Chapter 132: Employment

The first Christmas had ended in such a peculiar fashion. The day after the holiday, Qiu Fengyu began preparations to reopen his noodle shop.

On the first day of business, many people came to show their support. Despite having just indulged in grand Christmas feasts, they still held a deep affection for Qiu Fengyu’s ramen. This unique flavor was something no other food could replace.

Davis came over to help as usual, and Tim joined in as well. The Yonekura family arrived early, waiting for their bowls of noodles to be served. The place was lively; apart from the local bar, this was arguably the most bustling spot in town. People enjoyed their bowls of noodles while chatting and sharing stories about their Christmas celebrations.

"Hey, Qiu, you really should sell alcohol here," Alan Christopher said after finishing his meal, looking somewhat unsatisfied. "I would enjoy my delicious food even more if I could have a drink with it."

"I agree, that’s a great idea!"

Alan’s suggestion was immediately met with enthusiastic approval from the crowd.

"I’ll consider it," Qiu Fengyu nodded. Having finished his work, he stepped out to chat with them. "Make a note of that, Davis. Go to the city tomorrow and buy some liquor."

Ray Breslin interjected, "I know a wine merchant in Los Angeles. He can guarantee the quality of his stock, whether it's local California wines, Bordeaux vintages from France, or even authentic Dom Pérignon. He’s a man who knows how to get things done. If you want, leave it to me; I’ll get in touch with him for you."

"Alright, it's in your hands. Have him call me, and I'll see," Qiu Fengyu said with a smile. "But you have to ensure he gives me the lowest price."

"I guarantee it. I'll make sure he gives you the best possible rates," Ray promised. The clockmaker likely wanted to repay the favor for the help Qiu had once given him, hence his initiative to take on the task.

Selling alcohol in the noodle shop was permissible, as this had been considered when the initial licenses were applied for; it was registered as a comprehensive restaurant, so there were no concerns regarding business scope or legal issues.

The matter was settled on the spot, drawing cheers and applause from several customers.

"I’ve heard that Chinese dumplings are delicious. Why not sell those as well?" A woman’s voice suddenly cut through the cheering, sounding rather abrupt.

Without looking, one knew it was Ryoko Yonekura. She was smiling as she looked at Qiu Fengyu. "I love Chinese dumplings, and the ones you make are excellent. Why not give it a try?"

Qiu Fengyu glared at her and shrugged. "I’m just one person. I can’t handle that much work..."

"I can help you!" Ryoko said with a grin. "You can hire me. The salary is negotiable; I don't care how much you pay me, is that okay?" The woman looked at Qiu Fengyu with an expression of apparent sincerity. The customers in the shop began to applaud, and an old man even stood up to clap.

"I'll think about it," Qiu Fengyu said, rubbing his nose.

"No, that’s not fair!" a booming voice suddenly shouted. "It’s not fair, Qiu. I’ve asked many times. You can't favor her just because she’s a woman. That’s discrimination. We can have Wesley judge this; he’s a judge, he’ll be fair." The speaker was Sandra.

"Sandra, this is not a matter for the courtroom. Don't drag me into this. Damn it, I just came for a bowl of noodles. I don't want to deal with your nonsense!" Judge Wesley, who had been sitting to the side waiting to watch the show, couldn't help but fire back at Sandra. "I’m leaving. Goodbye, guys!" With that, he slammed a bill on the table and hurried away.

The matter seemed settled. The noodle shop would now offer alcohol and dumplings. Fortunately, the number of portions served remained the same, otherwise, Qiu Fengyu would have been overwhelmed.

"Don't forget what you said," Qiu Fengyu told Ryoko, who had intentionally lingered behind as the Yonekura family prepared to leave. "You must come here to help every noon. As for the salary... do you even care about the pay?"

"No, I care. At the very least, I expect the same treatment as Davis," Ryoko said with a straight face. "We should also sign a formal employment contract. Don't think about backing out."

"Fine, just remember to come tomorrow!" Qiu Fengyu said through gritted teeth.

"What about me? You’re hiring me too, right?" Sandra suddenly appeared in front of Qiu Fengyu. For a man of such massive stature, he moved surprisingly quietly. He had been standing behind Qiu for a long time, finally seizing the chance to speak.

"Are you unemployed? Are you that desperate for work?" Qiu Fengyu glared at him.

"Yes, my requirements are the same as Miss Yonekura's, but I’m stronger than her, and I was in the Navy..." Sandra’s catchphrase. Did this guy really take that much pride in having been a Navy man?

"Get lost, Sandra. Don't annoy me here!" Qiu Fengyu huffed. "I said it before: once I open a bigger restaurant in Los Angeles, I might have use for you. For now... it’s really not possible. But... wait, buddy... I think we could give it a try."

Qiu Fengyu suddenly changed his mind. Since they were going to sell dumplings, this guy would be useful for preparing the fillings. Qiu had a secret method for making dumpling fillings, especially the beef ones. It required someone to mince the meat, form it into a ball, and then pound it vigorously with a wooden club. The more strength applied, the better the result; it made the beef more elastic, causing it to burst with savory juices upon the first bite. This was what made Qiu’s dumplings stand out and what gave them their unique flavor.

"Really? Ha ha... you won't regret it, I promise! I’ll be a great employee." Sandra jumped for joy and punched Qiu Fengyu on the chest.

"Hey, hey, is that how you treat your boss?" Qiu Fengyu curled his lip.

"Oh, god, I'm sorry, I was just... too excited." Sandra laughed sheepishly. "Can I look forward to my job... I can start now, what do I need to do?"

"Mop the floor today. Mop it thoroughly," Qiu Fengyu said, dropping the task. "Then lock up the shop. Alright... Tim, Davis, let's go."

"Good work, buddy, I believe in you!" Davis said with a chuckle, patting him on the shoulder. "Happy to have you as a colleague, but... remember, pal, you're the new guy. You have to show me respect at all times."

"I think I can manage that. I will, Davis. But... don't you go looking for trouble with me!"

"Of course, I’m not that kind of person. Don't worry, I’ll look after you. Goodbye, Sandra, enjoy your work!" Davis left with a grin.

The shop had gained two new employees. While the number of portions sold stayed the same, expenses had increased, slightly reducing the profit, though not by much. After a rough calculation, even after accounting for the two new salaries, Qiu Fengyu’s monthly net income would still hover around eight thousand dollars.

This wasn't a huge amount, but it wasn't small either. After all, Qiu Fengyu only operated during lunch, and the volume wasn't massive. After crunching the numbers, Qiu was quite satisfied. He wasn't really concerned with making money anymore; the few million dollars he had on hand were enough to sustain him for a very long time.

Of course, that was assuming he had no further ambitions.

Right now, Qiu Fengyu truly had no desires. He didn't go looking for trouble, nor did he let trouble find him. Even if it did, he would resolve it immediately. Passive reactions had never been an option for him. He had learned in Ukraine that once you start retreating, you fall into an endless cycle of being hunted, from which it is very difficult to escape.

Back home, Qiu Fengyu went fishing as usual.

His life was very simple now. He spent the morning preparing ingredients, sold noodles at noon, went fishing or drag racing on the highway in the afternoon, even taught Danny how to play basketball, and at night, he would cook a hearty meal before killing time at the bar. His home wasn't lonely; Tim was still on vacation, and the Christmas break had made him quite comfortable.

That afternoon, he caught five salmon. He gave two to the Brit family and took the rest home, filleting the meat and curing it with salt. In a few days, he could steam it. Steamed fish with the right seasonings was an absolute delicacy.

Tim spent his afternoon practicing combat and shooting on his own. He was fully capable of training independently now and didn't need Qiu Fengyu’s constant guidance.

In the evening, Qiu Fengyu went to the bar. Brijin waved at him from afar. "Hey, old friend, haven't seen you in a few days... heard you’ve been doing quite well." He winked suggestively.

"What do you want to say?" Qiu Fengyu sat down and snapped his fingers, and Brijin filled a glass of vodka and slid it over.

"Heard that Racy Lassiter stayed at your place overnight? That’s big news. Brother, I really admire you." Brijin laughed with a lecherous expression. "You know, if this news gets out, man, you'll be famous. Think about it: fame and fortune, a beauty in your arms... that feeling, that’s the best. I’m jealous of you even in my dreams!"

"Do you want to leak the news?" Qiu Fengyu glared at Brijin.

Brijin chuckled. "Not unless you agree to it. I wouldn't do that... see? I’ve always respected you, and this time is no exception... but... man, I’m still curious, did you really sleep with her?"

"No. If I had slept with her, I wouldn't be staying in Abilene. I would be in Los Angeles!" Qiu Fengyu huffed. "Women... no matter how beautiful or famous, they’re just women, Brijin. Don't bring this up again, got it?"