funds, falsified accounts,消極應對工程項目，最終這些問題逐漸暴露出來。蘇燦對此本來就冇有興趣，在後來與父母的交流中才大致瞭解這些情況。He never expected that these small-channel rumors he heard about in the future would become important evidence now.This...The Great Metamorphosis Chapter 68: Purchasing Power

Su Cen felt a subtle change after parking the Bentley at the School of Journalism and Communications. Apart from Tang Wu and the endless academic workload, he noticed that there were more endearing aspects to his school life. A sense of attachment had also developed within him.

It was hard to describe this feeling; in his past life, Su Cen had been in numerous luxury cars, usually as a passenger sitting at the boss's seat in the back. Although he had experienced such treatment, it was regrettable that none of those car owners were named Su Cen. Generally, these cars belonged to high-quality clients of the companies he worked for, and they would take him along to handle related business at banks before sending him back to investment firms to retrieve documents and files for those boss-level clients. He was just an insignificant figure in all this. Sometimes, he would indulge himself by thinking that his chauffeured rides were comparable to having numerous consorts, quite a grandiose sentiment.

Now, however, he truly owned his first luxury car.

Driving out from the afternoon auto show and continuing until evening when heading for Tang's family banquet, Su Cen felt that it was the perfect day.

Stepping on the accelerator, he and his vehicle moved forward with power. Driving down the street lined with chestnut trees, feeling the crowds of young women around shops, elderly men swaying in the shade by roadside chairs, and glimpses of blue sky between skyscrapers overhead. Everything receded into layers before his eyes.

He had never observed the world from such a prominent position on the road; at that moment, his gaze was filled with curiosity reminiscent of childhood.

The union of man and tool is something even God would envy. The combination of a person with their mode of transportation is also perfect. From the leather seats beneath him to the feel in his grip of the steering wheel, all these details conveyed enough to make one dizzy with euphoria.

For Su Cen, it was another form of satisfaction from enjoying the fruits of his labor.

Since rebirth, he had accumulated wealth continuously. Yet no matter how it looked on paper, those assets were just lifeless numbers. Whether in Facebook's quarterly reports or Dunhuang Mall sales figures, none could give him a tangible sense of achievement.

Sometimes waking up with the wealth under his control felt hollow and uncertain. He had never tried to fill such voids by spending lavishly.

But now was different; he could carry several hundred thousand yuan in cash, confidently splash it on a car show capable of accommodating thirty thousand people.

The Bentley became the first tangible representation of his wealth. An internationally renowned luxury brand, its final model from the Z8 series at the beginning of the century, crafted by automotive masters, was now his possession.

Driving it into everyone's line of sight and causing rumors and identity upheavals in university campuses with it, combined with his youthful appearance and this grand vehicle, made him embody the will of a reborn soul.

Ling Guangdong drove off in the Bentley before leaving, and Su Cen wanted to tell him not to scratch or dent it. But thinking that such words would seem petty and fail to convey his magnanimity as an owner, he held back and felt like watching Xue Yiyang borrow a cherished toy—though reluctant, he had to act indifferent.

Su Cen reminded himself that this was just his first car but certainly not his last. Nor would it be the most powerful one.

He needed to remain sober-minded; how much impact the Bentley's pre-release hype would have on magazines was still uncertain, so he must prepare a contingency plan.

Furthermore, after purchasing this Bentley and showcasing it through fashion magazines, he would inevitably be thrust into the limelight. If many people cooperated in the炒作 (stirring up interest), Su Cen might even laugh himself awake in his dreams; however, those on the periphery would remain cautious and watchful.

Thus, he probably needed to give it an extra push, requiring positive social energy to propel him further.

But mobilizing such societal support was far from easy. It couldn't be resolved with money alone.

In summary, regardless of the advantages brought by his era's context, making waves in a city as large as Shanghai wasn’t easy.

Lately, there were some low-profile rumors circulating among dormitories 13 and 17. The male student living in room 602 at Building 17 was suspected to be a long-hidden wealthy second generation. Although Nan University had its fair share of such students as any other university, when coupled with the new campus celebrity and Tang Wu, it became more noteworthy.

Tang Wu, when fetching water at the underground washroom of Building 17, would encounter girls from the nearby dorms carrying basins and towels coming out of the bathhouse. They would then whisper to each other: "Look over there, that's her. She played a piano piece during the freshmen ceremony; apparently she’s named Tang Wu. It was said that on that day, her boyfriend picked her up in a luxury car from under Building 5. Some people from Class 10 know her better and have discussed it."

"Is it true Has she changed boyfriends Didn’t she already have one when we started school Still, I think so; for a girl like her, there are probably plenty of suitors. Finding a wealthy boyfriend shouldn't be difficult since she's attractive enough to attract attention. It’s quite normal for someone in her position. However, poor guy, that previous boyfriend."

The girl glanced at Tang Wu with an indifferent expression, immediately placing herself on the opposite side from Tang Wu. She seemed to belong to one of the two common factions found in universities: those who focus solely on their studies and hope for good grades to secure a decent job after graduation, believing in true love despite being unaffected by worldly influences; or girls like Tang Wu, who are capable, accomplished, and attractive, with aspirations beyond the ordinary. These girls are different from ordinary ones.

The girl holding the basin glanced at Tang Wu and whispered, "I haven’t heard anything about her having a new boyfriend."

Another girl was surprised: "How is that possible He’s in Class 13, and he's even the class monitor. But I've never heard of him driving an expensive car to school."

"Yes, it should be him. That's why they say appearances can be deceiving. Would you believe someone like him could drive a luxury car just by looking at him His family is reportedly from Zhejiang and runs a business there; he tends to keep things low-profile though. And as far as I know, she hasn’t told her girlfriend about this."

"Hmm." The girl couldn't help but cover her mouth with one hand, trying to process the information. Her calm demeanor was gone now, replaced by a desire for the truth. "This sounds like something out of a novel—romantic yet unrealistic. Wouldn’t his girlfriend get upset if he hid this from her for so long"

"How would you know what she thinks Nowadays, there are many wealthy people who prefer to stay under the radar as a test for their partners. Getting angry won't solve anything; it’s not like they can break up over it. She might secretly be pleased that he's rich and likes him."

"Indeed. Truly unexpected."

Such small rumors circulate, but unless verified, they remain just that—rumors. To verify them, the closest people to the involved parties are the best choices.

Tang Wu's roommates would also be asked about these kinds of stories by those who enjoy spreading gossip. People asking out of curiosity is understandable; each day at NanDa University sees different student circles discussing interesting matters. There being a few gossips in a dorm or floor is normal.

Ruan Siou was approached by her friends, who asked if it were true that Tang Wu's boyfriend drove a Bentley.

She would sigh and say, "I don't know where you heard this; people keep spreading rumors like crazy. I won’t ask Tang Wu about it, so please stop asking."

Tong Tong suddenly became more ladylike. She used to do yoga every day without competing with Cheng Congcong in appearance when going out. Now, because she compared herself unfavorably to Cheng Congcong's refined figure and snake-like waist, she adopted a pure and innocent look. This new style made her stand out as one of the university’s most beautiful women, attracting attention wherever she went. When male students tried to get close in class, she even showed restraint.

In fact, after seeing Tang Wu's relationship with Su Zhan, those who thought Tang Wu was pretending to be aloof started to view her as genuine and reasonable. Plus, the number of times Tang Wu joked around or smiled at them increased, making it clear that she had become the focus within their dorm.

Tang Wu knew in this situation she needed to lower herself a bit so as not to create an emotional barrier between herself and her roommates. She also carefully considered how her actions might affect their feelings. After all, they were her friends at university.

"What classes is Tang Wu taking today Is it the Military Theory course taught by that handsome lecturer in Building 3’s Department of Military Science He's so attractive! By the way, he seems to be hanging around here lately. Maybe he'll go take a class with Tang Wu this afternoon."

Ruan Siou was getting ready for her department’s professional courses after washing up and splashing some water on her face. Cheng Congcong had already left early to attend an art lecture by a famous Chinese professor of art history.

"He doesn't have time for that nonsense; Tang Wu said recently, her parents would be visiting soon. He’s probably too busy preparing for the visit."

After the incident under Building 5, there was an unusual rapport among Tang Wu's dorm mates. The scene had left a deep impression but none mentioned or inquired about Su Zhan’s background or if that car belonged to him. Even Cheng Congcong expressed skepticism.

The reason for their silence might be to avoid embarrassment; after all, none of them could rival the brilliance of that autumn afternoon so far.

Nonetheless, Tang Wu had become a focus of attention in her dorm. Her every move, even chatting on the balcony or studying at her desk, would make Ruan Siou and Tong Tong absentmindedly listen attentively to what she was saying.

Ruan Sigu went to the department, while Tang Wu attended a military theory class. Cheng Congcong was studying art archaeology; only Tong Tong had some free time in the afternoon and was flipping through magazines and newspapers in her dormitory. On the table was a business newspaper with a piece of news that caught Tong Tong's attention.

"The Shanghai Auto Show, which attracted over ten thousand people, has just concluded. A mysterious customer paid cash to 'snatch' a Bentley luxury car on the opening day, once again heating up this auto show."

Tong Tong immediately connected this news with Su Can's sedan and was lost in thought for a long time before she smiled and put aside the newspaper, picking up an issue of a newly released fashion magazine. She felt that she had overthought things.

On another fine autumn day, during various activities in Shanghai, Tang Mu’s parents found some spare time to visit Nan University. They both came with doubts this time around.

"You see, it's really hard to evaluate Su Can," said Mr. Tang as he drove on the way to Nan University, shaking his head and smiling lightly.

These days, they had been accompanying the two elders around Shanghai, visiting landmarks such as the Oriental Pearl Tower, meeting friends at the international conference center in Longhua, and introducing him through connections. This made Mr. Tang ecstatic; he knew that their acceptance of him was somewhat altered after he successfully acquired Donglin Group and launched a presale campaign for Tianshou City. In subsequent days, they visited Yu Garden, Chenghuang Temple Ancient Street, the New Tian area, and the Circus City, burning incense at Longhua Temple. Old Mr. Qian made a round trip in the Dongtai Antique Market, known as "the south of Beijing's琉璃廠," but didn't find anything worthwhile.

They also went to Yushan Mountain to see Xinyiquan Spring, Meigong Fishing Rocks, and other scenic spots. They climbed Xiudaozhe Pagoda, a seven-story octagonal structure before the elders felt tired and rested.

During this family trip, several people had subtly asked about Su Can's background but received no response from Mr. Tang or Mrs. Mu, as they didn't know what to say themselves. However, it was evident that both families had inquiries regarding him.

Thus, Mr. Tang and Mrs. Mu kept this matter in their minds. Mrs. Mu said, "What's there not to evaluate We don’t know if it’s good or bad. You know the family situation of that child; driving such a car doesn't necessarily mean something positive. From cases I've come across, the critical question is: where did he get the car from"

Mr. Tang was silent, considering this as his biggest doubt.

"Isn’t someone calling him President Su It sounds like he won some kind of bet. What's going on with this kid"

Mrs. Mu narrowed her eyes, "I suspect it’s related to the source of funds for that car; he might not only have bought a car but also invested in something."

"Buying a car Investing Isn't this too chaotic What happened to their family" Mr. Tang shook his head repeatedly with concern.

Mr. and Mrs. Mu were naturally aware of Su Can's family situation, not only from the clues they had picked up but also from when they attended Tang Wu’s birthday party in Rongcheng before the children went to America; at that time, Su Can's family was still part of Dageng Construction's middle management level. Among their circle of influential friends, the Su household was very ordinary.

Even during university enrollment, they had met Mr. Su, who by then had risen to a high position in Dageng Construction. Considering his status, it wouldn’t be difficult for him to do some deals.

If greed leads one to destruction...

The most feared scenario was that if this car was bought by Mr. Su for Su Can along with money given to participate in commercial activities; such high-profile moves would likely lead to trouble. Therefore, Mr. Tang and Mrs. Mu’s worries were not unfounded.

How could one explain the rapid promotion of someone who had been a mid-level manager just a year ago but was now at the position of Group General Manager What about explaining how someone with an annual salary of only thirty thousand yuan last year could buy his son a luxury car worth millions

The depth and size of potential problems were unimaginable.

Mu Zi, who understood the implications, looked out the window. Despite her youthful appearance, worry was evident in her eyes; if the issues came to light, she feared she wouldn't be able to remain calm. At that time, even with the thought of making her daughter hate her for life, she would have no choice but to make a decision.

The simple gates of Nan University appeared ahead, amidst the shadowy tree lines and buildings.

In the dormitory area at this moment, Tang Wu hung up the phone and said to Su Can beside her, "My parents are here. Just be honest when they ask anything; I'll help explain."

Su Can made a thumbs-up gesture: “You're my wife, of course you’ll support me.”

Dang Wu found it quite straightforward and shameless how Su Cen spoke, but standing in the public gaze now, she was more than willing to put on a happy face when met with curious looks from others.

The car stopped in front of them. Tang's parents exchanged glances as they watched Su-Tang get into the vehicle together. They said they were driving to a nearby Western restaurant for lunch. The other two sitting at the back naturally had no objections.

Located outside Nan University, the Western restaurant was elegant and tranquil in its atmosphere, perfect for business lunches but somewhat cold for family meals.

The ambiance felt more like businessmen whispering about financial secrets rather than a harmonious family gathering.

But who cared anyway

"Order whatever you want. Su Cen, you're no longer just a guest here. Don't be so polite," Tang's father said with his usual cheerful demeanor as he handed them the menu, though the double meaning of his words caused Mu Hui to give him a glance. He quickly chuckled in response.

Seated next to Su Cen, Dang Wu was elegant and composed; her mother, still an attractive woman, drew many middle-aged men's attention with her looks.

Su Cen stood tall, his expression relaxed yet clear. Next to him, Dang Wu had a slender figure that was complemented by her ponytail which accentuated the curve of her back. She exuded vitality without losing clarity and gracefulness.

Regardless if it were the two women or the men in this family, all four were eye-catching; people felt envious of both young and old alike. The waitstaff also seemed to treat them with an extra dose of hospitality. A rather enviable quartet indeed.

The only issue was that everyone had their own thoughts.

Upon the table lay a variety of dishes such as cheese, pizza, sirloin steak, creamed lobster soup, and hot banana rolls, all looking incredibly sumptuous. Tang's father even ordered an imported bottle of red wine for them.

A while later, Tang's father raised his glass to Su Cen and clinked it with him before taking a sip. He then wiped his hand with a wet towel and said, "Su Cen, how’s your dad doing"

The main event was here now; Mu Bian felt her body slightly tense up—it was usually when she was on high alert that this happened.

"He's fine," Su Cen smiled and nodded. “My dad mentioned Uncle Tang once, saying he'd treat him to a meal if he comes to Shanghai around the time you're still here. If not, it’s no big deal; we could meet up when he returns to Chengdu."

"Sure, sure," Tang's father smiled. "Oh right, now that your dad is the company's general manager, I can see how much he loves you."

“Huh” Su Cen was taken aback.

"The car at the party a few days ago... not bad. Did you buy it yourself" Tang's father asked with a nod.

"Yeah," Su Cen nodded, surprised that his father hadn't pre-emptively explained the situation to him but that Tang's father had directly asked about it instead. "I like it when people get straight to the point."

Tang's parents exchanged a look; neither knew how to proceed further. With their questions, Su Cen essentially confirmed that his car was bought for him by his family rather than borrowed as a facade.

Though Mu Bian felt her spirits sink halfway through, she quickly calmed herself down and realized that they had overlooked something: Although Tang's father couldn't afford such an expensive purchase in just one year, Su Cen’s mother might be someone to consider. Could it not be the case that his mom was a low-key but renowned entrepreneur

Mu Bian then asked with renewed vigor, "Given your age, they actually bought you a car. Are they really okay with this Did your dad promise them or is it something your mother wanted to do for you. It’s just an apology… they promised…”"Where are they" Su Cen asked, trying to suppress his shock.“Let's go there!”Pang Yiran and Cao Ze were about to charge out of the door, but Su Cen stopped them...