Maxing Out Charisma, Inheriting Game Assets Chapter 793: Xu Qing: I Have Hemorrhoids!
Yancheng, Songmei Apparel, President's Office.
He hung up the phone.
Tang Song casually placed his phone on the desk.
He leaned back into the high-backed chair, lowered his head, and fell into a brief silence.
After his Charm value broke through 90, the most core, and most sensitive asset he inherited was the control over this [Crown Bank].
The reason he had remained inactive since returning to the country, even deliberately delaying contact with Anne Kate, was mainly due to the special nature and danger of this asset.
It was completely different from those transparent, compliant giants operating under the [Tangjin Family Office].
This Swiss private bank, founded in 1838, was a completely independent, gray private treasury constructed by "Dream Tang Song" through extraordinary means.
For the current him, it was an unknown deep-water zone.
Once he brought it from the shadows into the light, placing it on the table of the Tangjin System, the few people closest to him, especially Secretary Jin and Ouyang Xianyue, would instantly understand many things.This would inevitably cause them immense psychological shock, potentially even damaging the existing trust and balance.
Especially Secretary Jin.
Anne Kate was her closest friend since university days, and it was she who originally introduced Anne into this circle.
If she discovered that he had secretly, behind her back, gained control over Anne through covert means...
It would definitely hurt Secretary Jin.
Moreover, Anne Kate herself was no easy character.
Greed and wildness flowed in her bones; she was ambitious and adept at leveraging situations.
Once formally bestowed with this "crown," granted the nominal and partial substantive power to preside over it publicly,
She would inevitably use this as an opportunity to stir up waves.
At that time, the situation might become complex and difficult to control.
Yet, this step was also inevitable.
Now, he had gradually glimpsed the true strategic intent behind the layout of that "Dream Tang Song."
This could be seen from the gradually resurfacing memory fragments from late 2020.
Back then, he was already preparing for rainy days, setting up contingency plans in advance for a possible future power vacuum.
Looking at his current business empire, it was actually supported by two forces.
One was the industrial group centered around Ouyang Xianyue and the deep-rooted local political and business foundations.
The other was the global financial capital network and overseas strategic layout with Secretary Jin as the absolute hub.
Both were powerful, yet they also implied a potential need for checks and balances.
And this [Crown Bank] was probably the third force meticulously prepared by "Dream Tang Song."
Its purpose was not to replace or weaken the former two, but to maintain the dynamic stability of the entire system and guarantee his personal absolute authority.
After all, "Dream Tang Song" could not be one hundred percent certain.
Whether the [Dream System] that granted him everything would suddenly disappear on April 1st, 2023.
Whether those once quantifiable loyalty and favorability data would become invalid.
What the landscape of the assets, wealth, and connections he created would look like then.
Under that premise, a robust system with inherent checks and balances, not entirely reliant on personal emotions or single loyalties, was the safest choice.
So-called "harem struggles" or emotional entanglements might have been utterly unimportant to the "Dream Tang Song" who laid out this plan.
What he pursued was structural stability transcending personal relationships.
Ensuring that no matter how the future changed, the real him could inherit everything smoothly and completely.
And firmly occupy the apex within a triangular structure of mutual restraint and interconnection.
The final remaining crucial piece of the puzzle was the [Crown Bank].
This was also why, when his Charm reached 90 and he officially entered the family office, he simultaneously gained control of this bank.
It had to be said, these calculations were cold-blooded, but very effective.
If it were the real him, he definitely couldn't be so ruthless.
There was another important reason for choosing to contact Anne at this time.
His birthday was approaching.
Given it was his birthday, Secretary Jin would probably be more indulgent towards him, right?
Thinking of this, Tang Song felt a momentary pang of guilt.
Turning his gaze back to the computer screen, he clicked open the chat window with Secretary Jin.
He typed: "I love you."
Clicked send.
Only then did his heart feel somewhat at peace.
It was still early morning in London at this time. He wondered what expression Secretary Jin would have when she woke up and saw this message.
Smiling, Tang Song tidied up his chaotic thoughts.
He walked out of the office and headed straight to the photography studio area.
The place was brightly lit, the sound of camera shutters rising and falling one after another.
The air was filled with a creative, fashionable atmosphere.
"Good! Hold that look! Excellent!"
"Qianqian, relax your shoulders a bit more, yes! Perfect!"
"Watch the leg line! Amazing, you were born for the camera!"
The excited voice of the photography director echoed through the studio.
In the center of the lens, Zhao Yaqian was striking poses according to instructions.
She seemed to thoroughly enjoy this process of being captured by the camera, of presenting herself.
Her face wore a focused, bright radiance, no longer that of the usually carefree beautician, but with an added touch of a model's confidence.
Her cousin He Yiyi, as the host, was nearby, filming some interactive shots.
Lingling was enthusiastically picking out outfits in front of the clothing rack, her eyes sparkling as if playing a dress-up game.
The few of them were clearly having a great time, the atmosphere in the studio relaxed and cheerful.
Tang Song stood not far from the entrance, smiling as he watched this scene.
The beautician was actually only 19, her bones filled with the liveliness and curiosity unique to this age. She liked new things and yearned to make friends.
And her final cultivation task, [The Kept Bird's Enlightenment], was for her to find absolute inner peace, firmness, and a sense of belonging, to truly take flight.
Apart from nurturing her, appropriately introducing her into his own more diverse, positive social circle was part of Tang Song's plan.
It seemed the effect was quite good.
Zhao Yaqian seemed to sense something. Her gaze passed over the bright studio lights and caught Tang Song standing at the edge of the light and shadow.
Her bright, beautiful face immediately blossomed into a smile. Subconsciously, she raised her hand to call out to him as she usually would, but suddenly realized there were staff all around. Her movement instantly halted.
She sheepishly stuck out her tongue, quickly lowered her hand, and two faint blushes flew onto her fair cheeks.
Her distraction caused the surrounding staff to notice Tang Song following her gaze.
The shoot paused, and everyone greeted him warmly.
"President Tang!" "President Tang is here!" "Hello, boss!"
Tang Song smiled and nodded to everyone, his expression gentle, then confidently walked over.
"Am I interrupting your work?"
"No, not at all!" Lingling quickly waved her hands. "We're almost done with the scheduled content. Qianqian really has a great sense for the camera. She's tall with long legs, a great head-to-body ratio, practically a clothes hanger, everything looks good on her."
As she spoke, a trace of envy couldn't help but leak into her tone.
Unlike her own pear-shaped figure, Zhao Yaqian had a standard model's physique—narrow shoulders, slender waist, long legs—truly perfect for the camera.
Thinking this, she couldn't help but glance at those perfect wineglass legs again.
Senior really is playing collector! Not letting go of any type of "scenery."
Wondering if his body can handle it.
They chatted casually for a while about the fun during the shoot.
Lingling's eyes rolled, and she leaned in closer with a mischievous grin, using a pleading tone: "President Tang, after we wrap up, we're planning to go find a nice place for a good meal with Yiyi, Qianqian, and Qiuqiu, to reward ourselves. Look, we're a small group gathering top-tier looks, guaranteed to be a feast for the eyes! Would you like to join us? This is a rare opportunity!"
Tang Song was amused by her "this chance won't come again" expression.
He shook his head, his tone carrying just the right amount of regret: "Very sorry, I do have plans for the evening, an old classmates' dinner. Next time for sure. However, I won't join for the meal, but I can pick up the tab. You've all worked hard today, have fun. Remember to keep the receipts, I'll reimburse you in full."
"Wow! Boss is generous!"
"Thank you, President Tang!"
Zhao Yaqian also playfully blinked, drawing out her tone, her voice crisp and clear: "Thank you, President Tang~"
She seemed to find this form of address particularly amusing and called out again: "President Tang is so handsome!"
A joyful atmosphere flowed through the studio.
Looking at these young, beautiful girls, Tang Song was also infected by this mood, his spirits relaxing considerably.
He casually took the high-end DSLR camera from the photographer's hands and personally stepped in to start shooting.
Photography had always been an important hidden hobby of his.
After all, when spending time with rich, beautiful women, he had studied composition and lighting quite a bit to record the beautiful moments.
...
By the time he left the photography studio and returned to his office, Tang Song's mood had completely brightened.
Sitting back in the spacious executive chair, he switched the computer screen interface.
A real photo of an incredibly futuristic superyacht appeared in the center of the screen.
Its entire body exhibited a high-end polar white, with six decks, sleek and sharp lines, breathtakingly beautiful.
The final delivery manual and panoramic display images for his [Marine Palace] had been sent to his email.
It was worth noting that the data notes indicated that its power system and most advanced security radar were custom-developed by top teams under Ouyang Xianyue's [Tang Yi Precision], achieving quasi-military-level secrecy and safety.
He had already confirmed with the European butler team.
Not only was the final soft furnishing debugging complete, but even the champagne in the wine cellar had been chilled to the perfect temperature.
Theoretically, if he were willing, he could board his private jet and fly directly to Monaco right now to receive this dream-like yacht at any time.
However, he really couldn't spare the time at the moment.
On one hand, the strategic expansion of [Songmei Apparel] had reached a critical period requiring his personal involvement.
On the other hand, the inauguration of the global CEO for [Xuanji Optical World] was imminent.
Both were directly linked to the crucial [Fourth Stage Growth Plan Mission].
Their priority was definitely far higher than immediate pleasure.
Moreover, for a toy of this caliber, you either don't touch it, or if you play, you play to the fullest.
Receiving the yacht wasn't just a signing ceremony; it should be a journey of complete relaxation and immersive enjoyment.
He'd indulge in the luxury after these important tasks were wrapped up.
However, naming the yacht was a problem that needed solving soon.
What should he call it?
The sky outside the window had unknowingly darkened, city lights coming on, neon illuminating Yancheng's night sky.
"Ding dong—"
A crisp sound came from the phone on the desk.
It was a newly created temporary WeChat group, with a very straightforward name—[Meat Tonight].
Inside were only him, Shen Yuyan, and Lu Ziming.
[Lu Ziming: "@Tang Song @Shen Yuyan, it's Friday today, 'Old Zhang's BBQ' is definitely going to be packed. I've already set off to queue and grab a table. You two finish work in peace, just come straight over when you're done."]
[Lu Ziming: "Here's a screenshot of the menu. Post whatever you want to eat directly in the group, I'll have them start grilling it first, guarantee you'll have hot food as soon as you arrive!"]
Following closely were two photos of somewhat aged laminated menus, the corners a bit worn, exuding a strong sense of nostalgia.
[Shen Yuyan: "Wow, it's been so long since I've been there, is the menu still the same?"]
[Shen Yuyan: "I love their grilled chicken legs the most, slightly spicy. (#drooling) I'm almost done here too, setting off now."]
Looking at the group chat conversation, the corners of Tang Song's mouth unconsciously lifted.
That "Old Zhang's BBQ" outside the west gate of Yanke University held many of his university memories.
Whenever someone in the dorm had a birthday, won a scholarship, or wanted to treat themselves, it was always the first choice.
Lu Ziming, as the most well-off and generous one in the dorm, though usually a bit of a chatterbox, never hesitated when treating others.
Also, when Liu Qingning first made a special trip from the Imperial Capital to see him, they also ate at "Old Zhang's BBQ."
It also carried many of his university-era memories.
Tang Song checked the time; it was already 5:30 PM.
He informed Liu Jiayi.
Saved the documents, shut down the computer, picked up his coat, and strode out of the office.
When he arrived at the B1 parking lot, Liu Jiayi was already standing ramrod straight beside the Rolls-Royce Phantom.
Seeing him appear, she immediately stepped forward and skillfully opened the rear door.
Tang Song approached but suddenly stopped, smiling. "Not sitting in the back today."
Saying this, he walked around to the other side and opened the passenger door.
Liu Jiayi's face showed no change, only giving a slight nod before sitting in the driver's seat and closing the door.
The car started, slowly driving out of the underground parking lot of Yunxi Building, soon merging into the slow-moving traffic of the evening rush hour.
In the stop-and-go traffic, outside the window was a continuous stream of car lights and the gradually rising neon of the city.
Tang Song leaned back in the passenger seat, his gaze fixed on the congested road ahead.
After a moment of silence, he suddenly spoke, his voice calm. "Xiao Qi."
"Hmm, here." Liu Jiayi kept her eyes on the road, gripping the steering wheel attentively, waiting for him to continue.
"In a while, probably after this busy period is over..." Tang Song turned his head, looking at her sharply defined profile. "I might need to make a trip to Switzerland, Zurich. You'll accompany me."
The car body jolted extremely subtly, probably a momentary fluctuation in throttle control, but it quickly returned to its smooth-as-glass stability.
Liu Jiayi's hands on the steering wheel tightened slightly, then immediately relaxed, as if just adjusting her grip.
Two seconds of silence.
Her gaze instantly became sharp and focused.
"Received. I will arrange local security matters in advance."
Tang Song smiled, withdrew his gaze, understanding dawning in his heart.
As expected, Liu Jiayi knew something.
This security guard/driver, personally selected and polished by Secretary Jin, with top-tier skills in martial arts, driving, and confidentiality awareness, had been prepared for him from the very beginning.
In the past, every time certain highly private or sensitive trips were involved, Liu Jiayi was present.
It's just that in his currently awakened memories, direct communication between the two seemed scarce.
However, regarding the [Crown Bank], she probably participated in certain aspects back then.
......
Half an hour later.
The scenery outside the window grew increasingly familiar, transitioning from the high-rise commercial district to the more vibrant, youthful-feeling university district.
The plane trees lining the streets felt particularly intimate even in the winter night.
The iconic red-brick outline of Yancheng University of Science and Technology came into view.
The Rolls-Royce Phantom turned a corner, abruptly squeezing into a narrow street full of spicy soup shops, stationery stores, and cheap fruit stalls.
It came to a steady stop at the west gate.
"Thanks for the hard work, Xiao Qi." Tang Song unbuckled his seatbelt. "Find a place to eat and rest yourself, no need to wait here idly. I'll contact you when we're done. Bye."
The car door opened.
The biting chill of the winter night mixed with the aromas of cumin, chili powder, and various foods rushed over him.
Students bundled in thick down jackets, in groups of three or five, exhaling white puffs of air, chatted and laughed as they moved among the various small shops.
Noisy and full of life.
Of course, with the appearance of the Rolls-Royce Phantom.
Countless gazes converged in unison.
Tang Song, dressed in expensive suits, with a handsome, upright figure, standing on the slightly greasy, worn sidewalk, seemed completely out of place with his surroundings.
Like a male lead who had stepped out of an idol drama.
Causing everyone around, regardless of gender, to frequently glance back, their eyes filled with admiration and curiosity.
Perhaps also a hint of peeking into another distant world.
Tang Song seemed oblivious to this. He simply exhaled a light puff of white air, his gaze searching briefly through the familiar street scene before he strode with his long legs directly towards the direction from memory.
Soon, the familiar storefront appeared in view.
The red signboard was somewhat faded, but the four large characters "Old Zhang's BBQ" were still eye-catching.
The shop seemed smaller than he remembered, steam-filled and almost packed to capacity.
Pushing open the glass door, a wave of heat mixed with noisy chatter assaulted him.
Instantly cutting off the winter night's chill.
At a table by the window, Lu Ziming had already stood up, vigorously waving his arm at him. "Old Song! Over here!"