Chapter 147: Money, Finally in Hand!

The senior craftsmen at the factory and I all praised it without cease, deeming it highly marketable, especially the two Modified Cheongsams and a trench coat; they would be highlights at the Canton Fair.

Chen Qiwén added, "Jiang Sheng's observation report on the northern market is also very valuable; some viewpoints align with ours, while others offer new perspectives."

"Regarding the cooperation proposal, we have discussed it and are very interested. If the two of you are available, we hope to further refine the mode of cooperation."

"For example, we can first provide a batch of the latest spring‑summer fabric swatches, some of which are attached to the letter. We also ask Miss Su and Jiang Sheng to conduct some design trials for the northern market based on them."

"If the designs mature, we can handle pattern making and the first small‑scale precision production run; the products can be trial‑sold simultaneously at our Guangzhou storefront and your shop, and profit sharing can be discussed in detail…"

True to the letter, a thick kraft paper bag was attached, containing dozens of brand‑new fabric swatches of varying textures, colors and patterns.

Many of them are imported or high‑end blended materials that Su Ruan has never seen in Guangzhou; their hand feel and luster are superb!

This letter and these fabric swatches are, for Su Ruan and Jiang Ran, who are currently caught in a media vortex, nothing less than a strong dose of encouragement.

"Great!" Jiang Ran said, holding the letter and pacing excitedly in the room, "The Chen family is serious this time! Dear daughter‑in‑law, look at these fabrics, how wonderful! If our new series uses them, it will surely reach a higher level!"

Su Ruan gently stroked those smooth or draping fabrics, and a spark of creativity reignited in her eyes.

Cooperating with the Chen family is not merely gaining another source of goods or a sales channel.

It also means their designs can access more cutting‑edge materials and techniques, and be tested by a broader market.

That is far more meaningful than working behind closed doors or being confined to the local market.

"Their proposed approach is very prudent, starting with design trials and small‑scale production, keeping risk controllable," Su Ruan analyzed, "For us, it is an excellent opportunity to learn and improve."

"Exactly!" Jiang Ran moved to the desk, "We need to write a proper reply and clarify our ideas. By the way, the demolition issue… should we mention it in the letter?"

Su Ruan paused, shook her head, and said, "Let's not bring it up for now. The cooperation is based on our mutual business and capabilities; mixing in money could sour the relationship."

"When the compensation funds arrive, we'll have more ample capital and can take on greater risk or investment in the cooperation; we can discuss it then without delay."

"Now, let's advance with our designs and sincerity."

Jiang Ran thought it over and agreed, "Your thorough consideration, dear daughter‑in‑law, settles it—let's do it that way!"

The two drafted the reply through the night.

Su Ruan earnestly responded to Madam Chen's praise of the designs, presented her new ideas for fabric usage, selected several of the most inspiring materials, and pledged to produce new design sketches as soon as possible.

Jiang Ran then offered detailed suggestions on the concrete steps of cooperation, communication methods, and potential issues, presenting them in a clear, pragmatic, and feasible manner.

After sending the letter, the two poured all their energy back into the shop.

External turmoil still persisted, but with a clear business goal and positive feedback from afar, their hearts became steadier and more fulfilled.

Su Ruan, with astonishing efficiency, used the new fabrics sent by the Chen family and, within just a week, produced five fresh autumn‑winter design drafts.

This time, the designs were more mature and bold, featuring internationally trendy silhouette elements while cleverly incorporating Chinese details, allowing the high‑quality fabrics to shine perfectly.

Jiang Ran then began optimizing the store's display and planned to launch a more upscale sub‑series of the Art Realm Series after the "South Breeze, North Rhythm" line succeeds.

A dedicated area for showcasing and handling such top‑grade‑fabric, avant‑garde custom pieces will further elevate the store's brand tier.

The specific demolition compensation plan was finally announced half a month later, with the compensation standards more generous than people had expected.

Preliminary calculations show that, after taxes and fees, the three small buildings owned by Su Ruan will yield a cash compensation that is astronomical for this era.

That evening, when the news was confirmed, the Jiang family convened another family meeting.

This time, the atmosphere was solemn and cautious.

"The money will be in our hands soon," Jiang Jianguo said first, "How shall we use it? You two, as the main parties, have any concrete ideas?"

Jiang Ran glanced at Su Ruan, received her affirming look, and said, "Dad, Mom, Grandma, Sister, we've thought it through. This money will be divided into four parts."

"The first part, twenty percent, will improve our home life. We'll buy a spacious, bright apartment in a better location for Mom, Dad, and Grandma, finish the renovation so they can live comfortably, and also prepare a generous dowry for Sister."

That is filial piety and family affection.

"The second part, thirty percent, will serve as the Chongsu development fund. Besides upgrading the shop and acquiring more advanced equipment, we also plan to use this money to visit Shanghai, Beijing again, and even… if the cooperation with the Chen family goes smoothly, we'd like to invest in some of their new projects or jointly establish our own higher‑end brand."

That is business ambition.

"The third part, forty percent, will seek stable long‑term investments. For example, purchasing government bonds or looking for suitable commercial properties or land to invest in. Money shouldn't sit idle in a bank; it should keep generating wealth, preparing for the future and for Jinjin and An'an's education and growth."

That is a safeguard for the future.

"The remaining ten percent," Su Ruan said, her voice gentle yet firm, "we intend to allocate a portion, under the name of Chongsu or personally, to donate to the county welfare home or set up a small fund to help impoverished girls' education. Take from society and give back to society."

After hearing their plan, Jiang Jianguo remained silent for a long while, only gazing deeply at his son and daughter‑in‑law.

Li Huijuan dabbed the moisture from the corner of her eye, while Jiang Nainai kept chanting, "Amitabha, good child."

Jiang Jiaojiao wore a face full of pride and emotion.

"Good!" Jiang Jianguo finally gave the table a heavy thump, his face breaking into an extremely satisfied smile, "Well planned! Filial piety, ambition, foresight, and kindness! I'm at ease handing this money to you. We'll do exactly as you said!"

After completing all procedures, the demolition compensation finally landed solidly into the new bank account Su Ruan opened.

The long string of numbers, even though she had mentally prepared, still gave Su Ruan a slight dizziness when the bank manager personally confirmed it, her palms lightly sweaty.

Jiang Ran stood beside her and squeezed her hand firmly.

The money is finally in hand.