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Upon hearing that the Wang family had made quite a substantial sum from their business ventures, a mix of envy and admiration filled the hearts of those present. Initially viewed as a simple rural household, it seemed they had leveraged past favors from their father to their advantage. If it weren’t for their grandfather’s insistence on their return, most of the guests wouldn’t have visited.
Some felt that since they were from the countryside, a simple reception for their grandfather would have sufficed, questioning the need for all of them to come along. However, Wang Xuan’s revelations reshaped their perceptions of the guests that day.
While these families were not lacking in funds, buying a large house in the capital was beyond their means.
Wu family’s eldest daughter-in-law, Huang Yuehua, couldn’t help but express, “Younger siblings, I never expected your family to be so capable. I truly admire you,” genuinely impressed by their achievements.
Zhang Lan smiled modestly, her captivating phoenix eyes shining brightly. “Sister-in-law, circumstances forced us into this. With four children needing education, relying solely on agriculture wouldn’t suffice. But once we ventured into business, I found joy in it. In the future, if you’re interested, you can try your hand at business. At least you can earn some pocket money,” she suggested with a hint of encouragement.
As Zhang Lan’s words resonated with everyone present, sparking interest, Zheng Furong, aware of the children’s schedules, intervened, “You’re all busy with your jobs. It’s not easy to find time for business. Focus on your work; not everyone is cut out for entrepreneurship.”
Wu Yujiao playfully retorted, “Mom, don’t underestimate us. If we venture into business, I can manage alongside my job. Our office isn’t too demanding anyway. It would make it easier for me to buy a piano for the kids in the future.”
With Zhang Lan initiating the business discussion, the women at the table eagerly joined in, reviving the previously calm atmosphere. Zhang Lan and her daughter listened quietly, refraining from participating in the conversation.
After the meal, Zhang Lan and her daughter helped clear the table, even receiving assistance from Mingyuan. This act of collaboration surprised Zheng Furong, who marveled at the menial tasks undertaken by the Wang family’s children. Seeing them tidying up the kitchen, the elderly lady couldn’t help but express her admiration, grasping Wang Zhenhe’s hand.
“Nephew, how did you raise your children? They are not just intelligent and capable but also responsible and successful. In all my years, I’ve never seen such a sight. Your Uncle wasn’t exaggerating,” she praised warmly.
The grandchildren from the Wu families had finished their meals and left, leaving the Wang children to assist with clearing up, which left the elderly lady in awe.
“It’s nothing special, Auntie. Children in rural areas often help with household chores. When the adults are out working in the fields, there’s no one else to help with household tasks, so we rely on the kids,” Wang Zhenhe explained casually.
The old lady could only sigh in admiration, realizing that children from humble backgrounds often took on responsibilities early in life. Comparing them to her own grandchildren, there was indeed a noticeable difference in their willingness to help.
Zuo Zhanshan led Wu Changyong to the study and showed him some blueprints. “Old Wu, take a look. You lead this project with my support. The children want to venture into this business, and with our three families working together, consider this opportunity.”
Zuo Zhanshan shared the origin of the blueprints and his thoughts with his old comrade. Wu Changyong, besides feeling impressed, was also excited.
“Old Zuo, these drawings were created by Qianqian? She’s truly remarkable. We didn’t misjudge that child,” Wu Changyong exclaimed, feeling both astonished and thrilled.
Zuo Zhanshan nodded with a smile, “Exactly. Without our grandson, Zuo He, recognizing her uniqueness, we might not have met Qianqian. It’s truly fate.”
Wu Changyong carefully examined the blueprints, “Old Zuo, this is a major project. Here’s my suggestion: have Zhenhe and the others in the south produce prototypes first. I’ll bring the samples and blueprints to explain convincingly. This way, no one can question the quality after seeing the prototypes. Simply handing over blueprints might invite tampering.”
Zuo Zhanshan had already anticipated this issue, understanding the importance of timing, particularly for essential military projects.
“Wu, I agree. It’s crucial. Let’s have your son personally head south with Zhenhe. If Zhenhe alone handles it, it might take longer. Let Wu Lei contact Zuo Yu, and let the brothers seek their uncle’s assistance. With our son involved, he knows how to prioritize tasks. Regarding fabric and material requirements, we should consult with Qianqian. Since she designed it, she must have specific ideas in mind,” Zuo Zhanshan suggested.
The blueprints were ready, but the specific fabric suitable for making such clothing left the two elderly gentlemen uncertain. They knew that researching this could take a considerable amount of time, but they both hoped to see these garments on soldiers as soon as possible.
While chatting with Zheng Furong in the room, Wang Qian was summoned by Wu Lei to join them in Wu Changyong’s study. Since Wu Lei was tasked with overseeing this project, he wanted her input as well.
When Wu Changyong and the others inquired about the techniques and requirements for producing these garments, Wang Qian explained how she had seen such military uniforms in her past life. After hearing the technical requirements, Wu Lei, fearing he might forget, took out a notebook to jot down notes.
“Uncle Wu Lei, the key issue here is the fabric. The textile machine’s warp and weft distances need to be dense, and specific threads are required. When you go there, ensure they address these two issues promptly. As for dyeing and weaving, that’s their responsibility. It’s best if we can claim ownership of both aspects,” Wang Qian advised.
With their own team in place, the likelihood of being constrained by others decreased significantly. Wang Qian believed this issue was easily resolved. People in the south were creative and skilled, and she was confident they could address these problems.
“Xiao lei, go meet up with Zuo Yu and your Elder brother. Explain what your father said to him. He’ll understand the situation. Make sure to handle these matters promptly. Your brother, Wang Zhenhe, will join you later to assist, but you should tackle the initial issues. You’re familiar with the contacts on our side. With your Elder brother’s involvement, there shouldn’t be major issues,” Old Wu instructed Wu Lei confidently.
Wu Lei nodded solemnly, fully aware of the significance of this task. If managed well, their family could rise to prominence.
“Dad, rest assured. I’ll handle this matter exceptionally well,” Wu Lei assured his father.
Realizing the weight of his responsibility, Wu Lei swiftly prepared for his journey to the south to meet up with Zuo Yu.
Once everything was arranged, Wu Changyong sat down with Wang Qian. “Impressive, young lady. How did you come up with such a significant solution overnight with that clever mind of yours?” he complimented her.
Wu Changyong affectionately patted Wang Qian’s head, and she chuckled, “Grandpa Wu, even though we have the blueprints, the future sales depend on you. You are the most crucial link. You and Grandpa Zuo will have a lot of work ahead. I’ll treat you to some delicious treats later.”
Her playful words amused Wu Changyong. “You little one, treating your grandpa like a child, talking about buying snacks. How about you just prepare some of that honey from your home for me? Your grandpa relies on that for a good night’s sleep,” he teased.
With matters settled on their end, Zhang Lan and Zheng Furong discussed the situation with Weiguo. The elderly lady sighed at the thought of convincing the other party.
“Niece, in my opinion, Weiguo should directly submit a marriage report and register with Jianing. Let that old lady oppose it. We’ll just register their marriage directly. She won’t be able to change her mind then,” Zheng Furong suggested.
Zheng Furong was frustrated by Han Ying’s attitude. “That old woman is so stubborn. She knows everything about us, but why won’t she listen? Sometimes, being in the military makes one more reliable than others,” she vented.
“Auntie, if things go that way, I fear for the future peace of Weiguo and Jianing. With a mother like that constantly opposing, causing disturbances all the time, even a couple with feelings for each other may eventually be worn down by her constant interference. Let’s try to get her approval as much as we can. Raising a daughter isn’t easy, and without her parents’ blessings, Jianing may not be willing. Let’s strategize for the long term. The old lady might not change her mind quickly. I was planning to discuss the marriage while bringing our child over for school. It seems we’ll need to think of another way,” Zhang Lan suggested.
Zheng Furong genuinely hoped the young couple could come together. She had met Weiguo, a fine young man with both looks and talent. If her daughter wasn’t already married, she would have gladly accepted him as her son-in-law.
Listening in, Wu Yujiao couldn’t help but chime in, “Mom, why not introduce Weiguo to someone else? Even with both of you trying, if that old lady won’t budge, she may never agree. At this rate, poor Zhang Weiguo might be kept waiting indefinitely.”
As Wang Qian and the two elderly gentlemen entered the room, they overheard the discussion. Wang Qian reassured them, “Mom, Grandma, let’s not worry just yet. Tonight, we’ll brainstorm and see if we can come up with a solution. It’s not right to let this couple’s love be torn apart by Grandma Bai. By the way, Grandma Zheng, what are Grandma Bai’s interests or hobbies?”
Zheng Furong chuckled at Wang Qian’s question, “Well, she’s a bit feisty, but she’s not a bad person at heart. However, being from a rural background, she’s not keen on her daughter marrying back into the countryside. She’s quite particular about following village customs. Back when superstitions were frowned upon, she’d secretly burn incense at home. She’s quite a character, to say the least.”