As the near-perfect prelude ended, it instantly captured everyone's attention. Tang Song nodded slightly at Tian Jing.

Then, a fresh and sweet female voice echoed through the speakers.

"You walked me through the summer cicadas, crossing the bustling city..."

Tian Jing's singing was decent. Since she was familiar with the song, she handled the pitch and rhythm well. The only issue was her emotional expression. Having never experienced deep, entangled love, she could only rely on imagination and immersion.

On the other hand, Tang Song, with his guitar skills and emotional depth honed in the dream, played seamlessly, effortlessly blending technique and emotion. He used arpeggio accompaniment to create a smooth musical feel, fully expressing the song's deep feelings and helplessness.

In the midst of the crowd's focus, Tian Jing listened to the gentle, heartfelt guitar music, and her singing gradually imbued with emotion.

"I really miss you, in every rainy season..."

Good music is highly infectious, especially with live performances. The diners gradually quieted down, focusing on the song. Many shifted their gaze from the dazzling Tian Jing to Tang Song, sitting on the stool.

At this moment, he was like a clear stream flowing through the mountains, cool and refreshing, exuding a restrained charm.

Their eyes met, and Tian Jing's voice trembled slightly. Her clear, fair skin instantly blushed on her face and neck. Noticing her reaction, Tang Song gave her a warm smile.

This date involved a system task, and his main goal was to make Tian Jing happy. He then stood up from the chair and moved closer to her. Breathing in her fragrance and looking into her bright eyes, he began to sing softly.

"You walked me through the summer cicadas, crossing the bustling city

Your voice still lingers, and your eyes shine like pomegranate flowers..."

Tian Jing relaxed immediately, a big smile appearing on her face. She swayed gently as she sang. The breeze lifted her delicate bangs, and her radiant face looked more beautiful than the moon that night.

Tang Song followed the rhythm of the song, strumming and tapping the guitar strings with impeccable timing. The clear guitar sound, accompanied by the tapping on the wood, created a unique rhythm.

Chords are the skeleton, but rhythm is the soul. Excellent rhythm adds dynamism and life to the performance. Tang Song improvised a rhythm different from the original, making the entire song refreshingly new.

...

The song ended as the guitar notes flowed like a clear spring. Applause and cheers erupted from the terrace. Enjoying barbecue, evening breezes, beautiful scenery, and fantastic music—what an unforgettable experience.

Many people began posting on their social media and Douyin. The host took the microphone, exclaiming, "Our customers are indeed hidden talents! The performance by these two was amazing! It's also an honor for New Alley! The game continues, and we encourage everyone to join!"

Tang Song handed the guitar back to Carl, thanking him and gradually coming down from the performance high. He smiled at Tian Jing, "Great collaboration! Your singing was wonderful!"

"It's all thanks to you." Tian Jing stuck out her tongue playfully, "You’re such a hidden talent! Your guitar playing was incredible. You could debut right here." Check latest chapters at NoveIＦire.net

"A guitarist alone isn’t enough. How about we form a band and release an album?"

"Sure, let’s call it... Sweet Sugar, how’s that?"

"Perfect!"

...

At the table, He Liting's dazed look gradually returned to normal. She was filled with mixed emotions. Although she couldn’t play the guitar, she could tell from Carl's expression and reaction that Tang Song's skills were top-notch. Driving a BMW, tall and handsome, playing guitar excellently, and with outstanding charisma—he was one of the most attractive men she had ever met.

She had once advised Zhao Yaqian to stay away from Tang Song, using facts and logic to keep her from getting too close. Now, she felt a strong sense of guilt. But last night, Zhao Yaqian had already rejected Tang Song, and now he had a beautiful, rich girl with him. It was too late.

Li Xinghui, watching the lively crowd, suggested, "Liting, I remember you're good at singing. Why not join the fun?"

"No." He Liting replied absentmindedly, then added, "Brother Hui, I'm not feeling well. I might need to go home and rest soon."

Li Xinghui was surprised, "Oh, okay, I'll take you home then."

"No need. It's a waste of time going back and forth. We still have a lot of food left. You enjoy it; I'll just take a cab home."

With that, He Liting picked up her bag and stood up.

"Alright, be careful. Let me know when you get home," Li Xinghui said, not insisting.

They hadn’t known each other long and were just colleagues. With He Liting's firm refusal, he couldn’t persuade her to stay. He Liting glanced one last time at Tang Song, waved, and said, "Thanks for tonight, Brother Hui. I'll treat you next time. Goodbye."

...

After about ten more minutes, the restaurant's game ended, and the handsome manager returned to the stage, inviting everyone to vote in the Douyin livestream.

Unsurprisingly, Tian Jing won, earning a free meal card that could be used at checkout. They raised their glasses to celebrate briefly.

When they had almost finished eating, Tian Jing moved next to Tang Song again, asking him to teach her some guitar chords. She loved music since childhood and had tried learning guitar, but without a good teacher, she never got the hang of it.

Tang Song didn’t hold back, personally guiding her, holding her hands and simulating the movements in the air. Tian Jing's face grew increasingly flushed. She whispered, "Watching you strum, tap, and pluck the strings looked so cool. Can you guide me through it a few times?"

With that, she turned slightly, back facing him, and raised her hands.

"Of course," Tang Song said, licking his lips, gently holding her hands from behind. Her silky hair, narrow shoulders, slim waist, and delicate back instantly brought a rush of joy, making his heart race.

He had a deep impression of Tian Jing, the goddess of the company. Every Friday during afternoon tea, she was the most beautiful sight in the activity area, dressed exquisitely, cutting cakes for everyone, talking sweetly and cutely, and beloved by all male colleagues. However, she always maintained a certain distance in her interactions, even with the persistent Du Shaokai.

Back then, Tang Song could only admire her from a distance, never imagining they would be this close. Now, having such intimate contact, he felt a profound sense of achievement.

Tian Jing cooperated fully, seemingly unaware of his rapid breathing and pounding heart, following his movements, up and down, tapping and plucking.