Chapter 110: Honest Business
Wendi shivered, chilled to the bone with fear.
How is this possible? How could she ever do such a thing? After such shameful acts, Aunt Hua gives her nothing but cold stares every time they meet. How could she possibly ask for their recipes, imitate their craftsmanship? That would be like asking to be slapped in the face. She couldn’t possibly do such a thing and naturally, they wouldn’t tell her either.
She really thought they were something special, their recipes something just anyone could know?
"Pah!" Aunt Hua spat, "With their poor and pathetic appearance, still trying to run a business without even the slightest sense of hygiene. Who would buy their pastries and not fear getting sick? Those tiny pastries they make, only a fool would buy that. It’s embarrassing even to compare their pastries to ours."
She always remembered what Qin Xiangnuan had said—treat making them as if you were cooking for yourself, with cleanliness and hygiene, and don’t just make the pastries inconsistently large or small. Putting herself in the customer’s shoes, she knew she’d feel cheated if she bought such products. This wasn’t shopping; it was outright deception.
Because the shop had just gotten new equipment, Qin Xiangnuan spent a few extra days there. The shop was vital for their livelihood, naturally more important than anything. Plus, if she missed a few days of primary school, it wouldn’t matter. So she let Qin Xiangyang help Aunt Hua steady the shop first.
This year was truly cold; the New Year came early and there was a heavy snowfall recently. It was almost spring yet a cold snap had reversed the warmth. The shop, equipped with a stove and fairly draft-free, made a good warming shelter, attracting many to take refuge from the chill.