in a skin-tight cycling suit, looking sensual and charming.
"I’m back." Wen Ruan beamed, looking at Tang Song. "More friends?"
Her gaze swept toward Jiang Yourong and Qian Lele.
"Mm." Tang Song let out an awkward laugh and introduced them. "This is Professor Jiang Yourong from Yan City Normal University, and this is Qian Lele."
Qian Lele’s mouth felt dry, staring blankly at the woman who had suddenly appeared.
"Nice to meet you both, I’m Wen Ruan." She smiled and waved, her demeanor warm and friendly.
"Hello." Jiang Yourong responded calmly.
"H-Hello." Qian Lele lowered her head slightly, looking visibly flustered.
Noticing her discomfort, Tang Song opened his mouth but ultimately said nothing.
This was fine.
He had already told her—he wanted her to see his true self.
And to the innocent Cinderella standing before him, he did harbor feelings of admiration.
But he also knew—
She had fallen for the ‘Scholar Tang Song’ who once shared a home with her.
Maybe once she saw his true nature, the feelings budding in her heart would slowly wither away.
The group exchanged a few polite words, but the atmosphere remained strangely tense.
Tang Song took a deep breath and said, "Sister Shuyu, we won’t interrupt your work any longer. Wen Ruan and I will continue exploring the ancient city."
Xie Shuyu pressed her lips together. "Mm, stay safe on the way."
Tang Song turned to Qian Lele and Jiang Yourong. "Lele, Sister Yourong, we’ll be heading off. Bye-bye."
Wen Ruan gave Xie Shuyu a playful hug. "President Xie, I’m still waiting for that dinner you promised me. Don’t forget to invite me sometime. Oh, and don’t overwork yourself."
"Mm, thanks for your concern." Xie Shuyu exchanged a complicated glance with her.
"Bye-bye." "Bye-bye."
Through the café’s bright glass window, Qian Lele watched as Tang Song reached for Wen Ruan’s hand.
The sight before her sent shockwaves through her heart.
President Xie… Wen Ruan…
They and Tang Song-gege…
How could this be? This… shouldn’t be possible!
—
Walking along the ancient city's stone-paved streets, Wen Ruan suddenly leaned in and bit Tang Song’s jaw.
"Hiss—" Tang Song sucked in a breath, rubbing his face. "Still mad?"
Wen Ruan huffed and pinched his arm. "Listen up—three times, no less. Whenever I ask, you deliver on the spot."
"No problem. I guarantee satisfaction, big sis!" Tang Song agreed without hesitation.
Today was supposed to be a leisurely cycling trip with Wen Ruan, but after everything that happened, he felt incredibly guilty.
And at the café earlier, Wen Ruan had been remarkably understanding, keeping the situation from escalating into full-blown chaos.
She had even extended goodwill toward Xie Shuyu in the end.
"Haha, guilty conscience, huh? That’s why you’re being so obedient now?" Wen Ruan bit his earlobe, whispering. "What if I demand it in the office?"
Tang Song’s eyelid twitched. "That… might not be appropriate?"
"I think it’s a great idea." Wen Ruan laughed, hugging his arm as they strolled forward, continuing to tease him.
—
In the afternoon, the two of them continued cycling along the riverside greenway.
On both sides of the river, the pink muhly grass had begun turning red, blending with the surrounding flora into a layered, picturesque autumn landscape.
The quiet poetry of the season wrapped around them.
When they got tired, they stopped at the Hutuo River Art & Ecology Island to play AR battle royale and go-kart racing.
—
On the way back, they cycled slowly.
By the time they returned to the riverside parking area, the sky had already darkened.
After securing the road bikes to the car roof and tidying up the trunk, Wen Ruan handed over the keys to Tang Song.
Curling up in the passenger seat, she tapped her fingers lightly against the window and smiled. "Did you have fun today?"
Tang Song fastened his seatbelt, leaned back against the sport seat, and looked at her. "Of course."
Wen Ruan blinked, her hand sliding onto his lower abdomen. "Want to have even more fun?"
Tang Song’s eyes lit up. "Yes!"
"Drive, then. I’ll navigate."
"Vroom—" The engine roared to life as the Audi RS6 accelerated onto the road.
A few minutes later, the car turned onto a secluded road and came to a stop beneath the trees.
—
The two slipped into the backseat and locked the windows.
In the darkness, a soft "sshhh" was heard—the zipper of a tight cycling jacket being pulled down.
The snow-white, high-rise base layer beneath bounced free.
A ponytail was loosened, and long, cascading curls tumbled down like a waterfall.
Tang Song brushed aside Wen Ruan’s sweat-dampened bangs, his fingertips glistening with starlight and autumn dew.
Wen Ruan’s heart trembled violently. "Warning—continuous sharp turns ahead. Sudden deceleration may cause accidents."
"Turn it off." Tang Song ripped open his collar. "I have my own navigation system."
The night flowed in silence, leaves drifting and swaying in the darkness.
Tang Song leaned against the seat, watching the statuesque silhouette before him, his mind spiraling into a heady haze.
—
"Ding!"
A clear system notification sound rang in his ears.
"Congratulations, player. Partner - Zhao Yaqian’s Growth Plan Task ‘Exquisite Canary’ has been completed."
"Partner - Zhao Yaqian's Growth Progress +10%."
"Partner - Zhao Yaqian has gained +1 Constitution."
"Partner - Zhao Yaqian has gained +2 Endurance."
"Partner - Zhao Yaqian has gained +2 Agility."
"Partner - Zhao Yaqian has received ‘Canary’s Item Pack 1’."
"Shua!" A system interface automatically expanded before him.
[On September 9, 2023, under your guidance and support, ‘Zhao Yaqian’ has exceeded 60% growth progress, reaching a qualifying standard.]
[Throughout her growth, ‘Zhao Yaqian’ has received emotional care and companionship from her partner. Her body and mind have remained exceptionally healthy, and her love for you is overwhelming, passionate, and unwavering.]
[You have received ‘Partner - Zhao Yaqian’s’ heartfelt response: Charm +1, Endurance +2.]
Tang Song’s thoughts quickly refocused, a strong sense of satisfaction flashing in his eyes.
Qianqian’s task was finally complete!
Not only did he gain a +1 Charm boost, but also an Endurance buff.
At the same time, both of his existing partners had reached the qualifying threshold.
Which meant—
He had unlocked a new partner slot!
His Charm stat had been growing increasingly slow, and it was clear that future gains would rely heavily on his partners.
He couldn’t afford to take this lightly.
—
"Hey!"
A sultry, irritated voice whispered beside his ear.
"Little boy, don’t tell me you’re already out of energy?"
"Just don’t cry later." Tang Song exhaled, gripping her firm waist.
"Try me if you dare."
Laughter, as rich as a September breeze, rippled through the enclosed space, stirring the heart.
Tang Song caressed the taut muscles along her back, his mind suddenly flickering through a series of names.
Liu Qingning. Lin Muxue. Xu Qing. Xie Shuyu. Tian Jing...
Who should be next?