novelraw Chapter 461: Third Companion, Lin Muxue
Chapter 461: Third Companion, Lin Muxue
“Is that… Zheng Qiudong from Deju Renhe?”
“That’s him! I saw him at the summit hosted by Entrepreneur Magazine last month. I didn’t expect him to personally attend an exhibition like this.”
“Who’s that young man next to him?”
“No idea, but judging by their stance and positioning, he must be someone important.”
As murmurs spread, Zheng Qiudong’s identity quickly became widely recognized, drawing more and more attention.
As the leader of a top domestic consulting firm that started as a headhunting company, Zheng Qiudong had an extremely high-profile style.
Not only did he frequently participate in global and Asia-Pacific business forums and industry summits, but he also built his personal brand online, wrote books, and gave speeches. He was a true business elite.
He usually attended high-caliber events like WEF (Davos World Economic Forum), Boao, and WAIC.
Although his status might not be significantly higher than Sun Jun or Shangguan Qiuya, his presence and media coverage were undeniable, significantly boosting the exposure of this exhibition.
“Chairman Tang?!” Huashang Fashion’s executive assistant Feng Yashan gasped, his face full of disbelief.Wu Wei, standing in front of him, spoke in a low voice, “Yashan, don’t go spreading the word about my meeting with Chairman Tang before the event.”
Feng Yashan stiffened and immediately responded, “Understood, Mr. Wu. I won’t.”
After a moment of contemplation, Wu Wei added, “Also, regarding the due diligence team sent by Chairman Tang, provide them with as much financial data as possible, especially any transactions related to Global Tongtai.”
“This…” Feng Yashan glanced at Wu Wei’s serious expression, then nodded. “Got it.”
“Good.” Wu Wei gave a slight nod and looked in Tang Song’s direction.
By now, Shangguan Qiuya, Jiang Yanbin, and others had eagerly surrounded him, showing great enthusiasm.
This Chairman Tang was even more well-connected than he had imagined.
Since he had already decided to “switch sides,” he needed to prove his loyalty.
Huashang Fashion, a family-run apparel company with over twenty years of history under He Jingping’s control, had numerous financial issues, such as related-party transactions and profit transfers.
Global Tongtai, a Cayman Islands-registered overseas trading company, was one of Huashang Fashion’s high-end fabric suppliers and also a He family-controlled business.
As Shangguan Qiuya and the others approached Zheng Qiudong, the surrounding crowd instinctively parted, clearing a path.
As the distance closed, Sun Jun distinctly noticed Zheng Qiudong making a “please” gesture to the young man beside him.
That small detail immediately put him on high alert.
With over twenty years in politics, he could instantly tell this was no ordinary figure.
Lowering his voice, he said something to his secretary before quickly stepping forward.
Meanwhile, the event staff began moving slowly to wrap up order maintenance.
“Chairman Tang!”
Shangguan Qiuya slowed her steps, her face carrying a perfectly measured smile, though her eyes gleamed with excitement. “I didn’t expect you to attend in person.”
Her voice wasn’t loud and was easily lost in the noisy venue, heard only by those nearby.
But like a stone dropped into a calm lake, it sent ripples through the crowd.
Sun Jun’s pupils contracted slightly, his gaze locking onto Tang Song.
Other government officials and event organizers looked visibly stunned.
Then, Shangguan Qiuya extended her right hand, the Van Cleef & Arpels watch on her wrist catching the light.
“Hello, Assistant Shangguan.” Tang Song nodded slightly, shaking her hand with just the right amount of pressure—respectful but controlled.
On the surface, he remained as composed and calm as ever, not showing too much change.
The last time he had seen Shangguan Qiuya was seven years ago.
Back then, she was still following Secretary Jin, slightly inexperienced. Now, she exuded grace and confidence.
Shangguan Qiuya took a deep breath, withdrew her hand, and turned slightly to introduce, “Chairman Tang, this is Sun Jun, Director of the Yan Province Department of Commerce. Director Sun, this is Tang Song, CEO of Confluent Capital.”
Hearing this, Sun Jun’s eyes sparkled as he extended his hand. “Chairman Tang, welcome to the opening ceremony.”
Given his position, he naturally knew about Confluent Capital.
After all, the representative sent by Meigou this time, Jiang Yanbin, was an employee of this investment firm.
More importantly, Confluent Capital was backed by the Tang Jin Family Office.
“Director Sun, I’ve heard a lot about you.” Tang Song responded sincerely. “Yan City’s development in recent years is remarkable, and your contributions have been invaluable.”
Inside the VIP lounge, Zheng Qiudong had already briefed him on the key figures present, particularly Sun Jun, who had close ties with Ouyang.
“Hello, Director Sun, I’m Zheng Qiudong from Deju Renhe.”
“Hello, Chairman Zheng, it’s an honor. Your presence truly elevates our event.”
Under the dazzling lights, Wen Ruan stood quietly to the side, her gaze fixed intently on Tang Song.
The dark suit accentuated his tall, well-built frame, his youthful handsomeness, self-assurance, and composure making him devastatingly perfect.
Just as she was lost in her thoughts, Tang Song’s gaze landed on her.
He gave her a slow wink, the smile on his lips deepening.
Wen Ruan’s heartbeat skyrocketed. Her full red lips pressed together slightly, her eyes practically dripping with longing.
If this weren’t a formal occasion, she’d have dragged him into a room by now to “taste” this little man properly.
He was just too tempting, making her mouth dry with the urge to take a bite.
Click, click, click—
The sound of high heels tapping against the floor grew closer.
Lin Muxue approached quickly, her expression slightly tense, her voice lower than usual. “Chairman Tang.”
“Good morning, Xiaoxue.” Tang Song smiled and nodded, his tone gentle without adding much else.
Seeing that he wasn’t upset, Lin Muxue let out a long breath, her tense shoulders relaxing slightly.
She quietly stood beside Tang Song, but her gaze couldn’t help but flick toward Wen Ruan, a flicker of complicated emotions flashing through her eyes.
Their eyes met, and Wen Ruan curved her lips into a meaningful smile.
Every time she had seen Lin Muxue before, she was always the epitome of elegance, intellect, and composure.
This was the first time she had ever looked flustered.
That contrast… Wen Ruan found it extremely amusing.
“Hello, President Wen, I’m Zheng Qiudong.”
A warm, polite voice interrupted Wen Ruan’s thoughts.
She turned to see Zheng Qiudong smiling at her, his gaze carrying a hint of familiarity.
Wen Ruan blinked before quickly adjusting her demeanor, offering a polished smile. “Hello, Chairman Zheng. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”
Though they had interacted in several WeChat groups, this was their first official face-to-face meeting.
They had never privately added each other as friends either.
“This is my business card. If you ever need anything, feel free to contact me.”
Zheng Qiudong pulled a sleek, minimalist business card from the inner pocket of his suit.
Wen Ruan quickly accepted it with both hands and passed it to her assistant, Wang Dandan, before replying sincerely, “Thank you, Chairman Zheng. I’d love to learn from you when I get the chance.”
She also realized that Zheng Qiudong’s presence here likely had something to do with Tang Song paving the way for her.
After all, Deju Renhe was a consulting powerhouse with an extensive network.
She felt so touched she could hardly keep her legs together.
“The opening ceremony starts in five minutes. Let’s take our seats and chat as we go,” Sun Jun said at the right moment, warmly inviting everyone.
His gaze swept across Tang Song, Zheng Qiudong, and Wen Ruan, his smile becoming even more enthusiastic.
From a certain perspective, this opening ceremony was also an internal gathering of a particular faction.
Especially for Tang Song—being able to hold such demeanor and status at his age was something that had to be taken seriously.
The front-row VIP seats were bathed in soft lighting, surrounded by floral arrangements.
Accompanied by Sun Jun, Zheng Qiudong, and others, Tang Song strode forward along the red carpet.
The government officials and business leaders seated in the VIP section all rose to their feet, their faces filled with enthusiastic smiles.
Tang Song’s handsome face remained calm and composed, his pace steady and unhurried.
His navy-blue suit was understated yet exuded quality, and the Patek Philippe watch on his wrist reflected a subtle gleam under the lights.
With power and presence backing him, every move he made at this moment radiated a unique charm, gradually making him the focal point of the entire venue.
Lin Muxue followed closely behind him like a diligent assistant, her posture graceful and poised.
Yet her gaze couldn’t help but sneak through the gaps in the crowd, landing on Wen Zhenhua and Xiao Liguo, who stood not far away.
The corners of her lips curled into a triumphant smile.
She wasn’t a particularly magnanimous person—coming here was mainly to slap Wen Qiuyue in the face.
And now, even Wen Qiuyue’s father and future father-in-law were stunned by her. That was truly satisfying.
“Who is that young man? Why are Director Sun and Zheng Qiudong treating him so respectfully?”
“He’s definitely not ordinary! I think he might be from Meigou Tech.”
“I wonder if he’ll attend the closing banquet. If he does, it might be a great opportunity to connect.”
As the chatter around him grew louder, the buzzing in Xiao Mingxuan’s head gradually faded. He swallowed hard.
He had always had a strong impression of Yao Lingling’s senior, though at first, he hadn’t taken him seriously.
The first time they met, the guy was driving a white Wuling Hongguang—nothing impressive at all.
Later, he ran into him again at Yao Lingling’s rental apartment, riding a Kawasaki motorcycle.
It wasn’t until their encounter at Yuhua Business Tower, when he learned that the man was the Executive Director of Lanfeng International Hotel, that his perception completely changed.
And now, what he was witnessing today once again shattered his previous understanding.
Looking at Tang Song at this moment, he felt more fear and retreat than anything else.
Sure, he liked Yao Lingling—she was cheerful and helpful, a complete contrast to Wen Qiuyue.
Being around her gave him a sense of emotional fulfillment, a temporary escape from Wen Qiuyue’s shadow.
But to say there were deep feelings? That would be a lie.
Now that he sensed Tang Song’s extraordinary identity, what he worried about most was his family’s business.
“Mingxuan, are you okay?” Xiao Liguo patted his son’s shoulder.
Xiao Mingxuan took a deep breath, glanced at his father, then at Wen Zhenhua, and said in a low voice, “Dad, that young man is Tang Song. Lin Muxue is his assistant. Lingling is his junior from university, and the two are very close. When Qiuyue went to find Lingling, he was there.”
Hearing this, Xiao Liguo’s face instantly turned pale. “You… you’re not joking, right?”
“I’m not.” Xiao Mingxuan gritted his teeth. “I’ve known him for a long time—I just didn’t know his identity before.”
Wen Zhenhua’s eyelids twitched violently, his expression turning grim.
If Lin Muxue was the top assistant at Confluent Capital, then Tang Song’s identity was obvious.
A controlling shareholder of a hundred-billion-yuan private equity firm, well-connected with Zheng Qiudong and Shangguan Qiuya, and treated with great respect by Director Sun—
Tang Song’s influence was leagues beyond Lin Muxue or Wen Ruan.
Jiaxin Group was relatively safe since it had state-owned backing and industrial support, creating a significant number of jobs.
But Shangya was different—it was merely a fashion design and brand operation company, with a valuation barely reaching five or six billion.
It simply couldn’t withstand the impact of someone of Tang Song’s level.
Looking at Tang Song, now the absolute center of attention in the VIP area, Wen Zhenhua’s gaze flickered, his expression growing increasingly dark. “This is serious trouble.”
Xiao Liguo’s hands trembled slightly, his voice low. “Mingxuan, tell Yao Lingling that during her tenure at the company, we’ll grant her full copyright ownership of the designs she created. For the designs already launched, we will continue promoting them vigorously, and she’ll receive royalties at the core designer rate. Even if she leaves, we’ll still pay her accordingly.”
“Got it!” Xiao Mingxuan nodded, then suddenly added, “Oh, right, Li Shumin is also Tang Song’s junior.”
“Ugh…” Xiao Liguo’s mouth twitched, his head aching. “Give her the highest possible severance package, and handle the negotiations yourself.”
He had almost forgotten about Li Shumin—the assistant designer who had been let go in a much harsher manner.
But he couldn’t really be blamed for not remembering her. She was simply too unremarkable.
Neither her looks nor her abilities stood out in any way.
Even Wen Qiuyue had only casually mentioned her in passing.
…
“Ladies and gentlemen, the opening ceremony of the Yan Province International Fashion Exhibition is about to begin. Please take your seats.”
The host’s voice echoed throughout the venue via the sound system, gradually quieting the crowd.
Shen Yuyan’s gaze was locked onto Tang Song, her body trembling uncontrollably.
The heated sensation building between her legs only heightened her panic.
The mix of admiration and longing was overwhelming.
She had never denied her attraction to power—she had always believed that power was a man’s most alluring armor.
And at this very moment, Tang Song, in her eyes, radiated infinite charm, making her heart race like never before.
“Yuyan, we need to get back to the media section. Hurry, hurry!”
Meng Li lowered her DSLR camera and turned to urge her, snapping Shen Yuyan out of her trance.
“Mm.” Shen Yuyan nodded and followed Meng Li toward the media area.
Seated in her chair, her gaze remained locked on Tang Song in the VIP section.
“Oh my god! Our campus beauty Shen actually has a crush?”
Meng Li leaned in close to her ear, lowering her voice in amusement. “But I can’t blame you. That guy is really something! Just look at that face, that physique, that aura… absolutely breathtaking!”
“Not in the mood for your nonsense.”
“Oh, come on, no need to be shy.” Meng Li grinned mischievously and gestured toward the crowd. “Look around—half the women in this venue are staring at him. You’re hardly alone.”
Following her gaze, Shen Yuyan scanned the room and indeed noticed many women focusing on Tang Song.
Some were secretly snapping photos on their phones, others whispering excitedly, and even a few blushing as they covered their mouths to suppress laughter.
Then, her gaze shifted to Lin Muxue and Wen Ruan, seated beside him.
“…Yeah, I guess I’m just one of many.” Shen Yuyan murmured, a hint of self-mockery in her tone.
“No lie, he really is something else. And judging by his status, he’s no ordinary guy.” Meng Li giggled and whispered in her ear, “If he were my man, I’d be so happy! No, I swear, I need to stare at his photos tonight and—ugh! Otherwise, I won’t be able to sleep.”
Hearing such an outrageous remark, Shen Yuyan’s brow twitched, and she quickly pressed her legs together. “Can you please be normal? You sound like a total perv.”
“Can’t help it! He’s just that attractive.” Meng Li sighed dramatically. “But seriously, I wasn’t expecting this exhibition to be this huge—even Zheng Qiudong is here. No wonder that old guy looked so familiar. I must’ve seen him on Douyin before.”
Shen Yuyan absentmindedly responded while struggling to control her expression, trying to mask the undeniable longing and regret bubbling within her.
The Tang Song who had once been so close to her had now risen higher and higher—so high that he was completely out of reach.
She understood human nature all too well.
If she had agreed to join him when he first sought investment, things would have been different.
Or if, after realizing his extraordinary background, she had abandoned Youjie Domestic Services and turned to him, she might have still had a chance.
But now…
She had stubbornly held onto Youjie Domestic Services, her best friend had become his girlfriend, and she was standing here at the exhibition, witnessing his power and status firsthand.
Trying to get close to him now would only make her seem too opportunistic. No man would ever truly love a woman like that—he might even look down on her for it.
As a former campus beauty and a hardworking entrepreneur, Shen Yuyan had her own pride and self-respect.
What she longed for was the kind of treatment Lin Muxue and even Wen Ruan received.
But looking at the situation now, it was just too difficult. Far too difficult.
Shame and unwillingness burned like fire in her chest.
She clenched her teeth, trying to suppress the waves of emotion with reason, but the harder she fought, the stronger they surged, nearly swallowing her whole.
The lights in the conference center gradually dimmed, and the spotlight focused on the center stage.
The international fashion exhibition officially began.
“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the 2023 Yan Province International Fashion Exhibition! This year’s theme is Innovation · Integration · Future…”
The host stepped onto the stage, enthusiastically introducing the background and significance of the event.
On the large screen behind the stage, a carefully produced promotional video for the exhibition began to play.
Afterward, government officials, business leaders, and special guests took turns delivering speeches.
Following a short cultural performance and a fashion show, the four-day fashion exhibition was officially launched.
Tang Song politely declined Director Sun’s invitation to tour the exhibition area.
Instead, he left the conference center with Lin Muxue and Zheng Qiudong, returning to the VIP room to wait for the crowd to disperse.
“Chairman Tang, Chairman Zheng, please enjoy some tea.”
Understanding the situation well, Lin Muxue went to the bar area, made tea for both men, and returned to stand beside Tang Song.
Just then, a crisp system notification sounded in Tang Song’s ear.
Ding! Congratulations, player! Side mission [Understanding Humanity] has been completed.
You have gained [Charm +1].
Tang Song took a sip of tea and glanced at his graceful and intellectual assistant beside him. A bright smile suddenly appeared on his face.
Since the founding of Confluent Investments and Lin Muxue officially becoming his assistant, Tang Song had always played the quiet "observer" role.
He had watched her change and grow, little by little.
Especially after today’s opening ceremony, he could clearly sense that Lin Muxue had become more confident, composed, and independent—both in her career and in relationships.
Looking back at the fake heiress she once was, he couldn’t help but feel sentimental.
Back then, she had the polished appearance, but in hindsight, there was always a hint of pretense and unease in her words and actions.
At the time, his emotional intelligence and perception weren’t sharp enough to see through her facade.
He had even believed the 173cm/53kg Finance Woman’s Daily Vlog he came across, genuinely thinking she was a high-level finance professional. Follow current novels on novel_fіre.net
Then came the Lucky Badge-blessed encounter and their initial interaction at the roadshow.
And later, Low Whispers of Humanity.
Without that item, his story with Lin Muxue might have turned out entirely different.
Perhaps there wouldn’t even be an Assistant Lin today.
He could still recall the floating comment bubbles that had popped up above her head at the time.
[He’s looking at me! He’s looking at me! Am I swaying my hips too much?]
[Tang Song! You are my god! #Me!]
Noticing Tang Song staring at her, Lin Muxue instinctively touched her face and softly asked, “Chairman Tang, do you need anything?”
Tang Song broke free from his thoughts and spoke gently, “You look especially beautiful today, so I was just admiring you for a bit longer.”
Hearing this, Lin Muxue’s face flushed red.
Her body trembled slightly—she nearly lost all composure.
This sudden sweet talk was too much for her to handle.
Across from them, Zheng Qiudong let out a light cough and almost choked on his tea.
Even though he had seen Tang Song’s transformation, he still wasn’t used to his flirtatious behavior.
After all, in the past, Tang Song had been utterly “emotionless.”
Even when Su Yu sat right next to him, he could maintain an unfazed demeanor.
Tang Song chuckled, shook his head, and opened his system interface.
First, he checked his personal stats.
[Player: Tang Song (Charm 75)]
[Role: President of Songmei Fashion]
[Height: 184CM, Weight: 80KG]
[Physical Strength: 74, Stamina: 78, Agility: 70, Intelligence: 83]
[Financial Status:]
Balance: ¥102 million (Investment Fund: ¥504.5 million)
...
His charm score had officially reached 75.
At some point, his agility had also increased by 1, marking the first time all his attributes had surpassed 70.
He then returned to the main menu and entered the Companion module.
[Available Companion List:]
[Lin Muxue] [Status: Lovers, Deep Fluid Exchange]
[Buffs: Eye Enhancement, High Spirits, Posture Optimization, Expression Management]
He clicked the [Bind] button.
A prominent system message popped up.
[Cultivating a companion may require significant financial, material, and emotional resources. A great companion can bring you… There is a limit to the number of bound companions, so please choose wisely.]
Tang Song glanced at Lin Muxue beside him again.
Though her fake heiress background might have meant her potential was limited, she had still walked this journey with him.
He was willing to give her a chance to keep moving forward together.
Confirm.
The entire screen suddenly erupted with heart-shaped bubbles, roses, and shooting stars—an overwhelmingly romantic display.
Ding! You have successfully bound [Lin Muxue] as a companion!
[Companion - Lin Muxue] data collected. Generating Growth Plan Task…
The interface shifted.
[September 13, 2023—You have gained your third companion. Despite her flaws, despite her past deception and pretense, you ultimately chose her.]
[You have received Lin Muxue’s heartfelt blessing. You have gained the buff “High Spirits.”]