Chapter 438: New Partner Quota

In a corner by the window of the coffee shop.

The corner of Tang Song's eye twitched slightly; forcing himself to speak, he said, "Sister Shu Yu, you've worked hard lately. I've finished reading the research report you sent yesterday."

Due to past experiences, he had always held a certain respect for this older female CEO, and even after becoming involved, he had never been too impatient.

At this very moment, being caught by her while out having fun with Wen Wen Wen Ruan made his mood utterly foul.

"Oh." Xie Shu Yu smiled faintly. "Then do you have anything you want to say to me?"

When they had just sat down, Tang Song hesitated for a moment before ultimately taking the seat next to Wen Wen Wen Ruan.

This action caused Xie Shu Yu's heart to sink completely, becoming irritable and uneasy.

Because it proved that in Tang Song's heart, he leaned more toward Wen Wen Wen Ruan; she had lost.

For Xie Shu Yu, this was the part that truly hurt.

Having started from nothing to reach her current position, she naturally possessed a strong competitive spirit and self-confidence.

Meeting Xie Shu Yu's gaze, Tang Song licked his lips, feeling his throat go dry. "Regarding product innovation and differentiated competition, I fully agree with your approach. The R&D department must not only be established but also receive increased investment."

"Heh." Xie Shu Yu crossed her long, slender legs, looking at her boyfriend with bright, sharp eyes. "President Lin of Deju Deju Deju Renhe is already helping us recruit an R&D team. There should be news by next week; at that time, you will accompany me to interview the candidates."

"Mm, no problem." Tang Song nodded immediately, offering Xie Shu Yu a gentle smile.

Xie Shu Yu remained unmoved, tapping her finger lightly on the table. "Speaking of which, Tang Song, you are currently the majority shareholder of Glimmer Coffee. If you have time, I hope you can pay more attention to our company."

"Mm, okay, Sister Shu Yu. I'm sorry; I was negligent before." Tang Song appeared extremely sincere.

He naturally understood the subtext in Xie Shu Yu's words.

Recently, besides coordinating with Deju Deju Deju Renhe to adjust the organizational structure, Xie Shu Yu had also taken business trips to Modou and the Imperial Capital.

As a boyfriend, his concern had indeed been insufficient.

Hearing his response, Xie Shu Yu finally felt slightly more at ease, letting out a soft "Mm."

Seeing the scene before her, Wen Wen Wen Ruan couldn't help but kick Tang Song under the table with her foot.

Good heavens! So you act this cautious and careful in front of Xie Shu Yu!

But against me, you launch a heavy assault? And you even want me to take the fall!

First Su Yu, then Liu Liu Liu Liu Qingning, and now there's Xu Qing as well.

This is unbearable!

Biting her plump lips, Wen Wen Wen Ruan smiled and said, "Xie Zong, Tang Song is a very meticulous person. His negligence must be due to being too busy with work; I hope you can be understanding."

As she spoke, she gently patted Tang Song's shoulder, looking at him tenderly, her eyes filled with undisguised affection.

Across from them, Xie Shu Yu took a deep breath, striving to maintain her calmness and indifference. "Is that so, Little Song? It seems my care for you usually hasn't been enough."

The fluctuation in her mood caused her form of address to change.

Being stared at simultaneously by two older sisters, Tang Song felt his temples throbbing, as if countless tiny needle points were pricking his nerves.

Just then, a waiter wearing a brown uniform and carrying a tray approached.

"Xie Zong, your coffee is ready."

The gentle voice instantly broke the tense atmosphere.

Tang Song voluntarily stood up, took the coffee, placed it in front of each of them in turn, and thoughtfully set napkins beside their hands.

After sitting back down, Tang Song said softly, "Sister Shu Yu, since the three of us happen to be together today, why don't we discuss the upcoming brand building and marketing strategies for Glimmer Coffee?"

After experiencing the initial nervousness and guilt, Tang Song gradually adjusted himself.

Since he had already committed the deeds of a scumbag, he naturally had to face the responsibilities and the battlefield of lovers that came with it.

Moreover, he knew very well that in Xie Shu Yu's eyes, career was more important than romance, so he directly steered the conversation toward work.

As for Wen Wen Wen Ruan, he would have to compensate her properly later.

Xie Shu Yu nodded, lifted her coffee cup to take a sip, and began discussing online and offline advertising placement strategies with the two of them.

These advertisements were primarily targeted at the flagship stores soon to be opened in other cities.

In this era of internet marketing, leveraging the channels of Nebula International Group, Light and Shadow Media could directly contact many local self-media influencers.

This was crucial for Glimmer Coffee to establish itself.

Actually, she did not want to create conflict with Wen Wen Wen Ruan, fearing that their relationship might cause the other party to take actions detrimental to Glimmer Coffee.

The reason she had appeared so aggressive just now was mainly because she felt uncomfortable.

After all, she was just an ordinary person, incapable of true, absolute calmness.

"Ding-dong—" Her phone vibrated.

Wen Wen Wen Ruan picked up her phone, glanced at it, and subconsciously pressed her plump legs together.

【Tang Song: "Sister, don't be angry. Why don't you go to the restroom first? I'll explain everything to you personally later."】

Seeing the two characters "personally" on the screen, Wen Wen Wen Ruan swallowed.

You little rascal! Are you trying to bribe me?

You underestimate me, Zhuangzhuang! Do you think I'm that kind of person?

Glancing at Tang Song's mouth, Wen Wen Wen Ruan typed a reply: "Three times!"

【Tang Song: "Deal."】

Wen Wen Wen Ruan's heart skipped a beat, her plump chest heaving with excitement.

She had personally experienced just how formidable Tang Song's mouth was.

She couldn't handle it! She really couldn't handle it!

"You two chat first; I'm going to the restroom." Wen Wen Wen Ruan told the pair, then stood up and walked outward.

They watched her figure depart.

Tang Song instantly let out a sigh of relief, directly grasping Xie Shu Yu's hand resting on the table. "I'm sorry, Sister Shu Yu."

Xie Shu Yu fell silent for a moment, then said in a low voice, "This is your right. I said before that I guarantee I won't disturb you, nor will I affect our career."

"But..." Tang Song shamelessly said, "My feelings for you are real and clear; I care very much about your feelings."

Xie Shu Yu raised her eyebrows, unable to help but laugh. "Are you trying to soothe me? Do you think I'm the kind of young girl who loves hearing sweet nothings?"

She, Xie Shu Yu, had navigated the business world for many years; what storms had she not seen? She was long accustomed to remaining unmoved.

Seeing Tang Song actually using tactics between young lovers to deal with her felt very strange.

Tang Song's fingertip rubbed the pulsing pulse at her wrist; gazing into her eyes, he said, "Sister Shu Yu, I have always admired you. Your wisdom, your resilience, your confidence, your authenticity—they make me utterly captivated..."

Tang Song's voice was full of magnetism; his mouth seemed lubricated, pouring out beautiful sweet talk directly.

Added to that were those black-and-white distinct eyes optimized by 【Godly Eye Drops】.

It completely bewildered Xie Shu Yu opposite him; her lips moved, and a thin blush floated onto her face.

Looking at the young man opposite her, for some reason, she felt a youthful fluttering in her heart.

After quite a while, Tang Song finally stopped.

"Smooth talker." Xie Shu Yu murmured, swapping the coffee cup in her hand with the one in front of him. "This is our newly launched 'Autumn Whispers' special blend, currently our flagship single item. The taste is excellent; try it."

"Okay." A look of relief appeared on Tang Song's face; he lifted the coffee cup and took a sip from the spot stained with lipstick.

The texture was mellow, with a hint of sweetness; very nice.

The two of them chatted for a few moments about the taste and sales performance of the new product.

Suddenly, a soft yet magnetic voice came from beside them: "Shu Yu, we're here. Long time no see, Tang Song; I didn't expect you to be here too."

Tang Song turned around and saw two figures walking toward them.

One wore a tight-fitting dress, her figure plump, mature, and beautiful, exuding warmth and intellect.

The other wore a long-sleeved T-shirt and jeans, her figure curvaceous, appearing innocent and fresh.

Standing together, the two presented a stark contrast.

Seeing Teacher Jiang Yourong and Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele suddenly appear, Tang Song's temples throbbed.

Why were there so many coincidences today?

He had finally soothed the older sister and the female CEO, only for more people to arrive.

Although nothing had happened between him and Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele, at the root of it, there were some lingering affections.

And Professor Teacher Jiang, the former assistant to Secretary Jin, also shared a slight ambiguity with him.

If one added the older sister who would be returning soon...

Good heavens, they could directly start a game of Mahjong!

Facing such a grand scene for the first time, he only felt a headache coming on.

"Yourong, Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele." Xie Shu Yu calmly nodded to the two.

Taking a deep breath, Tang Song smiled and said, "Good afternoon, Sister Yourong, Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele."

Teacher Jiang Yourong pursed her lips in a light laugh, her watery peach-blossom eyes examining Tang Song with delight.

University had started several days ago; it was her busiest period.

However, she had also been paying attention to what was happening between Xie Shu Yu and Tang Song.

For instance, their current relationship as lovers.

Or how Tang Song invested 40 million in the Series A round, becoming the majority shareholder of Glimmer Coffee, with the company's post-investment valuation reaching 100 million.

The envy in her heart was indescribable.

No one knew better than she did just how much luck Xie Shu Yu had encountered.

This was Tang Song! The Tang Song who had a deep connection with Jin Meixiao!

"Good afternoon, Xie Zong, Brother Song." Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele, carrying a backpack, bowed slightly, her gaze somewhat evasive.

Looking at this simple Cinderella, Tang Song said in a gentle voice, "Why has the form of address changed after just a few days without meeting? It seems our feelings have faded."

Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele bit her red lips, whispering, "I'm sorry... Brother."

"Hehe, no need to be nervous; I was just joking." Tang Song stood up, patted her head, and asked, "How did you also come to Zhengding Ancient City?"

Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele's face instantly turned rosy red, and she whispered, "I had no classes today, so Professor Teacher Jiang brought me to find Xie Zong."

Teacher Jiang Yourong looked at Tang Song, then at Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele, her expression suddenly turning strange.

She knew this student of hers all too well, and Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele was not good at hiding her feelings.

With her experience and emotional intelligence, she could see through many things at a glance.

Teacher Jiang Yourong lifted her bag in front of her and smiled, "Weiguang Coffee has been making big moves recently. Since your technical department isn't fully set up yet, Sister Shu Yu outsourced part of the work to me, essentially taking care of this poor teacher of mine. I brought Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele along today just to discuss requirements with Sister Shu Yu."

She was a standard product of formal education, holding a PhD in Computer Science and serving as an associate university professor, so she naturally possessed such capability.

"I see." Tang Song nodded and calmly explained to Xie Sister Shu Yu, "I stayed in the faculty apartments for half a month previously and have a very good relationship with Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele."

"Mm." Xie Sister Shu Yu's eyes flickered as she seriously examined Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele before her for the first time.

Sensing her gaze, Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele subconsciously straightened her body, which trembled slightly.

Tang Song paced over to stand before Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele, asking a few caring questions about her studies and part-time job.

Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele answered in a soft voice, her face filled with awkwardness and nervousness.

She and Professor Teacher Jiang had actually arrived earlier, just in time to see Tang Song and Xie Zong holding hands and exchanging coffee.

The meaning behind this was self-evident.

She was a very intelligent person with a clear understanding of herself, which was why she had actively tried to shift her feelings for Tang Song toward friendship. However, the kiss on the Happy Qixi night had shattered that notion into pieces.

Recently, she often found herself zoning out and dreaming, her mind filled entirely with scenes from that moment.

At this moment, standing before Xie Sister Shu Yu and Tang Song, she felt like a thief.

Beside them, Teacher Jiang Yourong suddenly said, "By the way, Tang Song, if I remember correctly, you are currently working in fashion e-commerce, right?"

"Mm." Tang Song nodded, turning his gaze toward Professor Teacher Jiang.

Teacher Jiang Yourong smiled gently, "A classmate of mine from my doctoral studies co-founded a technology company after graduation."

"They mainly develop data intelligence SaaS products for the apparel industry, utilizing emerging AI technology to help clothing enterprises and designers with trend forecasting, design empowerment, and more."

"They are currently one of the most prominent companies in this field. Moreover, their technology has just achieved a breakthrough, and I think they even have the potential to become a unicorn. Would you consider collaborating with them?"

Regarding the man who had Liu Liu Liu Liu Jia Yi as his driver, she had never given up on the idea of getting closer to him and had been secretly investigating Tang Song's situation.

She knew that his main focus was currently on a company named "Songmei Apparel."

Not a single mistake, not a single omission, every detail contained within!

Therefore, she paid close attention to news in this area.

Introducing him to this partner company this time was also an attempt to interact with him as much as possible.

Hearing the word "unicorn," Tang Song's heart stirred slightly.

The most difficult part of his 【Stage Three Growth Plan Mission】 was investing in three companies with unicorn potential.

There were some such companies on the market, but they had already entered the capital market, with numerous institutions fighting to invest in them, so they lacked no funds.

Finding companies in their early or mid-stages was not easy.

Furthermore, since this company was related to both apparel and AI, if it was truly as Teacher Jiang Yourong described, it would also benefit the completion of his other two growth plan missions.

After thinking for a moment, Tang Song asked, "Sister Yourong, does this company have financing needs?"

Hearing his words, Teacher Jiang Yourong paused for a moment, "They are developing very smoothly. They completed a Series B financing round worth tens of millions of US dollars last year and are currently planning for a Series B+ round."

Hearing this, Tang Song's eyes lit up, "I am very interested. Send me the details of this company later."

"Uh..." Teacher Jiang Yourong instantly understood, a look of surprise flashing in her eyes, "Okay, I will organize the information carefully, and we can discuss the details later."

"Okay, thank you, Sister Yourong."

Teacher Jiang Yourong's eyes flickered, and she was about to say something when—

A tall and voluptuous figure suddenly approached, standing intimately beside Tang Song.

Dressed in a tight cycling suit, she looked sexy and charming, extremely captivating.

"I'm back!" Wen Wen Wen Ruan wore a bright smile on her face as she looked at Tang Song and said, "Ran into friends again?"

As she spoke, her gaze shifted toward Teacher Jiang Yourong and Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele.

"Mm." Tang Song smiled awkwardly and introduced them, "This is Professor Teacher Jiang Yourong from Yancheng Normal University, and this is Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele."

Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele's mouth felt parched as she stared blankly at the woman who had suddenly appeared.

"Hello to you both, I am Wen Wen Wen Ruan." Wen Wen Wen Ruan smiled and waved at the two, appearing very friendly.

Teacher Jiang Yourong remained calm and natural as she replied, "Hello."

"Hello." Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele lowered her head slightly, her expression somewhat flustered.

Noticing Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele's abnormality, Tang Song moved his lips but ultimately said nothing.

This was probably for the best.

He had said long ago that he hoped Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele would understand the real him.

To this innocent Cinderella, he did indeed feel quite fond, greatly appreciating the simplicity and strength she possessed.

However, he also knew clearly that what Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele liked more was the "Academic God Tang Song" she had lived with.

Perhaps after seeing his true character, the seed sprouting in her heart would slowly wither away.

The group exchanged a few simple pleasantries, the atmosphere becoming exceptionally strange.

Tang Song took a deep breath and said, "Sister Sister Shu Yu, we won't disturb your work any longer; Wen Wen Wen Ruan and I will continue touring the ancient city."

Xie Sister Shu Yu pressed her lips together, "Mm, stay safe on the road."

Tang Song turned toward Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele, "Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele, Sister Yourong, we're leaving now. Bye-bye."

Wen Wen Wen Ruan affectionately hugged Xie Sister Shu Yu, "Xie Zong, I'm still waiting for that meal from you, remember to invite me when you have time. Oh, and take it easy with work; don't overwork yourself."

"Mm, thanks for your concern." Xie Sister Shu Yu met her gaze with complex eyes.

"Bye-bye." "Bye-bye."...

They watched until the figures of the two disappeared at the entrance of the coffee shop.

Through the bright glass window, Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Qian Lele could clearly see Tang Song taking Wen Wen Wen Ruan's hand.

The scene before her eyes created an indescribable impact on her heart.

Xie Zong... Wen Wen Wen Ruan...

They and Brother Tang Song...

How could this be? How was this allowed?

After walking along the stone-paved roads of the ancient city for a while,

Wen Wen Wen Ruan suddenly leaned in and bit Tang Song on the chin.

"Hiss~" Tang Song sucked in a breath and said sheepishly, "Still angry?"

Wen Wen Wen Ruan "hmphed," then pinched his arm, "Let's get one thing straight: three times, not one less. Whenever I want it, you must give it."

"No problem, I guarantee to satisfy Big Sister!" Tang Song agreed with extra enthusiasm.

Today was originally meant for accompanying Wen Wen Wen Ruan on her cycling trip, but encountering this situation left him feeling very guilty.

Moreover, just now in the coffee shop, the big sister had behaved very considerately, preventing the battlefield of lovers from truly igniting.

In the end, she had even taken the initiative to express goodwill toward Xie Sister Shu Yu.

"Hehe, did you do something guilty, that's why you're being so obedient now?" Wen Wen Wen Ruan leaned close to his ear, nibbling his earlobe, "What if I made you do it for me in the office?"

Tang Song's eyelids twitched, "This... wouldn't that be inappropriate?"

"I think it's quite fine." Wen Wen Wen Ruan chuckled softly, hooked her arm through his, and continued teasing him as they walked forward.

In the afternoon, the two continued cycling along the riverside greenway.

The pink muhly grass planted on both sides of the riverbank had begun to turn red, forming a richly layered waterfront landscape together with the colorful vegetation.

The tranquility and poetry of autumn enveloped the two of them.

When they grew tired of riding, they spent some time playing AR PUBG and go-kart games on Hutuohe Art Ecological Island.

On the return journey, the two rode very slowly.

By the time they returned to the riverside parking spot, the sky had already darkened.

After securing the road bikes to the roof rack and organizing the trunk,

Wen Wen Wen Ruan handed driving control over to Tang Song, curled up in the passenger seat, and tapped her fingertips lightly against the window, smiling as she asked, "Were you happy today?"

Tang Song fastened his seatbelt, leaned back in the sports seat, and looked at her, "Of course I was happy."

Wen Wen Wen Ruan blinked, reached out, and placed her hand on his lower abdomen, "Do you want to be even happier?"

Tang Song's eyes lit up, "Yes!"

"Drive then, I'll handle the navigation."

"Vroom vroom—" The roar of the engine erupted as the Audi RS6 accelerated from a standstill.

A few minutes later, the car turned into a quiet little path and stopped under the shade of trees.

The two climbed into the back seat and locked the windows.

In the darkness, a "zip" sound rang out as the zipper of the tight cycling jacket was pulled down.

A snow-white, high-collared base layer sprang forth; her ponytail was undone, and long curly hair cascaded down like a waterfall.

Tang Song rubbed the big sister's sweat-dampened bangs, his fingertips stained with starlight and autumn dew.

Wen Wen Wen Ruan's heart trembled chaotically, "Continuous curves ahead—please do not frequently change speed, as it may cause accidents."

"Turn it off." Tang Song pulled open his collar, "For this kind of road condition, I have my own navigation system."

The night flowed silently, leaves slowly drifted down, swaying in the darkness.

Tang Song leaned against the seat back, gazing at that silhouette resembling a statue of the ancient Greek goddess of beauty, feeling an unprecedented thrill that made his soul leave his body.

In a daze, a crisp system notification sounded in his ear.

"Ding! Congratulations, Player. The Partner-Zhao Zhao Zhao Yaqian Cultivation Plan Mission 5 【Exquisite Canary】 is complete."

"【Partner-Zhao Zhao Zhao Yaqian】 Growth Progress +10%."

"【Partner-Zhao Zhao Zhao Yaqian】 gained 【Constitution +1】."

"【Partner-Zhao Zhao Zhao Yaqian】 gained 【Stamina +2】."

"【Partner-Zhao Zhao Zhao Yaqian】 gained 【Agility +2】."

"【Partner-Zhao Zhao Zhao Yaqian】 gained 【Canary's Item Gift Pack *1】."

"Whoosh!" The system light curtain automatically unfolded before him.

【September 9, 2023: Under your guidance and assistance, "Zhao Zhao Zhao Yaqian" has exceeded 60% growth progress, reaching the qualified standard.】

【During her growth, "Zhao Zhao Zhao Yaqian" received emotional care and companionship from her partner; her body and mind have remained in a very healthy state, and her love for you is surging and fervent, chaste and loyal.】

【You have received sincere feedback from "Partner-Zhao Zhao Zhao Yaqian": Charm +1, Stamina +2.】

Tang Song's thoughts quickly gathered, and a thick joy flashed in his eyes.

Qian Qian's Mission 5 was finally complete!

He had also received the feedback of 【Charm +1】, along with a stamina bonus.

At the same time, both of his current partners were now qualified.

This also meant he had obtained a new partner slot!

Nowadays, his charm improvement was slowing down increasingly; it was foreseeable that future partners would become an important method of improvement, something he could not afford not to value highly.

"Hey!" A seductive voice tinged with fire suddenly came from beside his ear, belonging to the big sister, "Little boy, don't tell me you're incapable?"

"Just don't you cry later." Tang Song exhaled and gripped her firm waist.

"If you have the ability, then try it."

A laugh brimming with charm echoed through the carriage, like the wind of September, stirring the heartstrings.

Stroking the big sister's solid back, several names popped into Tang Song's mind.

Liu Liu Liu Liu Qingning, Lin Empress Mu Xue, Xu Qing, Xie Sister Shu Yu, Supervisor Tian Jing...

Who should be the next partner?

(End of Chapter)