Going Power Shopping – Part 4 (Rewritten)
“CEO Hou is your husband?” Rose asked, her voice tinged with disbelief. “I’m not sure, Madam, but designer clothes might be more suited to someone like you.”
Anna smiled gently. “There will always be a place for designer pieces in my wardrobe, but I need something more unique and practical for work. From what I’ve seen here, I’m confident you can handle both the professional attire and the one-of-a-kind pieces I’m after. Before my marriage, I worked at a firm, so please, treat me as you would any client. I intend to continue working during my marriage.”
“You strike me as honest and trustworthy,” Rose replied, her tone softening. “I imagine that’s how your parents raised you, and that’s why I feel comfortable doing business with you. I believe the unique pieces you make for me will not only benefit my wardrobe, but also bring more business your way. When word gets out that you’re the one behind these designs, it will surely be good for you.”
Anna nodded, pleased with Rose’s understanding. “I’m glad you feel that way.”
“Tell me if I’m wrong, but I assume your father is the designer, while you and your mother deal with the female clients?” Anna asked, curious.
“Yes, Madam Hou,” Rose confirmed.
Suddenly, a loud voice rang out from the other side of the shop. “Rose, where are you?”
“In the dressing room, Mother! Father’s here too, with a client. We’ll be out in a moment.”
“Rose, is it? Don’t tell your parents exactly who I am just yet,” Anna said, her voice firm but calm. “Once we leave, I will, subject to my approval, allow your father to take full creative control over not only the suits and wedding dresses but also any other items I need. I want formal and semi-formal dresses, jackets, slacks, tops—anything you offer. As for materials and cost, I trust you’ll get the best. And rest assured, there will be no issues.”
Anna turned to leave with Rebecca and the others, but not before adding, “Please, take your time to work out the details. I’ve already discussed with Rose why I want you to create these items. She’ll explain everything to you.”
As they exited, Rose’s parents greeted them warmly. “Father, Mother, this is one of Miss Rebecca’s VIP clients. She needs work clothes and would like us to design them for her. I’ve taken her measurements and noted what she’s looking for. She’s given us creative freedom with the designs and wants top-quality materials. She’s also happy to assist in sourcing materials if needed.”
“Understood,” said Rose’s father. “Our usual practice is to require a down payment of 50,000 per suit today, and another 50,000 at the first fitting, with the remaining balance due upon delivery. The reason for such an upfront payment is to cover materials in case the client decides not to proceed. Is that acceptable?”
“Yes, that’s fine,” Anna replied. “Would it be acceptable if I pay the initial down payment and the first fitting fee all at once?”
“Of course,” Rose’s father said, nodding. “Since you’ve already discussed everything with Rose, she can process your payment today.”
Anna nodded, and walked to the counter where Rose was still pondering the charges for her extensive request. “Rose,” Anna whispered, “given the size of the order, would a 700,000 deposit work? We can always settle the rest when I come for the fitting.”
“Not a problem,” Anna said. She then pulled out a card with a modest limit and handed it to Rose. “Please charge that amount.”
As the payment was processed, back at Hou Enterprises, Hou Yi was in the middle of a meeting when he received a notification from his bank. Anna had just spent 700,000 at a tailor’s shop using one of their cards. He smiled to himself, feeling a mix of relief and pride. “Thank goodness my mother and aunt convinced her to spend money on herself—she deserves it.”
As he sat back in his chair, Hou Yi also realized something about his wife. She was never going to be conventional, but that was something he admired. The custom-made clothes were perfectly suited to her. Unlike many who sought out designer labels for status, Anna looked for quality and fit. This, he realized, was a sign she was settling into her new role with confidence. And this made him relax. The people around him, however, couldn’t quite place the change in him. They whispered about who had caused this shift, but soon enough, they would see it fade, and he would return to his usual self.
Meanwhile, as Anna and the group were leaving the store, Anna paused and turned around. “Thank you for your assistance,” she said, with a gracious smile.
With Rebecca, they continued to browse the areas of the mall Rebecca deemed appropriate. Eventually, they made their way back to the VIP area, returning to the room where they had started. As the door was closing behind them, Anna heard a voice echoing down the corridor.
“What in the world is happening here? I called ahead and requested the largest VIP room, and now you’re telling me it’s occupied? This place is useless! Get me that room—now!” Yang Lin’s voice rang out, filled with frustration.
