Running to Harborfield just to supply 20 pounds of eel to one noodle shop?
Whitaker Scarlett quickly realized the math didn’t add up. A single trip to Harborfield took over two hours each way, making it a five-hour round trip. For such a small quantity, the effort was hardly worth it. Back in Greenfield County, selling eggs for a day could earn her around 10 dollars. Traveling farther and earning less would be counterproductive.
But what if she could sell over 100 pounds of eel on each trip to Harborfield? Even if she only made the journey every two days, she could still earn 400–500 dollars a month. Granted, four to five hundred dollars wasn’t exactly impressive—saving for two months wouldn’t even cover the cost of Kay’s Rolex.
As Scarlett gazed at the bustling streets of 1983 Harborfield, her eyes sparkled with determination.
The city was brimming with opportunities. She could see it everywhere she looked. The dawn of reform and opening up changed the United Colonies of America. Entrepreneurs with boldness and capital, like Kay, who was rumored to dabble in smuggling, were already amassing fortunes in the shadows. Scarlett knew she was behind, but her resolve burned brightly.
“Then I’ll ask every shop. Surely Harborfield has more than one noodle shop selling eel noodles? If noodle shops don’t want it, I’ll check the restaurants!”
The scar on her forehead had begun to fade, now a soft pink bud against her fair skin. Despite running around under the blazing sun daily, Scarlett remained fair and unblemished. Her delicate voice, though firm with conviction, sounded like sweet coquetry to Kay’s ears.
His good mood only grew. Although he typically looked down on small-scale ventures like this, Scarlett’s enthusiasm was contagious.
“Alright, let’s give it a shot.”
With her determination and drive, Kay was certain Scarlett would eventually rise above the rumors and hardships of Larkspur Village.
Walking beside her on the bustling streets of Harborfield, Kay felt an unfamiliar, exhilarating sensation—a lightness that made his whole body feel alive. Though they hadn’t even held hands, his emotions surged, spilling over in a way he’d never experienced in his 20 years of life.
Together, they arrived at the agricultural market.
Harborfield, being a large city, had major markets in both its southern and northern districts. Scarlett and Kay were at the southern market.
By now, it was already 10 a.m. The early shoppers buying fresh produce had long gone home. The remaining customers were those with leisure time and no shortage of money—the perfect clientele Scarlett was looking for.
Having two people was a real advantage. Kay stayed with the stall while Scarlett swiftly explored the market.
She scanned the area, noting which vendors might be potential buyers for her eels. With a quick assessment of the market dynamics, Scarlett knew exactly how to pitch her goods.
