Rebirth of a Farming Wife

“I heard there’s someone planning to open a department store not far from here, also set to launch in a few days, which coincides with our plans, Uncle Fu. Are you confident?”

Su Wenyue was referring to Chen Li, whom she had been keeping an eye on. She learned of Chen Li’s intention as soon as it arose. Su Wenyue felt a certain admiration for this woman, who despite having many flaws and being rather arrogant and overly confident, had proven to be resilient. Following her previous failure, Chen Li had not been discouraged; instead, she quickly regrouped and made a comeback with even greater momentum than before.

“Yes, I’ve heard about it too. It’s quite close by. I was a little worried when I first found out and even went there incognito a few times. Though they also deal in a variety of goods, their store decoration is not as nice as ours; it has a strange, indescribable feel to it. Moreover, I’ve sent people inside to investigate, and their range of goods isn’t as complete as ours, so they shouldn’t pose a threat to us,” Uncle Fu replied.

Fu Lu proved to be as reliable and thorough as always. Su Wenyue had brought up the issue simply as a precautionary measure. She hadn’t expected that Fu Lu would have already investigated the matter thoroughly.

“It’s good that you’ve checked them out, Uncle Fu. Despite this, we can’t afford to become complacent. The person opening the store is unorthodox and has a knack for coming up with novel ideas. That has been the case in the past, and that’s why they rose swiftly in the business world, possessing some real skill. Even the Su Family’s business felt some impact because of her, so we must remain vigilant and not let our guard down due to a momentary advantage,” said Su Wenyue. Although she was satisfied with Uncle Fu, she did not become complacent; Chen Li had stumbled over this very issue. Considering Chen Li was indeed a formidable opponent, they needed to be extra cautious.

Upon hearing Su Wenyue’s words, Uncle Fu sombered and felt a deeper respect and admiration for the young master; Su Wenyue truly had the makings of a great businesswoman. Although her methods might have been a bit naive when she first entered the business world, having these experienced elders by her side was not a disadvantage. What truly mattered was her unique vision, the ease with which she generated ideas, and her capacity to appreciate her adversaries’ strengths without letting a bit of success get to her head. These were all excellent qualities to have.

“Madam, rest assured. I’m also aware of the person behind the new store. Although some of their ideas may seem impractical, they do have some strategies. I will take care and not underestimate them,” Uncle Fu assured. He had always been observant of Chen Li while at the Su Family and had kept an eye on her. Now, with his understanding of both friend and foe, he would act cautiously even without Su Wenyue’s reminder.

“That’s good to hear. I had some concerns about Chen Li’s tactics, but with Uncle Fu here, I can rest easy. Also, regarding the plans I’ve discussed with you previously, Uncle Fu, please help me review them. Once the department store’s business stabilizes, we should start preparing slowly,” Su Wenyue added.

Uncle Fu nodded. He had already considered the feasibility of the plans proposed by Su Wenyue: “I believe the plans Madam has in mind are generally feasible, but we will need time to prepare. We can’t be hasty. Furthermore, manpower could be an issue. Although we can find people temporarily, those not tested and trained are inadequate in many respects and may easily be bribed. I was able to get inside information on that store so quickly because I had bought off one of their guys.”

“With the matter in your hands, Uncle Fu, I’m relieved. If there’s anything you need, just ask, and I’ll do my best to make it happen,” Su Wenyue expressed, effectively delegating the responsibility to Uncle Fu. Her child was one reason why she couldn’t spread herself too thinly. More importantly, with a loyal and competent subordinate like Uncle Fu, Su Wenyue could just offer ideas and sit back confidently, like a passive shopkeeper assuredly waiting for the fish to bite.

Su Wenyue was well aware of her own limitations. She wasn’t adept at business tactics or networking, so leaving things to Uncle Fu was a better choice, showing her trust in him. Uncle Fu’s loyalty to the Su Family was beyond doubt. He wouldn’t betray her, not just because of his father but Su Wenyue hoped his loyalty wouldn’t stem solely from that. She might not be a business expert, but her father had taught her the most critical skill: how to properly employ and win over her servants.

Uncle Fu hadn’t expected such complete trust from the young master, who entrusted him with the entire business without a hint of doubt. He felt somewhat gratified and moved, experiencing a sense of belonging. Initially, he was not particularly willing to serve under Miss Su; it wasn’t that he, a servant, wished to be choosy about his master, but he felt underutilized. Serving Miss Su meant he could only do as much as a typical servant, with no real opportunity to showcase his abilities. He was grateful to the old master and wanted to help as much as he could, for that would be the greatest repayment.

Yet, the decision of the master was not for a servant to question. Moreover, given the earnest and serious way the old master had entrusted him with the task, he could not and would not refuse, although he did feel somewhat dispirited. He had assumed he would serve the old master or the young masters for life, but he ended up with the already married Miss. Nevertheless, this demonstrated the old master’s affection and regard for Miss Su, and just for that, he would remain utterly loyal. It was only a pity that he hadn’t expected to have an opportunity to demonstrate his abilities in this lifetime.

The innovative plans and ideas devised by Miss Su had provided Uncle Fu with a fresh perspective. Faced with future challenges, he didn’t feel fear or trepidation but rather a boiling enthusiasm. The long-term visions and aspirations proposed by Miss Su, if realized, would make his lifetime worthwhile. Although Uncle Fu had sold himself to serve the old master to repay a debt, deep down, he possessed a man’s drive and ambition, desiring accomplishments, even if those achievements ultimately benefited others, not himself.

“Since Madam trusts me so deeply, I will not refuse. I will devote myself wholeheartedly and never betray the trust you have placed in me!” While Uncle Fu’s words seemed like common courtesy, they carried sincerity and gravity, almost like an oath, and also conveyed his intention to follow Su Wenyue faithfully. This time, his loyalty was genuine, motivated solely by Su Wenyue herself, rather than any other reason.

Seeing Uncle Fu’s resolve, Su Wenyue felt quite satisfied, knowing her efforts hadn’t been in vain. She nodded, “Then I leave it in your capable hands, Uncle Fu.”