novelraw Chapter 568: How Can an Empress Not Show Off?
Chapter 568: How Can an Empress Not Show Off?
At nearly 9 AM, sunlight filtered through the sheer curtains, casting warm patches on the floor. The room basked in the tranquil radiance unique to autumn mornings.
Shen Yuyan sat on the beige sofa in the living room, her commuter bag and suitcase neatly arranged beside her. In her hands was a folder bearing the logo of [Rongliu Capital], her expression focused and serious.
It contained the latest quarterly personnel appointments and organizational restructuring from the Hong Kong headquarters. Since joining, she had thoroughly familiarized herself with Rongliu Capital's ownership structure.
Tang Song personally held 60% of the shares and controlled another 20% through the employee stock ownership platform (CCPartnership), giving him an effective 80% controlling stake. All these equity changes had occurred just over two months ago.
In other words, Tang Song had only truly taken control of Rongliu Capital two months prior. For a private equity firm with $2 billion in assets under management (AUM)—though only mid-sized—this was already impressive enough.
After all, Tang Song was only 26!
Though currently based in Yancheng, he clearly regarded this company as the foundation and backbone of his career. She believed the 26-year-old Tang Song wouldn't be satisfied with this. One day, Rongliu Capital would stand on the world stage of private equity.
This was her opportunity—the reason she was so proactive about going to headquarters. She needed to establish influence, expand her reputation, and seize the initiative at the Hong Kong headquarters before that "pretentious show-off" Lin Muxue could.
Unfortunately, she still hadn't managed to shake Lin Muxue off. Fortunately, what Tang Song needed were people who could actually get things done—and in that regard, she was quite confident.
"Ding dong—" A WeChat notification sounded.[Bai Menglin: "Yuyan, I should be off work around 6 PM. Let me know when you arrive in Hong Kong!"]
Seeing her old classmate's message, Shen Yuyan's lips curved slightly. She quickly typed back: "Got it, Menglin. See you tonight!"
Just as she sent the message—
"Ring ring—" Her phone suddenly vibrated.
[Lin Muxue]
Answering the call, Shen Yuyan said gently, "Hello? Luna, are you here yet?"
A cool voice came through the receiver: "Almost. Five minutes."
"Alright, I'll head down now."
The call ended abruptly.
Shen Yuyan pressed her lips together, her expression darkening. This Lin Muxue really had the nerve—going out of her way to pick her up, yet sounding so cold on the phone. Who was she putting on this act for?!
Standing up, she grabbed her prepared commuter bag and suitcase. After a final check of her belongings, Shen Yuyan stopped before the full-length mirror to adjust her outfit and hair, then headed downstairs.
The wheels of her suitcase made soft sounds against the stone pavement as she crossed the path to the south gate of the residential complex. Looking up at the place she'd lived for over three years, she couldn't help but feel sentimental.
North City Garden wasn't a high-end complex—just an ordinary high-rise residential building, already eleven years old, though the environment was decent. Most importantly, it wasn't far from her alma mater, Yancheng University of Science and Technology. She'd chosen this place back then because she was familiar with the surroundings.
Now... it was finally time to leave.
Of course, for someone as ambitious and eager to climb higher as her, leaving was never a regret—just a new beginning.
Just then, the sound of tires rolling over pavement reached her ears.
A Maybach S-Class glided into view, its black exterior gleaming like a mirror, exuding an undeniable presence. The silver double-M emblem on the front grille shone with a cold luster under the sunlight as it came to a smooth stop before her.
Shen Yuyan raised an eyebrow, a faint premonition stirring.
The window rolled down, revealing a delicate profile.
Lin Muxue sat elegantly in the back seat, dressed in a fitted Dior suit from the new season, her expression cool and composed—every inch the female CEO from TV dramas. She turned slightly, her gaze sweeping over Shen Yuyan with a glance that made the latter's heart skip a beat.
"Get in, Shirley," Lin Muxue said calmly, her voice cool and controlled, carrying an undeniable authority—as if addressing a subordinate.
Yet in places no one could see, her toes had curled tightly, her legs unconsciously rubbing together as she suppressed her excitement and anticipation, struggling to contain her rising emotions.
At the same time, the driver's door opened, and a uniformed chauffeur stepped out briskly. With practiced movements, he took Shen Yuyan's luggage, stowed it in the trunk, then circled to the rear door to open it for her.
"Miss Shen, please," he said respectfully.
"Thank you." Shen Yuyan exhaled lightly before bending to enter the car.
The luxurious, comfortable leather seats enveloped her instantly, the air filled with a faint woody-fruity fragrance.
"Thud." The door closed gently.
Shen Yuyan turned to look at Lin Muxue beside her, her tone gracious and poised. "Good morning, Luna. Sorry for the trouble of coming to pick me up."
"No trouble at all. Since we're traveling together, it's only natural to look after you." Lin Muxue's lips curved slightly as she nodded to the driver upfront. "Let's go."
The Maybach pulled away smoothly, the streets outside the window gradually receding.
Shen Yuyan's lips twitched, biting back whatever she wanted to say.
Damn! So this is why you went out of your way to pick me up!
You just wanted to show off your fancy car, didn't you?!
It's just a trip to the airport—was it really necessary to hire such an expensive ride?
What a show-off!
Lin Muxue glanced sideways at Shen Yuyan, her eyes quickly scanning the other woman's expression, a surge of satisfaction flooding her heart.
It had been a while since she'd gotten the co-branded black card, but today was the first time she'd officially begun her "VIP lifestyle" in earnest.
It was time to enjoy the privileges and glory befitting Empress Muxue!
Private security, luxury car transfers, hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants...
If not for Shen Yuyan as her "audience," she'd have had to take photos during the ride, pick filters, think of captions, then post them on Douyin, Xiaohongshu, and her social media circles.
This was precisely why she'd insisted on coming with her.
Otherwise, she could have simply bypassed the company's channels and taken a private jet arranged by the black card's concierge team.
After all, nothing was more satisfying than flaunting her superiority right in front of her rival.
Shirley! You have no idea how much I love you!
From now on, just quietly play your role as my supporting character!
Today, Empress Muxue will crush you utterly with her peerless elegance!
O(n_n)O Haha~
The two exchanged little conversation during the ride, only briefly confirming their itinerary and boarding time as a matter of routine. The atmosphere was quiet but not relaxed.
After about forty minutes, the Maybach smoothly entered the dedicated lane outside Yancheng International Airport's terminal.
The driver expertly retrieved their luggage and politely led the way ahead.
Both women were strikingly attractive, professionally dressed, and impeccably made-up—naturally drawing many gazes.
Shen Yuyan carried herself with gentle grace, her eyes shimmering with thoughtful light.
Lin Muxue wore a faint smile throughout, carrying her Hermès Birkin bag as if thoroughly enjoying the attention.
Though walking side by side, an invisible boundary seemed to separate their auras.
Arriving at the VIP check-in counter, Shen Yuyan had just pulled out her documents when—
A young, well-mannered female staff member in uniform quickly approached.
Bowing slightly, she said softly and respectfully, "Respected Miss Lin, I am your dedicated concierge. It's my honor to provide you with full-service assistance."
"Hello." Lin Muxue smiled faintly, giving a slight nod.
Her gaze flickered imperceptibly toward Shen Yuyan, a hint of smugness in her eyes.
Shen Yuyan's fingers paused briefly, her eyelid twitching.
She'd naturally heard of airport "VIP services"—usually reserved for important business figures, dignitaries, or an airline's top-tier members.
Dedicated channels, dedicated staff, one-on-one service throughout...
Of course, at some airports, you could also enjoy them by paying for advance reservations.
Xiaoxue, you really have the nerve—showing off everywhere you go!
Outwardly, however, she merely smiled faintly and said nothing.
Then, under the concierge's guidance—
Document verification, baggage check-in, security, immigration, stamping, clearance...
They barely needed to lift a finger throughout.
In under ten minutes, they were smoothly ushered into the first-class lounge.
Morning light streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows, warm and bright.
Rows of plush leather sofas were arranged elegantly, complemented by tasteful floral arrangements. The refreshment counter offered fruits, desserts, and imported teas.
"Miss Lin, the lounge includes a spa and hand care service area, available at no cost. Would you like me to arrange something for you?" the concierge asked gently again.
"No need, thank you. I'm feeling quite well today."
"Understood. Please don't hesitate to call if you require anything." The concierge took a step back, standing quietly nearby.
Lin Muxue picked up a crystal glass, taking a casual sip of sparkling water as she glanced at Shen Yuyan.
Her heart swelled with immense satisfaction.
This was only the beginning, Xiao Yuyan. Today, I'll show you the gap between us.
I'm Tang Song's personal assistant!
The one with black card verification!
Shen Yuyan sat on the opposite sofa, legs crossed, scrolling through her phone as if she hadn't heard anything.
Over half an hour later.
The two followed staff to complete boarding smoothly.
Seated in the spacious, luxurious business class seats, Lin Muxue couldn't resist pulling out her phone to start taking photos.
Just then, a faint perfume scent drifted over as an arm draped across her shoulders.
Shen Yuyan leaned in close with a bright smile, her tone affectionate. "Let's take one together! We can report our travel progress to Boss Tang and show off our 'team harmony' while we're at it."
After a momentary pause, Lin Muxue subtly straightened her posture, pressing shoulder-to-shoulder with Shen Yuyan, a professional yet perfect smile on her lips.
"Click—"
Their first photo together was captured.
......
Huashang Garments, production workshop.
"Buzz buzz—" A phone vibrated.
Tang Song pulled his phone from his pocket, eyebrows lifting slightly.
[Shen Yuyan: "Reporting to the boss—we're on our way! We'll be staying at the Four Seasons Hong Kong, awaiting your inspection. Promise no fighting, no fussing, no drama (#side-eye smile)."]
[Shen Yuyan: Photo.jpg]
The photo showed an unusually intimate shot of the two women.
One refined and coldly beautiful, the other fresh and sweet.
Both were his personal assistants, and paired with Shen Yuyan's teasing message, it instantly made Tang Song's heart race a little.
Both women were schemers in their own ways, each with distinct personalities, often bickering—yet undeniably captivating.
If he could get them into the same bed, that would really be...
"What are you looking at, smiling so oddly?"
A light perfume scent drifted over as Gao Mengting approached, bumping his shoulder playfully with a smile.
Tang Song quickly put his phone away, coughing slightly as he feigned seriousness. "Nothing, just... remembered something funny. I'll tell you about it another time."
Gao Mengting didn't press further, her sparkling gaze turning forward. "Our first batch of sample garments is about to come off the line! Soon, Songmei Apparel will finally have its own 'branded products.'"
"Yes, this is just the beginning." Tang Song nodded, his bright, confident eyes looking ahead.
On the production line, fabric moved steadily through precise cutting, meticulous stitching, steam pressing, and manual quality checks—each step proceeding methodically.
This was Songmei Apparel's factory's first small-batch production for the [HEYISTUDIO] brand, marking a crucial step toward brand operations.
To personally witness this milestone, Tang Song had specially brought his business partner to observe.
Approaching noon.
The first sample garment was officially completed.
A white shirt with smooth fabric, neat stitching, and sharp tailoring, glowing softly under the lights—simple yet exuding sophistication.
Light applause and cheers immediately filled the workshop.
Gao Mengting turned to Tang Song, raising a slender hand with a shake.
Tang Song smiled, meeting her high-five.
With the crisp sound of palms clapping—
A clear system notification chimed in Tang Song's ear.
"Ding! Congratulations, player. Side quest [Supply Chain Empowerment] has been completed."
"You have obtained [Random Gift Pack*1]."
Tang Song's brows lifted, his mood instantly brighter.
After nearly two months, this quest was finally done.
The main challenge had been He Jingping's earlier obstruction.
Now, through resource integration, he'd achieved supply chain empowerment, building his competitive moat.
Most importantly—Double Eleven was coming!
With independent production lines, stable quality control, flexible response capabilities, and He Yiyi's traffic matrix, Songmei Apparel could deliver a stellar performance in the upcoming "shopping festival" sprint.
After all, his [Phase Three Growth Plan Task ②] required achieving monthly sales exceeding 100 million yuan.
And November was the most promising month!
Taking a deep breath to suppress his excitement, Tang Song didn't immediately open the gift pack. Instead, he joined Gao Mengting and several Huashang Garments executives in heading to the banquet hall for celebrations.
At 2 PM.
The two returned to Songmei Apparel's CEO office.
Having had some alcohol, Gao Mengting was noticeably more relaxed and casual.
Crossing her legs, she chattered enthusiastically about Double Eleven's operational tempo, KOL deployment strategies, and even mentioned Qiuqiu's express packaging designs.
Sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows, illuminating her lovely face, her eyes brimming with visions of the future.
She looked radiant and vibrant.
Looking at his business partner before him, Tang Song suddenly spread his arms with a grin. "By tradition, shouldn't we celebrate with an enthusiastic hug?"
Gao Mengting turned her head away. "In your dreams."
Then she couldn't help but burst into laughter herself.
Standing up, she proactively opened her arms and hugged him tightly.
But when she tried to pull away, she found herself locked firmly in Tang Song's embrace, unable to move.
"Smack~" Tang Song planted a kiss on her adorable apple cheeks, then sat down on the sofa with her in his lap.
Her soft, perky bottom pressed against his thighs, sending waves of pleasant sensation through him.
Tang Song leaned into her hair, inhaling lightly.
"Hey! Stop messing around—this is the office!" she warned in a hushed voice, though she didn't actually struggle free, only blushing as she squirmed slightly.
Tang Song smiled wordlessly, slipping a hand forward.
"Ah!" Gao Mengting gasped softly, quickly covering her mouth as her body trembled. She patted his arm. "Behave! Don't move!" Tang Song held her tighter.
Gao Mengting's face flushed, but she obediently stopped resisting.
Tang Song opened the system interface.
Entering the warehouse.
A golden gift pack lay quietly inside.
Taking a deep breath, Tang Song metaphorically washed his hands with "luck soap."
Selecting [Random Gift Pack], he opened it immediately.
"Ding! You have obtained [21 Pollock's Path Residence*1]."
[21 Pollock's Path Residence*1]: A HK$450 million duplex penthouse at 21 Pollock's Path in the Mid-Levels—the only unit in the entire development. 3,378 sq. ft. (approx. 314 sq. m), with a 2,131 sq. ft. private rooftop terrace and 717 sq. ft. front garden. 270° panoramic views from the highest section of Upper Pollock's Path, overlooking Victoria Harbour, Central's skyline, and Victoria Peak—blending urban vibrancy with serene seclusion...
[Note 1: This property was purchased in-game. Ownership documents, contracts, keys, etc., are stored in the master bedroom walk-in closet's safe.]
[Note 2: The door code is your birthdate. All items within the residence belong to you—feel free to explore and claim them.]
"Ah!" Gao Mengting cried out, slapping his hand. "What are you doing?! That hurts!"
"Sorry, darling. Got a little too excited," Tang Song said, withdrawing his hands.
"Hey!"
"What?" Official source is novel✶fire.net
"Continue."
"Mm."
......
3 PM.
The plane landed smoothly at Hong Kong International Airport.
The two women walked through the jet bridge into the terminal.
This was Shen Yuyan's first time in Hong Kong. Though she'd researched extensively online, being here in person still left her somewhat flustered.
In contrast, Lin Muxue remained composed and elegant, striding confidently ahead.
Shen Yuyan followed silently behind, entering the immigration hall and passing through the "Hong Kong Residents/Business" channel.
Document checks, identity scans, baggage collection, green channel...
Everything proceeded relatively smoothly.
The moment they stepped into the arrivals hall, Hong Kong's characteristic humid heat enveloped them—crowds bustling, neon signs everywhere, languages mingling with duty-free perfumes and general clamor.
It felt like instantly switching to another world's frequency.
Shen Yuyan took a deep breath, soaking in Hong Kong's unique atmosphere as her heart gradually warmed.
This... would be her main battleground going forward.
Just then—
A young woman in a crisp uniform strode toward them.
Her demeanor was efficient, a tablet glowing blue in her hands, an exquisite name tag on her chest.
Behind her followed two burly men in black suits—apparently security personnel.
Shen Yuyan's heart skipped a beat, her gaze instinctively darting to Lin Muxue.
Sure enough, the woman stopped before Lin Muxue, speaking in a warm yet professional tone: "Miss Lin, welcome to Hong Kong. I'm Aria, your private consultant here. We spoke on the phone—do you remember?"
Lin Muxue nodded calmly, lips curving slightly. "Hello, Aria."
Her voice carried ease and assurance, as if accustomed to such high-level treatment.
Aria continued smiling: "Miss Lin, your car is waiting at Parking Lot 1. Over the next few days, I'll assist with all your transportation needs."
One security guard immediately stepped forward to take their suitcases.
"Mm, let's go." Lin Muxue smiled contentedly before glancing at Shen Yuyan. "Shirley, it's crowded here. Keep up."
With that, she turned gracefully, swaying her slender waist and round hips in an exaggerated walk as she headed out.
Private consultant Aria followed closely, steps steady; the two security guards shadowed them at a safe distance, alert and solemn.
Her back was straight and alluring, as if spotlighted, drawing the gazes of passersby.
A faint blush of intoxication rose on Lin Muxue's cheeks, her bladder tightening—she almost wanted to wet herself on the spot.
Just kidding! How could she call herself an empress if she didn't show off?!
Xiao Yanyan! Watch and learn!
Shen Yuyan stood rooted, her expression complicated.
She truly couldn't understand—Lin Muxue was ultimately just Tang Song's assistant, perfectly normal back in Yancheng.
Why had coming to Hong Kong suddenly warranted such extravagance?
Anyone would think she was some wealthy heiress!
Mockery aside, she couldn't deny her envy.
Biting her lower lip, Shen Yuyan adjusted her emotions and reluctantly followed.
The group exited the terminal, arriving at the south parking lot of T1.
After a short walk—
Aria gestured ahead. "Miss Lin, we're here."
Shen Yuyan looked up, her eyelid twitching.
In the dedicated parking space ahead stood three luxury vehicles in a neat row.
Two Bentley Mulsannes in dual-tone color schemes and a Mercedes-Benz business van—all gleaming like mirrors, radiating presence.
Three uniformed drivers stood at attention, movements synchronized.
Spotting Lin Muxue's approach, they bowed slightly in unison: "Miss Lin."
Shen Yuyan halted mid-step, her ample chest heaving.
Holy shit?! What kind of treatment is this?!
Just as she struggled to process the scene—
"Click—" The lead Bentley's door opened slowly.
Out stepped a graceful, poised figure.
A woman in her thirties, wearing a khaki casual blouse, black dress pants, and simple yet exquisitely crafted high heels—her overall look clean yet sophisticated.
Her hair was tied up, a few strands framing her face, makeup impeccable, eyes bright and spirited—exuding innate composure and intelligence.
Her every movement carried true powerhouse charisma.
Instantly becoming the focal point of all attention.
Shen Yuyan's breath caught, her gaze locked onto the woman's face.
She... looked familiar?
Before she could recall where, Lin Muxue had already hurried forward, beaming brightly. "Sister Xiangwan, you came to pick me up personally?"
Mo Xiangwan's lips curved slightly as she regarded Lin Muxue warmly. "I happened to be free today. Besides, you're my honored guest—it's only right to come myself."
"Thank you, Sister Xiangwan." Lin Muxue looked genuinely touched.
Then, as if remembering something—
She turned, her gaze sweeping over Shen Yuyan before smiling broadly. "This is my colleague Shirley, here with me on business to headquarters. Shirley, this is Mo Xiangwan, CEO of Tang Entertainment."
The moment "Mo Xiangwan" was uttered—
Shen Yuyan's mind exploded, rooted to the spot in shock.
Mo Xiangwan?!
Director and CEO of Tang Entertainment? Su Yu's agent? Director of Stellar Convergence?
So it was her!
The name wasn't unfamiliar.
She frequently appeared at major film premieres, capital forums, investor galas—even making Forbes Asia's Women to Watch list.
Her every word could sway public opinion, industry trends, and social currents.
But why would she personally come to pick up Lin Muxue?!!