Nothing Huo Jingnian said as he put the documents away. He glanced at his watch and smiled gently. Let us go and collect Zhilan then take her to Aunt Wen’s for lunch. Everything is ready.
Qiao Zhiwei had been about to decline but agreed instead.
The car arrived at the Qiao family home. They picked up Qiao Zhilan and went to the new house for lunch. Afterwards the sisters returned home. No sooner had they stepped inside than the telephone rang. Qiao Zhilan groaned in frustration. It is probably Uncle’s family again. They are so persistent. I will tell them no.
She hurried to the telephone and picked up the receiver sharply. Hello.
There was a pause on the line. Is this Qiao Zhiwei a voice asked uncertainly.
Relieved it was not her uncle Qiao Zhilan softened her tone. This is her younger sister. May I ask who is calling and what this is regarding.
Please ask her the caller said how are the wedding portrait plans coming along. They had only taken two simple photographs yet already several customers wanted portraits in the same style. It had been intended as a single wedding portrait only to end up with two. Business had nearly tripled.
Qiao Zhilan remembered her sister mentioning this. Very well she said with a smile. I will have her call you back immediately.
Zhou Yu gave his name and number and ended the call. Qiao Zhilan found her sister. It is the studio owner from where you had your photographs taken. He wants to know about the portrait project.
Qiao Zhiwei understood. The two photographs had made quite an impression. She had already prepared the proposal but since her sister had expressed concern finding suitable models who would work without pay had become difficult. Apart from herself and Huo Jingnian there was no one else who could step in. She went to the telephone and called the Huo family residence. Huo Jingnian was not there. She assumed he was at their new home but did not have the number so decided to return Zhou Yu’s call instead.
Zhou Yu answered warmly. Weiwei how is the portrait project coming along.
Everything is prepared she said. I only need to discuss it with Jingnian first.
He seemed surprised. Must you ask him.
After all it was he who had brought them to the studio and suggested using the photographs as examples. Was this not his way of making their engagement known.
He said he had no time she explained gently.
He is on leave Zhou Yu said. There is plenty of time. Call him again.
I telephoned earlier. He is not there.
Zhou Yu smiled. Did you not go to the Civil Affairs Bureau together.
Yes but he went to the new house afterwards.
Which house Zhou Yu asked interested.
Qiao Zhiwei was surprised. The Zhou and Huo families were close. Surely he would know such a thing. Is it Jingshan Residence or Qinghui Courtyard.
He has more than one Qiao Zhiwei wondered.
Songya Courtyard Number Seven Jinjiang Lane she said.
What Zhou Yu exclaimed hardly believing his ears.
Is something wrong she asked startled by his tone.
Songya Courtyard from An He’s paintings he asked to be certain.
So he did know Qiao Zhiwei nodded. That is the place.
Zhou Yu let out a breath. He had taken her there to be photographed. It was clear he wanted everyone to see them together. He was making their union real. It seemed Xia Yin had been misunderstood.
Not hearing a reply Qiao Zhiwei added I do not have the telephone number there. I will call again later when he returns to the main family house.
Let me call Zhou Yu offered.
He was acting as if he were far too busy. Both brothers were skilled at keeping up appearances.
Very well she said.
As soon as they ended the call Zhou Yu telephoned.
Huo Jingnian’s voice came low and calm. Hello.
So you are there Zhou Yu said smiling.
Is something the matter Huo Jingnian asked.
Are you serious about her Zhou Yu asked.
Huo Jingnian paused. What if I am.
Then must you be so obvious The rumors have barely settled.
You yourself called them rumors Huo Jingnian replied evenly. Why be concerned.
You have set up a home there. What will Uncle Huo say when he finds out.
Songya Courtyard is quiet and secure Huo Jingnian said. It is where I stay most often when I return to the city. If we are married it would look strange were I not to live where my wife resides. People would speak. Questions would be raised about our marriage. And when promotion is considered those questions would be asked again.
Zhou Yu fell silent. It made perfect sense. And it was exactly the kind of reasoning Uncle Huo would respect. Huo Jingnian had not reached his position through favor alone. He calculated every move with care.
Satisfied he turned to the matter at hand. Weiwei said you had no time for the portrait session.
You spoke with her.
Yes Zhou Yu said honestly.
Then the two photographs were well received Huo Jingnian observed.
Very well received. Business has nearly tripled Zhou Yu said happily.
Then prepare a proposal and call me back Huo Jingnian said.
This is business I should discuss it directly with Weiwei.
I will not be available Huo Jingnian said firmly.
Come on what if we pay her fifty per design.
Huo Jingnian smiled. You would lose money if they do not sell.
We are friends Zhou Yu said. I can afford to take a loss.
I do not like seeing friends lose out Huo Jingnian said. Offer her twenty percent commission on every sale and give Qiao Zhilan a position at the studio.
Zhou Yu paused. Twenty percent.
Yes. Decline if it does not suit.
It suits perfectly Zhou Yu said quickly. Only I am not sure there will be much profit.
Huo Jingnian was clearly skilled at negotiation as well as service. Bring them on board and the business will grow. Do not be short sighted.