Chapter 308 - Chapter 308: Chapter 316: United Intentions (2/2)
Although the previous craftsmen’s skills were lacking, Master Cao, as a senior master, could see the effort that went into making these pieces—at the very least, their attitudes were commendable. Besides, those craftsmen were from Yiyang Prefecture and had their merits. And certainly, refining is a greater testament to skill than rebuilding from scratch; it’s a challenge in itself.
Su Wenyue’s face brightened with joy, “Then I must impose on Master Cao; this really is the best outcome.”
Master Cao’s actions aligned perfectly with Su Wenyue’s wishes. She hadn’t presented the finished jewelry to her two cousins partly because she harbored such hopes. However, as she was not yet fully familiar with Master Cao, she couldn’t risk making the request outright. To her delight, Master Cao broached the subject first. Thinking of the hairpin that seemed alive with intricate details, Su Wenyue eagerly anticipated what the jewelry would look like after Master Cao’s revisions. Since the designs were her own, her expectations were even greater.
“Speaking of which, I’ve designed a few more patterns these past days. Would Master Cao care to have a look?” Su Wenyue thought about the patterns she had drawn in the last two days, which were two sets designed for herself. They had required much thought, and she felt quite satisfied with them. She couldn’t help but bring them out at this moment, fully aware that Master Cao’s work on the current jewelry would be time-consuming and that he might not have the time to start on new pieces right away.
Upon hearing this, Master Cao expressed great interest. Seeing just a few of the jewelry designs, he knew that anything crafted by the Madam would be extraordinary. When he received the patterns from Su Wenyue, he was ecstatic, muttering “Madam really has great talent,” as his gaze fixated on the drawings, pondering how to bring the jewelry to life.
Su Wenyue did not interrupt Master Cao’s focus and after a while, he emerged from his contemplation, realizing he had been somewhat overzealous: “Please forgive my excitement, Madam. In this life, I have dedicated myself to these arts, and I can’t help but become overjoyed when I encounter such fine designs.”
“It’s quite alright. I understand Master Cao’s feelings. I will leave these patterns in your care. Take your time to study them, and I will ensure that you have what you need for the task.”
“Congratulations on acquiring such talent,” Grandma Chen noted, seeing Su Wenyue’s happiness. Master Cao had been personally recruited by the Master with great effort, and the fact that he was so considerate of the Madam’s wishes made Grandma Chen even happier for her. A man who, despite his many commitments, is willing to go to such lengths for a woman, clearly holds her dear in his heart.
“Benefit from your well-wishing words, Grandma Chen. As for the craftsmen, I leave their well-being in your care, Grandma Chen, from their clothes and food to their accommodations. They must be looked after thoroughly. If they are indeed sincere in their service to me, especially Master Cao, his share shall be increased by one more degree.” Su Wenyue highly valued such talent, as they were to be her proverbial golden geese. Although all the craftsmen except Master Cao were bound by a Death Contract with the Han Family, she hoped they would choose to stay of their own accord, and not just because of the contract.
“Rest assured, Madam. I will take care of everything properly,” answered Grandma Chen cheerfully, cognizant that she might not be as capable as Aunt Li but confident she could manage this task, also grateful that the Madam still trusted her.
After giving instructions to Grandma Chen, Su Wenyue returned her attention to preparing the New Year’s gifts. But before she could settle down, someone announced a visitor with a tone of joy.