[6:30 PM - Jianghai Bay Villa]
Chen Wei stood in his spacious kitchen, moving with surprising confidence as he prepared dinner. The system's temporary cooking skill had activated when he'd decided to cook for Xiao Yue.
[Temporary Skill Activated: Master Chef (Intermediate)]
[Duration: 4 hours]
[Effect: Instinctive knowledge of cooking techniques, flavor combinations, and presentation]
He was preparing a multi-course meal: pan-seared salmon with herb butter, roasted vegetables, a light salad with homemade dressing, and for dessert, molten chocolate cake. Nothing too extravagant—he wanted it to feel personal, not like showing off.
The doorbell rang at exactly 7:00 PM.
Chen Wei wiped his hands, checked his appearance in the hallway mirror—he'd changed into casual designer clothes, a fitted black shirt and dark jeans—and opened the door.
Xiao Yue stood there, and Chen Wei's breath caught.
She wore a simple but elegant red dress that hugged her curves perfectly, her hair falling in soft waves around her shoulders. She'd applied light makeup that enhanced her natural beauty, and she carried a small overnight bag.
"Hi," she said softly, a shy smile on her lips. "Is this okay? Not too fancy?"
"You're perfect," Chen Wei said honestly. "Come in."
As Xiao Yue entered, she inhaled deeply. "Oh my god, what is that smell? It's incredible!"
"Dinner," Chen Wei said, taking her bag and setting it aside. "I hope you're hungry."
"Starving," Xiao Yue admitted, following him to the kitchen. When she saw the elaborate meal preparation, her eyes widened. "Chen Wei! You made all this?"
"For you," he said simply. "Come on, everything's almost ready. Let's eat on the terrace—the view is beautiful tonight."
Chen Wei had set up the rooftop terrace with soft lighting, candles, and a small table for two. The city sparkled below them, and a warm breeze carried the scent of night-blooming flowers from the garden.
"This is like a dream," Xiao Yue whispered as she took her seat. "I keep thinking I'm going to wake up and you'll be gone."
Chen Wei poured her wine—a nice Sauvignon Blanc, not too expensive but quality—and raised his glass. "I'm very real. And I'm not going anywhere."
They clinked glasses, and Chen Wei served the first course.
[Romantic Atmosphere: +50% to emotional connection]
[Xiao Yue already at maximum favorability - Effect: Relationship depth increases]
As they ate, conversation flowed easily. Xiao Yue told him about her day—her classes, her friends' reactions to seeing her with Chen Wei, the gossip spreading across campus.
"Everyone's talking about you now," she said, taking a bite of salmon. "This is amazing, by the way. Where did you learn to cook like this?"
"Hidden talent," Chen Wei said with a mysterious smile. "What are they saying?"
"That you're the most eligible bachelor on campus now. That you humiliated Liu Meng and Zhang Hao. That you're rich and handsome and mysterious." She paused, looking at him over her wine glass. "Some girls are already asking me how I 'caught' you so quickly."
"And what did you tell them?"
"That I didn't catch you. We caught each other." Xiao Yue set down her glass, her expression turning serious. "Chen Wei, can I ask you something?"
"Anything."
"What we have—it's real, right? This isn't just... I don't know, a rebound thing after Liu Meng? Because I'm falling for you really fast, and I need to know if—"
Chen Wei reached across the table and took her hand, cutting off her worried words.
"Xiao Yue, listen to me. What I had with Liu Meng was comfortable but shallow. We stayed together out of habit, not passion. What I feel with you in three days is more real than two years with her ever was." He squeezed her hand gently. "You see me—not my money, not my status, just me. That's rare. That's precious. And yes, it's absolutely real."
[Emotional Connection Deepened!]
[New Relationship Status: Xiao Yue - Girlfriend (Deeply Committed)]
[Passive Buff Upgraded: "True Love's Blessing" - Increased luck and fortune when together]
Tears welled up in Xiao Yue's eyes. "I'm so glad I met you that night at the restaurant."
"So am I."
They finished dinner slowly, savoring both the food and each other's company. When dessert came—the molten chocolate cake perfectly timed—Xiao Yue actually moaned at the first bite.
"Oh my god, this is sinful. How are you not fat if you can cook like this?"
Chen Wei laughed. "I just learned recently. You're my first test subject."
"I volunteer to be your permanent taste tester," Xiao Yue declared, taking another bite.
After dinner, they moved to the comfortable outdoor sofa on the terrace, cuddling close despite the warm evening. The city lights created a romantic backdrop, and soft music played from the villa's outdoor speakers.
"Tell me about your family," Chen Wei said, his arm around her shoulders. "You mentioned your parents have a restaurant?"
"Mmm," Xiao Yue nestled closer. "A small noodle shop in the old district. They've run it for twenty years. It's not fancy, but the food is good and the customers are loyal. They work really hard."
"That's admirable. And your brother?"
"Little troublemaker," Xiao Yue said with affection. "He's sixteen, in high school. Smart but lazy. Drives my parents crazy." She paused. "They're going to love you, by the way."
"How do you know?"
"Because you're successful but kind. Because you treat me well. Because..." she tilted her head up to look at him, "because I love you, and they'll see that."
The words hung in the air between them. Chen Wei's heart pounded.
"You love me?" he asked softly.
Xiao Yue's cheeks flushed, but she didn't look away. "I know it's fast. I know we just met. But yes. I love you, Chen Wei. I can't help it."
[Major Relationship Milestone!]
[Xiao Yue has confessed her love!]
[Respond honestly to maintain relationship integrity]
Chen Wei cupped her face gently with both hands. "I love you too, Xiao Yue. I didn't think I could feel this way so quickly, but I do. You're everything I didn't know I needed."
Their kiss was deep, passionate, full of emotion. When they finally broke apart, both were breathless.
"Stay tonight," Chen Wei whispered against her lips. "I'm not asking for... I just want you here. Want to fall asleep with you and wake up with you."
"I was hoping you'd ask," Xiao Yue admitted. "That's why I brought the overnight bag."
They moved inside, and Chen Wei showed her to the master bedroom. The tension between them was electric, but also tender.
"I'm going to change," Xiao Yue said, taking her bag into the bathroom.
While she was gone, Chen Wei changed into comfortable sleepwear—simple black silk pants and a t-shirt. His heart was racing. He'd been intimate with Liu Meng before, but this felt completely different. More meaningful. More intense.
Xiao Yue emerged from the bathroom wearing a delicate nightgown—not overtly sexy, but beautiful and feminine. Her hair was down, makeup removed, revealing her natural beauty.
"Hi," she said shyly.
"Hi," Chen Wei replied, his voice husky.
They stood there for a moment, the air thick with anticipation. Then Xiao Yue crossed the room and wrapped her arms around him.
"I'm nervous," she admitted against his chest.
"Me too," Chen Wei confessed. "We don't have to—"
"I want to," Xiao Yue interrupted, looking up at him. "I want all of you, Chen Wei. I trust you completely."
What followed was tender and passionate, gentle and intense all at once. Chen Wei took his time, making sure Xiao Yue felt cherished and desired. Her soft gasps and whispered "I love you"s made his heart soar.
[Intimate Moment Achieved - Maximum Connection]
[Xiao Yue Bond: Unbreakable]
[New Passive Buff: "Soulmate Connection" - You can sense each other's emotions even when apart]
[Reward: +10 Charisma, +5 Confidence, +3 Emotional Intelligence]
Afterward, they lay tangled together in the massive bed, the city lights visible through the floor-to-ceiling windows, a gentle breeze coming through the slightly open terrace door.
"That was..." Xiao Yue trailed off, her fingers tracing patterns on Chen Wei's chest.
"Perfect," Chen Wei finished, pressing a kiss to her forehead.
"I was going to say 'incredible,' but perfect works too." She propped herself up on one elbow, looking down at him with soft eyes. "Chen Wei?"
"Hmm?"
"Promise me something."
"Anything."
"No matter how much your life changes—no matter how rich or successful you become—promise you'll stay you. The kind, genuine man I fell in love with."
Chen Wei pulled her back down, holding her close. "I promise. You keep me grounded, Xiao Yue. You remind me what really matters."
They talked quietly for another hour before sleep finally claimed them, wrapped in each other's arms.
[Next Morning - 8:30 AM]
Chen Wei woke to find Xiao Yue already awake, watching him with a soft smile.
"Morning," she whispered. "I didn't want to wake you. You looked so peaceful."
"Morning, beautiful," Chen Wei replied, pulling her in for a kiss. "Sleep well?"
"Best sleep of my life," Xiao Yue admitted. "But I need to get to class soon. 9:30 lecture."
"Let me drive you," Chen Wei offered.
"In your Mercedes? Everyone will definitely know we're together then."
"Good," Chen Wei said firmly. "I want everyone to know you're mine."
[Possessive Romantic Gesture: +5 to relationship security]
Xiao Yue blushed with pleasure. "Okay then. But I need to shower first."
"Want company?" Chen Wei asked with a playful grin.
"Absolutely," Xiao Yue said, taking his hand.
[9:45 AM - Starlight Entertainment Office]
Chen Wei arrived at his office fifteen minutes early, still riding the high from his night and morning with Xiao Yue. His assistant, Xiao Min, greeted him with nervous excitement.
"Mr. Chen! Mr. Sun Wei from Star Capital arrived early. He's waiting in your office—I hope that's okay!"
"That's fine, thank you."
Chen Wei entered his office to find Sun Wei standing by the window, admiring the view. He was in his early fifties, distinguished-looking with silver-streaked hair, wearing an expensive but understated suit.
"Mr. Sun," Chen Wei said, extending his hand. "Thank you for coming."
Sun Wei turned and shook his hand firmly. "Chen Wei. I have to say, you're even more composed than I expected for someone so young. Yesterday's performance at the university was impressive—both your restraint and your strategic thinking."
"Just defending my reputation, sir."
"Please, call me Sun Wei. And it was more than that. You turned a potential disaster into a demonstration of power and legitimacy. That takes skill." He gestured to the seating area. "Shall we talk business?"
They sat, and Sun Wei pulled out a tablet. "I've done my research on Starlight Entertainment. Zhou Feng ran it into the ground through poor management and bad investments. But the assets are solid—good talent roster, decent contracts now that you're restructuring them, prime location."
"You've been thorough," Chen Wei observed.
"Always. Now, here's what I'm proposing: Star Capital invests ¥20 million in Starlight Entertainment for a 30% stake. You retain controlling interest, but we provide capital, business connections, and strategic guidance."
[Business Genius Analyzing...]
[Analysis: Excellent offer. Fair valuation, useful connections, reasonable equity split]
[Recommendation: Negotiate to 25% equity, accept deal]
"The capital and connections are attractive," Chen Wei said carefully. "But 30% is steep for a company I just acquired. I'd be more comfortable with 25%."
Sun Wei smiled. "You negotiate well. Most young entrepreneurs would just accept the first offer. 25% it is, but I want monthly strategy meetings and transparency on major decisions."
"Agreed," Chen Wei said, extending his hand.
They shook, and Sun Wei pulled out pre-prepared contracts. "My lawyers can finalize this by end of week. But Chen Wei, I need to know—what's your vision? Where do you see this company in five years?"
Chen Wei leaned forward, his Business Genius skill providing insights. "Entertainment is evolving. Streaming, digital content, social media stars—these are the future. I want Starlight to be ahead of that curve. We'll still do traditional talent management, but we'll also develop digital content, partner with streaming platforms, maybe even produce our own shows."
Sun Wei's eyes gleamed with approval. "Ambitious. I like it. And you've already hired Lin Yue as legal counsel—smart move. She's the best in the business."
"She's also brilliant and insightful," Chen Wei added, remembering their upcoming Thursday evening.
"Just be careful with that one," Sun Wei said with a knowing smile. "Lin Yue is famously cold to romantic advances. Many powerful men have tried and failed."
"I'm not most men," Chen Wei said confidently.
Sun Wei laughed. "No, I suppose you're not. My daughter's roommate—Xiao Yue—she had nothing but good things to say about you this morning. Said you're the most genuine man she's ever met."
Chen Wei felt warmth spread through his chest at the mention of Xiao Yue.
"She's special," Chen Wei said simply.
"Clearly. Well, I won't keep you. I'm sure you have a busy day." Sun Wei stood, and they shook hands again. "Welcome to the big leagues, Chen Wei. I think you're going to do very well."
[Mission Progress: Build Your Empire]
[Task 2: Make a profitable investment - COMPLETE! (¥20M investment secured)]
[Task 3: Gain recognition in Jianghai business circles - 75% Complete]
[New Achievement: Major Investor Secured]
[Reward: +15 Business Acumen, +10 Status Points, "Investment Genius" skill unlocked]
After Sun Wei left, Chen Wei had fifteen minutes before his lunch with Tang Xin. He used the time to review some contracts when his phone buzzed.
Lin Yue: "I heard Sun Wei visited you this morning. Congratulations on the investment. You're making quite a name for yourself. Looking forward to Thursday even more now. -LY"
Chen Wei smiled and replied.
Chen Wei: "Thank you. And Thursday can't come fast enough. I've been thinking about you."
Lin Yue: "Careful, Mr. Chen. Comments like that make it hard to maintain my professional composure. See you in two days. -LY"
Another message came in from Xiao Yue.
Xiao Yue: "Made it to class! Still thinking about last night... and this morning. 😊❤️ Love you!"
Chen Wei: "Love you too. Dinner tonight at the villa? I'll cook again."
Xiao Yue: "Perfect! Can I bring some of my things? Maybe stay over a few nights this week?"
Chen Wei: "Bring everything. Move in if you want. I love waking up next to you."
Xiao Yue: "Careful, I might take you up on that! 😍 See you tonight!"
Chen Wei was grinning at his phone when Xiao Min knocked.
"Mr. Chen? Miss Tang Xin is here for lunch."
"Send her in."
Tang Xin entered, looking nervous but excited. Today she wore a casual sundress that showed off her elegant figure, her hair pulled back in a ponytail that made her look younger, more vulnerable.
"Chen Wei!" she said, her face lighting up when she saw him. "Thank you so much for making time for me."
"Of course. I promised you lunch, didn't I?" Chen Wei stood and grabbed his jacket. "There's a great Italian place nearby. Let's go."
[12:15 PM - Bella Vista Restaurant]
The Italian restaurant was upscale but comfortable, with private booths that allowed for intimate conversation. Chen Wei had specifically chosen it for the privacy.
Once they'd ordered—Tang Xin insisting she'd eat anything, clearly not used to expensive restaurants—Chen Wei got down to business.
"I have good news. I've found your first major role."
Tang Xin's eyes went wide. "Already?! But it's only been a day!"
"I move fast when I see potential," Chen Wei said. "There's an independent film director, Wang Ming, who's looking for a fresh face for his next project. It's a coming-of-age drama about a young woman finding herself after loss. The lead role. I've already spoken to him, sent him your demo reel. He wants to meet you next week."
Tang Xin's hand flew to her mouth, tears forming in her eyes. "The... the lead role? Chen Wei, that's... I don't know what to say."
"Say you'll prepare for the audition and knock it out of the park," Chen Wei said with a smile.
"Yes! Absolutely yes!" Tang Xin said, then her expression turned worried. "But what if I mess up? What if I'm not good enough? What if—"
Chen Wei reached across the table and gently took her hand, cutting off her spiral of anxiety.
"Tang Xin, listen to me. You are good enough. You're talented, dedicated, and you have something special that can't be taught—genuine emotion. You just need to believe in yourself as much as I believe in you."
[Emotional Support Provided]
[Tang Xin Favorability: 73/100 → 84/100]
[Status: Emotionally Invested → Falling In Love]
Tang Xin stared at their joined hands, then up at his face. "Why are you so kind to me? You barely know me."
"Because everyone deserves someone who believes in them," Chen Wei said honestly. "And because I see something in you worth nurturing. You remind me of myself a week ago—full of potential but overlooked."
A tear rolled down Tang Xin's cheek. "Chen Wei..."
"Hey, no crying," Chen Wei said gently, releasing her hand to offer a napkin. "This is supposed to be a celebration."
Tang Xin laughed through her tears, dabbing at her eyes. "Sorry, I'm just overwhelmed. Good overwhelmed." She looked at him with something intense in her eyes. "You're really special, you know that? Whoever ends up with you is incredibly lucky."
[System Alert: Tang Xin's feelings are intensifying]
[Warning: She is developing romantic feelings. Handle carefully to avoid complications with existing relationships]
"I'm actually seeing someone," Chen Wei said gently, wanting to be honest. "Her name is Xiao Yue. We're together."
He saw the brief flash of disappointment in Tang Xin's eyes before she quickly masked it with a smile.
"Oh! That's... that's wonderful. She must be amazing."
"She is," Chen Wei said. "But that doesn't change anything about us professionally. I'm still completely committed to making you a star, Tang Xin. That's a promise."
"Thank you," Tang Xin said softly. "For everything. And I'm happy you found someone. You deserve that."
[Tang Xin Favorability: 84/100 → 86/100]
[Status: Falling In Love → Deeply Attracted But Respectful]
[System Note: Tang Xin has chosen to respect your relationship while maintaining her feelings. This is healthy management of romantic interests.]
Their food arrived, and they spent the next hour discussing Tang Xin's career strategy, the audition preparation, and her dreams for the future. Despite the brief moment of romantic tension, the conversation remained warm and supportive.
As they finished lunch, Chen Wei's phone rang. Unknown number.
"Excuse me," he said to Tang Xin, answering. "Hello?"
"Is this Chen Wei?" A cold, authoritative male voice. "This is Zhao Ming, head of city business bureau. We need to speak about some irregularities in your recent business acquisition. Please come to my office immediately."
Chen Wei's stomach dropped. "Irregularities? What kind of—"
"Immediately, Mr. Chen. Or we'll be forced to freeze your assets pending investigation."
The line went dead.
[System Alert: Zhang Hao's Retaliation Has Begun!]
[Warning: Powerful enemies are attempting to destroy your business]
[New Emergency Mission: Clear Your Name]
[Reward: +20 Status Points, "Untouchable" title, Political Connections]
[Failure: Company shutdown, reputation destroyed, potential legal consequences]
Chen Wei's jaw tightened. So Zhang Hao had called in favors to attack him through official channels.
"Chen Wei? Is everything okay?" Tang Xin asked, seeing his expression.
"I need to handle something urgent," Chen Wei said, his mind already racing. "Can you get back to the office okay?"
"Of course, but—"
"I'll explain later. Trust me." He stood, then paused. "Actually, can you do me a favor? Call Lin Yue's office and tell her I need her legal expertise immediately. Tell her it's urgent."
"Okay," Tang Xin said, pulling out her phone.
As Chen Wei headed for his car, his phone buzzed with a message from an unknown number.
Unknown: "Thought you could humiliate me and get away with it? My father has connections you can't imagine. By tomorrow, you'll lose everything. Enjoy your last day as a 'successful businessman.' -ZH"
Chen Wei's expression turned cold and determined.
Zhang Hao wanted war?
He was about to learn that Chen Wei wasn't the same powerless student he used to be.