Chapter 2: The Power of Money

Liu Ming's heart pounded as he stared at the golden holographic screen floating before him. Nine septillion Simp Gold Coins… The number was so massive it didn't even feel real. With this kind of wealth, he could buy anything—or anyone.

His fists clenched as he remembered Lin Xiaoyu's cruel words, the laughter of her friends ringing in his ears. Broke loser, huh? We'll see who's laughing now.

[Would you like to access the Shop Menu?]

The voice of the Simp God System echoed in his mind, calm and mechanical. Liu Ming took a deep breath, his eyes gleaming with newfound determination. "Yes. Show me the Shop."

The holographic screen shifted, revealing a dazzling array of options:

[Shop Menu]

1. Luxury Gifts – From designer handbags to limited-edition jewelry

2. Experiences – Exotic vacations, VIP event tickets, private yacht parties

3. Skills and Abilities – Charisma Boosts, Physical Enhancements, Intelligence Upgrades

4. Miscellaneous – Anything money can buy, and even things it shouldn't

Liu Ming's mouth fell open. It was like having a genie in his head, one that could grant any wish as long as he was willing to spend. His eyes landed on the third category. "Skills and Abilities… what kind of powers can I get?"

The screen flickered, displaying a list of abilities:

Charisma Boost, Level 1 – 10 Billion Coins

Strength Enhancement, Level 1 – 15 Billion Coins

Intelligence Upgrade, Level 1 – 12 Billion Coins

Charm Aura (Passive) – 20 Billion Coins

Liu Ming's eyes gleamed. With these, he could become more than just rich. He could become powerful. Irresistible. I could make anyone fall for me… even her.

He tapped on Charisma Boost, Level 1 without hesitation.

[Purchase Confirmed. 10 Billion Coins deducted. Charisma Boost, Level 1 Activated.]

A surge of warmth spread through his body, like electricity humming under his skin. Liu Ming stumbled back, his head spinning. When the sensation faded, he looked down at himself, half-expecting to see some visible change. But his reflection in the glass door of the rooftop stairwell looked the same—except for his eyes. They sparkled with a confidence he'd never seen before.

[Charisma Boost, Level 1: Activated. You now possess an aura of charm that makes you more persuasive and attractive to others.]

Liu Ming's lips curled into a smirk. "Let's test this out."

He walked off the rooftop, his head held high. Gone was the timid, broken-hearted fool who had been humiliated hours before. Now, he moved with purpose, his posture straight, his gaze sharp.

On his way back to campus, he passed a high-end shopping district. His eyes landed on an extravagant jewelry store, the window display glittering with diamonds and gold. An idea sparked in his mind. If he was going to make Lin Xiaoyu notice him, he needed to make an entrance she'd never forget.

[Would you like to access the Luxury Gifts category?]

Liu Ming grinned. "Yes. Show me the most expensive item."

The screen displayed a dazzling necklace, encrusted with flawless diamonds and sapphires, shimmering with an otherworldly light.

[Celestial Tears Necklace – 500 Billion Coins]

A masterpiece crafted by the world's most renowned jeweler. Legend says it was made from the tears of a goddess. Guaranteed to captivate any woman's heart.

Liu Ming didn't even blink. "Buy it."

[Purchase Confirmed. 500 Billion Coins deducted. Item delivered to your inventory.]

A flash of light appeared in front of him, and the necklace materialized, floating delicately in the air. Liu Ming caught it, the cool metal resting in his palm. It was breathtaking, each gemstone catching the light in a mesmerizing dance.

He clenched his fist around the necklace, his eyes cold. Lin Xiaoyu, you want wealth? You want power? I'll show you both.

The next morning, Liu Ming arrived on campus with his head held high. His worn-out clothes and cheap sneakers had been replaced with a tailored designer suit, polished leather shoes, and a luxury watch that gleamed with every movement.

Whispers rippled through the crowd as he walked past, his aura commanding attention. Students who normally ignored him turned to stare, eyes wide with shock and curiosity.

"Is that… Liu Ming?"

"No way! Since when did he dress like that?"

"He looks… hot?"

Liu Ming's enhanced charisma radiated from him like an invisible force field, drawing eyes wherever he went. He walked straight to the courtyard where Lin Xiaoyu always hung out with her clique.

She was there, laughing with her friends, completely unaware of his approach. He stopped a few steps away, his voice firm and confident. "Lin Xiaoyu."

She looked up, her smile faltering as she saw him. Confusion flickered in her eyes. "Liu Ming? What… what are you wearing?"

Liu Ming's lips curved into a cool smile. "Just something I picked up. Thought I'd stop dressing like a 'broke loser.'"

Her cheeks flushed, embarrassment crossing her face as her friends' eyes widened. Before she could respond, Liu Ming held out the Celestial Tears Necklace, the jewels sparkling brilliantly in the sunlight. Gasps echoed around them.

Lin Xiaoyu's jaw dropped. "T-That's…"

"A gift. For you," Liu Ming said smoothly, his voice rich with charm. "I figured you deserved something worthy of your beauty."

Her eyes were glued to the necklace, her breath hitching. "I… I don't know what to say…"

Liu Ming leaned in, his voice low and magnetic. "Then don't say anything. Just accept it."

Her cheeks turned pink, her usual confidence shaken. She hesitated for a moment before reaching out, her fingers trembling as she took the necklace. The other girls looked at her enviously, their eyes filled with admiration and jealousy.

Liu Ming's smirk widened. Look at them… look at her. Just a taste of my power, and they're already mesmerized.

Lin Xiaoyu looked up at him, her expression softer than he'd ever seen. "Liu Ming… you're… different today."

He stepped back, his gaze cool and calculating. "Maybe you just never looked at me properly before." With that, he turned and walked away, leaving her standing there, stunned and speechless.

As he moved through the crowd, whispers followed him, filled with awe and intrigue. But Liu Ming didn't care about their opinions. There was only one thought on his mind.

This is just the beginning. I'll make you fall for me, Lin Xiaoyu. And when you do… I'll make you regret ever looking down on me.