Blossom in Adversity

C139. Business and Surprises.

Chapter 139: Business and Surprises

The Lantern Festival marked the true end of the New Year festivities. Government officials paid their respects, and the official seals were put away, signaling the beginning of a new year.

The Hua family's clan school had also resumed classes.

Despite the cold weather and the continuous snowfall, which covered the old snow with new layers, business at Green Moss Alley remained prosperous. The profits were considerable, especially with the canned goods trade. In a short period of time, Hua Zhi had managed to accumulate a decent sum of silver.

Before the New Year, Hua Zhi had asked her maternal grandmother to keep an eye out for available shops, but her requirements were high, and it wasn't until the end of February that she received any news.

"Huahua, I want to come too."

Hua Zhi felt a pang of guilt. She was a homebody who could stay indoors all year round without any issues. But she knew Shao Yao was different - she was used to freedom and couldn't be cooped up for so long at the Hua residence.

So, Hua Zhi nodded, "You can't leave my side for even a step."

Shao Yao smiled brightly, "I won't, I won't leave your side at all."

The shop was not on the main street but on a street several blocks away. The area was not secluded and had a pleasant name, Zhuangyuan Street. It had held this name for centuries as it was said that three Zhuangyuan (top scorers in the imperial examination) had emerged from this street successively, making it a highly regarded place among feng shui practitioners.

Such a place naturally wasn't where ordinary people resided. It was primarily inhabited by civil officials, and apart from the Hua and Lin families' Hualin Lane, it was the most prestigious area for scholars.

The shop her mother's family found is located on this street. The name perfectly suits her, so she's decided to rent it before even seeing it, regardless of the slightly increased price.

Exiting the carriage and standing on the shaft, she looked up at the typical architecture of the Daqing Dynasty. The shop had a pointed roof, exuding a sense of sharpness, much like all the other buildings in the area.

The two-story building with a courtyard was a standalone structure.

"Cousin." Zhu Ziwen, who was already waiting, approached her. Following her gaze, they both looked at the small building. "How does it feel?"

"It's quite nice," Hua Zhi said, looking at the young man beside him, who didn't seem like a broker.

Zhu Ziwen understood and took a step back to introduce, "This is the owner of the house, Master Wu Bi."

Wu Bi nodded slightly, and Hua Zhi also gave a courteous bow.

"Let's go inside and take a look."

The courtyard was spacious, clean, and well-organized, even the trees in the courtyard were neatly trimmed.

Wu Bi explained, "This shop used to sell silk and satin. Due to a family emergency, they had to rush back to their hometown, leaving the shop empty."

"Not returning?"

"Yes, they are not coming back. So, we terminated the lease agreement."

Hua Zhi nodded slightly, scanning the surroundings. The exterior of the building didn't seem impressive, but once inside, she realized it was much larger than it appeared. The rent might be expensive, and she was actually more inclined to purchase it as it would provide her with a sense of security.