227 Chapter 227 Engagement (3)
On the other side, the men’s table was more reserved. Because the three men from the Zhang family had all eaten roasted lamb skewers at Grassland Taste Restaurant, they weren’t that surprised by the deliciousness.
However, they had their eyes on the seasoning of the meat. So after three cups of alcohol, Mr. Zhang asked, “In-law, I heard that there are a lot of spices in Shanghe Village?”
“That’s right. Chengrui’s restaurant needs it, but it’s too expensive to import from afar. Thus, they asked us to plant some in the village. It’s a win-win situation.” Father Gu nodded happily.
In addition to planting 50 acres of spring wheat this year, their family had planted the most chilies and cumin in the village. The Gu family even planted 30 acres of cumin at once as more people were focused on planting chilies.
As long as the water level could last until their crops ripened, they could still live in peace, even if there was no harvest for the year’s second half.
“If you’re interested, you can try it next year, but it’ll depend on how much Chengrui needs,” he continued.
Gu Chengrui nodded. “We can’t decide on this now as it depends on the weather conditions. If the weather returns to normal next year, I’ll take in all the chilies even if you plant them all over this area.”
“Why do you sound like you want to open a few more restaurants?” Second Uncle Gu asked out of curiosity.
“It depends on the situation. Even if we don’t open more restaurants, we can still sell them through river transportation, right?”
Of course, what he didn’t say was that even if he couldn’t sell them as raw chilies, he could make them into chili sauce, chili oil, and so on. In other words, it would not be a bad investment, no matter what.
“That’s nice. If you plant it again next year, remember to let us know, and we’ll also give it a try.” Father Zhang raised his glass and said.
“No problem. If you want to plant it, I’ll let big brother make the trip over.” Gu Chengrui raised his glass and promised.
“Leave this matter to me.” Gu Chengzhi immediately echoed.
He knew that Gu Chengrui was indirectly supporting his sister, so he had to support her too.
The meal ended harmoniously, and Zhou Ying also knew that after this engagement, the betrothal gifts would be sent; the betrothal gifts were 20 taels of silver and a set of silver jewelry.
The wedding date was set for April 28, which was less than a month away. It was nearly half a month earlier than the patriarch’s eldest son’s wedding.
After the meal, Zhou Ying and Gu Chengrui returned to town, using the excuse that they had work to do.
Seeing that it was still early, the two carried 20 pounds of white noodles, 20 pounds of rice, 5 pounds of beef, and two slabs of cured meat, each weighing about four pounds, to Gu Ziyi’s house.
Gu Ziyi, who was about to leave with her servant maids, saw them entering with things in their hands. She was stunned for a moment before she smiled. “Thank you for remembering about my moving in. Hurry up and come in.”
After that, she quickly let the servant maids take the gifts, and then the three went to the main living room.
Gu Chengrui sized up the courtyard on the way and said, “You sure have good taste. This courtyard is quite suitable in all aspects.”
“I think so too, and it’s pretty quiet here.” Gu Ziyi nodded. After they entered the living room, she invited them to sit. “There’s a lot of space here, so you guys can come over whenever you’re free.”
“Sure. If you need our help too, don’t be shy.” Gu Chengrui said.
“Alright, I won’t be polite with you if I need help. Oh, right. Do you guys know where I can hire a female teacher in town?” Gu Ziyi asked.
“Female teacher?” Gu Chengrui was surprised by the question. “I’m not sure about this, but I’ll ask around later.”
“But what kind of person are you looking for? Or rather, what kind of knowledge do you want the children to learn?”