Chapter 294
The Ford Residence was vast, emanating a sense of heritage and vintage charm at every turn. It was apparent that the house was a fortune passed down through generations. Despite its refurbished exterior, the interior retained traces of its storied past
Contrary to my expectations of splendidness, simple but significant touches like a hand–painted vase casually placed in a corner spoke volumes. It was an antique from the Victorian era, valued at over a million dollar
Gregory strode leisurely, hands in his pockets, embodying a sense of calm.
He led me past the grand dining room, heading straight for the backyard, where two elegantly dressed elderly ladies were from afar One was savoring her coffee by the fireplace while the other was trimming a potted plant with scissors.
Approaching them, Gregory poured himself a cup of coffee and joked, “Ladies, you’re in better shape than I am, braving the outdoors in this chilly weather?
Adah playfully hit Gregory’s back, scolding, “You rascal, you’ve finally decided to come back, huh?”
“Oh, leave the boy alone! He’s come to see us, after all, Ramona interjected, pulling Gregory to her side protectively.
Squeezing her shoulder, Gregory replied. “Exactly, Ramona knows how to treat me right. Grandma here loves to find fault.”
Their banter left both ladies in a mix of laughter and tears.
Gregory motioned for me to come closer and introduced me, “This is Jane, a friend I’ve recently made in RiverCity.”
Catching on quickly, Adah remarked, “What a beautiful young lady, so gentle and graceful. Greg tells us you’ve taken over your parents‘ custom design business, and you’re doing quite well?”
“Adah, Ramona,” I began, feeling somewhat relieved at their kindly demeanor, “I’ve recently taken over my parents‘ brand. We do custom orders and online sales. Thanks to Mr. Ford’s kindness, he looks out for a friend’s business like mine.“.
Adah raised her eyebrows in surprise and then covered her mouth with a laugh, glancing at Gregory. “Do you have something on her? You’ve always been a troublemaker, and it’s the first time I’ve heard someone praise you so highly!”
I couldn’t help but almost smile at that. Indeed, I was counting on Gregory to help promote my business, so a little flattery was
necessary.
“Nothing gets past your keen insight,” I played along
Unfazed by being called out, Gregory retorted, “She needs something from me.”
Adah turned to me. This boy can be a handful. If you need anything, you might be better off asking us old ladies instead…”
“Grandma! Don’t start. Why not just show her your clothes collection so she can get a sense of your fashion tastes?” Gregory quickly Interjected.
Despite her words, Adahis actions showed nothing but affection, “Fine, fine, as youv
wish”
Adah led me upstairs to a spacious living room, which opened into an expansive wardrobe. The majority of the clothes matched the style she was wearing that day.
I smiled, “Madam, for this custom order, would you like to stick to your usual style, or are you thinking of trying something new?”
“Up to you,” Adah responded without hesitation, her face expressing genuine openness, “You young people surely know more about fashion than an old lady like me. You handle the design. 11 handle the wearing.”
The client wasn’t picky, but I knew I couldn’t take the task lightly. Back in the yard, I subtly inquired about Adah’s preferences. Adah didn’t put on airs like someone from a distinguished family. She was straightforward and exceptionally approachable.