novelraw Chapter 801: Game Rules
Chapter 801: Game Rules
Shen City, Tang Yi Precision.
A high-level meeting that ran through the full procedure rehearsal for the new headquarters inauguration of Xuanji Optical World had just concluded.
Ouyang Xianyue was the first to step out of the conference room, followed by several executives who were still whispering over final details.
Chief Secretary Chen Jing, who had been waiting in the corridor, immediately hurried up and, at the moment their eyes met, gently took the lead.
Ouyang Xianyue did not stop walking. She only instructed the executive assistant at her side, "Organize today's meeting minutes. The revised plan for the holographic exhibition hall must be on my desk by three p.m."
"Yes, Chairwoman." The assistant answered respectfully.
She then turned to Secretary Chen and said in a neutral tone, "Come with me."
The two walked single file down the carpeted corridor and entered a private lounge reserved for Ouyang Xianyue.
The heavy wooden door closed slowly.
"Ms. Ouyang." Secretary Chen closed the door, then lowered her voice and reported with slightly faster than usual tempo, "Through our business and compliance channels in Europe, we cross-verified a piece of information. It's regarding Miss Anne Kate."Ouyang Xianyue placed the folder in her hand on the coffee table, sat down elegantly on the sofa, and signaled for her to continue.
Her posture was dignified, showing no impatience.
"The news has spread within certain circles in Europe. Yesterday, Miss Anne Kate made an unusually high-profile appearance on Bahnhofstrasse in Zurich, entering Crown Bank, and several of the bank's core executives personally received her and led her into closed-door meetings that lasted for hours. Afterward, rumors started circulating that she is the actual controller behind that bank."
Secretary Chen paused briefly, watching her boss's reaction.
"Swiss private bank? Actual controller?" Ouyang Xianyue lifted her eyelids, a trace of concentration passing through her eyes. "Have we checked her background?"
"We are checking." Secretary Chen's face showed difficulty. "Our intelligence team is attempting an initial penetration investigation. But the bank is extremely low-profile; its privatization level is very high. The real equity structure, fund flows, even client lists are hidden beneath layers of offshore companies. Because it’s foreign, resistance is significant."
"Hmm, I understand."
Ouyang Xianyue rose and walked to the window, lightly rubbing the jade bracelet on her wrist as she fell into thought.
With her usual meticulous foresight, she had never relaxed attention on the Tang Jin Family Office's internal movements, especially the overseas financial forces led by Jin Meixiao.
Anne Kate, a woman of prominent lineage whose behavior could be flamboyant and at times a little manic, had always been a focus of her vigilance.
To Ouyang, Anne was a double-edged sword who could harm Tang Song, and also one of Jin Meixiao’s heavyweight pieces.
Now that piece had suddenly leapt out on its own, binding itself so abruptly to a Swiss private bank of mysterious background— and in such a high-profile way?
That was clearly not in keeping with Anne Kate’s usual manner.
In fact, although Anne often appeared unrestrained on the surface, in real business and family matters she was extremely low-key and cautious, almost never exposing her true intentions in mainstream media.
Although she joined the Tang Jin Family Office as a committee member, she mostly handled fund and trust matters related to Jingwu Capital, rarely coming to the fore.
Her appearance at the Investors' Night in Modu was even the first time she had proactively shown up at a domestic financial event.
For a long-established dynasty like the Kate family, potential heirs staying low and not offering leverage is a tacit rule.
But now she had suddenly declared herself the actual controller of a private bank, and the Kate Bank itself is one of the family’s core cornerstone assets.
This was tantamount to challenging her own family power or even exposing herself—with no buildup, no reason.
The entire Tang Jin system did not even know she secretly held such a trump card.
Why would she do this now?
Ouyang Xianyue’s calm phoenix-like eyes flickered; a faint ripple seemed to pass beneath the surface.
Such an extremely secretive overseas financial shadow, to unearth quickly, could not be solved by routine means. It would require deeper, even darker resources for a true penetration investigation.
She could of course use channels within the Tang Jin Family Office; that would be faster and more accurate. After all, the Tang Jin system now had tentacles across the globe.
But the issue was—
The overseas segment had long been controlled by Jin Meixiao.
If she rashly intervened or mobilized the family office’s resources to probe Anne, Jin Meixiao would immediately know, and the person she most wanted to avoid alerting right now was exactly Director Jin.
"Have you contacted President Tang about Wednesday?"
Ouyang Xianyue turned back to the sofa area and abruptly changed the subject; the seriousness in her expression dissolved into casual calm.
Secretary Chen reacted quickly, "Already contacted him. Detailed itinerary briefs and the security plan have been sent to your encrypted mailbox. President Tang accepted our suggestion; to ensure the event's media security, he agreed to move the signing with Miss Bei Yuwei to a private booking at Mission Hills Golf Club. There will be no media present, absolute confidentiality."
"What about Songmei Apparel?"
"Progressing smoothly." Secretary Chen recited the updates like one who knew the information by heart, "The tech poverty alleviation team has completed the digital transformation linkage for Songmei’s supply chain. This was personally overseen by President Tang. Also, site negotiations for offline flagship experience stores in core business districts in Hangcheng, Modu, Imperial Capital, and others have been finalized; some store locations already have blueprints and are entering renovation."
"Vice President Gao Mengting of Songmei Apparel is currently in Yangcheng evaluating the South China market and coordinating e-commerce marketing with Smart Chain Future."
"President Tang will arrive in Yangcheng by private jet tomorrow (Tuesday) to meet with Ms. Gao. After they finish matters there, he will depart Yangcheng on Wednesday morning and head directly to Dongguan."
"Hmm, the timing fits." Ouyang Xianyue nodded lightly and paused in silence. She then lifted her hand and said calmly, "Give me the phone."
Secretary Chen swiftly stepped forward, took out her private phone from her bag, unlocked it, and handed it over.
Ouyang Xianyue took it, scrolled through the contacts, and tapped to call.
Secretary Chen bowed and left, carefully closing the door.
"Beep—beep—"
The wait was short.
After about three rings the call was answered.
A clear, magnetic voice came through the receiver: "Hello? Ouyang."
"Tang Song, it's me." Ouyang Xianyue’s voice instantly softened with warmth and familiarity. "Hope I'm not interrupting work? I heard you're flying to Yangcheng tomorrow?"
"Hmm, I originally planned to go earlier, but work's been busy. Don't worry; after I finish things in Yangcheng and Dongguan, I’ll head to Shen City. The new headquarters inauguration won't be delayed."
"Hehe, I'm not worried about that." Ouyang Xianyue's eyes shifted, and a tender expression touched her features. "By the way, I checked the schedule. I happen to be going to Dongguan in the next two days as well. You know, Xuanji Optical World's most critical precise optical component supply chain and several supporting new factories are in Dongguan."
"Oh? You're going to Dongguan too?"
"Yes, I'll inspect on Tuesday and attend some golf club events on Wednesday. It's been a while since I relaxed, and I also want to take the opportunity to discuss Xuanji Optical World's upcoming work with you. Besides, being seen together publicly will prevent later gossip about you meeting with the actress privately."
"All right, with you personally inviting me, how could I refuse?"
"Then we'll meet at Mission Hills on Wednesday."
They hung up.
Staring at the phone’s darkening screen, Ouyang Xianyue sank back into the soft leather sofa until her whole body was swallowed by it.
Her long fingers drummed lightly on her knee, making a muted rhythmic sound.
Two days left.
Dongguan….
When we meet, what should I do?
Ouyang Xianyue instinctively licked her slightly dry lips, a suppressed longing flickering in her eyes.
Last time in Rongcheng she believed she had sent enough signals—perhaps even overstepped a little.
And Tang Song’s sudden kiss confirmed to her that he was not indifferent.
In her understanding, the thin membrane between them had not been torn but had become as delicate as cicada wings—at the brink of a mutual, warm ambiguity.
But recently Tang Song’s behavior had left her puzzled.
He had not taken advantage of the moment to break through that boundary; in several necessary calls he maintained perfect propriety.
This now-you-see-now-you-don't attitude was like tepid water: unsatisfying when drunk and easily spoiled when left, leaving her suspended and unable to grasp his true intent.
If in Dongguan she made a bold move and took the initiative… would that be unbecoming? Would it affect how he saw her?
After all, she was no longer in her twenties.
But if she continued to be pulled along like this...
Ouyang Xianyue’s brow tightened; a nameless agitation and urgency welled up inside her.
Su Yu had completely freed herself, Jin Meixiao had already contacted him, and Anne Kate’s abrupt move had appeared.
Everything seemed to silently warn her:
If she did not act fast and seize the initiative, she could be edged out.
"Ha…"
She exhaled and rubbed her temples weakly.
Yet she was still Ms. Ouyang, once married and older than him by many years.
Those identities bound her, making her always strive to maintain a decorous, dignified image before that young, vigorous man.
She feared losing control and appearing shameful, even giving him the impression she was a shameless woman.
This fierce restraint warring with the surging desire inside tormented her like never before.
Half dazed,
the dream that had haunted several nights returned without invitation.
The white yacht drifting on a blue sea, the closed private space, and her own total abandon—she had even taken the initiative to seek pleasure as the waves tossed them.
The scene was so vivid it left her burning all over.
What could she do about it?
...
Yancheng, Songmei Apparel.
President's office.
Tang Song set down his phone, a thoughtful expression crossing his face.
"Senior, you..." came a slightly shy voice at his ear.
Tang Song turned to see Lingling, cheeks flushed, sitting with her legs together and gently biting her lower lip as she looked at him.
Their eyes met.
He blinked, and his fingers pressed down slightly.
"Ah!" Lingling gave a quiet cry and shivered.
Only then did Tang Song withdraw his hand from her waist and hip, his fingertips still registering the astonishing soft elasticity.
He had to admit, the junior's waist-to-hip ratio was practically perfect.
The distribution of fullness was just right—addictive, irresistibly pleasant.
He pulled out a banknote and smiled, "What's wrong with me?"
Lingling straightened the wrinkled pants, "You're so bad! You just made a call, why did you suddenly stick your hand in? You scared me!"
"Can't help it." Tang Song shrugged, looking innocent. "When I think while on the phone, I like having something to touch. It helps inspiration."
Lingling rolled her eyes at that twisted logic.
She took a deep breath to calm her racing heart, then asked curiously, "By the way, you said you're going to Dongguan... didn't you originally say Shen City?"
"Hmm, changed route to stop there first." Tang Song didn't hide it. "We're signing an endorsement for our brand."
"Oh? Who?" Lingling's eyes lit; her gossip instinct awakened.
"Bei Yuwei."
"Ah!!" Lingling covered her mouth, eyes wide as saucers. "Oh my god! Bei Yuwei?! That top-tier actress is going to endorse our HEYI brand?"
"Yes." Tang Song nodded. "She'll wear a full set of your spring-summer designs for a fashion shoot."
"That's amazing! This is so awesome!"
Lingling nearly jumped in excitement, the earlier shyness gone.
Everyone in the company knew they were finding a spokesperson and that Tang Entertainment—an industry giant—was involved. Given the original budget and brand positioning, the informal guesses were a fashion-second-tier star or rising actress.
No one expected them to land a top-stream celebrity like Bei Yuwei!
As a top trending actress, Bei Yuwei's commercial value and appearance fee were astronomical.
But...
Lingling thought for a moment. Considering her senior's unusual relationship with Su Yu, it wasn't entirely surprising.
If Su Yu had already been won over, what was a Bei Yuwei compared to that?
And considering Bei Yuwei had had two viral live interactions with influencer He Yiyi before, a formal endorsement would explode across the internet.
Add the upcoming offline flagship stores after the new year...
Their HEYI brand could finally shake off the "internet celebrity brand" tag and step into the ranks of domestic top fashion labels!
"Senior." After the excitement, Lingling suddenly remembered and turned to ask, "When are you coming back from Shen City? How long will you be there?"
"Hmm..." Tang Song paused. "Can't say for sure. There's a lot to handle, might be a while."
"What?" Lingling's face immediately fell. "Qiuqiu and I were hoping to celebrate your birthday in person."
"It’s okay. There will be other chances."
"All right." Lingling stood and smoothed her clothes, regaining her energetic spirit. "I'm good then! Design center will give it our all to support the big plan!"
She made a cheering gesture, eyes shining.
"Yeah, go for it." Tang Song rose too.
They stood facing each other, very close.
Lingling looked at his smiling expression; her heart fluttered. On impulse she tiptoed and quickly kissed him, greedily holding the kiss for several seconds before blushing and pulling back.
"Okay, I'll get back to work, senior. When you return from Shen City you must visit the new apartment Qiuqiu and I rented! Check out our rooms. You can stay the night, the three of us can play cards—dou di zhu—"
She winked, the tone carrying a playful hint.
Tang Song felt a flicker in his chest and raised his right hand, "Okay, it's a deal."
Lingling smiled and raised her hand, moving to high-five him.
But just as their palms were about to meet, Tang Song flipped his wrist and smacked her plump butt, producing a crisp "smack."
"Ow!" Lingling clutched the spot, pouting, "Senior! We were going to high-five, why did you hit me..."
"This is a lesson." Tang Song put on a mock-serious face. "So young, learning from whom? Wanting to play three-person games, getting bad ideas, junior."
"You, you..." Lingling was both embarrassed and angry. "Ah! It's your filthy mind thinking the wrong way! I meant the proper card game! Not what you're thinking..."
"Oh? Really? I don't believe you." Tang Song raised an eyebrow, amused.
"Believe if you want!"
"Besides..." Tang Song suddenly lowered his voice and leaned in, tempting, "If you really want to play, I could mention it to Wen Ruan. Imagine Team A and Team E—what a scene that would be?"
Lingling blushed at the mental images that popped into her head, ears burning.
"You're so bad!"
With that she fled, flinging the door open and running out.
Watching the closed office door, Tang Song shook his head with a smile. The amusement in his eyes faded as he returned to his desk.
After a week of intense organization, Songmei Apparel's business structure had been mostly clarified.
New hires had quickly settled into the rhythm.
Notably, several senior design talents recommended by Dejurenhe had proven outstanding, lifting the company's design level a notch. Both apparel design and visual communication became more refined and international.
Coupled with the technical poverty alleviation team's support from Tang Yi Precision on supply chain digital transformation, Tang Song felt keenly that Ouyang Xianyue had quietly intervened behind the scenes.
That was actually a good thing.
Because the matter concerned his Growth Plan mission, system rules forbade him from actively abusing extraordinary resources to force progress.
But when such cooperation was offered voluntarily by the other side, it didn't count as a violation.
Thinking of that graceful, glamorous noble lady, Tang Song felt a strong sense of anticipation.
He had not expected the restrained Ouyang Xianyue to be so proactive in proposing a Dongguan meeting.
As for the ostensible "factory inspection," he of course did not buy that pretense.
For that cultivated noblewoman to be this proactive and covert—if he said he had no thoughts, he'd be lying.
Her aged, refined allure, the intoxicating blend of wisdom and charm, was like an aged vintage wine he found irresistible.
Yet with her special identity and age, and with their long acquaintance, he always behaved restrained and decorous around her—afraid a lapse would expose too much and ruin a carefully maintained image.
But her unusual initiative—could it be signaling something?
Buzz—buzz—buzz— his phone on the desk vibrated.
Tang Song picked it up.
[Little Bei: "President Tang~ Just learned you're coming on Wednesday. There's an urgent matter to report! (kowtow.jpg"]
[Little Bei: "Our production team just received notice that core creators and lead actors were invited to attend a high-end business event at Mission Hills Golf Club on Wednesday. The host's clout is enormous; even investors dare not offend them. We have no room to refuse. (tearful.jpg"]
[Little Bei: kowtow.jpg]
[Little Bei: "So our planned meeting and signing might be forced to move to the afternoon or evening…. I'm so, so sorry! I really wanted to meet you, but we have no way to refuse.."]
Reading her string of apologetic messages, Tang Song smiled and replied, "No problem. Let's combine the signing and meeting at the golf club. It's a nice and more private environment."
His original plan had been to go to Dongguan and privately sign with the idol in the hotel.
But Tang Yi Precision, or rather Ouyang Xianyue, worried about his contact with Bei Yuwei before the relocation ceremony and press conference a few days later and had effectively preempted the situation by gathering everyone at an extremely private golf club.
That consideration was reasonable.
Bei Yuwei was now a genuine top star—although her tenure in the industry was not long, her traffic and attention were terrifying.
She was constantly trailed by reporters seeking big news, obsessive fans, and paparazzi planted by competitors.
Meeting in the club’s closed environment was safer and more dignified.
From Ouyang Xianyue’s vantage, however, she would never place much stock in a small artist like Bei Yuwei or bother to explain the rationale to her.
"Buzz—"
[Little Bei: "(starry-eyed.jpg"]
Tang Song: "No need, I'll be there."
[Little Bei: "Okay! We'll follow your lead! I know President Tang is powerful, so I'll wait there obediently! Super excited! (flying kiss)"]
They chatted a little more.
Tang Song set his phone down and stretched.
His gaze drifted out the floor-to-ceiling window toward the southern horizon.
Yangcheng, Dongguan, Shen City.
Several threads and figures were entangling there.
And his 26th birthday was imminent.
This birthday should be quite the spectacle, he thought.
Dongguan, Film Base.
On the set of the movie Fingertip Starlight.
Inside the production's exclusive deluxe lounge.
Bei Yuwei set down her phone and sighed softly.
Assistant Xiao Tao had just finished sorting the jewelry for the next scene and came over, concerned, "Yuwei, there’s more than half an hour before the next scene. Do you want to lie down in the inner room and rest? You didn't sleep well last night."
"No, I'm fine, I'm alert." Bei Yuwei shook her head, though a smile tugged at the corner of her mouth, the faint dark circles under her eyes masked by the light in her expression.
She had only learned last night that Tang Song would come to Dongguan on Wednesday and was both excited and anxious, barely sleeping all night.
She had tried to negotiate schedule adjustments with the production this morning, but to no avail.
When she heard the name Tang Yi Precision, she knew there was no room for negotiation.
Even the local branch's power was not something they could resist.
The so-called invitation to "liven the atmosphere" was essentially an order that could not be refused; even if unwell, one must show up.
"At least... he's not angry," she murmured.
"Who?" Xiao Tao asked instinctively.
"Who else?" Bei Yuwei teased, warmth spreading in her eyes.
"President Tang?" Xiao Tao lowered his voice, understanding.
"Yes." Bei Yuwei's lips curved, her gaze drifting.
To her, Tang Song was not only a financier and protector but also the prince of her romantic fantasies. Her bold, near-desperate initiative once was the craziest and most regret-free decision she ever made.
She hadn't expected the depth of Tang Song's relationship with Su Yu, and that made her hesitant to be too forward.
Until now, Su Yu herself had brokered this endorsement for Songmei Apparel to land with Bei Yuwei—a tacit approval of her position, allowing her some peace of mind.
At that moment,
"Knock—knock—knock—" a polite knock sounded at the lounge door.
"Yuwei, is it convenient?" The voice of a deputy director came from outside, more solicitous than usual.
Xiao Tao glanced at Bei Yuwei and, seeing her nod, opened the door.
The deputy director stood outside, and beside him was a young man in a casual suit.
Zhou Ran. Nicknamed "Young Master Zhou" around the set.
On appearance alone, he was not remarkable.
About twenty-five or twenty-six, his features neat but plain, slightly wide-set eyes—someone who wouldn’t catch the eye in a crowd.
Of average build, clearly pampered and lacking in exercise.
But as the saying goes, wealth breeds refinement.
He wore a tailor-made casual suit and a Patek Philippe on his left wrist that gleamed under the lights, instantly elevating his presence.
His eyes carried a habitual condescending confidence that made his posture exude nobility only true wealth could buy.
Bei Yuwei gave a nearly imperceptible sigh but lifted her face with a sweet, pure smile as she greeted, "Young Master Zhou? What a surprise, why did you come by?"
"Just nearby, so I stopped to see you. Hope I'm not disturbing your rest?" Zhou Ran smiled impeccably and stepped in naturally.
Two bodyguards trailed him, each carrying items.
Zhou turned and handed over a bouquet of Ecuadorian rainbow roses from airfreight, very gentlemanly: "Heard you have a big night scene tonight. Thank you for the hard work. The flowers just landed; hope they brighten your mood."
He also carried a delicate orange gift bag—Hermès limited edition, likely a rare silk accessory or small leather piece.
Bei Yuwei did not reach for them, keeping polite smiles and saying tactfully, "Young Master Zhou, you’re too kind. You’re busy, yet you came to visit. I really shouldn’t accept such expensive gifts on set where many people are around. It might not be appropriate."
Zhou Ran seemed used to her refusals. His smile did not fade. His eyes skimmed her lightly.
"What’s inappropriate? With me here, no one dares say anything."
He placed the flowers and gift on the vanity, casual but unequivocal: "Just a small token. Hope you like it. You should be able to relax in the next few days, right? After tonight I’ll have someone prepare a light supper. Our producer and several heads from the film base will be there. We can chat and unwind a bit."
Bei Yuwei’s thoughts spun. Her smile remained, her voice softer with an air of weary apology, "Young Master Zhou, I truly appreciate your kindness. But I didn’t sleep last night and my state is poor. After tonight’s big night scene I’ll likely collapse. Also, I have an important business event in the next two days—I can’t stay up late or I’ll be unable to handle it."
Zhou Ran’s smile flickered; a shadow passed through his eyes, but he adjusted quickly, his tone even gentler: "I understand. Your health is the priority."
He shifted, "That event you mean is the Mission Hills one on Wednesday, right? Tang Yi Precision’s Dongguan branch is hosting. Our Hengke Group collaborates with Tang Yi on many projects. Several weighty local industrial players will attend. I will be there as well."
He paused, looking at Bei Yuwei, the smile deepening with a meaning that could not be avoided: "We’ll see each other then?"
Bei Yuwei’s smile stiffened; panic fluttered beneath her calm.
Tang Song would be there.
Zhou Ran and Tang Song…
Although Tang Song was a shareholder of Tang Entertainment and Su Yu’s boyfriend, Zhou Ran’s backing—Hengke Group—was a deeply rooted industrial giant with tangled local influence.
If they met, even if Tang Yi Precision as host would prevent overt friction, if Tang Song were displeased...
She could not bear to think further.
Having achieved his likely purpose, Zhou Ran took his leave with polished manners.
When the lounge door closed, assistant Xiao Tao worriedly asked, "Yuwei, are you all right?"
"I'm fine." Bei Yuwei inhaled deeply, her face paling.
The fleeting lightness she had felt vanished, replaced by a heavy premonition.
She could no longer rest; her eyes fixed on the Ecuadorian roses on the table as her thoughts unraveled.
Only when Xiao Tao reminded her the shoot was about to resume did she force herself to get up.
At that moment the lounge door was pushed open.
Lin Keke came in, eyes red and tear tracks still on her cheeks, rushing in.
"Yuwei!" Lin Keke's voice cracked with sobs, full of grievance and helplessness.
Bei Yuwei’s heart jolted, "What's wrong, Keke? What happened?"
Lin Keke sobbed haltingly, "Just now... the producer told me the third female lead role is being replaced, they'll give me a small supporting part instead..."
"What?!"
Bei Yuwei's face went cold and her gaze sharpened instantly.
A replacement?
In this industry, casting changes happen often.
But Lin Keke had been personally recommended by Bei Yuwei; the contract had been signed, the costume photos taken!
To remove her now wasn't just bullying Lin Keke, it was publicly slapping Bei Yuwei in the face!
"Who said that? Producer Zhang?"
"Yes."
Bei Yuwei took out her phone and dialed Director Li Wenmo directly.
The call rang a long time before connecting.
"Hello, Director Li. This is Yuwei. I want to ask about Keke’s role—wasn’t everything settled..."
"Yuwei..." On the line, Lü Baiyu’s voice sounded awkward. "I can't do anything about this either. It's the film base in Dongguan. Zhou Ran personally requested it; they want to place a newcomer."
Bei Yuwei understood everything in an instant.
This wasn't about Lin Keke; it was aimed at her.
Zhou Ran was pressuring her for her earlier perceived affront.
She was Tang Entertainment’s favored star, covered by Su Yu and President Mo. Zhou Ran couldn’t directly touch her on the surface—everyone in the crew had to treat her respectfully.
But he could harm those around her, those she had personally helped like Lin Keke.
As a shareholder in the film base and the scion of Hengke Group, he had both the power and a "reasonable" justification.
The production would not risk offending the real money and local forces just to protect her pride.
There was nothing she could do about it.
Should she beg President Mo or even wake Su Yu to intervene?
They could solve it, certainly.
No one in the industry dared offend Tang Entertainment.
But the problem was He Yiyi—she could not.
That would be asking for death, making her seem lacking in discretion and troublemaking.
With the most direct, cold method, Zhou Ran had shown her the game's rules and the fragility behind her seeming glory.