After finishing that satisfying spicy stir-fry pot meal with Ding Yao.

Qian Lele spent the entire afternoon feeling fulfilled and busy.

First, she rushed back to the teaching building and gritted her teeth through two drowsiness-inducing "Computer Network Principles" classes.

Immediately after, without stopping to rest, she ran to the laboratory and completed all the remaining data annotation tasks for the day, not missing a single one.

Until the world outside the window had completely darkened, leaving only the cold light of computer screens in the laboratory.

She took off her headphones, stretched, and let out a long sigh.

But in her heart, she felt a comfortable sense of solidity.

Returning to the dormitory, she quickly took a hot shower.

Opened the wardrobe.

Hesitated for a moment, then reached in and took out a light pink gift box.

Inside was the outfit Tang Song had given her when he accompanied her to Ding Yao's birthday party.

A V-neck jacquard dress, a color-block cashmere shawl scarf, color-block little Chanel-style open-back high heels, and a double-C necklace.

For her, it was like the magical transformation outfit that turned Cinderella into a princess.

She had always treasured it and never worn it.

Qian Lele gently bit her lip and changed into the set of clothes one by one.

Applied a layer of tinted moisturizer, put on lipstick.

Finally, she wore a long down jacket over it—bought during off-season sales, although not particularly fashionable, it was clean and presentable.

Looking at her completely refreshed appearance in the mirror.

A bright smile appeared on her face.

"Ding ling ling—" The phone rang.

Answering the call, "Hello, Ding Yao."

"Oh oh, I'll come downstairs right away."

After hanging up, Qian Lele looked at her ordinary bag bought for over a hundred yuan, her face feeling slightly warm.

Said "Jiayou" to herself.

Resolutely slung it over her shoulder and walked quickly outside.

Stepping out of the dormitory building, the night wind hit her face.

The temperature had dropped sharply, the air carrying a damp chill of early winter.

She tightened the collar of her down jacket, her gaze falling on the black SUV not far away.

Ding Yao was leaning against the car door, waving to her.

The moment she got in the car, Qian Lele was enveloped by the soft leather seats.

The ambient lighting at her feet glowed with a low-key orange light, the car interior filled with a faint, high-end fragrance.

"This car is really nice," she couldn't help but murmur softly.

Ding Yao, while skillfully starting the car, said with a smile, "This is my mom's Mercedes GLE, I specifically borrowed it to drive. For an occasion like tonight, we have to put up some appearances."

The car smoothly merged into traffic.

In the sound system, Su Yu's sexy singing voice slowly began.

Smooth like silk brushing against one's heart.

Ding Yao hummed along lightly with the melody, chatting with Qian Lele about their idol Su Yu.

Her face showed genuine, heartfelt admiration.

It was because of Su Yu that she had embarked on this musical path, now striving to squeeze into the entertainment industry.

Making money was secondary;

she hoped that one day she could meet her idol, even share the stage with her.

This was also why she so wanted to enter Tang Entertainment.

Qian Lele leaned against the soft, comfortable passenger seat, listening to her friend's confidences while watching the neon lights recede rapidly outside the window.

At this moment, she suddenly felt—

Everyone seems to be striving to get closer to their own "light."

Then who is Brother's "light"?

Because it was rush hour, and TC Club was located in Chang'an District, quite far from their school.

The car moved stop-and-go for almost an hour before finally reaching the destination.

As the Mercedes left the noisy main road and turned into a quiet side road.

Qian Lele unconsciously held her breath.

In the night, a three-story standalone building appeared outside the front windshield.

High walls, warm lights, glass curtain walls interwoven with dark gray stone.

The entire building was low-key yet extremely luxurious.

There was no obvious sign at the entrance.

Only a brass plaque embedded in a black marble wall.

Engraved with two English letters—"TC."

At this moment, Qian Lele felt like she was back in that night when she rode in Tang Song's Bentley to attend the birthday party.

Nervous, expectant, yet carrying a trace of unease about the unknown world.

Ding Yao parked the car in the visitor area outside the entrance.

Turned back and winked at her with a smile: "How is it? Quite impressive, right?"

"It's really high-class," Qian Lele said softly.

"Let's go, don't be nervous, today we're members here to enjoy the services."

"Mm."

Stepping onto the gravel garden path.

On both sides of the path, landscape lights were embedded like stars in the low lawn, soft and expensive.

Before they even got close to the entrance, two attendants in custom-made uniforms came forward to greet them.

They stood tall and straight, moved elegantly, and bowed slightly.

"Good evening, welcome to TC Private Club. Please present your membership cards."

Ding Yao smiled and handed over the gold-embossed card.

The attendant received it with both hands, gently scanned it on the verification platform at the entrance.

"Beep—"

A soft electronic sound rang out.

"Miss Ding, is this your guest?"

"Yes, her name is Qian Lele, she's my friend."

"Okay, please wait a moment, I need to do some registration."

Qian Lele quickly stepped forward, softly reported her name and contact information, and signed her name.

The heavy electronic door then slowly opened.

A wave of air carrying sandalwood and warmth gently wafted out from inside.

Qian Lele's breath caught.

The space before her eyes.

Was not the kind of "high-end restaurant" or "luxury café" she had seen before.

But another kind of near-dreamlike luxury.

A huge crystal glass chandelier hung from the dome.

The floor was paved with marble tiles with light golden veins.

The walls on both sides displayed art paintings and collection wine cabinets.

Every detail revealed understated expense and style.

Guided by the attendant, the two stored their coats and took the elevator.

They were taken directly to the third floor.

The moment the elevator doors opened.

What met their eyes was an even more breathtaking world.

Approximately over two hundred square meters.

The lighting was soft, background music elegant.

A long table was set with exquisite desserts and a champagne tower.

Several servers moved among the guests, their demeanor respectful and rhythmic.

There weren't many guests coming and going, only about a dozen, almost all women.

They gathered together, chatting and laughing, elegant and perfumed.

The jewelry they wore sparkled with diamond light under the illumination, even more dazzling than the crystal chandelier overhead.

They all exuded a certain aura.

An aura that blended wealth, status, and confidence.

Even the usually straightforward Ding Yao unconsciously straightened her back now.

Toned down her usual playful laughter.

Although her family had some money, her mother ran a quite successful restaurant, she clearly understood that she was far from reaching this level of social circle.

Being able to come this time was entirely because her father worked as a consultant at that medical beauty chain.

He happened to connect with that major shareholder, hence getting this membership card.

But it was only temporary;

to truly join.

Not only did it require recommendations from at least two formal members, but also extremely strict qualification reviews, and an annual fee as high as tens of thousands of yuan.

This was also why she wanted to bring a friend—she was really afraid of feeling awkward.

She secretly squeezed Qian Lele's hand and whispered, "Don't be nervous, we'll just keep a low profile later. When that major shareholder appears, my dad mentioned me to her before, I'll go introduce myself then. If it doesn't work out, we can just go directly to the SPA room upstairs and enjoy ourselves."

"Mm." Qian Lele nodded, but her palms were already slightly sweaty.

She tried hard to maintain a calm expression.

But her beautiful phoenix eyes still couldn't help wandering around.

This club named "TC."

Wasn't just luxurious;

it felt more like a metaphor for a certain "social class."

Every light here, every soft laugh.

Made her feel as if she were standing on the threshold of a brand new world.

Small and at a loss.

Guided by the attendant, the two each took a glass of brightly colored juice.

Then, like two little ducks who had mistakenly entered Swan Lake, they cautiously moved about inside the club.

They didn't dare initiate conversation with anyone, just quietly passed by the small, laughing circles.

Floating in their ears were topics they could understand but not fully grasp.

From the latest fashion week runway pieces, to some private bank's newly launched family trust products, to...

"...I heard, Yisha Beauty really went all out this time, their next branch is directly opening in Huamao Center opposite Beijing SKP in the Imperial Capital!"

"They're stepping out of Yan Province, going straight to the Imperial Capital."

"Of course, with Boss Qian backing them, General Manager Zhang is really confident now."

...

Hearing the address "Boss Qian."

Ding Yao's steps halted, she immediately grabbed Qian Lele's hand, and whispered in her ear, "Boss Qian... is the shareholder I told you about, also the big boss here."

As she spoke, she pulled Lele along, pretending to admire a nearby painting.

Quietly stood on the periphery of this circle, pricking up their ears.

A woman dressed with a strong financial elite vibe, holding a glass of champagne, said with a smile, "You all still don't know? Boss Qian's identity is far more than just a shareholder of [Yisha Beauty]."

She paused, enjoying the curious looks from those around her, and said leisurely, "Last time I went to the Imperial Capital for a charity gala, I happened to meet Boss Qian, and that's when I was invited to join TC Club. She's a council member of the [Smile Charity Foundation]."

"Smile Charity Foundation?!"

"Council member? Really?"

The faces of several women who had been elegantly chatting instantly changed.

Others, hearing the commotion, also curiously gathered around.

Qian Lele and Ding Yao found themselves wrapped in the middle of the surging crowd, feeling somewhat nervous.

They didn't understand these things, could only prick up their ears and listen to the "buzzing" conversations around them.

Soon, through their discussions, the two girls gradually understood the weight of this name.

And were both startled.

[Smile Charity Foundation] was actually a non-public fundraising foundation initiated by the legendary [Smile Holdings], gathering countless well-known entrepreneurs and celebrities.

Those able to join were without exception major figures with huge influence in their respective fields.

Ding Yao's face turned somewhat pale, her heart filled with trepidation and unease.

She originally thought she could rely on her father's identity to chat a few words with this mysterious "Boss Qian," see if she could build a relationship based on their similar age.

Even if it was just leaving an impression, it would be worth the trip.

But seeing things as they were now, how could she dare!

"Lele..." Ding Yao secretly tugged her friend's sleeve, whispering in her ear, "How about... we just go directly upstairs for the SPA? After that, we can go play some games in the fourth-floor entertainment room or something."

Qian Lele looked at her expression and instantly understood her thoughts, nodding gently, "Okay."

Being here, she actually also felt somewhat suffocated.

Mainly because everyone around was a stranger, and their auras were so strong.

Just as the two were heading towards the door.

That heavy carved door was suddenly slowly pushed open from the outside.

The attendant at the door immediately bowed, "Boss Qian!"

As the words fell.

The originally noisy lounge instantly quieted.

Everyone's eyes uniformly turned towards the entrance.

Qian Lele and Ding Yao also unconsciously stopped walking.

They understood that the true protagonist of the evening had appeared.

The light gently fell on the doorway.

A tall, slender figure walked in.

It was an extremely radiant woman.

She wore a golden strapless gown, the metallic sheen of the smooth fabric tightly wrapping around her curvaceous figure.

A bright wine-red long hair was meticulously styled into retro large waves, casually draped over her snow-white shoulders.

She exuded an air of nobility, as if glowing.

Ding Yao held her breath.

Qian Lele showed a dazed expression.

Staring straight at the suddenly appearing, unfamiliar Qianqian.

For this peer friend she met at Weiguang Coffee, her understanding wasn't actually deep.

But her impression was good.

The other party had given her a Chanel lipstick on their first meeting, and later often gave her various skincare product samples.

Occasionally, she would suddenly come to Yancheng Normal University to find her, saying she wanted to experience the campus atmosphere.

Then would pull her along to eat at the cafeteria together, or attend an open class.

She said she worked at a beauty salon.

Was this what she meant?

She was a shareholder of Yisha Beauty? And a council member of the Smile Charity Foundation?

"Boss Qian!"

"Good evening, Boss Qian!"

After a brief silence, the room erupted in a wave of enthusiastic greetings.

Zhao Yaqian responded with a faint smile, nodding.

Her long legs stepped in slender high heels, each step composed and confident, her posture extremely elegant.

With a height of 1.8 meters, plus high heels, she stood out like a crane among chickens among the generally petite female guests.

Combined with the boost of her prestigious status, she carried a captivating aura.

Ding Yao instinctively shrunk her neck slightly, gently pulling Qian Lele's arm, signaling her to move aside.

At that moment.

That Boss Qian's gaze suddenly stopped on them.

A surprised and delighted smile appeared on her radiant, moving face.

She directly strode forward, passing through the crowd that automatically made way for her.

Under the intertwined gazes and lighting, she walked straight towards the two girls who hadn't had time to react.

"Lele?!" Zhao Yaqian exclaimed in surprise, "It really is you! What are you doing here?"

Before her words finished, she had already opened her arms.

Under the astonished looks of everyone, gave Qian Lele a solid, fragrant hug.

Ding Yao's brain short-circuited on the spot.

This... what's going on?!

Lele... she... she actually knows Boss Qian?

And by the looks of it, they seem to have a good relationship?!

Feeling the warmth and fragrance from Zhao Yaqian, Qian Lele's throat felt tight, "I, I came with a friend... didn't expect to meet you here..."

"What a coincidence!" Zhao Yaqian's face carried a sincere smile. She let go, then intimately held Qian Lele's arm, "I've been wanting to invite you to come play here before, but knowing you're busy with studies, never found the right opportunity. Today is perfect! Finally caught you!"

Qian Lele opened her mouth, looking at this radiant "Boss Qian" before her, momentarily unsure what to say.

Ding Yao beside her finally snapped back to reality, a complex blush surging on her face.

She swallowed and stammered, "Lele... you, you and Boss Qian... know each other?"

Zhao Yaqian then noticed her, smiling and proactively extending her hand, "Hello, I'm Lele's good friend, Zhao Yaqian."

"Hello! Hello! I... I'm Lele's classmate, Ding Yao."

"Ah? You're Dr. Ding's daughter?" Zhao Yaqian's smile became even more amiable, "I've heard him mention you. Welcome, Yaoyao, to TC Club."

"Thank you, thank you, Boss Qian!"

"By the way," Zhao Yaqian seemed to suddenly remember something, "The card Dr. Ding got from me seems to be just a one-time experience card, right? Don't rush off later, I'll have someone arrange formal membership for both you and Lele."

"Ah?" Ding Yao was completely stunned.

Zhao Yaqian turned back to look at Qian Lele, smiling as she added, "When you're not busy in the future, come play anytime. TC's SPA and afternoon tea are both very good."

"No need, I..." Qian Lele felt somewhat awkward, "I don't need a membership card..."

"Don't be polite." Zhao Yaqian directly cut her off, "I've always wanted to give you a membership card, today is just perfect."

Ding Yao was already so excited her voice trembled: "Thank you so much, Boss Qian!"

Her mood at this moment was even more thrilling than a rollercoaster ride.

One second she was feeling inferior for not being qualified enough, the next second, because of Lele, she successfully connected.

The 50,000 yuan annual fee membership card was secondary;

mainly, with this connection, she could have the opportunity to enter Tang Entertainment!

"No need to be so formal, just call me Qianqian!"

Looking at Zhao Yaqian who seemed to have returned to the familiar "Qianqian," Qian Lele's emotions finally calmed somewhat.

But she still said sheepishly, "This... I really don't need it."

"Don't overthink it, I've always wanted to give you a membership card, just never found the right chance. Today is perfect, so don't stand on ceremony with me!"

Qian Lele still wanted to say something.

But Zhao Yaqian already gave her no chance to refuse, directly holding her hand, introducing her to this party.

And also taking the opportunity introduced her to these guests.

Qian Lele just followed dizzily, the smile on her face almost stiffening.

After over ten minutes.

An attendant quickly walked to Zhao Yaqian's side.

Leaned close to her ear and whispered a few words.

The smile on Zhao Yaqian's face slightly faded, her expression instantly becoming somewhat tense and solemn.

She thought for a moment, then turned to look at Qian Lele beside her, using a coquettish tone said, "Lele, a very important guest of mine has arrived. You... come with me to receive them, okay?"

The reason she was hosting this party.

Besides formally appearing before the members recently recruited, the main purpose was to complete that "social" task Tang Song gave her.

Originally, she wanted Luna to accompany her.

But the other party, upon hearing who they were going to meet, made a particularly strange expression and absolutely refused.

And Qian Lele obviously also had a special relationship with Brother Song.

She had been thinking of finding a chance to come clean with the other party anyway.

Bringing her along early to meet this "new sister" could also help bolster her own courage.

After all... she knew... Tang Song's first girlfriend was her.

When she saw the photo her cousin took back then, she was heartbroken for a long time.

Naturally, she would feel particularly nervous and apprehensive now.

Qian Lele looked at her big eyes filled with "please, please," although not understanding what was happening, still felt too embarrassed to refuse.

"Let's go."

Zhao Yaqian held her hand, said goodbye to the people around them, and walked out of the lively lounge.

The two walked forward a few steps, turned a corner, and arrived at a lounge door.

"Boss Qian, Miss You is inside," the attendant at the door said respectfully.

Zhao Yaqian took a deep breath, gently knocked on the door, then pushed it open and walked in.

Qian Lele followed inside.

Before her eyes flashed a soft white light.

Immediately after, she saw the figure sitting properly on the sofa.

Her expression froze again in astonishment.

It was a girl with very fair skin, wearing a brown strapless long dress.

Her jet-black beautiful hair with natural waves was casually tied up at the back. Under her wispy bangs was a sweet, pretty face.

Under the corners of her eyes were adorned with several fine crushed diamond decorations, adding a touch of glamour.

Of course, what truly shook Qian Lele's heart.

Was because she recognized this person.

Previously at Minghui Mall, when she saw Brother with 3 girls shopping together, besides Lin Muxue.

One of them was this girl before her now.

Qian Lele had a very deep impression of this rich, beautiful white girl with outstanding temperament, whose every move exuded a sense of superiority.