novelraw Chapter 445: What Big Scene Haven’t I Seen?
Chapter 445: What Big Scene Haven’t I Seen?
Van Cleef & Arpels Concept Store, Jewelry Technology Appreciation Event.
The dazzling lights intertwined with the neon outside, creating a dreamlike and luxurious atmosphere.
Inside the exhibition hall, a gemstone-encrusted necklace sparkled under the lights.
"This necklace utilizes our brand's signature invisible setting technique. The gemstones are arranged seamlessly, with no visible metal prongs, presenting an exquisite interplay of light and shadow..."
Anna, a jewelry consultant from headquarters, wore a well-tailored uniform, her smile warm and her voice gentle as she introduced the exhibit in detail.
"Ms. Zhao, if you're interested in this piece, I can take it out for you to admire up close." Anna bowed slightly, her tone respectful and composed.
"No need, thank you." Zhao Yaqian shook her head politely, a bright smile on her face.
Her gaze wandered around the exhibition hall, a touch of curiosity and admiration in her expression.
Anna nodded slightly, maintaining a professional and gentle demeanor as she followed closely behind her.
Zhao Yaqian seemed accustomed to this and continued strolling through the exhibition hall, experiencing the unique charm of this high-profile jewelry showcase.This Van Cleef & Arpels exhibition in Yan City was of the highest standard, exclusive to VCA Heritage Club members who had spent at least 800,000 yuan within a single year.
Currently, she wasn’t at that level yet.
However, with the support of Slover Trust, that wasn’t a problem.
Not only was she able to bring her best friend, Lin Muxue, along, but she also received top-tier treatment.
Attending such events wasn’t just about refining her social etiquette and artistic appreciation—it was also a step toward integrating into a higher social circle.
"Qianqian." A warm, clear voice came from behind her.
Zhao Yaqian turned around to see Lin Muxue raising a champagne glass and waving at her.
She nodded slightly to Anna before turning toward Lin Muxue.
Unlike her, Xiao Xue thrived in social settings. From the moment she entered the Van Cleef & Arpels concept store, she was in her element—not only taking photos and checking in but also engaging in lively conversations with jewelry experts and fashion elites.
Zhao Yaqian admired that, though her own personality made it difficult to be as naturally sociable.
"Come, Qianqian, let me introduce you to a new friend." Lin Muxue set down her champagne and affectionately linked arms with Zhao Yaqian, then gestured toward an elegant short-haired woman across from them. "This is Qin Hua, Miss Qin. And this is my best friend, a supervisor and shareholder of Isha Beauty, Zhao Yaqian."
Zhao Yaqian smiled and extended her right hand. "Hello, Miss Qin."
"Hello, Qianqian, nice to meet you."
Qin Hua shook her hand politely, her eyes carrying a hint of curiosity.
Lin Muxue added, "Miss Qin is also a member of Isha Beauty—she even has a Diamond Card membership."
Zhao Yaqian’s eyes curved in a genuine smile. "Thank you, Miss Qin, for supporting Isha Beauty."
Qin Hua smiled, exchanging pleasantries while discreetly sizing up Zhao Yaqian.
Her first impression: "She's really tall." Barefoot, she was close to 180 cm—practically model height.
Her features were striking, though her eyes still held a youthful innocence, making her look just over twenty.
But what intrigued Qin Hua more was Zhao Yaqian’s identity.
Isha Beauty was a well-known local chain, having just secured funding and expanding into the high-end aesthetic medicine sector.
For someone as young as Zhao Yaqian to be a shareholder, she had to have some serious backing.
Yet, as a longtime member of the local elite, Qin Hua had never heard of her before.
Either she was an outsider, or... someone’s carefully groomed "canary."
The three of them chatted about luxury goods and jewelry craftsmanship.
Zhao Yaqian made a conscious effort to integrate into the conversation, maintaining a poised demeanor and articulate speech.
Amid the laughter, a sudden clarity struck her mind, and she couldn’t help but let out a soft sigh.
Her whole body felt incredibly light and comfortable, as if she had just taken a seaweed bath and had a full-body spa treatment.
"What’s wrong, Qianqian?" Lin Muxue noticed her shift and asked with concern.
"Nothing, nothing." Zhao Yaqian smiled slightly, masking the inner ripple of emotions.
Just then, Qin Hua’s phone rang.
She opened her handbag, glanced at the caller ID, and quickly answered. "Hey, Xiaojing, why are you suddenly calling me?"
"Mm, I’m still at the event, just finished the experience section."
"Okay, okay, I’ll get it for you." Qin Hua sighed. "Not even a little something for me? You’re only thinking about your boyfriend, huh?"
"Alright, enough, I’ll let the sales consultant know later."
"Mm, bye."
After hanging up, Qin Hua explained with a helpless smile, "One of my childhood besties. She heard I was at the Van Cleef & Arpels event and asked me to buy her a new ring. She wants to gift it to her boyfriend. Total love-struck fool."
Lin Muxue chuckled and made a casual remark.
Hearing the words "gift for a boyfriend," Zhao Yaqian was immediately intrigued.
A mental image of Tang Song’s slender fingers surfaced in her mind. If she gave him a ring, it would definitely suit him—and it would carry special meaning.
So, she asked Qin Hua which ring it was and suggested they take a look together.
In the end, both of them purchased the platinum ring.
—
Bright lights illuminated the quiet street.
Tires rolled over the asphalt as a sleek black Audi RS6 slowly pulled into Shengyuan Scenic Residence and came to a stop beneath Building No. 6.
"Zhuangzhuang, we’re home."
Wen Ruan stretched lazily, got out of the car, brushed a strand of hair from her lips, and the flush on her cheeks still hadn’t completely faded.
It was her first time trying an outdoor play like this. Honestly, it made her even more nervous and excited than Tang Song.
Though the whole experience wasn’t long, it had completely worn her out. Her legs were still weak.
She glanced at Tang Song in front of her, then directly threw her arms around his neck and whined, "Carry me inside. It’s all your fault for changing speeds so much while driving—I have no strength left."
"Let’s go."
Tang Song kissed her lightly before effortlessly scooping her up and striding toward the villa. Latest content published on novelFɪre.net
"You monster, how do you have such insane stamina?" Wen Ruan muttered, resting her head against his chest, listening to his heartbeat.
Honestly, she wasn’t too bothered by Xie Shuyu. Her exaggerated reaction earlier was mostly to make Tang Song feel guilty and spoil her more.
She was a smart woman—she knew exactly how to win a man’s heart.
Back in the master bedroom, Tang Song placed Wen Ruan on the bed to rest.
Then, he headed straight to the bathroom, filling the bathtub.
Turning on the massage jets, he sank into the water, instantly relaxing.
"! "
A system interface appeared before his eyes.
First, he checked his personal stats.
【Player: Tang Song (74 Charm)】
【Role: President of Songmei Fashion】
【Height: 184CM, Weight: 80KG】
【Constitution: 74, Stamina: 78, Agility: 69, Intelligence: 83】
【Asset Status:】
Balance: 103 million yuan (Investment Fund: 504.5 million yuan)
....
With the blessings from her beautician friends, his charm successfully reached 74, and his stamina increased to 78 points.
Entering the 【Companion】 module.
Two prominent notifications immediately popped up.
【Based on the current system permissions and companion progress, the "Companion" module has been updated】
【You have obtained 2 new companion slots】
Just as he expected—two additional slots were unlocked.
Originally, once charm surpassed 70, its growth was supposed to slow down significantly.
However, since Wen Ruan and Zhao Yaqian’s growth rates had both reached 60%, he had suddenly gained 2 extra charm points.
This further reinforced his understanding of the importance of companions.
It also made him more cautious in selecting his next choices.
【Available Companion List:】
【Lin Muxue】【Progress: Couple, Deep Liquid Exchange】【Buffs: Eye Enhancement, Elevated Emotions, Posture Optimization, Facial Expression Management】
【Xu Qing】【Progress: Couple, Deep Liquid Exchange】【Buffs: Inspiration Surge, Acting Enhancement, Thought Expansion, Energy Boost】
In addition, the reserve companion list included: Liu Qingning, Tian Jing, Gao Mengting, Xie Shuyu, and Su Yu.
All were women he had interacted with before.
A companion’s growth would feed back into his charm and attribute points.
Following this logic, 【Xie Shuyu】 and 【Liu Qingning】 were actually the best choices.
One was an up-and-coming female CEO—rational, sharp, mature, and experienced.
The other was a top-tier academic who now worked at Qingning Technology, exposed to high-level connections and possessing exceptional overall qualities.
If the system cultivated them properly, they could both become valuable additions, allowing him to unlock even more slots.
Unfortunately, their progress wasn’t quite there yet.
As for Liu Qingning, his white moonlight, their complicated history meant he didn’t want to force or manipulate anything.
Xie Shuyu, on the other hand, was a more straightforward case—there were no emotional entanglements. As long as he put in the effort and took his time, things would naturally fall into place soon.
Aside from them, 【Lin Muxue】 was also a strong candidate.
Under his guidance, Xiao Xue had become the executive assistant of Confluent Capital. Her personal development had skyrocketed—she was no longer the fake heiress she once was.
Her growth rate had to be considerable.
However, Tang Song hesitated because of the 【Low Whispers of Humanity】 artifact.
Xiao Xue had a unique trait that frequently triggered major tasks, making her an unpredictable asset.
As for Xu Qing, she had the lowest growth rate.
With his current power and status, he could personally nurture her, gradually handing over the short drama business and film base operations.
Later, when more slots became available, he could bind her then.
This would allow him to maximize the 【Companion】 system and boost his charm most efficiently.
After contemplating for a while, Tang Song decided not to make a rash decision.
He would wait for Xiao Xue's 【Perception of Humanity】 task to be completed and check on Liu Qingning and Xie Shuyu’s progress before proceeding.
Tang Song quickly cleared his thoughts and focused back on the 【Companion】 module.
In the center of Zhao Yaqian’s portrait card, a golden gift pack floated quietly.
He selected 【Canary’s Item Pack】 and opened it immediately.
“Ding! 【Companion - Zhao Yaqian】 has received the rare reward 【Phantom Elegance】.”
【Phantom Elegance】: A bottle of mystical perfume. After use, it will gradually merge with Zhao Yaqian’s natural scent, optimizing her pheromone secretion to emit a unique and alluring fragrance.
【Note: The scent will subtly change based on her emotional state, enhancing her social interactions and pleasing her companion.】
A truly unique item—it could actually make a beautician develop a natural fragrance!
And it could change according to emotional states.
Beyond social benefits, this was practically a basketball cheat code—drastically improving the experience.
If he teamed up with Xiao Xue for some multiplayer basketball, one releasing fragrance, the other drawing maps...
The thought alone made him shiver with excitement.
Tang Song licked his lips, clicked on the portrait card, and checked the companion details.
【Companion: Zhao Yaqian (19 years old)】
【Role: Canary (Isha Beauty - Supervisor)】
【Height: 180CM, Weight: 64KG】
【Physique: 69, Stamina: 70, Agility: 60, Intelligence: 60】
【Growth Progress: 65%】
【Development Plan Task: Canary’s Soaring】
【Task Objective: After going through initial growth and transformation, Zhao Yaqian has evolved from a dependent "canary" into an individual with financial stability, comfortable living conditions, a budding career, and a refined personal image. Now, she must strengthen her self-awareness and confidence, clarify her inner desires, and achieve self-actualization in both love and career.】
【Task Rewards: +20% Growth Progress, +2 Intelligence, 1x Canary’s Glory Gift Pack】
【Task Progress: Incomplete】
【Note 1: Since "Companion - Zhao Yaqian" has surpassed 60% growth progress, her personal information has been shared with other game characters.】
【Note 2: A canary soaring through the sky will encounter various trials and malice. Please provide your companion with extra care and support.】
All four core attributes had reached a satisfactory level—already better than most ordinary people.
【Development Plan Task 6】 would instantly grant 20% growth progress—a massive leap.
But it also meant that this task wouldn’t be easy.
At just 19 years old, even with her significant growth, she was still far from mature.
She didn’t yet have a clear understanding of herself or her future.
She had been following his plans, climbing upward step by step.
Now, reaching self-actualization would be a serious challenge.
But it was a necessary step in her journey.
Hopefully, his beautician friend would continue to improve!
8:50 PM
The Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Appreciation Event concluded successfully.
Under the guidance of the staff, guests began leaving the venue.
Zhao Yaqian draped a shawl over her shoulders, picked up her Hermès Birkin, and walked toward the elevator with Lin Muxue.
Along the way, they once again spotted Qin Hua, who was waiting at the elevator entrance.
Lin Muxue whispered, "I asked a friend earlier—Qin Hua is a well-known rich second-generation in Yan City. She currently works as an administrative supervisor in the Zhongcheng Group’s President’s Office."
Then, Lin Muxue shared some details about Zhongcheng Group.
Founded in 1998, it had three main sectors: food & beverage, textiles, and real estate, with over 3,000 employees.
Although the real estate downturn had forced the company to downsize, it still held significant influence within the province.
Qin Hua’s father was a shareholder of Zhongcheng Group.
She was, without a doubt, a textbook example of a local elite white-rich beauty.
Far superior to Lin Muxue’s former socialite friends like Li Yujiao and Zhang Xi.
That was precisely why she took the initiative to connect with her—and why she introduced her to Zhao Yaqian.
The two chatted as they stepped into the elevator.
Lin Muxue smiled gracefully. "Hello, Qin Hua, fancy meeting you again."
"Muxue, Qianqian." Qin Hua greeted them politely.
The three exchanged small talk as the elevator ascended to B2.
Zhao Yaqian warmly offered, "By the way, Qin Hua, next time you visit Isha Beauty, let me know. I can recommend a few great treatments for you."
"Thank you, Qianqian." Qin Hua nodded with a smile.
Just as the three stepped out of the elevator—
A figure approached quickly, calling out in a clear voice, "Manager Qin!"
Zhao Yaqian and Lin Muxue looked up to see a young man, around 25 or 26 years old.
Tall and lean, strikingly handsome, with a bright and sunny smile. He wore a trendy casual outfit and had a clean, fresh aura—like a K-drama heartthrob.
Qin Hua gave him a calm nod and offered a brief introduction. "This is my colleague, Gao Junfeng. He came to pick me up."
"Hello." "Hello."
"Good evening, ladies."
Gao Junfeng discreetly glanced at Lin Muxue and Zhao Yaqian, and his heart immediately raced.
Their looks, their figures, their outfits, their vibes—utterly stunning.
Even more striking than Qin Hua, the recognized elite beauty.
Especially the one in the casual suit—her aura was cold and untouchable, like a high mountain flower. It evoked both awe and an overwhelming desire to conquer.
Qin Hua checked the time on her wrist and smiled. "Muxue, Qianqian, I’ll be off now. Let’s meet up again soon. Byebye."
"Byebye."
After exchanging farewells, Qin Hua and Gao Junfeng walked toward a lavender Bentley Continental.
Gao Junfeng courteously opened the passenger door for her before getting into the driver’s seat himself.
The engine roared to life, and the car slowly pulled away.
Inside the fragrance-filled cabin—
Gao Junfeng carefully steered, speaking in a low voice. "Manager Qin, the traffic accident with your car—I've already coordinated with the insurance company. Next is the repairs. Since there was scraping, the entire rear fender needs replacement."
Qin Hua leaned back in her seat, replying as she scrolled through WeChat messages. "Mm, okay. Thanks for handling it."
"What about your car..."
"You can use it for now. Just return it after the repairs are done."
"Really? No problem at all!" Gao Junfeng’s eyes instantly lit up.
As Assistant to Vice President Su Ping, he officially belonged to Administrative Management.
His duties included supporting senior executives—the President and Vice Presidents—with scheduling, meetings, and document management.
And Qin Hua was the Head of Administration in the Zhongcheng Group’s President’s Office—his direct supervisor.
When he found out that her father, Qin Dechang, was a shareholder in Zhongcheng Group, he immediately set his sights on her.
Frequent interactions, constant flattery—
With his Master’s degree, a Vice President’s assistant position, and his exceptional looks, he was 100% confident in himself.
And in fact, these advantages had already brought him closest to Qin Hua among their colleagues.
For instance, after her accident, she immediately called him to handle it.
Now, she was letting him drive her car freely.
Wasn’t this a clear sign of favor?
Qin Hua put away her phone and suddenly asked, "By the way, Junfeng, is President Su still dealing with the Zhongyun Dairy situation? Any updates?"
Gao Junfeng responded quickly. "Yes, online backlash has been intense. Both President Su and Tian Tong are completely overwhelmed."
"Let’s hope it gets resolved smoothly..." Qin Hua pursed her lips, her eyes flickering with thought.
The food & beverage sector accounted for 60% of the group’s revenue, and Zhongyun Dairy was the core of that division.
But a batch of fresh milk had tested positive for antibiotic residue,
And then an investigation exposed that the Baosheng factory had falsified water quality reports and workers failed to follow disinfection protocols.
The public outrage was massive, severely damaging the company’s reputation.
As head of the food & beverage division, Su Ping had to take responsibility.
And as an executive director, Tian Chengye was also dragged into the crisis.
The entire company was a mess.
On top of that—rumor had it that Tian Chengye’s investment in a New Energy Tech company had gone south due to a failed technology route.
And yet, her bestie Xiao Jing wasn’t even concerned.
Her father’s company was losing huge amounts of money—and she couldn’t care less.
Not to mention, she had an ambitious cousin, Tian Guowen, eyeing their family assets.
With Xiao Jing’s attitude, something was bound to go wrong sooner or later.
Qin Hua had warned her countless times, but it was completely useless.
And now, she was focused on buying a gift for her boyfriend?
Love-brain is a disease.
Bright lights swept across the street.
A matte gray Porsche 911 cruised along the road.
"How’s my driving, Xiao Xue?"
Zhao Yaqian’s eyes gleamed, her body almost glued to the steering wheel.
"It’s good—just a bit tense."
"Well, this is your baby. Of course, I have to be extra careful!"
Lin Muxue covered her mouth with a giggle. "So, when are you getting your own car? You’ve got plenty saved up now—practically a little rich lady!"
"Hehe." Zhao Yaqian blushed and mumbled playfully, "It’s all from Brother Song."
"Speaking of which, Tang Song’s driving skills have improved a lot. Last time, he completely wore me out. Be honest, Qianqian—do you two train in private? What positions have you used? Let’s exchange tips!"
"Not telling. That’s a secret."
The moment Tang Song was mentioned, the atmosphere in the car instantly lightened.
As they passed through an old district, Lin Muxue suddenly rubbed her belly and laughed. "We were too busy chatting earlier—I barely ate. Want to grab some BBQ?"
"Yes! I’m starving!" Zhao Yaqian’s eyes lit up. "Same place as last time, right?"
"Yep, I’ll set the navigation. It’s right nearby."
A few minutes later.
The Porsche 911 pulled into a parking spot along the street.
The moment they opened the doors, the rich aroma of grilled meat filled the air.
The sizzle of oil, the shouts of the owner, the rising smoke from the grills—
"Boss, good evening!"
"Xiao Xue, you’re here? Come sit over here! What do you ladies want?"
"Ten lamb skewers, extra spicy. Ten beef skewers too…"
And just like that—
Two elite rich beauties, draped in luxury brands, sat down at a tiny street stall.
Under the cool night breeze, chatting, skewering meat, and sipping soda.
Their presence didn’t go unnoticed.
Several people raised their phones, capturing the scene.
One of them even uploaded the footage online, giving it an exaggerated clickbait title.
"Bzzzz—"
Zhao Yaqian’s phone vibrated on the table.
【Shangguan Qiuya: "Ms. Zhao, it’s been a while since you got your driver’s license. Do you have a car you like?"】
Seeing this message, Zhao Yaqian’s eyes widened slightly.
Shangguan Qiuya was "Smile Sister’s" assistant—the original owner of her current apartment.
Asking her this question out of the blue… it could only mean that "Smile" wanted to give her a car.
What was she up to?
Thinking about their upcoming meeting before the Mid-Autumn Festival, Zhao Yaqian’s heart tensed up again.
Lin Muxue noticed and asked with concern, "What’s wrong, Qianqian?"
Looking at Xiao Xue sitting across from her, Zhao Yaqian hesitated for a moment before lowering her voice. "Xiao Xue, have you ever thought that… maybe Brother Song has an official girlfriend?"
Hearing this, Lin Muxue’s heart skipped a beat.
"Y-you... already know?"
Zhao Yaqian froze. "Uh… so you knew too?"
"Mm." Lin Muxue bit her lip. "Back when I was working at Slover Trust, I had heard about someone like that, but… I wasn’t completely sure."
She didn’t mention Su Yu’s name.
She loved her beautician friend, but she loved Tang Song even more.
As his assistant, she would never reveal any of his secrets without his permission.
Not to Wen Ruan, not to Xu Qing, and definitely not about Su Yu.
Zhao Yaqian let out a deep breath, finally feeling a bit calmer.
"Xiao Xue, that woman is coming to Yan City before the Mid-Autumn Festival to see me. Let’s meet her together, okay?"
"What?!"
Lin Muxue gasped, then quickly covered her mouth.
Holy sh*t!
Su Tian-di (Emperor Su) was coming to Yan City?!
After a moment, she looked at her pitiful beautician friend and—
"What’s there to be afraid of?!"
Clink!
The glass bottle collided against the table with a crisp sound, and bubbles surged wildly in the amber-colored liquid.
Lin Muxue gritted her teeth, stomped her foot, and raised the glass bottle fiercely.
"No problem! I’ll help you deal with her!"
She, Xiao Xue, was now a certified financial elite and Tang Song’s personal assistant.
What big scene hadn’t she seen?!