Chapter 282: The First Day of March Carried a Lingering Winter Chill

The first day of March carried a lingering winter chill with hints of warmth. The Ward family Spiced Stew had chosen this auspicious day—the traditional "Dragon Raises Head" festival—for its grand opening.

A brand-new red-and-gold sign hung prominently above the entrance. Rose Jackson and her husband Nolan Brooks stood by the door, both excited and nervous. They had prepared tirelessly for this moment.

"Rose, do you think this will work?" Rose fidgeted with her hands, her eyes darting toward the street. She had deliberately worn a red coat for good luck.

Her younger sister, Elena, patted her hand reassuringly. "Relax, sis. Our secret spice blend is one-of-a-kind. Customers will come back for more."

To attract customers, Elena had come up with an idea—printing flyers. Full-color printing was too expensive, so they settled for black-and-white ones with enticing slogans like "Spicy, fragrant, unforgettable!" Nolan, along with Luke and Aaron Jackson, had slipped them under doors before dawn.

The restaurant had hired two waitstaff, but with family pitching in, they managed. Luke handled the spice preparation in the kitchen, while Nolan and the kitchen assistants washed and plated vegetables. Rose took charge of the cash register, while Aaron and the waitstaff attended to the front.

"Firecrackers!" Luke shouted as he and Aaron lit two strings of firecrackers. The loud pops drew curious onlookers.

Yet, by noon, the restaurant remained empty. Rose twisted the edge of her apron anxiously. "What do we do now?"

Elena was considering calling Adrian Stone for help when a thunderous drumbeat echoed in the distance.

"What's that?" Nolan peered outside.

A procession of drummers in bright red costumes marched toward them, followed by ten sharply dressed young men carrying exquisite flower baskets.

"Mr. Adrian Stone congratulates The Ward family Spiced Stew on its grand opening!" Their synchronized greeting turned heads.

Elena’s heart warmed. This man always knew how to make things perfect.

Before they could recover, another delivery arrived. "Mr. Robert Hale wishes The Ward family prosperity and success!"

Seizing the moment, Elena announced loudly, "For our opening month, all dishes are 10% off!"

The announcement worked—several hesitant passersby stepped inside. Nolan hurried to greet them while Rose explained the menu. The kitchen soon buzzed with activity.

Just as they breathed a sigh of relief, a truck screeched to a halt outside. A dozen workers unloaded potted plants—money trees, cycads, and even rare orchids, each tied with a red ribbon.

"Who sent these?" Nolan stopped one of the workers.

The man wiped his brow. "A Mr. Yu ordered them as a gift for Dr. Ward."

Elena froze. Mr. Yu? She didn’t know anyone by that name...