Chapter 257

The scent of aged wood and fresh shavings filled the air as Evelyn stepped into the quaint little shop.

"I think it has a unique aroma," she remarked without hesitation.

"Your shop carries a blend of fragrances," she continued, her gaze sweeping over the shelves. "You must use different types of wood for your carvings, am I right?"

At first, the shopkeeper looked puzzled, but then his expression shifted to understanding.

"My, my! You have a discerning eye," he said, his enthusiasm returning. "We only work with the finest wood here, and I guarantee you'll find exactly what you're looking for. Miss, what kind of wood would you prefer for your carvings? If nothing here catches your eye, we also take custom orders. As for the price—"

"You do custom work here as well?" Evelyn asked, intrigued.

"Of course! Every customer has unique tastes. Though this is a modest shop, we strive to meet every request. Custom pieces do cost more, but the quality speaks for itself. The most important thing is your satisfaction."

Evelyn appreciated his eagerness. It saved her time. "You make a good point. Do many customers place custom orders?"

"Not exactly," he admitted. "Occasionally, but not many can afford—" He stopped abruptly, suddenly wary. "Miss, why all the questions? Are you here to buy something or place an order? If it's the latter, just write down your specifications and leave a deposit."

Evelyn smiled and glanced around the shop again. The owner, sensing hesitation, grew impatient.

"Miss, if you're not buying anything, feel free to browse."

He turned to leave, but Evelyn pointed to a pair of wooden figurines on display. "I'll take those."

They were carvings of two children—a round-faced boy with a cheerful grin and a little girl with twin ponytails clutching a lollipop. The craftsmanship wasn't flawless, but their expressions were full of life. They were the most charming pieces in the shop.

"Excellent choice!" The shopkeeper beamed, carefully lifting them from the shelf.

Then he turned to the young man lingering nearby. "What are you still sitting around for? Get a box and wrap this up for the lady!"

Slowly, the young man rose and fetched a box and paper bag to package the figurines.

Evelyn approached the counter to pay. "Actually, I'd like to place a custom order. Could it be ready by next month?"

A thought struck her, and she added, "What kind of wood do you recommend? I need something about this size." She gestured toward the unfinished piece in the young man's hands. "I'll provide the rest of the details in a few days. Would that work?"

"Absolutely!" The owner nodded eagerly. "Just leave the deposit, and we'll get started."

"There's one more thing," Evelyn said.

"Name it."

"I want him to carve it for me." She pointed directly at the young man.

His head snapped up in surprise, as if he hadn't heard correctly.

The shopkeeper frowned. "Him? He's still learning. We have master craftsmen for custom orders."

"It's fine," Evelyn cut in. She walked over and examined the young man's half-finished work. "I think he's quite skilled. I want him to handle my piece."

"I can't do it," the young man muttered.

Evelyn straightened, unfazed. "I believe you can. But if you refuse, I'll take my business elsewhere." She took the paper bag and turned toward the door.