Chapter 300 Lily's Pet Store

Saturday morning, Ryder headed to Houston's pedestrian street.

It was the opening day of Lily's pet store, and Ryder had promised to be there. No way he'd break that promise!

At 9 AM, the store officially opened.

The ceremony was simple. Friends sent flower baskets, Lily gave a speech, and they cut the ribbon.

Lily had invested in a big pet store, about 1,600 square feet. It sold popular pets like cats and dogs, plus rabbits, turtles, hamsters, and more. The place was cozy and well-equipped.

Ryder complimented, "The location and decor are awesome. You'll be a big boss soon!"

Lily rolled her eyes. "As the president of Maple Real Estate, are you being serious or just teasing?"

Ryder looked innocent. "I'm being serious!"

Lily pouted, not buying it.

Then she whispered, "Did you watch those videos I sent you yesterday?"

Ryder nodded. "Yeah."

"Did it turn you on?" Ryder's eyes widened, embarrassed. "Lily, this is a public place. Don't talk about that stuff. Be serious!"

Lily laughed, her eyes sparkling. "I love seeing you squirm!"

Ryder stayed silent.

"Alright, I won't tease you anymore. I need your help with the first day's promotion. Here are some flyers. Please, Mr. Clark, help distribute them!"

She handed him a stack of flyers with a big smile.

"Since you put it that way, I'd be a jerk to refuse."

Ryder smiled wryly and took the flyers.

He stood at the entrance, handing out flyers to passersby while Lily and Charlotte managed the store.

The street was busy, and many people were interested in the pet store. Ryder spent the whole morning handing out flyers and explaining things to people. He was parched and sweating but didn't complain.

By noon, Lily ordered takeout and asked Ryder to take a break. Ryder said he was fine, took a box of food and a bottle of water, and kept handing out flyers, eating in between.

Charlotte watched him, lost in thought.

"Charlotte, what are you thinking about?" Lily asked suddenly.

"Nothing!" Charlotte quickly answered, looking a bit flustered. She took a few bites of food, looking distracted.

Lily pretended not to notice. She rested her chin on her hand, watching Ryder's sweaty back. "I think a person's good qualities shine, whether they're rich or poor."

Charlotte looked at Lily, confused.

Lily continued, "Let me tell you a story. Back in high school, during summer vacation, all our classmates either went on trips, attended tutoring classes, or just relaxed at home.

"But there was one exception in our class, and that was Ryder!

"I saw him many times handing out flyers alone on those hot streets. By the end of the day, his clothes would be drenched in sweat, and he'd look pale.

"Even so, Ryder never complained. Once, I asked him why he was working so hard. He shyly said his sister was about to start middle school, and his family didn't have the money, so he needed to earn her tuition. I'll never forget his smile and the determination in his eyes."

Charlotte's eyes trembled.

Lily sighed, "In today's world, women look for men who are responsible, dependable, and loving. But when it comes to choosing, we're often swayed by external factors. Sadly, those choices often lead to unhappiness. So, are a man's good qualities more important, or are external conditions? It's hard to say."

Charlotte pressed her lips, feeling emotional. She could relate.

If she had trusted Ryder back then, even if he wasn't wealthy and was just an ordinary guy, they could have opened a small shop. It would have been tough, but they would have been happy and secure. But there was no "if" in this world.

Lily and Charlotte sighed and got back to work.

Not long after, they heard a loud voice from outside. "Who's the owner of this store? Come out now!"

Lily thought something was wrong and quickly ran out.

A middle-aged man in a tank top with tattoos on his shoulders stood in front of the store, holding a fierce-looking Doberman. He didn't look friendly.

Lily smiled and greeted him, "Hello, sir. I'm the owner. How can I help you?"

The man looked her up and down and smirked, "You're quite pretty! I'm Michael Rodriguez, the owner of the pet store across the street."

Lily politely said, "Nice to meet you, Mr. Rodriguez. I've heard a lot about you."

Michael waved dismissively. "I'm not here for pleasantries. Who allowed you to open a pet store across from mine?"

Lily was taken aback. "I've got all the necessary permits. It's allowed."

Michael's eyebrows furrowed. "It doesn't matter if others allow it. The point is, did I allow it?"

He sneered, "If I don't allow it, this pet store can't be opened!"

Lily frowned. Back in high school, she used to fight with boys every day. She wasn't weak.

She responded firmly, "I'm sorry, Mr. Rodriguez, but opening a store isn't up to you. If you have no other business, please leave."

Michael's face darkened, and he said arrogantly, "Interesting! On this street, who doesn't show me respect? And you, a woman, dare to disrespect me? Do you believe I'll let my dog tear you apart?"

As he spoke, he prepared to release the Doberman's leash.

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