《Transmigrated as the Mother of the Abused Male Lead in a Tragic Novel》


 Chapter 1: Winter Vegetable and Shrimp Porridge

    <h4>Chapter 1</h4>


    "You''re pregnant, I''ll prescribe some folic acid, calcium tablets and multivitamins for you. Make sure to get plenty of rest on your own," the doctor calmly handed Ding Sha the prescription and sent her on her way.


    As she walked out of the room, Ding Sha gently touched her still t belly, sighing softly as she nced at the pitifully low bnce on her phone. After asking around, Ding Sha found the hospital pharmacy to have the best prices.


    At the entrance of the maternity hospital, happy couples walked by in pairs while Ding Sha couldn''t help but feel a bit lonely and pitiful by herself.


    Ignoring the strange nces from those around her, Ding Sha got on her electric bike and headed home.


    On the way, she passed the farmer''s market and after some hesitation, thinking of the not yet fully formed baby in her belly, spent over twenty yuan on half a jin of shrimp that weren''t very big.


    After winding through small paths for a long time, she finally arrived at the small vige on the outskirts of the city, passing by gossiping elderlydies who pointed and stared.


    Ding Sha returned to her shabby small courtyard that she called her own.


    Back home, she immediately went to the kitchen, taking out a wok and some rice and starting a small fire to cook congee before bringing over a little stool to sit by the faucet and remove the shrimp shells.


    She heated oil in the wok and stir-fried the cleaned shrimp heads, releasing a tempting red shrimp oil and delicious aroma. Ding Sha carefully blew away the rising smoke, stirring the congee with adle.


    The rice had bloomed beautifully.


    She poured in the shrimp oil, then added the marinated fresh shrimp as well.


    It felt like something was still missing.


    After thinking for a bit, Ding Sha wiped her hands on her apron, squatted down and took out an inconspicuous small jar from a pile of pots and containers in the corner, throwing in some salted winter vegetables into the congee.


    After simmering for a while longer, she scooped out a bit to taste after blowing on it to cool it down, satisfied with the vor. She carefully lifted the hot wok with a cloth wrapped around her hands and brought it down from the stove.


    This was dinner for today.


    Ding Sha sat alone in the somewhat dim and spacious main hall, quietly drinking her congee.


    Today was the third day since she transmigrated into this world.


    She had already realized that she was unable to make any choices that went against the plotline.


    Like getting an abortion.


    She didn''t even know who the father of the child was.


    Because she had transmigrated as the ill-fated mother of the male lead who died during childbirth in a tragic novel.


    The original book only briefly mentioned her a few times.


    The story mainly revolved around the male lead''s difficult life, borating on his misfortunes and trials.


    And right now, the male lead of that tragic story was still in her belly.


    She had no useful information whatsoever.


    It seemed for now, the only thing she could do was safely carry the male lead to term and give birth to him.


    Then, wait for death.


    Thinking this, Ding Sha couldn''t help but sigh again.


    She was poor, had no family, no education, and no job.


    All she had was a little brat of a child that she had to feed along with herself.


    Oh right, she also had a pretty face.


    Ding Sha touched her own face.


    Her original appearance was only ordinary looking, but having transmigrated into a great beauty, she actually felt a bizarre sense of satisfaction amidst her indignation.


    Knock knock knock...


    Someone was at the door.


    "Who is it?" Ding Sha didn''t get up, just yelling loudly.


    "It''s me, I''vee to bring you some things!"


    It was the neighbor Zhang Granny.


    Ding Sha hurried to open the door.


    Zhang Granny was kind to her, often bringing over little bits of vegetables grown in her own yard every few days.


    "Granny Zhang," Ding Sha opened the door to let her in.


    "Eating?" As soon as Zhang Granny entered, she smelled the rich and tempting aroma.


    "Cooked up some congee," Ding Sha supported the elderly woman with bad legs, "Would you like some?"


    Unable to resist, Zhang Granny nodded.


    With just a wall separating their homes, whenever it was mealtime, the smells from Ding Sha''s kitchen left her restless and dissatisfied, no matter what she ate herself.


    Ding Sha went to the kitchen to grab a set of bowls and chopsticks, serving Zhang Granny a bowl of congee.


    The aroma was even thicker now. Zhang Granny eagerly took a sip right away.


    It was rich and soft on the tongue, the shrimp sweet and fresh.


    She quickly finished the entire bowl, praising, "Your cooking skills are really great!"


    pping her own thigh, she said, "I almost forgot my purposeing here!"


    "I came today to discuss something with you," Zhang Granny rubbed her hands together. "My brother''s daughter-inw''s nephew is holding his wedding banquet in a couple days. Turns out that rascal absentmindedly forgot to book the caterer ahead of time."


    "Now with the date almost here, they can''t find a chef and the whole family is about to be worried to death. So they came asking me for help to see if you might be interested, and we''ll pay you wages all the same."


    Ding Sha instinctively wanted to agree, but swallowed back her words before they left her mouth.


    She touched her belly, feeling somewhat troubled.


    On one hand she wanted to earn this money, but on the other, she worried about messing up in her condition.


    Seeing her hesitation, Zhang Granny considerately said, "I won''t force you to take this job if you really don''t want to. Don''t worry about letting this granny down, we won''t take offense if you decline."


    Ding Sha looked at her gratefully. "It''s not that I don''t want to take it, it''s just..."


    She still didn''t know if she should tell Zhang Granny about the pregnancy, since her ID showed she had just passed 18 years old a few months ago.


    If she said it, it was inevitable she''d be questioned about the father. And if she hid it, she couldn''t hide it for long, with her belly going to swell up in a few months.


    Thinking this, Ding Sha steeled herself. "I''m pregnant, afraid I can''t handle such a big banquet."


    Zhang Granny looked at her in surprise.


    This girl still with a child''s face was pregnant?!


    Considering she had been living alone ever since moving here, Zhang Granny paused, then still asked who the child''s father was.


    Ding Sha was prepared with her story. "He went to Guangdong to work and will be back after earning money."


    As for what would happenter...they''d deal with it then.


    Zhang Granny looked at Ding Sha with some pity, clearly seeing through the excuse used to trick a young girl. She felt bad for her and hesitated, still worrying the girl would suffer losses.


    "You''re still young, you can slow down and have a childter..." She gently advised.


    Without this child, perhaps the girl could have had a better life.


    But Ding Sha just shook her head blissfully. "I''ll wait for him toe back."


    Seeing this, Zhang Granny didn''t try to persuade her further. To be honest, she also felt somewhat ufortable trying to convince the girl to get an abortion herself.


    They could only take extra care of the girl from now on.


    Zhang Granny shook off her thoughts and began instructing Ding Sha in detail on points to pay attention to during pregnancy from her own experiences.


    What foods were good for the body, what things to avoid, any precautions to take. Zhang Granny was very thorough.


    Ding Sha listened attentively.


    She had always been someone who went with the flow. Now that she had decided to keep this child, she would treat him well.


    The first step was taking care of her health. She couldn''t let him be born weak and sickly after all.


    After Zhang Granny left, Ding Sha sank into thought.


    The reality was she didn''t have a husband working away in Guangdong earning money. She had to think of ways to make money herself.


    Otherwise, not only would having a child be impossible, even just living would be an issue.


    Distractedly washing the dishes, Ding Sha mulled over ways to earn.


    This was a rural area on the outskirts of a city. There weren''t many vigers, with most peoplemuting into the city for work during the day and riding motorbikes back home to sleep.


    Ding Sha suddenly remembered passing construction sites on the way back from the hospital.


    With the continuous urban expansion, roadwork and housing construction was nonstop, and Ding Sha recalled hearingints from the workers she passed by.


    That''s it!


    She could sell boxed lunches at the construction site entrances!

 Chapter 2: Sauteed minced meat with Sour Beans

    <h4>Chapter 2</h4>


    Ding Sha decided to take action right away. The next morning, she got up early to go to the wholesale market to buy vegetables and disposable lunch boxes, then came back home.


    On her way back, she stopped by the construction site gate to ask the security guard some questions.


    After Ding Sha got home, she drank some water, took her folic acid, and then dove right into the kitchen.


    She had already decided the night before that she was going to make three dishes today.


    Sour green beans fried with minced pork, cabbage stir-fried with pork slices, and cold tossed bean thread noodles.


    She grabbed arge handful of mouth-watering sour green beans from the sour vegetable crock and cut them into small pieces. As Ding Sha was cutting them, she couldn''t resist popping a piece into her mouth.


    Crunching them noisily, the sour and refreshing taste made her unconsciously start humming a song.


    She heated oil in a hot wok, saut¨¦ed the scallions, ginger and garlic until fragrant, then added the chili powder and doubanjiang to bring out the red oil and spiciness before adding the fresh, evenly mixed fatty and lean minced pork. After stir-frying for a bit, she added the sliced sour green beans and fresh fava beans.


    When it was nearly cooked, she added a touch of her secret weapon, Sichuan peppercorn water, and gave it a final stir.


    The savory, mouth-watering Sour Green Beans Fried with Minced Pork was done.


    Next was the Cabbage Stir-Fried with Pork Slices.


    She cut the pork belly into uneven slices, not worrying about their size. At the construction site, most of the work was physicalbor, so no matter how much rice they ate, it wasn''t as good as meat for fighting hunger.


    She cut the fresh, juicy napa cabbage on the diagonal and set it aside.


    After saut¨¦ing the aromatics, she only added a few dried chilies for vor. Just a bit of salt, sugar and chicken stock powder was enough to make it tasty.


    Finally she cut the bean thread noodles into thin shreds and added shredded carrots andtro, then poured over a versatile sauce she had blended from dozens of ingredients toplete the cold dish.


    Next was packing the lunch boxes.


    Ding Sha packed a total of 35 boxed lunches, neatly packaging them and cing them in an insted foam container affixed to her electric bike.


    After checking the time and seeing it was about right, she locked up and headed towards the construction site.


    Just after 11:10, workers had just started trickling out of the construction site gate. Ding Sha found some shade from a tree not too far away and ced her sign with the payment QR code next to the lunchboxes she had prepared.


    She was good-looking, so people noticed her here very quickly, but they just gathered in small groups ogling her while murmuring to each other instead ofing over.


    Ding Sha didn''t mind waiting calmly.


    Before long, a sturdy-looking worker with an honest face came over hesitantly.


    "Miss, are you selling lunch boxes?"


    "Yes, 15 yuan each," Ding Sha immediately put on a smile and nodded, opening the insted box to show him the neat and tidy lunchboxes inside.


    "Really with two meat and one vegetable dishes?" The worker pointed at her sign doubtingly.


    Afraid he wouldn''t believe her, Ding Sha told him the menu for today.


    The worker rubbed his belly. These past few days he had been eating nothing but takeout, he was already sick of all the nearby options. But the lunches provided at the construction site were just nd boiled veggies and broth, which did nothing for his hunger.


    Hesitating for a moment, the worker felt in his gut that this pretty girl wouldn''t cheat him, so he said, "Alright, give me one to try."


    After scanning the payment code, the worker looked at the scorching hot ground in the sun outside the shade. He simply squatted beside Ding Sha at the roadside and opened up his lunchbox right then and there.


    Ding Sha nced at him but didn''t say anything, just took out a small folding stool from her bike basket and gave it to him.


    The worker plopped down on the curb, cing the lunchbox on the seat as he held the rice in his hands.


    Ding Sha had packed each box very full, and the worker was quite satisfied with the portion size as he looked it over.


    As soon as he opened the lid, the rich aroma of the stir-fried dishes immediately surrounded the worker''s nose. He instinctively took a deep breath, and his stomach rumbled loudly almost instantly.


    Unable to wait any longer, he picked up a piece of fatty pork and stuffed it into his mouth. After just a couple chews, he felt theplex andyered juices from the meat explode in his mouth. This was the first time he had ever eaten pork belly with this kind of texture.


    Not only was it not greasy, but also very tender and smooth.


    He scooped up some sour green beans and ate them together with rice. His mouth still had room so he shoved in a huge mouthful of bean thread noodles as well. The cold dish was tinglingly spicy and refreshing going down. The shredded carrot was crispy and pleasantly crunchy to chew.


    He couldn''t help but pick up another huge bite and stuff it in.


    The worker couldn''t help but close his eyes blissfully.


    This food was just too delicious!


    Some coworkers were drawn in by the smell. "Bro, how is it? What''s it taste like?"


    "Amazing!! So delicious!!"


    As if afraid they wouldn''t believe him, he shoveled down a few more mouthfuls of rice and asked Ding Sha with his mouth full, "Miss, are youing back tomorrow?"


    "If business is good I''lle back," Ding Sha smiled.


    Seeing her smile, the coworkers stared dumbfoundedly, eyes going blurry. Then looking at the burly guy beside them happily eating away, "Beauty, give me one too!"


    As soon as he got the lunchbox, he also eagerly sat down next to the burly guy, shoving aside space on the little folding stool. "Really that delicious?"


    Saying that, he also took a first bite of the fatty pork right away.


    After chewing a couple times, a look of astonishment appeared on his face. Mumbling a couple words, he could wait no longer and happily started shoveling down the food.


    With two living ads eating away enthusiastically, Ding Sha quickly sold out all her lunchboxes.


    The workers who didn''t get to buy eyed the lingering aromas in the air somewhat resentfully. "Why didn''t you make more?"


    "I''ll make more tomorrow," Ding Sha gave an apologetic smile.


    She tallied up the profits in her head, extremely delighted.


    Under the burly guy''s reluctant urging, Ding Sha rode her electric bike back home.


    After deducting costs, she had earned at least 200 yuan today.


    That was including the cost of the wholesale lunchboxes.


    The lunchboxes were cheap, and she still had a lot left at home.


    Counting this way, she could earn quite a lot in a month.


    Ding Sha happily sat in the yard neatly stacking the cash she had received between the pages of a book.


    The red date and longan rock sugar soup she had set to simmer before going out had now melted into a smooth broth. Opening the lid, the sweet aroma burst out. Shedled herself a bowl and slowly drank it as she sat in the yard.


    The yard was empty without much furnishings. Ding Sha took some money to go visit the vige carpenter Uncle Wei.


    "Uncle Wei, are you there?" Ding Sha knocked on the door.


    Uncle Wei was the only carpenter left in the vige, his work was superb, but now that machines ruled the world, the old man could only dejectedly return to the vige and retire.


    "Oh,ing!" Uncle Wei responded. "What can I do for you, littless?"


    "I want tomission a rocking chair from you," Ding Sha gestured with her hands, "Do you think you could make it?"


    "I can, I can!" The old man was extremely delighted. He opened the door and invited her to sit inside, even pouring her a cup of syrupy tea to drink.


    "Do you have any requirements for the type of wood?" Uncle Wei rubbed his hands and took out a rough little notebook.


    Ding Sha shook her head. "Regr is fine."


    Uncle Wei wrote a few characters in his notebook, then looked up somewhat embarrassed, "Lass, us carpenters have an old rule, need to collect a deposit first..."


    Ding Sha smiled and nodded. "Of course there needs to be a deposit. How much do you usually collect?"


    Uncle Wei thought for a moment. "Give me 100 yuan for now, I''ll deduct it from the final price when it''s done."


    As he spoke he tore off a slip of paper and wrote on it. "Don''t worry, I''ll give you a receipt."


    Ding Sha handed over 100 yuan, and carefully folded the receipt to tuck away in her phone case.


    "Then I''ll get going first, Uncle Wei," Ding Sha stood up. "I''m staying next door to Granny Zhang, just call for me when it''s done."


    "Sounds good, sounds good," Uncle Wei saw her to the door.


    "I''ll finish it for you as quickly as possible."


    Ding Sha thanked him and headed home. She had just reached the small vige square in the middle when she was blocked by someone.


    It was the youngest son of the vige chief, Wang Kun.


    He had dropped out of school at just 15 or 16 andzed about the vige every day. His meaty triangr eyes often shone with ill intent.


    Wang Kun blocked Ding Sha''s path, not letting her pass.


    "Hey beautiful, where you going? How ''bout youe back home with me instead? The little woods''ll work too!"


    Ding Sha looked at him expressionlessly, then walked around him and continued on her way.


    Her look made Wang Kun''s heart itch unbearably, further confirming his belief that this slut was trying to seduce him.


    So without hesitation he reached out to grope Ding Sha''s waist.


    Ding Sha dodged his roving hand as if she had eyes in the back of her head.


    Wang Kun felt she was deliberately being coy, thinking he couldn''t indulge her little temper.


    So he arrogantly dered, "Hey,e help your daddy stand."


    Ding Sha looked at him in astonishment, then turned and left without looking back.


    Wang Kun had been posing arrogantly but Ding Sha never came to him. He watched her walk farther and farther away, so angry his nose went crooked.


    He had to teach this slut a lesson!

 Chapter 3: Stewed Pig’s Feet with Soybeans

    <h4>Chapter 3</h4>


    The next day early in the morning, Ding Sha went to the market to carefully select and buy two pigs'' trotters.


    She didn''t know if it was because she was pregnant, but Ding Sha suddenly started having cravings, able to think of seven or eight different things she wanted to eat in a day.


    She used hot water to scald off the remaining hairs on the pig''s trotters, then rinsed them with running water.


    She rummaged through boxes and cabs to find some rock sugar to stir fry until it was colored, then added water, seasonings, soy sauce, boiled it on high heat, then turned down the heat to stew slowly.


    When it was nearly cooked soft, she added a basinful of soybeans she had soaked overnight, and continued stewing over low heat.


    There were still some vegetables left over from yesterday that hadn''t been used uppletely, so Ding Sha simply prepared the exact same vegetable dishes today.


    She just added an extrayer of stewed meaty-vored soybeans on top of the rice.


    Only after everything was ted did she put the remaining vegetables on a dish to eat up. The pig trotters were stewed soft and vorful, with a thick savory sauce, a perfectbination of salty and sweet.


    As soon as it entered the mouth it melted away, making it impossible to discern whether it was the trembling pig skin or the fatty meat.


    After eating her fill at the satisfying meal, Ding Sha then rode her electric bike to the construction site.


    Quite a few people were already waiting there.


    Some had even brought their own small carts and were waiting.


    As soon as Ding Sha had just parked her bike stably they swarmed over, voices ringing out saying "I want one."


    Ding Sha didn''t get flustered at all, she just opened the box, scanned a code and gave out portions. It was only chaotic for a few minutes before the people behind automatically lined up.


    The fifty boxed lunches were quickly sold out.


    A group of brawny men sat in rows squatting next to Ding Sha, heads lowered as they ate with gusto, making asional passersby feel it was quite a funny sight.


    The burly man ate with oil dripping down his mouth. "Too delicious, too delicious! Will you make this again tomorrow?"


    Ding Sha shook her head. "I''ll make something different tomorrow."


    The vegetables and rice at home were used up, so in a bit she had to go lug back a bag of rice. Tomorrow morning she still had to go buy vegetables.


    The brawny man dug into the soybeans. "These beans are fragrant."


    He smacked his lips. "They have a meaty vor, did you stew them with meat?"


    Ding Sha nodded. "I stewed them with pigs'' trotters, but pigs'' trotters are too expensive, I can''t afford the cost."


    The brawny man waved his hand unconcernedly. "That stuff is fragrant for sure, but nothing beats big slices of meat.


    Ding Sha smiled. She thought for a moment and said, "Then I''ll make braised pork rice tomorrow, with stewed five-spice pork belly, it''s super fragrant."


    When the brawny man heard this, he wiped his mouth and chuckled twice. "Good, good! Let''s eat pork belly!"


    Ding Sha bought rice and went home. Seeing the unpolished rice was pretty good quality, she stir-fried some ginger rice tea to store for drinking.


    Granny Zhang came over holding a small bowl of free-range eggs. "Girl, what have you been busy with recently? I came over a few times and saw the door locked."


    Ding Sha brewed a cup of ginger rice tea for her. "I haven''t been busy, just made some boxed lunches to go sell at the construction site."


    Granny Zhang eximed, and said worriedly, "Don''t overexert yourself, how have you been feeling recently? Do you feel weighed down?"


    Ding Sha shook her head. "I haven''t felt anything really, not tired at all. Just sometimes I crave sour foods."


    "Craving sour means a boy, you have a little master in your belly!" Granny Zhang said with augh.


    A little master is good, he can grow up to provide for his mother, so this girl can suffer a bit less.


    Of course Ding Sha knew there was a son in her belly.


    Not only a son, but a male lead at that.


    It''s just that his luck wasn''t good.


    Born an orphan eating meals from a hundred families, bullied at school, and having his love stolen by a viin.


    Tragic beyond measure.


    "I brought you some eggs, eggs from my own chickens. They''re free-range and nutritious, eating them will be good for your health." Granny Zhang put the eggs on the table.


    "Thank you Granny Zhang." Ding Sha gratefully epted them. She had seen the expensive prices of free-range eggs at the market that morning.


    "No need to thank me..."


    "Is anyone home?" Granny Zhang''s voice was interrupted by someone shouting and knocking on the door.


    Ding Sha was startled for a moment before standing up to open the door. "Someone''s here, who are you looking for?"


    Opening the door she saw it was the vige courier. Since the vige mostly had elders, women and children staying during the day, they had set up a courier to help deliver things and letters.


    "Are you Ding Sha?" The courier looked to be in his twenties. When he looked at her exquisite and delicate face holding the letter, his eyes were full of amazement.


    "I am." Ding Sha nodded in confusion.


    "Your letter." The courier handed it to her. His expression seemed to want to say more, as if he still wanted to chat with her.


    Ding Sha epted the letter nkly. She thanked him, then immediately closed the door.


    The courier scratched his head and left.


    Ding Sha looked at the handwriting on the envelope, somewhat stunned. Granny Zhang saw her silent and unmoving for a long time, and asked worriedly, "What''s wrong girl?"


    Ding Sha shook her head, not speaking.


    Granny Zhang stood up to take her leave. "I still have eggs steaming at home, I''ll go back first. Let me know if you need anything."


    Ding Sha smiled and nodded, seeing her to the door before sitting back down on the small stool, taking out the letter again to stare nkly.


    The sender written on the envelope was Nanjiang No. 1 Prison.


    She hesitated for a moment before opening the envelope to read the letter.


    "Sha Sha, how have you been recently? I miss you very much, I miss our little courtyard.


    I''m sorry, I''ve let you down. But will you wait for me? I will definitely give you a good life!


    I haven''t built a swing for you yet, I haven''t nted the grapes you wanted yet either, I haven''t nted vegetables in the open space behind the yard yet, and I haven''t made up for the wedding you wanted yet.


    Can youe see me? I really miss you."


    It was signed Xiao Jun.


    Ding Sha read through the entire letter two more times.


    Finally she sighed while staring at the name Xiao Jun.


    If nothing unexpected happened, this should be the unfortunate child''s father.


    She sat in the small courtyard in a daze, her mind still aplete nk without any memories.


    Should she go see him?


    Ding Sha hesitated for a moment.


    Standing at the entrance of Nanjiang No. 1 Prison, Ding Sha felt somewhat apprehensive. She unconsciously touched her belly, as if she could really feel a small life pulsing there.


    "Miss, can I help you with something?" The middle-aged uncle in the guardhouse saw her lingering hesitantly outside for a long time, afraid she was too scared to speak up, so he took the initiative to ask.


    "Sir...I, I''m here to visit..." Ding Sha quickly replied.


    "Visiting, ah," the middle-aged uncle was used to it and pointed her down a small path to the side. "You have to go that way, there''s a door in the back. Go in and fill out paperwork, once approved you can visit."


    "Oh...thank you, sir," Ding Sha hadn''t expected there was an application process. She thanked him and hurriedly went that way.


    Sure enough she saw a small door.


    She knocked and heard someone call out "Come in."


    She went inside. "Hello, I''d like to apply for a visit."


    The young police officer looked at her in surprise for a moment. "Oh...then please fill out this form first."


    He handed her a stack of papers and a pen.


    Ding Sha took the papers to a seat in the corner and quietly started filling it out.


    The young officer looked at her delicate and beautiful face, and couldn''t help feeling it was a pity.


    He wondered who she was here to see...


    Just as he was thinking this, Ding Sha finished the form and came over. "I''m done, is this okay?"


    She seemed somewhat uneasy.


    The young officer poured her a cup of water and gently said, "Don''t be afraid, have some water first."


    After that he picked up the paperwork and went back to hisputer.


    His expression was somewhat strangelyplicated. "You''re here to visit Xiao Jun?"


    "Mm." Ding Sha didn''t know why he asked this way, she could only nod.


    "You''re his wife?" The young officer asked again.


    Ding Sha lowered her head and murmured yes. "We agreed to register once we were of age."


    The pitiful look in the young officer''s eyes made her nervous heart tighten.


    What was going on?

 Chapter 4: Spiced Pork

    <h4>Chapter 4</h4>


    Ding Sha sat nervously for a while before following the young policeman into the room next door.


    They walked through several winding corridors and passed many doors before finally stopping in front of an iron gate.


    "Go on in. I''lle get you when it''s time," the kind young policeman said, pushing the door open a crack for her.


    Ding Sha thanked him, took a deep breath, and gathered her courage to push the door fully open.


    The space inside wasrge, with a very big table. Behind a transparent wall sat a young man with a shaved head.


    He looked thin, with a scar over his eyebrow. His gaze towards her was eager and ardent.


    Xiao Jun had waited for her for a long time. Now, seeing her timidly push open the door, not daring toe in, he was anxious but also afraid of frightening her. He stood up slightly, leaning on the ss, and coaxed gently, "Don''t be afraid, Sha Sha, it''s me."


    "Come slowly, don''t stand there, you must be tired. Sit down."


    Ding Sha unconsciously touched her belly again, but finally strode forward towards him.


    Seeing here over, Xiao Jun revealed a bright, delighted smile. He had been worried that his Sha Sha would be unhappy or cry or ignore him.


    As she drew closer and closer, Ding Sha could hear the intense beating of her heart. Her eager nervousness made her somewhat short of breath.


    She staggered two steps, her vision went ck, and she iled her arms for bnce, grabbing onto the chair back nearest her.


    Before fainting, she reflexively put her hand over her belly to protect it.


    Xiao Jun watched helplessly as she floated down into a faint. His eyes reddened anxiously. He jumped up like a panther, pounding the wall, yelling her name in helpless tension.


    "Sha Sha! What''s wrong, Sha Sha!! Someonee! Save her!!"


    His outburst drew the prison guards'' attention. They swiftly burst in and pinned his arms behind his back onto the table.


    Xiao Jun was still struggling. He twisted his head to see Ding Sha''s condition but couldn''t see her face, only her thin, weak figure copsed on the cold cement floor.


    At that moment Xiao Jun bitterly hated his own powerlessness.


    The young policeman heard themotion, opened the door, saw Ding Sha, and ran in to pick her up and carry her towards the infirmary.


    Xiao Jun had calmed down now. He stopped struggling. "My wife is unwell. Can I go to the infirmary to see her?"


    The prison guards held him down tightly, not daring to rx their grip. This brat was very wild, and his martial arts skills were good too. If they let him get away even for a moment, it would surely lead to big trouble.


    Xiao Jun let them exert their strength on him without resisting. "I just want to see my wife. I want to know how she is. I''m worried about her."


    The two guards exchanged a nce. "Let me report to my superior first. You go back for now, and we''ll see about itter."


    But Xiao Jun shook his head. "I can provide important information, but I have a condition. Let me see my wife."


    The two looked at each other again. So this brat was finally willing to talk?


    After thinking for a moment, one of them directly radioed Xiao Jun''s demand to his superior.


    Shortly after, approval came through the radio for Xiao Jun''s request.


    When Ding Sha awoke, she felt like she was lying in a warm, somewhat bony embrace. She opened her eyes a crack and saw Xiao Jun holding her, his face full of worry.


    Before she could feel awkward and say anything, Xiao Jun immediately brought over the ss of room temperature water that had been cooling nearby. "How do you feel? Still ufortable? Have some water?"


    Ding Sha did indeed feel thirsty. She wanted to drink it herself, but Xiao Jun wouldn''t allow it. So she could only sip the water from Xiao Jun''s hand.


    The doctor from the infirmary came out holding test reports. "Youngdy, do you know your own physical condition?"


    Seeing his somewhat stern expression, Ding Sha bit her lip and nodded.


    Xiao Jun also frowned, preparing to hear the doctor''s report on Ding Sha''s condition.


    But the doctor''s next words made him open his eyes wide in shock.


    "How could you run around pregnant like this? Don''t you know how weak your body is?" The doctor looked at her reproachfully.


    Ding Sha lowered her head guiltily without speaking.


    But Xiao Jun''s hand tightened on her protectively. He held Ding Sha close anxiously, stuttering, "Preg...pregnant?"


    "Yes, probably two or three months along," the doctor supplemented.


    Xiao Jun just looked at Ding Sha and repeated his question. "Sha Sha, you''re pregnant?"


    Ding Sha murmured affirmation. "Three months along."


    Xiao Jun was somewhat at a loss. He had left for less than two months. If he had known Sha Sha was pregnant, he absolutely would not have...


    Moreover, Sha Sha was so obedient, so loving towards him.


    Xiao Jun mouthed the words "pregnant" over and over, only btedly feeling the joy. He babbled excitedly, "A child...I''m going to be a dad..."


    "Sha Sha! I''m so happy!" His delight was pure and intense. His expression was as if illuminated.


    But Ding Sha didn''t know how to face him. She avoided his gaze, looking to the doctor. "Doctor, why did I suddenly faint like that..."


    "Your health is very poor, you have anemia and malnutrition. Carrying a baby is of course very taxing on you," the doctor said, sitting in the chair by the bed. "Go home and drink more milk and eat more eggs. It will be good for you."


    Ding Sha listened carefully.


    Of course Xiao Jun felt her avoidance. He thought it was because she still resented and med him for not being by her side, especially now that she was pregnant...


    Xiao Jun was incredibly pained. His gaze was dark as he silently made a decision.


    Ding Sha exchanged just a couple words with Xiao Jun before making excuses about needing to take folic acid and fleeing as if flying away.


    Xiao Jun sat alone in the infirmary for a long time until the sun set. Only then did he stand up as if having made a decision.


    "I want to see Officer Liu. I have something to say."


    The doctor looked at him in surprise.


    Since being brought in, this brat had refused to say anything, giving Officer Liu a headache. But after seeing his pregnant wife once, he was now willing to talk...


    Ding Sha returned home withplicated feelings. She sat by the stove, distractedly cooking eggs.


    She waspletely unprepared for Xiao Jun''s appearance.


    But she could not deny that she did not feel aversion towards Xiao Jun. It was as if she had known him for a long time.


    Ding Sha felt it was very strange, but could not find a reason why.


    She attributed it to her original self''s familiarity with Xiao Jun.


    She cut the pork belly into thick slices, nched them, then added in new rock sugar to the hot oil to caramelize. After the meat turned golden brown she added soy sauce, bay leaves, and other seasonings, brought it to a boil, then turned down the heat to simmer.


    Before long the rich fragrance floated out into the air.


    When the stew was nearly done she added the eggs she had boiled the previous day to stew together until the vor was fully absorbed and the stew was aromatic.


    Ding Sha picked out a few pieces of meat and egg to go with the cold tossed cabbage she had prepared, and brought a serving over to Zhang Granny''s ce.


    As soon as she knocked on the door, Zhang Granny''s little grandson poked his head out. His little nose twitched as he smelled the food. Seeing it was Ding Sha, he shyly ran back to call out Zhang Granny.


    Zhang Granny came out from the kitchen. "What is it, girl?"


    "I made some food, for you to try," Ding Sha handed over the bowl. As she lowered her head, she saw Zhang Granny''s little grandson peeking out from behind her legs, curious but shy.


    Seeing her look his way, the little boy withdrew his head bashfully. But soon the aroma drew him out again.


    Ding Sha smiled and stroked his head.


    Zhang Granny did not stand on ceremony with her. "Then granny will ept. If you need anything, just tell granny. Granny has everything here."


    She cheerily pulled Ding Sha in, insisting she have a bowl of granny''s egg and brown sugar water. But Ding Sha quickly waved her hands. "No no, I still have to go sell food at the worksite."


    Zhang Granny patted her forehead. "Of course, just look at my memory. Alright, you go on. Remember to tell granny if you need anything!"


    Ding Sha smiled and agreed, before heading back with light steps.


    Today the brothers were also already waiting in their usual spot at the worksite. They had set up the tables, benches, and stools themselves, watching expectantly for her direction. It was as if everything was ready and they just awaited her arrival.


    Da Zhuang cheerfully helped her unload and set up, then lined up to be the first to buy food without modesty.


    After receiving his food, he immediately sat to the side and dove in impatiently. Ever since Ding Sha had mentioned pork belly stew yesterday, he had been thinking about it for a whole afternoon.


    Even when he slept he drooled.


    Taking a deep breath, he opened the lid. The contents were shiny and red, glistening. He poked it with chopsticks and the meat was soft and tender. The air was already permeated with the tantalizing aroma.


    Next to it was a hard boiled egg cut in half, and the side dishes were fresh and appetizing. The pork was fatty but not greasy. After one bite, Da Zhuang almost shed tears.


    How long had it been since he ate something so delicious?


    He wolfed down several more mouthfuls of rice, then couldn''t help but nce again at Ding Sha who was still selling food.


    No matter what, they had to get her to keep selling boxed lunches here!

 Chapter 5: Braised noodles with shredded pork and Green Pepper

    <h4>Chapter 5</h4>


    Ding Sha chuckled happily, clutching her bulging purse in the yard while humming a tune.


    At this rate, she would be able to escape poverty and be rich in no time!


    Just as she was thinking this, there was a knock at the door. "Hey girl, are you in? It''s your Uncle Wei!"


    Ding Sha was a little surprised to hear this. It had only been a few days!


    Could the lounge chair be ready already?


    She hurried over and opened the door. Sure enough, she saw Uncle Wei with a pipe in his mouth, pulling a cart with a beautiful lounge chair tied onto it.


    "Come in,e in," Ding Sha quickly stepped aside to let him in, and even ran to pour Uncle Wei a ss of water.


    After carefully selecting and cing the lounge chair under the big old chinaberry tree in the yard, which had huge shade, Ding Sha also paid the bnce owed.


    Not only did she pay the bnce, she ced another order for new furniture - a bed.


    The bed inside her room always creaked, even just turning over in the middle of the night was enough to startle and wake her up. She was always worried that the bed would copse.


    She might as well get a new bed to sleep soundly.


    Uncle Wei left satisfied with the money, and Ding Shaid down contentedly.


    She closed her eyes andy in the gently rocking rocking chair, quietly preparing to take a nap.


    As time slowly passed, Ding Sha''s purse grew fatter and fatter. She generously made herself delicious meals every day, and her cheeks soon became rosy.


    She no longer looked so rickety, as if a gust of wind could blow her away.


    That morning, as usual, Ding Sha got up early. She was already slightly showing, with a little bump protruding from her belly, looking as if she had eaten too much and gotten a potbelly.


    She felt a little ufortable doing anything lightly and carefully, for fear of identally touching her belly.


    After things settled down in a couple days, she would go to the hospital again for a checkup. She thought of the book''s description of the male lead''s weak constitution and felt uneasy.


    Just as she was about to go to the vegetable market to buy some ingredients, her gaze froze as she opened the door.


    Squatting at the door was a bald teenage boy. He looked skinny, with a scar on his eyebrow, and looked at her with an ingratiating yet uneasy gaze.


    It was Xiao Jun.


    Ding Sha was silent for a moment. Seeing his somewhat nervous look, she sighed, "Come in."


    Having received approval, Xiao Jun immediately cheered up. He strode over to Ding Sha''s side and looked her up and down carefully, satisfied to find that she had not gotten thinner.


    Only then did he lower his head to look at her slightly protruding belly, smiling and greeting her stomach, "Hello there, baby, Daddy''s back."


    Ding Sha was a little worried at first, but his teasing made herugh. "It''s only been four months, she can''t even hear you clearly yet."


    Xiao Jun earnestly supported her back inside. "So how many months until she can hear me? I''ll read her stories then."


    Ding Sha counted on her fingers. "Five months at the earliest."


    Xiao Jun nodded. "Then I''ll say hi to her again next month."


    Ding Sha was amused, but suddenly remembered what she had to do. "I''m going to the vegetable market to buy groceries. Why don''t you rest first?"


    "I''ll go with you."


    Xiao Jun was adamant about apanying her out, insisting on going with Ding Sha no matter what.


    Ding Sha could only take him along.


    But when they got to the vegetable market, seeing Ding Sha buy a lot of vegetables, Xiao Jun was puzzled. "Why buy so much? It''ll go bad if you can''t finish it."


    "To sell!" Ding Sha was in a good mood. She was lucky today to buy fresh pork tenderloin and pig trotters.


    "Sell?" Xiao Jun was confused.


    Only then did Ding Sha remember that she hadn''t told him about selling lunch boxes now.


    But before she could exin, he became anxious.


    "Don''t sell anymore! You''re pregnant now, your health is poor, you''re exhausted as it is, why sell lunch boxes!"


    "I have money! I''ll provide for you!"


    Ding Sha was a little upset, but didn''t want to make a scene right in the vegetable market. So she angrily grabbed the meat she wanted and walked away.


    Xiao Jun was shocked and quickly grabbed a bunch of vegetables, hopped on his electric bike, and went after her.


    But Ding Sha simply wouldn''t speak, not only not speaking, she wouldn''t even look at him.


    She just kept her head down and kept walking forward, almost bumping into someone in the middle.


    Xiao Jun was frantic. "Dear, don''t be angry, I''m begging you, is it hard carrying that? Put it on the bike. Are you tired? You can ride the bike if you''re angry, I''ll walk, okay?"


    Hearing this, Ding Sha felt a little helpless, unable to stay mad.


    The passersby were all watching this exceptionally good-looking young couple have a tiff, asionally letting out friendlyughs.


    Ding Sha had thin skin and was somewhat embarrassed.


    "Let''s go home!" She was toozy to sulk, sat on the back seat, grabbed Xiao Jun''s clothes, and gruffly said.


    "Okay, okay, home, home."


    Xiao Jun happily pedaled the little electric bike home.


    When they got home, Ding Sha still wasn''t talking. She turned and went straight into the kitchen. Soon, she brought out two steaming hot bowls of noodles.


    The snowy white noodles soaked in the shiny brown rich broth, topped with many crispy thin slivers of green pepper neatly lined up, along with very satisfying shredded lean meat, giving off a slightly spicy appetizing aroma.


    Just the smell made one''s appetite soar.


    Put on the table, she looked at Xiao Jun, who was eyeing it hungrily, pped the table with a straight face, and said, "What are you staring for,e eat."


    Xiao Jun was already hungry. Hearing Ding Sha''s words, he immediately sat down, grabbed his chopsticks, and started wolfing it down.


    Seeing him eat so voraciously, Ding Sha felt a little distressed and softened her tone, "Eat slowly, don''t choke. There''s more in the pot if it''s not enough."


    Xiao Jun couldn''t be bothered to reply. He made muffled sounds with his head practically buried in the bowl, eating up the noodles.


    After finishing a bowl to alleviate the difort of his empty stomach, he went to the kitchen todle out another full bowl, and peeled some garlic. Only then did he slow down and eat properly.


    "When did youe back?" Ding Sha asked as they ate.


    "Last night." Xiao Jun replied.


    "Why didn''t youe in?"


    "Didn''t want to startle you..." Xiao Jun grinned foolishly, his fierce demeanor gone.


    "How...did you suddenly get out?" Ding Sha hesitated, but still asked.


    She didn''t know what Xiao Jun had gone to jail for, or how he got out, but considering her circumstances these days, she had to admit.


    Having Xiao Jun here would reassure her a lot more.


    Xiao Jun noisily slurped up the noodles in his bowl. Looking unsatisfied, he took Ding Sha''s leftovers and continued eating. "Let out on parole, won''t be going back anymore. It''s a long story, I''ll tell you slowly."


    Ding Sha was relieved to hear he wouldn''t be going back, but also worried. She started mentally calcting how long the money she earned wouldst.


    Feeling about seventy percent full, Xiao Jun wiped his mouth and belched as he stood up. "Wife, let me show you something."


    "Hmm?" Before Ding Sha could react, she saw Xiao Jun holding up the shabby travel bag he had carried over that morning.


    It looked full, but she didn''t know what was inside.


    Xiao Jun put the bag in front of her and motioned for her to open it. Still puzzled, Ding Sha pulled the zipper.


    After just one nce inside, she almost fainted from shock.


    It was full of hundred yuan bills!


    Stacks of brand new, neatly banded hundred yuan bills!


    An entire bag full!

 Chapter 6: Chicken Custard with Sesame Oil

    <h4>Chapter 6</h4>


    Ding Sha was so anxious that she didn''t know what to say. Xiao Jun, who was originally looking forward to her praise, suddenly realized that her expression was wrong, "Dear, what''s wrong?"


    "Where did you get so much money from?" Ding Sha was worried when she saw so much money, afraid that he had just gotten out and was about to go back in again.


    Only then did Xiao Jun realize what she was worried about. He quickly pulled her to sit down and gentlyforted her in his arms, "Don''t worry, don''t worry, I''ll tell you slowly."


    Xiao Jun thought for a moment to organize his words, "Let me start from when we first arrived here."


    "I brought you out of the vige and took you so far away from home. And made you suffer so much because I didn''t have the ability. I let you suffer poverty by following me."


    "At that time, someone found me and told me to take the fall for his boss. As long as I agreed, he would give me a lot of money, at least one million."


    Ding Sha was stunned for a moment.


    Prior to this, she had imagined many reasons why Xiao Jun was put in jail, and she had also mentally prepared herself in many ways, but she had never thought that he had agreed to take the fall for someone else in order to make money.


    When he was in prison, Xiao Jun also regretted it. He thought of Sha Sha and was also afraid that she would be bullied by others.


    There was no going back once the bow was drawn. Xiao Jun could only grit his teeth and continue. He was even more afraid that his betrayal would implicate Ding Sha.


    He would rather die than let Ding Sha get hurt.


    It was not until he missed her so much that he worried about her, and also to give her the money he had obtained, that he wrote a letter. It was only when Ding Sha came that he knew that Ding Sha was already pregnant.


    The unprecedented regret made him almost speechless. He could not let Ding Sha suffer the hardship of pregnancy alone, and then go through the torment of giving birth.


    He found Detective Liu, who had noticed something wrong and kept trying to persuade him. The two reached an agreement to release smoke bombs so that Xiao Jun could act as bait to catch the gang in one swoop.


    Only after confirming three times that there were no fish that slipped through the did Xiao Jun cautiously retrieve the money he had originally hidden for Ding Sha and returned to this small courtyard.


    Xiao Jun swore that he would take good care of Ding Sha and their child.


    After listening to his whole story, Ding Sha finally breathed a sigh of relief. Only then did she realize that she was still in his arms, her face slightly flushed as she moved away, "...Then...what do you n to do with the money?"


    Ding Sha didn''t know if this counted as ill-gotten gains.


    Xiao Jun assured her, "It''s all for you to use. Detective Liu hinted that he would turn a blind eye and let me off this once."


    Only then was Ding Shapletely relieved, "Then...let''s save the money. The baby will need money in the future too."


    "Whatever you say." Xiao Jun didn''t have any opinion at all.


    Ding Sha gently stroked her belly, lost in thought. Xiao Jun''s appearance was something the book had never mentioned before. She could feel that the plot had undergone an earth-shattering change for some reason.


    But so far, it seemed to be a good thing.


    Even if she couldn''t escape the fate of difficult childbirth in the end...at least the baby wouldn''t be an orphan, right?


    After thinking about it for a long time, Ding Sha suddenly realized what time it was and hurriedly got up. Xiao Jun also became anxious when he saw her, "What''s wrong, dear? Don''t hurry, don''t hurry!"


    Only then did Ding Sha remember that there was still an obstacle here that prevented her from selling lunch boxes.


    "I have to go and prepare the lunch boxes..." Ding Sha was toozy to bother with him at the moment.


    Xiao Jun wanted to object, but seeing the impatience and irritation between Ding Sha''s brows, he swallowed his words and said instead, "Don''t worry, I''ll help you. Don''t tire yourself out."


    Ding Sha looked at Xiao Jun in some surprise. Xiao Jun gently flicked her beautiful Qiong nose, "I''m your husband, freebor."


    Ding Sha raised her hand to touch her own nose, and somehowughed along with him.


    Xiao Jun was very efficient in his actions and unexpectedly skilled in his work. Dishes that usually took Ding Sha a long time to prepare, he finished in about two-thirds of the time.


    In the end, Ding Sha did the cooking, but all the other work except cooking was done under Ding Sha''smands as she sat on a small stool to the side.


    They arrived at the construction site on time down to the second, just like usual. The brawny construction workers were also eagerly waiting in ce.


    Then they saw the pretty girl suddenly had a boy next to her, they were surprised but also very jealous and anxious.


    Because Ding Sha''s cooking was delicious, and she looked as beautiful as a fairy, and she spoke and acted gently, everyone secretly called her the Beauty with Lunchboxes behind her back.


    There were no shortage of young men on the construction site who liked her, and worked hard with the hope that one day they would pluck up the courage to confess to her.


    If they could marry her...that would be too perfect!


    Da Zhuang was still first in line. He looked at Ding Sha, then at Xiao Jun, who was handsome but clearly not easy to provoke. He swallowed and asked, "Miss, is this... your boyfriend?"


    It was Ding Sha''s first time introducing Xiao Jun to outsiders. Looking at Xiao Jun''s indifferent expression towards others that became gentle when he turned to look at her, she said shyly, "He''s my husband."


    In an instant, Da Zhuang felt as if he heard many hearts shatter.


    He couldn''t help but look back at the queue of young men behind him and sighed to himself.


    However, he didn''t show anything on his face, but smiled and praised them for looking good together.


    After hearing these words, Xiao Jun''s face, which had been cold all this time, suddenly softened a little.


    He had Ding Sha sit on the chair he brought to rest, then turned around and crossed his arms to upy the main battlefield for selling lunchboxes.


    One by one, the young men looked at Ding Sha longingly, red at Xiao Jun, but it didn''t affect their buying food and going to the makeshift dining area set up by their crew to enjoy the delicious meal.


    Today was rushed, so Ding Sha didn''t make anything tooplicated.


    A tomato and egg stir-fry, with red and yellow neatly arranged and looking delicious. The tomatoes were sweet and sour, and the eggs wererge pieces that were very tender and vorful.


    A shredded pork with green peppers, the peppers turned a deeper green after being saut¨¦ed in hot oil, and the thinly sliced ??marinated pork was plentiful and long,bining to create an irresistible aroma.


    Finally a cold cucumber sd, dotted with bright red chili powder, still with that refreshing spicy and appetizing vor.


    The only downside was that it was very dangerous for the rice, leaving one feeling unsatisfied at the end.


    After Xiao Jun sold all the lunchboxes, he tidied up and prepared to take Ding Sha home to rest.


    Ding Sha was actually a little introverted, and didn''t always know how to handle other people''s concern. She was a little confused, but she was indeed a little tired, so she still followed Xiao Jun''s suggestion.


    As soon as they returned home, Xiao Jun settled her in a reclining chair in the yard, poured a cup of warm brown sugar water beside her, and brought a small nket to cover her, "Rest first? After I finish cleaning up, I''ll take a walk with you."


    Although it was an inquiring tone, it was an upromising attitude.


    Ding Sha had no choice but to obey and lie down, blowing the warm summer breeze, and rocking drowsily.


    Seeing that she had closed her eyes, Xiao Jun also lightened his footsteps. His hands and feet swiftly tidied up the somewhat dirty kitchen, then patrolled around and secretly made a mental note of what else needed to be added in terms of furniture.


    When everything was done, he looked back and saw Ding Sha''s forehead beaded with sweat, knowing that she was not sleeping well, so he sat down on the small stool next to her with a fan.


    Carefully and gently fanned her with the fan.


    As if he could never look enough at her tranquil and beautiful sleeping face.


    Ding Sha only felt that this was the most reassuring andfortable sleep she had since transmigrating into the book. She was not hot, and her body did not feel heavy either.


    When she woke up groggily, she saw Xiao Jun still sitting next to her, fanning her with the fan.


    "Xiao Jun?" Sleepiness had not yet dissipated, and Ding Sha''s words were a little hoarse.


    It was so cute that it made Xiao Jun''s heart fill with love.


    "I''m here." He said softly.


    "What time is it now? Why didn''t you wake me up?" Ding Sha rubbed her eyes coquettishly.


    The sunset nted to the west, and the horizon was dyed red by the sunset glow. One look and you could tell it was gettingte.


    "It''s almost seven, time for dinner," Xiao Jun said as he helped her sit up, his fingers running through her loose hair. "Hungry?"


    Ding Sha felt her stomach. She really was starting to feel a bit hungry.


    Xiao Jun touched her forehead and then her cheeks, making sure she didn''t have a fever before standing up. "Wait for me."


    Ding Sha watched his retreating figure nkly, feeling a little confused.


    Soon after, Xiao Jun returned with a small bowl.


    "Eat up," he said, crouching down and bringing the bowl up to Ding Sha.


    "What is this?" Ding Sha asked curiously, reaching out to take it but Xiao Jun dodged her grasp.


    "It''s hot," Xiao Jun told her. "I''ll hold it. You just eat slowly."


    Ding Sha lifted the lid and was hit with the salty aroma of boiled eggs mixed with soy sauce. The fragrance of sesame oil could also be detected, along with the red of tomato chunks sprinkled on top.


    It made her mouth water just looking at it.


    Ding Sha immediately felt a surge of appetite. She eagerly scooped up a spoonful and shoved it into her mouth.


    Hot and tasty.


    She opened her mouth to let out air, but couldn''t bear to spit the egg custard back out.


    Afraid she might burn her tongue, Xiao Jun brought his hand to her mouth. "Spit it out, spit it out..."


    Ding Sha stubbornly shook her head and swallowed it down after a few chews.


    Seeing her staring pitifully at him like a greedy little kitten, Xiao Jun couldn''t help butugh.


    "Is it too hot?"


    Ding Sha covered her mouth and nodded.


    "It''s so tasty, Xiao Jun."


    But she still scooped up another spoonful and stuffed it in her mouth, savoring it with relish.


    There wasn''t much in the bowl, and she soon finished it all. Xiao Jun washed the bowl and came back, crouching beside Ding Sha with a hesitant look.


    "Dear, let''s go to the hospital tomorrow for a prenatal checkup, alright?"

 Chapter 7: Chicken Soup with Fungus and cordyceps Flowers

    <h4>Chapter 7</h4>


    The next day, Ding Sha got up early. When passing by the construction site, she asked the gatekeeper to tell them that she would note to sell meals today. Xiao Jun rode an electric bike and drove Ding Sha into the city with a puttering sound.


    First they went to the bank to open an ount and deposit money. The ount holder was Ding Sha, and the password was also Ding Sha''s birthday.


    The bank teller looked at Ding Sha somewhat enviously, "You and your husband have such a good rtionship. You deposited more than 500,000 yuan under your name just like that."


    Ding Sha smiled shyly. Xiao Jun saw her get up and hurriedly held her arm.


    "You don''t have to be so careful. I''m only four months pregnant," Ding Sha was amused by his stance of being heavily guarded.


    "That won''t do," Xiao Jun refused to agree. In his opinion, no matter big or small, they were all his treasures, and there couldn''t be any idents.


    Ding Sha took him to the obstetrics and gynecology hospital she had previously gone to. She had set up a maternity file there, which would be more convenient for checks and examinations.


    The corridors were full of pairs of new parent couples, sitting happily side by side on the chairs in the hallway, heads touching as they whispered to each other.


    As soon as Ding Sha and Xiao Jun appeared, they attracted the attention of everyone present. Many pregnant women with bulging bellies thought enviously that with such good looks of the parents, the child born must be very beautiful...


    Thinking about their own silly-looking husbands beside them like pig heads, they rolled their eyes, secretly hoping that the child would not take after their father''s silliness...


    Xiao Jun helped Ding Sha sit down on the only seat avable, and squatted beside her, holding her hand, "Sit for a while, it''ll be our turn soon."


    Ding Sha stared at his caring look looking up at her, and felt a little emotional. Thest time she came here alone to hear the news of her pregnancy.


    Although she looked very calm, she was also afraid.


    A girl in the prime of her youth suddenly became a single mother with a child, how could she not be afraid...


    But today with Xiao Jun apanying her, it seemed that physically and mentally, she could breathe a little, and rely on him.


    Ding Sha unconsciously held Xiao Jun''s hand tighter. If...if she could get through the difficulties of childbirth...


    Would she be able to live well with Xiao Jun?


    Ding Sha didn''t dare think about it.


    Xiao Jun felt her grip tighten, "What''s wrong?"


    Ding Sha came back to her senses, shook her head, and forced a smile.


    Xiao Jun stood up and opened his arms for her to lean against his embrace, speaking gently, "Scared? Be good, don''t be afraid, I''m with you. If you''re afraid, call me, I''m here."


    Ding Sha didn''t speak, just buried her head in his arms.


    Xiao Jun gently patted her shoulders.


    "Number eighty-five, Ding Sha, are you here?"


    It was soon their turn. Xiao Jun gently led her into the room.


    It was still the same doctor asst time. She obviously also remembered Ding Sha, after all a beautiful young girling to the hospital alone for an examination left a deep impression.


    But fortunately someone apanied her this time.


    The female doctor nced at Xiao Jun who was adjusting the stool for Ding Sha, and was slightly more at ease.


    "You''re here? How have you been recently?" The doctor smiled and greeted her.


    "Pretty good. I''ve been taking the medicine you prescribed on time," Ding Sha had a good impression of this well-meaning doctor. "I came this time to do a routine prenatal checkup."


    The female doctor asked routinely for a while, then issued several forms, "Seventeen weeks, you can already do the Down screening test, as well as some routine checks that need to be done."


    She exined in detail the content and importance of each check.


    Xiao Jun listened even more carefully than Ding Sha.


    As a result, the female doctor''s liking for him grew even more. The two looked very young and immature. What was worrying was that they were still children who might make mistakes and couldn''t afford a new life.


    But now it seemed that both were sensible and serious about their lives.


    Xiao Jun first dashed to pay the fees, then asked the nurses clearly which departments were where beforeing back to take Ding Sha along.


    Holding his hand, Ding Sha was a little afraid, thinking back to thest time she came alone, she suddenly felt a little wronged, "If you let mee alone again this time..."


    Xiao Jun immediately saw his pretty, well-behaved wife with tears in her eyes, and hurriedly kissed her nose, "I was wrong, I was wrong, I shouldn''t have left you. Didn''t Ie back? I swear to you that I will never leave you again in this lifetime, okay?"


    Ding Sha cried while listening to his gentle and patient coaxing. When her emotions were in ce, she felt a little embarrassed. She wiped away her tears, "Let''s go...there will be more peopleter."


    Xiao Jun also indulged her, while chatting about future ns and guesses, while paying attention to his footsteps.


    After the checkups, they returned to the female doctor''s office. The test results came out faster than expected. The female doctor looked at them for a long time with some gravity.


    Xiao Jun was also nervous, "How is it, doctor?"


    "Judging from the test reports, your wife has symptoms of anemia. And I personally suggest that you should also find a good traditional Chinese medicine doctor to take a look at your wife." The female doctor put down the report.


    "There are those who study traditional Chinese medicine in my family, so I also understand some. Your wife doesn''t seem to be very good in all aspects. If you can, I suggest you go take a look."


    "And she has already shown signs of threatened miscarriage."


    Xiao Jun was shocked, "We have the means! We''ll go see now! Do you have any rmended doctors?"


    "Just go to the Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital," the female doctor waved her hand. "She also said she asionally has bleeding symptoms and lower abdominal pain. I suggest giving her a shot to protect the fetus first, and taking progesterone orally. Wait for her condition to improve before you take her there."


    Xiao Jun didn''t say anything more and went straight to get her hospitalized.


    Ding Sha didn''t object.


    The child had been in her belly for more than a month, and she was used to being in pain and vomiting every day.


    She really hoped the child would be okay.


    By the time they were actually hospitalized, it was almost past noon. After asking the female doctor about dietary restrictions, Xiao Jun bought a meal at the hospital canteen. Ding Sha took two bites.


    Tasteless.


    Seeing herck of interest, Xiao Jun felt a little distressed.


    After Ding Sha fell asleep after getting the shot, Xiao Jun took the opportunity to go to the farmer''s market and herbal medicine store, and borrowed the stove directly at a small inn next to the hospital.


    Stewing slowly for an afternoon, high quality Cordyceps flowers stewed with freshly ughtered old hen, grabbing a handful of mushrooms and throwing them in to stew together.


    Bubbling away, the sandpot lid couldn''t contain the rich aroma of the chicken soup, and many guests came to ask the boss what smelled so good.


    The boss patiently exined over and over that someone was borrowing the kitchen to stew soup.


    When Xiao Jun carried out the sandpot, he saw a group of people with greedy looks waiting in the lobby staring over.


    Xiao Jun didn''t care about them at all. He directly brought the sandpot in front of Ding Sha,pletely ignoring the other patients in the ward.


    Ding Sha drank the soup feeling very satisfied but also a little embarrassed.


    The chicken was soft and vorful, the mushrooms fresh and sweet, and there was also the nourishing effect of the Cordyceps flowers. Drinking it was not greasy at all.


    Xiao Jun had learned to cook soup for Ding Sha.


    She loved drinking soups and waters, but was too skinny. So Xiao Jun went to learn how to cook soup in order to fatten her up a bit.


    After the two of them had eaten their fill, Xiao Jun brought up the idea he had been brewing all afternoon.


    "Sha Sha, shall we move to live in the city?"

 Chapter 8: Fried Chicken with Garlic

    <h4>Chapter 8</h4>


    "The medical conditions are better in the city, and everything else like food, housing, transport is also more convenient," Xiao Jun stroked her icy cold hand.


    "We have money now, we can rent a small house. If you want to run a snack shop, I''ll go get a business license. After you''re discharged from the hospital, we can go look for a storefront. How about that?"


    Ding Sha moved her fingers. She was very attracted to Xiao Jun''s proposal.


    Although life in the vige was good too, moving to a city she was familiar with would mean a much better living environment. It would also be very close for her toe to the hospital for prenatal checkups.


    Moreover, consumption levels and demand were higher in cities than rural viges. If they could open a small store, who knows, they might even be able to save up some money.


    She counted with her fingers and thought it through seriously. Xiao Jun just stood by her side quietly watching her, feeling very happy.


    After thinking it over for a long time, Ding Sha nodded in agreement. She thought of something and said, "Jun, could you help me go sell lunch boxes tomorrow?"


    She felt a little embarrassed, "I was thinking I should formally tell the brothers at the construction site. After all, they''ve always been very supportive of my business."


    Xiao Jun had no objections. Although he didn''t like others always doting on his wife, he was still someone who remembered favors.


    The hospital didn''t allow people to stay overnight. Xiao Jun reluctantly rode his electric bike back to the vige.


    It was almost dark, smoke rising everywhere.


    Xiao Jun''s eyes were sharp. From afar, he saw a shadowy figure sneaking around his house door. He silently parked his bike to the side, then like a cat, walked over soundlessly but with big strides. He grabbed the person from behind by his cor, "Who are you? What are you doing here?"


    Wang Kun had been brewing a n to teach Ding Sha a lesson these past few days. He snuck over when it was dark, but found the doors tightly shut when people were usually home.


    Just as he felt strange and was peering through the door gap wanting to take a look, he was scared out of his wits by the person behind him.


    Turning around, he saw a fierce face with eyes that looked murderous. Wang Kun shuddered, "I...I''m not doing anything..."


    Xiao Jun nced at the door, "What rotten scheme are you brewing? Tell the truth and you might get beaten less."


    Wang Kun was afraid of pain. His eyes darted around cunningly, and his expression became fawning and ingratiating, "Brother, I don''t recognize you. Is this your first time in our vige?"


    Xiao Jun didn''t know what tricks he was ying. He hmm-ed and kept a firm grip on his cor.


    After being dragged a couple of steps, Wang Kun panicked, "Brother! Let''s talk this through!"


    "Talk through your ass!" Xiao Jun crudely dragged him into the woods and pushed him against a tree.


    Without another word, he swung his fists,rge as sandbags, and started punching. His hands were big and powerful, beating Wang Kun until he wailed and dodged continuously.


    Only when Wang Kun''s face was bruised and swollen did Xiao Jun feel slightly better. But thinking of the filthy words from his mouth, he still felt restless.


    Wang Kun''s face was smeared with snot, tears and blood. Hey on the ground crying and wailing. Xiao Jun kicked him, "Shut up."


    Wang Kun shuddered in fear and sobbed softly.


    Xiao Jun lowered his head, "Do you know who I am?"


    Wang Kun shook his head vigorously like a rattle drum.


    Xiao Jun felt an itch in his throat wanting to smoke, but held back for Ding Sha''s sake. "I''m the one who lives in the house you were peeping at. The one you were spewing filth about is my wife."


    Wang Kun was so frightened he forgot to cry.


    "If I ever hear that dog mouth of yours spout anything indecent again... it won''t be just a beating." He gritted his teeth and lowered his voice ominously, sending chills down Wang Kun''s spine.


    Wang Kun nodded repeatedly, "I won''t say it again! Never again!!!"


    Xiao Jun snorted coldly and left him there. He pushed his electric bike back to the yard.


    He tidied up the ingredients at home and took out what he needed for tomorrow. Then he started looking on his phone for suitable storefronts to rent.


    At the construction site entrance, a group of burly men stood expectantly, eyes peering down the road. It was past the usual dinner time, but that beautiful figure still hadn''t appeared.


    A thin man sighed, "Noting again today either? Where has our lunchbox fairy gone? I''m so used to her lunchboxes that I can''t swallow anything else!"


    Da Zhuang was also droopy. He said dispiritedly, "Who knows... I didn''t eat much yesterday either, just waiting to order two lunchboxes..."


    "Here hees! Here hees!" There was a suddenmotion in the crowd. Looking up, it was indeed the figure of Ding Sha''s boyfriend riding an electric bike over.


    Up close, they saw it wasn''t the beauty herself.


    Although a little disappointed not to see the beauty, the thought of delicious food to fill their souls still made everyone pretty happy as they lined up.


    Xiao Jun opened the box, "Scan the code to pay, fifteen yuan per box."


    After getting his lunchbox, Da Zhuang couldn''t wait to open it. Today''s dishes were packed extra full, still the usual two meat and one veggie dishes.


    The braised potato and long beans with fatty pork was unrestrained. The potatoes were soft and vored, the long beans also soft and juicy. Therge chunks of pork belly were plump and fat, effortlessly pierced by chopsticks. One bite brought immense satisfaction, making one feel like they ascended to heaven.


    The garlic stir-fried chicken was one he''d never seen before. The aroma was pungent garlic.


    The chicken was cut into small pieces and nched, then directly thrown into the wok with ginger, scallion and garlic. Once the skin was fried golden, arge box of crushed garlic was added and fried until the garlic turned golden brown and released its fragrance. Then a bit of water was added, followed by a sauce made of oyster sauce, soy sauce, salt, sugar and pepper to adjust the vor. It was cooked over low heat until the sauce thickened.


    One bite brought the vors of garlic and chicken perfectly blended, without any garlic stench or meat odors. It made one just want another bite after the first.


    Thest dish was spicy potato shreds. The bright red dried chilies were eye-catching, and the sourness stimted the appetite.


    Da Zhuang wolfed down a huge mouthful of rice before feeling satisfied.


    He looked at the silent Xiao Jun beside him, intentionally striking up a conversation, "Boss, what have you been busy with recently? When you guys don''te for a day, so many of us go hungry."


    Xiao Jun''s expression softened a little hearing Ding Sha mention this man before. "I went with Sha Sha for a prenatal checkup."


    Da Zhuang''s hands paused subconsciously and he nced around at the other people eating beside him, seeming to hear the sound of more breaking hearts.


    But still, Da Zhuang congratted him with a smile, "Wonderful news! My congrattions to you two!"


    Xiao Jun thanked him and thought for a moment, "We won''t being here to sell lunchboxes anymore."


    Da Zhuang almost jumped off his stool, "Why?!!"


    "Sha Sha is pregnant. We''re preparing to move to the city for her convenience going out," Xiao Jun exined. "We''re nning to open a small store in the city. You cane eat at our store if you have the chance."


    Da Zhuang sadly shoveled down two more mouthfuls of rice. He suddenly seemed to recall something. He took out his phone, "Boss, let''s add each other on WeChat. We can keep in touch that way in the future, yeah?"


    Xiao Jun agreed.


    After adding Xiao Jun''s WeChat, he prepared to head back since he still had a real estate agent meeting in the afternoon to see houses. He was short on time.


    Not long after returning home, he heard a knock on the door. Opening it, he saw a kindly and sturdy old woman.


    Zhang Granny had dug up some Jerusalem artichokes from her vegetable garden, thinking of bringing them over for Ding Sha. But when she knocked, a young man came out instead.


    Zhang Granny was surprised seeing the young man. She blurted out nervously,


    "Are you that scumbag who got little Sha pregnant?"

 Chapter 9: Tofu crucian Carp Soup

    <h4>Chapter 9</h4>


    Zhang Granny sat in the yard of Xiao Jun''s house, rubbing her hands awkwardly, "Uh...sorry Xiao Xiao, I misunderstood you..."


    After listening to Xiao Jun''s exnation, Zhang Granny''s face rarely turned red. She made such a mess at her age and was a little embarrassed.


    Xiao Jun had heard Ding Sha mention Zhang Granny''s care for her. He brought her a cup of sugar water, "It''s nothing. Thank you Granny for taking care of Sha Sha."


    Xiao Jun was always quiet and didn''t want to say more than a word to anyone other than Ding Sha.


    Zhang Granny waved her hand, "There''s no need to thank me. How could I just stand by and watch the little girl suffer on her own? We''re neighbors, so helping a bit is nothing."


    As she spoke, she stood up, "I gave you the honewort, so I''ll head back now. I still have to cook for Sha Sha."


    Xiao Jun saw her back home, then immediately rode his electric bike out again.


    After a whole night and morning without seeing Ding Sha, he missed her a little.


    Ding Sha had just been stared at by a little nurse to take her medicine and get an injection when Xiao Jun came in hurriedly.


    "Ah Jun?" Ding Sha was a little surprised. She thought she wouldn''t see him until night.


    Xiao Jun bent down and hugged her before sitting down gently, "Have you eaten?"


    Ding Sha shook her head, "Not hungry yet."


    Xiao Jun stroked her head, "Then I''ll go get food and we can eat together?"


    "Okay." Ding Sha nodded obediently.


    Although she wasn''t hungry, she felt a sense of joy just seeing Xiao Jun, and it seemed she felt hungry too.


    Xiao Jun came back very quickly. The two ate at a small table. Ding Sha didn''t have a big appetite, so Xiao Jun finished her leftovers as usual.


    When he really had to leave, Xiao Jun said reluctantly, "I''m going to check out the storefront. Call me if anythinges up."


    Ding Sha rubbed her belly and obediently agreed.


    Only then did Xiao Jun leave somewhat reluctantly.


    In the afternoon, he looked at three storefronts, but he still favored the one near the college town.


    There was a lot of foot traffic, and it was also close to the hospital.


    The store had a small courtyard in the back, and the upstairs could be lived in, which was very suitable for their situation, though the rent was a bit expensive.


    But after thinking about the money he earned selling lunch boxes today and the savings in the bank, Xiao Jun decisively decided to make this ce his first choice.


    But he still had to wait for Ding Sha to see it. If she liked it too, they would settle on it.


    After agreeing with the agent, Xiao Jun rushed to the vegetable market. The afternoon vegetable market wasn''t very lively, but he still found a good fish shop.


    He bought two carp about the length of a palm. Xiao Jun carried the tofu and went to the small inn to borrow the kitchen again.


    Seeing it was him, the boss readily agreed.


    The aroma from his cookingst time attracted many customers to order meals, and the turnover that day was much higher than usual.


    Xiao Jun didn''t know the boss''s ulterior motives. He took out his small sandpot from the basket of his electric bike and entered the kitchen.


    The fish had been killed already. He washed the fish again in the kitchen and wiped it dry. He pan-fried it over low heat until the skin was golden and the fish didn''t fall apart before transferring it to the preheated sandpot.


    He poured in boiling water, added scallion knots and ginger slices, and just a little salt was enough to make it deliciously fresh. No other seasonings were needed.


    Zhou Yu smelled the aroma from the doorway and walked in, "Dad! What''s the kitchen cooking? It smells so good! I want some too!"


    Boss Zhou was happily taking meal orders from customers that had suddenly increased. Hearing this, he didn''t even lift his head, "A little brother is borrowing the kitchen to cook. I don''t know what he''s making either."


    He took a big sniff and said, "Smells great, but when he came he was carrying fish and tofu, so I guess he''s probably stewing fish soup."


    Zhou Yu almost drooled. She couldn''t help but walk into the kitchen, where she saw someone wholeheartedly concentrating on cooking soup.


    Feeling someone staring at him, Xiao Jun looked back and saw it was a strange woman. He frowned and ignored her.


    At first Zhou Yu was drooling over the fish, butter she was drooling over this man.


    Based on her countless experiences ogling celebrities, this man was definitely top-notch. Not to mention his figure, just his face alone could instantly cause screams.


    Blushing, Zhou Yu leaned over, "Handsome? What are you making? It smells so good! Can I have some? I can pay!"


    Xiao Jun didn''t even nce at her as he coldly said, "No sharing."


    "Why not? You can''t finish it all by yourself anyway..." Zhou Yu persistently continued asking.


    Xiao Jun ignored her and put the tofu, cut into small pieces, into the sandpot. When he opened the lid for an instant, Zhou Yu inhaled blissfully.


    Heavens, what heavenly aroma was this!


    Looking at the man in front of her, Zhou Yu was even more smitten.


    Based on her numerous experiences chasing stars, this man was definitely a premium stock! Handsome, a good cook, if she didn''t make a move now, when would she?


    Thinking this, Zhou Yu spoke again, "Little brother, I''m drooling over the food you''re making! Can you give me a little, just a bit~?"


    Boss Zhou, who couldn''t resist taking a peek, heard his daughter''s voice and paled in shock. He rushed into the kitchen and awkwardly pulled Zhou Yu away.


    "Dad! What are you doing?" Zhou Yu struggled free unhappily.


    Boss Zhou pulled her to the counter, "Stay here and help me watch the counter properly. That little brother is stewing soup for his pregnant wife. What are you interfering for?"


    Zhou Yu was stunned, "He''s married?"


    Boss Zhou neither confirmed nor denied it, "Watch the counter."


    Zhou Yu pouted, but she wasn''t very happy inside.


    She also didn''t know which woman had gotten there first...


    The woman who had gotten there first, Ding Sha, was bored waiting for Xiao Jun. She held her phone, hesitating whether to call him or not.


    Xiao Jun happened to walk in at that moment, putting the sandpot in front of Ding Sha, "I''m back Sha Sha, drink the soup quickly."


    As Ding Sha drank the soup, Xiao Jun showed her the photos he took of the storefronts that afternoon.


    Ding Sha liked the small courtyard near the college town at first nce.


    Xiao Jun happily messaged the agent that they wanted to rent it.


    The milky white fish soup could peel off eyebrows. Ding Sha drank two big bowls before stopping, and the rest still went into Xiao Jun''s stomach.


    Although Xiao Jun didn''t care at all, Ding Sha would still secretly blush every time she saw him eating from her bowl.


    It felt so intimate...


    By the time Ding Sha was discharged from the hospital, Xiao Jun had almost finished decorating the storefront.


    He had moved in the reclining chair and bed he custom-made for Ding Sha, and simply renovated the store a bit. Fortunately the previous tenant had decent taste in decor, so they didn''t have to change too much.


    Xiao Jun had also arranged the living area upstairs and the courtyard well.


    Ding Sha was very satisfied after taking a tour.


    It felt sofortable to have someone understand your preferences without having to say it out loud.


    But the young couple disagreed on the store name and what to sell.


    Xiao Jun wanted her to simply open a small supermarket. She could just sit at the counter collecting money every day.


    But Ding Sha still wanted to run a small restaurant business. She was very confident in her cooking skills, and she also enjoyed cooking and researching dishes.


    In the end, Xiao Jun couldn''t resist Ding Sha''s insistence and agreed to her request to open a small restaurant.


    The store name would be - Ding Sha''s Small Restaurant.

 Chapter 10: Braised Mutton

    <h4>Chapter 10</h4>


    On the first day of moving, Xiao Jun bought two jin ofmb meat from the market and brought it back.


    Ding Sha had been eating in food these past few days. She was craving spicy food and would talk in her sleep at night.


    So Xiao Jun agreed to makemb for her to eat.


    With two jin of meat, one jin would be braised in sauce and the other jin would be used to makemb hot pot, so they could also drink the soup - killing two birds with one stone.


    He soaked and washed themb with warm water until it was clean. Ding Sha couldn''t stand the smell now and would always dry heave, so Xiao Jun washed it several more times.


    He cut potatoes and carrots into pieces to the side to useter. He also sliced half an onion while he was at it.


    He nched themb in cold water with scallion, ginger, peppercorn, cooking wine to get rid of the gamey taste, then directly fished it out into a wok that had been fried with sliced scallions and garlic. The oil spewed everywhere with a crackling sound when themb met with the hot oil.


    The aroma of themb and hot oil also spewed everywhere.


    He added broad bean paste, hot pot soup base and some spices, stirred for a bit, then seasoned with soy sauce.


    At this time, the little kitchen was already filled with this overpowering aroma. Ding Sha who was sitting in a recliner in the yard was getting a little restless.


    Xiao Jun only poured a bowl of hot water, then opened a can of beer and poured it in. He boiled it vigorously over high heat, then transferred it to a sandpot to continue stewing over low-medium heat.


    He went out and saw Ding Sha looking longingly over here, and couldn''t helpughing a little.


    There was still some lingering summer heat in thete summer weather. Xiao Jun took off his shirt, revealing his lean waist. Although lean, he still had muscles.


    Especially the six pack abs on his stomach, and the obvious Adonis belt that extended into his pants, leaving much to the imagination.


    Ding Sha stared nkly at him, dazed for quite a while before she could snap out of it.


    The one who had intimate experiences with Xiao Jun was the previous Ding Sha. She hadn''t seen such an impactful scene before, and suddenly became red faced.


    Xiao Jun naturally noticed. The corner of his mouth hooked up in a wicked grin, and he deliberately walked up to Ding Sha bare-chested.


    Ding Sha''s eyes were still glued to his abs as he approached, unable to look away. Xiao Jun deliberately lowered his voice to coax her, "Come here Sha Sha, stretch out your hand..."


    "Want to feel them?"


    "The texture is really good..."


    Hearing his voice, Ding Sha was led by him as if possessed to ce her hand on his abs.


    The firm, warm sensation felt a little strange but also made her unable to bear letting go. Until she subconsciously felt them two more times before realizing what she was doing.


    Ding Sha quickly retracted her hand as if electrocuted, and somewhat ufortably stood up, "I should go take my folic acid..."


    Then hurriedly fled.


    Xiao Jun watched her hurried back and red ears, and couldn''t helpughing out loud as he stood in ce.


    At lunch, Ding Sha kept her head lowered and ate. After Xiao Jun put two pieces of potato in for her, he saw that she still didn''t lift her head, and became a little worried.


    Looks like I teased too much...


    What to do?


    After seriously pondering for a bit, Xiao Jun deliberately brought up a topic, "The renovations are almost done. I''ll go to the Administration for Industry and Commerce tomorrow. While waiting for the business license, why don''t you think about what would sell well?"


    Hearing him bring up proper matters, Ding Sha finally breathed a sigh of relief. She also lifted her head, "I''ve thought about it. Since it''s called a snack bar, why not start with snacks?


    "We''re near a college town, with many students nearby, and some middle school students have to walk past our shop entrance. I was thinking, why not sell buns."


    "Cook a pot of tea eggs, make buns with meat and veggie fillings, then also cook a pot of porridge, put some side dishes on the table for self service."


    "That way it won''t be too tiring but there will still be business. There can also be stir fries for those with special needs during lunch and dinner. What do you think?"


    After Ding Sha finished speaking, she looked at Xiao Jun somewhat nervously.


    Xiao Jun took a bite ofmb, "Sounds good."


    Only then did Ding Sha happily continue eating.


    Themb was soft, vored, and bright red. Eating it was hot and aromatic, warming from the throat to the stomach.


    Even the potatoes and carrots were infused with the soup and meat vors. Ding Sha ate with great relish.


    In the end, she ate two whole bowls of rice before stopping.


    Xiao Jun had a big appetite, and directly poured the remaining rice into the soup, slurping it loudly.


    Seeing him eat with such relish, Ding Sha felt the urge to eat more, but her stomach really couldn''t fit any more. She was also afraid to eat too much for the baby''s sake, so she could only hold a cup of ginger rice tea and watch Xiao Jun eat.


    Finally all the food was swept clean. Xiao Jun sat back satisfied in his chair looking up at the sky.


    Life wasfortable and fulfilling. Such happiness made him unable to resist looking at Ding Sha, afraid this was just a dream.


    While Ding Sha was taking an afternoon nap, Xiao Jun ran to buy cage oil fryers, and also talked to the vegetable seller about delivery arrangements under Ding Sha''s instructions.


    Finally, right when the Administration for Industry and Commerce opened, he went to apply for a business license.


    When he got home, Ding Sha was sleeping soundly. Xiao Jun looked at her sleeping face and couldn''t resist lowering his head to kiss her nose and forehead. He also squeezed her fingers and stroked her hair, finally leaving a kiss at the corner of her lips.


    Ding Sha was sleeping hazily and only felt itchy. She reached out to scratch. Xiao Jun took off his shoes and climbed into bed, carefully hugging Ding Sha, and fell asleep with their heads touching.


    The two slept until it was almost dark before getting up. They simply ate a little dinner, locked the door, and Xiao Jun randomly picked a university to take Ding Sha for a stroll.


    There weren''t many people on therge sports field. Most were walkingps around the field, with a small portion ying ser.


    The atmosphere wasfortable and rxed, making people unconsciously slow their pace.


    The broadcast was even ying music, full of vitality and freedom.


    Thanks to their good looks, everyone who walked past would look back at them, eximing in wonder.


    If it was just one person doing this, Ding Sha could still feel happy about it.


    But if everyone did it, Ding Sha was left only feeling embarrassed.


    Xiao Jun was staring nkly at the studentsing and going on the road, lost in thought.


    Ding Sha shook his hand a few times but he didn''t react.


    Does he want to go to college?


    Ding Sha wondered uncertainly. But without her previous memories, she also didn''t know Xiao Jun''s thoughts very well.


    Xiao Jun looked back to see Ding Sha staring nkly at him, and smiled as he pinched her cheek, "What''s wrong? Tired? Should we go back then?"


    Ding Sha shook her head, "Not tired."


    "Then why are you staring nkly at me?" Xiao Jun teased her, "Too in love with your husband?"


    His words made Ding Sha a little ufortable, but she still drew near and asked softly, "Do you...want to go to college?"


    Xiao Jun was stunned for a moment, his expression sobering. He led Ding Sha to a nearby bench to sit down, "I''ve never thought about going to college."


    "You know, ever since I was eight years old when my mom ran off with another man, I never went back to school again, muddling along til now, and I''ve been fine."


    "Grannie in the vige said my mom was a college student, forced to marry my dad for the wedding gifts. So I don''t resent her for leaving when I was eight."


    "I''m just curious what college students are like."


    As Ding Sha listened to him, a memory about Xiao Jun suddenly surfaced in her mind.


    Xiao Jun was a child from the vige next door, a posthumous child. When he was eight, his mom said she was going out to work with another man and never came back.


    Little Xiao Jun grew up eating here and picking up scraps there. When even eating was an issue, going to school was out of the question.


    He wasn''t curious about college students, but about what his mom was like right?


    Ding Sha felt a little heartache for him. She held Xiao Jun''s arm and leaned on his shoulder. Xiao Jun stroked her hair and said earnestly, "Don''t worry Ding Sha, I won''t leave you alone. Our child won''t grow up like I did either."


    "I will let him grow up happy."


    But deep down, he was still unhappy and resentful after all.


    After sitting for a while, the two got up to head back. They had just stood up and walked two steps when they were sternly blocked by a middle aged man with graying sideburns walking rapidly towards them.


    The middle aged man looked them up and down, still young and tender faces. After a long pause, he coldly snorted and said ruefully.


    "Which department are you students from?"


    "How can you get pregnant while still in school?! Suchck of self-respect!"

 Chapter 11: Steamed bun with Pork and Cabbage

    <h4>Chapter 11</h4>


    Professor Ding was rather old-fashioned. Even after hearing Ding Sha''s exnation, he still had a stern look on his face, muttering, "Half-grown kids ought to be studying..."


    Professor Ding walked farther and farther away with his hands behind his back, facing the evening glow. Ding Sha watched his receding figure. Although scolded, she knew it was out of goodwill.


    The wooden signboard made to order at Uncle Wei''s shop soon arrived. Xiao Jun borrowed adder from the neighboring store and put it up himself, while Ding Sha stood on the street to direct him.


    Raise it a bit, lower it a bit.


    Xiao Jun nced at the slope below her feet but said nothing, quietly listening to her directions.


    When the signboard was finally hung properly, Xiao Jun was tidying up. Ding Sha''s eyes fell on the orange vendor''s tricycle across the street.


    She looked at the oranges, then looked at Xiao Jun. Suddenly sheughed and said, "Stay right there and don''t move. I''ll go buy you a few catties of oranges."


    After saying that, she walked away,ughing merrily.


    Xiao Jun, who had little schooling, didn''t understand the joke. He watched Ding Sha''s gleefully retreating back with puzzlement written all over his face.


    A passingd patted his shoulder familiarly and said, "Hey buddy, your wife is pulling your leg!"


    He told Xiao Jun the story behind the joke, "She''s pretending to be your dad, hahaha!"


    The boy teased him good-naturedly.


    Xiao Jun was stunned for a moment, then his eyes softened withughter.


    When Ding Sha returned with the oranges, she saw Xiao Jun looking at her with a half-smile.


    Ding Sha felt a little guilty. She figured Xiao Jun didn''t know the joke, so she pretended nothing had happened and pushed him back inside, "Let''s go, let''s go eat oranges! I tried one just now. It''s so sweet!"


    Xiao Jun let her push him along, taking care to steady her as they descended the stairs. Once they reached the small yard behind, he finally turned to gently pinch her chin.


    "Sha Sha wants to be my dad?"


    Ding Sha nearly choked on her own saliva.


    "You... You know about it. I... I was just joking..." Ding Sha''s eyes darted around, somewhat embarrassed and guilty.


    "I don''t mind," Xiao Jun said with a strong grip, hugging her up like she weighed nothing. "You can be anything to me, as long as you stay by my side."


    Ding Sha was touched by his words. Sitting in the crook of Xiao Jun''s arm, she stroked his slightly chubbier cheeks ofte, "I won''t leave."


    At least I won''t abandon you.


    Ding Sha thought to herself.


    "I bought some wood from Uncle Wei to build you a swing in the yard, how about that?" Xiao Jun held her as he came to a tree, "Right here."


    "Make it like a rattan chair with a backrest, okay?"


    Ding Sha''s eyes lit up, "Really?"


    "Then I''ll start making it tomorrow." Xiao Jun knew it meant she liked the idea.


    Xiao Jun carried her to the wall nearby, "Let''s nt flowers here, all kinds of them to fill this patch. It''ll look amazing when they bloom."


    "Let''s nt grapes here? Set up rows of trellises, it''ll be a little pavilion once the vines grow up."


    "We''ll use half this plot to grow veggies you like - tomatoes, bok choy, some peas too. When they''re in season I''ll pinch off the tenderest pea shoots to cook sour noodle soup for you, how''s that?"


    Xiao Jun walked her through every corner of the small yard, patiently and thoughtfully telling her theyout and ns for each inch. Ding Sha couldn''t help but start imagining their future life following Xiao Jun''s descriptions.


    Perhaps when the baby is older, he might fall asleep on the swing craving the breeze?


    Perhaps when the baby first learns to walk, he might also roll in the mud yfully?


    She wondered which of them would be the stern parent and which the doting one.


    Ding Sha couldn''t help envisioning these heartwarming details.


    Knowing she liked the ideas, Xiao Jun smiled and put her down in a recliner while he sat beside her to peel oranges.


    Peeling too many inevitably stained the tips of his fingers yellow, which Ding Sha didn''t like.


    The small shop opened for business quietly one ordinary morning.


    The young boss opened the tightly shut front door. He carried out some tables and ced them at the entrance, then tworge steaming baskets followed.


    A small burning stove was on the ground with a cooking pot on it, the savory aroma seeping out from under the lid, whetting the appetite even at this early hour when hunger had yet to stir.


    The basket lids were flipped open just a crack, revealing plump white buns steaming inside. Some were the size of an adult''s palm. Even the aroma seemed to convey the vor of the fillings within.


    On the other side, a big pot was bubbling away with the rich fragrance of pork and preserved egg congee, simmered until thick and soft.


    The pretty bossdy sat behind the baskets, smiling at passersby as if asking if they''d like some breakfast.


    Wang Dong was a middle school student who normally ate at home. Buttely, for some reason his parents quarreled every day and he couldn''t even get breakfast at home.


    His mother gave him money to fend for himself. Wang Dong looked hesitantly at the various breakfast ces, wondering what to do.


    Or maybe he should just buy a loaf of bread at the school store to get by.


    Thinking this, he walked along until a concentrated fragrance grabbed hold of all his senses.


    His stomach, which just imed not to be hungry, practically roared to life instantly, growling with a demanding pang of hunger.


    Looking up, Wang Dong saw that shop. Was it newly opened? He''d never seen it before...


    Still filled with questions, he nevertheless went over.


    Seeing the neatly dressed schoolboy approach, Ding Sha stood up right away, "What would you like, little friend?"


    "It''s our first day open, we only have buns, tea eggs and pork congee for now."


    Only then did Wang Dong notice the gentle, fairy-like beautiful bossdy. Recovering from his initial daze, he asked, "Sis, what fillings do the buns have?"


    "Two kinds - pork and cabbage, and chive egg. There''s also congee and tea eggs, all two yuan each."


    She opened the lid to show Wang Dong the buns. Wang Dong hesitated briefly before requesting, "Sis, I''d like two pork, one veggie, a tea egg and a bowl of congee."


    "Coming right up, have a seat first and I''ll bring them over." Ding Sha took his money and immediately called Xiao Jun todle congee.


    She put three buns in a stic bag, picking out a particrlyrge egg, just as Xiao Jun returned with a bowl of congee.


    Ding Sha handed everything to Wang Dong, "If you''re not rushed, you can sit at this little table to eat."


    Wang Dong indeed wasn''t in a hurry. He sat on the small stool and took the first bite of bun. His eyes instantly widened.


    The bun had soup inside!


    Though it was hot, he couldn''t help sucking up a mouthful of the broth on instinct. The rich, savory vor with the taste of oil... Wang Dong impatiently took another huge bite of the bun.


    It was so delicious!


    He swiftly polished off two pork buns, then bit into the veggie bun with anticipation.


    Just as good as the pork!


    Salty and fragrant, wrapped around plenty of golden scrambled egg, extremely satisfying to eat.


    Wang Dong''s eating speed subconsciously sped up. Whether it was the tea egg or congee, everything was superb.


    In the end, he rubbed his bulging stomach somewhat ruefully - this was the first time he had overeaten in the morning...


    Ding Sha brought him a breath mint and napkin, "How was it, little friend? Tasty enough?"


    "Delicious!" Wang Dong said excitedly. "Sis, do you sell lunch too? If so I''lle back again for lunch!"


    Ding Sha was surprised she hadn''t prepared to offer lunch this first day.


    But she still smiled and said, "Of course we do, juste byter!"

 Chapter 12: Sweet and Salty Bean Flower

    <h4>Chapter 12</h4>


    A Fairy Restaurant opened next to University Town!


    The boss and bossdy looked like they were fairies!


    The food at their restaurant tasted heavenly!


    The news quickly spread to the ears of the middle schoolers. They loveding here in the mornings to eat a few buns and drink a bowl of porridge, listening to the bossdy''s gentle greetings.


    Sometimes the boss would frown, but when he saw the pregnant bossdy, the storm clouds on his face would part.


    Wang Dong came to eat breakfast as usual today, and suddenly noticed the decor of the little shop had changed.


    On the floor was an iron bucket as tall as a grown man''s waist. Next to the table were tworge pots.


    Curious, he asked Ding Sha, "Sister Sha Sha, what''s this? A new item?"


    Ding Sha lifted the lid to show him the white, hot, tender douhua that would break with the slightest poke.


    The bursting aroma of beans made people revert to their most primal desires.


    And that was to eat.


    This was actually a clever idea Ding Sha hade up with.


    Seeing the two pots, Wang Dong suddenly had a strange premonition. "Sister Sha Sha, you wouldn''t..."


    "Ding ding!" Ding Sha lifted the lids off the two big pots.


    Sure enough, one pot contained sticky, sweet red sugar water, while the other had a salty broth made from yellow flowering cabbage, wood ear mushroom, and egg.


    The alternating sweet and salty scents were irresistible.


    Wang Dong stared open-mouthed at the two pots. After a long pause, he wailed, "Sister Sha Sha! How could you!!"


    Ding Shaughed heartily. "Which vor do you want?"


    Wang Dong agonized over it for a long time. "Give me a bowl of the salty one!"


    In fact, ever since he was little, he had only eaten sweet douhua, always looking down on the salty kind with disdain.


    But this time was different. He had a strange trust in this little shop''s cooking skills.


    After staring at the douhua for a bit, Wang Dong had a solemn and deste expression as he resolutely picked up a spoon and scooped a small bite into his mouth.


    He chewed with a grave look on his face.


    Huh?


    It was delicious!


    Wang Dong couldn''t help scooping up a few more spoonfuls. The broth was salty and smooth, the douhua tender and aromatic.


    Wang Dong confirmed that salty douhua was not bad at all!


    In fact, it was extremely tasty!


    He contentedly ate a steamed bun with the salty douhua, and many passersby who were curious about Ding Sha''s entric idea also stopped to take a look.


    After all, you had to try it yourself before you could righteously argue about it!


    Two young girls chose the two different vors. After eating their fill satisfyingly, they started to bicker.


    "Sweet douhua is the best! It''s too delicious!"


    "Pah! Salty douhua is the most fragrant! Don''t you have any taste?"


    "You''re the one without taste! You don''t even know how to appreciate the beauty of sweet douhua!"


    Ding Sha smiled as she carried over two bowls of douhua.


    "Why not try the vor you each like first?" She set down the bowls. "Only after tasting what the other person likes can you understand how they feel, right?"


    The girls froze for a moment, blinking their eyes, but quieted down.


    They took small sips from each other''s bowls of douhua, eyes lighting up in surprise. "It''s...not as bad as I imagined..."


    The other girl clearly felt the same. After drinking two more mouthfuls, she bashfully apologized, "Sorry Xiaoxiao, I shouldn''t have said you don''t have any taste..."


    "I was wrong too..."


    The two girls held hands as they happily went off to school after paying.


    Wang Dong beside them couldn''t help but stare wide-eyed.


    A thought struck him. If only his parents could understand each other like this too...


    Xiao Jun walked over from the back yard, pouring arge basin of freshly cooked salty broth into the pot. "Hungry?"


    Ding Sha shook her head. "Not hungry at all."


    Lately Ding Sha had entered a period of crazy morning sickness. She threw up anything she ate, and even if she didn''t eat she still threw up.


    In just a few days, all the weight she had previously gained was lost.


    Seeing this, Xiao Jun felt heartache. He was always trying new ways to make delicious food to nourish her.


    The breakfast crowd slowly dispersed. Ding Sha sat on a recliner ying on her phone.


    Suddenly she saw a video that made her start drooling from craving.


    "What''s up?" Xiao Jun walked over carrying arge bunch of flower seedlings.


    "Can you make this?" Ding Sha hurriedly showed him her phone.


    Xiao Jun put down the seedlings and wiped his hands with a towel before bending over to look. "You want to eat it? Spicy pickled tomatoes?"


    "I want it!"

 Chapter 13: Stewed Eggs with Milk

    <h4>Chapter 13</h4>


    After thest morning Marxist philosophy ss, Zhou Yu was packing up her bag when her roommate Du Rourou stopped her.


    "Little Yu, are you going home for dinner today?" Du Rourou asked, hugging her books as she came over.


    "I don''t think so," Zhou Yu thought about it and replied.


    "Then let''s go to the restaurants in the university town to eat," Du Rourou said excitedly, "I heard a new ce opened there, not only is the boss good looking, but the food is delicious too."


    "Even my middle school brothers have heard about it!"


    Zhou Yu happened to have nothing to do, so she agreed, "Okay! I do feel like going out for a nice meal to improve my diet a bit."


    The two girls walked out hand in hand, books in their arms.


    "Sha Sha''s Snacks?" Zhou Yu read the sign above the shop entrance.


    It felt very unique. As she thought this, she walked in arm in arm with her little sister.


    "Hello, what would you like to eat?" The young and beautiful bossdy greeted them warmly with a noticeable pregnant belly.


    Zhou Yu looked at her again and again, and still could not help butment N¨¹wa''s favoritism.


    N¨¹wa, are you there?


    Are you sleeping?


    I''m so ugly I can''t sleep.


    Before Zhou Yu could finish feeling dejected, Du Rourou had already eagerly started ordering.


    Full of anticipation, she asked Ding Sha, "Beautifuldy, do you have egg yolk mini potatoes here?"


    Ding Sha smiled at her, "Has this customer been to our ce before?"


    "Egg yolk mini potatoes are more of a snack to fill up the children''s stomachs when they''re hungry."


    "I can order it ¨¤ carte!" Du Rourou quickly said.


    Just hearing her annoying little brother talk about how delicious the egg yolk mini potatoes were, she had been thinking about it for nearly three days. Now that she was finally back at school, she muste try it.


    "Sure, I''ll make a portion just for you," Ding Sha still smiled warmly, seeming easy-going.


    At another table nearby, some men who looked unkempt but not poor were drinking and eating spicy garlic sprouts with braised pork belly.


    The men leered and stroked their chins, "Beauty,e sit with us for a bit, won''t you?"


    "Yeah, let''s chat together!"


    Ding Sha''s eyes turned cold,pletely ignoring them as she waited for Du Rourou to order.


    Du Rourou was startled, worried about the female boss as well as herself. She quickly ordered two dishes and finished.


    The man was displeased seeing Ding Sha walk away with the menu towards the bar counter. He reached out to grab her arm.


    "Didn''t I say not to leave? Can''t you understand human words?"


    "You try touching my wife again with your filthy hands?" Xiao Jun came out from the back kitchen holding a gleaming sharp knife.


    His gaze was gloomy and exuded a murderous aura. With the scar on his brow, he clearly looked like someone not to be trifled with.


    The man was frightened on the inside, but still had to add a few shameless words.


    "I''ll let you off today, but don''t forget, if I catch you alone, I won''t care pregnant or not..."


    Had he not said that, it would have been fine, but his words stepped right on Xiao Jun''s weakness and fury.


    Xiao Jun''s face darkened further, looking at the man as if his eyes could draw blood. He strode over inrge steps, "Say that again?"


    The man opened his mouth, but didn''t dare say anything in the end.


    They were just passing through and saw the attractive female boss, so their desires were stirred to try and cop a feel.


    Things hadn''t escted to the point of risking their lives...


    The man was a little frightened as Xiao Jun grabbed his cor.


    Xiao Jun could naturally tell he was only full of hot air without guts.


    So after letting go, he dismissively patted his hands, "You best remember what I said."


    Without another nce at the man, he turned and asked Ding Sha gently, "Did it scare you?"


    "No," Ding Sha handed him the order slip, "Here, make everything except the egg yolk mini potatoes."


    Du Rourou watched admiringly as the beautiful female boss and her boyfriend brimmed with affection.


    Suddenly, she heard Zhou Yu excitedly yell out, "It''s you! Little brother!"


    Du Rourou was puzzled, "Little Yu, you know the boss?"


    Ding Sha was also surprised, "Jun, is she your friend?"


    Xiao Jun nced coldly at Zhou Yu. Under her expectant gaze, he expressionlessly said, "Never seen her before. Don''t know her."


    "It''s me! Don''t you remember working at my dad''s restaurant? I talked to you!" Zhou Yu said agitatedly.


    Ever since meeting him that time, Zhou Yu could not forget him. She even dreamed of that day''s events at night. But in her dreams, the little brother was very gentle to her, made delicious food for her, and smiled at her.


    Gradually, Zhou Yu seemed to feel that she and the little brother were in love.


    In this vast world, although the little brother did not return after that, being able to meet now must be fate!


    Zhou Yu thought blissfully that she and the little brother were definitely bound by good affinity!


    Ding Sha understood immediately that peach blossoms were in full bloom!


    Xiao Jun didn''t even nce at her, just gave Du Rourou a loving and tender look, "Want to sit for a bit? I stewed milk custard eggs for you, with caramelized sugar on top, soft, sweet and smooth."


    Ding Sha touched her belly, "I''m not hungry now, not craving anything."


    Zhou Yu awoke from her fantasy, seeing Xiao Jun''s gentleness with that beautiful woman made her somewhat frustrated.


    But she also secretly hardened her resolve, still clinging to a hidden hope.


    The little brother would treat her this nicely in the future too!


    She was about to speak again when Du Rourou hurriedly pulled her to sit down, "Little Yu! What are you doing? I''m getting terminal embarrassment here, you know that?"


    "It''s a married couple talking, why are you butting in? Are you crazy?!"


    Du Rourou really could notprehend Zhou Yu''s behavior. Although Zhou Yu was a bit boy-crazy, she had always seemed fairly normal. How did she be a different person, shamelessly throwing herself at someone else''s husband?


    Hadn''t she noticed the boss''s re that could stab them through?


    Du Rourou resented Zhou Yu''sck of propriety internally. She still wanted face!


    But Zhou Yu enthusiastically told Du Rourou about their destiny, even blushing as she said they would certainly attain happiness in the future.


    Du Rourou looked on incredulously. At most they had seen each other twice and exchanged a few words. Yet she had already nned out the rest of her life?


    Simply preposterous.


    Du Rourou decided she could not think about this further. She decisively stood up and sat elsewhere, apologizing to Ding Sha, "Sorry, bossdy, may I reorder?"


    "Of course!" Ding Sha was unexpectedly understanding of her actions.


    Du Rourou ordered fish fragrant pork slices again, plus the egg yolk mini potatoes, then closed the menu.


    Zhou Yu did not understand, "Rourou? What are you doing?"


    Du Rourou humphed, "I don''tprehend your behavior, and I don''t want to understand your psychology either. I fundamentally cannot ept this. When paths diverge, people part ways."


    Zhou Yu was stunned, raising her voice, "You want to break off our friendship?"


    Du Rourou shook her head, "Breaking off is childish phrasing. As adults we should politely drift apart."


    Zhou Yu was also angry now. She did not understand why her friend did not support her love at first sight.


    Sitting on the stool, she pped the menu with a crackling sound, "Ordering!"


    Ding Sha smiled, "What would you like?"


    Zhou Yu crossed her arms, "Crucian carp tofu soup, milk custard egg."


    From this, Ding Sha could tell she was being deliberately difficult.


    Even a y figure has a temper. Her smile disappeared as she tly said, "Sorry, our little shop does not have those two dishes."


    "That''s impossible!"


    "I insist on ordering them!"


    "Our small shop cannot amodate such an esteemed guest." Ding Sha felt some back pain from standing too long and braced herself.


    Xiao Jun came over with a gloomy expression to support her, but his eyes towards Zhou Yu were very displeased.


    In his opinion, this woman was too noisy.


    But to Zhou Yu, it all seemed very jarring. She shrieked, "You''re not officially married without a marriage certificate! So I have the right topete fairly!"


    Du Rourou heard this and felt angry yet pitying.


    Compete fairly?


    Competing for what?


    Foolishness?


    But Ding Shaughed, "Although Jun and I aren''t old enough to register, we''re still a legally recognizedmonw marriage."


    "No matter how you glorify your own behavior, you''re still a third party trying to intrude on someone else''s marriage. Plus my husband has no interest in you whatsoever."

 Chapter 14: Little Potato with Egg Yolk

    <h4>Chapter 14</h4>


    Zhou Yu naturally could not ept what Ding Sha said. Her eyes involuntarily fell on Ding Sha''s bulging belly. Seeing the two of them standing together was very annoying to her.


    She somehow thought that if it weren''t for this child, would her sweetheart no longer be with this woman?


    Zhou Yu''s stare at Ding Sha''s belly made her hair stand on end. She shielded her belly and took a few steps back until she retreated into Xiao Jun''s arms before she felt a little more at ease.


    Xiao Jun also saw Zhou Yu''s eyes. His face was ashen as he stood in front of Ding Sha and warned, "I''m warning you, you''d better not challenge my bottom line."


    "Sweetheart, listen to me, she must not be a good person!" Zhou Yu suddenly smiled, "Just look at her, you know she must be unruly. Although she is very well-behaved in front of you, as soon as you go out, she will go seduce other men..."


    "The child in her belly is a bastard! I''ll get rid of him for you, and then we can be together..."


    The man who was sneaking a peek while lying low couldn''t help but shiver, "This woman must be crazy, right?"


    Du Rourou was also shocked. She had never seen Zhou Yu like this before, as if she had lost her mind.


    Xiao Jun nced at Du Rourou, "Do you have her family''s phone number?"


    Du Rourou shook her head. She and Zhou Yu were just roommates, she had never been to her home before.


    Suddenly she thought of a way, "Ah! Her family runs a hotel, you can definitely find the phone number by searching on Dianping!"


    "Please help me find it. Let me know once you get it," said Xiao Jun in a low voice.


    "What are you going to do?" Zhou Yu asked in bewilderment.


    She soon found out.


    After getting the number, Xiao Jun called Zhou Yu''s father.


    "Hello? Four Seasons Hotel."


    "Hello, is this Zhou Yu''s father?"


    "Yes, I am. May I ask who''s calling?" Boss Zhou was startled for a moment.


    "I borrowed your hotel kitchen some time ago to cook for my wife. Do you still remember me?"


    "I remember, I remember. What can I do for you?"


    "Here is the thing. Your daughter is refusing to leave my restaurant. Not only does she want to intrude on my marriage with my wife, she even wants to hurt my pregnant wife. You''d bettere get her quickly." Xiao Jun recounted in an expressionless manner.


    Boss Zhou was shocked and almost fell off his chair.


    He hurriedly asked for the address and rushed over.


    Zhou Yu felt heartbroken, "How could you do this to me? You obviously like me too!"


    Xiao Jun looked at her solemnly as he held Ding Sha, "Believe me, I don''t know her. She''s sick."


    Ding Sha couldn''t help butugh out loud.


    Xiao Jun was a little anxious, "I really don''t know her, she''s just here to make trouble."


    "Alright, alright, I know," Ding Sha stroked his hair that had slowly grown out and was no longer so prickly, "I believe your chastity is still intact."


    Xiao Jun muttered, "My chastity has already been given to you..."


    "Hmm? What did you say?" Ding Sha didn''t hear clearly.


    "Nothing. I was asking if you want to sit for a while." Xiao Jun lifted her hand he was holding and kissed her fingers.


    Boss Zhou arrived very quickly. As soon as he walked into the shop, he saw his daughter staring red-eyed at the loving couple across from her.


    She looked as if she was the victim.


    Boss Zhou was so angry he almost fainted. He walked over and dragged Zhou Yu out, "Let''s go home!"


    "Dad, I''m not going home!" Zhou Yu refused.


    "Get back home!" The embarrassment and his daughter''s uncooperativeness made Boss Zhou angry. "If you still want me as your dad, get back home right now!"


    Zhou Yu was stunned by the yell.


    After a long pause, she sniffed and lowered her head out.


    Boss Zhou hunched over and apologized to Ding Sha, "I''m sorry, I spoiled her, and caused trouble for you."


    "Little Yu is a bit obsessive because of what happened to her mother when she was young. Please be more understanding."


    "What kind of stimulus she has experienced is irrelevant to us, and we are not interested," Xiao Jun said with a half-smile. "Boss Zhou, keep an eye on your daughter in the future, don''t let her show up here again."


    "I don''t care if she''s a woman or a patient."


    Boss Zhou promised repeatedly, apologized a few more times, and then left.


    "Why are you still being sarcastic? Are you a rose?" Ding Sha poked his side, earning a tense look from him.


    "I have to make it clear to this kind of person, otherwise he won''t thoroughly restrain that neurotic." Xiao Jun took a menu and walked to the back.


    Ding Sha also smiled at Du Rourou, "Please wait a moment, the food will be right out."


    Du Rourou shook her head, "It''s okay, I''m in no hurry."


    When Xiao Jun finished stir-frying the dishes, Ding Sha went to make egg yolk baby potatoes.


    She chose locally grown small round potatoes. She washed and peeled them, soaked them for a while, boiled them in salted water until soft, then fried them twice in oil.


    Then she put two salted egg yolks and one boiled egg yolk in the pan with leftover oil. She mashed them over low heat until dense bubbles appeared, then added the fried potatoes. Once the potatoes were evenly coated with egg yolk, they could be ted.


    Ding Sha brought them out to Du Rourou while still hot.


    Du Rourou had smelled the salted egg yolk aroma for a long time. She kept turning back. Finally she saw Ding Sha bring out a te of golden baby potatoes.


    As soon as the te was on the table, Du Rourou couldn''t wait to pick one up and take a bite.


    The salty aroma was addictive, the unique taste of salted egg yolk made it hard to stop eating. The crispy fried outeryer of the potatoes was aromatic, while the inside was soft and chewy.


    Taking a bite, they were still steaming hot.


    The heat made Du Rourou yelp twice, but she still couldn''t help but continue to eat.


    She finally got to eat the egg yolk baby potatoes her brother talked about every day!


    From now on she could gloat at her brother at home!


    Du Rourou thought happily.


    Ding Sha was also happy. She held her belly and hurriedly looked for Xiao Jun, "Xiao Jun! Xiao Jun!"


    "I''m here! What''s wrong?" Hearing her shout, Xiao Jun was watering nts in the backyard. He hurriedly ran over.


    "Hurry! Hurry!" Ding Sha excitedly grabbed his hand and put it on her belly.


    Xiao Jun was confused, carefully touching her belly, "What''s wrong? Does your belly hurt?"


    "He! He! He''s moving!" Ding Sha finally suppressed some of the excitement.


    That strange feeling, although it could not be calledfortable, but just thinking that there was a little baby moving in there, it gave her an indescribable feeling.


    Xiao Jun was stunned for a moment, knelt down and touched her belly. The baby was exceptionally active, and soon Xiao Jun felt his hand being pushed up.


    At this point, even the usually calm Xiao Jun lost his cool, "He, he, he... he moved!!"


    Ding Sha looked at him with a smile.


    Xiao Jun put his face on her belly again and quietly felt it for a while. Perhaps the baby was tired, there was no more movement afterwards.


    Xiao Jun stood up somewhat disappointedly.


    Ding Shaforted him with a stroke.


    "We can do a 4D color ultrasound in a couple days at the next prenatal checkup. We''ll be able to clearly see the baby''s condition then."

 Chapter 15: Double Skin Milk

    <h4>Chapter 15</h4>


    Ding Sha sat up straight with her bulging belly at the table, pping the small ledger to make it go ¡°snap snap¡±, and said, ¡°Let¡¯s settle ounts and see how much money we¡¯ve earned!¡±


    Xiao Jun did not like this kind of detailed and tedious work, so he pulled over a stool and sat to one side watching Ding Sha as she frowned and bit her pen, with a serious and solemn look on her face as she carefully calcted the ie and expenses of their little family.


    Xiao Jun was very familiar with the way Ding Sha wrote, because for the past ten-odd years, he had countless times secretly watched Ding Sha in the not-so-outstanding vige school.


    At that time, he had just been abandoned by his mother. He was thin and small, dirty all over. The children of other families avoided him and threw rocks at him, calling him "little trash", saying that nobody wanted him.


    The adults were superficially kind to him, but secretly called him a jinx behind his back, saying he brought misfortune on his parents and had a tough fate.


    Xiao Jun didn¡¯t understand back then, and felt wronged. Even when others snatched his hard-earned belongings, he silently hoped that they would forgive him afterwards and y with him.


    It was so scary to be alone in the dark and vast room.


    Xiao Jun smiled at the thought, suddenly feeling that he was quite funny when he was little.


    A little bunny that nobody wanted, who cared about you?


    Ding Sha looked up, "What''s the matter?"


    She looked at Xiao Jun in confusion, "Did you say something just now?"


    "No," Xiao Jun fondly stroked her head, "Hurry up and calcte, we¡¯re going shopping tomorrow after you finish, remember?"


    Watching Ding Sha continue to concentrate on the tedious calctions, the once cold gaze due to memories became warm again.


    He had no good memories from his childhood experiences, except for meeting Ding Sha.


    The day he met Ding Sha, he was so hungry. It was a bad harvest that year, and no one in the vige had extra food to give him. He had to climb the hills behind the vige to dig for wild vegetables and fruits to fill his stomach.


    But all the edible stuff had been dug up by the vige women, even scraping off ayer of the ground.


    Little Xiao Jun felt dizzy from hunger.


    In the end, he couldn''t stand it and burst into tears sitting on the hillside.


    Perhaps he cried so sadly that it attracted a beautiful, fair and clean little girl.


    Little Ding Sha asked him, "Why are you crying? Did someone bully you?"


    The little man also had his pride. Little Xiao Jun wiped his tears and stopped crying, even hupping from the crying.


    Before he could speak, his stomach growled loudly.


    Little Ding Sha suddenly realized, "You are hungry!"


    She took out something from her pocket wrapped in a clean handkerchief. Unwrapping it, it was a shiny golden little rice cake that looked and smelled sweet and tempting. Xiao Jun almost reflexively swallowed.


    Little Ding Sha sat next to him and broke it into two pieces of exactly the same size, giving one piece to little Xiao Jun.


    He was starving, and didn''t know what refusal was. He only felt the rice cake was so sweet and soft. He wolfed it down and stuffed it into his mouth.


    Seeing him eat so quickly, little Ding Sha knew he was extremely hungry. Hesitantly, she gave him the other half as well.


    Only after eating both pieces did the burning feeling of hunger subside a little. Xiao Jun felt embarrassed.


    Ding Sha smiled and asked him, "Is it delicious? I made it myself."


    Xiao Jun was still tasting the vor in his mouth, "It''s delicious, but not enough to fill me up. If it was a steamed bun this big I could eat my fill."


    Little Ding Sha was dumbfounded for a moment, a little angry, "You really..."


    She wanted to find a word to say, but couldn''t think of one for the moment. She got up and left angrily in the end.


    Xiao Jun didn''t know why she was unhappy. He only felt the rice cake was so sweet, and the little girl was so pretty.


    It was onlyter that he learned Ding Sha had given him her lunch to eat and went to school hungry.


    Xiao Jun, who was often hungry year after year, felt that hunger was the most unbearable thing in the world. The little girl actually gave him her own lunch!


    Xiao Jun thought he must repay her, but he had nothing and did not know how to repay her. He remembered the older kids all said saving a life meant pledging yourself to the other person. Xiao Jun secretly decided to pledge himself to her!


    He sneaked into the vige school to watch Ding Sha in ss, watching her sit up straight holding her textbook, reciting out loud well-behavedly, watching her secretly cry when she couldn''t solve the math problems, watching her bounce back home from school with braided pigtails during busy farming seasons.


    He only watched for ten years.


    Ding Sha grew into a charming young woman, with big eyes, a melon seed face, gentle and beautiful.


    Young men from ten li around all secretly admired her, but still ndered her in private because of her rejections.


    This was how Xiao Jun practiced his fighting skills.


    When Ding Sha treated his wounds, sheined, "You got into a fight again?"


    Xiao Jun had a bruise on the corner of his eye, and grinned unconcernedly, "They were more badly injured than me, no problem!"


    Ding Sha red at him, "Ganging up on someone?"


    "What ganging up, it was one against many!" Xiao Jun refuted unhappily.


    Ding Sha deliberately pressed the swollen corner of his eye.


    "O!" Xiao Jun almost jumped up.


    Only then did Ding Sha lighten her actions, "I''ve told you I don''t care what they say, don''t keep getting yourself hurt."


    Xiao Jun didn''t agree, "Their mouths are as filthy as cesspools, have to wash them out to stop the stench."


    Ding Sha knew Xiao Jun wouldn''t listen, she could only buy more medicine and keep it at home.


    The year Ding Sha graduated from high school, her stepmother brought up a marriage proposal, wanting to marry her to a widower in the vige, so that she would have money to send the son she bore to study in a big city.


    Ding Sha knew that man, not only was he much older, but also beat his wife.


    Ding Sha knew she had to leave, or her life would be ruined.


    She secretly took out her household registration and split households, then at the vige gate saw Xiao Jun holding a bag, smoking with a somber expression, seemingly lost in thought.


    Ding Sha walked up to him, before she could speak, tears streamed down her face.


    Xiao Jun threw away the cigarette. His rough fingers smelling of tobo gently wiped away her tears and took her into his arms, "Don''t cry, I''ll take you away."


    They immediately took the midnight train to unknown ces, buying tickets randomly.


    The train was crowded. Xiao Jun held Ding Sha and let her sleep in his arms. He didn''t dare fall asleep, vigntly watching thispletely unfamiliar world like a wolf cub.


    The only thing apanying them was the tobo smell on Xiao Jun gradually bing stronger.


    Only when they arrived at Nanjiang City did they breathe a sigh of relief.


    Getting off the train at the bustling station, they were somewhat at a loss. Xiao Jun saw many young women holding cups of white liquid that looked like egg custard. Turning his head, he saw it was sold in the shop beside them. He let Ding Sha sit down while he went to buy a cup of something called Double Skin Milk.


    Ding Sha had an expression of delight and me.


    The two of them shared this cup of soft, cold, bean curd-like but far tastier, sweet and creamy treat.


    The red beans were soaked in sweetness.


    Xiao Jun snapped back from his reminiscing, stood up and went to the kitchen.


    Ding Sha looked up to see Xiao Jun with a warm and gentle smile at the corners of his mouth, handing her a cup of Double Skin Milk.


    "Still remember this?"

 Chapter 16: Millet Cake

    <h4>Chapter 16</h4>


    Ding Sha froze, feeling a little guilty. She had no memory.


    For the first time, she faced this question that she had deliberately ignored.


    She was not the Ding Sha that Xiao Jun loved deeply.


    She was just a lost soul who had crossed over from another world for some unknown reason. Even though she was called Ding Sha, she was not the original Ding Sha.


    Ding Sha suddenly felt irritated. "I don''t remember! I don''t know!"


    "Can you stop bothering me?!"


    She closed the ount book, got up and went back into the room.


    Xiao Jun watched her back feeling a little helpless.


    Sitting on the bed, Ding Sha soon regretted it. How could she have snapped at Xiao Jun?


    Clearly...


    Clearly it was her who had wronged Xiao Jun.


    Xiao Jun looked at the coconut milk in his hand without drinking it, and put it back in the fridge.


    There was no meaning in drinking it alone.


    That night, Ding Sha tossed and turned, unable to sleep. Xiao Jun, lying in the other bed by the window, noticed and got up to walk over, grabbing her calf, "Cramping again?"


    Without stopping, he gently and patiently massaged Ding Sha''s calf.


    Ding Sha felt even more guilty.


    She wanted to say something, but before she could, she heard Xiao Jun humming a little tune in a strangenguage.


    Xiao Jun''s mother was from an ethnic minority. When he was little, he had rarely been lucky enough to be lulled to sleep while being sung to.


    He could no longer remember what his mother looked like, but the melody still drifted in his dreams.


    Ding Sha slowly fell asleep.


    In her dream there was a young boy, his crying cat-like face, sweet millet cakes, and the silhouette of the boy smoking at the vige entrance in the night.


    The dream was long and dark.


    But the gentle little tune apanied her all the while, so she would not be afraid.


    When she woke up, it was just getting light. Xiao Jun had already gotten up and gone shopping.


    Sitting on the bed, Ding Sha felt as if she were in another world. She rubbed her eyes, cradling her belly as she washed up, and finally went to the kitchen.


    The fridge was a little empty, with a cup of the sweet coconut milk with red beans she had seen in her dream.


    Ding Sha took out some millet.


    She wanted to make millet cakes for Xiao Jun.


    She didn''t know why she had dreamed of that memory, but Ding Sha felt that if Xiao Jun came back to see millet cakes, he would definitely be very happy.


    She soaked the fresh millet in water and set it aside. Ding Sha took three eggs and separated the whites from the yolks.


    She whipped the egg whites with lemon juice and white sugar into a meringue-like texture and set it aside.


    Then she mixed the soaked millet and three egg yolks with some corn oil in a blender into a smooth batter.


    Finally, shebined the egg whites and batter in a small bowl, tapping it on the table.


    Lastly, she sprinkled a few raisins on top.


    She boiled water and steamed it.


    Just as she had finished steaming, she heard the door open as Xiao Jun returned.


    Hearing noises in the kitchen, he went directly over and saw Ding Sha with sweat on her forehead supporting her belly as she lifted the steamer lid.


    "Let me do it, let me do it." Xiao Jun was shocked, afraid she would identally scald herself.


    Ding Sha smiled and gestured for him to lift it.


    As Xiao Jun opened it, he saw the golden millet cakes, fluffy and soft, looking sweet as well.


    Suddenly, he couldn''t speak.


    He knew Ding Sha liked good food, liked eating, liked cooking. So whether there was an asion or not, he would think about making dishes for her.


    But of all the things he had eaten over the years, what he had loved the most were still the millet cakes he had eaten as a child.


    That sweet taste seemed to be etched into his soul, growing along with him. No matter when, whenever he was hungry, the first thing he would think of was always that millet cake.


    "Jun?" Ding Sha couldn''t help patting his shoulder when she saw him lost in thought.


    Xiao Jun murmured in reply as he set about taking out the millet cakes and cutting them into quarters.


    Seeing Ding Sha pick up a piece, he also took a bite. "Delicious."


    It was the same taste as his memory.


    Still so sweet and soft.


    Xiao Jun looked at Ding Sha.


    Except the pretty girl from back then was now his wife.


    As soon as this thought arose, a feeling of delight welled up from the bottom of his heart, making his limbs feel lighter.


    His wife.


    Their little life together.


    The two of them.


    It really was wonderful.


    Xiao Jun couldn''t help squinting his eyes.


    After breakfast, Xiao Jun took Ding Sha back to the maternity hospital for a prenatal checkup.


    There weren''t too many people today, so they were called for the 4D ultrasound soon.


    Xiao Jun followed Ding Sha in, holding her hand tensely as he watched the doctor pull up her shirt to expose her bulging belly and smear some gel over it.


    The doctor pointed at the image to show them, "Look, this is the baby''s head, these are the little hands. He''s curled up in mommy''s tummy."


    "A very healthy baby." The doctor concluded.


    The little couple heaved a sigh of relief. As they left the hospital, they went to a nearby street lined with baby stores.


    "Which one to buy?" Ding Sha held a blue and a gray baby outfit, somewhat conflicted as she felt both were cute.


    "Let''s get both, get both." Xiao Jun reached out to take them directly into the shopping basket.


    Ding Sha nced back and saw the basket was piled high with things, almost overflowing!


    She picked up an especially beautiful and fancy pair of pink baby shoes. "What''s the point of buying this?"


    "For our daughter to wear!" Xiao Jun said matter-of-factly.


    Ding Sha froze for a moment, wondering if she should tell him the baby was a boy.


    The basket also had many pink clothes, shoes, bibs, burp cloths, and diapers.


    Xiao Jun nodded confidently, "I added a midwife on WeChat. She sent me a list of things to prepare. I bought everything ording to what she said."


    Ding Sha put the pink items back. "What if it''s a boy? You want him to wear pink too?"


    Xiao Jun refused to believe her words. "How could it be a boy? It must be a girl!"


    Ding Sha picked out some mustard-yellow clothes. "These are fine right? Good for either gender."


    Xiao Jun reluctantlypromised.


    On the way home, Xiao Jun carriedrge and small bags, with more stuff strapped to his back. He looked just like a refugee fleeing with belongings.


    Xiao Jun stopped to weigh the packages that were slipping down and thought to himself that he should buy a car. It would be even more inconvenient after the baby was born.


    Luckily their little shop wasn''t far from the maternity hospital. After walking for a bit, they arrived.


    From afar, they saw someone pacing back and forth at their door. Ding Sha assumed it was a customer who hade before realizing they were closed today.


    Drawing nearer, they saw it was Da Zhuang from the construction site.


    Da Zhuang was pacing outside the door. Hearing a call, "Brother?"


    He turned to see Ding Sha dressed in maternity clothes. Her face was rounder, but her body was still thin. The roundest part of her was that pregnant belly.


    Behind her, Xiao Jun carried a pile of stuff on his back.


    Ding Sha opened the door and let him in to sit down. "What would you like to eat today?"


    Da Zhuang looked around. The shop was bigger than he had imagined, with seven or eight tables, tidy and cleanly arranged. The decor was a Chinese antique style, giving a unique sense of taste.


    He randomly ordered a pork belly hot pot. Only then did he sheepishly say, "Sis and bro-inw, I came because I have a request."


    "Would you happen to be hiring for your shop?"

 Chapter 17: Twice-cooked Pork

    <h4>Chapter 17</h4>


    Some days ago, Ding Sha and Xiao Jun were still discussing whether or not they should hire more people. With the small shop''s business getting better and better, it was getting hard for just the two of them to handle everything.


    Xiao Jun put everything in ce and sat down next to Ding Sha. "Big Brother Zhuang, you''re not working at the construction site anymore?"


    "It''s not me, it''s my wife," Da Zhuang said somewhat awkwardly. "She wants to find some work to do."


    As he spoke, he seemed a bit hesitant. "But there are some circumstances I need to tell you about first."


    "What is it?" Ding Sha was very curious seeing his hesitant and awkward manner.


    "Well..." Da Zhuang bit his teeth. "She''s not alone - she has to take care of her aunt."


    As the words came out, Da Zhuang felt somewhat relieved but also really ashamed. He knew Ding Sha was kind, which was why he had the audacity toe ask.


    "Her aunt used to have some mental issues, but she''s not violent at all, and will also help with the work."


    As soon as Xiao Jun heard this, he refused. Knowing Ding Sha''s current condition, he didn''t feel assured having any unstable factors around her, let alone someone with a history of mental illness.


    Da Zhuang quickly said, "Brother Xiao, please hear me out. My aunt absolutely won''t harm our miss!"


    "You don''t know - my aunt used to be known as an extremely capable person in the ten li surrounding area. Her husband was also diligent and honest. They had two children, an older brother and a younger sister, and both kids were smart and obedient. Everyone in the vige said they envied how well off their family was."


    Da Zhuang sighed and continued, "But a few years ago, the whole family of four went out to celebrate the little girl''s birthday. They had just put the candles in the cake at the restaurant and hadn''t sung happy birthday yet when there was a huge explosion in the kitchen due to a gas leak."


    "Both kids died on the spot, and uncle passed away after struggling for a few days at the hospital. Only auntie survived because she had gone out to buy ice cream for the kids."


    "But after a few days, auntie''s mental state became abnormal. She ignored people and didn''t speak, and would cry when she saw little girls, and was afraid of big fires."


    "Auntie took care of our family before. The things I prepared for my wedding with Cui''er were all arranged by auntie. She was good to us, so Cui''er and I decided to bring auntie to live with us."


    "Previously Cui''er was always at home taking care of the child and auntie. I worked at construction sites to earn money. Now auntie''s mental condition has almost fully recovered, and Cui''er felt bad for me and said to bring auntie to find some work, so things at home would be better too."


    Da Zhuang rubbed his hands. "That''s basically the situation. Unfortunately there are still many ces that don''t want auntie, so I shamelessly came to ask if you all..."


    Xiao Jun hadn''t said anything yet, but Ding Sha spoke up. "Can we meet sister-inw and auntie?"


    "Of course, of course!" Da Zhuang was extremely happy and immediately took out his phone to call them at the door.


    "Ding Ding, I think..." Xiao Jun frowned, about to say something.


    Ding Sha immediately covered her ears. "I don''t want your opinion, I want my opinion!"


    After saying this, she observed Xiao Jun''s reaction. As expected, she saw himpletely confused.


    He really hadn''t read the Ming ssics!


    Ding Sha chuckled. She hooked Xiao Jun''s arm and said, "Ohe on, it''s just meeting them! I haven''t decided to hire them yet, don''t worry so much."


    "If it''s not suitable after meeting them we can talk then. If it is suitable, it''ll save us the trouble of hiring someone else."


    She also gently shook his arm.


    Xiao Jun stroked her head. His eyes were full of tenderness - this was the Ding Sha he was most familiar with.


    "Ding Ding, since I''ve been back, you''ve been much more distant with me. Are you..."


    Xiao Jun wanted to ask if she minded that he had been in prison once.


    But Ding Sha panickly thought he had noticed her slip-up.


    "What did you say?" Ding Sha pretended she didn''t hear him clearly.


    But Xiao Jun noticed her barely concealed panic and unease.


    So she did mind after all?


    Da Zhuang came back holding his phone. "I told Cui''er, they''ll be here soon!"


    Xiao Jun stood up. "Then you sit first. I''ll go stir fry something."


    He put on an apron and went into the kitchen.


    He soakedrge pieces of pork belly in cold water, then cooked them with scallions, ginger, garlic, and rice wine. He cut the cooked pork into thin slices, then stir fried it in hot oil until the fat rendered out. He fried the aromatics until fragrant, then added a spoonful of salty and spicy doubanjiang to make the red oil. Based on experience, he seasoned it.


    Every chef''s twice cooked pork tasted different. Xiao Jun liked to dry fry then fry the fatty pork until aromatic. The saltiness of the doubanjiang was already enough, so he added some rice wine, salt, sugar, and a little bit of soy sauce. Finally he threw in a handful of garlic sprouts and gave it a few more stirs before taking it off the heat.


    Xiao Jun brought out this rice killer dish from the kitchen. Ding Sha was already sitting inside going through yesterday''s remaining ounts, while Da Zhuang eagerly scooped out rice into bowls.


    "You don''t know how much I''ve been craving this!" Da Zhuang shoveled a huge mouthful in, savoring it blissfully for a few chews. "Especially recently, being so busy I''m exhausted. The workers are so tired when they get home they just pass out. We''ve been dreaming about your twice cooked pork these days."


    "Come often then." Xiao Jun brought over a pot of water and ced it on the table, and also fished out some homemade pickles Ding Sha had made for him to try.


    After eating their fill, it wasn''t long before the two women came in.


    It was Cui''er and her auntie.


    Da Zhuang hurried off, "I have to get back to the construction site, or I''ll get fined for being caught ying hooky. Cui''er, let me know however it turns out!"


    He left instructions and rushed off.


    The women stood awkwardly in ce, not daring to move.


    Cui''er looked much older than women her age, probably from years of hard work. Her hands were full of calluses and cracks. She wore a floral top, and her hair was neatlybed.


    Her auntie had a round face despite being gaunt, looking very amiable. She was likewise clean and tidy, extremely capable looking.


    "Have a seat first, you must be tireding all this way. Have some water first." Ding Sha poured two cups of cooled boiled water and ced them on the table.


    The women hurriedly thanked her and epted them.


    Perhaps Ding Sha''s gentle and soft manner put them at ease. Cui''er spoke up somewhat nervously, "Bossdy, I''m called Cui''er, 35 this year. This is my auntie, called Zhuang Qiongying, 48 this year."


    As she spoke, she took some papers out of her pocket. "These are mine and my auntie''s physical exam reports. This is my auntie''s diagnosis certificate. She really doesn''t have any more problems now."


    Xiao Jun took them and looked through carefully, while Ding Sha looked at Zhuang Qiongying. Zhuang Qiongying smiled at her. "Bossdy, I''ve recovered now. I can do normal tasks like washing dishes, cleaning, washing vegetables and preparing ingredients. I can also do bookkeeping."


    She seemed very normal.


    After Xiao Jun asked some more questions, he decided to keep both of them with Ding Sha''s consent.


    "There are empty rooms in the west wing. You guys can clean up and live there," Xiao Jun didn''t let Ding Sha get up. He brought them to the backyard. "The toilet is over there, the kitchen is there."


    "Since it''s room and board, the pay won''t be too high."


    "My wife is pregnant now so many things are inconvenient for her, so you must take extra care of her."


    Xiao Jun gave instructions one by one. "That''s it, feel free to move around."


    After finishing, he went to apany Ding Sha.


    He still remembered their earlier conversation topic.


    Xiao Jun was stubborn. He wanted to ask Ding Sha if she really minded.

 Chapter 18: Fish-flavored Shredded Pork

    <h4>Chapter 18</h4>


    Ding Sha happily took the small ount book to find him, and even put the opened book in front of him and pointed to that number and said, "A Jun! Look! We earned a lot of money!"


    "More than we originally estimated!"


    When Xiao Jun took a look at the profit, and then looked at her flushed little face because of excitement, the depressed feeling that had been pent up in his heart suddenly dissipated.


    No matter how much he disliked it, as long as she was happy it was fine.


    At worst... he would try harder to treat her even better, so that no one else couldpare.


    Xiao Jun supported her, "Sha Sha is really amazing! We earned so much!"


    Ding Sha clipped the book under her arm, and started counting off on her fingers.


    "Hmm, actually it''s not really that much, we still have to buy you a car, and buy you some clothes, the house also needs some furniture and appliances..."


    "It will be autumn and winter soon, then there will be a lot of thick quilts, thick clothes and so on that we''ll need to buy..."


    As Ding Sha spoke, she sighed, "Money really doesn''t go far, does it..."


    Xiao Jun pursed his lips, "I''ll earn it."


    Seeing his expression, Ding Sha knew he was feeling down, so she stroked his face, "I know, I believe in you." We''re much better off now than before, and we can save money too."


    Xiao Jun murmured in agreement, but he was thinking about how to earn more money.


    Ding Sha was getting heavier, and she was also starting to get sleepy, often not waking up until nearly noon.


    Sister-inw Zhuang took on the job of server in the lobby, and would wash dishes asionally when not busy. She was used to this kind of work and was very neat and efficient.


    Auntie Zhuang helped prep food in the kitchen earlier, then went to the front cash register to settle ounts. Xiao Jun observed that she calcted the bills very quickly and almost never made mistakes.


    "Boss, there''s something I want to talk to you about," Sister-inw Zhuang said hesitantly while washing vegetables.


    Xiao Jun nced at her while slicing potatoes next to her, "Go ahead."


    "It will be autumn soon, and the boss''s belly has gotten bigger too. It''s time to buy her some warmer clothes to change into," Auntie Zhuang had wanted to say this for a while but hadn''t dared.


    "Also, pregnant women be more and more ufortable inte pregnancy. There are a lot of things that need to be prepared in advance, those pads and pillows and the like, they all need to be ready."


    Xiao Jun listened carefully when he heard it was about Ding Sha''s needs. "Why don''t you make me a list of what needs to be bought, and I''ll go shopping this afternoon when I have time."


    Only then did Auntie Zhuang sigh in relief with a smile, "Good good, I''ll write it for you after I finish up here."


    Seeing that Xiao Jun didn''t seem as stern as he looked, she also dared to chat with him casually, "I reckon the boss is about five or six months pregnant now?"


    "Almost six months," Xiao Jun''s expression softened involuntarily. He and Ding Sha didn''t have experienced older female rtives around them, so he had been a little worried in his heart all this time.


    Now someone was willing to talk to him more about it, and he was also willing to listen.


    "The boss is too thin," Auntie Zhuang frowned. "Is the morning sickness bad?"


    "She threw up whatever she ate in the early days. She only liked eating sour plums," Xiao Jun was also troubled.


    Later he didn''t dare let Ding Sha sit in the shop to smell the oily fumes, and moved the reclining chair outside for her to rest on. "It''s better now, but she still doesn''t eat much, saying she''s full after a few bites."


    "Craving sour food? It''s likely a boy." Auntie Zhuang said. "But there''s no help for the pregnancy nausea. You should try different ways to make more food for her, get her to eat as much as possible, it''s good for her body and the baby."


    Xiao Jun murmured in agreement, thinking about what to make.


    Auntie Zhuang added, "Oh right, yesterday I heard someone delivering milk outside. Boss, have you ordered milk for the bossdy?"


    Xiao Jun shook his head. "I''ve always bought her boxed cow''s milk."


    Auntie Zhuang immediately shook her head at this. "That won''t work. She has to drink the kind of fresh milk that the dairy farmers milk daily. It''s delicious when boiled too, with ayer of creamy milk skin on top, smelling and tasting sweet."


    Xiao Jun made a note. "I''ll go ask about it right after this and order some for Sha Sha."


    Only then did Auntie Zhuang flick her vegetable-coated hands happily. "That''s right, drinking more milk will help the baby grow up fair, beautiful and tall!"


    Xiao Jun couldn''t help imagining what the little one would look like. A faint smile appeared as he thought of something.


    Auntie Zhuang added, "And you two are both so good looking, this baby will definitely be even more handsome."


    Sister-inw Zhuang lifted the door curtain. "One fish-vored pork shreds, and a bowl of rice."


    "Got it." Xiao Jun skillfully picked out the ingredients he needed from the tray - pork shreds, wood ear fungus shreds, green bell pepper shreds and carrot shreds, adding some bamboo shoot shreds as well.


    He marinated the pork shreds briefly with salt, cornstarch, light soy sauce and rice wine, then made the fish-vored sauce without actual fish.


    He stir-fried the pork shreds in hot oil until the color turned white, then scooped them out. Using the remaining oil, he stir-fried minced scallions, ginger and garlic till fragrant, then added broad bean paste to get the red oil. After stir-frying the vegetables till they softened, he returned the pork shreds to the wok, poured in the fish-vored sauce and gave it a few more stirs.


    The sweet, spicy fish-vored pork shreds were ready.


    Auntie Zhuang served a bowl of rice. Carrying the dish, she came out to where there was only one customer in the shop, looking like a teenager with clothes washed to fading whiteness.


    He sat at the table rather apprehensively. The fish-vored pork shreds were the cheapest item on the menu.


    He had heard Wang Dong rave repeatedly about how delicious the food here was, and he also wanted to eat here once.


    Auntie Zhuang ced the rice and dish before him. "Food''s ready."


    He was so startled he blurted out, "Tha...thank you!"


    Auntie Zhuang liked children. At his response, she ruffled his head, "Hurry eat while it''s hot. There''s free egg soup in the shop, just help yourself if your mouth gets dry."


    She pointed to the metal bucket at the side.


    The boy''s eyes lit up. The portions were big, he would definitely eat his fill, and there was free soup too...


    He quickly thanked her before excitedly picking up his chopsticks and heartily tucking in.


    The sweet, spicy vors were so tasty with rice. The boy stuffed his cheeks ful as he ate, feeling his mouth continue secreting saliva madly.


    Afraid he would choke, Auntie Zhuang brought him a cup of warm water and a bowl of soup.


    "Poor child," Auntie Zhuang clucked her tongue and didn''t return to the kitchen, just stood at the doorway chatting softly with Sister-inw Zhuang. "See how hungry he is. Who knows what his elders at home are up to!"


    Sister-inw Zhuang also shook her head sympathetically.


    Finally the boy cleaned his te and bowls spotless, even scraping them with his rice. After drinking three or four bowls of soup, he sheepishly wiped his mouth.


    Auntie Zhuang smiled kindly when he came over to settle the bill. "Eat your fill?"


    "I''m full, thanks." The boy nodded awkwardly. "How much in total?"


    "Sixteen total." Auntie Zhuang said.


    "I ate two bowls of rice." The boy took out two crumpled 10 yuan notes from his pocket. "It should be eighteen dors."


    Auntie Zhuang gave him four dors change. "Rice here is priced per person, not per bowl. Two dors per person."


    Only then did the boy take the money.


    From then on, the boy came every three days. Auntie Zhuang got to know him - his name was Si Le, a middle school student.


    Si Le was good friends with Wang Dong. Wang Dong often found ways to feed him, because Si Le''s family circumstances were poor.


    His mother gave birth to him out of wedlock. After having him, she drank every day. At home, Si Le often saw his dead drunk mother sprawled like mud.


    Not only did he have to care for his mother, he had to shoulder the costs of their living too.


    At such a young age, he had to bnce studies and work odd jobs to earn money for himself and his mother.


    He knew education could change fates, so he always studied very hard and diligently.


    But growing boys get hungry fast. His nned daily food budget was never enough, and he often endured the burning hunger pains in his stomach.


    Wang Dong told him this shop had great affordable food. Si Le endured for several days but could hold out no longer - no matter how it tasted, as long as it was affordable and gave big portions he was sold.


    After listening, Auntie Zhuang even cried and tried to give him her own private savings, but Si Le didn''t ept it.


    Auntie Zhuang couldn''t help telling Ding Sha and Xiao Jun about it. From that day onwards, Si Le''s portions became even bigger, sometimes with extras to take away.


    Si Le was deeply grateful that the boss was looking out for him, and swore to repay their kindness someday.


    The autumn wind swirled and brought down the withered yellow leaves. The weather seemed to suddenly turn cold overnight. Ding Sha put on thick wool pants and a thick maternity skirt, dressed warmly and thickly.


    After going over the ounts with Zhuang Auntie in the evening and about to close the shop, Ding Sha saw a ck lump lying in the corner of the door.


    Ding Sha took a closer look and found it was a fainted child!

 Chapter 19: Tomato pimple Soup

    <h4>Chapter 19</h4>


    Ding Sha hugged her belly and couldn''t bend down, so she quickly asked Zhuang Auntie to go see if that was really a child.


    Zhuang Auntie had been waiting to pick the person up from the ground. It was a child who looked three or four years old. His clothes were dirty and his little face was as dirty as a calico cat.


    Zhuang Auntie took the child into the house. Ding Sha struggled to call Xiao Jun out in a hoarse voice.


    "Where did this childe from?" Xiao Jun was shocked.


    "Picked up at the door," Ding Sha said absentmindedly, tightly grasping his sleeve.


    Pregnant women can''t stand to see children suffer. Seeing the child like this made her heart ache.


    Xiao Jun patted her reassuringly, "Don''t worry, I and Auntie will take him to the hospital. You and Sister-inw stay at home waiting for us. I''ll call you."


    Ding Sha knew that if she insisted on going, it would make Xiao Jun worry, so she reluctantly agreed, "You must call me."


    Xiao Jun hmmmed, and Zhuang Auntie saw the child''s clothes were thin. She went back to the room to grab a nket to wrap him up and held him in her arms, "Poor thing, it''s so cold but he''s only wearing a single cloth!"


    Xiao Jun called a car. Ding Sha transferred 20,000 yuan to his mobile phone, "This is for medical expenses. Let me know if it''s not enough."


    Xiao Jun kissed her forehead, "I know, don''t worry at home."


    The car arrived, Xiao Jun waved to Ding Sha and took Zhuang Auntie into the car, heading to the nearest pediatric hospital.


    Zhuang Auntie couldn''t hold him for too long. Xiao Jun took over and ran into the emergency department, "Hello, this child has fainted."


    The little nurse quickly took him to the bed and put the child down. Another nurse ran to call the doctor.


    Xiao Jun breathed a sigh of relief and stood quietly with Zhuang Auntie waiting.


    The doctor came to examine him, "Nothing serious, probably just hungry."


    "Do a blood test, hang up some IV fluids, and he''ll wake up after a while."


    The doctor handed the prescription to Xiao Jun, "Are you the child''s family? Go pay the fee and set up a medical record for the child."


    Xiao Jun took the prescription, "I don''t know this child. He fainted at my shop door and asked me to take him here."


    "The fee is no problem, but the medical record will probably have to wait until he wakes up and asks his name."


    The doctor pushed up his sses, "Then there''s no hurry. Why don''t you sit for a while too."


    "Let''s see if we can contact his parents when the child wakes up."


    Xiao Jun hmmmed. He went to pay the fees first.


    The doctor came back after finishing his work and saw a stack of receipts in his hand, knowing that he had paid the fees. He tsked.


    "You can wait until his parentse to pay. No need to pay first yourself."


    It wasn''t that he was petty, but he had really seen parents who dodged medical fees before.


    Seeing that the young man didn''t seem wealthy either, best not let him get scammed. Also, looking at the child''s dirty clothes, fainting from hunger, his parents were unlikely to be good people either.


    Xiao Jun shook his head, "I paid first."


    He didn''t have much hope of finding the child''s parents. He couldn''t let the hospital foot the bill anyway.


    It wasn''t that he was kind, he was just afraid that the hospital would resent them when Ding Sha came to give birthter.


    Although he knew it was unlikely, he just couldn''t help thinking all kinds of nonsense.


    Xiao Jun sent Ding Sha the specifics on his phone. Zhuang Auntie borrowed some wet wipes, soaked them in warm water, and wiped the child''s face.


    "Oh, what a handsome boy!" With his face wiped clean, the little boy''s face was revealed.


    Zhuang Auntie wiped his uninjected hand, "Later let Ding Sha see this cute boy too. If she gives birth to such a good-looking child, it would be wonderful."


    Speaking of which, she chatted with Xiao Jun about some rumors circting in the vige about tips for pregnant women.


    Like pregnant women eating more grapes, the baby''s eyes will be bigger...


    Like pregnant women looking at beautiful people more, the baby will also be better looking...


    Xiao Jun listened with great interest.


    Xiao Shitou groggily felt like he was lying in a warm ce. He even felt his tummy wasn''t so hungry anymore.


    Is it brother?


    Did brother find me and bring me home?


    He opened his eyes in a daze, seeing a snow-white ceiling, his hand hurt a little.


    It seemed someone was holding his hand to warm it.


    He stared nkly at the strange auntie and brother smiling and chatting by the bed.


    There were many people here, and it was noisy, but Xiao Shitou wasn''t afraid at all.


    Zhuang Auntie felt the small hand in her palm move, looked back, and saw a pair of misty big eyes staring at her.


    The little guy even called her Auntie with a sweet voice.


    Zhuang Auntie happily eximed, "What''s wrong little one? Does it hurt anywhere?"


    Xiao Shitou shook his head, touched his tummy, "Tummy hungry."


    "Oh my, naughty child," Zhuang Auntie felt distressed stroking his little face, "After this IV we''ll go home to eat."


    Seeing him awake, Xiao Jun went to find the doctor. The doctor examined him again, looked at the blood test report, "No problem, it''s normal for a child to faint when hungry."


    "He can leave after the IV. There''s no issue."


    He smiled and asked Xiao Shitou, "Little one, what''s your name?"


    "Xiao Shitou." The little guy answered in a soft voice.


    "How old are you?"


    "Four years old."


    "Good boy," the doctor pinched his little face, "What about your dad and mom?"


    Xiao Shitou lowered his head and didn''t speak.


    The doctor asked again, but Xiao Shitou still didn''t speak.


    The doctor didn''t ask anymore. He pulled Xiao Jun aside, "This child was probably abandoned by his parents right?"


    Xiao Jun shook his head, "Don''t know. I''ll take him home first. It''s toote today. I''ll go to the police station tomorrow to see if I can contact his parents."


    "Alright, thanks for the trouble, brother." The doctor patted his shoulder. Just as he finished speaking, he got called away.


    The nurse removed the IV for him. Zhuang Auntie wrapped him in a nket, "Let''s go home!"


    Xiao Shitou obedientlyy on her shoulder, looking at Xiao Jun somewhat fearfully.


    Xiao Jun didn''t speak, taking out his phone to send Ding Sha a message.


    The light at the shop door was still on. As soon as they entered, they saw Gong Sister-inw supporting Ding Sha persuading her to sit down.


    Xiao Jun strode over to hold Ding Sha.


    "You''re back?" Ding Sha looked at him with a smile, "Cold?"


    "Not cold." Xiao Jun frowned, grabbing her icy hands, "Why aren''t you inside?"


    "I just can''t sit still." Ding Sha coquettishly made excuses.


    Zhuang Auntie put the little guy on a chair. Ding Sha poured him a small cup of hot milk, "Little one''s awake?"


    Xiao Shitou blinked staring at Ding Sha for a while, "Fairy Sister!"


    Ding Sha smiled stroking his head, "Hungry?"


    Xiao Shitou drank a sip of the sweet milk, touched his tummy again, and nodded, "Hungry."


    Ding Sha pulled Xiao Jun along, "I made dumpling soup. It''s just right since everyone''s been waiting half the night. Why don''t we have a midnight snack together?"


    Xiao Jun red at her, "You''re still cooking!"


    Ding Sha shook his arm.


    Xiao Jun helplessly went to the kitchen todle the dumpling soup.


    Opening the pot lid, a burst of appetizing steam rushed up. The colors in the pot were distinct, red tomatoes, golden egg flowers, green vegetables, and ck wood ear strips, with white dumplings floating in it.


    It wasn''t very fancy or expensive.


    But it would arouse a craving in the middle of the night.


    Perhaps it was the taste of mom''s cooking, or the smell of someone else cooking when ying crazily as a child.


    But there was no denying that when you smelled and saw it, you would suddenly wake up - ah, really hungry.


    Everyone squeezed around a table drinking the steaming hot dumpling soup. Xiao Shitou held a small spoon feeding himself fragrantly from the bowl.


    Gong Sister-inw couldn''t help but say, "Ding Sha''s skills really are amazing."


    Indeed, although the dishes Xiao Jun made were also very tasty, after eating Ding Sha''s dishes, his seemed not as good as hers.


    The sound of slurping filled the hall. Before they finished eating, urgent knocking was heard at the door.


    "Bang bang bang!"

 Chapter 20: Pickled pickled Cabbage and chestnut Cake

    <h4>Chapter 20</h4>


    Zhuang Auntie stood up from her seat, ¡°Howe it¡¯s so busy tonight?"


    She said as she went to open the door, and saw Le panting heavily at the door.


    "Le?" Zhuang Auntie looked at him in surprise.


    Si Le was panting with flushed face, "I... I knocked because I saw the lights on..."


    "What''s wrong, did something happen?" Zhuang Auntie hurriedly let him in.


    Si Le hemmed and hawed, "Do you have..." As he walked in, he saw the cute little baby sitting at the table holding a bowl and drinking happily.


    "Xiao Shitou!" Si Le ran up to him anxiously, "Where did you run off to? I''ve been looking for you for half a day!"


    Seeing his brother, Xiao Shitou was not afraid either, and stretched out his soft arms and called out softly for his brother to hug him.


    Si Le picked him up, first smelling his sweet milky scent, followed by the delicious fragrant rice smell.


    He couldn''t help but swallow.


    Xiao Shitou held out his dirty bowl for him to eat, "Brother, eat."


    Si Le smiled, "Brother doesn''t eat, Xiao Shitou eat."


    Zhuang Auntie said in surprise, "Xiao Shitou is your child?"


    Gong Sister-inw served Si Le a bowl of egg drop soup, "Come and sit down to eat, and talk slowly."


    Si Le sat down shyly, and Xiao Shitou sat next to him licking his bowl.


    "Xiao Shitou is my brother," Si Le said, "but we don''t have the same father."


    "My mother didn''t find out she was pregnant until her belly was very big. That man didn''t have children, and my mother agreed to give birth to Xiao Shitou for a sum of money. My mother didn''t care about him, but that man did."


    "Xiao Shitou was given away as soon as he was born, I hadn''t even seen him yet."


    "A few days ago Xiao Shitou was sent back because that man did a DNA test and said Xiao Shitou wasn''t his pup."


    "My mother didn''t care, and the man left after abandoning him, so I could only take care of him."


    Si Le scratched his head, "But I really don''t have much time, so I had him wait for me at the school gatekeeper."


    "I forgot to bring him food today, he must have been hungry."


    Zhuang Auntie was already listening with tearful eyes. She couldn''t help but hold Xiao Shitou in her arms, "Oh, the poor child, he''s so young and still has to go to school."


    Ding Sha thought for a moment, "This can''t go on like this. How about this, when you go to school in the future, just leave Xiao Shitou here."


    "I''ll pay you a sry every month."


    Si Le eagerly nodded, "I can, I can! I''ll tally it up very quickly!"


    Ding Sha handed a stack of cards to Si Le, "I''ll have Gong Sister-inw wait for you at the door two periods before ss ends, just give her the order sheets."


    Si Le took the thick stack of cards, and was immediately filled with motivation.


    He would definitely do a good job on the task the bossdy gave him!


    The weather was slowly getting cold. Ding Sha got up early that day, and pulled Xiao Jun to find the old brine she had asked for from Aunt Zhang in the vige from a pile of jars.


    The fresh white radishes, carrots, broad beans, small chili peppers, bell peppers and bamboo shoots were all washed and dried.


    Some ginger and garlic were also cut, and arge handful of chili peppers and Sichuan peppers were prepared.


    It was a pity there was no tender ginger to soak.


    The processed vegetables without water or oil were packed into the empty jar, then a few pieces of rock sugar, bay leaves and star anise were added, followed by the chili peppers and Sichuan peppers, and finally the salted alkali water was poured in to submerge the ingredients, then two spoons of old brine were added.


    Finally, the jar mouth was sealed with water and ced in a shady ce to ferment.


    Generally it can be eaten after one week of fermentation.


    The sour and spicy crispy pickle is appetizing and helps with digestion.


    However, Ding Sha often fished it out after three days, cut it into small pieces, added some chili oil and vinegar, mixed it up, and served it as a topping for congee, rice, or noodles, which was very popr.


    Ding Sha''s pickles were also usually the fast-selling items in the small shop. These delicious freebies were often seen being enjoyed by the tall and sturdy men from the northwest, crunching on garlic pickles with satisfaction on their faces.


    Ding Sha finally bid farewell to her morning sickness, and began entering the stage of wanting to eat everything in sight.


    She expanded rapidly like a balloon, especially her belly, making her look round all over.


    Xiao Jun had obviously developed "expectant father syndrome", sleeping even worse than Ding Sha. He dreamt every day of Ding Sha suddenly going intobor.


    He looked very worried all the time.


    Ding Sha was a restless person. She called Gong Sister-inw to buy a bag of chestnuts from the door, and that afternoon when they were free, they washed, steamed and peeled chestnuts.


    They were blended with milk in a blender until smooth with no lumps, then mixed into a small pot with honey and butter, and slowly pan-fried over low heat.


    Finally they were pressed into molds to make patterns.


    Fresh steamed chestnut cakes were ready.


    On a cold windy day, eating a piping hot chestnut cake felt like the chill in your chest instantly warming up.


    A small warmer box filled with the sweet chestnut cakes was ced at the store entrance. Not only were the passing children unable to walk by, even the adults picking up kids from school were willing to stop and buy a jin to take home.


    "It''s delicious but tiring," Zhuang Auntie said, massaging her waist, "I get worn out after making just a few jin."


    "Let''s just make it asionally to sell, not regrly. Next time make less, just for ourselves to eat," Ding Sha said, touching the well-behaved Xiao Shitou nibbling on the chestnut cake next to her.


    "I have to go get the order sheets, can''t bete for Le''s ss." Gong Sister-inw packed a few pieces of chestnut cake into a box and hurried off towards City Junior High.


    Ding Sha waited a long time before seeing Gong Sister-inw leading the bruised Si Le back.


    "What happened?" Ding Sha was shocked.


    Xiao Jun also frowned and got up to take out the first aid kit.


    Gong Sister-inw sat Si Le down, "I waited for a while before seeing him sneak over, so I went to get him from the teacher."


    "What happened?" Xiao Jun treated his injuries while asking solemnly.


    Si Le hesitated for a moment, "I was beaten up by a boy from the ss next door."


    "His family runs the cafeteria. Lately everyone''s been ordering meals from me, and not going to the cafeteria anymore, so he came to pick a fight."


    Si Le honestly said, "I can''t beat him, but I scratched his face."


    Ding Sha couldn''t helpughing a little at first from anger, "You should''ve just run if you can''t win."


    Xiao Jun''s actions became gentler, "After you recover, I''ll teach you how to fight."


    "Okay!" Si Le said loudly, clenching his fist.


    Ding Sha couldn''t help but p Xiao Jun, "Why don''t you teach him something nice."


    Xiao Jun said seriously, "I''m teaching him self-defense. Otherwise how will he protect Xiao Shitou in the future? Let alone protect his wife."


    Si Le hurriedly interjected, "I don''t want a wife!"


    Zhuang Auntie was the first one unable to hold back herughter.


    Then Gong Sister-inw and Ding Sha alsoughed.


    Even Xiao Jun revealed a faint smile.


    Xiao Shitou didn''t know what was so funny, butughed along foolishly.


    Si Le scratched his head, "I don''t want a wife."


    He really hadn''t thought about getting married, he was still young!


    Xiao Jun ruffled his short hair, "I''ll go with you tomorrow to talk to your teacher."


    "Ah? Brother Xiao, what are we going for?"


    Xiao Jun smiled.


    "To make trouble."

 Chapter 21: Pickled pepper beef miscella

    <h4>Chapter 21</h4>


    Si Le''s homeroom teacher was a young girl who had just graduated from university a few years ago. Seeing Si Le''s well-behaved appearance usually inexplicably aroused some tenderness in her.


    When she saw Si Lee to school, she specifically called Si Le to the office during break, "How is your injury?"


    Si Le smiled at her, "It''s alright now Teacher Ma."


    He remembered Xiao Jun''s urging, and then said, "Teacher Ma, my brother said he wants toe see youter."


    "Brother?" Teacher Ma was surprised. She remembered that Si Le''s file didn''t say he had a brother.


    Si Le felt strangely excited for some reason. From a young age until now, he had never had a same-sex elder stand up for him at school.


    "Yeah! A really good brother!"


    So during the long break, Teacher Ma saw Si Le''s really good brother.


    He was also exceptionally handsome.


    Teacher Ma couldn''t help but look him over a couple more times.


    Seeing the bald old men at the school every day, suddenly seeing a handsome guy reallyforted her heart...


    "Hello, I''m Xiao Jun, I came because of Si Le," Xiao Jun said straightforwardly.


    Teacher Ma instantly became serious. She became a teacher because she really liked children. Naturally she wouldn''t continue staring at a handsome guy when hearing about serious matters.


    "I opened a small shop in the university town outside, Si Le uses his spare time after school every day to take note of which students in the ss want to order meals and then passes it to us. I pay Si Le a monthly sry," Xiao Jun briefly exined.


    "But yesterday Si Le showed up looking like this," Xiao Jun pointed at Si Le, whose swelling still hadn''t gone down, "Only after asking him for a long time did he tell me he was beaten by the child of the cafeteria contractor."


    "I feel like this matter is quite ridiculous, so I came to see what kind of cafeteria it is that forces people to have to eat there."


    Teacher Ma involuntarily thought about the environment and food at the cafeteria, and couldn''t help but gag.


    She didn''t expect this to be the reason Si Le was injured. After thinking about it, she said, "Si Le''s parent, don''t worry, I will definitely protect Si Le well."


    As she spoke, she had a student who came to hand in homework go call that male student, and also called the homeroom teacher of the male student.


    Xiao Jun looked at the bright-eyed Si Le by his side, knowing that he had probably endured being bullied alone before this. This reminded him of his past self, and he couldn''t help but pat Si Le on the head.


    Back then, he had Sha Sha protecting him, so he would protect this little scallion.


    The male student came very slowly, only ambling inzily after the ss bell had already rung, without even asking to enter. He directly pushed the door open and entered, "Which teacher is looking for me?"


    Zhu Yaozu was the big troublemaker whom all the teachers disliked. He was at the bottom of the ss academically, usually had a hippie smile and loved to bully other students, especially female students. His beady eyes looked lecherous, making people ufortable as soon as they saw him.


    Zhu Yaozu looked around, his gaze locking onto Si Le, "Oh, the little weakling can ask his parents for help now?"


    As he spoke, he nced at Xiao Jun, and said with ill intent, "Is this one of your mom''s little lovers?"


    "Zhu Yaozu!!!" Si Le''s face flushed red.


    Teacher Ma''s expression was also ugly. Zhu Yaozu didn''t take her, a teacher, seriously at all.


    Teacher Zhao happened to enter from the doorway just in time to hear Zhu Yaozu''s words. He was a middle-aged, old-fashioned, and stern teacher who couldn''t stand students spouting some unclear nonsense.


    He paused for a moment, then angrily shouted, "Zhu Yaozu!"


    Zhu Yaozu shivered in fright, even Teacher Zhao the yer came?!


    Teacher Zhao''s expression was gloomy as he walked in. "Grown a mouth just for spewing crap?"


    Zhu Yaozu reluctantly twisted his lips. Teacher Zhao looked towards Teacher Ma, "Little Ma, you were looking for me?"


    Teacher Ma briefly told him about what had happened. Teacher Zhao nced at Xiao Jun and Si Le.


    "That''s enough, it''s just a small matter. Zhu Yaozu, apologize to Si Le. Si Le, don''t do this kind of thing again in the future."


    He said neither lightly nor heavily, "Students should still eat at the school cafeteria. Always eating outside looks bad."


    Xiao Jun''s brow twitched. Was this just glossing things over?


    Si Le''s face flushed red, "Teacher, I didn''t do anything wrong, so why can''t I continue doing this?"


    Teacher Ma was also a bit unhappy. "Teacher Zhao, you haven''t eaten the cafeteria''s food before right?"


    "Whether I''ve eaten it or not, what does it matter? Students should endure hardship and think of sweetness. If they only think of enjoying themselves every day, how will they learn?"


    Teacher Maughed in anger. "You call that enduring hardship and thinking of sweetness? That''s more like pig slop."


    Teacher Zhao''s face lengthened. "Youngrade, you still have to respect your elders!"


    Teacher Ma rolled her eyes.


    Teacher Zhao added, "Hurry up, don''t waste time. ss has started."


    Xiao Jun asked Teacher Ma, "Is your principal here now?"


    Zhu Yaozu still wanted to gloat and couldn''t help but blurt out, "Making a big fuss out of a tiny matter, you''re looking for the principal?"


    Xiao Jun ignored him. Teacher Ma, on the other hand, perked up, "I''ll take you there!"


    Teacher Zhao called out a couple of times, but could only watch as they left without looking back.


    Teacher Ma brought him to the principal''s office. The principal was an elderly man with white at his temples who looked very schrly. He nced up over his sses, "Little Ma? What''s the matter? And who is this?"


    Teacher Ma briefly recounted what had happened to the principal. The principal''s expression became serious.


    "Have that studente see me here, and the teacher shoulde too."


    Teacher Ma swiftly made a phone call.


    It wasn''t long before Teacher Zhao brought Zhu Yaozu in.


    "I''m already clear about this matter," the old principal said straightforwardly. "This student must apologize to Si Le. If something like this happens again, then it''ll be going home for self-reflection."


    Zhu Yaozu still wanted to say something, but in the end could only lower his head and re at Si Le as he reluctantly said sorry.


    "Teacher Zhao, please stay behind. The rest of you can go for now." The principal smiled. He evidently wanted to have a good "talk" with Teacher Zhao.


    Si Le left for ss. Xiao Jun also returned to his small shop.


    There weren''t many people in the shop. Ding Sha was sitting at a table gazing longingly at the entrance waiting for him toe back.


    "Jun!" Seeing him, Ding Sha happily stood up.


    "What''s the matter?"


    "I want to eat spicy beef tripe!" Ding Sha smacked her lips.


    She had suddenly felt like eating spicy beef tripe, but Sister-inw Geng and Aunt Zhuang were watching her even more strictly than each other, not allowing her to cook, so she could only wait here for Xiao Jun to return.


    Xiao Jun rolled up his sleeves and entered the kitchen.


    The pickled peppers were sour and refreshing. He fished them out of the jar, and the refreshing yet numbingly spicy aroma instantly filled the kitchen, impossible to cover up.


    The beef tripe had already been prepared by Aunt Zhuang. Xiao Jun started up the stove and added oil. After the garlic sizzled fragrantly, he added the assorted pickled peppers and tossed them briefly, bringing out even more of the fragrance. Even passersby walking past the door couldn''t help but take a couple deep breaths.


    It smelled so good!


    The beef tripe made a whooshing sound as it entered the wok. Xiao Jun tasted it¡ªthe tripe had been cooked in spices beforehand, and the collision of the pickling liquid''s vors with the peppers brought out aplex sour, spicy, rich aftertaste that made people eager to immediately scoop it over rice and voraciously stuff it in their mouths.


    Ding Sha had already prepared rice and juice for herself, and sat waiting at the table.


    When the aromatic tripe was brought out, the alluring smell made her stomach start rumbling.


    Ding Sha eagerly picked up her chopsticks and began heartily eating.


    Just as she was eating, she suddenly heard from the next table over, "Boss, give me a serving of this too!"

 Chapter 22: Crispy Fried Chicken

    <h4>Chapter 22</h4>


    Ding Sha nced over and saw a male student in his early 20s, wearing sses and holding a selfie stick and phone. When he noticed her looking over, he smiled shyly.


    "Young man, would you like to order some peppery beef tripe?" Gong Sister-inw came over smiling warmly, asking very kindly.


    The young man thought for a moment. "Sister, could I see a menu?"


    Gong Sister-inw handed him a slip of paper.


    Feeling the thin paper, the young man was surprised. This was the menu? It was just a piece of paper!


    The young man hesitated, wondering if he had made the right choice wandering in just following the smells.


    Gong Sister-inw noticed his confusion and exined with a smile, "Our little shop''s menu changes every day, depending on what ingredients the boss sends in the morning."


    "The boss''s wife handwrites the menu each day."


    The young man suddenly understood, scratching his head. It sounded like fun.


    He looked over the menu and said, "Okay... I''ll have an order of peppery beef tripe, crispy fried chicken, and a c."


    Gong Sister-inw quickly memorized the order. "Coming right up! Have a seat, it''ll be ready in no time."


    She headed to the back kitchen.


    The young man adjusted his phone to a good angle and said to the screen, "Alright, now we just wait for the food."


    Ding Sha nced over and saw words flying by densely on the screen. He must be livestreaming.


    The young man was Zhou Fei, a moderately popr food livestreamer. Today he had intended to check in at a wildly popr Western restaurant that was trending online, but he was drawn in by the delicious smells when he got to the door.


    The streamingments were filled withughter.


    "Fei, what happened to the fancy Western ce you talked about? Hahaha!"


    "This shop looks really unique and interesting! I want to know the address."


    "Fei, be honest, isn''t this a staged scene and you''re actually promoting this shop?"


    Zhou Fei quickly exined, "No promos, I really just wandered in following the smells!"


    He showed his other phone with the reservation page for the Western restaurant to prove it to the audience. "I swear if I was doing a promo I''d never get a reservation at Coastline again!"


    Coastline was Zhou Fei''s favorite restaurant that he livestreamed from almost weekly. Seeing him swear on Coastline made the audience even more curious.


    Just how delicious was this little shop?


    Just as they wondered, they saw Zhou Fei sniff the air exaggeratedly. "Friends, it''s starting to smell amazing."


    Right after he said that, Gong Sister-inw came out with a te of peppery beef tripe. "Want me to bring you a bowl of rice?"


    Zhou Fei waved his hand. "No need, this is fine."


    He eagerly grabbed a bite with his chopsticks right away.


    Sure enough, just the smell told him this dish would be delicious.


    The audience watched his blissful expression hungrily.


    "Well, how is it?"


    "What does it taste like, Fei?"


    Zhou Fei carefully savored it before replying. "The peppers are very aromatic, spicy and tingling. The tripe itself has a braised vor, even more rich when stir-fried. The texture is both tender and chewy. Delicious!"


    He took another bite. "So good!"


    Who knew how many viewers swallowed their drool watching.


    When Xiao Jun came out with the crispy fried chicken, the streamingments went silent for a moment, then filled with exmations of "Whoa!"


    "Who''s this hottie??"


    "He can''t be a real person, is this some drama filming on location?"


    "Don''t move the camera! I need to screenshot!"


    Zhou Fei was still confused when Xiao Jun set the chicken down and went to Ding Sha, who was sitting at the next table with food left unfinished because she was full. He poured her a ss of warm water. "All full?"


    Ding Sha rubbed her belly and looked longingly at the tripe left in her te. "I''m full, I feel like I might throw up if I eat more."


    Xiao Jun sat down casually and gave her a peck, then picked up her bowl to finish her leftovers.


    Ding Sha nced at the phone still pointed their way and felt a little embarrassed. "You don''t have to finish it..."


    Xiao Jun coolly nced at Zhou Fei, who finally reacted and pointed his phone camera back at the steaming fried chicken. "Uh, uh, chicken''s getting cold, chicken''s getting cold..."


    The streamingments immediately started mocking Zhou Fei''s cowardice.


    Xiao Jun went on casually chatting with Ding Sha. "Tired? Want to take a nap?"


    Ding Sha silently went to the back room, cradling her belly.


    "And thedy is so pretty too!"


    "Look at her big belly, she must be a little pregnant wife! Are they the boss and boss''s wife? What a good looking couple!"


    "I can''t eat the tripe and chicken, but I just ate dog food!!"


    Zhou Fei pointed the camera back at the fried chicken.


    It was rare unbreaded fried chicken. Zhou Fei picked up a drumstick, fried to a dark golden brown, and smelled the rich meaty aroma.


    He took a gentle bite. Crispy and delicious, the juicy leg meat inside was full of vor, with just the right saltiness. Dipped in the chili powder on the te, the spicy vor was irresistible.


    Way better than KFC.


    Zhou Fei thought to himself as he tore off a piece of breast meat to show the camera. As he ripped it open, the meat fibers still jumped, and a burst of hot fragrant oil briefly filled the air. Looking closely, the meat surface still glistened with ayer of oily sauce.


    A wave of wailing instantly flooded the screen.


    "Oh my god, what sin did Imit to watch you eat fried chicken in thest half hour of myst ss before lunch! I didn''t even eat breakfast!!!"


    "I''m done, I''m drooling! I just ordered fried chicken for lunch!!!"


    "Ahhhhhhh I know this ce! I''m going right now to eat!!!"


    As soon as thatment posted, it set off countless threats from others.


    Especially when they saw Zhou Fei eat without even ncing up or chatting with the stream, the wails andints peaked.


    But some still didn''t believe it could be that delicious, thinking it was an ad.


    "How could it possibly be so good, it''s just fried chicken, isn''t offal all the same taste as long as it''s not fishy?"


    "I followed Fei because he always tells the truth about food, saying directly if something is good or bad. But you''ve changed, doing sponsored reviews now. Wish you the best, unfollowing."


    "Took the shop owner''s money, review over."


    "Must be hyping up the handsome shop owners to try getting into showbiz."


    Fei noticed thesements and blew up.


    "If I did a sponsored review, I''ll tear my head off for you to kick around!"


    Onement immediately replied, "You said it!"


    Fei specifically invited him into video chat. He saw this guy had been jumping around the most excitedly.


    "Yes, I did." Zhou Fei said. "What if you lose?"


    "If I lose? I''ll stream myself eating a keyboard." The man covered his camera, only a male voice could be heard.


    "Good. I''ll DM you the address. Call me when you get here, I want to see how you lose."


    Gong Sister-inw came in with medicine Ding Sha took daily. "There''s a bet going on outside."


    She told Ding Sha what happened and Ding Sha giggled covering her mouth. "I''d love to see how he eats that keyboard."


    "That''ll be easy. Just see if anyone orders fried chicken in a couple days." Ding Shaughed.


    She had absolute confidence in her shop''s food.


    Sure enough, after a few days a man in a suit walked in, looked around, and said straight to Gong Sister-inw, "One order of crispy fried chicken."


    After Gong Sister-inw told Xiao Jun, she rushed to Ding Sha''s room. "He''s here, he''s here! Keyboard''s here!"


    Ding Sha immediately sat up. "Help me up! I still want to watch the show!"

 Chapter 23: Sweet and Sour Ribs

    <h4>Chapter 23</h4>


    The crispy fried chicken was brought to the table. The man first unhurriedly took out a pack of wet wipes from his bag and carefully wiped his hands and the table.


    Then he took out his phone and took several photos of the dishes before taking out a pair of chopsticks from the chopstick holder.


    He picked up a piece of boneless meat and put it in his mouth. The texture that bit down gave him four words in his mind instantly.


    Crispy, fragrant, juicy, tender.


    He was extremely satisfied.


    This piece of meat should be from the chicken breast. Many people would make it dry and tasteless, but this piece was tender and soft, bursting with juice when bitten down.


    He ate up at an unhurried pace, then waved to call Gong Sister-inw over, flipped through the menu over and over again, and ordered a sweet and sour ribs.


    Gong Sister-inw took the order to the kitchen. While scrutinizing the Ding Sha, she murmured, "It doesn''t seem like the keyboard..."


    Just as she was murmuring, she saw the man nonchntly yet elegantly take out a bottle of mouthwash and rinsed his mouth.


    He typed on his phone, stopping from time to time as if editing something.


    The sweet and sour ribs were brought up quickly.


    As usual, Xiao Jun took photos with his phone before picking up a new pair of chopsticks to pick up a piece of caramelized, shiny, oily rib and took a bite.


    The rib was substantial, slightly bigger than those cut at ordinary restaurants. When bitten down, the texture was solid and plump, very satisfying and surprising.


    The vor was moderately sweet and sour. It even had pineapples, not knowing where the pineapples came from this season, but the refreshing, slightly sour taste of the pineapple no doubt added to the dining experience.


    When he tasted the juicy pineapple, it felt very surprising.


    The man steadily finished this dish as well.


    He wiped his mouth and tidied himself up before going to pay at the front desk.


    After settling the bill, he politely exined his purpose.


    "Hello, I''m an editor from a gourmet magazine. I saw your restaurant in Fei''s livestream, so I came specifically to experience it. May I speak with your chef or owner?"


    Zhuang Auntie was stunned for a moment and looked reflexively at Ding Sha who was walking over.


    "Hello, I''m the owner of this restaurant. May I ask what this is regarding?"


    The man repeated his self-introduction, "My name is Hu Zhilin."


    Ding Sha brought him to sit on the stone chairs in the yard.


    "What do you think? How was the meal?" Ding Sha asked Gong Sister-inw to pour a cup of hot water.


    "It was worth the trip." Hu Zhilin''s review was very high.


    Xiao Jun was still busy in the kitchen. Hu Zhilin probably wanted to ask them some questions, so he chatted casually with Ding Sha and waited until Xiao Jun finished to get down to business.


    "I''d like to do a feature on your little restaurant in our magazine, with photos and text together. What do you think?"


    Xiao Jun looked at Ding Sha and thought for a moment, "Okay, but no photos of people."


    Hu Zhilin agreed.


    "I''m very interested in your store name, Ding Sha''s Little Restaurant. It sounds like a lot of thought went into the unique name. Is there any story behind it?" Hu Zhilin took out a voice recorder and turned it on, cing it to the side.


    "Ding Sha is my wife," Xiao Jun''s eyes softened a little. "She has loved cooking since she was little, and has described to me many times what kind of little restaurant she wanted. When we were able to open a restaurant, we definitely wanted to make her wishe true."


    Hu Zhilin smiled. Fine lines appeared at the corners of the refined man''s eyes. Hearing such warm, soft emotions would make anyone unconsciously smile.


    "Are the owner and owner''s wife childhood sweethearts? You seem to have a great rtionship." He eximed.


    "Yes, we grew up together since we were young." Ding Sha held Xiao Jun''s outstretched hand when she heard him say this.


    "What are your signature dishes here?" Hu Zhilin wrote a few notes in his notebook.


    "Ding Sha is the signature dish. With Ding Sha in the restaurant, all the dishes are signature ones." Xiao Jun said.


    Hu Zhilin was stunned for a moment andughed. "Then I''ll have toe try the signature dishes again after the owner''s wife gives birth to a son."


    "You''re most wee."


    The conversation was not very long and ended pleasantly. Xiao Jun and Ding Sha saw Hu Zhilin to the door.


    Hu Zhilin quickly waved his hands, "No need to send me off, I''ll be going now."


    He added, "I''ll send you a copy of the magazine when ites out."


    Ding Sha watched Hu Zhilin''s retreating figure and pulled Xiao Jun''s hand excitedly, "Wow, I''m not dreaming right! A gourmet magazine came to interview us!"


    Xiao Junughed at her exaggerated tone of shock, eyes curving into crescents. He couldn''t help but ruffle her hair a few times, "What''s up? Happy?"


    "Happy!" Ding Sha eximed, "It feels like we''ve been recognized."


    Xiao Jun put his arm around his still ted little wife and went back in. "So happy?"


    "Of course!" Ding Sha couldn''t help but pace around the yard again. "That was a gourmet magazine!"


    "Mm-hmm, gourmet magazine." Xiao Jun followed behind her protectively, responding absentmindedly.


    Ding Sha red back at him and went into the room to sleep.


    Xiao Jun scratched his nose, somewhat guilty as he went to sit at the front cashier counter.


    A kindly, amiable olddy poked her head in, "Oh my, isn''t this the shop opened by little Ding Sha?"


    Xiao Jun looked up to see it was Zhang Granny.


    Zhang Granny also saw Xiao Jun and walked in with a smile, "Little Xiao is here too? Then I must not have the wrong ce. Where''s little Ding Sha?"


    Xiao Jun weed her in to sit down, "Ding Sha is sleeping. She''s pregnant and tires easily."


    Zhang Granny nodded, "That''s all normal. Pregnancy is tiring for women. Don''t find fault with little Ding Sha, boy. She''s carrying your child in her belly and going through such hardship at a young age. You have to cherish her well."


    Xiao Jun nodded, "I definitely will."


    Only then was Zhang Granny satisfied. She took out a small basket from her hand, "I counted the days and figured little Ding Sha would give birth soon. I saved some eggs to bring over for her."


    "Eggs from free-range chickens that run around are much more nutritious than city eggs, right?"


    "Make two eggs for her every day. Let her replenish herself. She must have lost a lot in the early stages. It can''t just be brushed over, or she''ll suffer when she''s older."


    Zhang Granny nagged on and on. When little Ding Sha lived next to her, she would get up early every day to work hard and earn money. She always remembered to give some of the delicious food she made to her little grandchild too.


    So she was willing to dote on little Ding Sha more. This child was so well-behaved and capable, even more likable than her own diligent daughter-inw!


    Xiao Jun poured her a cup of hot water and brought out tasty, easy to digest pastries. "Granny Zhang, please rest a while. I''ll go wake Ding Sha."


    "What are you waking her for?" Zhang Granny admonished as she looked at him. "Pregnant womene first. Let her sleep well."


    "Didn''t I just tell you, she''s the most important now. Why are you waking her?" Zhang Granny seemed to remember something. "Oh right, let me pass along some words from my wife. Listen if you''re willing, or think it over if not."


    "Please go ahead." Xiao Jun pursed his lips.


    "Giving birth is very painful. Don''t let her go through it alone, you hear?" Zhang Granny advised solemnly. "Also, you think it ends after giving birth? Let me tell you, the hard part ising up!"


    "The baby will cry and fuss at night, and in the day too. It needs adults around at all times. Adults have to be attentive and keep a close eye on the baby, or else something bad may happen if you''re not careful."


    "You''ve also opened a restaurant. I feel it would be best if you hire a nanny for Ding Sha, to specifically take care of her and the baby. New mothers are also moody. You have to pay close attention to Ding Sha too, understand?"


    Xiao Jun nodded, "I''ll remember that Granny Zhang. I''ve already started looking at nannies recently. I want to find the most suitable one to take care of Ding Sha."


    "Good, that''s good." Zhang Granny nodded satisfactorily.


    "I should get going. It''s not early and I have to go home to feed chickens and cook. Lots of chores at home!"


    "Let me see you off." Xiao Jun stood up. He had learned to drive quickly and already obtained his license. He was just waiting to pick a car together with Ding Sha.


    "No need, no need. I''ll just take a car myself and head back. No need to see me off." Zhang Granny refused.


    Xiao Jun escorted her to the door. "Even if you won''t let me send you, I still have to head back. Ding Sha wants Uncle Wei to build a crib. I''m going to deliver the blueprints to Uncle Wei."


    Only then did Zhang Granny agree.


    Xiao Jun borrowed a car from the hardware store owner next door and drove back to the Little Vige.


    Zhang Granny sat in the passenger seat praising him, "Not bad, not bad. It''s good to pick up some skills. Only state employees could drive back in our time!"


    After sending Zhang Granny home, Xiao Jun went to Uncle Wei''s house, left the blueprints and requirements, and put down a 200 yuan deposit before driving back to the shop.


    He drove back fast and steady.


    He was worried that Ding Sha would wake up and not find him there.


    Sure enough, as soon as he got out of the car, he saw Ding Sha leaning against the counter at the door, looking around. Seeing hime back, her eyes lit up.


    "You''re back? Where''s Zhang Granny?!"

 Chapter 24: Sweet Baked Potato

    <h4>Chapter 24</h4>


    The moon tonight was exceptionally round.


    The small courtyard was exceptionally quiet as Gong Sister-inw and Zhuang Auntie had already gone to bed.


    Xiao Jun set up a small stove under the porch, and buried in the stove were several long sweet potatoes with soft centers.


    Ding Sha, wrapped in a thick nket, sat on the couch, and Xiao Jun sat beside her as a cushion for her to lean on, with his hand caressing her bulging belly.


    "What do you think we should name the baby?" Ding Sha looked at the quiet withered branches of roses on the courtyard wall, looking forward to their beautiful blooming scene next year.


    Xiao Jun said, "I''ve thought about it for a long time, but I''ve decided to think about it together with you."


    "Let''s call him Xiao Sijin, how about that?" Ding Sha said, "Diligent thoughts are like beautiful jade, and the future will be smooth sailing."


    "Okay, whatever you say," Xiao Jun didn''t object.


    Ding Sha secretly breathed a sigh of relief. In the original book, the male protagonist was not called this name. He probably didn''t have anyone to take care of him since he was little, and it was not untilter when he was sent to the orphanage that he took the surname of the director and was given a random name, Su Li.


    The homonym "li" sounds like always being in farewell.


    Ding Sha wanted to give this child something different from the very beginning, such as a name full of hope and beauty.


    Xiao Jun suddenly said, "What about his nickname?"


    "Nickname?" Ding Sha was startled for a moment, "I haven''t thought about it yet, why don''t youe up with one?"


    "Then let''s call him Ping An," Xiao Jun tilted his head slightly to look at her, "wishing mother and child peace."


    Ding Sha suddenly shrieked, "The baby kicked me!"


    Xiao Jun also felt the movement under his hand, "Maybe he wants toe out and chat with us too."


    "It''s only eight months," Ding Sha gently patted her belly, "Little Ping An, wait a little longer okay? Wait for Dad and Mom to make toys and a little bed for you, okay?"


    A cold wind blew by. After Xiao Jun wrapped Ding Sha tightly in the nket, he leaned over and pulled out a small sweet potato from the stove. The unique fragrance had already diffused out. Ding Sha stared longingly at the sweet potato he was peeling. "It smells so good."


    Xiao Jun seemed unconcerned about the heat as he carefully peeled it and blew on it before bringing it to her mouth, "Be careful, it''s hot."


    Looking at the orange-red sweet potato, Ding Sha took a big bite. It was sweet and hot, as if honey could ooze out.


    "The New Year ising soon," Xiao Jun had wet wipes ready at hand. He took one and wiped the traces on her mouth and cheeks where she got food on her face.


    "Let''s go see the car tomorrow?" Xiao Jun said. "It''s cheaper now right before the New Year. See which one you like?"


    "Simr performance, spacious enough, good safety rating," Ding Sha counted off on her fingers, "cost-effective."


    "Shall we go take a look tomorrow then?"


    "Okay."


    It waste and the wind had picked up. After eating the sweet potato, Ding Sha went back to the room to lie down. Xiao Jun was tired after a long day at work. When he came back, he saw Ding Sha lying there motionless, looking unwell.


    "What''s wrong?" Xiao Jun walked over and lifted the quilt, "Got a leg cramp?"


    Ding Sha shyly covered the quilt. Xiao Jun was startled for a moment, realizing what was going on.


    He opened the wardrobe and took out new pajamas and underwear, then helped Ding Sha up, "Let me help you change."


    Pregnant women inter pregnancy can involuntarily leak urine. This was what the midwife had told him.


    Ding Sha pushed him away, "I''ll do it myself."


    Xiao Jun didn''t insist. He got up and went to the bathroom, "I''ll go freshen up. Call me if you need anything."


    Ding Sha felt embarrassed changing her clothes. When she wanted to change the sheets, she found herselfcking strength.


    She panted with exhaustion and frustration, and finally couldn''t help bursting into tears.


    Hearing the sounds, Xiao Jun immediately rushed out from the bathroom, "Sha Sha!"


    Ding Sha sat at the edge of the bed crying sadly, hugging her belly.


    She didn''t understand why she had be a pregnant woman carrying a baby. She didn''t understand why she had to endure these embarrassing and ufortable experiences.


    Clearly, this world was not hers, the lover was not hers, nothing was hers.


    Even liking Xiao Jun made her feel guilty.


    Even the fact that she liked Xiao Jun made her feel like she was stealing something.


    Ding Sha cried grievously.


    Xiao Jun''s soft consoling and coaxing at her side only made her feel more upset and irritated.


    Unable to restrain herself, Ding Sha pushed Xiao Jun away, "You don''t know anything! Stay away from me!"


    Her cries woke up Gong Sister-inw and Zhuang Auntie who had already gone to bed. The two hurriedly knocked on the door in their winter clothes, "What''s wrong? What happened? Sha Sha? Boss Xiao?"


    As Ding Sha''s due date approached, her weight was very light, so not only could Xiao Jun not sleep well at night, even the two of them could not rest easy, for fear that Ding Sha might suddenly go intobor.


    Xiao Jun replied, "It''s nothing..."


    Ding Sha got out of bed, opened the door and said, "Sister Gong, can I sleep with you?"


    With tears still on her face, wearing only thin clothes, long hair draped loosely, and holding her big belly in both hands, she looked at Sister Gong pitifully.


    "Of course, why not?" Sister Gong readily agreed.


    Xiao Jun hugged his own quilt, "I''ll sleep upstairs. Sister-inw, please keep an extra eye on Sha Sha."


    Sister Gong tutted as she supported Ding Sha back to bed.


    Xiao Jun had already changed the sheets and evenid a mat. With one look, Sister Gong knew what had happened, but she didn''t say anything or ask questions. She let Ding Sha lie down.


    Everyone rested, and the night became tranquil again.


    Ding Sha looked at Sister Gong and felt the sense of security of being back in a mother''s embrace.


    Sister Gong was very gentle. She really liked Sister Gong.


    "Sha Sha, are you still ufortable?" Sister Gong turned sideways and gently patted Ding Sha''s shoulder.


    "I''m fine now. I just suddenly felt a little unhappy for a moment." Ding Sha had calmed down.


    "It''s normal. It happens to everyone," Sister Gong smiled. "I was like that too back then. When Da Zhuang came home, I found him irritating no matter how I looked at him. He was such a big guy, yet he made me cry so hard I didn''t know what to do with my hands and feet. I just flopped down on my knees."


    Ding Sha eximed in surprise, "Wow!"


    "So you see, this is very normal. Pregnant mothers are prone to mood swings, don''t be afraid!"


    Ding Sha wanted to say she wasn''t afraid, but on second thought, she was indeed afraid - afraid of liking Xiao Jun, afraid of difficultbor, afraid the child would not grow up well, and afraid Xiao Jun would leave if he noticed anything off.


    She gave a low hmm.


    "Go to sleep. I''m with you. Tomorrow will be another beautiful day filled with sunshine."


    Sure enough, the weather was great when she woke up, even the little wind that had been blowing steadily had stopped.


    Ding Sha saw Xiao Jun push open the door and ce a set of clean clothes at her bedside. He lowered his head to kiss her forehead, "Be good, Sha Sha. Time to get up. We''re going to buy a car today."


    Ding Sha rubbed her eyes and sat up. Xiao Jun helped her get dressed and then squatted down to put on her shoes. Her feet were badly swollen and she needed special shoes for pregnant women to feelfortable.


    Looking down at him, Ding Sha said, "I''m sorry I lost my temper at youst night."


    "You call that losing your temper?" Xiao Junughed. "That was clearly a kitten showing its ws."


    After getting ready, the two ate a little something and then took a taxi straight to the 4S dealership.


    Ding Sha felt every car was good. She left the salesperson confused with her questions until Xiao Jun took over the conversation, "Let''s go take a look over there."


    The salesperson was a little disappointed, but quickly cheered up again. Even if they didn''t buy an expensive one, he would still get amission for an ordinary car.


    Besides, this handsome couple looked so loving, it brightened his mood just to look at them a little longer.


    With this in mind, the salesperson continued to serve them with a smiling face.


    Finally, Xiao Jun and Ding Sha decided on a suitable white M.


    The salesperson handled the paperwork for them and exined clearly all the subsequent procedures and preparations needed before seeing them off.


    "We''ll pick up the car in a couple days. I''ll go look for a parking spot first," Xiao Jun said as he took Ding Sha to the hospital.


    Lately they had been going to the hospital frequently. Xiao Jun was already discussing with the hospital when Ding Sha would be admitted.


    The expected due date was around the New Year. Xiao Jun couldn''t help feeling a little worried.


    Returning to the shop when it was almost dark, there was an old man sitting inside smoking a pipe.


    It was Uncle Wei who hade.

 Chapter 25: Sichuan Spicy hot Pot

    <h4>Chapter 25</h4>


    ¡°Uncle Wei is here?¡± Ding Sha was a little happy to see him, she had a pile of things she wanted to do.


    Uncle Wei stood up, ¡°Hey, I¡¯m here. Little brother asked me to make a crib, but I ran into some problems, so I came to ask you guys.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter? Did something happen?¡± Ding Sha asked hurriedly.


    ¡°It''s nothing much, just that I got some good materials recently, all good wood, including a kind of cherry wood, very stable and beautiful grain, but a bit expensive. I came to ask if you guys want it or not?¡± Uncle Wei gestured.


    His old friend brought back a batch of wood from the overseas market, iming it was some Chapter 9 level good wood. He didn''t know what level it was, he just knew that this wood, no matter how it looked, felt or knocked, was dense and solid, a good piece of wood.


    Xiao Jun nodded, ¡°We¡¯ll take it, Uncle Wei, just make it.¡±


    Ding Sha also nodded, ¡°Don¡¯t make it too patterned, simple and elegant is good. I''m afraid it would poke the baby.¡±


    Uncle Wei rubbed his hands happily and put away his tobo pouch, ¡°With you guys saying this, I feel reassured. Don''t worry, I¡¯ll definitely use good materials. When it''s done, I¡¯ll bring it to you guys, I guarantee you¡¯ll be satisfied.¡±


    Uncle Wei left eagerly.


    Xiao Jun sent Ding Sha back home and then went out to look for a parking space. He wanted to get everything done as soon as possible, otherwise it would be upsetting if he hadn¡¯t gotten it done when he needed it.


    After two or three days, he rented the parking space, got the license te, and took care of all the paperwork.


    Ding Sha took Gong Sister-inw shopping at the vegetable market, bought a bunch of things and came back wanting to make hot pot for dinner.


    Xiao Jun wasn''t home, so Ding Sha verbally instructed Auntie Zhuang to stir fry the ingredients.


    First, she stewed a pot of beef bone chicken soup in a small pot, simmering it slowly, and the aroma overflowed.


    Then she had Auntie Zhuang prepare some dried chilies cooked in water then chopped, green onion sections, and arge te of green onion and coriander, then wrapped some fragrant leaves, cassia bark, star anise, mer and other spices to soak in liquor and crushed.


    She lit the stove, poured half a pot of beef oil, and when the oil was hot, she first fried the green onions and coriander until fragrant then removed them. Then she added the chili sections, broad bean paste, some secret chili sauce and spices in session, stirred well, then poured in a can of beer and a few rock sugars.


    Finally, she threw in a handful of red and green Sichuan peppercorns.


    After cooling down, in no time, a pot of numbingly spicy and aromatic beef oil base was done.


    After making a mess in the kitchen, even her body was permeated with the smell of the spicy pot.


    Gong Sister-inw washed the ingredients while urging Ding Sha to go back and change her clothes.


    When Ding Sha came out after changing her clothes, she saw Xiao Jun hade back, holding a paper bag in his hand.


    He sniffed, ¡°Smells good, hot pot for dinner tonight?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, hot pot.¡± Ding Sha smiled and went up to meet him.


    Xiao Jun pulled her to sit down and handed her the paper bag.


    "A gift for you."


    "A gift?" Ding Sha asked, unable to hold back the upward curl of her lips.


    "Take a look?" Xiao Jun looked at her expectantly.


    Ding Sha opened the red paper bag and took out a red box. Opening it, it was a green and translucent jade bangle.


    Xiao Jun helped her put it on.


    The snow-white and delicate slender wrist looked especially beautiful with the bangle.


    "Beautiful." Xiao Jun also thought it looked beautiful.


    Ding Sha''s wrist had been bare, which always made him feel ufortable. Now it finally looked right.


    He nned to buy her the peace knot pendant he saw earlier, it would also suit her very well. He would buy it for Sand Sand next time.


    "Dinner, dinner," Gong Sister-inw brought out the yin-yang pot, "Xiao Jun is back!"


    Xiao Jun helped put the induction cooker on the table, "Yeah, just got home."


    "Wash your hands quickly, dinner is ready. I prepared a lot of dishes today..." Gong Sister-inw nagged while going back to the kitchen.


    Ding Sha also stood up, "Let''s go, let''s go! I''m starving!"


    The four of themid out a full table of dishes, yellow throat, pork stomach, spicy beef, te after te was put out, not afraid they couldn''t finish it all. Xiao Jun''s appetite had grown again recently, no matter how much was cooked, he could eat it all with a straight face.


    "Xiao Jun, have you grown taller?" Ding Sha looked up at Xiao Jun''s slender and rugged jaw.


    Xiao Jun lowered his head to look at her, "Don''t know, I haven''t noticed recently."


    "I feel like you''ve grown taller. When you first came back, I could still see your chin, now I have to crane my neck to see it." Ding Sha thought about it.


    "With good food, and at the age of growth spurt, of course you''ll grow taller." Gong Sister-inw threw the spicy beef and pork stomach into the spicy pot.


    "Howe you''re not growing fatter?" Ding Sha looked at Xiao Jun''s face and slender body worriedly, "Do you have worms?"


    "Hahaha, no way, when the height is fully grown, he will naturally gain weight." Auntie Zhuang said with a smile.


    Ding Sha rubbed her nose and lowered her head to eat.


    "I did gain some weight," Xiao Jun said in a low voice, "I only weighed 110 pounds before, now I''m up to 130."


    Ding Sha nced at him, "Better be fatter."


    It wasn''t that she was unhappy seeing him skinny while she was fat!


    "By the way, the New Year ising soon. Sister-inw, are you going back home with Big Brother Zhuang or staying here?" Ding Sha suddenly saw the calendar on the side.


    "We promised the kid to buy him new clothes for the new year," Gong Sister-inw said apologetically, "so we can''t stay with you for the new year."


    "It''s nothing," Ding Sha smiled at her, "You should go home for New Year''s after all!"


    "I guess I''ll let the two brothers stay here for the new year, I don''t expect anything from their mother anyway." Ding Sha added.


    "Whatever you say." Xiao Jun cooked a lot of dishes and meat into the bowl in front of Ding Sha.


    Si Le soon had winter break.


    He carried his school bag and Xiao Shitou and came to the shop very consciously.


    Going home and seeing his mother drunk somewhere again, Si Le expressionlessly tidied up the dirty and messy room, took the sleeping Xiao Shitou and went to the shop.


    Xiao Shitou ate at the shop every day, and had be plump and round, sitting on the side blinking his big watery eyes at people, extremely cute.


    Si Le had also grown taller and stronger. He even felt that every day was no longer filled with fatigue, but pleasantness.


    Early in the morning, he received a parcel in the mail, opened it to see it was a magazine.


    "Xiao Jun! Editor Hu sent the magazine!" Ding Sha shouted happily.


    Xiao Jun came out from the kitchen, "It''s here?"


    "Yeah!" Ding Sha couldn''t wait to look at it with him.


    The interview about the shop was the opening article, with several photos of food and shop decor, followed by arge amount of text.


    It included the interview content and home-style recipes prepared by Editor Hu.


    Ding Sha read it with great interest.


    The interview ended with¡ª


    "I don''t know how others see it, but to me, this is not just a shop with delicious food, but also a shop full of warmth.


    The boss and boss''s wife are loving, the food is delicious, and life is happy too.


    I really like this world."


    Ding Sha couldn''t help but copy this sentence into her notebook.


    Editor Hu also attached a handwritten letter, the characters upright and bold, written with a fountain pen.


    Very ceremonious.


    Just like the modest and refined man himself.


    "Mr. Xiao, Madam,


    The new year is approaching, recently very busy. The magazine has been published, received many calls and letters asking about the shop''s address, the shop is clearly very popr.


    I intend toe again on New Year''s Eve, to shoot and interview the family reunion dinner, may I?


    - Hu Zhilin"


    Ding Sha handed the letter to Xiao Jun.


    Xiao Jun was a little embarrassed, "Sand Sand, your due date is near the end of the year, I''m afraid..."


    Ding Sha touched her belly, "Then let''s decline."


    After all, nothing was bigger to her than the baby in her belly.

 Chapter 26: Dumplings with pork and shepherd’s purse

    <h4>Chapter 26</h4>


    Ding Sha bought a small oven and followed the recipes on her phone to bake small cookies.


    Nanjiang City was quite a big city. As the end of the year approached, more and more people returned home, so there were fewer people in the city.


    The small shops that used to be packed were now more rxed.


    Xiao Jun gave Gong Sister-inw and Zhuang Auntie time off so they could go downtown to buy New Year''s goods.


    The two women happily went out with money in hand, while Ding Sha was still figuring out her butter cookies.


    Xiao Jun loosened the soil in the small vegetable garden in the backyard and added ayer of fertilizer, waiting for the soil to be right before nting vegetables.


    Lifting the thick door curtain between the courtyard and the lobby, a sweet and fragrant smell wafted over.


    Different from the smell of Chinese dishes, this smell made people think of a quiet and leisurely afternoon, sitting under a sunshade with sweet desserts and a cup of tea next to them.


    Lying on thewn and napping away an afternoon felt like a reward.


    Xiao Jun walked over to Ding Sha and saw her carefully watching the swelling cookies in the oven. "Smells so good."


    Ding Sha nodded. "I made a lot. I''ll give some to Sister-inw and the otherster, and if I have time I''ll take some back for Granny Zhang and Uncle Wei. We can eat the rest ourselves."


    Xiao Jun cleaned up the mess on her table. "Okay, let''s go buy small bags when Sister-inwes back?"


    Ding Sha nodded.


    Xiao Jun went to the backyard again. Lately he had been busy with something, but kept it secret. Ding Sha couldn''t even see him at night when they went to bed.


    Ding Sha frowned.


    One day she would find out what he was up to!


    It was dark when Gong Sister-inw and Zhuang Auntie finally came back grinning from ear to ear with bags in their hands.


    "It''s true the sales before New Year are really cheap. I bought so many things!" Gong Sister-inw''s usual tranquil face also showed some brightness.


    Zhuang Auntie rummaged through a stic bag. "Passing by the market, I bought some water spinach. It''s not the season, but there was actually fresh water spinach. How strange."


    "But it looked good to me, so I bought some to bring back," said Zhuang Auntie with a heartyugh. "Let''s wrap dumplings for dinner tonight."


    They really hadn''t eaten dumplings in a long time. Xiao Jun started making the dough. He loved flour foods and often made dough, so he knew how to make good dough that was smooth and stic.


    He covered it and set it aside after kneading.


    Zhuang Auntie went to prepare the filling, rinsing the water spinach without soaking it - that would make it lose vor.


    She added the right amount of soy sauce, salt and pepper to the pork filling, with some MSG and soy sauce, then a bit of sugar.


    After mixing it well with her hands and mming it in the basin until the meat was soft and sticky, she added fried onions and finely chopped ginger.


    The chopped water spinach was salt-soaked to remove moisture, then added to the meat filling.


    After mixing evenly, the tempting dumpling filling was ready.


    Xiao Jun also rolled out the dough into thin strips and small pieces for the wrappers.


    Thicker in the middle and thinner on the edges, pinch them into one dumpling at a time. The white plump dumplings sat on the tray.


    The three of them worked together to wrap them while Ding Sha watched.


    They boiled three trays of dumplings in water with some salt, not even fitting in one pot.


    The white fat dumplings had thin skins and tender filling. Biting into one, you could see the crisp water spinach inside, like a small meatball. The properly salty and aromatic filling was delicious and addicting.


    Ding Sha ate an astonishing twenty or more, making Xiao Jun afraid she ate a whole tray''s worth.


    Gong Sister-inw spoke proudly, "My auntie''s dumpling wrapping skill is acimed within ten miles."


    Ding Sha reluctantly looked at the voraciously eating Xiao Jun. She really couldn''t eat any more or she''d feel sick.


    "Auntie, do you want to sell dumplings at the shop after New Year?" Ding Sha asked her. "I''ll give you a chef''s sry."


    Zhuang Auntie was surprised for a moment. "Is that okay?"


    "Of course," Ding Sha smiled. "Your dumplings are so delicious!"


    Zhuang Auntie agreed without much hesitation.


    The next day, Uncle Wei brought over a crib on his cart, the light wood grain very soothing to the eye. The crib was also made ording to Xiao Jun''s design, precise down to thest detail.


    Uncle Wei had even thoughtfully made the crib base dual-purpose, able to stand fixed on the floor or arched up into a rocking crib.


    Ding Sha loved this crib very much.


    Uncle Wei had also made many lovely toys, little horses, dragonflies, and bunnies, each vivid and lifelike.


    He said they were made from leftover materials and worthless, so consider them gifts.


    But Ding Sha paid him fully for the crib and toys. Uncle Wei was a little embarrassed epting it. "Alright, I won''t haggle with you. If you need anything else made in the future, I''ll give you a discount."


    Ding Sha happily agreed.


    Uncle Wei happily left, smoking his pipe and pulling his cart. Ding Sha couldn''t bear to part from the little crib and ced it right next to her bed.


    She couldn''t help but imagine little Ping''an lying inside ying with his little feet.


    A counter was ced at the entrance of the shop, filled with all kinds of snacks and pastries Ding Sha made in her spare time. Customers leaving would be drawn to bring some along.


    A sprightly old man with white hair walked in with his hands behind his back. His face showed traces of worry as he sat straight on a stool, not bothering to look around.


    Gong Sister-inw handed him a menu, but before he could speak, his phone rang.


    The old man took it out, sighed when he saw the note, and answered, "Hello? What is it?"


    "I''m fine, I''m great, I just went out for a walk..."


    "I''ll be back soon, after I eat I''lle back..."


    "Don''t worry..."


    After a few sentences he hung up, and looked at the very simr father and son photo on the table, shaking his head with a sigh.


    "Sir, what would you like to eat?"


    "Let me see, just get me something simple," the old man flipped through the menu. "Do you have noodles?"


    "We do," Gong Sister-inw said. "What kind of noodles would you like?"


    The old man looked up at her in surprise. "You can make anything?"


    "Mostmon ones we can make." Gong Sister-inw had no doubts about Xiao Jun''s cooking skills.


    And if that failed, Ding Sha was still there!


    The old man''s interest was piqued. Anything goes, not bad.


    He knitted his brows in thought. "Then get me a te of zhacai noodles, can you make that?"


    Gong Sister-inw responded in surprise. "We can, please wait a moment!"


    The old man used a napkin to wipe the chopsticks from the container, patiently cing them properly, before looking around at the interior design of the shop.


    The decor and environment were quite nice. The old man looked around but didn''t see any oil stains, which satisfied him somewhat.


    But his expectations for the chef had risen even more.


    Zhacai noodles took skill to make well. He was rather curious to see if this random little shop could really make good zhacai noodles.

 Chapter 27: Old Beijing fried sauce Noodles

    <h4>Chapter 27</h4>


    The old man''s face was very kind, as he had aged and his face was withered, the flesh on his cheeks sagged down a little, like aughing Maitreya Buddha statue.


    He looked expectantly at the door curtain where Gong Sister-inw had juste out, muttering to himself, "This fried sauce noodles is exquisite, authentic old Beijing fried sauce noodles. Eating the noodles is not just about the noodles themselves, it''splicated..."


    Just as he was speaking, Zhuang Auntie called Gong Sister-inw to serve the dishes.


    Lifting the curtain, Gong Sister-inw carried a ratherrge tray and walked out.


    On the tray were several bowls and dishes. She poured a pot of water for the old man afterying out each dish, then Gong Sister-inw went back to the kitchen to do her own thing.


    The old gentleman couldn''t wait to pick up his chopsticks first and look at the fried sauce served separately in a bowl. The oil was smooth and fragrant, "Wow, green onion and pork fried sauce, not bad, smells so good!"


    Saying that, he dipped a little with his chopsticks and put it in his mouth, "Delicious!"


    He poured the sauce into the noodle bowl. The noodles were neither too thick nor too thin, and you could tell they were handmade noodles just by looking at them.


    The neatly arranged side dishes included cucumber shreds, radish shreds, eggs and shrimp, and the essential yellow beans, all of which he dumped into the big noodle bowl and mixed.


    The old gentleman couldn''t wait to pick up a big mouthful and stuff it into his mouth, "The meat is fragrant, the green onions are also fragrant, and the sauce is the most fragrant!"


    He ate very boldly, eating with his head down, looking very happy.


    Gong Sister-inw couldn''t help but lift the curtain and ask Zhuang Auntie when she heard the slurping sounds, "Let''s have fried sauce noodles for dinner tonight too. This old gentleman really seems to enjoy it!"


    Zhuang Auntie smiled and said, "Xiao still has plenty of sauce left, go ahead and make noodles for yourself to eat at night."


    The old gentleman''s mouth was full of oil by the time he finally stopped eating, "It really was delicious!"


    He called Gong Sister-inw, "Little sister, can I meet the chef here?"


    Gong Sister-inw scratched her head, "Please wait, I''ll ask the boss."


    After she left, the old gentleman waited happily in ce. He reckoned that this boss must be a chef with decades of cooking experience, he just didn''t know why he would be hiding his identity and running a shop in this small ce...


    Could it be that he had encountered... Eh?


    The old gentleman was stunned when he saw Xiao Jun walk out.


    Xiao Jun was also a little confused. He heard from Gong Sister-inw that the old gentleman enjoyed the meal, so why did he suddenly ask to see him?


    "Is there anything wrong with the noodles?" Xiao Jun looked at the neatly arranged empty bowls on the table, "Did you find anything unsatisfactory as you ate?"


    "Young boss, did you make this noodle?" The old man asked in disbelief.


    In his imagination, a chef with decades of experience had suddenly turned into a handsome young man, and he was a little slow to react...


    "Yes, I made it." Xiao Jun nodded.


    Ding Sha also heard themotion and walked out from the back, "What''s the matter? Jun?"


    The old gentleman was startled when he saw the girl with a bulging belly, "Oh, take it easy, sit down..."


    Xiao Jun helped her sit down, "It''s okay."


    The old gentleman breathed a sigh of relief, "I just thought the noodles were authentic, and wanted to meet the chef. I thought he would be a fellow townsman and old friend... didn''t expect the young man to be so young..."


    Xiao Jun was relieved that he didn''te to find him because there was a problem with the food, "As long as you enjoyed the meal, that''s good."


    "Young boss, can you make other Beijing dishes?" The old gentleman rubbed his hands, "I''m too old to travel far, but I still crave the taste. I haven''t had such authentic Beijing cuisine in Nanjiang..."


    Xiao Jun thought for a moment, "What else would you like?"


    "Roast duck!" The old gentleman said immediately.


    Xiao Jun: "..."


    The old gentleman reacted and rubbed his hands awkwardly, "Or pancakes and crispy pork slices would do too, best with some rice noodle rolls..."


    Xiao Jun thought about it, they weren''t difficult to make either, "Come again another day, I''ll make them for you, but with your age, ordering all this fatty meat, aren''t you worried about the three highs?"


    The old gentleman paused and thought of his wife''s reminder at home, feeling a little guilty, "I won''t... eat it all in one day..."


    Xiao Jun knew exactly what was going on, "Okay. Come once every few days, I''ll make it for you, but not every day."


    "No problem, no problem," the old gentleman was very happy, "next time I''ll bring my wife toe together."


    The old gentleman paid the bill and left humming happily.


    Outside, the sky was misty, as if it was going to snow.


    Seeing people passing by the door coughing and sneezing from the cold, Ding Sha said worriedly, "It''s getting colder, many people have caught colds..."


    Xiao Jun couldn''t help but hug her a little tighter, "Well, I''ll make some ginger soup with brown sugar and have it ready in the lobby for customers to have a bowl to ward off the chill."


    Ding Sha touched his forehead, "Drink more yourself, don''t get sick."


    Xiao Jun held her hand, "I won''t get sick, I promise you."


    Ding Shaughed at him, "You say you won''t get sick, so you won''t get sick?"


    Xiao Jun also smiled lightly, "Yes, what I say goes. By your side, I''ll never get sick."


    ording to experience, saying things too confidently will lead to getting pped in the face. Not a few days after Xiao Jun said this, he fell ill aggressively.


    Lying in bed with blurred eyes, a red nose, he couldn''t even see clearly.


    Ding Sha kept watch at his side, not knowing whether to be worried or mock him.


    The shop closed temporarily.


    Zhuang Auntie was now fully responsible for the meals of several people. With her bulging belly, Ding Sha couldn''t even take care of Xiao Jun.


    At night, in a muddle-headed state, Xiao Jun asked for water. After sitting up, he couldn''t even stand steadily. With great effort, Ding Sha got up from the bed to pour him water.


    After drinking a couple sips, Xiao Jun was a little more clear-headed. Seeing Ding Sha standing there in her pajamas in front of the bed, he asked "Cold?"


    He lifted the quilt, "It''s warm inside."


    Drowsy, Ding Sha crawled in without thinking anything.


    Xiao Jun casually put the cup on the bedside table andy down too, tucking Ding Sha in and hugging her from behind as he fell asleep.


    When Ding Sha woke up, she felt the quilt was warm. Usually every morning when she woke up, the quilt would be icy cold, making her reluctant to get out of bed even if she wanted to.


    She moved her feet, then moved her arms, before realizing her feet were enveloped by a pair of big feet, and her belly was gently covered by a pair of hands.


    Her mind nked for a second before Ding Sha realized she was lying in Xiao Jun''s bed. As she gradually woke up, her memories also gradually surfaced. She recalled that in her sleepy statest night, she hadin down in the quilt following Xiao Jun''s words.


    At that moment, Ding Sha really wished she could go back tost night.


    Having just moved a little, Xiao Jun woke up too.


    He lifted his hands to help Ding Sha lie t, "Is this okay? Does it feel too cramped?"


    "It''s fine." Ding Sha said.


    In fact, no matter which position she was in, she felt ufortable inte pregnancy. It was just a matter of which affected her less.


    Xiao Jun still had a bit of a headache. He gently covered his mouth and nose, "Let me help you up in a bit, remember to drink some ginger soup instead of taking medicine."


    He was a little angry with himself, how could he have hazily allowed such close contact between Ding Sha and himself? What if he passed the infection to her?

 Chapter 28: Family Photo of Assorted Casserole

    <h4>Chapter 28</h4>


    When Ding Sha came out, Gong Sister-inw had just finished calling Da Zhuang on the phone. Zhuang Auntie was watching TV. The female host wearing a shirt on the news channel was reporting today''s news with a serious expression.


    Zhuang Auntie quickly moved a stool over with a cushion on it when she saw Ding Shae out, "You''re up? How is Xiao Jun doing? Any better?"


    "Much better, his fever''s gone down." Ding Sha sat down.


    "That''s good. Want some buns? I made them this morning and they''re still warm," Zhuang Auntie asked.


    "Sure, I''ll have some," Ding Sha nodded.


    Zhuang Auntie went to get the buns for her while Gong Sister-inw let out a sigh, "It''s got everyone on edge, really scary."


    "What happened?" Ding Sha asked.


    "Well, the news this morning," she said with another sigh, "The government is telling us to be more careful, pay attention to rest and daily hygiene."


    "I was just telling Da Zhuang about it but he''s stubborn as an ox. He got impatient when I told him to take care of himself, how annoying..."


    Zhuang Auntie brought out a bowl, "Don''t argue with him. You''ll only get yourself worked up while he remains oblivious that you''re angry. That''ll just stress you out."


    Gong Sister-inw scoffed, "I won''t bother with him. He can do whatever he wants."


    Xiao Jun was sleeping inside. He hadn''t eaten much for days and had visibly lost weight. Ding Sha felt sorry seeing how thin he''d be. She got up and went to take a look in the kitchen.


    "Auntie, did the vegetable seller deliver this morning?"


    "They did, I''ve put everything away," Zhuang Auntie followed her in, "Going to cook?"


    Ding Sha nodded, "Jun hasn''t been eating these past few days. I''m worried he won''t have enough strength and nutrition to recover."


    Zhuang Auntie murmured in agreement, "Then leave it to me, I''ll cook."


    Ding Sha moved to the side to give her space.


    "Cut some pork belly, pig''s stomach and chicken, put it in a pot with scallions, ginger, huangjiu and bring it to a boil, remember to skim off the foam."


    "Cook the chicken for half an hour, the pork belly for about forty minutes, pig''s stomach takes longer to soften so cook it for over an hour."


    "Once cooked, take them out and cut into smaller pieces to set aside."


    "Take some ground pork, mix in chopped scallions, ginger, pepper powder, salt, huangjiu and a bit of starch and water. Keep stirring it all vigorously in one direction."


    "Oil a te, squeeze the ground pork into balls and put them on it. Then steam them until cooked."


    "Also steam those shrimp wontons we madest time."


    "nch some spinach leaves in boiling water until soft. Put them in the ypot to line the bottom along with some soaked ss noodles."


    "Steam somerge dried shrimp with huangjiu and scallions, ginger until cooked through and add them to the ypot."


    "Beat two eggs into thin sheets, shred them and put them in as well."


    "This will be so fragrant when it''s done," Zhuang Auntie remarked as she worked quickly. "Light and healthy, perfect for Xiao Jun to recover his strength."


    Ding Sha came over to look in the ypot, "Remember to mix everything together evenlyter."


    "No problem."


    "Now for the vegetables - cut carrots, bamboo shoots, winter bamboo shoots into strips. Do the same with the mushrooms. Arrange them neatly in rows in the ypot along with the prepped meat. Add the steamed meatballs and shrimp wontons."


    "Pour in some seasoned chicken broth. Bring it to a boil with the lid on then turn the heat down and let it simmer. You can eat straight from the ypot as it bubbles."


    It was close to noon by the time everything was ready. Zhuang Auntie remarked with feeling, "This meal took so much effort to make, fussy andplicated."


    "But it smells amazing, the aroma alone makes you hungry."


    Ding Sha took a small bowl with a lid, "I''ll bring some to Jun. You two go ahead and eat first, don''t wait for me. I''m not hungry."


    Xiao Jun was already sitting up when she opened the door. "You cooked? I could smell it."


    "No, I just told Auntie to make it," Ding Sha closed the door and put the bowl on the table. "Want to try it?"


    Xiao Jun got out of bed, draping a robe around himself, "Smells great, mixed ypot?"


    "You sure know your food." Ding Sha smiled.


    After eating the steaming hot meal, Xiao Jun broke out in sweat.


    "Go lie down again, you''ll feel better after more rest," Ding Sha hurried him back.


    Xiao Jun had no choice, "Alright, I''ll sleep. But call me if you need anything."


    "I know, I know." Ding Sha watched him get settled before leaving the room.


    Two to three dayster, fewer and fewer people were going out unless necessary. Anyone who did venture out looked anxious.


    Gong Sister-inw still called Da Zhuang every day. Seeing how serious things were getting, Da Zhuang obediently reported his status daily.


    Zhuang Auntie watched the news on time, "Heavens, still so bad even with New Year''sing... How awful."


    The busiest ces now were likely pharmacies and hospitals. Word was doctors and nurses were run off their feet without even breaks.


    "Sister-inw, why don''t you two go back home tomorrow?" Ding Sha figured they must be anxious to return.


    "Go back for what? I wouldn''t feel right leaving you and Xiao Jun alone here," Zhuang Auntie red at her. "It''d be one thing during normal times but this is an extraordinary period. You two shouldn''t be without someone here."


    "I''m not going back either," Gong Sister-inw said. "It''s safer to stay put. Going anywhere makes me nervous."


    Ding Sha didn''t try persuading them further since they were right. Luckily Jun''s fever had gone down the past few days, though he was still a bit under the weather without needing hospitalization.


    Zhuang Auntie checked the time, "Oh dear, time to start on dinner again when I don''t have any appetite at all."


    "Each day it''s just cooking on schedule without much else going on. Luckily we have the yard here or I''d go crazy cooped up."


    "What should we eat tonight?" Gong Sister-inw asked with a smile. With so much free timetely, Zhuang Auntie had even pondered roastingmb legs in the small yard.


    "Let''s just whip up whatever. I see everyone online has been making hot and sour souptely. Why don''t we try that too?"


    "Let''s do it. I''ll leave it to you." Gong Sister-inw also had little interest in eating. Eating without moving around was causing her to gain weight.


    "Alright, on it."


    Zhuang Auntie hadn''t gotten up yet when she saw Ding Sha''s expression shift. "What''s wrong, Sha Sha?"


    Ding Sha had felt a bit ufortable since getting up that morning. She''d noticed on and off abdominal pain since the afternoon. Just then, she suddenly felt a warm liquid flow down her leg.


    She recalled the doctor and midwife''s reminders during her prenatal exams, and her face paled.


    "I think my water broke..."

 Chapter 29: Mom Hooves 01

    <h4>Chapter 29</h4>


    Gong Sister-inw jumped up in shock, "My water broke?"


    Zhuang Auntie hurried over, lifted up her skirt, "Let me take a look..."


    After a while she looked up, "Cui''er, call 120."


    "The amniotic fluid broke..."


    Gong Sister-inw''s face was as white as paper, "This...this..."


    She hurried to open her phone and dialed 120, but was busy for a long time.


    "What should we do now? Can''t get through!"


    She was anxiously pacing around.


    Whether it was psychological or not, after hearing from Zhuang Auntie that her water indeed broke, Ding Sha suddenly felt the pain be more pronounced.


    She was shaking from the pain, "Sister-inw...sister-inw, take my phone and go, there is a doctor''s number for the maternity hospital in my phone, call her..."


    "Oh, oh, I''ll go right away!" Gong Sister-inw hurriedly ran to Ding Sha''s bedroom.


    "Sha Sha, don''t be nervous..." Zhuang Auntie held Ding Sha''s hand tofort her.


    Perhaps because she was overly nervous, Ding Sha started bleeding.


    Xiao Jun saw Gong Sister-inw rush in with a pale face and sweat beading on her forehead, "What''s wrong sister-inw? Did something happen?"


    "Is Sha Sha''s phone here?" Gong Sister-inw didn''t have time to exin.


    "It''s over there." Xiao Jun pointed to the bedside table, "What happened?"


    After Gong Sister-inw took the phone, she hurried out. Hearing Xiao Jun''s question, she trembled a little, "Little Xiao, Sha Sha''s water broke..."


    Xiao Jun was like being hit on the head with a club, "It''s...it''s not the due date yet..."


    He got up from the bed, Gong Sister-inw hurriedly stopped him, "Don''te out, little Xiao, you are still isting, what if Sha Sha gets sick too..."


    Xiao Jun froze in ce, blinking as if digesting Gong Sister-inw''s words, "I...I can''t go out..."


    Xiao Jun, who was always opinionated and seemed impossible to stump, for the first time in front of her was like a helpless child, with red-rimmed eyes asking her, "Then I...what should I...I..."


    He wanted to ask what he could do, he wanted to ask what he should do, he wanted to ask how Sha Sha was...


    But when it came to his lips, he didn''t know how to ask.


    Gong Sister-inw felt a little heartache, "I and auntie will definitely take good care of Sha Sha, don''t worry too much."


    She closed the door and left.


    In fact, she was not confident in her heart either.


    All the hospitals were overcrowded, and just knowing that emergency calls could not get through showed how difficult the hospital situation was.


    Ding Sha took the phone and took deep breaths while dialing the doctor''s number. She dialed several times but no one answered.


    "She must be busy..." Ding Sha said, still continuously dialing.


    At the maternity hospital, a little nurse ran to the doctor who had juste out of the ward, "Dr. Liu, your phone has been ringing for a long time."


    Dr. Liu was drenched in sweat, looking rather tired, "Who was calling?"


    The little nurse said, "It seems to be a pregnant woman, probably one you did prenatal exams for before."


    Dr. Liu paused, having a bad premonition in her heart, "Has it been ringing nonstop?"


    "Ringing nonstop." The little nurse nodded.


    Dr. Liu walked briskly back to the office, opened the drawer, and saw a series of missed calls on her phone. Before she could call back, the phone rang again.


    She immediately picked up, "Hello? This is Liu Li speaking."


    "Dr. Liu, this is Ding Sha," Ding Sha breathed a sigh of relief, "My water broke..."


    Dr. Liu knew the situation she least wanted to see had happened.


    "How are you now? Are you having contractions?" Dr. Liu quickly asked some questions and had the little nurse check the situation in the delivery room and wards.


    Now all medical resources were scarce, she couldn''t guarantee Ding Sha coulde and give birth as smoothly as before.


    "It''s been painful since this morning..." Ding Sha endured the pain to report her condition to her.


    "Take it easy, breathe deeply, don''t panic," Dr. Liu soothed, "Is there anyone with you? If so, pass the phone to them."


    "Yes, my sister-inw and auntie are here," Ding Sha handed the phone to Zhuang Auntie.


    "Hello, doctor," Zhuang Auntie took the call.


    "How is the pregnant woman''s condition now?" Dr. Liu immediately asked some questions.


    Zhuang Auntie answered them one by one. Finally, covering the phone, she whispered, "Doctor, Sha Sha is bleeding."


    Dr. Liu was shocked, "Bleeding?"


    This situation couldn''t be dyed any longer. Dying further would be bad for both the child and mother. Dr. Liu made a decisive decision, "Can you find a car? Take precautions,e to the hospital immediately."


    Zhuang Auntie was stunned for a moment. The only one who could drive was still isting in bed...


    "Auntie..." Ding Sha saw her nce back, "What''s wrong?"


    "Dr. Liu said to go to the hospital now," Zhuang Auntie replied, "But little Xiao, he..."


    Ding Sha gritted her teeth. She could feel the pain bing more frequent and prolonged. The physical pain and wetness made her fearful every moment.


    She had to safely deliver this child.


    Ding Sha gritted her teeth, "I''ll drive."


    "What?!" Gong Sister-inw eximed, "How can that be?! You''re about to give birth!"


    "There''s no other way, there''s not a car on the street." Now even if people are unwilling to run to the hospital," Ding Sha leaned on the table to stand up, "We have to hurry, I can''t hold on much longer."


    "Sha Sha!" Xiao Jun''s voice came from behind the curtain.


    "I''m fine," Ding Sha tried to keep her voice rxed, "I''m just going to have the baby, to bring little PingAn into this world safely..."


    "I...I..." Xiao Jun really wanted to say I''ll go with you, I''ll take you there, we''ll go together.


    He imagined countless times being by Ding Sha''s side in the delivery room as she gave birth. He thought about kissing Ding Sha when the child was born, telling her the child would always rank second in his heart.


    She was number one.


    But...


    But now he couldn''t even step out this door.


    He couldn''t take her to the hospital, couldn''t be with her.


    He had abandoned her alone again at such a helpless moment.


    Ding Sha leaned on her belly and walked to the curtain, didn''t open it, just gently said, "Be good, wait for me and little PingAn toe back safely."


    "When I get back, make me sweet potato noodles okay? I really want to eat it."


    "Okay." Xiao Jun''s voice was choked with sobs as he agreed.


    "Then I''m going now," Ding Sha said, "see you soon."


    Gong Sister-inw took the car keys, and Zhuang Auntie gathered everything needed at top speed, dumping it all into arge bag and throwing it into the back seat.


    Ding Sha buckled her seatbelt, "Luckily it''s not far..."


    She endured the increasingly obvious and intense pain. Soon, her inner thighs and legs werepletely soaked through her thermal pants, and the car seats were soaked in blood.


    Gong Sister-inw was so anxious her eyes were red.


    The streets were empty, Ding Sha drove with difficulty towards the maternity hospital.


    At the hospital entrance, fully equipped Dr. Liu and little nurse were anxiously waiting with a gurney.


    "Is the delivery room and ward ready?"


    "We were able to clear a delivery room for one hour, but couldn''t get a ward." The little nurse said helplessly.


    "The hallways are all filled with patients too."


    Dr. Liu thought for a moment, "Push her to my office then, it can''t be anywhere else."


    "Hope this delivery goes smoothly." Dr. Liu tried to ignore the lingering unease in her heart.


    Soon the car arrived.


    As soon as the car stopped, Dr. Liu went up to it, "Where''s the pregnant woman? Where is she?"


    Ding Sha undid her seatbelt and opened the door, "I''m...I''m here..."


    Dr. Liu was shocked, "You drove the car?!"


    She hurriedly worked with the others to lift Ding Sha onto the gurney.


    Ding Sha stuffed the bloodstained bank card into Gong Sister-inw''s hand, "There''s 20,000 yuan in this card, the password is 622627... ask Jun for more if it''s not enough..."


    Her hand went limp as soon as she finished speaking.


    Seeing this, Dr. Liu hurriedly pushed her into the hospital, "The pregnant woman has fainted!"

 Chapter 30: Mother Hooves 02

    <h4>Chapter 30</h4>


    ¡°Doctor Liu! The fetal position is abnormal!¡± The midwife was already stationed in the delivery room, so as soon as Ding Sha was pushed in, she began examining her condition.


    Doctor Liu¡¯s heart skipped a beat, ¡°Did you find her medical records?¡±


    The little nurse took out a thick medical file, ¡°Got it. Herst prenatal exam before the flu was still normal.¡±


    ¡°Then the change must have happened in the past few months,¡± Doctor Liu felt Ding Sha¡¯s belly.


    ¡°Prepare for a C-section.¡±


    ¡°Her husband didn''te. He''s quarantining at home,¡± the little nurse looked embarrassed, ¡°There are her employees outside.¡±


    ¡°Do the routine checks first. Get in line,¡± Doctor Liu didn''t stop working, ¡°Prepare the ultrasound and fetal heart monitor.¡±


    ¡°Her water broke early,¡± Doctor Liu said, ¡°If we drag on too long the baby will suffocate.¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± The midwife and nurse responded in unison.


    They knew the severity of the situation and immediately started busying themselves.


    Gong Sister-inw and Zhuang Auntie waited anxiously in the crowded hallway, dripping with sweat. Gong Sister-inw¡¯s phone rang, it was Xiao Jun calling.


    ¡°Hello, Xiao Jun. Don''t worry. She''s already been taken into the delivery room. Doctor Liu and the others are all there,¡± Gong Sister-inw hurried to reassure him.


    Xiao Jun was anxiously pacing around at home. His hands and lips were trembling.


    He didn''t dare imagine what Ding Sha looked like giving birth in the delivery room.


    Hearing Gong Sister-inw¡¯s words calmed him down a little, but he still repeatedly urged, ¡°Call me if anythinges up.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Gong Sister-inw simply didn''t hang up the phone, keeping it in hand for convenience in talking to Xiao Jun.


    The doctors and midwives were running around, so busy that their protective goggles fogged up.


    Finally, all the checks werepleted. Doctor Liu shook her head and wiped away the stinging sweat from her eyshes.


    ¡°The baby is in an abnormal position. We have to do a C-section now,¡± Doctor Liu told Gong Sister-inw in the fastest speed, ¡°We have to get the baby out as soon as possible. Her water broke already. The baby could suffocate at any time.¡±


    Doctor Liu''s words were ryed word for word into Xiao Jun''s ears over the phone. He hurriedly shouted, ¡°Doctor! Doctor Liu!¡±


    Gong Sister-inw handed the phone to Doctor Liu.


    ¡°Hello? This is Liu Li.¡±


    ¡°Doctor Liu, I''m Ding Sha¡¯s husband,¡± Xiao Jun said urgently, ¡°Record what I''m about to say. I entrust Ding Sha''s care to you. If anything happens, you must save Ding Sha!¡±


    He could do without the child, but he couldn''t be without Ding Sha.


    The family he envisioned required Ding Sha.


    ¡°Alright, I understand,¡± Doctor Liu was startled for a moment, ¡°But rest assured, if we can save both the mother and child we will definitely do our best.¡±


    After saying this she went into the delivery room.


    Xiao Jun didn''t say anything more. He sat on a stool with his heart pounding violently, his mind thundering as if struck by lightning. His whole body convulsed as if electrically shocked.


    He was afraid.


    Ding Shay unconscious on the operating table, an IV drip inserted in her arm, connected to various medical devices.


    Doctor Liu looked at the midwife, ¡°Let¡¯s begin.¡±


    The midwife nodded and exposed Ding Sha¡¯s belly.


    The operationmenced. The little nurse concentrated at the ready, closely monitoring the equipment and patient¡¯s status.


    Gong Sister-inw and Zhuang Auntie tightly sped hands as they stared at the delivery room door.


    One after another, gurneys draped in white sheets were wheeled past them. Gong Sister-inw knew they bore the departed.


    Grief-stricken families followed behind. The crowded hallway couldn¡¯t contain the highs and lows of humanity.


    Gong Sister-inw couldn¡¯t help but wipe away some tears. Zhuang Auntie grabbed her hand, ¡°Don¡¯t cry, be careful of infection.¡±


    Gong Sister-inw sighed, ¡°I just feel...sigh, it¡¯s too difficult.¡±


    ¡°How did ite to this?¡±


    The red light at the delivery room door remained lit.


    ¡°I see the baby,¡± the midwife said, ¡°Not good - the umbilical cord is wrapped around its neck.¡±


    Doctor Liu frowned, ¡°Get the baby out as quickly as possible.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± The midwife immediately started working.


    ¡°Doctor, the mother¡¯s heart rate and blood pressure are rapidly dropping!¡±


    ¡°Push epinephrine!¡± Doctor Liu ordered.


    ¡°Yes!¡± The little nurse nimbly injected it into the IV.


    ¡°It''s eased.¡±


    ¡°The speed still needs to increase,¡± Doctor Liu said.


    ¡°It¡¯s faster now!¡± The midwife was also anxious.


    ¡°Doctor!! Doctor!! Save my wife! She just gave birth to our baby! How could she be gone just like that?!¡±


    A grief-stricken man burst out from some corner, rushing towards the delivery room. Gong Sister-inw was startled and hurried to block him.


    ¡°You can''t go in! A baby is being delivered inside!¡±


    The man pushed her away, ¡°I don''t care who''s giving birth! I only know the doctor has to go save my wife right now!¡±


    Zhuang Auntie also came over to stop him, ¡°How can you be like this! Go find another doctor!!¡±


    ¡°Get lost!¡± The man was still trying to get into the delivery room.


    Zhuang Auntie firmly dragged him back, ¡°I won''t let you in!¡±


    For a time, they were at an impasse. The people in the corridor watched thismotion numbly, no longer caring about their own well-being, let alone someone else¡¯s life or death.


    Not long after, an elderly woman came over crying, ¡°Da Hao, let¡¯s go. Bring your wife home.¡±


    ¡°I won''t leave! Xiao Yan still has a chance! I want a doctor to save Xiao Yan!¡± The man refused.


    ¡°Da Hao!¡± The woman scolded, ¡°Xiao Yan was a good doctor her whole life. Do you really want to torment her spirit by causing a ruckus even after she passed?¡±


    Gong Sister-inw was startled, ¡°A doc...doctor?¡±


    The woman came over, pulling the now unresisting, sobbing man along, ¡°Sorry about that... My son just can¡¯t ept his wife''s passing...¡±


    Gong Sister-inw stood up, somewhat stunned, ¡°Your daughter-inw...was a doctor?¡±


    ¡°Ah, yes. She was a doctor. She came back to work just days after giving birth. I guess her fate wasn¡¯t good... She was infected... Her health was weak, she didn¡¯t make it...¡± The woman wiped some tears.


    The woman led Da Hao away. Gong Sister-inw suddenly felt chilled to the bone. For the first time, she clearly realized how cruel this flu epidemic was.


    ¡°Auntie... after this is over...¡± Gong Sister-inw suddenly said, ¡°Let¡¯s go home and get a good sleep...¡±


    ¡°Oh, alright...¡± Zhuang Auntie also hadplex feelings.


    Inside the delivery room.


    ¡°The baby is out!¡± The midwife excitedly announced.


    ¡°Is it cleaned up? How¡¯s the baby?¡± Doctor Liu asked.


    ¡°Everything normal.¡±


    ¡°Begin suturing,¡± Doctor Liu also breathed a sigh of relief.


    ¡°Doctor Liu!¡± The little nurse suddenly pointed to a machine, ¡°The mother¡¯s situation has worsened again!¡±


    ¡°Keep pushing epinephrine!¡± Doctor Liu frowned.


    The little nurse immediately administered it.


    ¡°No good!¡± The little nurse saw the numbers continuing to drop precipitously.


    Doctor Liu¡¯s heart sank to the bottom.


    ¡°Prepare emergency procedures. Call people over to help.¡±


    ¡°Doctor Liu! Massive bleeding!¡± The midwife suddenly eximed.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Doctor Liu shouted anxiously.


    ¡°cental adhesion.¡± The midwife¡¯s expression was not good.


    ¡°I¡¯ll order blood products. You go to the blood bank,¡± Doctor Liu told the little nurse. ¡°First try manual removal. If that doesn¡¯t work we¡¯ll have to consider hysterectomy.¡±


    After taking the order form, the little nurse quickly ran out. Gong Sister-inw hurriedly asked, ¡°Nurse, nurse, how is my Ding Sha?¡±


    The little nurse had no time to say anything. ¡°The doctor will be out soon.¡±


    The little nurse ran off. Gong Sister-inw was extremely uneasy.


    Doctor Liu came out. ¡°The mother is bleeding heavily. Worst case we¡¯ll have to remove the uterus.¡±


    Gong Sister-inw couldn¡¯t make the decision. Hands trembling, she called Xiao Jun and told him about it.


    Xiao Jun didn¡¯t hesitate. ¡°I consent. As long as Ding Sha¡¯s life is saved!¡±

 Chapter 31: Red bean cake

    <h4>Chapter 31</h4>


    The sun outside was bright and warm. The shadows of the trees swayed gently. Passersby walked hurriedly, clutching their books and chasing after each other, eager to make it to ss before the bell rang for roll call.


    Ding Sha sat by the bright, clean floor-to-ceiling window, reluctantly closing the exquisitely printed copy of Zhong Kui Ji in her hands. She touched her short hair and sighed, "I''d love to try this someday, too bad I don''t know how to cook..."


    Putting the book back on the shelf, Ding Sha nced at her watch and slowly walked to the library entrance. "It''s almost noon, what should I eat?"


    Just as she was pondering this, a round-faced girl with curly hair called out to her from the library entrance, waving her hand. "Sha Sha! Let''s go! Time for lunch!"


    When Ding Sha looked up and saw her, she smiled. "Coming!"


    She jogged over for a couple of steps then stopped abruptly. Wait, who was she again?


    Why couldn''t Ding Sha remember her name...


    Seeing her stop, the girl walked over unhappily and pulled Ding Sha along out the door, saying, "Hurry up, or the snack street will be crowded again. I don''t want to wait in line in this hot weather!"


    Ding Sha was confused for a moment, but the inexplicable feeling soon disappeared.


    What was she just thinking about...?


    Being pulled along, Ding Sha shook her head to dismiss the random thoughts and gave a smile. "Alright, let''s go quickly then."


    Many passing students smiled and greeted them as they walked. The girl also responded enthusiastically, waving her hand.


    "Going for lunch! So many delicious snacks on snack street!"


    "Aren''t you going to ss? You''ll bete! There''s roll call today!"


    "What''s wrong with Sha Sha? She looks fine to me!"


    ...


    Ding Sha hesitated. Were they really so popr?


    Approaching the school gate, Ding Sha habitually turned left, but the girl grabbed her. "Sha Sha? Where are you going? Didn''t we agree to go to snack street for lunch? Why are you going that way?"


    "We''re not...going to snack street?" Ding Sha was also confused as she pointed left.


    "But snack street is on the right!" The girl pointed right, puzzled. "Sha Sha, did you read yourself silly?"


    Ding Sha was taken aback.


    The right side...?


    Why did she feel they should go left?


    The girl pulled Ding Sha along to the right. "Let''s go, let''s go. I told you reading too much made you silly. You need to get out more often, especially to go eat with me..."


    Ding Sha couldn''t help but nce back at the left road. A sense of difort suddenly welled up in her heart.


    The snack street was crowded with people, lively and bustling. The girl happily squeezed into the crowd, saying, "Phew! Luckily the stuff I love to eat doesn''t have long lines yet, otherwise I''d be so annoyed!"


    "Oh right! I just got my allowance. Sha Sha, what do you want? My treat!"


    Breathing in the aroma in the air, Ding Sha also felt a little hungry. She looked around and pointed at the Chinese restaurant nearby. "How about we just order a couple dishes?"


    "How can you just eat thating to snack street!" the girl eximed. "You have to eat all kinds of snacks!"


    Ding Sha responded in understanding. "Then..."


    "Do you want to eat potato sticks? Wolf Fang Potato!" The girl''s sharp eyes spotted the potato stand run by an old woman at the roadside, and she dragged Ding Sha over.


    "Granny! One serving of sweet, sour and spicy, please!"


    The old woman nimbly prepared a serving of potato sticks, the portion quite big. Ding Sha picked up a skewer and took a bite.


    The potato skin wasn''t crispy enough, the inside wasn''t soft enough, the seasoning was too strong, too much soy sauce...


    As Ding Sha ate, she was startled.


    How did she know...


    She tentatively took another bite, and these issues naturally surfaced in her mind again.


    But she didn''t even know how to cook...


    "What''s wrong, Sha Sha?" The girl shook her strangely. "You''re really weird today..."


    "It''s nothing..." Though the bizarre feeling in Ding Sha''s heart grew stronger.


    "Do you want red bean cake?" The girl pointed at a nearby cart.


    "Sure." Ding Sha said this, but her eyes were looking at the chestnut cakes beside it.


    "I feel like...I''ve made chestnut cake before..." Ding Sha murmured hesitantly.


    "Don''t be silly! When have you ever cooked, Sha Sha? We grew up together and I don''t know anything about it!" The girl said with augh.


    "I..." Ding Sha looked around at the crowds.


    The strange sense of discement grew stronger. Ding Sha nced at the reflective ss to the side, which showed an ordinary face.


    Did she look like this?


    It seemed so unfamiliar...


    Ding Sha turned to the girl beside her. What was her name...?


    Was this really her college?


    Where was this street?


    And where was the snack street in her memories...?


    Egg soup...assorted hot pot...shredded potatoes...braised mutton...rocking chair...crib...camphor tree...


    In Ding Sha''s mind, countless images and memories intertwined. She started sprinting towards that first left road...


    Her instincts told her what she wanted was there...


    What she wanted to know was there...


    The shadows of people and vendors'' shouts behind her froze and glitched out in an instant. Jagged ck shadows pixted out at the edges.


    The world stopped rotating like a card slideshow, all the people frozen thin and false like paper cutouts.


    Panting, Ding Sha stopped where she felt she should.


    It was a small, antique-looking shop.


    The signboard was blurred by cobwebs and hard to make out. The entrance was set slightly more inward than the other shops, with a tall, aged camphor tree next to it, towering and swaying unsteadily as it dropped leaves.


    Without hesitation, Ding Sha reached out and pushed open the door.


    It opened.


    She went inside.


    The furniture within was disordered and dpidated, covered in thickyers of dust without any signs of life.


    Yet Ding Sha felt she''d seen it in another state before.


    Alive and vibrant.


    In the blur, she heard someone speaking.


    "...Doctor Liu! The mother''s heart has stopped!"


    "Keep going! Don''t stop!"


    Who was talking?


    Ding Sha couldn''t make it out clearly.


    The voices faded away as Ding Sha pushed open the back door.


    A stretch of lush green hills. A shabbily dressed but bright-eyed little boy was burying his head in hisp, weeping sorrowfully. Ding Sha couldn''t help but go over.


    "What''s wrong?"


    The little boy lifted his tear-stained face. "Sha Sha, where are you?"


    Seeing that familiar face, Ding Sha''s eyes widened in an instant as if struck in the heart.


    He was...


    Xiao Jun...


    Xiao Jun...


    Ding Sha clutched her head and crouched down, memories shing nonstop through her mind like a movie on fast forward. She seemed to be watching many chaotic scenes.


    The little boy continued wailing loudly.


    "Sha Sha...don''t leave me!"


    Ding Sha clutched her chest and looked up.


    In the delivery room, the monitor showed the patient''s vitals slowly climbing back up. The nurse cried out joyfully, "She''s back, Doctor Liu! She''s back!"


    She hurriedly continued her work, while sneaking a nce at the patient''s face.


    On the operating table, the barely conscious Ding Sha cracked open her eyes.

 Chapter 32: Mom Hoof Soup 03

    <h4>Chapter 32</h4>


    When Ding Sha really woke up, Xiao Jun no longer needed to be isted.


    Shey in the ward that Dr. Liu had worked so hard to get for her, and with great effort opened her eyes a little.


    Xiao Jun was keeping watch at her bedside, his exposed eyes full of red veins. He looked haggard beyond words.


    "You''re awake..." After a long pause, Xiao Jun said softly.


    "Mm..." Ding Sha murmured gently.


    "You scared me," Xiao Jun squatted in front of the bed and held her hand against his face, "I waited for you for a long time at home, but you didn''te."


    "I thought you didn''t want me anymore."


    "How could that be..." Ding Sha smiled weakly.


    "I stewed a big pot of pork trotters soup, waiting for you to eat it all up." Xiao Jun tenderly stroked her pale, bloodless cheeks.


    "I had a dream," said Ding Sha, vaguely holding Xiao Jun''s hand in return.


    "What kind of dream was it?" Xiao Jun leaned over and rested beside her pillow to listen to her speak.


    "It was quite nice in the dream," Ding Sha couldn''t help but think back to that dream, "except you weren''t in it."


    "None of this was in it, everything here, the dream didn''t have it."


    Ding Sha smiled slightly. She used to be an orphan without parents, introverted in character, with few friends. She had long hair and delicate features, and could make very tasty food.


    Later she was a three-month pregnant woman, with a lover of unknown whereabouts, beautiful long dark hair and a heavenlyplexion, who could still make very tasty food.


    Ding Sha couldn''t help but think, was that contrasting dream trying to remind her in every way that someone was waiting for her to wake up quickly?


    "Fortunately you chose the world with me in it," said Xiao Jun.


    Ding Sha smiled at him, then closed her eyes drowsily.


    Leafing through the extra memories in her mind, Ding Sha still had many guesses she wanted to prove.


    The memories contained more details. She remembered how she and Xiao Jun found that little vige to live in, and also the kind of night when they shyly kept silent. She remembered every promise Xiao Jun had made to her.


    She also remembered theplicated yet determined look in the youth''s eyes when Xiao Jun finally appeared that day.


    She remembered how hot and passionate the young man''s gaze was, containing all the love he had gambled on her.


    The existence of these memories undoubtedly confirmed her identity.


    She was Ding Sha.


    There had only ever been one Ding Sha.


    She couldn''t help but feel gleeful yet puzzled.


    Why did she go to another world and be an entirely new identity?


    And why did she return to this world?


    Leaving those questions aside, didn''t this mean she could now wholeheartedly like Xiao Jun?


    Ding Sha readily abandoned everything about that other world.


    As someone who had always been a loner, she had nothing to be nostalgic for. On the contrary, everything in this world made her heart race.


    She loved the sun rising early every day.


    She loved the tall old schr tree at the door.


    She loved how especially bright the stars and moon were at night.


    She loved the lively hubbub and the scent of worldly affairs.


    And most of all she loved her little family.


    She loved Xiao Jun.


    Wrinkled little Ping An was remembered by his mom and dad for the first time. Gong Sister-inw carried him over for them to see, "He''s a healthy, sturdy little boy."


    Little Ping An was sleeping soundly with his eyes closed. Xiao Jun took a look - as a new dad he was just as curious as the child - "Can I hold him?"


    "Of course you can," said Gong Sister-inw, carefully cing the child in his arms and showing him step-by-step how to hold a baby.


    Xiao Jun''s heart softened.


    All the worries and unease evaporated in this moment. He really had a family of his own now.


    "Look, does he look more like you or me?" Xiao Jun passed the child to Ding Sha.


    "Can''t really tell, but I feel he''ll look like you," said Ding Sha after peering at him for some time. No matter how she looked at him, he seemed just like a little red monkey.


    "Alright, I''ll take him back after you''ve seen him enough. Babies need lots of sleep," said Gong Sister-inw, taking the child back.


    Xiao Jun tucked Ding Sha''s quilt corners in. "I asked the doctor. Generally after a caesarian section you can be discharged after about a week, but because of your special circumstances, you''ll need to stay in hospital under observation for a month."


    Xiao Jun paused for a moment. "But don''t worry, I''ll keep youpany."


    Ding Sha nodded with a smile.


    When Ding Sha had recovered enough to be able to sit up, with the doctor and nurses'' permission, Xiao Jun went home and brought back a bucket of pork trotters soup, because Ding Sha shouldn''t have dipping sauce due to her condition, he''d only brought soup.


    But Ding Sha still enjoyed it very much.


    The pork trotters were soft and tender, silky smooth, melting in the mouth, with delicious mushy broad beans - extremely satisfying with each mouthful.


    "I stewed lots more, I''ll bring you some again tomorrow," said Xiao Jun, as usual picking up the bottom of her bowl.


    Ding Sha used to feel awkward about this, but now it would suddenly give her a sweet feeling, making her heart race.


    "Ding Sha... Ding Sha?" Xiao Jun waved his hand in front of her eyes.


    Since realizing she was Ding Sha, Ding Sha would often unconsciously stare at Xiao Jun, utterly absorbed...


    "Huh? What is it?" Ding Sha acted as if nothing had happened.


    Xiao Jun looked at her suspiciously and frowned, "What are you daydreaming about?"


    "Nothing..."


    "Don''t tell me you''re so dazzled by looking at me?" Xiao Jun suddenly had a brainwave.


    "Cough cough cough..." Ding Sha was shocked, "No I wasn''t!"


    Xiao Jun''s mouth curled up slightly, and he didn''t question her further.


    But the next time Ding Sha stared at him in a daze, Xiao Jun didn''t call out to her.


    Ding Sha recovered very quickly, and after just twenty days Dr. Liu happily told her she could be discharged.


    Xiao Jun handled the discharge procedures for her and took her back to their little home.


    "I haven''t been back for so long," said Ding Sha standing at the door with emotion.


    Her belly was still a little swollen, and hadn''tpletely gone back to normal.


    Xiao Jun came over holding the baby, with Gong Sister-inw and Zhuang Auntie carrying a pile of things.


    "You can finally go home," said Gong Sister-inw, also feelingplicated emotions, "We actually spent New Year''s in hospital... Now spring''s almost here already."


    "The situation''s better now. After some more time passes, I''ll give sister-inw and auntie some time off," said Ding Sha with a smile looking back.


    She had been in hospital for quite a long time, nearly spending all of the New Year there.


    Xiao Jun had already prepared everything needed in the bedroom. The baby cot was not too far from his bed.


    Ding Sha touched the baby cot, "Isn''t the cot a bit too far from me?"


    "It''s not far. He can just cry out in the night and I can reach him easily. You should rest well," said Xiao Jun, who was taking out things like wet wipes they would need.


    Ding Sha smiled slightly with pursed lips.


    Little Ping Any in his little bed, staring wide-eyed at his surroundings.


    He had grown a bit bigger now, no longer just a monkey bottom, instead all fair and tender, not prone to crying, like a little angel.


    And he was as cute as jade snow, everyone who saw him couldn''t help sighing at the importance of genes.


    Ding Sha ate her mother-inw''s pork trotter soup for a whole week, eating it until she couldn''t stand the sight of trotters.


    "I can''t eat any more, I can''t eat any more, let''s switch to something else." Ding Sha hastily waved her hands when she saw Xiao Jun carrying a sandpot.


    This made Xiao Junugh, "It''s not trotters, it''s egg with brown sugar."


    Ding Sha heaved a sigh of relief, "Thank goodness it''s not trotters, I really feel nauseous from eating so much..."


    Xiao Junughed, "Alright, alright, I won''t make it anymore from now on."


    Only then did Ding Sha cheer up.


    The TV kept broadcasting news reports until Little Ping An grew a bit bigger again, able to babble bubbles, and crying "waa waa" when he wanted milk. Finally, the news announced that a vine had been sessfully developed.


    Everyone heaved a sigh of relief.


    Gradually more people appeared on the streets, and the icy cold streets finally had some vitality again.


    The small shops still couldn''t open for business. Every day Ding Sha would stand in the shop holding Little Ping An and looking outside through the ss, gently singing lubies to him.


    Little Ping An was very well-behaved, always staring curiously at everything, only asionally crying out when hungry.


    Gong Sister-inw and Zhuang Auntie had gone back home. Ding Sha started seeking help every day by phoning people as she learned day by day to take care of the baby alone.


    Xiao Jun came in holding the phone.


    "Ding Sha, thendlord said he wants to transfer the house."

 Chapter 33: Steamed Chicken with White Fungus

    <h4>Chapter 33</h4>


    ¡°Transfer it?¡±


    Ding Sha carefully held Little Ping An and turned around, ¡°So sudden?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I think so too,¡± Xiao Jun was idly studying wood carving, thinking of carving a little cat for Little Ping An, ¡°What do you think? If we can, let¡¯s pool some money together to buy this ce. If not, it¡¯s a good time to find another ce.¡±


    Ding Sha thought for a moment. They hadn¡¯t lived here for long, barely a year. Many items in the house were newly bought, so moving now would be somewhat wasteful.


    ¡°Can we talk to thendlord?¡± Ding Sha said. She quite liked this ce.


    ¡°I¡¯ll call the agent back,¡± Xiao Jun brushed the wood shavings off himself.


    ¡°What do you want to eat tonight? I¡¯ll cook it.¡±


    ¡°Let me do it. You take Little Ping An and y in the yard for a bit.¡± Ding Sha hadn¡¯t cooked for a long time and was itching to do it again.


    Xiao Jun smiled and agreed. He also missed Ding Sha''s cooking a lot.


    Ding Sha wrapped Little Ping An in a small nket and saw him blinking his bright innocent eyes as he looked around curiously. She couldn''t resist going over to kiss his little cheeks.


    "Oh, I just can''t resist kissing him. Even though it''s not good, how can my son be so cute?"


    Ding Sha held Little Ping An and slowly spun around to amuse him.


    Xiao Jun stood by the table with a smile, watching the mother and child.


    After enough affection, Ding Sha reluctantly put the child in Xiao Jun''s arms.


    Then she went into the kitchen and took out a yellow-feathered chicken to thaw.


    Although it''s best to use a hen that has neverid eggs, they would have to make do with what they had.


    Ding Sha flicked her thumb over the knife, satisfied to find the de was sharply honed. She flipped the chicken over and decisively sliced down the spine.


    She was going topletely debone the chicken.


    Ding Sha waved the shining knife, skillfully severing the chicken legs and wings in a few snips.


    Then she sliced off the chicken breast, removing all meat from the carcass. She also cut out the bones from the legs and wings.


    Chopping the meat into bite-sized chunks, she added yellow wine, salt, pepper, cornstarch, and a bit of egg white to coat the meat.


    She soaked dried lily flowers, pinching them into small blossoms. After soaking and allowing them to expand for 3-5 minutes, she fished them out to set aside.


    Ding Sha carefully lowered the seasoned chicken chunks into the lily water, without disturbing them, allowing the meat to slowly cook into little spheres.


    Once cooked, she removed any scum with cool water.


    Ding Sha carefully carried arge purple y steamer from a deep cab.


    This was custom made for herst year by an artisan.


    She first ced the chicken and lily flowers into the steamer, sprinkled with goji berries, scallion and ginger slices.


    She mixed yellow wine, salt, pepper into hot water as broth stock.


    Pouring the stock into the steamer ced over a water bath wrapped in a towel, she started the fire to braise.


    After about an hour and a half, the formerly imperial cuisine of steamed chicken and lily flowers soup was ready.


    Xiao Jun held Little Ping An in the yard, squatting to look at his amateurish wood carvings.


    Pointing to a short-legged carving barely recognizable as an animal, he said, "Son, this is a little horse."


    Pointing to a fat duck-like carving, he said, "This is a white swan."


    "When you''re older, Mom will tell you the story of the Ugly Duckling turning into a beautiful swan."


    Ding Sha came out from the kitchen to mock him, "Don''t give Ping An the wrong ideas. What if he grows up unable to recognize real horses and swans?"


    Xiao Jun frowned, examining them closely, "Are they that bad? I think they''re alright."


    "The more I look, the more appealing they be."


    Ding Sha went over, cupping his face and peering at him seriously, "Still so young, yet your eyesight is already failing?"


    Xiao Jun unconsciously made an extremely cute pout, a rare childishness.


    Ding Sha''s heart stirred, lightly leaning in to peck his cheek.


    Xiao Jun was startled, his gaze instantly turning gentle and lingering.


    Unable to resist, he chased after where Ding Sha''s lips had left, finding her red lips.


    Ding Sha noticed his intention.


    Blushing slightly, she tilted away just a little, though her actions seemed acquiescent.


    Indeed, she didn''t actually want to evade him.


    Little Ping An in his arms curiously watched as his young father earnestly and ardently kissed his pretty, gentle mother.


    The youthful mother''s ears were as red as the setting sun.


    The steamer in the kitchen loudly announced it was done. Ding Sha hurriedly got up, somewhat flustered as she tightly grasped her clothes. "The...the food is ready. Wash your hands and get ready to eat."


    She tidied her hair and returned to the kitchen.


    Xiao Jun licked his lips, his gaze full of predatoryughter.


    Little Ping An fussily stretched out an arm, seemingly wanting his father''s attention. Xiao Jun gently ced the soft little limb back into the swaddle. "Let''s go son, time for dinner."


    That night, Ding Sha tidied up the bed. Xiao Jun came in toweling his hair dry.


    He saw his original bed by the window was stripped, just a bare frame left.


    "Sha Sha?" Xiao Jun went to Ding Sha''s side, first teasing Little Ping An until he giggled before asking, "Where''s my bed?"


    "Sleep here from now on," Ding Sha pointed to her original bed.


    "Last night Ping An nearly tumbled off the bed. Scared me half to death."


    "You sleep on the outer side to block him," Ding Sha struggled to rewrap the fussy baby. "Why do you love moving around so much, sweetheart? You nearly gave Mom a heart attack..."


    Xiao Jun nodded. With her hair clipped up, disobedient strands would pop out whenever Ding Sha leaned over, the whole updo looking precarious.


    Xiao Jun reached over to take it out and redo it for her properly. "The agent said thendlord ising over tomorrow to meet and discuss with us face-to-face."


    "How much do you think we''ll need to buy this ce?" Ding Sha couldn''t help but ask.


    Xiao Jun said, "Conservatively estimated, at least 2 million will be needed to purchase it."


    "Do we have enough?" Ding Sha worried a lot. She''d thought they could slowly improve their lives, yet it seemed they still had to start from nothing.


    "Don''t worry, let''s try asking thendlord for installments. If not we can apply for a loan as ast resort," Xiao Jun had already been thinking up contingency ns the whole afternoon.


    Ding Sha sighed, "Let''s see how thendlord responds tomorrow before deciding..."


    The next day the earliest riser was Little Ping An. He looked left and right, finding his parents still fast asleep. The little guy frowned and went "pfft, pfft."


    Xiao Jun was barely awake when he caught a whiff of something foul. He awoke from his dream with a resigned sigh.


    Seeing Ding Sha about to get up next to him and Little Ping An blinking at him all innocent, he sighed again and carried the boy to the bathroom to change his diaper.


    Thendlord came very early, right after breakfast. Xiao Jun was tirelessly trying to teach Little Ping An to speak.


    "Come on, say Mama, Ma¡ªma¡ª" Xiao Jun held Little Ping An, pacing around the living room. Ding Sha was watching her phone, catching up on a TV drama that updatedst night.


    "Knock knock knock¡ª"


    A plump, expensively dressed olddy knocked on the door.


    Xiao Jun opened it, "Yes?"


    The olddy showed him the chat with the agent on her phone, "I''m thendlord here. I heard you wanted to discuss the house so I came over."


    Xiao Jun weed her in to sit down. Ding Sha brought over hot water.


    The olddy looked at the baby in his arms, "What a well-behaved darling, and so handsome!"


    Xiao Jun held his little hand, "Come on Ping An, say thank you to Grandma..."


    Little Ping An obediently smiled.


    The olddy yed with him a bit before getting down to business.


    "My asking price for this ce is 2.3 million, payable in full immediately and I''ll transfer the deed over."

 Chapter 34: Black Sesame Cheese

    <h4>Chapter 34</h4>


    "I''m really left with no other choice. My husband and I bought this house when we were young. After so many years, I really don''t want to sell it if I have a choice..."


    "But my son and daughter are both unemployed now. With a whole family to feed, I have no other way but to sell the house."


    The olddy said worriedly.


    "Auntie, please give us a discount. We''ve just started this business, and haven''t even rented this house for a full year yet."


    "Our child has just been born. We really can''t afford such arge sum all at once..."


    "How about we pay you in installments? We''ll give you part first, then every six months, we''ll send you the money as fast as we can."


    "My child, please understand my situation too..." the olddy sighed.


    "2.3 million. Not a cent less."


    Ding Sha was troubled. She looked at Xiao Jun. Xiao Jun was gently patting Little Ping An to soothe him. He nced up and said, "We really can''t afford that. How about this - we''ll move out as soon as we can next month."


    The olddy was stunned for a moment. To be honest, in her heart, this young couple was the ideal choice.


    She had seen how bustling their business was, and guessed they must have made quite a lot.


    But the olddy still couldn''t bear to lower the price. She wanted to sell the house as quickly as possible.


    Xiao Jun could tell what she was thinking from her expression.


    "Auntie, won''t you reconsider? This house is in a great location. Once you miss this chance, it''ll be hard to find another buyer," the olddy couldn''t resist and spoke again.


    "We can''t afford it. Let''s look for another ce," Ding Sha also understood, "We paid the rent several years in advance. Please remember to refund it to us when the timees."


    She wasn''t too upset. She thought it wasn''t too egregious a sin to be more concerned about oneself in this situation.


    The olddy asked again, "So how much can you afford?"


    Xiao Jun had already opened his phone to look for new houses.


    Seeing his expression, Ding Sha knew he didn''t want to stay here anymore. So she just smiled without answering.


    The olddy sighed, still a bit reluctant, "I''ve never seen people negotiate like you."


    Xiao Junughed a little, "Auntie, don''t pretend you don''t know this house could be bought for 1.8 million right now?"


    "If you ask for an extra 500,000, can I not agree?"


    The olddy choked up, "Young people these days don''t understand how hard it is for seniors like me... I''m so old but still need to provide for two whole families. Is it so wrong for me to want to save up more?"


    The olddy went on and on about how good her house was, and how Xiao Jun and Ding Sha didn''t know a good deal. She said young people nowadays don''t respect their elders andck manners. She talked for a long time and refused to stop.


    Xiao Jun was getting impatient, "That''s enough. Bring up your own kids yourself. I don''t want to rent or buy anymore. Is that not allowed? You''re forcing me to give you this extra 500,000 to feed your kids?"


    "I''ve never even heard them call me dad!"


    "Ah Jun!" Ding Sha had been listening quietly to Xiao Jun arguing with her. Frankly, Ding Sha was a bit angry too, but hearing hisst line, she still tugged his arm out of respect for elders.


    The olddy pointed at him with a trembling hand, fuming, "You... you!"


    "Get out of my house immediately!"


    Xiao Jun pulled his mouth into a smirk, "Fine. First refund the extra rent we paid."


    "Thew states that a sale does not nullify existing rental agreements. Even if you sell the house, as long as you don''t refund my rent, I can stay until the day I''m supposed to move out."


    The olddy was so angry she nearly popped a blood vessel. She huffed and squeezed out the door.


    Soon after, Xiao Jun received a call from the agent.


    The rent was returned a weekter. Xiao Jun sent back an "OK" and continued looking at houses.


    This time, he looked at a small multi-story house with a yard in the south of Nanjiang City.


    "Why do you keep looking at these small houses with yards?" Ding Sha asked curiously after ncing around twice.


    "Because you like them," Xiao Jun looked at her strangely.


    The house Xiao Jun looked at alone, he booked on the spot.


    "You''ll definitely like it," he said mysteriously.


    With nothing to do, the two of them packed at home, preparing to move after Sister Ge and the others came back.


    It was a pity for their regr customers. They wondered if there was a way to notify them of the snack shop''s new address.


    Ding Sha swept up a huge clump of hair from the floor. She was stunned for a moment, then reached up to touch her scalp, "Ah Jun!"


    "Hm?! What''s wrong?" Xiao Jun was startled by her.


    Ding Sha said anxiously, "Am I going bald? I lost so much hair!"


    Xiao Jun thought it was something serious. He breathed a sigh of relief, "No no, you still have plenty of hair."


    Ding Sha didn''t believe him. She threw down the broom, "I''m going to cook up some ck sesame!"


    She rushed into the kitchen. Xiao Jun picked up the broom helplessly and started sweeping the floor. He didn''t forget to say to Little Ping An, who was watching curiously from the crib, "Look at your mom, so easily shocked. How cute!"


    Little Ping An: "...."


    If Little Ping An could understand and talk, he would definitely also find this very silly.


    Ding Sha grabbed arge jar of ck sesame and stir-fried it over low heat in a t pan for six or seven minutes until it popped crisply. She pinched a small handful and put it in her mouth to chew. The crunchy texture was satisfying.


    She poured it out and added water, then blended it into a paste in the blender. To make the texture even finer, Ding Sha filtered it once more.


    She added water to the leftover dregs and blended again in the blender to increase utilization and not waste any.


    She steamed a handful of red jujubes until soft, then filtered into date paste.


    Finally, she poured the ck sesame paste and rice flour paste thinned with water together into a pot and simmered it over heat, adding sugar as she simmered.


    When the color had clearly darkened, Ding Sha also added the prepared date paste and continued simmering, adding some rose jam for beauty and nourishment.


    She kept simmering.


    When she felt it was about right, it was ready to drink.


    Ding Sha stood at the kitchen door with a bowl of thick, dark, aromatic ck sesame syrup and finished it.


    Her fear of hair loss was slightly alleviated.


    She didn''t dare serve any to Xiao Jun, afraid Little Ping An would want it.


    After shooing Xiao Jun to the kitchen to drink ck sesame syrup, Ding Sha held Little Ping An and paced around the room making himugh.


    Little Ping An grabbed his mom''s clothes, smelling the fragrant aroma on her.


    Ding Sha only felt her shoulder grow damp. Walking to the mirror, she saw Little Ping An''s drool flowing like a waterfall.


    Ding Sha uncharacteristically felt a little guilty. She immediately went to change her clothes and put a fresh drool towel on Little Ping An.


    Time passed slowly. A few small restaurants tentatively opened their doors. Ding Sha was still somewhat uneasy and only opened for takeout orders. There were fewer and fewer customers each day. Business was very rxed.


    "Hello, are you open for dine-in?" Ding Sha looked up holding her child to see a middle-aged man with a squared face supporting a very kind-looking, trembling olddy.


    "Sorry, we''re not open for dine-in yet," Ding Sha smiled. "We''re only doing takeout now."


    "Can I order some dishes to go then?" the middle-aged man asked.


    "Please tell me what you''d like," Ding Sha handed him a menu.


    The middle-aged man didn''t take it. "I want Round Dream Pancakes, Crispy Braised Pork, and Rice Noodle with Pork."


    Ding Sha was stunned for a moment. These dishes sounded somewhat familiar. They seemed to be what that grandfather had wanted to eat...


    She looked at the middle-aged man and felt he did look a bit familiar.


    "Has the elder been here before?"

 Chapter 35: A Dream Come True

    <h4>Chapter 35</h4>


    "Hey, hey, you''ve been here before," the middle-aged man''s troubled face finally showed a hint of a smile. "My father came once and said he had a particrly delightful te of fried sauce noodles. He couldn''t stop praising it."


    "Tell them to bring us here next time."


    Ding Sha chuckled as she listened. "I knew it. When my old man was leaving, he kept talking about wanting to eat these dishes."


    "But you and your father look so alike. I felt familiar as soon as I saw your face."


    The middle-aged man nodded. "Indeed, my mom always says I was carved from the same mold as my dad, especially our facial features. We have the exact same square-shaped face."


    As he spoke, he introduced the elderlydy beside him, who had an aged and dignified appearance. "This is my mother."


    Ding Sha quickly brought over two chairs. "Please have a seat. Let me ask the kitchen to prepare the dishes right away."


    Xiao Jun was in the back, packing up some unused pots. When he saw Ding Sha enter, he asked, "Someone''s here?"


    "Yes, it''s the family of that old man from earlier. They want the same three dishes. Once you''re done preparing them, pack them up and take them out," Ding Sha wiped her sweat. "Take a break and tidy upter. There''s no rush."


    Xiao Jun nodded, stood up, and drank arge ss of water. "I''ll follow your lead."


    The elderlydy was appraising the decor in the room. "Your ce is nicely renovated. Unlike other eateries, it''s not dirty and dim. One can''t enjoy a meal in such an atmosphere."


    The middle-aged man hurriedly whispered, "Mom!"


    The elderlydy smiled apologetically at her. "Sorry, I just think your ce is great."


    Ding Sha shook her head. "Thank you for yourpliment."


    "Where''s the old man? Why didn''t hee today?"


    The middle-aged man looked somewhat mncholic, but the elderlydy smiled. "He can''te."


    Ding Sha looked at her, puzzled.


    The middle-aged man took over the conversation. "My father is old. He fell ill and couldn''t make it. We just finished his funeral a couple of days ago."


    Ding Sha was momentarily stunned, finding it hard to believe.


    She still vividly remembered the old man''s joyful dancing when he ate the fried sauce noodles. He was lively and adorable. How could he just cease to exist?


    "Ah... my condolences..."


    "It''s alright. We''re both in our seventies and have lived through many years, experienced many things. It''s enough for us," the elderlydy said cheerfully. "People have to die, you know. If we keep living, we''ll be old monsters, won''t we?"


    "I just feel a bit regretful."


    "What regrets?" Ding Sha asked.


    "I''m from the south, and the old man was from the north. We never had a chance to eat together. He ate his braised noodles, and I had my small wontons. We bickered and quarreled like that all our lives. Isn''t it quite magical?"


    A smile of reminiscence appeared on the elderlydy''s lips. "He always said I wouldn''t ept new vors, yet he still made wontons for me every day. He ended up cooking southern cuisine for me all his life."


    "My mom was a youngdy from andlord family, and my dad was a kitchen helper," the middle-aged man exined, as if he had said it countless times before. "My dad cooked at home all his life. He could prepare dishes from various culinary traditions for every meal."


    Ding Sha imagined that scene and couldn''t help but smile.


    "Arriving here, I never really had the chance to taste the Beijing cuisine he had talked about all his life," the olddy sighed with a tinge of regret. "I remember the day he came back home, he was so happy, humming a tune he hadn''t hummed in a long time, walking lightly. He said he had eaten a particrly delicious fried sauce noodles and wanted to bring me along to try it too."


    "What a pity..." The olddy touched the bracelet on her wrist, feeling nostalgic. "I haven''t had the chance to taste it..."


    The middle-aged man sighed along with her.


    The atmosphere grew heavy, with an unnamed mncholy enveloping everyone.


    Life is both beautiful and fragile. Even when a person is gone, emotions still live on.


    Xiao Jun came out carrying a neatly packed te of sliced pork in sweet bean sauce. "Here''s one serving."


    He ced it on the table and looked at Ding Sha. "What''s wrong?"


    "It''s nothing," Ding Sha looked up at him and couldn''t help pouting and acting coquettish.


    Xiao Jun reached out and pinched her cheek. "Good girl."


    He turned around and went back to the kitchen, bringing out a ss of freshly squeezed fruit juice. "Remember to drink this."


    The olddy looked at Ding Sha with loving eyes. "You young couple have such a good rtionship. Just married?"


    "The baby is only two months old," Ding Sha pointed to the room behind her. "Sleeping in there."


    The olddy''s expression grew even more benevolent, and in the end, she just sighed, "That''s wonderful..."


    Xiao Jun steamed the rice noodle with meat and started preparing the Dream-fulfilling Pancakes.


    The Dream-fulfilling Pancakes are considered a traditional Beijing dish. Legend has it that one day Empress Dowager Cixi dreamed of eating pancakes stuffed with minced meat, and when she woke up, she happened to have this dish, so she named it Dream-fulfilling Pancakes.


    He mixed medium-gluten flour and sugar with yeast to create a slightly firm dough. He made small dough balls with a bit of oil and set them aside, then formed normal-sized dough balls.


    After rolling out the dough, he stuffed the oiled small dough balls inside and sealed it. He brushed some syrup on top and covered it generously with white sesame seeds, lightly pressing it down to form a thick small pancake about the size of half a palm. He let it rest on the side to ferment.


    After it doubled in size, he put it in the oven and baked it for fifteen minutes. The result was a fragrant and soft small pancake.


    He heated the pan, added some oil, and stir-fried the minced meat until it turned white. After the meat became crispy, he added diced water chestnuts and minced ginger to the pan, seasoning it with cooking wine, soy sauce, salt, sugar, and pepper. After a few more stirs, it was ready to be served.


    Finally, the rice noodle with meat in the other pan was also done.


    Xiao Jun packed both dishes and brought them out. The olddy was gazing at the te of sliced pork in sweet bean sauce, lost in thought.


    Perhaps she was thinking about the old man who would be overjoyed when he ate something delicious.


    The middle-aged man paid the bill and helped his trembling mother back home.


    Xiao Jun watched them at the door for a long time before suddenly saying, "We must die together, not leaving each other behind."


    "Spit, spit, spit! The year hasn''t even ended yet!" Ding Sha raised her hand and yfully pped him. "What nonsense are you talking about?"


    But Xiao Jun was serious. "I mean it."


    "We must die together. I don''t want to leave you alone in this world, and I don''t want to be left alone either."


    Ding Sha felt moved again and stood on her tiptoes to touch Xiao Jun''s head. "Alright, I''ll strive for that."


    "There''s a phrase that goes ''to share the same bed in life, and the same grave in death''," Xiao Jun embraced Ding Sha, whose waist had be much slimmer. "In this lifetime, I will only be with you, sharing the same bed and the same grave."


    Ding Sha smiled and extended her pinky finger. "Then let''s pinky swear."


    Xiao Jun hooked his pinky with hers. "Agreed."


    Ding Sha felt like she had forgotten something and scratched her head. "They say pregnancy makes you forgetful. I''m bing more and more forgetful..."


    Xiao Jun raised an eyebrow, observing her deep in thought.


    Suddenly, Ding Sha pped her forehead. "Little Ping An! I forgot about Little Ping An!"


    She rushed inside like a whirlwind. Little Ping An was already awake, holding back a package of tears and looking at the doorway.


    Ding Sha quickly picked him up andforted, "Good boy... Mommy will sing you a song..."


    Little Ping An managed to hold back his tears and babbled in anguage Ding Sha couldn''t understand.


    Fortunately, Little Ping An was easy to appease. Even though Mommy momentarily forgot about him, he still looked at Ding Sha with affectionate eyes and smiled.


    Meanwhile, Xiao Jun started packing his belongings to take with him.


    After a while, the middle-aged man returned.


    "Hello, is there something I can help you with?" Xiao Jun asked, puzzled.


    "It''s about my father," the middle-aged man took out a meticulously wrapped book, "I want to give you this recipe book as a gift."

 Chapter 36: The Three Threads

    <h4>Chapter 36</h4>


    "Cookbook?"


    Xiao Jun looked at it with surprise and didn''t take it.


    "Can we talk inside? It''s a long story," the middle-aged man seemed somewhat mncholic.


    "Of course," Xiao Jun weed him inside.


    "I''m Wang Zhengyang. My father''s name is Wang Hai, and he is the eighth-generation descendant of authentic Shandong cuisine. This cookbook is the culmination of his years of learning and innovation, written with great passion and effort."


    Xiao Jun''s expression turned serious. He had heard of Wang Hai''s name before, although he had never met him. Wang Hai was the old man renowned for his mouth-watering meat dishes and Beijing-style cuisine.


    "I can''t ept this cookbook," Xiao Jun shook his head. Such a precious item would be a treasure in any restaurant.


    Wang Zhengyang smiled. "Don''t be hasty, let me exin."


    "My father had a disagreement with our family recently because my stubborn son refused to learn his recipes and instead wanted to study Western cuisine. It broke my father''s heart, so he ran out and ended uping to your house."


    "After returning home, my father sighed and said not to force the child if he doesn''t want to learn. But I feel regretful."


    Wang Zhengyang looked at Xiao Jun with a questioning gaze. "Although I''ve been learning cooking from my father, I''m not talented in this area. I can only follow the cookbook meticulously and produce each dish exactly as it is written. It may taste good to those who are unfamiliar, but experts would know that the vorsck innovation."


    "I can''t discern the subtle differences in taste, and I can''t figure out how to modify ingredients, seasonings, and cooking methods to improve the dishes. It''s just not my forte."


    "I can manage our family restaurant well, but I can''t carry forward the legacy of the Wang family''s cuisine."


    Wang Zhengyang gently touched the cookbook in his hand. "Instead of letting it gather dust, I''d rather give it to you so that you can improve and carry forward the recipes."


    "My father would also be happy knowing that his lifelong dedication to cooking has found a good home for his cookbook. It''s my way of honoring him even a hundred years from now."


    Xiao Jun looked at the cookbook again and felt that it was different. It was not just a cookbook; it carried a profound vision and entrusted responsibility.


    He solemnly said, "I can only promise that I won''t let the Wang family''s cuisine be disgraced. Every dish thates out of my hands will be worthy of the name of Wang''s cuisine."


    Wang Zhengyang nced at him with reluctance and handed the cookbook to Xiao Jun. "We have tasted the dishes you make, and they are delicious."


    "My mother also said they were delicious," Wang Zhengyang thought of his mother and smiled tenderly, "When will you officially open? I want to bring my mother here to dine in."


    "Do you know how to make local Shanghai dishes? My mother is from Shanghai, but it''s been a long time since she had an authentic local meal. I want to fulfill her wish."


    Xiao Jun pondered for a moment and replied, "We can prepare marinated fresh sea cucumber. Spring bamboo shoots will be avable in a while."


    Wang Zhengyang was overjoyed. "My mother loves marinated fresh sea cucumber!"


    Xiao Jun informed him of the new address after the relocation and saw him off.


    When he returned, holding the priceless cookbook, he sighed once again.


    "What''s wrong? Why do you look so downcast?" Ding Sha approached, holding Little Ping An.


    "Come here, Little Ping An, give Daddy a smile."


    Little Ping An didn''t know if he could understand, but he obediently smiled widely.


    Xiao Jun told Ding Sha about Wang Zhengyang''s situation and finally said, "It''s really..."


    He thought for a long time but couldn''t figure out what to say, so he sighed.


    Ding Sha put down the recipe and said, "Since there''s a renovation going on over there, we can separately list a section for Grandpa Wang''s dishes and call it ''Wang Family Cuisine.'' What do you think?"


    "That''s exactly what I was thinking," Xiao Jun said, worried that Ding Sha''s arm might hurt from holding the child, so he took Little Ping An in his arms. "Thendlord over there is quite reasonable. The location and area of the house are even better now. I thought that if it''s suitable, we can save enough money and eventually buy it. I mentioned it to thendlord, and he agreed."


    "So we can consider the renovation. The pandemic is gradually under control now. We can make an appointment with a designer another day and take a look at the design and decoration ns. What do you think?"


    "Of course, that''s great!" Ding Sha was quite happy.


    Perhaps all Chinese people have a sense of stability and belonging when they buy a house and settle down.


    Ding Sha was no exception. As she spoke, she took out her phone and started searching for decoration ideas.


    "Can we decorate it in any style?" Ding Sha asked.


    Xiao Jun replied concisely, "Whatever you like."


    Ding Sha was his preference.


    For Xiao Jun, when facing Ding Sha, there was only "yes" and no "no."


    After looking for a long time, Ding Sha finally decided to go with a Chinese-style decoration.


    She saved a design that she liked and showed it to the designer she had arranged to meet with Xiao Jun. "Can we do it like this?"


    "Of course," the designer nced at it and understood. "But the wooden furniture like this may not be readily avable in the market to suit your taste."


    "That''s fine. I can have it custom-made based on the design," Ding Sha waved her hand. She was satisfied with Wei Uncle''s aesthetic sense and craftsmanship.


    "Alright then, in the next few days, I''ll oversee the renovation there. If there''s anything that needs to be finalized, I''ll give you a call," the designer was an efficient and decisive career woman. Only after everything was discussed did her demeanor soften.


    "How old is the little one? Just born recently, right?"


    "Just three months," Ding Sha smiled.


    "So adorable. When my daughter was this age, she cried every day as if her father had died."


    Ding Sha paused for a moment. It was the first time she had heard such a description.


    The designer smiled mischievously at her. "My ex-husband cheated on me during my pregnancy."


    "Oh..." Ding Sha didn''t know how to console her.


    "You can just say ''my condolences'' to me," the designer winked yfully. "Anyway, I consider him dead."


    Ding Sha burst intoughter. She thought this designer was really interesting.


    Not only was she carefree, but even when discussing the decoration matters, she avoided contacting Xiao Jun and Ding Sha.


    ording to the designer, it was to avoid any unnecessary trouble.


    The designer looked at the sky and said, "It''s gettingte. I still need to make a trip to the building materials market. Not sure which stores are still open."


    "Wait! It''s already sote. Let''s have a meal before you leave," Ding Sha quickly stopped her.


    The designer initially wanted to decline, but her stomach growled in protest, so she decided to sit down. "Let''s eat first then. Coincidentally, I''m hungry too," she said.


    "What would you like to have?" Ding Sha handed her the menu.


    The designer nced at it and replied, "Something simple and healthy, like ''Shredded Vegetables in Sauce.''"


    "How about a bowl of rice?"


    "No, no, no," the designer waved her hand, "health-conscious urban professionals don''t consume carbs at night."


    Ding Sha chuckled and passed the menu to Xiao Jun.


    ''Shredded Vegetables in Sauce'' is actually a vegetarian dish from the Huaiyang cuisine.


    White radish, carrot, and green radish are shredded and nched in water, then poured into a pot of crucian carp soup with a pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning. After steaming for ten minutes, it is topped with a thinyer of egg crepe and ready to be served.


    Not only is it fresh and delightful, but the fragrance of the fish soup is also infused throughout, making it both nourishing and healthy, satisfying the taste buds.


    The designer finished the te clean, patted her satisfied belly, and happily headed to the building materials market.


    Ding Sha held a stack of furniture pictures and said, "Take a look at these. See if there''s anything we don''t need or need to add. We''ll give them to Uncle Wei another day. It will take quite a bit of time to handle this stack."


    Xiao Jun took them and the first thing that caught her eye was a note from Ding Sha indicating an extrarge bed.


    It measured over two meters, looking incredibly spacious.


    Unable to resist, Xiao Jun held her phone and started daydreaming.

 Chapter 37: Malatang

    <h4>Chapter 37</h4>


    Ding Sha turned around and saw Xiao Jun staring nkly at the blueprint, lost in thought. She couldn''t help asking, "What are you looking at?"


    Xiao Jun was startled. "Oh, um...nothing..."


    He nced at the blueprint of therge bed again, then went over to hold Little Ping An, who was still refusing to sleep. "Let me take him. You''re always saying your back hurts, right?"


    Ding Sha handed the child to him. "I think he''s not sleepy yet. He wants to y a little longer. Keep himpany for a bit."


    "I''m going to take a shower. I feel like my hair is getting smelly."


    Ding Sha took her change of clothes to the bathroom. The sound of running water was heard. Xiao Jun was somewhat distracted as he held Little Ping An, who babbled bubbles against his chest and looked at him curiously.


    Xiao Jun walked around with the child in his arms, with expressions that alternated between smiles and frowns, and his face asionally flushed red.


    When Ding Sha came out drying her hair, she saw Xiao Jun standing by the window, gazing outside lost in thought, looking conflicted.


    "What''s wrong?" Ding Sha asked.


    "Oh, um...nothing." Xiao Jun was startled by her.


    "You''re acting strange today," Ding Sha said, puzzled by his behavior.


    Little could she guess what car scene was running through Xiao Jun''s mind.


    "I''m...I''m fine," Xiao Jun brushed her off. He put Little Ping An down. "It''s gettingte, we should rest."


    Ding Sha was also tired after a long day. She yawned and went to get the hair dryer. "Let me dry my hair then I''ll sleep. You go ahead and sleep first."


    How could Xiao Jun sleep?


    After Ding Shay down, Xiao Jun still had his eyes wide open looking at her, breathing unevenly.


    "What''s wrong with you?" Ding Sha felt his strangeness everywhere.


    "I...I..." Xiao Jun broke into a nervous sweat, aroused by his own imagination. He unconsciously moved closer, wondering if he should tell Ding Sha.


    Ding Sha''s face was hit with his strong pheromones. Somewhat btedly, she reacted to his abnormal behavior.


    Ding Sha couldn''t help burying her face in the quilt, unable to utter a word for quite a while.


    He got out of bed. "I...I''ll go to the bathroom. You sleep first."


    After hearing the sound of fabric rubbing, Xiao Jun¡¯s hurried steps to the bathroom could be heard.


    The shower head was turned on with a gushing water sound that drowned out the man''s muffled gasps. Ding Sha poked a red face out of the bedding, seemingly about to bleed.


    She blinked nkly at the still fast asleep Little Ping An, and slowly let out a long breath.


    When Xiao Jun returned, Ding Sha was already half asleep. She identally touched his icy skin and shuddered from the cold.


    "Are you cold?" Xiao Jun rubbed his arms. "I''ll warm up soon."


    He said proudly after a while.


    He didn''t mention what had just happened.


    Ding Sha stared at the ceiling. When Xiao Jun''s breathing became steady, she whispered,


    "Not now, wait..."


    Xiao Jun was instantly wide awake. He got excited like a teenage boy, hugging her tightly and swallowing before answering, "Okay."


    After saying it, Ding Sha calmed down instead.


    She had decided to be with Xiao Jun properly.


    In the quilt, Ding Sha found his hand and intertwined her fingers tightly with his. "Sleep, good night."


    Xiao Jun murmured in agreement.


    The room became quiet again, only asionally hearing the baby''s babbles in his sleep.


    The next morning, both woke upte, sleeping until noon. For once when Little Ping An woke up, he didn''t cry or fuss, just yed with his hands while looking at his mom and dad lying in bed.


    Ding Sha was sleeping soundly with her head on Xiao Jun¡¯s shoulder. When she opened her eyes, Xiao Jun lightly kissed her lips.


    "You didn''t even brush your teeth..." Ding Shained, dissatisfied.


    "I didn''t use my tongue..." Xiao Jun had gotten much bolder, licking his lips and speaking bluntly.


    Ding Sha was stunned for a moment. She kicked him once before getting up to wash up.


    Xiao Jun picked up Little Ping An. "Daddy''s good boy, not crying or fussing, so well-behaved!"


    The well-behaved son who didn''t cry or fuss let out a loud fart, stinking up his novice dad who had to hold his breath while changing the diaper.


    When Ding Sha came out, she saw Xiao Jun''s speechless expression and couldn''t helpughing.


    "This kid sure stinks..." Xiao Junined half-jokingly.


    Ding Sha ignored him. She said the stinky one was him, always running away the fastest when it came to changing diapers.


    Men always say one thing but mean another.


    Carrying the child to the soft nketed recliner, Ding Sha was about to read Little Ping An a story when she got a call from Granny Zhang.


    "Granny Zhang!"


    "Oh my!" Granny Zhang still sounded energetic. "Sha Sha, I heard you gave birth? How are you?"


    "Yes, I gave birth on New Year''s Day, a boy. His nickname is Ping An." Ding Sha was happy to hear her voice.


    "Wonderful! What a nice name!" Granny Zhang was delighted. "Have you been resting well after childbirth? Is Xiao treating you well?"


    "I''m still resting. I have a pile of nourishing postpartum meals every day that make me feel awful from eating so much," Ding Sha said with augh.


    "That''s good, that''s very important! You can''t underestimate postpartum care! No wind, no washing hair or showering, best to just nurture yourself in bed, you hear?"


    Ding Sha who had just washed her hair and showeredst night was not guilty at all. "I know, Granny Zhang. I will."


    After chatting for a few more sentences, Granny Zhang hung up.


    Ding Sha had just breathed a sigh of relief when she saw Xiao Jun bringing over arge tray of food.


    "Eat up."


    Ding Sha looked unpleasantly at the pile of strange postpartum dishes, somewhat unwilling to eat them.


    Xiao Jun served her a bowl. "Eat."


    Seeing her expression, he added, "I''ll eat what you don''t finish."


    As usual, what Ding Sha didn''t eat, didn''t want to eat, or was full after a few bites, all ended up in Xiao Jun''s stomach.


    Maybe the postpartum food really was nutritious. Xiao Jun grew taller again and more muscr.


    Now he no longer had the skinny, childish look from before.


    The current Xiao Jun had broad shoulders and rugged features, already a man who could support a wife and child.


    Ding Sha stared at him gobbling the food down with no sign of picking or choosing. After quite a while, she said, "I want spicy hot pot!"


    "Hm?" Xiao Jun was rarely stuck for words.


    "Make me spicy hot pot." Ding Sha red fiercely at him.


    "Alright." Xiao Jun thought for a moment before agreeing.


    The hot pot broth was cooked with milk for ten minutes until the milky smell was eliminated. Xiao Jun scooped out residues from the bottom of the pot with a smalldle. The satisfactory broth was done.


    Xiao Jun added the fatty beef rolls Ding Sha loved to eat, then some mushrooms, bamboo shoots, lotus root slices and other vegetables.


    After mixing in some chili oil, he scooped the cooked ingredients into arge bowl along with two scoops of broth.


    The aroma alone was mouthwatering.


    Ding Sha eagerly grabbed a piece of fatty beef, dipped it in chili oil and stuffed it into her mouth.


    With a blissful expression, she said, "This is the taste!"


    In the end, she finished the entirerge bowl with no leftovers for Xiao Jun, rare for her.


    Xiao Jun teased her a little. Ding Sha pouted at him angrily, fierce like an angry kitten.


    "Oh right, Sha Sha, do you want to raise a cat?"

 Chapter 38: Cat Meal

    <h4>Chapter 38</h4>


    "Raise a cat?" Ding Sha subconsciously repeated, "Where is there a cat?"


    "There''s one at the new house," Xiao Jun smiled, "Thendy said there''s currently a single mother living in the yard. Her belly is round and she sunbathes in the yard every day. By the time we move in, she''ll probably have given birth to kittens."


    "If we want to raise her, we should bring her back now instead of scaring her when we start renovating." Ding Sha said almost without hesitation, "Let''s raise her!"


    Xiao Jun brought the shivering cat mom back after just a few days. She was a tortoiseshell cat with delicate features and a very skinny body butrge belly.


    She looked at people warily and cautiously.


    Ding Sha felt a little distressed as she stroked her, "You must have been so frightened!"


    Xiao Jun was still taking things out of the car: cat litter, litter box, food bowl, cat food, treats, cat bed - he had bought back all kinds of stuff in one go.


    He pulled down his mask and took a breath, "I took her to the pet hospital. It''s not good to vinate her while she''s pregnant with kittens. I was afraid she would have an adverse reaction. We''ll take her back in a few days after she calms down for a bath."


    Ding Sha hmm-ed in acknowledgment. After Xiao Jun washed his hands and came back, she ced Little Ping An in his arms and squatted down herself to look at the little tortoiseshell still curled up in the corner.


    Considering she had just arrived, Ding Sha made some cat food using sheep''s milk powder and brought it over to her in a bowl, "Are you hungry? Eat something."


    The little tortoiseshell stared at her warily, not moving a muscle.


    Ding Sha put down the food bowl and pulled Xiao Jun away, "Don''t keep staring at her, it''ll scare her."


    "Let''s just go about our business normally and give her some time to settle in."


    Xiao Jun seemed to sort of understand as he followed her.


    Ding Sha tidied away all the cat stuff Xiao Jun had bought. Then she went into the kitchen.


    Xiao Jun followed her in, "Are you hungry? Let me do it."


    "I''m not hungry," Ding Sha shook her head, "I''m making something for Little Cat to eat."


    "Don''t you have cat food?" Xiao Jun asked, puzzled.


    "Of course cats need a more varied diet. And she''s a mother," Ding Sha said matter-of-factly, "So she should eat better."


    "Oh..." Xiao Jun nodded.


    Ding Sha opened the fridge, "Where did you put the chicken breast I bought before?"


    "It''s in the bottom shelf," Xiao Jun pointed it out to her, "There''s also basa fish."


    "Perfect!" Ding Sha took them out to defrost.


    "Is there any shrimp? What about beef?" Ding Sha asked uncertainly. She hadn''t been the one cooking these past few days so she wasn''t sure what was in the house.


    "We have both, second shelf from the bottom, take a look," Xiao Jun thought about it.


    Little Ping An craned his neck up high to watch Ding Sha crouching to grab things from the fridge. Xiao Jun straightened him back up but he was unhappy about it and scrunched up his face, on the verge of tears.


    "There, there, I''ve offended His Highness!" Xiao Jun simply crouched down too so Little Ping An could see Ding Sha.


    Little Ping An stared curiously with wide eyes, trying to reach out and grab her hands.


    Ding Sha dodged him and shot an irritated look at Xiao Jun, "You''re spoiling him rotten. Now he fake cries whenever he doesn''t get what he wants. He''s getting more and more unruly."


    Xiao Jun lookedpletely nonchnt, "He''s little now. When he grows up I can discipline him."


    Ding Sha shoved her cold, frozen hands straight into his clothes, "What are you saying?!"


    "I''m wrong, I''m wrong!" Xiao Jun grimaced from the cold, "I was joking, kidding! How could I ever hit our precious son?!"


    Ding Sha gave him an skeptical look.


    "He''s still small now, I can teach him when he''s older and can talk..." Xiao Jun mumbled.


    "You go ahead and spoil him then!" Ding Sha said, rolling her eyes.


    Xiao Jun grinned, then turned to see Little Ping An sucked on his fingers, staring at him unblinkingly. He puckered his lips and kissed Little Ping An''s milky soft baby cheeks, "Sweetheart!"


    Little Ping An let out little gurglingughs.


    The father-son bonding scene left Ding Sha''s face covered in amusement. She couldn''t help the smile spreading on her face as she picked up the ingredients she needed and stood up.


    "Out, out! You''re in the way here."


    Xiao Jun carried Little Ping An out, stomping in circles while making weird airne noises with his mouth.


    Ding Shaughed and shook her head.


    What a pair of kids.


    The chicken breast and beef were cut into small pieces and run through the food processor to mince them finely. The shrimp and fish were mashed into a paste, then everything was mixed together in a bowl with an egg yolk and stirred well.


    Ding Sha scooped out a small handful, put it in a ss bowl to steam until cooked, then mashed it up again to cool.


    The rest was packed up in cling wrap and frozen.


    Once the meat paste had cooled, she could bring it to Little Cat to eat.


    Ding Sha brought the meat puree to Little Cat, who was still hiding timidly in the corner.


    The cat food she''d left out before was somewhat eaten - she probably didn''t dare eat it or didn''t like the taste since she''d only taken a few bites.


    Ding Sha set down the meat puree in front of her, then moved the cat food bowl to a more spacious corner with the cat bed.


    Little Cat silently watched her do all this. After a while, she opened her mouth and let out a little "meow".


    Ding Sha turned back to look at her, pleasantly surprised.


    Little Cat let out another soft little meow.


    Ding Sha couldn''t help but say, "Go ahead and eat, it''s delicious!"


    Little Cat slowly lowered her head top the meat paste. Maybe she liked the taste because after licking her mouth, she nced at Ding Sha then started eagerly devouring it.


    Ding Sha crouched there watching until Little Cat finished eating before going over to collect the bowl. She''d set up a bowl of water for Little Cat to drink in the corner too. Seeing her groom herselfzily with a full belly, Ding Sha couldn''t resist wanting to stroke her.


    But before she could even stretch out her hand, Little Cat whipped her head around to look at her, eyes filled with wariness.


    Ding Sha knew she still didn''t feel safe enough here to settle in, so she drew back her hand. After chatting with Little Cat for a bit more, she left to do her own thing.


    Little Cat remained seated there watching as Ding Sha walked away.


    Herrge yellow-green eyes were calm andzy.


    Little Cat''s life became one where she could eat meat every other day. With caretakers now, her lifestyle was clearly morefortable than when she was wandering and starving.


    She would sprawlzily basking in the sun, and asionally rub against Ding Sha''s legs to try and get close to her. But as soon as Ding Sha wanted to squat down to pet or hug her, she would bolt away as if she was a stranger.


    Extremely heartless.


    Ding Sha sighed and continued her efforts at feeding Little Cat.


    After just a few days her angr little face had rounded out and her fur became sleek and glossy - clearly a well-cared for kitty.


    Ding Sha had thought it would take a long time before Little Cat warmed up to her, but suddenly one day, the cat became much more restless.


    She circled Ding Sha meowing, her cries no longer soft and coy, and she even bit Ding Sha''s pants leg.


    Ding Sha was puzzled by the change in behavior, "Egg Yolk, what''s the matter with you?"


    She had taken to calling the tortoiseshell Egg Yolk because the cat was especially fond of egg yolk, and would always deign to let Ding Sha pat her in exchange for some.


    Little Cat meowed anxiously at her, even looking pleadingly at Ding Sha with moist eyes.


    Then Ding Sha realized Little Cat was likely going intobor to give birth to kittens.


    She quickly took out the birthing room she had prepared in advance along with the necessary supplies. Little Cat seemed a little relieved when she went inside but continued yowling fretfully.


    Ding Sha was also extremely anxious and refused to leave Little Cat''s side.


    After struggling through the night, Little Cat finally gave birth to two kittens - one was a little tortoiseshell like herself, while the other seemed to be a little orange tabby.


    Ding Sha breathed a sigh of relief since cats were said to have more difficulty delivering fewer kittens. At least they had been born safely.


    Though she did wonder about the fur color of that "irresponsible" cat dad... Based on the kitten colors, he was most likely a huge ginger tomcat...

 Chapter 39: Kung Pao Chicken

    <h4>Chapter 39</h4>


    Raising the little kitten brought Ding Sha so much joy that she almost forgot about her own wailing son for a moment.


    Little Cat was also slowly bing close to her. Not only did she not hide from Ding Sha anymore, she would take the initiative to jump onto herp and purr softly while kneading and treading.


    She would also follow Ding Sha closely wherever she walked in the house, and even bring the kitten to Ding Sha, asking her to help keep an eye on her kitten.


    Ding Sha gleefully stroked the increasingly chubby Little Cat, listening to her sweet tender meows, squeezing her soft pink paw pads, feeling that life was just so at that moment.


    The two kittens changed day by day. At first when they were just born, they looked rather miserable, covered all over in amniotic fluid, appearing weak and skinny.


    But after careful care and rich feeding from Egg Yolk Mother and Grandma Ding Sha, the kittens started growing fur and meat, gradually bing round and cute.


    Not only would they let out soft helpless meows, they would also dash around recklessly "asking for trouble." Whenever they bumped into Ding Sha, they would flop over immediately, rolling their bellies wetly towards Ding Sha acting coquettishly. Their little paws would also extend into the air, treading milk unsteadily.


    They generously stretched out their tender pink little paw pads for Ding Sha to see.


    Ding Sha could then only "reluctantly" squat down to touch the poor little cuties, checking to see if they were "injured."


    Ping An stared nkly at Ding Sha¡¯s back whenever she squatted in the corner watching the kittens.


    Mommy doesn¡¯t love staring at him silly anymore these days!


    Xiao Jun was makingst-minute adjustments in the kitchen. They hadn¡¯t opened for business these past few days. The renovation at their new ce went faster than expected since they didn¡¯t need to paint over the walls.


    They would be able to move over in another three to four days.


    Tomorrow Gong Sister-inw and Zhuang Auntie were getting ready to move back too.


    After school started, Si Le would also need to prepare for his high school entrance exam.


    Little Stone was sent to preschool for full day care under his teacher which worked out perfectly.


    Ding Sha was still somewhat reluctant to leave the regr old customers and neighbors here. Every day when opening the door, they would smile and greet each other for a few sentences. asionally, some would alsoe to the shop to chat over drinks.


    Ding Sha was wandering aimlessly in the yard, filled with attachment when she suddenly heard the sister-inw from the hardware store next door calling her over the dividing wall of the yard.


    ¡°Sha Sha?! Sha Sha!¡±


    ¡°Oh I¡¯m here! Sister-inw? What¡¯s the matter?¡± Ding Sha also hurried over to stand by the wall.


    ¡°I heard you guys are moving away?¡± the woman asked.


    ¡°Yup, we¡¯re moving in a couple days,¡± Ding Sha replied.


    ¡°Is it because of that old granny? Stingy to the bone. When I first moved here, she didn¡¯t have anything in the room yet still wanted to raise the rent. I see that she¡¯s gone blind for money.


    ¡°Everyone else lowers the rent while she specifically raises it. She¡¯s so annoying every day. Oh right, I saw hering by earlier. Is she raising the rent for you guys too?¡±


    "Thendy wants to sell the ce. We can''t afford to buy it so we thought we''d move somewhere else," Ding Sha didn''t badmouth her after thinking about it for a bit.


    ¡°Moving works out too. That olddy always stirs up trouble all day,¡± the neighbor said. ¡°Where are you guys moving to? Leave us an address too. Old Li from our family loves your stewed meat to go with his wine. I¡¯lle again another day to show my support!¡±


    Ding Sha told her the address with a smile and the two chatted for a few more sentences before going their separate ways.


    Hearing faint knocking at the door, Ding Sha picked up Little Ping An who was arching his butt up and nudging around on the bed and went to open the door.


    The guest had red dyed hair and was a petite young man who appeared slightly stout. Although he had an arrogant demeanor, he was taken aback when he raised his head to see Ding Sha.


    ¡°Hello? We¡¯re closed for business today.¡± Thinking he was a customer here to eat, Ding Sha hurriedly exined.


    ¡°I didn¡¯te here to eat. I heard Xiao Jun is here. I¡¯m looking for Xiao Jun,¡± the youth shook his head.


    ¡°What are you looking for Jun for?¡± Ding Sha thought it was peculiar.


    This was the first time someone asked for Xiao Jun.


    ¡°I¡¯m called Wang Wenhao. My dad is Wang Zhengyang and my grandpa is Wang Hai,¡± the youth introduced himself.


    It took Ding Sha a moment to react but she smiled and weed Wang Wenhao in after she understood.


    ¡°Jun is in the back. Let me go get him. Have a seat first and wait for a bit.¡±


    Xiao Jun was also surprised when he heard Wang Zhengyang¡¯s son was looking for him. ¡°Looking for me? What does he want with me?¡±


    "You don''t think... he wants the recipe right?"


    "Don''t know," Ding Sha shook her head. "If he asks you for it, you still have to call Mr. Wang first."


    "Let''s go take a look first," Xiao Jun put down what was in his hands and walked out.


    "Hello, I''m Xiao Jun," Xiao Jun stood in front of him.


    "Hello," the youth looked Xiao Jun up and down. "I''m Wang Wenhao."


    "What can I do for you?" Xiao Jun cut straight to the chase.


    "I heard from my dad that he gave you our family recipes so I came to see if you''re worthy," Wang Wenhao smirked.


    "So what now?" Xiao Jun only felt baffled. "Are you taking the recipes back?"


    "Make me a dish - Kung Pao Chicken," Wang Wenhao suddenly said.


    Xiao Jun nced at him, somewhat annoyed. "Sorry, don''t know how to make it."


    Wang Wenhao couldn''t believe it. "You don''t even know how to make Kung Pao Chicken? How can you call yourself a chef?"


    "What business is it of yours?" Xiao Jun retorted back with crossed arms.


    Unexpectedly, Wang Wenhao didn''t get mad. "I just asked for a Kung Pao Chicken. You''ve cooked for my grandpa, grandma, and dad. Why won''t you cook for me?"


    Without a second thought, Xiao Jun tly refused. "Because I don''t feel like it."


    "Jun," Ding Sha pulled him. "Don''t be like this..."


    After all, they did get his family recipes...


    Xiao Jun clicked his tongue in irritation but still listened to Ding Sha.


    "Wait for it!" And with that, he turned and walked into the kitchen.


    He cut the deboned chicken legs into pieces and added salt, sugar, pepper powder to season before beating in egg and cornstarch then drizzling in some oil and mixing well.


    Then he made a Kung Pao sauce using appropriate salt, sugar, vinegar and soy sauce with cornstarch.


    He heated oil in a wok until hot and added the chicken pieces to sear then scooped out.


    Leaving just a bit of oil at the bottom, he tossed in minced garlic and dried chili peppers bringing out the fragrance before adding the green onion segments to stir fry. After adding back the cooked chicken pieces, he sprinkled some hot chili oil and poured the Kung Pao sauce over, mixing well.


    Lastly he added roasted peanuts and gave it a few quick stirs.


    A aromatic, spicy and appetizing te of Kung Pao Chicken was ready.


    Xiao Jun set the dish down in front of Wang Wenhao. "Eat up."


    Wang Wenhao looked at the te. "Sichuan style?"


    "Mm," Xiao Jun wasn''t surprised he could tell given he was from a family of chefs after all. Even though he was just a kid, he would still have basic knowledge.


    Wang Wenhao didn''t say anything else and picked up his chopsticks for a mouthful. It tasted nothing like any Kung Pao Chicken he had eaten before. The chicken was tender and juicy with a bit of crunch and the thick Kung Pao sauce coated the peanuts as well.


    Before he knew it, he had finished the entire te!


    "How is it? Am I worthy?" Xiao Jun asked leaning against the wall with crossed arms.


    Wang Wenhao fell silent before suddenly standing up and walking over to Xiao Jun.


    Xiao Jun watched him warily. "What are you trying to do?"


    Without a word, Wang Wenhao solemnly sped his fist. "Master! Please teach me to cook!"

 Chapter 40: Spicy Cabbage Soup

    <h4>Chapter 40</h4>


    "Our family has always had a single descendant. My grandfather wanted to teach my dad, and my dad did want to learn, but he didn''t have the talent for it," Wang Wenhao shrugged.


    "Later my grandfather said he would teach me, but I didn''t want to learn. I grew up in the kitchen ever since I was little, and my ssmates would say I smelled like kitchen fumes and didn''t want to y with me, saying that working in the kitchen was only for little girls."


    "Although I knew they were wrong, there was nothing I could do to keep studying cooking. I always felt ufortable inside."


    "Grandfather was very disappointed, but he still hoped I woulde back and learn," Wang Wenhao had aplicated expression. "But I really didn''t want to learn. Now when I think back on it, it was just childish joking between us kids."


    "But deep down, I would instinctively avoid this issue."


    "Then why did youe back here?" Xiao Jun asked after listening to him finish.


    "I guess I didn''t want to regret it in the future."


    "I''m graduating tomorrow. But whenever I think about what job I should do in the future, my first reaction is always what grandfather said, inherit the Wang family cuisine and carry it forward."


    "It''s just a pity it''s a bitte for grandfather to know about this."


    "We apprentices don''t get paid much here, and the work is tiring," Xiao Jun suddenly stood up. "Are you sure you want to stay?"


    "I''m sure!" Wang Wenhao happily replied.


    "Alright then. Come help me move in a few days. You can live in the shop or rent a ce outside, there are many rooms in the new home." Xiao Jun looked at his unruly hair again. "Remember to dye your hair back."


    "Huh?" Wang Wenhao reluctantly touched his head. "Is there a restriction on hair color and style here? I thought there weren''t any."


    "There aren''t," Xiao Jun walked back. "But it hurts my eyes looking at it."


    Wang Wenhao was left speechless for a moment.


    "Go on back home. The shop''s closed recently, I''ll let you know when we open," Xiao Jun added.


    "Sure!" Wang Wenhao left happily without taking offense. "I''ll go get my hair done."


    Xiao Jun waved his hand without another word.


    "What''s up?" Ding Sha asked when he came back.


    "Nothing much," Xiao Jun briefly replied. "Just took on a young apprentice."


    Ding Sha said a few words before letting it go.


    Because little Ping An was writhing around in bed, and had actually rolled over!


    "Did you see that?!" Ding Sha was so excited she was nearly screaming. "Ping An can roll over now!"


    "I saw it!" Xiao Jun was also rather thrilled, and even regretted not taking out his phone earlier to record his good son''s first time rolling over.


    The only one remaining calm was probably Ping An himself. He looked at his mom and dad, babbled some baby sounds only he could understand, and rolled over again.


    Ding Sha was too emotional to speak, while Xiao Jun swiftly took out his phone to start recording little Ping An without even blinking.


    Ping An smacked his lips together sleepily, seeming tired. He yawned once then settled down with eyes half-open, looking extremely cute.


    "Alright, let him sleep. It''s his regr nap time," Ding Sha covered Ping An with a small nket and pulled Xiao Jun outside.


    Xiao Jun was still reluctant. "I didn''t get to record it."


    "You can do it next time," Ding Sha said. "Hurry and tidy things up, we need to start moving stuff over bit by bit. There''s so much, I don''t want to keep dragging this out..."


    "Sure," Xiao Jun put his phone away.


    Ding Sha took out a piece of paper from her pocket. "I wrote down the order for moving things each day, it''ll be easier to organize things after getting there. We just need uncle Wei to make the furniture."


    "Slowly, no rush," Xiao Jun pushed the recliner outside. "We can get the big furniture shipped over in a truck."


    Early next morning, Xiao Jun got up and started loading things into the car. Ding Sha had to stay home with the kid, so Xiao Jun called Wang Wenhao over to help move things.


    "Master, what should I move?" Wang Wenhao asked energetically with his new buzz cut hairstyle, looking rather spirited.


    Xiao Jun pointed to the things that needed moving.


    Wang Wenhao was shocked. "That much?"


    "What did you expect? It''s called moving for a reason," Xiao Jun retorted.


    The two worked up a good sweat moving things while Ding Sha helped pass items from the side.


    Little Ping An was still sleeping. Ding Sha pushed out the baby crib for him to sleep in the lobby where she could keep an eye on him.


    A girl watched them for a bit. "Bossdy, are you guys moving?"


    "That''s right, we''re moving away," Ding Sha found the girl''s eyebrows that were peeking out from her mask a little familiar.


    "Ah! Then does that mean I won''t get to eat here anymore?!" the girl eximed loudly.


    Only then did Ding Sha remember who she was.


    It was Du Rourou.


    Du Rourou seemed a little disappointed. "I thought that after the pandemic I''d get toe here for big meals every day... Turns out you guys are moving away..."


    Ding Sha reassured her, "It''s not like we''re going out of business. If nothing else, you can always order takeout in the future..."


    "Takeout doesn''t taste as good!" Du Rourou insisted.


    She kept asking for the new shop''s address. After Ding Sha told her, she saw the girl''s eyes go wide.


    "Ahhhhh my grandparents live around that area!" Du Rourou was happy again. "I can go every day!"


    Ding Sha found her quite cute and couldn''t helpughing.


    Only after getting excited did Du Rourou hesitantly ask, "Bossdy, can I order something to eat today?"


    "What would you like?" Ding Sha didn''t turn her down.


    Du Rourou thought for a bit. "I haven''t had much of an appetitetely. I''d like something nice and sour and spicy..."


    Ding Sha considered things then suggested, "The pickled mustard greens have been pretty good recently. Want to try some pickled mustard green soup?"


    "Sounds great!" Du Rourou eagerly nodded.


    Ding Sha smiled as she scooped some rice into a bowl for her. "I''ll make an exception and let you eat here today, but takeout only from now on."


    Du Rourou thanked her, then couldn''t wait to pick up a spoon and take a sip of soup.


    The taste was smooth and pleasantly sour and spicy, whetting her appetite.


    Du Rourou felt her appetite that had been blocked up the past few days instantly get cleared.


    Ding Sha sat holding a sleepy Ping An, watching Du Rourou eat and ying with Ping An from time to time.


    "What a beautiful baby..." Du Rourou said admiringly and enviously.


    Ding Sha smiled and thanked her.


    Before Du Rourou could finish eating, Gong Sister-inw and Zhuang Auntie walked in, both carrying bags.


    As soon as Zhuang Auntie came in, she threw down her things and made a beeline for little Ping An.


    "Yo, isn''t this little Ping An! Auntie''s missed you so much!"

 Chapter 41: Little Lion Head

    <h4>Chapter 41</h4>


    "Come give grandma a hug!"


    After washing her hands, Zhuang Auntie hurried over and gently touched Little Ping An''s face.


    Seeing a stranger suddenly, Little Ping An was a little scared and shrunk back into Ding Sha''s arms.


    Zhuang Auntie also drew her hand back, her face full of kindness, "So handsome!"


    "You''re back?" Ding Sha was also quite happy.


    "Yeah, Da Zhuang drove us back," Zhuang Auntie smiled.


    "Da Zhuang heard that you had a baby, and prepared some things that his family produced, they''re all pretty safe, don''t worry." Gong Sister-inw said, tidying up the things behind her anding over to see Little Ping An.


    "He looks so healthy and sturdy!" Gong Sister-inw hadn''t seen Little Ping An for a while and said somewhat emotionally.


    "Of course, eating eight meals a day, crying for food after a while, he''s eaten into a little fat pig!" Ding Sha tucked Little Ping An''s clothes.


    "It¡¯s good that he has a big appetite, less likely to get sick!" Zhuang Auntie thought Little Ping An looked better and better.


    "Where is Brother Da Zhuang? Is he outside too?" Ding Sha looked towards the door.


    "He went to park the car, parking is difficult around here. I pointed him to a ce to find parking himself," Gong Sister-inw waved her hand.


    "It''s just nice to have Brother Da Zhuang stay for a meal," Ding Sha stood up, "There are still a lot of ingredients in the kitchen out back."


    "He was hoping to stay for a meal," Gong Sister-inwughed, "When he''s home, he can''t wait, talking every day about the dishes from our shop. As soon as he heard we wereing over, he was exceptionally eager."


    Ding Shaughed when she heard this.


    Du Rourou bit her spoon somewhat enviously, ¡°It¡¯s so nice. Bossdy, are you recruiting part-timers? I can do it!¡±


    Ding Sha was stunned for a moment, ¡°But we¡¯re moving away...¡±


    "School hasn''t started yet for us...it¡¯s still uncertain when school starts...it¡¯s possible school won¡¯t open at all...¡± Du Rourou said, ¡°Even if school opens, it¡¯ll be online sses. I¡¯m already in my third year, there aren¡¯t many sses... "


    Before Ding Sha could reply, Du Rourou went on, ¡°Plus my grandparents live right there, so I wouldn¡¯t have to worry at all!¡±


    Ding Sha thought about it. She did need a part-timer; Little Ping An needed someone with him at all times, there was only Xiao Jun in the kitchen, even with Zhuang Auntie helping out, Gong Sister-inw would be overwhelmed.


    "Then let''s talk about it again once we''ve moved," Ding Sha didn''t reject or agree, "Could you give me your contact info?"


    "Sure, sure!" Du Rourou quickly reported her phone number to Ding Sha.


    When Xiao Jun came back, Ding Sha had already started getting Zhuang Auntie to prepare the ingredients.


    Da Zhuang was just standing at the side with a silly, honest smile, teasing Little Ping An. With no reason to go out during the pandemic, Da Zhuang hadn''t even bothered shaving and had grown a full beard. He made faces at Little Ping An, wriggling his brows and pulling expressions.


    At first Little Ping An frowned, seemingly disgusted. Then he made little giggling sounds showing his amusement.


    Having worked up a sweat, Wang Wenhaoy limply on the table panting heavily without regard for appearances. Xiao Jun frowned at him, ¡°Haven¡¯t you practiced flipping pans before? With strength like that can you handle woks?¡±


    Wang Wenhao paused for a moment, somewhat guilty, ¡°I practiced when I was little...¡±


    Meaning he didn¡¯t practice now.


    Xiao Jun silently discarded the ns he had prepared in his heart and started over from zero.


    ¡°Wenhao, stay and eat with us,¡± Ding Sha said from the doorway. ¡°It¡¯ll be lively with more people tonight.¡±


    Wang Wenhao blinked his eyes, ¡°Mother-inw, these special times call for no gatherings or shared meals, we should implement separate dining.¡±


    Ding Sha was stunned for a moment.


    Xiao Jun grabbed him by the cor and marched him outside. ¡°It¡¯s gettingte, hurry home.¡±


    Wang Wenhao looked up at the zing midday sun overhead and fell silent.


    Ding Sha stood smiling in the doorway. ¡°Jun, stop teasing. Come in you two, neither of you have masks on, can¡¯t have you arrestedter.¡±


    Xiao Jun silently dragged Wang Wenhao back inside.


    Ding Sha took out a te, ¡°We¡¯ve prepared separate servings on tes.¡±


    Wang Wenhao had only meant to jest. He hadn¡¯t expected Ding Sha to actually prepare for separate dining and immediately conceded defeat.


    ¡°Mother-inw, you¡¯re too amazing!¡±


    Ding Sha rubbed her head. This was Da Zhuang¡¯s idea, to eat separately for safety.


    Lunch was prepared veryvishly.


    Six adults and one baby in total.


    Seven dishes and one soup.


    The little one busily sucked away at his form.


    But the most popr was the Lion¡¯s Head meatballs Ding Sha had personally cooked.


    This time Ding Sha used fatty pork belly with a ratio of four fattiness to six leanness. She removed the skin then chopped the meat into filling.


    Hand chopped filling would taste much better than machine processed.


    She added green onion, ginger, shaoxing wine to the meat, then salt, starch, white pepper powder. She used her hands to mix it into the meat.


    After mixing evenly she added more green onion, ginger, and a bit of flour to continue hitting and mixing.


    Finally she beat in an egg and continued hitting until it became a sticky paste, then added flour, five spice powder, and soy sauce to adjust the taste.


    At the end she diced fresh water chestnuts and lotus root to mix in.


    She heated oil in a wok, added green onion, ginger and garlic to infuse the oil. Then she added some soy sauce and water, old soy sauce and spices, finally pouring in some shaoxing wine, white pepper and a little sugar.


    Once the soup was boiling she turned down the heat. Using her thumb and index finger or a small spoon, she took portions of the meat paste and rolled them into little balls, dropping them into the soup.


    Then she used low heat to slowly simmer for an hour before taking it off the heat.


    Though cooked in water, it was as delicious as traditional red braised lion¡¯s head meatballs.


    With one bite the texture was both tender and springy, and full of vor.


    Healthy and tasty. The bowl was quickly cleaned out between everyone.


    It had been a long time since they¡¯d eaten such a lively meal with so many people. Xiao Jun and Ding Sha both felt somewhat sentimental.


    Xiao Jun looked at Ding Sha next to him, smiling gently with Little Ping An in her arms. He was filled withplex emotions.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Ding Sha noticed his gaze. Though she asked, she still reached out and inteced her fingers with his.


    ¡°Nothing, just happy,¡± Xiao Jun said.


    Xiao Jun suddenly took out a small box from his pocket.


    Everyone looked over at them. Xiao Jun said, ¡°I never dared wish for such a happy life before, it always felt unreal.¡±


    ¡°All these years it had only been the two of us. Though I never felt lonely, I still felt I owed you, making you stay with me as the entric loners in others¡¯ eyes.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m very happy with our current life. Thank you Sha Sha for always being with me, waiting for me, giving me a perfect home.¡±


    ¡°But I feel guilty.¡±


    Xiao Jun¡¯s eyes grew red. ¡°I greedily take warmth from you, but it seems I keep bringing you unhappiness¡ªnot being there when you were pregnant, letting you have a child at such a young age, it¡¯s all my fault.¡±


    ¡°I owe you a lot,¡± Xiao Jun said. ¡°But I want to slowly make it up to you.¡±


    Xiao Jun stood up and opened the box. Inside was a ring, with a dazzling diamond set into the tinum band.


    ¡°Sha Sha, will you marry me?¡±


    Xiao Jun looked only at Ding Sha¡¯s eyes as he slowly lowered to one knee. His eyes were brimming with intense, fiery ardor overflowing with love.


    Ding Sha¡¯s nose soured.


    She currently faced the sky bare-faced, smelling of oil smoke, her postpartum belly not yet t, tightly cradling their child.


    ¡°I...¡±


    She choked up.


    ¡°I...will.¡±

 Chapter 42: Sesame Paste sugar Cake

    <h4>Chapter 42</h4>


    On Ding Sha''s ring finger, there was a beautiful ring, and Xiao Jun said it was an engagement ring.


    In the future, there would be wedding rings, five-year anniversary rings, ten-year anniversary rings, and even fifty-year anniversary rings.


    What Ding Sha desired was not the ring itself, but rather the anticipation of spending fifty years together with him.


    The process of moving was a massive undertaking. Their own car, Da Zhuang''s car, and the movingpany''s trucks were all deployed.


    Theybored tirelessly, moving for nearly a whole day.


    It was their first time going out together in such a grand manner, and Ding Sha was so scared that she hid in his arms.


    She clung tightly to Ding Sha''s neck with both hands and refused to let go. Whenever Ding Sha put her down, she would start crying.


    Ding Sha had no choice but to carry little Ping An around, walking back and forth, soothing him for nearly a whole day.


    By dinnertime, Ding Sha''s wrist was so sore that she could hardly lift the chopsticks.


    Upon hearing the reason, Xiao Jun''s face turned gloomy. He first fed Ding Sha her meal before retreating to the bedroom, holding Ping An and talking for a full hour, even though he wasn''t sure if Ping An could understand. Only then did he reluctantly stop.


    Ping An was already drifting off to sleep from listening.


    Apanying Ping An in experiencing the stress of moving were Little Cat DanHuang and her kittens, who meowed loudly while squeezed inside the cat carrier.


    When they arrived at their new home, they were too afraid toe out. They stayed inside, observing for quite a while before timidly sticking out their paws to test the waters.


    The interior of the shop was much more refined than their previous one. The furniture made by Uncle Wei was being gradually transported over. The kitchen could amodate plenty of ingredients and tools, and they even had several private dining rooms. Their living area had expanded significantly as well.


    Xiao Jun flipped through the calendar and set an opening day.


    The winter jasmine flowers in the courtyard were blooming. Seizing the opportunity while little Ping An took his afternoon nap, Ding Sha picked up a small basket and gathered a basketful of winter jasmine flowers.


    The menu for the shop hadn''t been made yet, so Ding Sha thought of using the flower paper as the base for it.


    Xiao Jun assisted her on the side.


    Actually, there was no need for him to assist. Xiao Jun just wanted to be close to Ding Sha.


    These past few days had been busy with many people around. Xiao Jun even felt like he hadn''t seen Ding Sha in a long time. When everyone finally went off to attend to their own tasks, he would dawdle and run to Ding Sha''s side.


    Ding Sha held a piece of A4-sized white paper and joked, "In ancient times, people dyed flower paper to express their emotions and convey poetry. I''m doing it to convey food."


    As she spoke, her hands kept moving. When the paper finally dried, faint yellow stars appeared sporadically at the edges or in the center, looking extremely beautiful.


    Xiao Jun fetched a brush and ink, and Ding Sha first wrote down a fewmon dishes. Then she put the paper away, saying, "I''ll write the rest another day."


    Xiao Jun wanted to set off some firecrackers, but considering that they weren''t allowed to set them off here, he had to abandon the idea.


    On the day of the grand opening, they felt a bit nervous, but business turned out to be much better than they expected.


    Many old customers came with smiles on their faces.


    "I''ve been longing for your dishes for a long time, but I used to live far away, so it was hard toe and eat. Now, it''s different. I''ve moved closer to your ce, so I have toe and have a meal."


    "I''ve been looking forward to it for so long, and your shop is finally open! Even if I had toe from far away, I would stille!"


    "Hahaha, me too! Even if your family moves to Mars, I''ll have to take a rocket to join you for a meal..."


    Among them, they also weed a special guest.


    Hu Zhilin, the editor of a gourmet magazine, came with a small gift.


    "Editor Hu!" Ding Sha was quite happy to see him.


    "I happened toe today. I heard from the neighbors that your family moved here, so I came to visit," Hu Zhilin looked at the baby in Ding Sha''s arms.


    "This is the little baby, so adorable," Hu Zhilin''s eyes softened. He really liked children. "She looks like a promising child."


    Which mother doesn''t like others praising her child? Ding Sha happily led him to sit down and handed him today''s menu.


    "Mr. Hu, take a look at what you''d like to eat today?"


    Hu Zhilin came for this purpose as well. He looked at the menu and said, "I came here for another interview. During this special period, we mainly work in the form of electronic magazines."


    Ding Sha nodded, "Of course, you can choose whatever you like to eat. I''ll call Xiao Jun out in a moment."


    Hu Zhilin looked at the menu in his hand and said, "I''ll have beef noodles, oil-drizzled fish, sweet and sour pork, and also a sugar cake."


    Ding Sha joked, "I didn''t realize you have such a sweet tooth."


    "But can you finish all of these by yourself?"


    "It''s not just me," Hu Zhilin shook his head slightly, "My partner''s student is interning with me, and she loves sweets."


    "Oh, I see. I''ll have the kitchen prepare them. How soon will she arrive?" Ding Sha paused.


    "She''ll be here soon," Hu Zhilin said.


    Ding Sha tore the order sheet and handed it to Wang Wenhao, who promptly took it and started preparing the dishes.


    The sugar cake can also be called sesame paste cake because it has a thickyer of sesame paste inside, making it fragrant and rich in vor.


    Mix five to six taels of water with one catty of flour to knead a rtively soft dough, making sure it''s in the optimal state.


    "Remember to add some oil to the dough. It will make it more fragrant and crispy when cooked," Xiao Jun, busy stir-frying, reminded Wang Wenhao to check the dough.


    To everyone''s surprise, Wang Wenhao made the dough very well, especially the steamed buns and pancakes, which turned out soft and delicious.


    "I added it, Master," Wang Wenhao replied with a smile.


    Let the dough ferment for about ten to twenty minutes.


    Then roll it out into a slightly thick pancake shape and spread a thickyer of sesame paste on top.


    The sauce used is Beijing-style sesame paste, which is more fragrant than pure sesame paste.


    However, before making it each time, they had to ask the customers if they were allergic to peanuts.


    After evenly spreading the thick sauce, sprinkle fine brown sugar on top, and finally roll it up from one side.


    Roll it into a roll, wrapping the sesame paste and brown sugar inside.


    Cut it into two pieces and seal the edges carefully to prevent the sauce from leaking out.


    Finally, tten the pancake into a thick disc, spread some oil on the griddle, and ce the pancake on it.


    Cover it and cook for a while, then flip it over until both sides be crispy, slightly charred. The pancake is ready to be served.


    Cut it into small pieces, and Wang Wenhao handed a piece to Xiao Jun. "How is it, Master?"


    Xiao Jun tasted it and said, "It''s good."


    Wang Wenhao ced the sugar cake on the serving counter with light footsteps.


    When Ding Sha brought the dishes, she saw that the intern was already sitting across from Hu Zhilin.


    The girl was very beautiful, and her attire exuded a sense of tastefulness.


    "Wow! Sesame sugar cake! And my favorite sweet and sour pork! Brother Hu, I truly adore you!"


    As Ding Sha left, she couldn''t help but notice the girl''s unabashed happiness.


    She furrowed her brow, feeling a bit ufortable. Since she was Hu''s student and loved one, why was she speaking to him with such an intimate and casual tone?


    The two quickly finished the food on the table. Hu Zhilin settled the bill as usual and then waited for Xiao Jun''s interview.


    "How was the food just now?" Xiao Jun helped Ding Sha to sit down.


    "It was delicious! Especially the sugar cake! It was crispy and fragrant, with a delightful sweetness!" the girl eximed eagerly.


    Hu Zhilin had a gentle expression. "Indeed, I feel that this time the dishes were even more delicious than thest time I came."


    "However, I still didn''t get to taste the dishes made by the boss herself. It''s a bit of a pity."


    The interview proceeded quickly and pleasantly. When Ding Sha saw them off, she noticed that the girl was holding onto Hu Zhilin''s sleeve, and Hu Zhilin instinctively protected her in his mannerisms.


    Xiao Jun went back to talk to Wang Wenhao, while Ding Sha stood at the doorway and saw Hu Zhilin leaning down to fasten the seatbelt for the girl sitting in the passenger seat of a car not far away.


    Ding Sha crossed her arms, and all her goodwill toward Hu Zhilin vanished.


    "I wonder if Hu knows about his lover''s knowledge..."


    "She should know."


    A voice from beside her sounded unfamiliar.

 Chapter 43: Untitled

    <h4>Chapter 43</h4>


    Ding Sha was startled and looked over to the side. It was a young and refined looking handsome man.


    When the man saw that he had startled her, he smiled apologetically, "Sorry for scaring you."


    "It''s nothing," Ding Sha shook her head. Remembering what he had just said, she asked, "Do you know Mr. Hu?"


    "I probably do," the man smiled faintly without much emotion. Looking up at the sign of the shop, he said, "It''s a restaurant, huh..."


    "Would you like toe in and sit down?" Seeing his unhappy expression, Ding Sha offered.


    "Sure," the man readily agreed and followed Ding Sha inside. First he saw Gong Sister-inw holding Little Ping An, and his expression softened, "What a cute little baby."


    "Yes, he''s my son," Ding Sha said with a smile, greeting Little Ping An, who immediately smiled back with two little dimples.


    "So adorable," the man said a little enviously.


    "Would you like something to eat?" Ding Sha handed him a menu.


    The man flipped through it and then closed it again. "What did Hu Zhilin and Sun Yuzhu eat just now?"


    Ding Sha hesitated for a moment. "Would you like to order the same thing?"


    The man shook his head. "Just wanted a reference."


    Ding Sha told him what they had ordered. The manughed softly after listening, "I won''t order those. I don''t like sweet stuff. I like spicy food."


    The man then ordered a dish called Hairy Blood Cubes.


    "Just this. I don''t eat much, ordering more would be wasteful," he said.


    Zhuang Auntie took the order slip to the kitchen. Ding Sha thought for a moment, then poured a cup of red date cow milk drink and brought it to him. "How''s this?"


    The man ah-ed. "Pretty good...I guess."


    Ding Sha pushed the milk to him. "Would you like to chat? You look very upset."


    The man touched his own face. "Is it that obvious?"


    "A little. Or maybe it''s because I''ve had a baby now so I''m more sensitive," Ding Sha smiled.


    "I... My name is Lin Jiayu," the man said slowly. "I know Hu Zhilin and Sun Yuzhu."


    That was all he said before falling silent.


    Ding Sha was curious but also knew not to pry into others'' sad affairs. She was about to get up and leave when she heard Lin Jiayu speak again.


    "We were together for a long time, since university."


    "We had a great rtionship, loved each other very much. Even during the most difficult times we never gave up on each other. Just didn''t expect it to seem a little ironic now."


    "They all say it''s easy to go through adversity hand in hand, but hard to enjoy prosperity together. I didn''t believe it before, now I feel there''s some truth to it."


    Lin Jiayu still looked calm andposed. His gentle, jade-like voice showed that he was a very cultured person.


    Even after finding out about this embarrassing matter, he did not lose his temper or show any distress. He just smiled at Ding Sha with reddened eyes.


    Lin Jiayu gave a self-deprecatingugh. "I won''t say any more, or it''ll get vulgar. After all, it''s just another clich¨¦d, dog-blood love story."


    "Former lovers fall out of love, stories of three people together rarely end well."


    Lin Jiayu exhaled. "I''m actually quite lucky to find out about this not toote, before stupidly and blindly thinking I was happy spending a whole lifetime this way."


    Hearing this, Ding Sha knew Lin Jiayu didn''t needforting or sympathy, he just needed some time to digest it himself.


    He was gentle yet strong enough inside not to torment himself over such an indignity, but to struggle out of the mire at the first chance.


    Ding Sha began to admire him.


    To be honest, if this happened to her, she would probably wallow in pain.


    "Sorry for rambling," Lin Jiayu said with an apologeticugh.


    Ding Sha shook her head and went to the back kitchen. She had tried baking cakes in the morning, failing a few times but also seeding.


    Ding Sha brought out a mousse cake, the only one she could make without baking.


    "Have some cake, please," Ding Sha ced the cake in front of him.


    "Thank you," Lin Jiayu did not refuse. Perhaps the sweet-averse man also wanted to draw somefort from the dessert.


    The Hairy Blood Cubes were served up very quickly.


    Lin Jiayu took out his phone to take pictures. "It looks great, seems I''ve lucked out in finding such a good restaurant."


    As he spoke, he picked up his chopsticks and grabbed a slice of lunch meat first. "Very fragrant and tender. I haven''t found lunch meat this good on the market. Did you make it yourselves?"


    "Awesome," Ding Sha gave him a thumbs up. "We did make it ourselves. It has chicken and beef, so the texture is quite special."


    Lin Jiayu''s interest was piqued. He had only wanted to know what those two people ate here, didn''t expect there would be such a nice surprise.


    He went on to grab some beef tripe. Crispy and bouncy, not the least bit old. "The heat is just right."


    Then he picked up some duck blood. Unexpectedly there were two kinds here, one being themon kind often seen in the market. It was cooked thoroughly and very spicy and savory.


    The other was lessmon, more often seen in Sichuan hot pot ces, irregrly shaped cold fresh duck blood. Extremely tender and aromatic, it would shred under the gentlest poke of chopsticks, with an exceptionally fresh, smooth texture.


    Even the bean sprouts were not mushy but wonderfully vored while keeping a crisp, tender bite.


    Lin Jiayu''s chopsticks did not stop.


    His mouth turned red from the food. The Hairy Blood Cubes disappeared quickly while the prepared rice was barely touched.


    "You...can really take spicy food..." Ding Sha did not expect him to handle such spicy food so well. Her family used specially purchased Sichuan peppers to make such Sichuan cuisine. At those spice levels ordinary people would start sweating after a few bites and look for water.


    Yet the refined looking Lin Jiayu seemed to be eating steadily without pause. Ding Sha was quite impressed.


    Lin Jiayu wiped his mouth. "It''s really good, I think I''lle again."


    He lookedpletely recovered, not a trace left of the gloomy, depressed heartache and distress from earlier.


    Ding Sha felt a little happy. "That''s good if you like it, you''re wee back anytime."


    Lin Jiayu started on the little cake.


    "The cake is delicious too," he finished that as well.


    "Hopefully next time Ie, if you''re selling cakes, can I preorder a blueberry one?" Lin Jiayu asked. "I really like blueberries."


    "Of course." Ding Sha gave him a business card. "You can call me in advance."


    Ding Sha couldn''t help wanting to give him some special treatment, because he looked like a delicate precious little master, refined as beautiful jade.


    How could anyone bear to hurt him?


    Ding Sha still couldn''t figure it out even after Lin Jiayu had walked far away.


    Xiao Jun came out and asked, "What is it? Who was that?"


    He was very jealous. Why was Ding Sha treating that man so differently...


    Ding Sha looked at him. For some reason she suddenly felt a little unhappy and red at him. "What''s it to you?"


    Xiao Jun: "......"


    What''s up with me...??

 Chapter 44: Stewed Milk with Honey Osmanthus Flowers

    <h4>Chapter 44</h4>


    Ding Sha did not expect that Hu Zhilin woulde again the next day.


    This time he looked very different.


    The colors of his tie and suit did not match, his hair was messy on his forehead, not carefully styled as usual, and his customary calm andposure was nowhere to be seen.


    There was even some blue stubble on his chin that hadn''t been cleanly shaved.


    After he came in, he hurriedly found Ding Sha, ¡°May I ask if there was a man wearing a brown coat, about five foot eight, very good-looking who came by yesterday?¡±


    Ding Sha immediately thought of Lin Jiayu and became somewhat wary, ¡°Why are you asking about this?¡±


    ¡°It looks like he dide by......He came by......¡± Hu Zhilin had an expression that was both crying andughing, looking somewhat distraught.


    ¡°If hees again, can you please call me?¡±


    Hu Zhilin earnestly pleaded.


    Ding Sha felt bewildered, what did Hu Zhilin want with Lin Jiayu?


    She asked this, but Hu Zhilin showed difficulty in answering and did not say anything.


    Just then, she heard Lin Jiayu¡¯s voice sound from behind her, ¡°No need to call you, I¡¯m right here.¡±


    Hu Zhilin almost immediately turned around. When he saw Lin Jiayu, he had a very strange expression.


    It seemed to be relief, and also pain.


    "You came."


    Lin Jiayu found a ce to sit down without answering him, but smiled and said to Ding Sha, "Excuse me, can we get two cups of that milk from yesterday. We might need to borrow your ce to talk about some things."


    Ding Sha smiled and nodded, then pulled Gong Sister-inw back into the kitchen.


    "Jiayu ......" Hu Zhilin was eager to speak but did not know what to say, and could only stop there.


    "How long have we known each other?" Lin Jiayu said lightly.


    "Fifteen years." Hu Zhilin reflexively answered.


    "Fifteen years... it''s almost half my life..." Lin Jiayu lowered his head, "Too long..."


    "I''m sorry......" Hu Zhilin looked ashamed.


    "You really should apologize, but whether to forgive or not has nothing to do with you," Lin Jiayu had a faint smile, "After all, in my opinion, what happened between you and Yu Zhu was truly disgusting."


    Hu Zhilin looked even more ashamed.


    He seemed flustered trying to exin, but gave up when the words were at his lips, ¡°You¡¯re right......¡±


    "Are you going to talk to me about the supremacy of true love?" Lin Jiayu''s fingers touched the slightly hot cup wall, "Don''t do that, it makes me want to vomit."


    "We''ve been ssmates since high school, known each other for so many years, I never imagined you would do something like this, let alone that the other person would be Yu Zhu."


    "I''m a little curious," Lin Jiayu suddenlyughed, "Who made the first move, you or Yu Zhu? Can I know?"


    "It was me......" Hu Zhilin said.


    "It was within my expectations," Lin Jiayu said, "In fact, who made the first move isn''t really important, because I know you would say it was you no matter what."


    "Getting this kind of answer doesn''t surprise me, and also proves you haven''t be too much of a stranger."


    All of Lin Jiayu''s grief and distress seemed to have already been digested yesterday. He wore a decent coat with an aloof expression, unlike someone who had been betrayed.


    Hu Zhilin''s expression was flustered and upset. Ding Sha felt it was somewhat funny seeing this.


    Why would the person who made the mistake have such a look of being wronged?


    It was ridiculous.


    "Does Yu Zhu know you came over?"


    Hu Zhilin shook his head.


    "Zhilin, let''s not contact each other anymore in the future." Lin Jiayu said.


    "I hope to never have a trace of you in the ces I am."


    "...Okay." Hu Zhilin was silent for a while before agreeing.


    "As for Yu Zhu, I will contact her myself," said Lin Jiayu lowering his eyes, "There''s one thing that is a bit excessive, but I still want to bring up. I really like this shop and wille often. You..."


    "I understand..." Hu Zhilin interrupted him hurriedly, "After I finish this interview, I won''te again..."


    "Thank you." Lin Jiayu gave a faint smile.


    Hu Zhilin sat on the stool, fingers clenched tightly together, as if wanting to say something.


    "Jiayu......I......" Hu Zhilin struggled to speak, "I didn''t mean... to hurt you...."


    "But I saw you and Yu Zhu together." Lin Jiayu interrupted him. "I think there is no doubt about this matter. What else do you want to argue?"


    "I''m not..."


    As an editor able to work literary magic with his writing, Hu Zhilin found that he was now clumsy and unable to express what he wanted at this moment.


    His usually straight back also hunched over.


    Lin Jiayu was very calm. "Don''t me me for being heartless."


    "No no no...it was my mistake..." Hu Zhilin shook his head.


    "Then that''s it." Lin Jiayu stopped talking.


    Hu Zhilin raised his head to look at him several times, wanting to say something but always swallowing it back down in the end.


    "......Goodbye."


    In the end, all he could say was goodbye.


    Lin Jiayu lowered his head, lost in thought, and did not answer.


    Ding Sha was busy in the kitchen. She entrusted Ping''an to Gong Sister-inw and went into the kitchen herself.


    She wanted to make a small dessert for Lin Jiayu.


    She took out two fresh hen eggs and separated the egg whites, mixing them into the fresh milk that had just been delivered today. Then she strained it twice with a sieve.


    This would give it a finer and smoother texture.


    Next, she sprinkled in some white sugar and lemon juice and stirred evenly. She then sealed it with stic wrap and steamed it over low heat for fifteen minutes.


    After steaming, she took it out and drizzled some honey over it, grabbing a handful of dried osmanthus to sprinkle in.


    She put it back into the pot to stew for another three minutes or so.


    A very simple dessert, honey osmanthus egg milk custard, was done.


    Ding Sha carefully took it out after letting it cool down a little and brought it out.


    Lin Jiayu still sat there motionless, seeming to be lost in thought.


    The sound of the porcin bowl hitting the table woke him up. Smelling the sweet aroma in the air, the look in his eyes as he gazed at Ding Sha was gentle. "Thank you."


    Ding Sha smiled. "Try it?"


    Lin Jiayu did not reject her kindness and ate a small spoonful.


    It was sweet and smooth on the tongue, sweet but not cloying, melting instantly in the mouth without any fishy taste of milk or eggs.


    "It''s very delicious." Lin Jiayu said softly.


    He did not raise his head, but Ding Sha could see tears falling one by one into the bowl.


    She was at a loss for what to do for a moment.


    Lin Jiayu wiped his eyes with a handkerchief. The smile at the corner of his mouth finally disappeared. He sat up straight, the sorrow and grief were clear in his eyes as he looked at Ding Sha.


    "I''m very sorry, but would you like to hear my story?"


    No one could refuse eyes like these.


    So Ding Sha sat down and solemnly said, "Yes."


    She said she would not tell anyone.


    Lin Jiayu thought for a long time, "Where should I start?"


    "Let''s start fifteen years ago. At that time, Hu Zhilin and I were high school ssmates and deskmates. We were young and carefree."


    "Our parents also knew each other. We grew up together almost like childhood sweethearts. My parents were busy with work, so he would often stay at my house, and also got used to taking care of me. But around that time, none of us expected..."


    "That Zhilin and I would get together."

 Chapter 45: Anhui Beef Plate Noodles

    <h4>Chapter 45</h4>


    "He really likes kids, but we won''t have kids if we''re together," Lin Jiayu always looked vacant.


    "I didn''t expect him to be with Yuzhu either," Ding Sha said.


    "Actually, I have a lot I want to ask, but I thought about it all nightst night - there''s no point in asking anymore. Let''s just let it go," Ding Sha said before leaving.


    Even after Lin Jiayu left, Xiao Jun felt more indignant than Ding Sha herself.


    Lying in bed that night, tossing and turning, Xiao Jun asked her, "What''s wrong?"


    "I just feel ufortable," Ding Sha said. "I didn''t expect Editor Hu, who looks so gentle, would do something like this."


    "Nothing surprising," Xiao Jun put his arm around her. "People areplicated, you can''t figure them out so easily."


    "Are you saying I''m stupid?" Ding Sha looked up at Xiao Jun meaningfully.


    "No, I didn''t," Xiao Jun quickly waved his hands. "I mean you''re cute."


    "Really?" Ding Sha didn''t believe him at all.


    "Really," Xiao Jun swore.


    Lying on his shoulder, Ding Sha said, "I''m saying...if you..."


    "I won''t," Xiao Jun said decisively.


    "You know what I was going to say, you just say you won''t..." Ding Sha wanted to look up again but Xiao Jun pressed her back down.


    "I know," Xiao Jun said. "I won''t cheat."


    Ding Sha didn''t say anything.


    "Don''t believe me?" Xiao Jun nudged her to face him.


    "Look at me."


    "Look at what?" Ding Sha didn''t understand.


    "Look into my eyes."


    After looking into Xiao Jun''s eyes for a few seconds, Ding Sha blushed.


    "Wha...What the..."


    Xiao Junughed softly.


    "Can''t you see?" he said. "I have intentions towards you. My eyes aren''t innocent towards you."


    Ding Sha''s heart raced.


    Xiao Jun turned to hold her. "My body desires you, and only desires you."


    "From my mind to my heart to my body, I''m filled with your brand."


    "I belong to you. You have ownership over me."


    With considerable heat pressed against Ding Sha, she couldn''t help moving even closer.


    After a while when Xiao Jun tried to let go, Ding Sha took the initiative to press against him.


    "Sand?"


    Xiao Jun was a little caught off guard.


    "Ping''an slept with Sister Gong today," was all Ding Sha said.


    Xiao Jun leaned in to kiss her.


    It seemed to be raining outside, with the patter of raindrops. The newly bloomed flowers were nourished by the rain, faint tender voices drifted away, muffled by the breeze and rain.


    The next day was sunny again.


    The sun shone on the flowers by the bed and the red marks pressed on the sleeping Ding Sha''s face.


    Xiao Jun felt refreshed exercising vigorously in the yard while Little Ping An cried for his mom but was stopped by Xiao Jun.


    "Puff..." Little Ping An got back at his dad by peeing on him.


    But Xiao Jun wasn''t bothered. In a good mood, he happily took Ping An to change clothes.


    It was almost noon and Ding Sha still wasn''t awake yet when the shop opened for business.


    A small sign hung at the entrance.


    "Today''s Specials - All Kinds of Noodles"


    The reason being Xiao Jun made too many noodles that morning, piled high and looked intimidating.


    Fei walked in with his new livestream equipment, "Sis, howe there are only noodles today?"


    To give Xiao Jun''s face, Sister Gong said, "The boss is in a good mood I guess."


    But what does the boss being happy have anything to do with only making noodles?


    Fei was puzzled.


    "Then I''ll have an authentic Anhui beef noodle soup," he said.


    After Sister Gong left, the livestream chatughed out loud.


    "Is it the kind of authentic Anhui noodle soup that only exists in Hebei?"


    "I''m from Anhui and have never eaten this hhhhh..."


    "So cocky! Only selling noodles!"


    Fei alsoughed. "Yes, it''s the authentic Anhui noodle soup that only exists in Hebei. I had it once when I visited rtives, it was so tasty!"


    He started describing in vivid detail what the noodle soup he ate looked and tasted like, making everyone in chat drool.


    "Alright! This person from Hebei is going downstairs to find Anhui noodles!"


    "Is it really that delicious? I''m hungry now! I also want to go to Hebei to eat!"


    Hearing someone order noodles, Xiao Jun alsoughed. He pulled out a lump of dough.


    Wang Wenhao voluntarily went to the side to stretch the noodles.


    Xiao Jun turned on low heat, fried chopped onions in oil, also ginger, garlic, peppercorns and other spices, scooping them out when done before frying the soaked dried chilies.


    Then he added the prepared beef, salt, broad bean paste for more frying. He also added a bit of hot pot soup base, stir frying them together.


    Pouring hot water in, he added light and dark soy sauce, chicken essence, oyster sauce and brown sugar, also adding cassia bark and fragrant leaves.


    After boiling, he added the prepared bean skins and eggs, boiling on high heat before turning to low heat for continued simmering.


    The beef Xiao Jun used was braised beforehand so the vor woulde out faster. Using raw meat would require braising for a whole day to achieve the right taste.


    When Wang Wenhao finished rolling the noodles, he stir fried some greens before putting them in the bowl and adding the piping hot soup on top.


    A bowl of authentic Anhui beef noodle soup that can''t be found in Anhui was ready.


    Fei first carefully captured every detail for his online audience, making sure people were drooling before lifting up a big mouthful for his own enjoyment.


    "Oh oh!" Fei made strange noises. "Boss! What other surprises do I not know about!"


    The chat knew that these noodles must be super tasty.


    "Chewy and full of vor, both aroma and spiciness!" As Fei relished it, he ordered a bottle of ice cold c. "Those who can''t handle spicy food might suffer..."


    Chat ruthlessly mocked Fei''s beet red face and lips.


    Fei was extremely satisfied with this meal.


    After the initial excitement, he slowly showcased the environment of the restaurant to his audience.


    "The menu, the paper''s dyed by the boss wife herself, and the words written by her too, pretty right?"


    "Lots of furnishings here were handmade, great aesthetic sense right?"


    "They choose the decor themselves too. Impressive huh?"


    Hearing his proud tone, the chat found it very funny.


    "Fei, you''re speaking as if it were your own family..."


    "Come clean Fei, what''s your rtion to the boss?"


    "Oh by the way, where''s the boss? Show me his face, a bad blind date left me feeling awful today..."


    The boss wasn''t around, but the boss wife was!


    Ding Sha walked out slowly, holding her waist.


    Messy dark hair, flushed cheeks, and bright eyes, an unconsciously alluring charm.


    Seeing Ding Sha''s liquid eyes brimming with affection, Fei inexplicably felt rather shy, reflexively turning the camera away.


    "Wahhh I''m healed! Beautifuldy I volunteer!!!"


    "This feels...racy..."


    "I see...the implications..."


    "Let''s not discuss further...or we''ll get blocked again..."


    Seeing Ding Sha, Xiao Jun also came out. "Sand? Hungry?"


    Fei watched silently as Xiao Jun brought a stool, poured water, massaged her waist and shoulders. He couldn''t help sighing.


    "Whipped..."


    "Don''t get it huh bro," Wang Wenhao suddenly popped up out of nowhere. "Know what this is called?"


    Fei shook his head.


    "It''s called enjoying the sweetness after the deed."

 Chapter 46: Plum Pig Hand

    <h4>Chapter 46</h4>


    Today was the day that little Xiao Sijin would officially be a resident, and Xiao Jun had specially set aside time to prepare a celebration.


    Evidently, little Xiao Sijin himself did not know about this matter.


    The impact of the epidemic was slowly declining to the lowest point, and everyone seemed to have returned to their previous days.


    The spring breeze brought warmth, and the streets were once again filled with peopleing and going.


    Du Rourou darted in from the entrance, "Ah ah ah! I almost arrivedte!"


    Wang Wenhao was sitting in the lobby peeling potato skins. Seeing Du Rourou, he curled his lips. "Couldn''t you havee earlier? You''rete every day..."


    "I was just dawdling..." Du Rourou said helplessly.


    "You know you''re dawdling and you still don''t hurry up ore early." Wang Wenhao said.


    "I know, I know! I''ll pay attention next time!"


    "It would be good if you could pay attention!" Wang Wenhao didn''t believe her at all.


    Du Rourou muttered under her breath as she washed her hands and sat down to peel potato skins. "Why are there so many potatoes?"


    "You just peel them, what''s the point of asking so much? I''ll tell you but you won''t understand anyway."


    "You, one day without insulting me and you''ll feel awful, right?" Du Rourou was unhappy.


    "I didn''t--" Wang Wenhao tly denied it.


    "Hmph, as if I''m willing to reason with you." Du Rourou threw down the potatoes and went to the back to find alum powder.


    Wang Wenhao looked at Du Rourou''s back with a hint of regret.


    "If you like her, why are you so harsh with your words?" Xiao Jun said quietly.


    He had been watching for quite a while.


    "Ah! You scared me!" Wang Wenhao nearly jumped up from his chair.


    Seeing it was Xiao Jun, he rxed. "Master, you nearly frightened me to death!"


    "Do you think you can win a girl''s heart like this?" Xiao Jun asked again.


    "I..." Wang Wenhao hemmed and hawed, not knowing what to say for half a day.


    Xiao Jun waited half a day and still did not see him make any move to speak, so he returned to the kitchen.


    When Du Rourou came out, Wang Wenhao suddenly called out to stop her. "What...kind of boyfriend do you like?"


    Du Rourou was stunned for a moment. "Why ask this?"


    "Just asking."


    "I like...handsome ones, rich ones, ones who treat me well." Du Rourou gave a few vague characteristics.


    When Wang Wenhao heard this, he felt half of himself had turned cold.


    "Oh." He gave a muffled, gloomy response.


    "Why are you being weird?" Du Rourou asked curiously. "Could it be..."


    She leaned on Wang Wenhao''s shoulder in a chummy way, mysteriously yet humorously moving closer to him.


    Wang Wenhao''s heart thumped rapidly. Could she know...


    But Du Rourou whispered gossipily, "Could it be...your mom is forcing you to go on a blind date?"


    Wang Wenhao was stunned for a moment. "No."


    He looked at Du Rourou''s expression, smiled and shook his head. Never mind, take it slowly.


    Xiao Jun had hired a yuesao (postpartum caregiver) to take care of Ding Sha for a month, while also bringing along the child.


    He didn''t want Ding Sha to put her entire life focus on Ping''an, so he carefully selected a barely satisfactory yuesao toplete this task.


    At first, Ding Sha felt it was unnecessary, but on the first day the yuesao arrived, Ding Sha was visibly relieved and felt much more rxed.


    She no longer needed to get up in the middle of the night to breastfeed, or constantly walk around carrying the baby all day without stopping, or be bothered by changing diapers and the baby''s cries.


    Instead, she had much more time for herself, whether to hone her cooking skills or rx her mood.


    She even went to the museum on a work day to take a quick tour around.


    Da Zhuang rushed in hurriedly. "Sis, I have something I''m hoping you can help me with, I thought it over and you''re the most suitable. Can you do me a favor?"


    "Go ahead and tell me," Ding Sha said generously.


    "It''s like this - I have a chance to bid on a building project in the suburbs of Xicheng District, and I''d like to be able to undertake this project. I finally got the person with the authority to make decisions from the other party to have dinner with me. I figureding to your ce would be good."


    Da Zhuang was a little embarrassed. "I asked around, and found out he especially loves Cantonese cuisine. Could you..." He looked to Ding Sha pleadingly.


    Ding Sha considered it briefly. "Sure, any dietary restrictions? When will theye? How many people total?"


    "No dietary restrictions, he just loves authentic Cantonese cuisine. They''lle tomorrow afternoon. Probably six or seven people."


    "Alright, you can bring them directly to the private room when they arrive."


    After settling on the n, Ding Sha went to check on ingredients in the kitchen.


    She decided to make soy braised fish belly, taro and pork ribs soup, squid with broli, pickled plum stewed pork trotters and barbecue pork fried rice.


    These few dishes were all rtively ssic Cantonese cuisine that she was quite skilled at making.


    After calling the grocery shop to order the necessary vegetables, Ding Sha also told Madam Zhuang to remember to tidy up the private room.


    The next morning at dawn, Ding Sha began her preparations.


    The freshly delivered pork trotters were washed clean with water to remove the fishy smell, then gently simmered to boil off impurities before being poured into the wok to stir-fry briefly. Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce and soy sauce were added, andstly 5-6 pickled plums, before topping up with water to continue stewing.


    Green onions, ginger and pickled plums were added to the sandpot before switching to high heat to continue stewing vigorously.


    After about 40 minutes, the pickled plum stewed pork trotters were done. Eaten, they gave a sweet vor apanied by the light fragrance of pickled plums.


    Da Zhuang brought the partners over fashionablyte. The representative of the partners was quite displeased. "You brought us to a little shop like this?"


    "The shop may not be big, but the dishes the boss and boss''s wife make are all extremely delicious."


    Da Zhuang seemed very confident.


    The partners suppressed their dissatisfaction and skepticism, waiting for Ding Sha to serve the dishes.


    The first dish out was soy braised fish belly, tender when bitten into.


    After just one bite, the partners were very happy. "Now this is the taste! Although I haven''t been back home in a long time, this vor left a deep impression."


    As he spoke, the remaining dishes were also brought up one by one.


    The partners ate with great relish, barely setting down his chopsticks. Da Zhuang watched on also very happily.


    Who knows, maybe the partners would happily agree to sign the contract after this meal.


    Finally, with the wine and food settling contentedly, the partners began to discuss news of the new project with Da Zhuang in a dignified manner.


    After seeing them off, Da Zhuang returned, ecstatic to the point he seemed ready to start jumping for joy. "Sis! Sis! Thank you! I got the deal!"


    He yelled loudly enough to call everyone else out. Seeing him make a fool of himself, Madam Zhuang couldn''t helpughing too.


    "Congrattions, we''ll throw you a celebration banquet when the job is done," Xiao Jun joked.


    Da Zhuang swaggered around very pleased with himself. "With Da Zhuang on the job, it''ll absolutely be fast and good!"


    Da Zhuang happily awaited the partners sending over the contract they had discussed, as promised, but after waiting a long time it still didn''t arrive.


    Ding Sha felt somewhat confused - what was taking so long just to mail a contract...


    Da Zhuang waited another day before finally unable to endure and started pacing back and forth by the entrance.


    He couldn''t help but call the partners using the contact information they had left behind, wanting to ask what was going on.


    The polite receptionist gently informed him, "We''re very sorry, but this project has already been contracted with Longteng Company..."


    Da Zhuang didn''t hear anything else the receptionist said after that. His mind was filled with just two words...


    "It''s over!!"

 Chapter 47: Steamed Meatloaf with Salted Egg

    <h4>Chapter 47</h4>


    "I''m really sorry, little brother!"


    Da Zhuang found the representative of the partnerpany he had dined with again. Upon hearing what Da Zhuang said, the representative pped his forehead, "We really didn''t handle this properly." The representative was actually quite happy to have a ce to look for the taste of home when he missed home in the future. He didn''t expect there to be another problem.


    "I''ll call and ask right away! Don''t worry!"


    The person in charge then turned around with a darkened expression and made a call to the manager.


    "Hello? Manager Liu?" The manager''s voice sounded very obsequious.


    "Little Liu, I have a question for you. What is going on with that western suburb project? Didn''t I hand it over to you?" Manager Liu''s voice didn''t sound as emotionless and scary as his expression.


    The manager couldn''t see Manager Liu''s impending storm expression. "Oh, that''s what happened. Manager Liu, I checked it out. Li Zhuang''s team is just a small workshop. Handing such a big western suburb project to them is too risky. Longteng Company is a bigpany with good credentials..." I thought..."


    "You thought it was time for me to step down and for you to take over as boss of mypany?"


    "Manager Liu?" Even someone as silly as the manager could tell something was wrong.


    "I''ve looked over Li Zhuang''spany qualifications in every aspect, they look pretty good. And the previous projects his team has done are extremely outstanding," said Manager Liu heavily. "Do you have any dissatisfaction with my judgment?"


    "I didn''t... I was thinking for the good of ourpany..." The manager''s panicked voice came through.


    "That''s enough, stop talking," Manager Liu was increasingly annoyed by the manager''s words, "Go to the HR department to process the paperwork, you can go be a manager at Longteng."


    "Manager Liu!"


    Manager Liu hung up before the manager could finish speaking.


    "I''m really sorry, little brother," Manager Liu rarely couldn''t maintain face.


    He had sworn to Da Zhuang that he would give him the project and even drank wine with him as brothers. But in the end, someone under him got in the way.


    This really is...


    Li Zhuang was a little depressed, knowing that there was probably no turning back on this matter. He forced a smile, "Okay... Thank you, Manager Liu..."


    He staggered away dispiritedly, wondering how he would exin this to his brothers...


    "Don''t go, little brother," Perhaps it was because Da Zhuang looked too dejected that Manager Liu couldn''t help calling him back.


    It seemed he had made some kind of decision, "I have another project..."


    Li Zhuang couldn''t help but brighten his eyes again.


    Manager Liu walked briskly back to his desk, opened a drawer, and took out a neatly kept file and handed it to Da Zhuang, "Take a look at this one."


    "See if you can do it?"


    Da Zhuang wiped the sweat from his palms and took it. His eyes widened in surprise.


    It was a "Government Building Repair Agreement."


    "I just closed this deal not too long ago," Manager Liu looked very solemn, "I''m also a smallpany, this contract is also very important to me, so it has to be done well."


    Li Zhuang carefully looked over the areas to be renovated and the timeline. "I can do it."


    "We can get it done during this period," he said, quickly screening suitable building materials in his mind.


    Manager Liu paused for a moment, "Brother, can you give me a n? It doesn''t have to be too formal, just make clear what needs to be clear so I know you have it figured out."


    "No problem." Da Zhuang readily agreed, "Tomorrow at the same time, in the little shop waiting for you toe, okay?"


    "Okay!" Manager Liu happily agreed as well.


    When Da Zhuang got home, he dove right into the room withouting out even at dinnertime.


    Gong Sister-inw brought in a full bowl of dishes and rice for him.


    When she came out she wasughing. "He''s writing some kind of n in the room. He can barely recognize all the words and has to look stuff up in the dictionary."


    "It''s good too," Ding Sha alsoughed. "Da Zhuang brother just told me he still needs to treat Manager Liu tomorrow. Let me prepare some things."


    "Having prospects is always better than nothing."


    After dinner, Ding Sha was in the room researching the method of making pce cakes. Gong Sister-inw knocked and came in.


    "Sha Sha, busy?"


    "No, just casually looking, pondering," Ding Sha let her in. "What''s up, Gong Sister-inw?"


    "Nothing... just, Da Zhuang''s meals and treating of guests these days, just deduct it directly from my sryter..." Gong Sister-inw was a little embarrassed.


    Not only is she freeloading here, but also treating guests here, it feels quite awkward.


    "No need for that" Ding Sha shook her head. "It''s just a meal, why would we need money for that?"


    "What do you mean no need, no money spent on what?" Gong Sister-inw looks gentle but is actually quite stubborn.


    Ding Sha said a bunch of things but still couldn''t convince her and had to promise her request, secretly nning to deduct only a token amount to save face.


    The next day, Ding Sha got up and first went to see Little Ping An, who had just woken up and was babbling who knows whatnguage. She kissed his cute little face and yed with him for a while before going into the kitchen to check the ingredients for the day.


    She nned to make braised duck with wood ear mushroom and salted egg steamed meat cake, and finishing off with choy sum in oyster sauce.


    A piece of lean meat was cut into pieces and then chopped into minced meat, then mixed evenly with soy sauce, oil, salt, and starch before being spread t on a te. Two salted egg yolks were then ced on the surface before steaming.


    The salted egg steamed meat cake is a dish that the elderly in Guangdong like quite a bit, probably because it''s more traditional? Ding Sha remembered Manager Liu ate very happily that day, using his chopsticks most on Guangdong traditional cuisine. She figured he would like this salted egg steamed meat cake.


    Sure enough, when Manager Liu saw these dishes, his eyes lit up. "Salted egg steamed meat cake?!"


    He couldn''t wait to take a bite. "So delicious!!"


    As he ate, he said a few sentences in Cantonese. Probably due to living away for a long time, it sounded somewhat unauthentic. But he ate very happily.


    By the end, only an empty table full of tes remained. Manager Liumented, "I haven''t had the taste of home for a long time..."


    "After drifting away for so many years, my household registration also changed, my ent changed too. Sometimes I really don''t know if I''m still Cantonese..."


    He recalled ying on the streetside as a child, ultimately sighing deeply.


    As he was leaving, Ding Sha brought Manager Liu a packed takeaway box. Manager Liu was taken aback for a moment.


    "Brought you a little snack," Ding Sha said with a smile.


    Manager Liu took it and couldn''t help but open it on the ride back to thepany.


    A box of neatly arranged steamed rice cakes sat inside.


    Manager Liu didn''t know what to say for a moment.


    He actually didn''t like eating steamed rice cakes.


    His family used to sell steamed rice cakes when he was little, so no matter if he was hungry or had a craving, the only thing he could eat was always steamed rice cakes. Once he ate so many he threw up. Since then he thought he''d never eat steamed rice cakes again his whole life.


    It wasn''t until he left home that he no longer ate steamed rice cakes that tasted that way.


    Manager Liu quietly looked for a while, then took one and put it in his mouth.


    The taste was still the same - the taste he had desperately wanted to escape from every day and night as a child. But this time when he ate it tasted very good and fragrant too.


    Perhaps he was homesick.


    Manager Liu wiped his face.

 Chapter 48: Spring White Ice Cream

    <h4>Chapter 48</h4>


    Before Sister Gong got her sry, Da Zhuang hurriedly packed a small bundle and moved to the construction site.


    As the weather grew hotter very quickly, there were already people on the road who couldn''t stand the heat and had put on short sleeves.


    Xiao Jun couldn''t stand the heat either. He loved to sweat. He would casually pull up the hem of his clothes to wipe away some sweat. When his firm eight pack abs were revealed, it would always leave Ding Sha staring with eyes wide.


    As the hot weather started to affect business a little, Du Rourou and Wang Wenhao sat in the lobby bickering. Ding Sha held Little Ping An while arguing with Xiao Jun on whether they should buy domestic or imported milk powder.


    After barely arguing to a result, they started fighting again on when would be the best time for Little Ping An to be weaned off breast milk.


    Nanny Zhao Auntieughed gently as she scrubbed Little Ping An¡¯s clothes in the backyard, raising her eyes to look this way from time to time.


    This was really the mostfortable and gentle hosts¡¯ home she had encountered.


    Not only did they provide food and lodging and the childcare was easy, the meals were particrly delicious too.


    This was still the first time she had gone out to take care of a little one who had even grown fatter.


    The air conditioners Xiao Jun ordered arrived. The workers were drenched in sweat as they installed air conditioners in every room.


    Ding Sha passed Little Ping An to Zhao Auntie and went to the kitchen.


    The green beans bought this year were taken out and rinsed clean before being put in a pot to cook.


    After the water started boiling, the lid was opened for continued cooking over low heat until the green beans bloomed and turned soft.


    The beans and water were poured together into a blender. A handful of white sugar was added and blended into thick green bean paste before continuing to cook it down. Some honey was added.


    After boiling, it was portioned out to cool, with ice cubes helping speed up the cooling process.


    By the time the workers¡¯ faces were flushed red and their bodies drenched in sweat from finishing the instation, they were handed the chilled green bean soup by thedy boss.


    Cool and refreshing, it went down easily,batting the summer heat.


    Everyone exchanged looks with each other. This job was done infort.


    The foreman also thanked Ding Sha with a smile. ¡°This is my number. You can call me if there are any problems with the air conditioners in your home. I¡¯lle over to fix them for you.¡±


    Ding Sha kept his business card and saw Xiao Jun putting it into his own pocket as well when she turned around.


    Ding Sha shook her head in amusement as she went over to tease him, ¡°Are you really jealous over this too? Where did you get this vintage aged vinegar?¡±


    ¡°Authentic Shanxi mature vinegar,¡± Xiao Jun nced at her with a vague smile that was halfughing as he swiftly left a kiss on her lips. ¡°Try it, is it sour?¡±


    Ding Sha shyly covered her mouth as she yfully hit him a couple times before slipping back into the kitchen again.


    Wang Wenhao and Du Rourou went to the nearby wholesale market to help Xiao Jun move the ice cream he ordered. No one knew when the two of them started to enjoy huddling together, whispering quietly to each other.


    Whenever Ding Sha saw Wang Wenhao¡¯s radiant expression, she would find it a bit funny.


    Ding Sha looked at the time. It was still early.


    She opened the book "Ru Fu Forbidden Forms", wanting to make a type of traditional Chinese pastries.


    The pastry disy cab Uncle Wei ordered had been idle for a long time. Now was a good time to clean it up and take it out.


    Ding Sha looked through the book and finally decided to make a type of pastry called "Sunny White Snow".


    It sounded quite cooling.


    Grinding the fungus, yam, job¡¯s tears and lotus seeds into powder and mixing evenly with glutinous rice flour, rice flour and white sugar.


    Then adding water and kneading into an appropriately firm dough.


    The traditional Sunny White Snow pastry only needed to be shaped and steamed this way.


    But Ding Sha thought about it and took out the leftover red bean paste from yesterday¡¯s bean paste buns. She wrapped appropriately sized dough balls with the red bean paste inside before molding them into flower shapes using small wooden stamps.


    Finally they were steamed for 20 minutes before they could be eaten.


    Not only could the Sunny White Snow pastries strengthen the spleen and supplement deficiencies, they could also reduce swelling and dampness, as well as boost energy and stabilize mood.


    Ding Sha put out a te for everyone to try.


    Du Rourou immediately popped up to the table first, shamelessly grabbing a piece. She bit into it happily whileining at the same time.


    ¡°Oh my god this is too delicious! Ever since I started this part-time job, I¡¯ve really gained a lot of weight! But I still can¡¯t help it!!!¡±


    ¡°Why doesn¡¯t thedy boss gain any weight!¡±


    While Du Rourou¡¯s mouth kept going, her hand didn¡¯t stop either as she took another piece to eat.


    Everyone praised the pastries endlessly.


    Ding Sha took out all the Sunny White Snow pastries and arranged them neatly on the counter. She even wrote out introductions with pink flower stationery and calligraphy pen ced in the front.


    Du Rourou was extremely envious.


    ¡°Sister Sha, what kind of treasure are you? How do you know how to do so many things? Multi-talented, beautiful, and also perfect...¡±


    ¡°The key point is not only are you perfect, your husband is just as perfect too! So handsome, talented, wholeheartedly has eyes only for you...¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m really eating lemons now...¡±


    Wang Wenhao ruthlessly mocked her. Du Rourou got up and chased him all around the room to hit him.


    After chasing him breathlessly and finishing her beatdown, Du Rourou came back in front of Ding Sha again. ¡°Sister Sha, are you nning to specifically sell pastries here in the future?¡±


    ¡°Mm,¡± Ding Sha nodded. ¡°If it¡¯s not too busy or I make some new snacks, I n to take them out to sell.¡±


    Du Rourou stroked her chin. ¡°Sister Sha, you know how to make so many things. Have you ever thought about sharing them online?¡±


    ¡°Online?¡± Ding Sha shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t like too many people paying attention to me. It would make me very ufortable.¡±


    ¡°Then you can just post pictures of the pastries!¡± Du Rourou really couldn¡¯t stand wanting to show off how beautiful they were to everyone when seeing these pretty snacks. ¡°They¡¯re so beautiful! And they¡¯re our traditional delicacies and traditional pastries. We can share them with everyone!¡±


    Ding Sha was somewhat moved. She had asionally made some traditional pastries herself before, but the number of buyers hadn¡¯t been what she imagined. Their attitude towards traditional snacks was very indifferent. Some even felt those pastries weren¡¯t as delicious as a mille-feuille cake.


    Ding Sha really wanted to tell them that there were many different kinds of traditional snacks. But it seemed like no one cared.


    They cared about traditional culture, cared about music, cared about inheritance and craftsmanship. So why couldn¡¯t they care about these pastries?


    Du Rourou knew Ding Sha was moved.


    ¡°I guarantee I won¡¯t take pictures of you, only the pastries!¡±


    Ding Sha hesitated for a moment before agreeing.


    Xiao Jun had been listening from the side for a long time already. Hearing Ding Sha agree, he thought and said, ¡°If you¡¯re taking pictures, how about I clean up that room behind the first floor for you as a pastry room?¡±


    The room Xiao Jun referred to was originally a shed. The previous tenants had changed it into something unrecognizable. After they moved here, it was torn down.


    After tearing it down, they hadn¡¯t thought of how to use it for the time being, so they just left it as it was.


    Now after cleaning it up and paired with the flowers nted all around, it would look beautiful.


    Du Rourou excitedly said, ¡°Great great! It will definitely look nice! Beautiful Sister Sha in a beautiful environment making beautiful pastries!¡±


    ¡°Ah! A feast for the eyes!¡±


    Wang Wenhao couldn¡¯t help making another sarcastic remark. Du Rourou screamed while running to chase him down again.


    Ding Sha looked at Xiao Jun somewhat apprehensively, ¡°Do you think...me doing this, is it okay?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± Xiao Jun firmly said.


    ¡°Really?¡± Ding Sha didn¡¯t quite believe it.


    ¡°Really.¡± Xiao Jun still nodded resolutely.


    ¡°What if I mess up?¡±


    ¡°You won¡¯t mess up.¡±


    ¡°How do you know?¡± Ding Sha red at him unhappily.


    ¡°Because it¡¯s you.¡± Xiao Jun smiled.


    Because it was her.


    Because he believed in her.

 Chapter 49: Cold noodles with sesame Sauce

    <h4>Chapter 49</h4>


    "The Forbidden Book of the Lu Mansion" is actually a medical book. We can find some suitable health supplement recipes from it. Everyone can take a look at this book to learn more, but if you get sick, you still have to go to the hospital. Don''t try things yourself at home randomly...


    A pair of fair hands opened the steamer and took a pair of bamboo chopsticks to pick out the steamed egg white lotus seed lychee cakes one by one and ced them on a wooden te. They looked refreshing and delicious.


    He Xi couldn''t help but pause the video and swallowed, having just eaten. But she identally saw this video about desserts and they looked so delicious...


    It was just a white fungus yam cake. Why did it look so fragrant in the video??


    There was also the gentle female voice in the background, slender fingers, graceful figure...


    He Xi leaned back on the sofa thinking to herself that she really wanted to see what this blogger actually looked like...


    Meanwhile, Xiao Jun was upset after watching the final video.


    Du Rourou awkwardly went to find Ding Sha, "Bossdy...did I..."


    "Don''t mind him," Ding Sha said. "Just focus on your work. I''ll have time to coax himter."


    Du Rourou maintained a calm expression on the surface but was clucking on the inside as she walked away.


    She just couldn''t get used to it.


    Every time she saw the usually cold boss and bossdy being affectionate and coaxing each other, she felt she was intruding...


    Sigh...


    Du Rourou sighed, touching her round face. "Sister-inw! What are we eating tonight?"


    Wang Wenhao looked puzzled at Du Rourou''s back, wondering what girls think about all day...??


    He really didn''t understand...


    Ding Sha finished preparing everything needed to shoot tomorrow¡¯s video before going to find Xiao Jun on the swing set.


    Xiao Jun''s face was expressionless, seemingly lost in thought.


    Ding Sha knew he was still sulking.


    She went over and stroked his freshly shaved buzzcut, "Still upset?"


    Xiao Jun didn''t say anything, just nuzzled his big head into her embrace.


    Feeling her lover''s silent plea, Ding Sha''s mouth curved slightly. "How long do you n to sulk for?"


    Xiao Jun mumbled, "A little longer."


    Ding Shaughed softly.


    She quietly held him for five minutes before asking again, "Feel better now?"


    "No--" Xiao Jun dragged out the word, putting his arm around her waist to hug her tighter, "A little longer--"


    Ding Sha stroked the back of his short hair, waiting another three minutes, "Still not good?"


    "No--" Xiao Jun hugged her even tighter, "A little while longer--"


    Ding Sha pushed him lightly, "Hey, didn''t you say you''d stop?"


    Xiao Jun didn''t let go or say anything.


    Ding Sha could only pat his back, "What''s wrong? Why are you jealous again? I didn''t take anyone else''s business card or anything?"


    "So many people called you wife..." Xiao Jun''s slightly aggrieved voice came out, "You''re clearly my wife..."


    Only in front of Ding Sha would Xiao Jun be a little boy who loved to act coquettish, sulk, and demand to be pampered. Ding Sha was happy to indulge him too.


    But hearing Xiao Jun''s words made her want tough. She deliberately said, "It''s not legal yet, we haven''t gotten our marriage certificate yet..."


    As expected, Xiao Jun lifted his head to re fiercely at her, "Just you wait--"


    He gritted his teeth -- "My birthday ising up soon! I''ll be of age!!"


    Only then did Ding Sha suddenly remember that Xiao Jun''s birthday was approaching. She had been so busy these past few days that she had forgotten all about it.


    No wonder he was so upset that she couldn''t cate him after coaxing him for so long.


    Ding Sha quickly apologized, "My mistake, my mistake...What do you want to eat? I''ll make it for you?"


    Only now did Xiao Jun''s eyebrows unfurrow and his pout lessen as the over 1.8 meters tall man looked aggrievedly at Ding Sha, "I want cold noodles with sesame paste!"


    "Alright, I''ll make them. We can have them today, okay?"


    "Not enough!"


    "What else do you want?"


    Xiao Jun looked at her for a moment before whispering something in her ear. Ding Sha''s face turned nearly crimson.


    Xiao Jun said to have Aunt Zhao put Little Ping An to bed tonight.


    Ding Sha vaguely mumbled in agreement.


    Xiao Jun became happy again. He sat on the swing set with Ding Sha on hisp. Ding Sha shrieked in fright, "What if it copses?"


    In the kitchen, Wang Wenhao sighed feelingly as he prepped ingredients and exchanged a look with Du Rourou, "So passionate..."


    After a beat, Du Rourou spat at him, "You dog!"


    Then she left.


    Wang Wenhao stroked his head, "...They''re fighting so intensely, what if someone gets hurt again?"


    "Why aren''t you going to break them up..."


    Ding Sha sent Xiao Jun off to buy noodles before searching the kitchen for sesame paste.


    She poured two whole jars of sesame paste into arge basin and thinned it with water and sesame oil, stirring until it was smooth and non-stick. Then she added chicken essence, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and vinegar, mixing well.


    Beside her, Wang Wenhao swiftly chopped cucumber shreds without using any tools since Xiao Jun wouldn''t allow it, making him practice his knife skills.


    The noodles were bought back just as the water started boiling. Ding Sha added arge handful of noodles to the pot to cook them thoroughly before fishing them out into a bowl filled with ice water to cool rapidly. This made the noodles pleasantly chewy when eaten.


    Once cooled, she fished out the noodles, tossed them with some sesame oil and set them in therge basin.


    She set aside choppedtro and minced garlic, as well as nched mung bean sprouts.


    Finally, the table was set with noodles, cucumber shreds, bean sprouts,tro, minced garlic, hot chili oil, sesame paste, and individual bowls for everyone to take as much or as little of whatever they wanted.


    Xiao Jun loved eating noodles and was the first to grab arge bowl. He even pinched two cloves of raw garlic to eat alongside each mouthful of noodles. The pungent fragrance was mouthwatering.


    On such a hot day, eating mouthfuls of the rich, numbing spice of the cold sesame noodles felt like salvation.


    Du Rourou ate with a blissful expression on her full face.


    In the end, they finished all the noodles, everyone sitting around lethargically with stuffed bellies unwilling to move.


    Outside, crickets energetically sang to herald the arrival of summer while sweat-drenched pedestrians walked inside, "Waiter? Get me something cooling to eat."


    "What crazy weather!"


    The pedestrian grumbled with irritation, face dripping with sweat, "Did Ie out to go shopping or to take a bath?"


    Du Rourou couldn''t help but chuckle, "It really is hotter today than the past few days. Going out jogging today must have been torturous, right?"


    "You bet!" The pedestrian waved his hand, "No more jogging, no more! I''m just going to eat, go home, and lie down. It''s scorching!"


    "Oh? What are you guys doing that smells so good?" He twitched his nose, smelling the lingering fragrance in the air.


    "We just finished eating," Du Rourou pointed at the uncleared bowls and chopsticks on the table. "Sesame cold noodles."


    "Hey, give me one too! Sesame cold noodles!" He immediately perked up. "Love that stuff. Throw some garlic in too. Delish!"


    Ding Sha couldn''t help but say to Xiao Jun, "Just like you."


    Xiao Jun didn''t say anything since his mouth still held the hot garlic vor and he was afraid his breath would drive Ding Sha away.


    Wang Wenhao stood up, "I''ll go make it. Let my master and mistress rx."


    He headed to the kitchen as he spoke.


    When dusk fell and the light hit the wall at just the right angle, Du Rourou picked up her camera, "Sister Ding Sha, what are we filming today?"


    "Sweetmb''s quarters lychee snowke cakes."

 Chapter 50: Candied Plum Snow Cake

    <h4>Chapter 50</h4>


    "You have to grind the fresh rice and glutinous rice into powder, if you think grinding by hand is too much trouble you can use a food processor, the effect is the same..."


    "Then prepare an appropriate amount of water and sugar, pour together into a fluffy consistency, you don''t have to worry, I will show the right ratio at the end of the video, those who are interested can follow along to make it together..."


    "Although it''s fluffy already, it still needs to be sifted once, to make the powder finer and the texture better..."


    "Next sift out ayer of brown sugar powder, it should be quite fine powder, if your brown sugar is clumped up at home, you can grind it a bit with the food processor..."


    "Next take out the square molds we bought earlier, put ayer of cake powder then ayer of brown sugar and then ayer of cake powder, smooth the surface, depending on the size of the mold you may need to cut it into small pieces, my mold isn''t very big, cutting it further might not leave much after steaming so I won''t cut it..."


    "Then steam it, about 30 minutes, take it out after it''s cooked, unmold it, then arrange the prepared candied fruit on top and it''s done."


    "You can buy ready-made candied fruit, if you don''t like the taste I can teach youter how to make candied apricots."


    Du Rourou pointed the camera at the cakes on the table, the square white cakes were neatly arranged on the wooden te on the table, looking exquisite and beautiful.


    "Alright!" After Du Rourou finished filming she turned off the camera, "I''ll go edit the video! Come help meter!"


    "Go ahead, don''t worry," Ding Sha nodded and brought the cakes out to Xiao Jun.


    Whenever she filmed videos and only made a few cakes, these would be Xiao Jun''s snacks to nibble on.


    Eating sweets every day, Ding Sha seriously suspected his recentints of toothache were due to cavities.


    Everyone was gathered together watching TV in the living room, Ding Sha looked around, "Where''s Sister-inw Gong? Howe she''s not here?"


    "Oh, she went out to buy reading sses, Old Zhuang''s clothes are wearing out fast, she said she could still mend them for him to wear, but with his old age he can''t see clearly anymore, so she went to the old goods market over there to buy some reading sses..." Auntie Zhuang said.


    Just as she finished speaking, Sister-inw Gong came in pushing Si Le.


    "Xiao Le?!" Ding Sha looked at him in surprise, at the ck mourning bandage wrapped around his arm.


    "Sister Ding Sha..." Si Le was trying to stubbornly hold it in at first, but seeing all the familiar caring faces, he couldn''t help but cry out.


    "My mom... I... I don''t have a mom anymore..."


    Ding Sha gave a frightened jump, and quickly pulled him to sit down, "Don''t cry, don''t cry, what happened?"


    "Sister Ding Sha..." Si Le sobbed, "My mom... she drank too much, alcohol poisoning... couldn''t be saved..."


    Ding Sha was stunned for a moment, "...Oh my god... then... what now? Have the arrangements been made? What will you do in the future? What about Little Shitou? Is he okay?"


    Si Le said tearfully, "The neighborhoodmittee helped make the funeral arrangements, they said Little Shitou would be sent to an orphanage, I... I''d have to go too..."


    Ding Sha felt somewhat at a loss.


    "Can I not go, the welfare home they mentioned I''ve been there before, all the kids there are bad eggs, fighting and bullying people every day, I don''t want Little Shitou to go..."


    Ding Sha gathered herself and looked back at Xiao Jun pleadingly.


    Xiao Jun walked over saying heavily, "Don''t panic, tell me what you''re thinking now, then I can help you."


    "I... I want to keep working for you, I can support Little Shitou..." Si Le said.


    "Have you thought about if the money you earn yourself isn''t enough for the two of you to live on? And Little Shitou still has to go to school in the future, he needs to live too."


    "There''s also, if working affects your studies what will you do? Have you thought it through? And more realistically what will happen when you eventually go to university? Have you thought it through?"


    Xiao Jun half squatted down to see eye-to-eye with Si Le, "You''re all grown up now, a man, I know you want to shoulder the burden of providing for a family, but you have to make sure you''ve considered everything thoroughly before deciding, otherwise it''s just not worthwhile."


    "I know," Si Le kept his head lowered, "I can do it, I can take hardship, I can endure..."


    For a moment Xiao Jun didn''t know how to exin things more clearly to make him aware this was not something that could be aplished in one sentence.


    It wasn''t that Xiao Jun was unwilling to spend money, but that he was worried Si Le would regret itter, worried he would be lying awake at night filled with regret over the days toe.


    The decision he made today would be one he thinks back on over the next few decades, one he turns over in his mind again and again as to whether it was right or wrong.


    The atmosphere grew somewhat awkward.


    Auntie Zhuang looked at Si Le then looked at Xiao Jun, and suddenly opened her mouth, "I have an idea¡ª"


    Ding Sha looked at her in surprise, "Auntie?"


    "I..." Auntie Zhuang struggled for a long time then just went ahead and said it straight out.


    "Let me just say it straight. I was thinking to adopt you," Auntie Zhuang said, "I''m alone now, lost my old man and my kids, and at my age I don''t want to look anymore either, don''t want to be bothered with other people''s business, might as well just adopt you and Little Shitou to live out my days together. I''ll provide for your studies and meals, then when I can''t get around anymore in the future, you can support me in my old age."


    "What do you think, are you willing?"


    Si Le wiped his tears, "I''m willing!"


    When he first met these people and epted their kindness he had secretly thought to himself, if only they could be family...


    And now it seemed they could be.


    Si Le touched the ck mourning band on his arm, silently making a resolution in his heart.


    Mom, you gave birth to me but never once held me close or hugged me, Little Shitou never enjoyed a shred of motherly love either.


    From when I could understand anything I was out working, earning money all these years to buy you liquor and feed you, I have repaid my obligation as your son.


    From now on, we will also go find our own happiness.


    If fate allows, we will certainly be very intimate, very close, mother and son in our next lives...


    Thinking this, Si Le stood up and bowed deeply to Auntie Zhuang, "I''m willing!"


    Auntie Zhuang smiled happily, "Good good..."


    "Auntie, you''re willing to adopt us, our house is shabby but still shelter from wind and rain, I tidy it up very cleanly every day, you''re wee any time toe live there." Si Le took out his keys from his pocket.


    "These are the house keys, I''ll take you to get familiar with it if you''re not busy."


    "No rush, no rush," Auntie Zhuang waved her hand declining the keys, "still have to go through formalities to legally adopt, to be proper about it."


    Saying that, Auntie Zhuang suddenly recalled something. "Where''s Little Shitou? Where''s the little guy?"


    Si Le said, "I left him waiting at the neighborhood auntie''s ce, he''s been a little sicktely, I was worried about him catching cold."


    "I have my mom''s cell phone, the auntie will contact me if anythinges up."


    Just then the phone in his pocket rang, Si Le took it out to see it was the neighborhood auntie.


    "Auntie?"


    "Xiao Le! Not good! When I went out for a minute to pick up some documents, I came back to find Little Shitou was gone!"


    "What?" Si Le became anxious.


    "I came back to see the door open, went in and didn''t see Little Shitou on the little sofa where he was lying down!"


    "Auntie, look around the vicinity, I''ll head straight home!" Si Le turned and ran outside.


    "I''ll drive you," Xiao Jun took off his apron and followed.


    Ding Sha had Sister-inw Gong and Du Rourou watch the shop, and brought along Auntie Zhuang and Wang Wenhao herself to follow, figuring more people would also be faster.


    "Where could Little Shitou have gone..."


    Si Le was so anxious he nearly cried, when he suddenly had an inspiration.


    "Ah! I know! Little Shitou must be there!"

 Chapter 51: Chicken and Vegetable Pie

    <h4>Chapter 51</h4>


    The group finally drove to the original address of the small shop, and as expected, they saw a small figure leaning on the dusty door trying to look inside.


    "Shi Tou!" Si Le didn''t wait for the car to stop before rushing over and picking up Shi Tou.


    After feeling all over his body and finding no problems, Si Le finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    Sitting wearily on the ground, he wanted to scold Shi Tou but in the end couldn''t get any words out, only saying, "You scared me to death..."


    Little Shi Tou also sat down, rubbing his dark little face against Si Le''s and softly calling, "Brother..." Auntie didn''t open the door."


    Si Le didn''t move or speak, just looked at Shi Tou.


    Shi Tou said again, "Auntie didn''t open the door."


    He was a little aggrieved. "Auntie didn''t open the door...Shi Tou knocked for a long time..."


    He held out his little red hands for Si Le to see.


    Seeing this, Si Le felt heartache again. "Are you stupid? If no one opens the door, don''t keep knocking!"


    "Miss Auntie..." Shi Tou blinked at Si Le as he blew cool air on his palms. Heughed again.


    The breath on his palms was too ticklish, and Shi Tou couldn''t help but shrink his neck.


    Zhuang Auntie had just gotten out of the car and saw silly Shi Tou smiling at Si Le, and she felt relieved.


    "Shi Tou!"


    Hearing Zhuang Auntie''s unique way of calling people, Shi Tou immediately looked over. Seeing the person he was looking for, he happily pped Si Le. "Auntie! Auntie!"


    Si Le smiled and picked him up. "Yes, Auntie, but you''ll probably have to call her Mom from now on."


    "Mom?" Little Shi Tou repeated in puzzlement, touching the ck crepe on Si Le''s arm. "Mom is sleeping..."


    He was referring to thest time he saw his mom lying cold in the morgue, not waking up no matter how much he called.


    "You still don''t understand..." Si Le smiled again. "Never mind, you''ll knowter."


    He handed little Shi Tou to Zhuang Auntie who had walked over with big steps. Zhuang Auntie took him and said, "Yo, let Auntie take a look. How did you get so skinny? Where did my little pig go?"


    Shi Tou briefly forgot everything that had happened in the past few months. Happily twisting and turning in Zhuang Auntie''s arms, it wasn''t until Ding Sha and Xiao Jun walked over that he looked at Ding Sha and called "Tummy..."


    "No more tummy, only a little brother. Do you want to go see?" Ding Sha pinched his little face.


    "Little brother! Little brother!" Shi Tou was extremely happy.


    So the group drove back to the small shop with the two children.


    Du Rourou had been waiting at the door the whole time, absent-mindedly looking around. Only when she saw the familiar car did she happily call, "They''re back, they''re back!"


    She opened the door after the car stopped and ran over. "How was it? Did you find Shi Tou?"


    Zhuang Auntie got out of the car holding Shi Tou. "There he is, the little rascal."


    Du Rourou teased him for a bit. Seeing that he was drooping and somewhat sleepy, she let him inside.


    After Zhuang Auntie had coaxed Shi Tou to sleep and came out, Ding Sha asked Si Le, "What happened with Shi Tou?"


    She had noticed that Shi Tou was different from before the pandemic.


    "He..." Si Le was a little dejected. "I didn''t know because I was at school for evening study. When I got home, I found out he had had a fever all day with no one to take care of him. I don''t know where my mom went. The door was locked so Shi Tou couldn''t even get out."


    "By the time I took him to the hospital, Shi Tou had be like this."


    "The doctor said he might be a little dull-witted from now on, reacting slower, but not stupid."


    Si Le felt a little guilty. If he hadn''te homete, Shi Tou wouldn''t have ended up like this.


    "It''s because Shi Tou is a bit dull now that I''m afraid he''ll be bullied. That''s why I don''t want him going to an orphanage. That ce is really terrifying."


    "It''s alright now. In the future we''ll teach him slowly and get treatment slowly. He''ll definitely get better," Ding Sha patted Si Le on the head. "He just reacts a bit slower. We''ll slowly help him practice."


    Looking at the back of Si Le''s head, Ding Sha sighed silently.


    He''s still just a child. Why does he have to bear so much?


    Xiao Jun patted Ding Sha on the shoulder. Ding Sha looked at him and smiled, then turned and went into the kitchen.


    The two children must be starving after causing such a fuss. She wanted to make something delicious for them.


    She cut chicken breast into pieces and ground it into meat paste. nched broli, carrots and corn kernels. Then cut the broli and carrots into smaller pieces.


    After mixing all the ingredients together, she added ck pepper, starch, cooking wine, soy sauce, oyster sauce and salt for vor. She stirred firmly in one direction until formed into palm-sized patties. Pan fried until golden brown on both sides.


    She also had Wang Wenhao cooking a pot of seaweed egg drop soup on the side.


    By the time the food was ready, little Shi Tou had also groggily woken up. He nkly sat in bed, not crying or making trouble, hazily staring at his little feet in a daze.


    Zhuang Auntie came in and touched his little face. "Hungry?"


    Shi Tou nkly nodded after a while.


    "Let''s go eat!" Zhuang Auntie picked him up.


    The little patties were fragrant and soft, and meaty too. The two boys ate with their heads down, not even lifting them.


    In the end, they drank the entire big pot of soup, though most of it was drunk by Si Le. Shi Tou was full so he absentmindedly started ying with his fingers.


    "Auntie, I want to sell the house and have Shi Tou live with you. Is that okay?" Si Le said.


    "Ah? What? Sell the house? Where will you live?" Zhuang Auntie was shocked.


    "I can live at school. The high school entrance exam ising up soon. I can apply to live at school after getting into high school. Shi Tou really likes you and I''ll feel assured leaving him with you."


    "In a couple days, after my mom''s funeral affairs are settled, I''ll go find an agent to sell the house."


    "No, I think you should keep the house," Zhuang Auntie disagreed. "What''s the point of selling it? Listen to me, don''t think I''m being blunt, but with the house there you''ll always have a home, and feel at ease."


    "If you sell the house, you really won''t have a home anymore."


    But Si Le still shook his head. "The house doesn''t mean much to me. Selling it and getting money will be good for me and Shi Tou."


    "Don''t worry, when I grow up I''ll buy you a big house."


    "It''s not like I want to adopt you because I''m greedy for your house," Zhuang Auntie red at him. "I have my own food and lodging, and Ding Sha still sends me a sry every month. I have more than enough to provide for you two."


    "I know," Si Le smiled. "But I want to buy you one."


    After arguing half the day with neither side willing topromise, under Ding Sha''s persuasion, Si Le finally agreed that when he turned 18 that year, if he still wanted to sell the house, they would discuss it again at that time.


    Si Le spent the night at the small shop.


    Ding Sha even joked with Xiao Jun that it was good they had moved to a bigger house, otherwise they wouldn''t have had room for everyone.


    Early the next morning, Si Le went to school to report in.


    It wasn''t until after he had finished the high school entrance exam that he went with Zhuang Auntie and Shi Tou to process the adoption and household registration.


    When they came back, both faces showedplex emotions despite Shi Tou still being confused.


    Ding Sha had prepared a table full of dishes and had even closed the shop early, just waiting to celebrate with Zhuang Auntie and Si Le.


    Si Le''s eyes were red. "Thank you everyone, I really appreciate it so much!"


    After finishing his drink, he deeply bowed.

 Chapter 52: Long Life Noodles

    <h4>Chapter 52</h4>


    "Oh my god, my mother-inw!"


    Wang Wenhao came out from the backyard and saw Ding Sha standing on a stool holding a wooden board against the wall, seeming to be making measurements.


    He rushed over in rm, "You''re going to scare me to death! If you need anything, just call me, call me and I''lle right away!"


    "If my master sees this, I''ll be done for!"


    "It''s not that serious," Ding Sha got down from the stool, "You happened toe by, so take a look too, see if it''s appropriate to put this here."


    "I should take a look? Look at what?" Wang Wenhao asked as he took over the wooden board and turned it over to see three big characters written.


    Wang Family Dishes.


    Wang Wenhao stopped moving and didn''t say anything more.


    "I discussed it with A-Jun yesterday," said Ding Sha, "He said it''s time for you to get in touch with your grandfather''s recipes. And coincidentally, Uncle Wei also made these name ques and stuff, so it''s suitable to take them out now."


    "Mother-inw..." Wang Wenhao didn''t know what to say.


    His father had given the recipes away. He had no reason to shamelessly ask for them back, let alone make people take him as a disciple and specially put up ques for his family''s Wang dishes in their shop.


    Wang Wenhao wiped his face and said, "Uh, mother-inw, I will definitely cook well."


    Ding Sha hmm-ed and patted his shoulder, "We''ve seen that you have good talent, just wasted before. If you had followed Old Master Wang to learn cooking since you were little, you would definitely be better than what we can teach you."


    "But the past can''t be chased. Let bygones be bygones. Focus on learning well and cooking well now, you understand?"


    Ding Sha said more to make sure he could get over that hurdle.


    "I understand, mother-inw. Don''t worry, I will definitely not overthink it. I''ll do whatever master tells me to do."


    "You little rascal, howe I didn''t see you being so obedient before? If you had listened this much earlier, I could have lived a hundred years longer!" Wang Zhengyang''s voice came from the door.


    Wang Wenhao was stunned. "Dad!"


    Wang Zhengyang humphed. "Your mom was worried, so she asked me toe take a look."


    "I''m fine, dad. Tell mom not to worry. I will definitely carry on grandpa''s recipes gloriously." Wang Wenhao swore earnestly.


    Wang Zhengyang''splexion softened somewhat. He looked at Ding Sha with a smile, "Bossdy, this stinky kid of our family just has thick skin. If he does wrong, go ahead and beat or scold him. He''s not the sort to hold grudges."


    "Oh oh, that''s right, what my dad said," Wang Wenhao nodded his head rapidly, "If I don''t do it right, just directly scold me."


    Ding Sha didn''t know whether tough or cry.


    "Why is everyone standing?" Xiao Jun came back. He had just returned from the baby store to buy form for Little Ping An who was going to be weaned off breastfeeding.


    Xiao Jun carried back piles of milk powder. Ding Sha quickly went to take them from him, "You bought so much?"


    "Ping An has a big appetite. Auntie Zhao said thest few days he would fuss to eat two feeds before sleeping at night. When I hugged him before I left, wow, he''s gained quite a bit of weight." Xiao Jun didn''t let her touch it and carried it to the back himself.


    After putting down the milk powder and returning, he said, "Uncle Wang came? Staying for a bit? Let me pour you tea."


    "No need, no need. I was just passing by to take a look. Still have to go back to keep an eye on the store!" Wang Zhengyang quickly waved his hands. "I''ll get going, you all take care."


    With that said, he briskly made his exit.


    "Why did the old mane?" Xiao Jun was rather curious.


    "To see Wenhao," Ding Sha wiped a hot towel on his face, "The more scathing his words, the more he cares inside. Old folks are just stubborn on the outside but soft inside."


    "What''s for dinner tonight?" Xiao Jun looked at the table full of menu ques. "Eating out?"


    "Why eat out?" Ding Sha wondered. "You own a restaurant yourself and still want to eat out?"


    "Did you forget what day it is today?" Xiao Jun pinched her nose.


    "What day is it?" Ding Sha was thoroughly confused.


    As she passed by, she casually picked up Egg Yolk and hugged it. Egg Yolk calmly looked at her and quietly purred.


    "It''s your birthday." Xiao Jun found it funny that she had actually forgotten her own birthday.


    "Ah..." Now Ding Sha remembered what she had felt was missing these past few days.


    "Mother-inw''s birthday?" Wang Wenhao excitedly chimed in upon hearing this. "Then we have to have a good meal!"


    Birthday????


    Ding Sha instantly felt like she must already be seventy or eighty to warrant talk of a birthday celebration.


    "Then I''ll check out which restaurants that specialize in birthday banquets are most well-known and quickly book us seats!" Du Rourou happily said too.


    Ding Sha smiled. "Alright, then I''ll go change clothes to get ready."


    "Yay!" Du Rourou cheered as she went to find her phone.


    They eventually booked seats at a nearby restaurant that was said to have very tasty longevity noodles.


    Ding Sha wore an embroidered ethnic style long dress and looked refreshed and elegant.


    Their group made quite a bustling party as they headed to the restaurant.


    There was Ding Sha, Xiao Jun, Du Rourou, Wang Wenhao, Sister-inw Gong, Auntie Zhuang, Auntie Zhao, Little Ping An, Xiao Shitou.


    Da Zhuang had gotten the message and was rushing over, while Si Le still had after-school self-study sessions and couldn''t make it.


    The banquet hall was very big. Xiao Jun ordered their signature birthday banquet set.


    The speed at which the dishes came out was faster than Ding Sha expected. There was fish, shrimp, pork elbows. Stir-fries, deep fries, steams, an assortment of cooking methods.


    They even gifted a small cake.


    The longevity noodles were also served up quickly.


    Ding Sha took a mouthful. The soup base was chicken broth, fresh and tasty. The noodles were handmade, with a nice, chewy texture. There were mushrooms and greens inside, along with a piece of chicken.


    The portion was not big. Ding Sha finished it very quickly.


    During the meal, they drank a little wine and had a merry time.


    Ding Sha happily drank quite a lot since it was her family celebrating her birthday together. She felt very happy.


    The consequence of being happy was drinking too much and getting tipsy.


    On the way back she was quiet, but once they reached home, the mischief began.


    It wasn''t a full out drunken fit, just asional little antics that left one feeling itchy.


    Xiao Jun didn''t have much trouble carrying Ding Sha back into the room to see her half-open, drunken eyes, her flushed cheeks, and the faint alcoholic scent in her breaths.


    Xiao Jun couldn''t resist kissing her again and again.


    Ding Sha didn''t resist either, gazing softly back at him. If pushed too far, she would give soft hmms and gently push at Xiao Jun.


    Of course she still couldn''t budge him.


    Xiao Jun held himself above her, staring intently at every detail. He really enjoyed gazing fixedly at Ding Sha with a sense of possessiveness.


    Ding Sha only felt her head spinning and couldn''t see anything clearly.


    She was half asleep and half awake, feeling like the light overhead kept shaking, then feeling it was herself shaking instead.


    Later in the night she awoke again with a dry mouth and throat. She randomly pulled on a piece of clothing to cover herself and got out of bed to drink water. Xiao Jun was not there. Instead, there was the pitter-patter sound of the shower running.


    Ding Sha felt a little soreness in her body and wanted to take a bath after Xiao Jun finished.


    Xiao Jun came out wearing just shorts. Water droplets slid down his muscr chest and abs into the shadows of his shorts. Seeing that made Ding Sha feel slightly lustful.


    Xiao Jun was well aware of her reaction and in two steps had taken her back into the depths of the bed.


    The cry of surprise she wanted to let out was swallowed up by him instead. The moonlight slyly peeked past the windowttices to see a pair of fair, soft hands tightly sped by anotherrger pair.


    Even the moonlight was shy about it.

 Chapter 53: Green Salad

    <h4>Chapter 53</h4>


    Xiao Jun walked in and saw that Ding Sha had a thoughtful look on her face.


    "What are you thinking about?" Xiao Jun stroked her hair and asked curiously.


    "Ping An was a bit strange today," Ding Sha said.


    "What happened? Is he sick?" Xiao Jun sat down.


    "He''s not sick," Ding Sha rubbed her chin, "He just kept staring at me, without crying or fussing, and he wanted hugs."


    "Doesn''t he always act like that?" Xiao Junughed, "He knows how to pretend to be good, and how to trick people."


    Ding Sha thought about it and realized it was true. Usually after crying and fussing, he would stare with eyes wide pretending to be good, even though he was just singing loudly to himself a moment ago when he saw someoneing he pretended nothing happened.


    "I really want to know what he''s thinking in that little head of his," Ding Sha stood up and walked outside.


    "I''m so curious too," Xiao Jun also stood up and followed.


    The couple walked into little Ping An''s room. Zhao Auntie was making form for him. He stared at the bottle without blinking, looking very serious.


    Hearing the noise and seeing Ding Sha, he started staring at her again, and went "ah ah" twice, reaching out his little hands wanting a hug.


    Ding Sha floated over quickly and picked him up, "Oh which little darling is this, let mommy take a look."


    She kissed the milk-scented little baby, "So pretty, so good, so cute."


    She held Ping An in her arms, bouncing around the room with him.


    After Zhao Auntie tested the temperature of the form, she handed the bottle to Ding Sha, "I''ll go wash Ping An''s nkets and mat and hang them out to dry since there''s good sunshine today."


    "Thanks for your hard work, Zhao Auntie," Ding Sha smiled, "Xiao Jun and I will take him out for a walk in a bit."


    Zhao Auntie carried the big pile of bedding out to the yard.


    Ding Sha packed arge bag of stuff and put it under Ping An''s stroller, and Xiao Jun pushed it. She carried Ping An, nning to take him out for a walk.


    Ping An hadn''t gone out much before, so she wanted to take him out.


    Ping An hugged her neck, leaning against her chest, asionally wriggling a bit, looking at Xiao Jun then back raising his head looking at Ding Sha.


    They went to a mall near their home.


    Halfway there Xiao Jun bought a milk tea for Ding Sha, and carried Ping An himself.


    Little Ping An sat steadily in his dad''s arms, looking at his mom curiously.


    "Want to drink?" Ding Sha asked little Ping An with a smiling face, but she put the straw into Xiao Jun''s mouth instead.


    Xiao Jun frowned as he drank a sip then pushed it away, "Too sweet, don''t understand why it tastes so good."


    Ding Sha ignored him and happily drank it herself.


    "The weather is so nice," she squinted, "I remember there''s a baby toy store in the mall. Let''s pick out some educational toys for Ping An."


    She counted on her fingers, "Number cards, letter cards, all kinds of things."


    "Isn''t it a bit early?" Xiao Jun was puzzled.


    "Just buy first, we''ll figure it outter," it was probably something all women shared - the urge to shop when in a good mood.


    They reached the mall. Ding Sha finished the milk tea before taking Ping An from Xiao Jun to let him rest for a while.


    Ping An had been very well-behaved all along, snuggling intimately in his parents'' arms, asionally going "ah ah" to indicate he was participating too in their shopping discussion.


    On the way home, Ding Sha was still carrying Ping An, "Oh why is our baby being so good today?"


    She pretended to think hard, "Then you definitely need a reward!"


    Ping An cooperated by grabbing her fingers that she held under his chin, and went "Ah ah".


    Ding Sha wiped his drool for him, "I''ll make you some carrot vored rice porridge when we get home, okay?"


    Ding Sha knew well most children''s hatred and avoidance towards carrots. So on the first day Ping An could eatplementary foods, she had prepared the baby rice porridge in carrot vor. Hoping to make Ping An one of the few children who loved carrots.


    By the time they returned home, the restaurant was preparing food. Ping An was already sleepy and couldn''t keep his eyes open, still holding onto Ding Sha''s hair unwilling to let go. Ding Sha carefullyy him down and kissed his little face before leaving.


    Wang Wenhao was still in the kitchen holding the recipe thinking hard, there were only two dishes on the Wang Family Menu, after getting approved by Wang Zhengyang and Xiao Jun.


    Du Rourou sat dozing off while editing videos, clutching her notebook. These days the weather had been good, and the flowers they transnted into the yard had blossomed, in splendid shades of purple and red.


    Seeing the beautiful blossoms, Du Rourou pulled Ding Sha to film many videos.


    The videos were already up to incorporating flowers into pastries. The views on the video tform were also quite high.


    This ount sharing traditional pastries already had a lot of fans, and also received many advertisement promotions, but Ding Sha turned those down.


    Recently, Xiao Jun brought back aptop. He happened to see someone doing post-production and editing, and became extremely interested all of a sudden.


    He also said at home he would work hard to learn, even wanting to surpass Du Rourou to be the number one person behind Ding Sha''s career and life.


    This was the first time Du Rourou faced Xiao Jun with head held high, fearless, "Humph! I''m an editing major, about to start my postgraduate studies! Boss you''re very capable, but wanting to surpass me will still be a little difficult~"


    Then two monthster, she wilted. Xiao Jun was really able to figure out his own way. His aesthetic was unexpectedly high level, an ink painting and mountain water style. It matched Ding Sha very well.


    Sometimes Du Rourou wondered, how can this couple be like this?


    Good looks, good life, smart, rtionship is also good, most infuriating is the child is good too. Too unfair!


    She indignantly took a bite of the weight loss meal Ding Sha specially prepared for her.


    Yes, catering to popr demand, the restaurantunched a summer special - weight loss meals.


    The one Du Rourou was eating was one of the more popr choices.


    A pan-fried cod fillet without oil, arge handful of bitter chrysanthemum greens and other leafy greens, broli, tomatoes, avocado, and other vegetables paired with corn kernels, winged beans etc, plus mixed grains rice, two small purple potatoes, and a hard boiled egg.


    It looked like a lot, but very low in calories.


    Pour over Ding Sha''s specially made vinaigrette or low-fat sesame sauce, and there was no painful feeling of eating a weight loss meal at all.


    Many young women would buy a serving to take away, especially more popr after Gong Sister-inw started a fruit and vegetable juicing stand next door.


    Ding Sha scrolled through her phone looking at what kind of video to shoot next. The cat Egg Yolk rubbed against her legs acting coquettish. The two kittens also meowed as they jumped onto the bench to climb onto herp.


    Zhuang Auntie wasn''t around, she went to Si Le''s school.


    Si Le was about to take the high school entrance exam. The teacher asked every parent to understand the selection and pros and cons of high schools.


    Little Shitou was also sent to preschool. Although slow to react he was well-behaved and obedient. A little girl in his ss liked to follow him around protecting him.


    Lin Jiayu pushed the door open, "It''s so nice and cool inside!"


    He wore a casual and neat white shirt. The cuffs neatly rolled up, and his hair was also neatlybed.


    He held a book in his hand. It looked like he came straight from ss.


    He wore silver-rimmed gray sses, with a gentle smile at the corners of his mouth. "I heard the bossdy has new desserts? I came to show my support."

 Chapter 54: Peony Flower Noodles

    <h4>Chapter 54</h4>


    "Long time no see, you came," Ding Sha smiled and brought him a ss of mint lemonade, then sat down, "What would you like to eat?"


    "Do you still have those peony flower noodles you made in your video a few days ago?" Lin Jiayu said with a smile, "I wanted toe over after watching the video."


    "Not difficult to make, there happens to be some today," Ding Sha stood up and called Du Rourou over to brew tea.


    Chinese desserts taste best with tea.


    Du Rourou brewed a pot of Wang Wenhao''s precious Taiping Houkui tea, making Wang Wenhao distressed.


    Du Rourou got a little excited and put down the tea, "Excuse me, are you Professor Lin?"


    Lin Jiayu paused for a moment, "Do you know me?"


    "Yes, yes, yes, I''m Professor Liu Yongfang''s student. The professor often mentions you in ss." Du Rourou nodded quickly.


    "It''s Professor Liu," Lin Jiayu smiled gently, "Professor Liu is a great teacher who taught me a lot of knowledge. You have to learn well from the professor."


    Du Rourou nodded vigorously and couldn''t help but ask again, "Um, Professor Lin, most of Sister Sha Sha''s videos were edited by me, could you review my work?"


    She was a little embarrassed.


    Lin Jiayu was very happy. Students'' eagerness to learn is what every teacher likes to see. He thought for a moment and also gave some suggestions for improvements.


    Du Rourou grabbed the menu and started taking notes.


    When Ding Sha came out, she saw this scene.


    Du Rourou hugged the notebook and shrank back to practice. Ding Sha smiled and brought it to him, "Here, try it?"


    Lin Jiayu looked at it carefully, "It''s so beautiful."


    "Could you tell me more about it in detail?"


    "Of course." Ding Sha also sat down.


    "This is a small dessert mentioned in Dream of the Red Chamber when Granny Liu came to Grand View Garden for the second time."


    "Prepare glutinous rice flour and wheat starch, then pour in hot water while stirring until it forms strands, then ce on a pan and knead withrd into a dough."


    "Take out the pomegranate seeds and juice them. Because there are a lot of seeds, it¡¯s best to filter with gauze after juicing with a juicer, or smash with a stone mortar."


    "Knead part of the dough into a light pink with pomegranate juice, and part into yellow with pumpkin juice."


    "It''s not that hard to grasp, the main thing is pinching the dough into flower shapes takes some skill."


    Ding Sha pushed the te to Lin Jiayu as she spoke, "After pinching into flowers, steam for four to five minutes and it''s ready to eat."


    Looking at the exquisite and beautiful desserts, Lin Jiayu couldn¡¯t bear to eat them for a moment.


    The pink and white flower petals, the yellow stamens,yer uponyer, extremely beautiful.


    It looks vivid and lifelike.


    "It''s really a work of art!" Lin Jiayu eximed.


    "Try it?" Ding Sha said, "It doesn''t actually taste as good as it looks, but it looks so pretty."


    After finally making up his mind to take a bite, Lin Jiayu had to agree.


    After drinking some tea to cleanse his pte, Lin Jiayu brought up his reason foring.


    "I also have something I want to discuss with you this time." Lin Jiayu took out a stack of papers, "Because of the peculiarities of our course, we actually ce great emphasis on practical work. I want to bring my students here to shoot."


    "They are about to graduate and also need graduation works to attach to their resumes."


    What Lin Jiayu brought was a contract, clearly stating the location, time, needs of the shoot, and the payment.


    "In previous years we would rent a small garden, so there would be more variety as well to ensure quality, but this year''s situation is special, so I have no choice but to target you as an excellent ''shooting material''."


    Lin Jiayu blinked yfully, a rare mischievous look.


    Ding Sha flipped through the contract and agreed without much thought, "Okay, let me know a day in advance when youe over so I can clear the ce."


    "No need. The guests in the restaurant are also a kind of scenery. As long as they get permission from others themselves, it counts too." Lin Jiayu shook his head.


    After settling everything, Lin Jiayu stood up and patted his clothes, "It¡¯s gettingte, I should get going."


    Ding Sha sent him to the door, ¡°Pleasee again next time.¡±


    ¡°I definitely will.¡± Lin Jiayu waved casually and walked away with big strides.


    "Why are you so nice to him? Sha Sha?" Xiao Jun came over, feeling a little unhappy.


    "Don''t you think he''s amazing?" Ding Sha was still looking at Lin Jiayu''s straight back.


    "I''m amazing too!" Xiao Jun raised his arm to show her his muscr arm.


    "Different." Ding Sha casually grabbed his arm, ¡°Professor Lin is the kind of very gentle yet very strong person."


    "He is really heartbroken, but also very determined. His eyes can¡¯t stand the slightest bit of sand. More than ten years of feelings dismissed just like that. And he adjusted himself so quickly."


    "It''s as if nothing can beat him down."


    "It''s as if he can always take big steps forward with love and gentleness."


    Xiao Jun understood what she meant, patted her head and let her lean on his shoulder, "We will too, always move forward with love."


    Ding Sha smiled.


    "Sister Sha!" Du Rourou rushed out from the room, "Something big happened!"


    "What''s the matter? Slow down, don''t panic," Ding Sha was startled by her.


    "Do you know that famous pickle factory ''Fan Xiangxiang''?"


    "I know, we have a lot of their stuff," Ding Sha pointed to the kitchen. When her homemade pickles ran out, she would use Fan Xiangxiang¡¯s pickles. They were delicious and clean.


    "He... he he he sent me a message!" Du Rourou excitedly pointed at her phone.


    "What happened? Did they invite you to work there?" Wang Wenhao chimed in.


    "Get lost!" Du Rourou yelled at him angrily before continuing, "Not to me, to Sister Sha Sha''s ount!"


    "To me?" Ding Sha was a little confused, "Why did they message me?"


    "They said two things. First, they wanted to ask if you could coborate on a new line of pickles, and second, they wanted to ask if you would help promote them."


    "Promote? Coborate??" Ding Sha was puzzled.


    "It''s like this. Although Fan Xiangxiang is well-known, profits have been low for years and the factory is about to go under. So they want to make a breakthrough as ast gamble." Du Rourou exined. She was also puzzled, so she looked it up to find out. She was surprised that such an outstanding factory was already in such dire straits.


    Ding Sha hesitated a little. Du Rourou thought and said, "Sister, if you''re worried, why don''t we go inspect their factory first to see if it¡¯s true, and then consider whether or not to coborate, okay?"


    "Good idea!" Ding Sha thought it was feasible and immediately had Du Rourou reply to the message.


    Fan Xiangxiang readily agreed as well, and even covered the round-trip airfare and amodation fees.


    Xiao Jun stayed behind to watch the restaurant. Ding Sha took Du Rourou with her.


    After about three days, they hurried back.


    Bringing back a signed contract.

 Chapter 55: Sad Cold Powder

    <h4>Chapter 55</h4>


    "Is there some kind of magic in our shop?" Du Rourou looked puzzled and said.


    "What''s going on?" Ding Sha was adjusting the recipe for the little pickles for the third time, and was a little curious when he heard this.


    "It''s just that I''ve already heard the third couple breaking up this month..." Du Rourou felt very speechless.


    "Uh... breakup season?" Ding Sha thought about it.


    Du Rourou also nodded after thinking about it, "It''s possible that it''s graduation breakup season if there was no epidemic..." She said, "It seems that every time it gets to this time, the leaves falling from the trees on campus seem to increase..."


    "Hahaha, then let''s make a bowl of heartbreak liangfen today?" Ding Sha came up with a clever idea.


    "Heartbreak liangfen?" Du Rourou was puzzled for a moment as she searched it, "Isn''t that a spicy stick?"


    "No," Ding Sha put the freshly made little pickles in a small ss jar without water or oil and put them in the refrigerator.


    "It''s simr to liangfen noodles from northern Sichuan, also a type of liangfen, it tastes numb and spicy when you eat it."


    "You''re not making dessert?"


    "Special circumstances call for special treatment. It can also go on the menu after it''s made." Ding Sha said.


    The liangfen was made with pea flour. After stirring, it was set aside to solidify, which took some time. Ding Sha then took a new round-bellied squat vase to put flowers in.


    The various flowers growing too recklessly in the yard, with many thorny branches extending beyond the originally nned flower beds onto the road. Zhao Auntie had been scratched a few days ago.


    So Ding Sha simply bought back a lot of vases. He pruned the branches that needed pruning, threw away the ones to be discarded, and put the flowers he had inserted out to decorate the tables and house, making them fragrant and beautiful.


    After the liangfen solidified, it was cut into small pieces, then sprinkled with garlic, green onion, coriander and a specially made Sichuan-style hot and spicy seasoning.


    The hot, spicy and fragrant taste made the people eating it uncontrobly tear up and sweat profusely, which really matched the name of heartbreak liangfen.


    There was a lot of leftover liangfen, so Du Rourou took back the menu and asked Ding Sha to write down this dish, while helping to take the inserted flowers out to decorate them.


    Many new decorations and ornaments had been added to the restaurant recently. Many were sent over by Uncle Wei, and some were figured out by Xiao Jun himself and ced in the restaurant, looking particrly fanciful.


    Zhao Auntie was taking an afternoon nap, and Xiao Jun had gone out without knowing what he was doing.


    Wang Wenhao was practicing his knifework bitterly in the kitchen. He was too thin andcked strength, so recently he had been frantically eating to gain weight.


    A girl walked in. "Are you open for business now?"


    "Yes, please take a seat. Let me bring you a menu." Ding Sha happened to hand her the menu in his hand.


    "Hmm, I''d like a sweet and sour pork ribs, and a te of heartbreak liangfen, oh and also a freshly squeezed fruit juice if you have it." The girl ordered very quickly.


    Ding Sha went to the back to tell Wang Wenhao, then brought out the liangfen.


    The girl looked like she couldn''t handle spicy food. After just a few bites her nose and eyes turned red, but she still smiled at Ding Sha, "So spicy!"


    Ding Sha brought her the fruit juice, "Have a sip to relieve the spiciness."


    The girl took a sip. "But it''s pretty delicious."


    Once all the dishes were served, Ding Sha stopped disturbing her and quietly went to sit in a corner to continuemunicating with the fragrance of the meal.


    After the girl finished eating, she didn''t leave immediately, but sat for a while, looking at Ding Sha and taking the initiative to say, "The weather is really nice today!"


    "Yes, there''s a gentle breeze and sunshine, but it''s not too hot." Ding Sha also smiled back.


    "Your shop is also very beautiful." The girl said.


    "Thank you, pleasee again next time!" Ding Sha thought for a while, and grabbed her a handful of plum candy to cleanse her pte.


    "Next time?" The girl smiled. "Probably."


    The girl got up to pay. "Thank you for your hospitality. I''m very happy to have met you and your shop today."


    Ding Sha didn''t know why she felt a little strange, but couldn''t figure it out. She could only smile and repeat, "Me too, I''m very happy to have met you today. Pleasee again next time!"


    The girl left, but Ding Sha still felt strange.


    Shortly after, she saw arge number of people suddenly flowing in one direction outside the store.


    She pushed open the door to stop a neighbour''s older sister who wasing back from that direction. "Sister, why are there so many people over there? Is there an event?"


    "Oh my, no event," the neighbordy could only sigh. "A little girl is trying tomit suicide by the river!"


    "Suicide?" Ding Sha was shocked.


    "Yes, she looks quite pretty, also very calm. Wearing a pink and white dress, with long hair. Don''t know why she suddenly felt hopeless..."


    Ding Sha was stunned for a moment. Wasn''t that the girl who just had a meal?


    She instinctively ran in that direction. Du Rourou shouted after her several times but didn''t stop her.


    Ding Sha ran out of breath to the riverside. It wasn''t far from her small restaurant. There was already a crowd gathered, and she could still hear the faint sound of police sirens.


    The girl was sitting calmly on a pir by the river looking up at the horizon, with a very rxed and peaceful expression, not looking like someone about to take her own life at all.


    People around were pointing fingers and talking. Only Ding Sha was increasingly worried and anxious.


    She plucked up her courage and walked two steps forward to try and talk to the girl. "Miss?"


    The girl had already seen her and smiled. "Thank you, boss."


    "It''s so dangerous over there. Pleasee back. Let me help you, okay?" Ding Sha took two more steps forward.


    "Don''te over, sister." The girl moved back a little further. She looked precarious, as if a gust of wind would cause her to lose her bnce and fall.


    "Thank you for talking to me today, I was very happy."


    "Sister made some snacks just now, would you like to try them?" Ding Sha''s mind went nk. She could only say whatever came into her head.


    The girl shook her head. "No need. The weather is so nice today. I like it."


    "Then why..." Ding Sha couldn''t help asking.


    "I''m just too tired." The girl shook her head slightly. "Even seeing nice weather doesn''t make me feel it''s nice."


    "There are still many possibilities in life..." While Ding Sha tried her best to persuade her, she also tried to get closer.


    The girl seemed to be lost in thought, "Too tiring..."


    Just as she finished speaking, the fireman who had detoured from behind the bridge suddenly pushed her forward.


    The girl fell heavily to the ground, still somewhat in disbelief. Ding Sha immediately went up to pull her into her arms. "Everything will be fine..."


    The girl didn''t struggle. "Actually, after I finished eating, I regretted it a little, thinking that I could just walk away next time I came."


    "Thene every day. I''ll make delicious food for you." Ding Sha thought that greeting her with a "wee back next time" every day could make her stay...


    The girl didn''t speak anymore, leaning in her arms not knowing what she was thinking.


    "Pretending. I really thought she was going to jump. Just moring for attention..."


    "Right, wasting my damn time. What a phony!"


    "Let''s go, nothing to see. Drama queen!"


    Dissonant voices came from the crowd. Ding Sha was shocked and hurriedly covered the girl''s ears.


    The girl had already heard it. She stood up and pushed Ding Sha away. Then very quickly, before anyone could react, she jumped down.


    "Ah!" Ding Sha screamed.


    The fireman was stunned for a second before jumping down to rescue the girl too.


    Ding Sha was too anxious to care about those people. She leaned over the bridge to see the fireman quickly finding the girl, before finally breathing a sigh of relief.


    But now she felt even more furious.


    Ding Sha turned around and walked up to the man who spoke first. "Do you want her dead so badly?!"


    "Do you like making sarcastic remarks so much? Is your time so precious? More precious than a life?!"


    "Do you not have a heart? No conscience? Do you have a grudge against her? Do you have to force her to her death?!"


    The man dismissively said, "If she really wanted to die, she would''ve jumped down long ago without needing me to say anything. Isn''t she just putting on an act?"


    "Hey, I''ve got a bad temper!" The angry big brother next to him directly took off his shirt and threw a punch at him.


    "What are you doing, assault?!" The man got hit crookedly to the side.


    "Not assaulting people, hitting scum, human trash, scoundrels. But not people." The big brotherughed very unrighteously and cracked his fists which were as big as sandbags.


    The man still wanted to act aggressively but didn''t dare be beaten again. He stared fiercely at the big brother for a few moments before wanting to leave. But the big brother grabbed him by the cor. "Don''t go yet. We''re not done!"


    "Wait until the girl gets up here and you go apologize. Once you''ve apologized then you can go. Understand?"

 Chapter 56: Pork ribs and white Melon Soup

    <h4>Chapter 56</h4>


    When Xiao Jun returned, Ding Sha was still trembling uncontrobly.


    "I almost... I almost couldn''t hold her back..."


    Xiao Jun had already understood the whole situation. He held her andforted, "It''s alright, it''s over now. The young girl has been rescued, and that scumbag has apologized."


    "It''s all in the past."


    Ding Sha held onto Xiao Jun''s clothes in fear and said, "I... I felt so powerless for the first time..."


    She thought for a while and finally said, "So helpless..."


    Xiao Jun kissed her forehead and said, "You''re amazing. You held her back, she didn''t only think about leaving, she had some attachment."


    Ding Sha was still frightened. After thinking for a moment, she stood up and said, "I... I''ll cook some soup and go to the hospitalter."


    "Alright, I''ll help you." Xiao Jun followed her into the kitchen.


    While cooking the soup, Ding Sha was absent-minded the whole time. Xiao Jun had to save her fingers from the knife several times, and in the end, he nervously pushed her onto a chair, saying, "Behave yourself, just watch me."


    Ding Sha didn''t insist and sat on the chair, watching Xiao Jun stew the pork rib soup.


    When they arrived at the hospital, the young girl was still unconscious. The police recognized Ding Sha and chatted with her for a while.


    "The young girl doesn''t have any family left. They used to be a happy family, but they all passed away during the pandemic. She''s the only one left. Maybe she''s exhausted. She''s feeling a bit depressed," the police sighed.


    Ding Sha asked with difficulty, "They... all gone?"


    "All gone. Both her father''s side and her mother''s side. She''s the only one left. When we went to her house for an investigation this afternoon, we asked the neighbors. The young girl used to be pampered and didn''t do any household chores. Now she''s taking care of the funeral arrangements alone. She''s getting thinner every day, with no trace of a smile on her face."


    The police remembered the news they heard in the afternoon and felt a bit sorry.


    "But I can see that she has a good impression of you. If you''re not too busy, try to spend more time with her and encourage her. She''s still young, and saving her life would be a good deed," the police said.


    "Alright, I will definitelye to apany her more and give her encouragement," Ding Sha nodded firmly.


    "By the way, we have already educated those troublemakers. When the young girl wakes up, remember to talk to her about it," the police said. "There''s nothing major for us here. We have a lot of work at the station, but if there''s any situation, remember to call, and we''lle quickly."


    "Okay, I got it," Ding Sha agreed.


    The two of them quietly entered the hospital room. The young girl was lying there with a pale face, sleeping soundly.


    Ding Sha couldn''t help but smooth her hair by her ear.


    The young girl''s eyes twitched, struggling to open them. When she saw Ding Sha, she smiled and said, "Sister."


    "Yes, how do you feel? Is there anything ufortable?" Ding Sha sat down and asked carefully.


    "No, thank you, sister," the young girl shook her head.


    She wanted to sit up, so Ding Sha ced a pillow behind her, and Xiao Jun raised the bed.


    "I stewed some soup for you. Would you like to taste it? It''s a delicious pork rib and winter melon soup," Ding Sha poured a bowl of soup for her.


    The soup was steaming hot, and its aroma filled the air.


    The young girl took a sip and said, "This soup tastes just like the one my mother used to make."


    "I miss her so much."


    The young girl lowered her head, and it was unclear whether she was crying or not.


    "I haven''t seen her in a long time. Since the beginning of the pandemic, I couldn''te home from school, and when I finally returned, I had to go into quarantine. I haven''t seen her since then."


    "I didn''t even get to see her onest time."


    The young girl sighed, "I miss her so much."


    Ding Sha sat up and gently embraced her.


    The young girl began to sob uncontrobly, "Why is it our family? What did we do wrong? Why is it my mom and dad? Why?"


    "I miss them so much! I want to see them! I want to eat the dishes my mom cooked, run with my dad, visit my grandparents, go back to our little courtyard in the countryside and eat watermelon and catch grasshoppers!"


    Ding Sha couldn''t hold back her tears either. She didn''t know how tofort the young girl. Death was always an insurmountable divide, and any constion seemed too light in the face of death.


    The girl cried for a long time, and Ding Sha''s clothes were soaked. It seemed like she hadn''t found a shoulder to lean on and cry like this in a long time.


    Perhaps she had always grown up in a hurry, shouldering the bleak and cruel departure of her entire family, preparing all the arrangements alone.


    When the young girl finally cried herself out, her eyes were red and swollen. "I''m sorry for burdening you with my bad mood all afternoon."


    "A child''s bad mood is asionally allowed to go unchecked."


    Ding Sha gently stroked her hair.


    "I don''t actually want to die," the girl said, "I just suddenly felt that even though the sun is shining, it has nothing to do with me, which made me think of leaving."


    "But now I''ve found someone who can appreciate the sunshine with me."


    The girl smiled, "The process may be difficult, but I will see a psychologist, actively take medication, actively seek treatment, and strive to fight against negative emotions."


    "Can I call you when I feel sad?"


    "Of course, you''re wee anytime." Ding Sha gave her own phone number. "I will check on you every day."


    "Thank you," the girl said earnestly.


    "I''ve been experimenting with new dishestely. If you don''t mind, you cane over every day to taste them. The restaurant is busy, and I might need your help. Are you willing?" Ding Sha was still worried.


    "I''m willing," the girl nodded.


    Ding Sha finally felt relieved.


    On the way home, Xiao Jun held Ding Sha''s hand tightly. This incident had left a deep impact on both of them, and they were at a loss for words.


    Back at the restaurant, they heard Ping An crying, feeling wronged and restless.


    Ding Sha hurried over. "What''s wrong, Ping An?"


    Ping An was squirming in Auntie Zhao''s arms, tears streaming down his face. Ding Sha''s heart ached at the sight.


    "I haven''t seen much of you today. I was looking for you. He''s been crying and couldn''t beforted," Auntie Zhao exined, handing Ping An to her.


    "Come here, don''t cry. Mommy will hold you." Ding Sha held Ping An patiently and gentlyforted him.


    Xiao Jun nced at the mother and son before turning and going into the kitchen.


    Ding Sha had been greatly startled today, and with her poor health, she was afraid she might have a fever tonight.


    Although Ding Sha drank ginger soup, she still developed a fever at night, calling out for Xiao Jun in a dazed state.


    Xiao Jun measured her temperature twice and furrowed his brow, saying, "No, we need to take her to the hospital."


    Hanging the IV drip in the emergency room in the middle of the night, Xiao Jun finally felt relieved as Ding Sha''s sleep became more peaceful.


    However, due to this ordeal, their small shop had to close again.


    Ding Sha sent the improved recipe for the small pickled vegetables to Fan Xiangxiang and asked Du Rourou to film a video of their inventory and inform their online friends before finally settling down at home for isted rest and recovery.


    Xiao Jun isted himself with her, and they spent their days eating and sleeping without much else to do. Whenever they woke up, they would eat again, and in their spare time, they would study recipes. Surprisingly, they gained a few pounds during their istion period.


    Du Rourou was the happiest after their istion because she could once again enjoy many delicious dishes.


    With the reopening of the small shop, business boomed exceptionally. Apart from Zhao Auntie taking care of the children every day, everyone else was busy with various tasks.


    Ding Sha didn''t even have time to rece the withered flowers on the tables.


    Finally, on a day when they had some free time, Ding Sha went to the flower shop and ordered many new varieties of flowers. The small shop also weed a special pair of customers.

 Chapter 57: Fried Shrimp Balls

    <h4>Chapter 57</h4>


    The customers who came in were a husband and wife who looked very well-matched.


    The man held his wife''s hand, "What would you like to eat?"


    The woman shook her head, looking like she didn''t have much of an appetite.


    <Ding Sha> looked at the menu <Du Rourou> handed over, "Hmm... let''s get an order of Kung Pao shrimp balls, a te of tiger skin peppers, a bowl of West Lake beef soup, and two bowls of rice."


    The food came up quickly. Smelling the aromas in the air, the woman couldn''t help feeling rather hungry.


    "The vor''s not bad. Try some," the man picked out a shrimp for her. "The texture of this shrimp is bouncy¡ªthey must be fresh."


    After eating a few bites, the woman also praised, "It really is delicious."


    After eating their fill, the two of them sat in silence.


    The man was the first to speak. "Full? Want shaved ice for dessert? I saw it on the menu."


    "No need, I''ve been too busy thest few days to digest much," the woman shook her head.


    Another stretch of silence.


    "Well... let''s go then," the woman finally said.


    Without a word, they went to pay at the counter. <Du Rourou> smiled and asked, "How was it? The food good?"


    "Very nice, we ate well," the woman smiled back.


    "I''m d to hear. You two look well-matched¡ªyour rtionship must be wonderful!" <Du Rourou> handed back change as she spoke.


    "We match?" The man nced at his wife.


    "Very well-matched. You two have a unique temperament, clearly special, but your auras harmonize so you look very well-suited," <Du Rourou> enthused.


    The woman smiled. "Thank you, youngdy."


    "My pleasure. Pleasee again soon!" <Du Rourou> saw them to the door.


    About a weekter, the couple returned and ordered the same dishes.


    <Du Rourou> still remembered them and greeted them with a smile as she served them.


    The woman also smiled back warmly.


    With few customers in the restaurant, <Du Rourou> sat at a nearby table reading a thick textbook.


    The man suddenly asked, "Not getting divorced?"


    "No divorce," the woman said. "I thought it over more and didn''t see anything uneptable."


    "You serve the country on missions, I save lives at the hospital¡ªjust as the youngdy said, we match," he replied.


    "But..." The man still seemed hesitant.


    "What''s there to fret over?" The woman gave him a reproachful look. "Like I said, we match well."


    She went on, "I''d considered divorcing because we only meet a few times a year and have barely spent any time together. It felt meaningless."


    "But now I don''t want to put anyone else through my unhappiness. We ought to be together."


    "This way when we retire, it''ll be like we just started dating¡ªwe''ll never tire of each other."


    The man lifted his head, eyes wet, "I''ve wronged you, Little Qing."


    "No wrongs here," she chided gently. "I told you, we match well."


    Their conversation wasn''t quiet, but <Du Rourou> had listened in attentively without realizing. Seeing the couple start eating again, she went to the backyard.


    "<Ding Sha>!" <Du Rourou> ran to find Ding Sha and repeated everything she''d overheard.


    "I, I want to buy them a small cake... could you, um..." <Du Rourou> was a little embarrassed asking Ding Sha to bake something impromptu.


    Ding Shaughed and agreed readily. "Of course, but there likely isn''t time to bake a cake now. Why don''t you make them two bowls of shaved ice instead, my treat?"


    <Du Rourou> prepared two deluxe bowls of shaved ice and paid at the counter herself before bringing them out to the couple.


    "Miss, we didn''t order this," the woman said, surprised.


    "My treat," <Du Rourou> exined, flustered. "I identally overheard your conversation earlier... sorry about that. Please take this as my apology."


    The woman froze a moment. "Oh, but..."


    The man, however, smiled¡ªa rare sight. "Thank you, youngdy."


    <Du Rourou> shook her head with an embarrassed smile and went to sit farther away with her book.


    After a big spoon of cool, sweet watermelon, the woman felt refreshed all the way down. As they left, she thought to herself that she''d definitely have to visit again during her next break.


    After finishing up her work, Ding Sha also recounted the incident in full to Xiao Jun. She kept nothing from him except the transmigration into this world.


    Xiao Jun suggested, "After Ping''an gets a little bigger, let''s take a trip. Go to the beach¡ªhow about it?"


    Ding Sha blinked, confused. "Why bring this up all of a sudden?"


    "I feel you''ve lost out, bing a mother so young. I don''t want to keep you tethered here. Let''s go see the outside world!"


    "What about Ping''an then? We''d leave him to go y?"


    "Aunt Zhao is here, along with Sister-in-Law and Auntie!"


    "But the shop?"


    "There''s Wenhao!"


    "......"


    The conversation ended vaguely with Ding Sha murmuring, "We''ll see, we''ll see."


    "<Du Rourou> poked her head in through the curtain. "Sister Ding Sha! The Tasty Ricepany sent samples!"


    Ding Sha went over immediately. "Oh? How do they look?"


    "Haven''t tried them yet, but the packaging looks pretty good!"


    They''dmissioned an illustrator to design packaging featuring Ding Sha''s courtyard and a silhouette of her in the background.


    Ding Sha opened a can and spooned some out. "Have a taste. What do you think?"


    <Du Rourou> tried a spoonful, eyes shining. "Delicious! Good with rice!"


    Ding Sha also sampled some. Though not as tasty as her handmade version, it was still much better thanmercial jarred rice porridge on the market.


    "Tasty Rice raised the price a little," <Du Rourou> read messages on her phone as she ate. "They also hope you can stream to promote the product."


    "Stream?" Ding Sha shook her head decisively.


    "I know my limits. I only have so many followers."


    "Don''t underestimate yourself!" <Du Rourou> retorted. "You broke 500k followers long ago! Great stats!"


    She listed a few other influencers, none growing nearly as quickly as Ding Sha.


    Spurred on by <Du Rourou>, Ding Sha was no longer camera-shy, but still somewhat apprehensive.


    "What if I mess up?"


    "You won''t, you won''t!" After analyzing for ages, <Du Rourou> concluded, "You''d have to try to fail."


    Seeing Xiao Jun nod too, Ding Sha felt a glimmer of anticipation herself. "Well... shall we try?"


    <Du Rourou> excitedly messaged Tasty Rice back while Ding Sha pondered how best to prepare.


    The news that wife would be livestreaming also went out, eliciting derations of support from smitten fans¡ªmuch to the neglected Xiao Jun''s jealousy.


    The sour Xiao Jun thought of making dumplings every day.


    The long-awaited stream day finally arrived. Ding Sha sat nervously before the camera.


    "Um, hi everyone... I''m Leisurely Wind and Moon..."

 Chapter 58: Peach Bun

    <h4>Chapter 58</h4>


    Although her first live stream was awkward from start to finish and she felt very ufortable, the response was surprisingly good and the reward ranking rose to the top ten for a while.


    Ding Sha let out a big sigh of relief after ending the stream, patting her chest, "You scared me to death, thank goodness it''s over."


    Du Rourou was reading thements when she suddenly cried out in surprise after a while, "Oh my god, that''s way too much money!"


    Ding Sha curiously leaned over to take a look as well, widening her eyes in surprise, "Wow! Really a lot!"


    "But we still have to give half to the tform," Ding Sha thought about it and said, "If there''s money left after that, let''s donate it."


    "Huh? Donate?" Du Rourou was puzzled.


    "Yeah, let''s donate it, whether to the hospital or to the school, or use it to buy benefits for doctors, police officers and firefighters if nothing else," Ding Sha stretchedzily, "There''s no end to earning money, and it''s not like we''recking money now anyway. We might as well use it to help others instead."


    "Sis Ding Sha, aren''t you like a goddess of mercy?" Du Rourou couldn''t help but giggle behind her hand, "If others knew they''d all say you have a saintly heart."


    "I''m toozy to care what they say," Ding Sha didn''t mind at all, "I''ll just take it as umting virtues for little Ping''an."


    Saying that, she solemnly put her palms together with eyes closed, chanting, "Bodhisattva? Buddha? God? Can you all hear me? I hope all these blessings go to my son Xiao Sijin, you must give them to him, okay?"


    Xiao Jun happened to walk by and started chanting as well, "Bodhisattva, Buddha, God, don''t listen to her no matter what. It''s best to split it between my wife and my son half each..."


    Hearing this, Ding Sha opened her eyes to re at him, though the corners of her lips were turned up.


    "Oh yes, Teacher Lin said he''d bring students over Friday morning." Xiao Jun remembered the call he just received.


    "That''s still two days away. Just enough time for a thorough cleaning." Ding Sha thought aloud.


    They couldn''t let others film with dust all over the ce in disarray.


    "Oh yes! Sis Ding Sha, I want to take tomorrow off. It''s my grandfather''s 90th birthday and I can''t make it." Du Rourou suddenly remembered something she kept forgetting to mention.


    "No problem, approved." Ding Sha waved her hand breezily.


    "I also wanted to order some dishes. I''ll give you the listter ande pick them up tomorrow, is that okay?" Du Rourou asked.


    "Of course, I''ll have them ready by 11am tomorrow. Juste pick them up."


    Du Rourou ordered some rtivelyplicated dishes not convenient to make at home. Ding Sha even made an additional sweet potato filled longevity peach bun, pretty and tasty.


    When Du Rourou came to pick up the food at around 11am the next day, everything was ready. Ding Sha helped pack it up for her, "Oh yes, congrattions to your grandfather on his longevity as well."


    Du Rourou grinned, "Sis, Boss,e along if you''re not too busy. My grandfather wants me to bring you back too."


    "Huh?" Ding Sha was stunned for a moment.


    "I''m not sure that''s appropriate..."


    Ding Sha quickly waved her hands to decline.


    "What''s inappropriate? My grandfather often said he wanted to meet you. He''s getting on in years and it''s inconvenient for him to go out, which is why he hasn''te. Now that it''s his birthday, he also hopes to see you and Boss." Du Rourou held Ding Sha''s arm sincerely.


    Ding Sha couldn''t refuse, so she called out to Xiao Jun and the two hurriedly tidied up before following Du Rourou to her grandfather''s house.


    The old man lived in a small siheyuan courtyard residence that was elegant and cozy inside.


    Since it was the old gentleman''s birthday, there were quite a few people who all smiled and greeted Du Rourou when they saw her, "Rourou you''re back!"


    Du Rourou greeted them one by one, brought the food to the kitchen for her mother, then led Ding Sha and Xiao Jun to the study.


    The old gentleman''s hair was all white, but he seemed hale and hearty despite sitting in a wheelchair, face wreathed in smiles with kindly benevolent eyes.


    "Rourou you''re back?" Wen Ruxuan was very happy to see Du Rourou.


    Du Rourou smiled as she walked over and crouched down, "I''m back, grandpa! I also brought along Sis Ding Sha and Boss Xiao!"


    "Good, wonderful." Wen Ruxuan looked extremely happy. He gazed at the somewhat bashful and nervous Ding Sha and Xiao Jun, beckoning them over with his hand, "Come here, child."


    Ding Sha immediately walked over with Xiao Jun, "Good day, sir. Congrattions on your longevity, may you live as long as the East Sea."


    Wen Ruxuanughed kindly, "Thank youss. My wife''s health hasn''t been goodtely so she''s sleeping. I''ll bring you to meet her after she wakes."


    Ding Sha quickly said, "Please let the elderly rest well..."


    Wen Ruxuan asked Du Rourou to make tea for them, "Have a seat, don''t keep standing. Must be tiring."


    "I kept hearing Rourou talk about you all the time so I wanted to meet you. This girl has an impulsive personality, must have caused you trouble."


    "No trouble at all. She''s helped me a lot, I should be thanking her instead." Ding Sha earnestly replied.


    Hearing this, Wen Ruxuan was happy as well, "Anyway, thank you. I know what this child is like too since she''s told me a lot. Meeting you has also been good fortune for her."


    Speaking, he shakily wheeled the chair to the side. Ding Sha stood up to help him. He pointed to the desk and Ding Sha pushed him over.


    Wen Ruxuan pulled open the drawer and took out a pair of small gold ornaments, "I have something I want to give you."


    "We can''t ept such a fine gift," Ding Sha quickly refused.


    "They aren''t anything precious," Wen Ruxuan spread open his hand, "My wife and I had these when we were young. It has a nice meaning, bless you two as husband and wife, growing old together white-haired."


    Xiao Jun also walked over.


    Cradled in the old, spotty hand were two tiny bean pedant charms.


    "These bean charms are gold but still not worth much, too small," Wen Ruxuan said, "But they''re carved love beans."


    He held them out to Ding Sha, "Just to invoke good omens, child please ept them."


    Ding Sha reached out to take them over, then looked at Xiao Jun.


    "Thank you, sir." Xiao Jun solemnly said.


    "I''m old now, seen too many things," Wen Ruxuan said, "No regrets other than hoping everyone''s well."


    "You must be blissful."


    After the birthday feast,te into the night, Ding Sha would still take out the love bean pendant to look at and touch from time to time.


    "I really like the old gentleman," Ding Sha suddenly said.


    Xiao Jun uncharacteristically didn''t express any jealousy, also fondling the pendant charm, "Mm."


    "They had such a good rtionship."


    "The old gentleman kept holding his wife''s hand without letting go."


    "The way he looked at her brimmed with deep love."


    "We''ll also be like them, still celebrating birthdays together when we''re 90 right?" Ding Sha rolled over to look at Xiao Jun.


    "Definitely, it''s guaranteed." Xiao Jun gently ced a kiss without any lust on the tip of her nose.


    "I vow to you that when we''re 90, I''ll still be by your side."


    Ding Sha didn''t say anything, simply burrowing into his embrace.


    "Sleep."


    At this moment the two hearts drew exceptionally close.

 Chapter 59: Beef Hot pot with Sour Soup

    <h4>Chapter 59</h4>


    "Meow!"


    As soon as Ding Sha walked into the lobby, he heard Egg Yolk''s extremely loud panting and furious hissing.


    This was followed by a cry of surprise from Du Rourou.


    Ding Sha hurried over to the front desk in a couple of steps, "What happened?"


    When he got there, he saw a big, dirty dog covered in mud sitting innocently at the entrance.


    "Where did this doge from?" Ding Sha was a little puzzled.


    "I don''t know. I was just about to groom Egg Yolk when it suddenly squeezed in from the entrance and gave Egg Yolk a fright." Du Rourou said.


    Although the dog was very well-behaved. It had been sitting on the doormat at the entrance ever since it came in, dripping all the wet mud on its body onto the mat.


    "Oh well, let''s take it out back and give it a bath first, it¡¯s too dirty," Ding Sha looked around, somewhat struggling with how to take it out back.


    The dog wagged its tail. Ding Sha took a chicken jerky treat for Egg Yolk and led the dog out back.


    Gong Sister-inw was startled by the dog, "What a filthy dog!"


    Ding Sha casually exined what happened. Gong Sister-inw immediately grabbed a mop and hurriedly went to mop the floor.


    Ding Sha stuffed the chicken jerky into the dog''s mouth, turned on the sr powered hot water tap in the yard, and he and Du Rourou started scrubbing the big dog.


    They used a lot of pet shampoo before getting the dog clean. The dog just squatted there, lifting its paws whenever they said, turning around and patting its butt to change position when prompted, extremely obedient.


    After washing, Ding Sha could finally see that it was arge Golden Retriever, quite old, with a white face.


    Its eyes were bright ck, its mouth open panting, looking rather smiling.


    Ding Sha couldn''t resist petting it over and over.


    It looked like a very polite dog...


    But it really took some effort to blow dry it, the two of them took turns blowing until their arms ached before Xiao Jun finally came to finish up the job.


    The sweet-smelling dog walked over to Ding Sha and rubbed against her leg, its grape-like eyes fixed on her.


    Ding Sha gave its head and big ears a few delightful rubs that she just couldn''t get enough of.


    But seeing how polite it was, it must have an owner.


    The dog was not eager to move. It justy down by Ding Sha¡¯s feet and didn¡¯t budge, with its warm furry body and thick fur pressing against her legs. Ding Sha squatted down to pet it.


    "Are you lost?"


    "Do you remember where your home is?"


    "Shall I take you home?"


    The dog just opened its mouth wide to yawnzily, then rested its head on its crossed front paws, ncing up at Ding Sha asionally, its bean-like eyes extremely docile.


    Ding Sha sighed. After waiting a little longer unable to stand the sun, she took the dog to their living quarters.


    Once inside, the dog went around sniffing everywhere, then headed straight for Little Ping An''s crib.


    Ding Sha was shocked and hurried after it, only to see the dog continuously sniffing around the crib.


    Little Ping An was in Zhao Auntie¡¯s room. The dog circled around the crib twice before Zhao Auntie came out holding Little Ping An.


    "Wow! Where did this huge doge from?" It was only when Zhao Auntie walked over that she noticed the dog.


    "It came over by itself," Ding Sha patted Little Ping An''s hand. Little Ping An immediately reached out, wanting to be carried.


    Ding Sha picked him up and guided his soft little hand to stroke the dog''s head and big ears. It was Little Ping An''s first time touching a dog.


    The feeling was different from touching Egg Yolk. Egg Yolk was all soft little chubby meat. The dog was not only much thicker to the touch, it also had all those flexor muscles from running around.


    Little Ping An babbled happily.


    After ying with it for a while, Ding Sha said, ¡°Zhao Auntie, take Little Ping An for lunch and a nap after you¡¯ve eaten. He didn¡¯t sleep wellst night and kept fussing around.¡±


    Zhao Auntie took the baby away again. Ding Sha thought for a moment, tied a silk scarf around the dog''s neck as a makeshift leash, intending to take it for a walk around the neighborhood to see if she could find its owner.


    The obedient dog followed her out the door, walking leisurely beside her the whole way, stopping when she stopped and walking when she walked.


    Ding Sha really loved it.


    After circling around, she didn¡¯t run into anyone looking for a dog, so Ding Sha could only stop by a pet store to buy a proper leash and cor to put on it before taking it home.


    Just as they entered, she saw the lobby filled with firemen in orange red uniforms. Ding Sha asked Du Rourou, "Why are there so many people?"


    Du Rourou was busy juicing, "There was a fire in the street next door started by a woman who, distressed over her husband''s affair, impulsively set her own house on fire in her excitement, and the neighbors on both sides were also affected. They just finished putting out the fires and came here for a meal."


    "There are a few young fighters from Yunnan, Guizhou and Sichuan, just 18 or 19 years old, with baby faces but handsome and shy. Brother Xiao heard their ents and made them a few spicy hot pot back in the kitchen."


    As Du Rourou spoke, she asked, "Didn''t find the dog''s owner?"


    "No,¡± Ding Sha shook her head. ¡°I¡¯ll take it to the backyard ande help out in a minute.¡±


    Just then the captain of the squad nced at the dog and suddenly shouted, "Heishan!"


    The dog joyfully trotted in ce, trying hard to restrain its paws because of the leash, extremely excited with its tongue hanging out.


    Ding Sha blinked. "Your...dog?"


    The captain came over, "Our station dog, about to retire."


    He squatted down and ruffled the fur on the dog¡¯s head. Heishan happily rolled around.


    "Heishan is officially registered,¡± the captain said. ¡°We went out on a mission today. We were originally there to rescue people, but on the way back we received a call about the fire so we rushed over. Heishan got all muddy too."


    "We were worried his fur would get burnt in a big fire, so we didn''t let hime along. It was only afterwards that we realized he was missing."


    The captain seemed unconcerned. "Heishan knows the way home, we were just worried that without a cor or a leash, someone might mistake him for a stray."


    "Some of the team members have been going around looking for him. Now that he¡¯s here, I can notify them to hurry back for food and rest."


    The captain then made a phone call, gave a few instructions, and hung up.


    "Heishan was very well behaved. Although he was a bit dirty when he wandered in, he was very polite and didn¡¯t make a fuss at the entrance." Ding Sha said with a smile.


    "That¡¯s good to hear. Heishan likes to go visit other people''s homes for fun. He probably just thought your ce nice." The captain also smiled.


    Du Rourou cut in, "Captain, why is it called Heishan?"


    "Because when we found him as a puppy, we happened to be watching A Chinese Ghost Story, not only did he stay and watch with us, he got especially excited and kept barking when the ck Mountain demon came out, so we just named him Heishan."


    Heishan remained docilely squatting at their feet, no superfluous moves without orders, just asionally ncing up at them. Du Rourou couldn¡¯t resist giving him a few more pats, "So obedient!"


    "Heishan is retiring this year. His handler ns to take him home to retirefortably," said the captain. ¡°He¡¯s very obedient. You can pet him more when he¡¯s off duty like now.¡±


    Du Rourou gave him another good few pats.


    Heishan just looked at her cidly.


    In the end, the squad got a 50 percent discount. The captain said he couldn¡¯t win against Du Rourou and gave a wryugh, saying he¡¯d nevere again, otherwise how would the boss make any money.


    Ding Sha immediately turned to Xiao Jun, "I¡¯d love to have a dog! What do you think about getting one like Heishan?¡±

 Chapter 60: Mooncake

    <h4>Chapter 60</h4>


    In the blink of an eye, the weather turned cool and crisp in autumn.


    Little Xiao Sijin received a new gift, a pair of pretty little shoes. From time to time, Zhao Auntie would hold her little arms as she toddled unsteadily around the floor.


    Ding Sha bought a lot of salted egg yolks and thought that with the Mid-Autumn Festivaling up, she should make some mooncakes.


    She nned to make mooncakes with lotus seed paste and salted egg yolks as well as some with meat filling.


    As for ice skin mooncakes, she thought about it and decided to just order some boxes online instead. She didn''t care much for eating ice skin mooncakes herself, so she wasn''t very confident she could make good ones.


    Recently, Xiao Jun became obsessed with skateboarding. Every day he would put on loose pants and carry his skateboard to go y with his skater buddies at the park down the street.


    Wang Wenhao was already halfway done hanging up the menu at the restaurant. Xiao Jun figured they should hire another chef so that he and Ding Sha wouldn''t have to run around so much in the kitchen anymore.


    After getting tanned a few shades darker, Xiao Jun came back and first took a shower before yfully spending some time with little Xiao Sijin.


    After father and son bonded for a while, Xiao Jun went over to help Ding Sha.


    "Had enough fun?" Ding Sha asked.


    Xiao Jun looked at her expression but couldn''t tell if she was angry.


    "Sha Sha..." Xiao Jun went over grinning to hug her waist.


    Ding Sha impatiently said, "You dark egg, get away from me."


    But Xiao Jun only hugged her tighter.


    Ding Sha helplessly said, "It''s not that I don''t want you to go, but you should at least put on some sunscreen. You got sunburnt and were peeling skin off yourself without even realizing?"


    Xiao Jun wrinkled his nose. "Didn''t want to put it on. That stuff feels gross."


    Ding Sha rolled her eyes. "That''s just psychological. If you go out again tomorrow without putting any on, then don''t bothering home."


    "Okay, okay, I''ll put it on, is that alright?" Xiao Jun reluctantly nodded.


    But the next day Ding Sha nced at the sunscreen bottle to find it still perfectly intact.


    When Xiao Jun came home, he found that Ding Sha was ignoring himpletely, not only that but acting as if he didn''t exist.


    Xiao Jun knew things had gone badly.


    He chased after Ding Sha trying to tell jokes and make herugh, but the usually easily amused Ding Sha didn''t react at all.


    He kept trying to talk to Ding Sha but she refused to even look his way.


    After stealthily watching for a while, Du Rourou went to the kitchen to whisper with Wang Wenhao. "Sister Sha is fighting with Brother Xiao!"


    "Fighting?" Wang Wenhao listened. "I don''t hear any yelling though?"


    "They''re giving each other the silent treatment. Sister Sha is totally ignoring Brother Xiao." Du Rourou said.


    Just as she finished saying so, they saw a dejected Xiao Jun enter the kitchen.


    Unafraid of trouble, Wang Wenhao bluntly went up to him. "Master, is Mistress not talking to you?"


    Xiao Jun gloomily mumbled yes.


    "Howe?" Wang Wenhao was quite curious. After all, Ding Sha had always been even-tempered and all smiles with everyone.


    Xiao Jun briefly exined the reason. Wang Wenhao said, "That''s it?"


    "Mm." Xiao Jun mumbled again.


    "Master, that''s where you went wrong. Mistress cares about you, and you disregarded her concerns even after getting sunburnt. How could she not get angry? Anyone would be angry in her shoes."


    Wang Wenhao said, "Just think, Master. What if Mistress went out every rainy day without an umbre, and when you asked her why, she said she was toozy to take one. And every time, she catches a cold but still refuses to bring an umbre the next time. Wouldn''t you get angry too?"


    Xiao Jun had felt it wasn''t a big deal at first, since it was just some sunscreen. But after hearing Wang Wenhao''s exnation and imagining that scenario, he immediately understood why Ding Sha was angry.


    Xiao Jun patted Wang Wenhao. "I''ll give you a bonus at the end of the month."


    After saying so, he hurried off.


    Ten minutester, Ding Sha came in. "Where did your master go?"


    She didn''t see Xiao Jun anywhere and thought maybe he went out to y again.


    "Didn''t notice." Wang Wenhao said.


    Ding Sha huffed and went back out.


    Wang Wenhao quickly messaged Xiao Jun. "Master!! Mistress is looking for you!! Hurry back!"


    "Where did you run off to?"


    "Master??!!"


    But Xiao Jun didn''t reply at all.


    Ding Sha put the prepared mooncake mix into the oven. She wanted to make the kind of traditional mooncakes with red and green strands wrapped inside kyyers of crust.


    Looking at the mooncakes baking in the oven, Ding Sha felt more and more upset as she thought about it.


    Du Rourou was following her as she filmed ingredients. Suddenly she saw a white hand sharply p the table in the frame.


    "Sister?" Du Rourou was startled.


    Ding Sha came back to her senses. "Oh, sorry, did I scare you?"


    Du Rourou shook her head. "It''s fine. Sister, is your hand okay?"


    Despite knowing she was older than Ding Sha, Du Rourou still habitually called her "sister". Her little uncle said to call leaders at work "sister"!


    Ding Sha looked at her palm, "It''s fine, just a little red."


    "Just a little red from what?" Xiao Jun came in holding a bag.


    Seeing Ding Sha''s expression, Du Rourou took her camera to go look for Wang Wenhao instead.


    Xiao Jun sat down. "Still mad? I''m sorry, it was my mistake. I won''t do it again in the future."


    As he spoke, he took things out of the bag. "Look, I bought a lot of sun protection stuff - hats, arm sleeves, and lots of sunscreen sprays. I promise I''ll bundle up properly every time I go out from now on."


    Ding Sha''s eyes shifted to nce at him. Xiao Jun knew from this that she was no longer angry. He grinned and leaned over wanting to hug her waist.


    Ding Sha pushed him away in disgust. "It''s hot enough without you stinking things up. Stay away from me, dark egg."


    Xiao Jun sniffed himself. "How do I stink! I showered when I came home!"


    Ding Sha red at him. "You just stink, everywhere! Sweat stench! And way too dark!"


    Xiao Jun knew there was no escaping that adjective now.


    "I''ll go rinse off again." He got up to shower.


    Ding Sha rifled through the pile of sun protection items and inspected each one thoroughly before bringing them back to put away properly.


    The staff at the restaurant noticed that recently Ding Sha no longer called the boss "Jun" but a rather amusing sounding new name instead.


    Dark egg.


    The first time Ding Sha directly addressed Xiao Jun as "dark egg" in front of everyone, Xiao Jun resignedly acknowledged it.


    Wang Wenhao nearly did a spit take.


    Du Rourou giggled from a distance. "Sister Sha, you call Brother Xiao a dark egg?"


    "Mm-hmm." Ding Sha agreed very naturally.


    "He''s so dark that if you turn off the lights you can''t find him, what else to call him but dark egg?"


    Xiao Jun could only ept it helplessly.


    On Mid-Autumn festival, the restaurant gave each customer mooncakes. After trying them, some asked if they could buy more from Ding Sha.


    She hadn''t made many, just enough for themselves plus some to give away and share, so there weren''t a lot left over. She simply decided not to sell them.


    But Ding Sha thought that she should prepare earlier next year and sell some mooncakes then.


    Right after the long National Day holidays when employees were still feelingzy about going back to work, Xiao Jun presented two ne tickets to Ding Sha.


    "Let''s go, shall we take a trip too?"


    Ding Sha was stunned for a moment, even forgetting to yawn. "What?"


    She took the tickets and looked at them in confusion. They were tickets to fly to Chengdu.


    "A trip? What about our son? The shop??"

 Chapter 61: Chengdu Tour (Part 1)

    <h4>Chapter 61</h4>


    Even after getting off the ne, Ding Sha was still in a daze, barely believing that she had just left her precious son Ping An and Xiao Jun behind to go on vacation.


    Xiao Jun held one of her hands and pulled their luggage with the other. "Do you want to rest first or eat first?"


    Ding Sha looked around the massive airport, still trying to process everything.


    "Then should we go to the hotel first? We can go out after putting our luggage down," Xiao Jun said, pulling her along to the subway.


    "I booked an Airbnb near Chunxi Road, right across from Tan Duck Blood restaurant," Xiao Jun chattered on. "We can go wander around Chunxi Road first. You''re always saying you want to experience how lively and bustling it is there and take some pictures, so we might as well go check it out."


    Ding Sha took out her phone. "Let me check in with Rourou and the others."


    As soon as she said that, she started missing little Ping An.


    Usually Ding Sha would go see the little one several times a day, reluctant to let go after showering him with kisses and cuddles. Suddenly not having him by her side made Ding Sha feel uneasy.


    "Sis!" The video connected and Du Rourou''s face popped up. She smiled. "You''ve arrived? How is it? Tired?"


    "Not tired," Ding Sha shook her head. "Is the shop busy? How''s Ping An?"


    "Not busy," Du Rourou walked with the camera. "Ping An woke up looking for you for quite a while just now. Couldn''t find you though, so he whined a bit before letting Zhao Auntie distract him to go y. But it looks like he''s still searching for Mommy."


    "Must''ve wanted to act spoiled." Du Rourou stuck her tongue out and flipped the camera around. Ding Sha then saw Ping An happily ying with Zhao Auntie in the backyard.


    Hearing this made Ding Sha even more anxious. "Alright, just wanted to check in with you all. Nothing else, I''ll hang up now."


    If she kept talking, she was afraid she''d end up booking a ticket to fly back immediately.


    Xiao Jun put an arm around her. "Missing Ping An?"


    "Mmm, he''s never been away from me for this long before..."


    "You can''t keep cooping yourself up just for his sake either. Weren''t you always talking about how you wanted to travel when you were younger?" Xiao Jun said.


    "The child is important, but so are you."


    Ding Sha took a deep breath and smiled. "You''re right, I''ll try my best."


    Frankly speaking, no one had an inherent right to demand that another person dedicate their entire being.


    Even if that person was the mother.


    Before a woman bes a mother, she is still a delicate little princess.


    After getting off the subway and walking for a bit, people brushed shoulders all around them. It was hard to believe Chunxi Road could attract so many people even on a non-holiday.


    The Airbnb Xiao Jun booked was very spacious with an open kitchen and bright, airy bathroom. The d¨¦cor and amenities inside were also quiteplete. Ding Sha looked over the ce, unable to decide if it was Mediterranean or Arabian style.


    The rich blues and brightly saturated grid patterns instantly put one in a good mood.


    The two freshened up simply before heading back out.


    They went to Chunxi Road first to check in.


    After Ding Sha snapped several pictures, they entered the IFS mall and took the elevator up to the top floor for more photos with the panda statue. There weren''t too many people up there posing with the statue, so Ding Sha got her shots quickly. Then she and Xiao Jun ducked into a restaurant next door.


    The restaurant had a very Western vibe. Their afternoon tea and meal options were quite extensive, so Ding Sha ordered some simple dishes to start filling up.


    The food was much tastier than she''d imagined. After the two finished eating, they went back downstairs to wander Chunxi Road.


    Ding Sha had heard not to buy food on Chunxi Road, so she followed that advice diligently, merely window shopping and soaking in the leisurely Chengdu afternoon.


    For dinner they didn''t go far, just had hot pot at a nearby Little Sheep restaurant. Xiao Jun turned red from the spiciness, gulping down water to no avail.


    After the meal, instead of rushing back, they strolled down the street hand in hand.


    Although it was nearly 11 PM, there were even more people on the streets than during the day, as if everyone''s nightlife was just getting started.


    On their way back, Ding Sha overheard some students talking about going to eat at Kuixing Lou Street near Kuan Alley tomorrow, so she decided that''s where they would go next to continue their Chengdu food tour.

 Chapter 62: Chengdu Tour (Middle)

    <h4>Chapter 62</h4>


    The next day, Xiao Jun slept until eight or nine o''clock before getting up. His face was swollen from sleep, his eyes were narrowed, and his hair was sticking up.


    Ding Shaughed when she saw him, "Do you want to sleep some more?"


    Xiao Jun shook his head and washed up, twisting and turning.


    The cold water stimted him and Xiao Jun came to with a fright.


    Ding Sha wore an embroidered light blue cheongsam, her hair pinned up with a hairpin behind her head, looking very gentle.


    Xiao Jun wore a white T-shirt and jeans. The two of them went out the door feeling fresh and cool.


    First they ate two leek stuffed buns by the roadside, then drank a bowl of Emei tofu pudding before happily taking the subway to KuanZhai, satisfied.


    There weren''t too many people on the subway. Ding Sha and Xiao Jun found a seat. Everyone was leisurely scrolling through their phones. The girls were dressed beautifully with delicate makeup, chatting in groups of three or two as they went out to y.


    Ding Sha unconsciously smiled, "It''s really nice here."


    "It feels like everyone is living a leisurely life without much pressure. When we get old, let''se back here, okay? I saw many grandpas and grandmas holding hands and taking a walk in the park yesterday."


    "Okay, when we get old, we''lle back here and I''ll take you on walks every day," said Xiao Jun, brushing aside the hair blowing onto her face.


    They arrived at KuanZhai, walking through the long passageway. There were many locals wearing sun hats and holding maps shouting out directions at the subway exit.


    Perhaps because it wasn''t a holiday, there weren''t as many people in KuanZhai as they expected. The peopleing and going all spoke in the local ent, walking slowly with their hands behind their backs as they strolled around.


    The chirping of birds was clear, the sky was azure blue.


    Unconsciously, they also slowed down their pace, blending into the crowd.


    Xiao Jun was still speaking broken Sichuanese, asking people how much a popsicle cost.


    After walking up and down two alleyways without buying anything, they were heating up instead. They walked past Paulownia tree street, walked past streets shaded densely with trees, smelling the aroma of hot pot and skewers constantly drifting from the streets. Finally they squeezed into a small pub next to Paulownia tree street and ordered two sses of yangzhi manlu.


    The instant the icy drink entered their mouths, it felt like their whole bodies cooled down. The zing hot summer days still tested one''s patience. It was just that the moment they walked from the streets into an air-conditioned shop, there were only four words in their hearts ---- survived!


    Ding Sha and Xiao Jun stayed in the shop until nearly two o''clock in the afternoon before dragging their empty stomachs out to find some lunch.


    Although they sat for a long time and chatted for a long time, it seemed they didn''t talk about anything important. They just sat there and slowly enjoyed life.


    Walking up and down Kuixing Building Street, they finally decided to eat at a Spanish restaurant.


    The reason was that Xiao Jun, who had trouble handling spicy food, had diarrhea that morning.


    The restaurant had a quiet environment, with slow, tender music ying. A pretty girl came up to greet them, "A table for two? Sit wherever you''d like."


    They sat at a window table and ordered a seafood rice dish, some small potatoes, and shrimps, while drinking lemon water.


    They didn''t order too much because they wanted to experience some snacks in the afternoon.


    The flowers on the table were very beautiful. Xiao Jun took out his camera to take pictures of Ding Sha.


    The girl who brought the food was stunned for a moment when she saw Ding Sha''s face, then unrestrainedly praised, "Miss, you''re so beautiful! Very lovely!"


    Over the past few days, Ding Sha had heard suchpliments many times. Chengdu people seemed to be like this, enthusiastic and generous with their praises of strangers'' beauty.


    At first Ding Sha was a little shy, butter she could happily say thank you with a smile. She also looked forward to dressing herself up, as if her long suppressed inner girl had been set free.


    Xiao Jun smiled as he watched Ding Sha choosing outfits in front of the mirror, starting to pay attention to makeup and dressing up. Xiao Jun didn''t find it annoying at all, only feeling happy.


    He was happy to see such a cheerful and lively Ding Sha, as if she had never gone through life''s hardships.

 Chapter 63: Autumn Pear Paste

    <h4>Chapter 63</h4>


    The journey did notst long, because the little one at home could not be coaxed.


    Tiantian had tears brimming in her eyes as she sobbed on the screen.


    Ding Sha was extremely distressed and could not coax her well after trying for a long time.


    Xiao Jun simply bought return tickets. Although it was a trip for two, the baby at home was also their heart.


    Moreover, the purpose of this trip was also achieved.


    Ding Sha looked more generous and dazzling, smiled more, talked more, and became more naughty.


    On the way back, Ding Sha was still a little reluctant. "I still want to eat shaved ice! The shaved ice in that store tasted particrly good..."


    Xiao Jun pinched her nose and said, "We''lle back to eat it next time."


    So Ding Sha became happy again.


    When they returned home, the little one was still sleeping. Ding Sha distributed the specialties and gifts she had bought to everyone, theny down next to Little Ping An and waited for him to wake up.


    After about ten minutes, Ping An''s nose wrinkled, he kicked his legs, his eyshes fluttered a few times, and he slowly opened his confused eyes.


    He turned his head to see the smiling Ding Sha and was stunned for a moment before reacting that his mother had returned.


    Tears suddenly welled up in his eyes. He looked at Ding Sha as if he wanted to cry but not cry, reaching out and calling for a hug.


    Ding Sha hurriedly and distressedly picked him up and hugged him, coaxed and kissed him, "Good baby, mom is here, don''t cry, don''t cry..."


    Little Ping An hugged Ding Sha''s neck and refused to let go. He clung on tightly, and even refused to let go when eating. He was afraid that if he let go, his mother would disappear again.


    At night, he was drowsy but still held on to Ding Sha''s fingers. Zhao Auntie came to take the child, but he cried loudly as soon as she touched him, and could not be coaxed to close his eyes no matter what.


    Ding Sha kissed him and said, "Let him sleep with me tonight."


    Zhao Auntie said, "That¡¯s good too. The little one is attached to his mom and only feels safe by his mom''s side."


    Seeing Zhao Auntie leave, Little Ping An crawled to Ding Sha''s side, hugged her arm, curled up nicely in Ding Sha''s arms, and made two sounds before slowly closing his eyes.


    Ding Sha gently hugged Little Ping An, reaching out to gently pat his back to coax him to sleep.


    Xiao Jun came out after taking a bath and saw Ping An. "Still unwilling to leave?"


    "Well, let him sleep with us. I miss him too." Ding Sha said softly.


    Xiao Jun turned off the lights and got into bed, leaned over and kissed his precious son as well, "Sleep, you guys had a tiring day today."


    "Mm." Ding Sha responded and slowly closed her eyes.


    Xiao Jun alsoy down. Little Ping An stretched out his legs and unconsciously touched Xiao Jun with his hand, falling asleep with soft snores.


    The family of three slept very soundly and didn¡¯t get up until noon. When Ding Sha carried Ping An out, Si Le was already sitting there teaching Little Shitou to recognize characters and numbers.


    Seeing Ding Sha return, Si Le smiled brightly with his mouthful of white teeth. ¡°Mistress!¡±


    Ding Sha went over and rubbed his round head. ¡°Here already? Had your meal?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Si Le said with a smile.


    Little Shitou also slowly called out, "Mistress!"


    Ding Shaughed. "Hey! Little Shitou is so good!"


    "Brother!" Little Shitou clung to the table looking at Ping An in Ding Sha''s arms.


    Ping An was also curiously biting his fingers looking at Shitou.


    "He''s your brother. Come on, say hi," Ding Sha squatted halfway down and held Ping An''s hand greeting Shitou. "Hello Stone Brother, I¡¯m Little Ping An~"


    Little Ping An turned his head and buried it on Ding Sha''s shoulder, but secretly looked at Little Shitou.


    Little Shitou reacted nkly for a moment. "Oh, hello brother!"


    As he spoke, he wanted to stand on the stool. Si Le hurriedly hugged him so he could see Little Ping An.


    After the two little onespleted their friendly exchange, Ding Sha carried Ping An out. They only took two steps outside the front door.


    But it was soon time for lunch. In between, there were constant customersing in. Xiao Jun and Wang Wenhao took turns cooking while the customersughed and greeted Ding Sha.


    Du Rourou bit her chopsticks. ¡°Sis, you¡¯ve changed so much!¡±


    "Really?" Ding Sha smiled. ¡°Is that good?¡±


    "Good!" Du Rourou nodded.


    So Ding Sha began to enthusiastically promote Chengdu to Du Rourou, promote the food, and promote the attitude towards life.


    In the end, the two girls made an appointment to go to Chengdu together next time.


    Wang Wenhao took off his apron. ¡°Sis, I¡¯m asking for leave.¡±


    "My grandma passed away."


    "Ah?" Ding Sha was stunned for a moment.


    "My grandma is gone. My dad asked me to go back." Wang Wenhao wiped his face.


    ¡°If there''s anything you need from us, just speak up directly." Ding Sha nodded and said.


    Wang Wenhao didn''t say much, just nodded and left.


    Du Rourou still couldn¡¯t react. ¡°How...how so suddenly...¡±


    "Sigh..." Ding Sha shook her head and sighed.


    She looked at the baby in her arms.


    Peoplee and people go, this is probably life.


    A weekter, Wang Wenhao came back.


    "How is it?" Ding Sha asked with concern.


    Wang Wenhao was expressionless. ¡°It¡¯s done. My grandma passed away in her sleep. Her expression was very serene. I guess you could say she died a natural death."


    ¡°I feel like she went to my grandfather. Shortly before my grandfather passed, I heard her whisper to my grandfather to wait for her because she wanted to taste the food my grandfather loved to eat.¡±


    ¡°I thought she wanted to tell my grandfather how it tasted after eating those foods.¡±


    Wang Wenhao even smiled. ¡°Old folks always had good feelings for each other. Even when they mored and yelled, they wouldn¡¯t stay mad until the next day.¡±


    Ding Sha was silent for a moment. ¡°She probably missed your grandfather too much.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s what I thought too.¡± Wang Wenhao said.


    Life continued on steadily.


    Autumn passed in the blink of an eye. Ding Sha put on a thick coat and wondered, ¡°Why do I feel like autumn barely happened before it was gone?¡±


    ¡°Do we even really have autumn??¡±


    Xiao Junughed. ¡°Although it was short you can¡¯t deny its existence.¡±


    Ding Sha pouted her lips. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll admit it existed.¡±


    With that said, she went out to buy pears because she wanted to make autumn pear paste.


    Recently, everyone in the store had varying degrees of cough symptoms.


    Although it couldn''t be said to be serious, coughing was still a little ufortable.


    Medicine is only good in moderation so she simply decided to make some autumn pear paste and drink it every day.


    She brought along Du Rourou and the two girls carried back tworge bags of pears from the market.


    Du Rourou set up the camera, not wasting any chances to capture footage.


    Making autumn pear paste wasn''t difficult, just time consuming.


    Luckily Ding Sha was a very patient person. She did it step by step steadily while chatting with Du Rourou about the background information these past few days.


    ¡°The Rice Fragrant report said that the sales data was very good and they hoped there could be further cooperation.¡±


    ¡°Further cooperate on what?¡± Ding Sha blinked. ¡°I don¡¯t really have many other pickle recipes I can contribute.¡±


    ¡°No no, Rice Fragrant has more than just pickles! They have other things too!¡±


    As Du Rourou spoke, she took out her phone and tapped a few times to show Ding Sha.


    ¡°Their family also has an instant food product line, it¡¯s just not well known because the sales volume is not good. They said they wanted to talk to you about this instant food product line.¡±


    ¡°Instant food products?¡±

 Chapter 64: Lettuce Roast

    <h4>Chapter 64</h4>


    In line with what Du Rourou said, the Fast Food Fragrance Family restaurant did open a new production line for fast food products.


    However, whether it was because the taste was not good or the promotion was inadequate, business had always beenckluster with continuous losses.


    The person in charge was also at wit¡¯s end and heard that Ding Sha helped sell the pickled vegetables well, so he also wanted to try his luck.


    Ding Sha did not immediately agree but went over there again to investigate. Obviously, the production line was very good and the ingredients used were also fine.


    After Ding Sha came back, she began to research what kind of dishes would be more suitable to promote in fast food products.


    She signed another contract with the Fast Food Fragrance Family again. The person in charge smiled and shook hands with her, ¡°I look forward to working more with you in the future. Our whole factory is very much looking forward to your participation.¡±


    Ding Sha also smiled and exchanged a few polite remarks.


    After returning home, she bought all varieties and vors of fast food products on the market, including rice, hotpot, sour and spicy noodles, etc.


    The Fast Food Fragrance Family mainly produced self-heating fast food products. Every day, Ding Sha opened a few packets of instant rice meals and ate them together with Xiao Jun and Du Rourou. In the end, Du Rourou felt nauseous at the sight of instant rice meals after eating too much.


    Finally, they decided to make a potato and beef dish first. The unchangingbination of soft, mushy potatoes with soft, well-stewed beef was vorful. With the viscous gravy tititing the taste buds.


    Ding Sha felt that no one would be able to resist such a dish.


    After sending the ratio of ingredients for her homecooked dish to the Fast Food Fragrance Family, Ding Sha finally took a break.


    She had been busy for a few days. As for the video, she simply filmed a product review of the fast food meals. Fans were joking that Ding Sha might have started developing her own product because she couldn¡¯t stand the taste of fast food meals.


    In a way, the fans were spot on.


    Ding Sha sat in the cashier counter. She had not sat here for a long time and for a moment, felt rather novel.


    The door was knocked gently as a pair of skeletal brown hands pushed the door open. An emaciated old man speaking in a rural ent asked her, ¡°Youngdy, do you sell leftover rice here?¡±


    Ding Sha did not understand and felt rather awkward. It was Du Rourou who came over and repeated it again.


    There were very few leftovers from rice and dishes at the restaurant. Whatever little leftovers would be poured together and removed by the garbage truck at night.


    The old man stood hunchbacked at the door, looking at her apprehensively.


    Du Rourou whispered to Ding Sha that this was a rag picker.


    Seeing how old he was, Ding Sha felt sympathetic.


    There were only a few tables of guests at the moment. Ding Sha asked Du Rourou to bring him to the backyard and had Wang Wenhao cook him a bowl of beef noodles.


    The beef was stewed and cut into thin slicesyered over the noodles. The old man looked somewhat at a loss as he gazed at Ding Sha.


    ¡°Eat up,¡± Ding Sha had him sit down and ced the bowl in front of him.


    The old man rubbed his hands and brought them together to bow deeply before finally picking up his chopsticks with trembling hands to eat.


    He did not eat quickly but he ate with relish. Ding Sha was afraid he would feel ufortable and moved to the side, hugging Little Ping An as she yed on the swing.


    When the old man finished his meal, she went over. ¡°Have you eaten your fill? There¡¯s more if not enough.¡±


    The old man kept waving his hands. ¡°Enough, enough.¡±


    He looked at the fair and chubby Little Ping An. ¡°What a good looking baby, blessed one.¡±


    He was probably an introverted old man. He came and went, only saying that one line. Ding Shaughed and thanked him but he kept waving his hands.


    Ding Sha sent him off and when they reached the door, she said, ¡°If you¡¯re hungry in future,e here again. I can¡¯t give you anything else but at least I can still give you a full meal.¡±


    The old man brought both hands together again to bow deeply towards her. Ding Sha smiled and moved to the side for him. The old man tottered two steps before turning back again. Ding Sha waved to him.


    The old man also clumsily waved back before slowly walking away, his snake skin bag on his back.


    Du Rourou walked over. ¡°Sis, you¡¯re so kind-hearted.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s so kind about it,¡± Ding Sha shook her head. ¡°I just hope everyone can live a little better.¡±


    ¡°Everyone will grow old. I¡¯m helping others now. When I grow oldter or when my son grows old, if we encounter difficulties, I also hope there will be people to help us.¡±


    Du Rourou oh-ed and said, ¡°Anyway to him, you¡¯re still kind-hearted.¡±


    Ding Sha smiled and shook her head again.


    It was just a bowl of noodles to her and was not much but to that old man, it was very important.


    If help can be rendered, why not just help?


    Ding Sha carried Little Ping An into the room. The winds were getting strong and she was afraid he would catch a cold.


    The colder it got, the more she craved for something piping hot. At the insistence of the Fast Food Fragrance Family, Ding Sha gave them the recipe for the hotpot soup bases too.


    This included m, mushroom and tomato vored ones.


    The Fast Food Fragrance Family was ambitious and wanted to make a mightyeback.


    Some items were also removed from the menu of the little shop. Mainly, a series of nourishing soups was promoted. Hence, business had been exceptionally goodtely.


    Customers who drank a bowl of soup wouldfortably slouch against the chair back with their eyes closed, a picture of bliss.


    Little Ping An grew very quickly. He could now stand on the ground by himself. Even when held by one hand by Auntie Zhao, he could still walk a few steps. His eyes were big and bright like grapes.


    The neighbors on both sides praised that the child was very well taken care of. Ding Sha reckoned that by New Year, she could let him try real meals and understand what they tasted like. After all, he was the child from a family that ran an eatery. How could he not know what food tasted like? Ding Sha thought to herself rather amusedly.


    Da Zhuang finallypleted a few orders in quick session and was gleeful from his handsome earnings.


    He bought new clothes and gifts for his children and sister-inw Gong who scolded him with her mouth but was ted inside.


    Before she couldin much, Da Zhuang went off again to handle his new work order.


    Sister-inw Gong stood at the door watching him leave with a soft sigh.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, he¡¯ll be back quickly,¡± Ding Shaforted her.


    ¡°I¡¯m not hoping that he¡¯ll earn me a mansion. Having enough to spend with some savings and not owing the children is good enough,¡± said Sister-inw Gong. ¡°I¡¯m just afraid he¡¯s working too hard. He¡¯s such a big man yet he has be thinner.¡±


    Wang Wenhao interjected, ¡°Such is life.¡±


    Sister-inw Gong sighed again and went back in.


    Du Rourou red at him. Wang Wenhao scratched his head guiltily.


    Ding Sha collected a lot of charcoal from Uncle Wei and customized small stoves for grilling meat.


    Lean beef, quality pork belly meat and the QQ bouncy smoked sausage, when grilled over charcoal and wrapped with lettuce and garlic slices while dipped in BBQ sauce, was extremely satisfying as the morsel entered the mouth.


    There was always a constant stream of customers at the little shop and the delicious dishes changed daily.


    Over time, it made its way into the top five must-eat local specialty foods list.


    Not a few foodies from the surrounding cities also chose to drive down over the weekends to sample the fare.


    Theyughingly remarked that they now know about this shop and have eaten there before, rendering it impossible for them to escape its draw in future.


    A satisfied customer is the highest praise to a chef. Wang Wenhao was brimming with enthusiasm daily and his culinary skills improved tremendously. Coupled with that was the wider spread of the Wang Family Cuisine¡¯s name.


    When Wang Zhengyang found out about it, he was very gratified. He made a special trip down to praise and warn Wang Wenhao to avoid him bing arrogant orcent.


    However, Wang Wenhao always engaged his mouth before his brain so by the time the words came tumbling out, it would be toote to retract them. Wang Zhengyang was so annoyed that his moustache bristled as he swung his sleeves and stormed off.


    That night, Xiao Jun specially asked Wang Wenhao to stay back. ¡°Pack up in a few days¡¯ time and go back home.¡±


    ¡°Master? You want to chase me away?¡± Wang Wenhao panicked.

 Chapter 65: Dog Food

    <h4>Chapter 65</h4>


    "It''s not that I''m chasing you away, I''ve been intending to do this for a while," Xiao Jun said, "Now that you''ve learned Wang family cuisine well, you should go back to your own family''s restaurant. It doesn''t look right for you to keep staying here like this."


    "What doesn''t look right about it?" Wang Wenhao shook his head, "I just like staying here. Please let me stay, Master."


    "Your father came today wanting to call you back too," Xiao Jun said, "I don''t know why he didn''t say it outright, but he wants you to go back and inherit the business."


    "I don''t want to," Wang Wenhao pouted, "I''m stubborn by nature. I don''t want to go back. I think this is good. I just want to stay here."


    "You little brat," Xiao Junughed at him, "You don''t want the family business anymore? You don''t want your parents anymore?"


    "My dad has already taken on disciples. The restaurant can definitely keep operating. My dad is only in his fifties and still hale and hearty. If I really made him go back home to retire, he would be unhappy," Wang Wenhao said, "Just let me stay here for now. When it''s time to go back, I''ll go back myself."


    Xiao Jun didn''t insist on persuading him further and agreed.


    Du Rourou walked out from the door, "Wang Wenhao, are you leaving?"


    She had gotten up to get some water and overheard the conversation between the boss and Wang Wenhao unintentionally. Her heart was in turmoil and she couldn''t help bute out to ask for rification.


    Wang Wenhao shook his head, "I''m not leaving."


    Du Rourou seemed to breathe a sigh of relief. "Not leaving, that''s good."


    "Would you miss me?" Wang Wenhao teased her.


    Du Rourou hopped three feet into the air, "Don''t be so full of yourself, of course not!"


    "I''m leaving tomorrow, going back home," Wang Wenhao suddenly said.


    "Didn''t you say you weren''t leaving?" Du Rourou was stunned for a moment.


    "I was kidding you. I have to leave eventually, just like Master said. I can''t stay here forever," Wang Wenhao said.


    "Then...then..." Du Rourou unconsciously started fiddling with her clothes.


    "You have toe back and visit from time to time..."


    Wang Wenhao asked her again, "Would you miss me?"


    Du Rourou didn''t speak at first, but seeing Wang Wenhao''s unusually serious face, she finally nodded lightly, "Mm."


    "Why?" Wang Wenhao relentlessly pursued.


    "We...we''re colleagues, friends, of course I would feel reluctant to part..." Du Rourou said.


    "Just colleagues? Just friends?" Wang Wenhao took a step towards her, frightening Du Rourou into unconsciously taking a step back.


    Wang Wenhao stared fixedly into her eyes. Du Rourou felt a little nervous, opened her mouth wanting to say something but didn''t say it.


    Wang Wenhao just kept staring at her, motionless.


    Du Rourou finally seemed to give up and say, "No, not just..."


    Before she could finish speaking, Wang Wenhao interrupted her.


    "I understand now," Wang Wenhao said.


    "Understand what?" Du Rourou didn''t react for a moment.


    "I understand your thoughts," Wang Wenhao said, "Let me continue from here."


    "Rourou, I''ve liked you for a long time. Can you be with me?" Wang Wenhao said very solemnly. His usually casual face now looked deeply affectionate.


    Du Rourou felt somewhat at a loss.


    Wang Wenhao said, "Although I''m just a cook, I swear that from now on I will always put you first. You are my number one priority."


    Du Rourou''s face flushed slightly red. She didn''t expect that just getting up at night for some water would lead to this. She bit her lip and finally agreed.


    Who made her unknowingly fall for Wang Wenhao too?


    Du Rourou had a smile at the corners of her mouth, harboring the private thoughts of a young girl as she went back to bed, while also carrying a trace of sadness over the impending separation.


    The next morning when she woke up, she saw Wang Wenhao in the kitchen as usual, practicing his knifework.


    "Weren''t you going to leave?" Du Rourou ran over and asked him.


    "I was kidding you," Wang Wenhao breezily said before swiftly running off before Du Rourou could react.


    Du Rourou was stunned for a moment. "Wang! Wen! Hao!"


    She angrily clenched her fists.


    "You bastard, go die!!!"

 Chapter 66: Lantern Festival

    <h4>Chapter 66</h4>


    The first snow of winter came very quickly, faster than imagined.


    It was as if just yesterday they were still discussing knitting Little Ping An a sweater for the autumn, and today they suddenly had to prepare to buy down jackets for the baby.


    Time passed so fast that Ding Sha was a little caught off guard.


    Thinking back to being anxiously pregnant with Little Ping Anst year, and this year he can already make vague gurgling sounds, Ding Sha just felt it was wondrous.


    On New Year''s Day they opened the door very early. Xiao Jun insisted on selling tangyuan rice balls in his shop. Ding Sha just went along with him.


    They prepared sesame, peanuts, rose bean paste fillings, as well as fresh meat fillings. All were fillings that Ding Sha made herself and delivered to the tangyuan shop to wrap.


    The cooked tangyuan contained Jiuniang wine brew, sweet and eating them made one happily squint one''s eyes.


    Du Rourou was reluctant to stretch out her hands due to the cold, and squeezed next to Wang Wenhao to share a bowl with him.


    Si Le fed Little Shitou first before eating himself.


    Gong Sister-inw put a bowl in a thermal container to bring over to Da Zhuangter.


    Looking at Si Le, Zhuang Auntie smiled very kindly.


    Lin Jiayu knocked on the door and entered, ¡°Good morning!¡±


    Ding Sha greeted him, ¡°Morning, Teacher Lin. Have you eaten? Would you like a bowl of tangyuan?¡±


    "To be honest, I actually smelled the aroma and that''s why I came in. Do you believe me?" Lin Jiayu smiled as he sat down, not at all pretentious.


    So Ding Sha smilingly asked him which filling he wanted.


    Lin Jiayu thought for a moment and asked for two different ones.


    The tangyuan were small, finished in two bites each, so eating a bowl with more didn¡¯t make one¡¯s stomach bloated.


    In winter there were few people who got up early to eat breakfast. Most were vaguely bleary-eyed, going out to walk the dog or work overtime. They came in to buy a bowl of hot tangyuan to painfully scaldingly finish before rushing at deadly speed to catch the bus.


    Sitting by the window watching the few people outside, Lin Jiayu contentedly sighed, ¡°I wanted to do this in the summer too. My first reaction when I came in wasn¡¯t too sad then either, but that I felt sitting here drinking tea in the winter would definitely be veryfortable."


    Ding Sha asked him, ¡°What about now?¡±


    Knowing what she was asking, Lin Jiayuzily propped his cheek looking like a satisfied big cat, ¡°It¡¯s pretty good, you could even say making lemonade out of lemons.¡±


    Ding Sha tilted her head.


    So Lin Jiayu started telling her about it.


    He had always kept himself tightly wrapped up before, never telling anyone about matters regarding his sexual orientation. After a long time his heart always felt suffocated. Having someone like Ding Sha to confide in now, he didn¡¯t mind telling her about it either.


    ¡°My parents never agreed to us being together. I moved out of home when I started university, although still living in the same city, I really didn¡¯t run into them much after that.¡±


    ¡°I know they deliberately avoided all the areas I might possibly appear.¡±


    ¡°The matter of him cheating made my parents find out. They were very angry but awkwardly asked me to return home.¡±


    ¡°I was actually quite happy. I had been prepared to be alone all my life, but I didn¡¯t expect my parents who had always been so stubborn and old-fashioned to actually go inquire about other men.¡±


    Saying this heughed and shook his head, ¡°It¡¯s pretty cute.¡±


    ¡°Then you¨C¡± Ding Sha was astonished for a moment.


    ¡°I¡¯ll bring him to meet you another day, so you can at least see each other since I¡¯ll have to bring him around in the future anyway.¡± Lin Jiayu said very openly.


    ¡°Great!¡± Ding Sha was truly happy for him.


    After sending Lin Jiayu off, Xiao Jun came out holding Little Ping An.


    ¡°Why did you take him outside? It¡¯s so cold out and he hasn¡¯t woken up yet.¡± Ding Sha carefully wrapped Little Ping An up tighter.


    ¡°To get some fresh air. Can¡¯t be cooped up indoors every day.¡± As Xiao Jun spoke he freed a hand to pick up a skateboard too.


    ¡°You took out the skateboard too?¡± Ding Sha was astonished.


    ¡°To show it to the skater boys. They¡¯ve been wanting to see my son for a long time.¡± Xiao Jun said somewhat proudly.


    ¡°If your son gets sick, you go rolling out of here gracefully with your skateboard. Got it?¡± Ding Sha smiled.


    ¡°Promise. Even if I¡¯m sick, my son cannot have anything happen to him.¡± Xiao Jun raised three fingers again.


    Ding Sha spat at him. ¡°As if I¡¯d believe that.¡±


    Still she carried her son along with Xiao Jun to the park where they often went skateboarding.


    Having just walked over, the skater boys were ying wildly. Then they saw the handsome guy and beautiful woman carrying what looked like a finely carved jade baby walking over.


    ¡°Whoa!!!!!¡±

 Chapter 67: The Wedding

    <h4>Chapter 67</h4>


    The boys looked casual yet distinctive, seemingly young in age. Xiao Jun greeted everyone familiarly before introducing Ding Sha and Little Ping An.


    The guys chuckled lightheartedly, greeting them in a friendly and polite manner.


    After chatting with them briefly, Ding Sha and Little Ping An quietly went to the side as to not disturb them further.


    The guys gathered around Xiao Jun. "Not bad, Brother Jun. Your wife is so beautiful and your baby is so cute too - your family is perfect!"


    Xiao Jun cockily smirked a little, his expression very punchable.


    Little Ping An had woken up and was staring out curiously, in particr ogling unblinkingly at Xiao Jun. Ding Sha was dying of curiosity.


    Was Little Ping An looking at his dad, or simply staring nkly at a moving object?


    After ying a couple rounds, Xiao Jun came over. "Let''s go back."


    "You''re not ying anymore?" Ding Sha was startled for a moment, as Xiao Jun would usually y for much longer.


    "No, I just brought you guys to meet everyone, so they don''t keep asking me if the kid is fun to y with all day long." Xiao Jun was sweating a little, his body heated up.


    He first covered Ding Sha¡¯s icy cold hands before scooping Little Ping An into his arms. The two of them headed back home together.


    Unable to sit still, Xiao Jun drove to the market again to buy New Year''s goods for everyone.


    Ding Sha sat in the house baking egg tarts. She had covetously smelled the fragrant aroma when passing by a cake shop a couple days ago, and today decided to try making some herself.


    Du Rourou was video editing while cradling herptop, awaiting the egg tarts.


    Ding Sha¡¯s blogger career was also slowly getting on track. Unable to handle it alone, she had Du Rourou take charge of that aspect, giving her a separate sry.


    Du Rourou felt like she had found a professional job fitting of her skills, extremely ted every day.


    The New Year came early this year, the Spring Festival arriving not long after New Years Day.


    Xiao Jun had given the employees vacation and benefits, leaving only their family of three plus Zhuang Auntie, Si Le and the others.


    The few of them sat together wrapping dumplings, frying dishes, baking cakes, preparing to celebrate Little Ping An¡¯s first birthday during the New Year festivities.


    A table full of fine wine and food, Xiao Jun sitting at the head but not uttering a word for a toast.


    Xiao Jun hesitated for a bit. "Today is New Year¡¯s, wishing everyone a happy new year."


    Everyone joyfully raised their sses.


    After drinking one cup, Xiao Jun lifted another.


    "This cup is to thank Zhuang Auntie for her help. Without you, I might not have been able to see Ding Sha again."


    Even left unsaid, the fact that he wasn''t there when Little Ping An was born is something he would never forget his whole life.


    Raising the third cup,


    "With this cup, I''d like everyone to bear witness." Xiao Jun looked towards Ding Sha. "April 3rd is a good date. Shall we have our wedding then?"


    Ding Sha was startled for a moment. "Okay."


    She didn''t cry this time, just smiled and held Xiao Jun''s hand that had been trembling under the table the whole time.


    "I''ve prepared several ns, Chinese and Western styles, see which you like." Xiao Jun said.


    Ding Sha murmured in agreement, suddenly starting to anticipate April 3rd.


    But before the romantic wedding was the long and tedious wedding preparation. Ding Sha was tired trying on dresses and getting things ready, making her want to call the whole thing off at one point.


    Xiao Jun was even more energetic, eagerly hurrying her out of bed every day to prepare. Ding Sha decided to just let him handle the preparations while she focused on some menu nning and other tasks at the shop.


    Xiao Jun was constantly darting in and out every day, not looking tired at all.


    Little Ping An happily ate his solids every day, even babbling and iling his limbs excitedly after an especially tasty meal.


    He was growing quickly, his features increasingly resembling Xiao Jun''s, a mini carbon copy of Xiao Jun.


    Ding Sha wondered sometimes, people say boys resemble their mother and girls resemble their father, so why does Little Ping An look so much like his dad?


    Ding Sha secretly pulled out a diaper to double check. "He''s definitely a boy..."


    Zhao Auntie smiled knowingly as Ding Sha acted silly. "Don''t worry, you''ll see the resemnce to his mother as he grows up more."


    Ding Sha stuck out her tongue.


    The scale of the wedding wasn''t big, with not too many invited guests, all intimate ones.


    As Ding Sha slowly walked towards him in her pure white wedding dress, Xiao Jun couldn''t hold back his tears.


    "You fool, what are you crying for," Ding Sha wiped his tears.


    "I''m just happy." Xiao Jun''s voice was hoarse.


    Not knowing what to say, Ding Sha gently wiped his tears.


    "We voluntarilye together as husband and wife. From this day forth, we shall share the responsibility and duty that marriage bestows upon us: to be filial to parents above, teach children below, respect and love one another, ce trust and encouragement in each other, understand and amodate, share weep and joy, cherish for a lifetime! From now on, whether in good or bad circumstances, in riches or poverty, in health or illness, in youth or old age, we sail the same boat, sharing bitterness and sweetness, till death do us part as lifelongpanions! We shall abide by today¡¯s vows, as we surely can abide by today¡¯s vows."


    What they recited wasn''t themonly known wedding vows.


    Xiao Jun had deliberated for a long time before solemnly selecting the wedding oath recited when obtaining a marriage certificate.


    Even though they couldn''t get registered yet, it felt as if they''d gotten their license this way.


    The wedding ended, but Xiao Jun didn''t rest with Ding Sha. After showering and changing, they secretly snuck out to drive somewhere under night''s veil.


    Xiao Jun had brought her to the only mountain in Nanjiang City.


    The sparse vegetation at the peak revealed a vast sky, stars studding the horizons beautifully.


    The two of them sat atop the car whispering sweet nothings.


    Leaning on his shoulder, Ding Sha asked "Will we be together forever?"


    "We will."


    "Will you love me forever?"


    "I will."


    "Would you abandon me and our son?"


    "I would not."


    "Which preschool do you think would be best for our son?"


    "....I don''t know."


    Xiao Jun said helplessly, "Isn''t it a bit early to be looking at preschools?"


    "It doesn''t hurt to n ahead." Ding Sha didn''t really want to enroll their son yet either, just blurting it out randomly.


    "What do you think our son will grow up to be like? More like you or more like me?" Xiao Jun suddenly asked.


    Ding Sha fell silent for a bit. She obviously knew what the original male lead was like.


    "He''ll be great: sunny and cheerful. He''ll love yummy food and poking around the kitchen too. He''ll love skateboarding and basketball, with lots of good friends. A huge gang will follow him around ying every day. He''ll definitely grow up handsome, popr with all the girls. As for his personality, a bit mischievous, a bit quiet, like you and like me too."


    But Ding Sha believed Little Ping An would not turn out that way. Her little one would not grow up lonely and encounter life''s bitter hardships alone, but rather be surrounded by love and warmth.


    He would surely be a sunny and cheerful boy.


    "Yes, he surely will." Xiao Jun held Ding Sha tightly, speaking with conviction.


    At the end of July, Ding Sha and Xiao Jun finally stepped into the civil affairs bureau and obtained two brand new red booklets.


    They recited the marriage oath once more.


    Resolute and blissful.


    The sunshine was just right, breeze not scorching.

 Chapter 68: The Story of Su Li

    <h4>Chapter 68</h4>


    The night was very dark and quiet.


    Su Liy on the soft and spacious bed, unable to fall asleep.


    He couldn''t remember how many times he had suffered from insomnia.


    He tilted his head to look at the moon outside the window. It was very beautiful, big and round. He heard it was Mid-Autumn Festival today.


    He wondered what mooncakes tasted like.


    With random thoughts running through his mind, Su Li nced at his watch. It was three thirty.


    Hey still on his back, staring at the ceiling, spacing out until dawn.


    His secretary Zhou Yao arrived very early, bringing breakfast. When he opened the door and entered, Su Li had already gotten out of bed.


    Zhou Yao went through the schedule for the day ording to the timetable. It was packed full.


    After finishing, Zhou Yao hesitated for a moment. "Boss, Miss Li called me yesterday. She said...she hopes you can invest to help her family''spany."


    "She said that as long as you are willing to invest, she will marry you."


    Su Li was very calm.


    He ate the shrimp dumplings without saying anything, carefully savoring them.


    Zhou Yao waited for a moment, biting his lips. "Boss, I think Miss Li is quite pitiful. She cried very sadly on the phone. Her family''spany is indeed about to go bankrupt. You..."


    "So my money would just be thrown down a well if I sent it over?" Su Li said. "I believe you know better than me whether her family''spany is worth saving and has value."


    "Not only do I have to give away money for no reason, and then have to watch her reluctantly marry me as if I had coerced her, while she still longs for the man she loves in her heart?"


    "Zhou Yao, I''m not that much of a masochist yet."


    Su Li looked at him coldly. "I hope this is thest time."


    Zhou Yao lowered his head, somewhat ashamed.


    He had witnessed with his own eyes how Li Qingqing had treated the boss in the past, taking advantage of the boss''s feelings and almost causing his death. He was not unaware.


    Zhou Yao felt somewhat confused. Why did he suddenly feel a little reluctant to refuse when he heard the sadness in Li Qingqing''s voice yesterday?


    Even though he had always detested her.


    Su Li paid no more attention to Zhou Yao''s distracted state. After breakfast, he headed to thepany.


    The business affairs that had umted in a day were numerous and chaotic. At noon, he still had to go to eat with the boss of a partnerpany.


    The boss looked mild-mannered, but his words were subtly demeaning Su Li''s background all the time.


    Su Li remained calm and amiable until the boss grew more and more smug and mentioned his parents. Only then did he pick up a napkin to wipe his mouth and said, "Mr. Zheng, I will have someone deliver the termination of our contract agreement to yourpany within three days."


    The boss was stunned for a moment and his face darkened. "President Su, one can casually eat food, but cannot casually say words. Please think thrice."


    "Xiangxing is very remarkable, but we oldpanies are not to be trifled with either. This kind of disrespect for your elders is not good behavior."


    "I think we have no need to cooperate. Although our Xiangxing does not have the history and seniority of your Zhenda, we can still afford a bit of penalty fee. We will alsounch new software and games afterwards. I personally think they are quite good. Please feel free to download and take a look when you have the time."


    After saying that, he got up and left with Zhou Yao, ignoring the boss who was angrily throwing things around in the private room.


    Zhou Yao knew his parents had always been a taboo that Su Li found hard to talk about, so he did not try to persuade him otherwise.


    Su Li sat in the backseat of the car with his eyes closed. He did not specify where to go, so Zhou Yao quietly waited for him.


    After a long while, Su Li said in a low voice, "I had a dream."


    Feeling vaguely noisy around him, Su Li frowned, wanting to open his eyes to take a look, but he only felt his eyes were heavy.


    As he struggled, he fell back asleep.


    Not long after, someone gently woke him up.


    "Little Ping''an, little darling~"


    Su Li slowly opened his eyes to see a familiar and gentle middle-aged woman softly patting his arm above him.


    Su Li gave a start, just about to ask who she was, when he got picked up.


    "Is our Ping''an awake?" Auntie Zhao carried him as she slowly paced around the room, "Hungry?"


    Su Li silently looked at his own short and chubby little body.


    Am I dreaming?


    It must be.


    Yet he did not struggle. His first reaction was, if he was still a child, if he had not been sent to an orphanage yet, could he then see...


    Just as he thought this, he saw the door open.


    A beautiful woman with waist-length hair walked in. Seeing him, she smiled, eyes curving, and pped her hands as she came over.


    "Little Ping''an is awake! Did you sleep well? Are you hungry? Come, let mother hug you."


    Mother...


    Su Li felt somewhat bewildered. His body unconsciously lifted his arms.


    The body''s subconscious cannot lie. He was very close to this woman.


    Su Liy on the woman''s shoulder, hugging her neck tightly.


    It''s mother...


    He opened his mouth but no sound came out.


    The woman lifted the curtain and walked into the kitchen. Two men were standing shoulder to shoulder with their backs facing them in the kitchen. The woman headed straight for a broad and sturdy back. "Jun."


    Su Li heard it. He turned to stare at the man, who had a resolute and handsome face, simr to Su Li''s face in adulthood by seventy percent.


    The man wiped his sweat. He had been cutting stuff. Seeing his wife and childe over, he went to wash his hands before carrying over his son.


    "Good son, miss daddy?"


    Unlike the soft and warm embrace of the woman, the man''s arms were a little bony, but still gave a great sense of security.


    Su Li hugged the man tightly again.


    Even if it was a dream, he still wanted to stay a little longer.


    He spent the whole day in the arms of the man and woman, reluctant to let go of their necks.


    Until nighttime, as the woman coaxed him to sleep, his child''s body could not persist too long. He soon fell into deep slumber.


    His fingers were still clutching the woman''s sleeve, hoping he could still be by her side when he woke up again.


    But when he woke up, there was only the pitch dark night again.


    The big, empty house was quiet again with no one around.


    Not lively at all,pletely devoid of human presence.


    Su Li was immersed in such a sense of loss upon waking up that he could not pull himself out of it.


    That dream had felt too real. It really made him believe he was that child called Little Ping''an, with parents who loved him.


    Su Li leaned against the backseat thinking of that dream. Whenever he rested, he would not be able to stop himself from thinking of that dream. That huge sense of loss and confusion put him in low spirits.


    Zhou Yao did not know why he looked so sad and dejected. When asked what he had dreamed about, Su Li just stared nkly without answering.


    Zhou Yao blinked. "Shall we go, Boss?"


    "Let''s go."


    "Where to? Thepany?"


    "No, not going there. Send me home."


    "Home?"


    "Yes, I want to sleep for a bit."

 Chapter 69: The Story of Su Li 02

    <h4>Chapter 69</h4>


    "Boss, there''s an interview." Zhou Yao came in with a file, "It''s an official interview, quite meaningful. Do you want to ept it?"


    "I''ve seen it. The interviewer is Du Reporter, a very famous reporter, upright and gentle, not bad."


    Upon hearing this, Su Li rubbed his temples, "No need, turn it down."


    "Boss, do you have a headache again? Haven''t you been resting well recently?" Zhou Yao asked with concern.


    The boss must have been exhausted recently, often sleeping at home. Zhou Yao was a little worried about his health.


    Staying up with no sleep or rest for thepany before, and now even when thepany was doing well, Su Li still didn''t have much rest time.


    "No, just a little tired." Su Li didn''t want to say more. He hadn''t dreamt of that little courtyard again.


    "Then I''ll contact the TV station to turn down the interview," Zhou Yao said, "It''s a pity. I heard Du Rourou reporter is an excellent reporter. My cousin''s 8-year-old daughter has set her goal to be a reporter when she grows up."


    "Wait! Who did you say?" Su Li was stunned for a moment.


    "Du Reporter." Zhou Yao didn''t understand.


    "What''s her name?" Su Li asked hoarsely.


    "Du Rourou, Rou for soft." Zhou Yao replied.


    "Go... tell them, I agree to the interview." It took Su Li a while to find his voice again.


    Zhou Yao left. Su Li sat in his position, feeling a little confused.


    Du Rourou. He had heard this name before...


    In that small courtyard, the lively and cheerful little girl named Du Rourou was beside "mother".


    He remembered.


    Su Li was distracted all day.


    Zhou Yao was a bit worried, "Boss, why don''t you go home and rest? Leave the follow-up work to me."


    "When is the interview scheduled?" Su Li asked.


    "Next Saturday." Zhou Yao said.


    "Can it be moved to tomorrow?" Su Li asked him.


    "Why the rush?" Zhou Yao scratched his head, "Let memunicate with them."


    After about an hour, Zhou Yao came back sweaty, "Done. Tomorrow afternoon at 3:30, Du Reporter wille to ourpany."


    Su Li feltplicated. "Okay, I''ll give you a raise."


    Seeing Su Li like this, Zhou Yao was very curious indeed, "Boss, you''ve been quite strange these past few days."


    "Is that so?" Su Li smiled faintly, "Just consider me a little curious."


    "Curious about what?" Zhou Yao was curious too.


    "Curious... about magic, or miracles."


    The next afternoon, the reporter arrived on time.


    Su Li was dressed neatly and handsomely as he waited for them in the office.


    Du Rourou walked in, "Mr. Su, I have long admired your name. I''m Du Rourou."


    Seeing the familiar face, Su Li smiled lightly, "Nice to meet you, Du reporter."


    The interview went very smoothly. At the end, Su Li said, "I made reservations at Xin Garden. Du reporter, would you like to have dinner with me?"


    Du Rourou raised her eyebrows.


    Xin Garden was a high-end private kitchen restaurant with membership system. Only members could dine there, and the membership requirements were extremely harsh.


    "Of course." Du Rourou smiled.


    The private meeting had a more rxed atmosphere. Du Rourou''s expression was much more rxed too. "Thank you Mr. Su for your generosity in letting me enjoy this meal."


    Su Li smiled and poured champagne for her. "I have also long admired Ms. Du Reporter. Very impressed."


    "To be honest, I thought you wouldn''t ept the interview. I sent the invitation hoping for long-term contact, but you epted it. I''m surprised." said Du Rourou.


    She was dressed elegantly and decently, with some wrinkles on her face, looking very wise and gentle.


    Su Li just smiled without replying.


    "I heard Ms. Du didn''t study journalism in university?"


    "Yes, I studied editing at Nanyang University. Then in graduate school I got a dual degree. After entering the TV station I became a reporter." said Du Rourou.


    "Then...do you know Wang Wenhao?" Su Li asked again.


    "Who?" Du Rourou looked puzzled, "Sorry, I haven''t heard of him."


    "It''s fine, I was just asking randomly." Su Li smiled and changed the topic.


    The atmosphere throughout the dinner was very harmonious. As they were leaving, Du Rourou eximed, "If my son could be as gentle and sessful as Mr. Su, I''d really burn incense and pray to Buddha."


    "Your son?"


    "Yes. My partner and I marriedte. My son just started college this year. He''s a rascal, always running out to y. I can''t control him at all."


    Su Li didn''t ask further and had the driver send Du Rourou home. As he walked along the road, he kept thinking.


    He wanted to go take a look at Nanyang City.


    Back home, he felt a little tired. He sent Zhou Yao a message to book flight tickets to Nanyang City before slowly closing his eyes.


    He dreamed of that little courtyard again.


    This time he seemed a little older in the dream.


    Su Li sat up from the bed and eagerly pushed open the door.


    There were still many people in the yard. Some were tending to the flowers and nts, some were washing clothes and sweeping the floor, some were chasing and ying.


    Su Li stood at the door, holding onto the doorframe without daring to step forward.


    Xiao Jun came from the living room, saw him at the door in one nce, strode over, and lifted his son onto his shoulders. "Come on, son. Dad will take you skateboarding."


    Su Li froze on the man''s shoulder, not daring to move. He had never experienced this strange feeling before - very high up, but the man''s big hand was supporting him so he wasn''t scared at all.


    With one hand holding his son and the other holding the skateboard, Xiao Jun slid out of the door and glided towards the park.


    The neighbors along the road were all greeting them.


    "Little Xiao, going skateboarding again huh?"


    "Yo, Little Ping''an is going too!"


    "Be careful!"


    The man greeted them with a smile all the way, and would asionally pull Su Li to get him to say a few words too.


    Su Li silently hugged the man''s head tighter.


    Once they arrived at the park, the man greeted his friends and found a t spot to start teaching Su Li. The short body of the child had difficulty bncing. He almost fell several times but the man steadily caught him each time.


    Su Li secretly pressed his lips into a smile.


    After ying for a while, the man clipped him again to walk home.


    As soon as they got home, they were spotted by Ding Sha.


    Ding Sha came over to take the child first, then gave Xiao Jun a kick.


    Xiao Jun grinned at her. "Didn''t let him fall. I caught him every time. Right, son?"


    Su Li immediately nodded heavily.


    Ding Sha red at him. "It''s so hot and you took him out. What if he got heat stroke? Sunburn?"


    Xiao Jun rubbed the back of his head and slipped away.


    Ding Sha carried Su Li to wash up. At first Su Li still felt a little ufortable but then he thought, this is just a dream anyway... And this is mother...


    After washing, Ding Sha carefully applied a bunch of products on him and even put some cmine lotion.


    Su Li sneezed twice. Ding Sha was worried, "Caught a cold? Too hot?"


    Su Li shook his head. "Itchy."


    Ding Sha smiled and poked his nose, pulling him to go to the living room.


    She brought him a bowl of soy milk pudding. "Eat up. You said you wanted to eat this yesterday, didn''t you?"


    Su Li knew this was soy milk pudding. He had wanted to eat it so much when he was little but didn''t have the money to buy it. Later when he grew up, he didn''t want to eat it anymore.


    He carefully scooped a spoonful into his mouth with the spoon.


    Cold and sweet, the red bean paste was chewy.


    He narrowed his eyes. It tasted so good!


    So this was what it tasted like...


    He unconsciously swung his little legs.


    At lunch he ate the meal Ding Sha had personally cooked. Su Li was extremely happy and ate until his stomach was bulging. Ding Sha was a bit worried seeing him eat so much, worried that he would throw up after eating so much.


    Sure enough, in the afternoon while chasing Egg Yolk in the yard, he suddenly threw up all over the ground after running two steps.


    Ding Sha took him to see the doctor. Nothing major, just feeling a little out of sorts.


    Ding Sha was a bit angry. "Xiao Sixian, are you silly? How could you keep eating when you''re already full? Have you forgotten what mother taught you?"


    Su Li mumbled in his heart, mother didn''t teach me...


    But he said, "Tasted good..."


    Ding Sha didn''t know whether tough or cry. "You can eat more next time if it tastes good. You can''t eat yourself into a fatso in one go, understand?"


    "...Understood." Su Li felt a little disappointed.


    Could he still get to eat it again in the future?


    ...


    After returning from the hospital, he had been burying himself in Ding Sha''s shoulder the whole time. Su Li was droopy. Xiao Jun came to check on him several times and was also worried. "I won''t bring him skateboarding anymore."


    Ding Sha stroked the child''s head. "Don''t me you. It''s because he ate too much."


    Xiao Jun still insisted. No way, any slight abnormality from the child could scare him witless.


    Gong Sister-inwpassionately patted his back, ¡°Our little Ping''an, why are you so spiritless? Are you still ufortable?¡±


    Su Li obediently shook his head.


    Ding Sha couldn¡¯t hold him and wanted him to get down, Su Li didn¡¯t let go, ¡°Hold.¡±


    Ding Sha sighed and held him up again, found a ce to sit down, and let the child sit on herp before she breathed a sigh of relief.


    He had eaten very few bites at dinner. Ding Sha carried him back to the room to rest, Su Li pulled her and didn¡¯t let go. Ding Sha coaxed him and sang lubies to him.


    Su Li¡¯s eyelids grew heavier and heavier. He pulled Ding Sha and suddenly wanted to speak, wanting to tell her who he was.


    ¡°Mother... I... I miss mother...¡±


    As soon as the words left his mouth, the little boy had fallen asleep.


    Ding Sha covered his belly for him, adjusted the air conditioner temperature, and kissed his forehead before going out.


    When Su Li opened his eyes, he felt empty.


    A feeling of loss was going to overwhelm him.


    He sat up and took out a cigarette with shaking hands.


    The phone rang twice, it was a message from Zhou Yao.


    He said ¡°Hello boss¡±.


    Su Li picked up the phone and called him.


    Zhou Yao the inte-addicted teenager hadn¡¯t gone to sleep yet, and was startled by the boss''s phone call, ¡°Boss?¡±


    ¡°Do you think I can change my name?¡±


    ¡°......¡±


    ¡°Forget it, just kidding, have the ne tickets been booked?¡±


    ¡°Booked, next Tuesday. We have to work hard these next few days and get everything done early.¡±


    ¡°Ok, thanks for your hard work, go get some rest.¡±


    ¡°Boss!¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    "Are you...not able to sleep?" Zhou Yao asked gingerly.


    Su Li was silent for a moment, "No, I...I just had a dream."


    "I dreamed of mom and dad."


    Su Li said before he could ask.


    Zhou Yao felt some heartache for his boss. The boss had always been an outstanding person, but was often looked down upon or even ridiculed because his parents were unknown.


    His parents had almost be the boss''s obsession.


    "Then..." Zhou Yao wanted to ask what the parents in the dream were like.


    "Go to sleep, there¡¯s still work tomorrow." Su Li said.


    "I...want to go to Nanjiang City sooner."

 Chapter 70: Su Li 03

    <h4>Chapter 70</h4>


    The nended smoothly, and the early autumn in Nanjiang City was still hot. Zhou Yao looked at Su Li next to him worriedly, who had been absent-minded ever since he got on the ne.


    "Boss?"


    "We''ve arrived? Let''s go." Su Li quickly regained hisposure.


    ording to the fuzzy memories from his dream, he found the old street. The old street had been renovated several times and looked different from his memories, but when he looked closely, he could still find some familiar scenes.


    Zhou Yao watched as Su Li''s hand brushed over the bamboo fences, as if he was cherishing something.


    "Boss, were you from Nanjiang City before?" Zhou Yao couldn''t help asking.


    "Probably," Su Li said with a smile. He didn''t hide the feeling of joy bursting out of every pore. It really felt likeing home.


    He bought Zhou Yao a milk tea at the street corner, then walked slowly along the street until that familiar yet unfamiliar little shop.


    It was covered in dust.


    There was no hustle and bustle, no customersing in and out.


    There were no wooden signboards or wooden sliding doors either.


    There were no lush flower beds at the door or small ckboards writing today''s specials.


    There was no smiling mother who always stood at the door.


    Su Li stared at this ce for a long time. He felt this dusty and dpidated look was really unsuitable.


    "Yao, go ask the owner of this house if he is willing to sell the house to me." Su Li said.


    Although Zhou Yao was very puzzled, he still agreed and went to the neighbor''s house to ask for the contact information of the owner.


    Soon he came back, "The owner is an elderly couple, but they have passed away already. Their children have settled overseas. I have emailed them."


    "Um." Su Li stood at the door and looked at it for a long time. "Let''s find a house to stay in Nanjiang City, and then find a carpenter."


    "Boss, how long do you n to stay in Nanjiang?" Zhou Yao was taken aback. He thought Su Li was only here to take a look. He didn''t expect that Su Li was going to stay.


    "I don''t know. I should be here for the near future." Su Li said, "And there are some other things that I want you to help me find out as soon as possible."


    Zhou Yao was puzzled, but he didn''t dare to persuade Su Li and could only go to get things done.


    Su Li sat in the back seat and slowly closed his eyes. When he woke up, he felt refreshed. He hadn''t had such a good sleep in a long time.


    Zhou Yao had already parked the car in the hotel parking lot and was just waiting for him to wake up.


    "Boss, you''re awake?" Zhou Yao was organizing the handover of follow-up work. After all, if Su Li was going to stay in Nanjiang City long-term, many tasks needed to be transferred over to proceed smoothly.


    "I booked dinner at the hotel. Shall we go upstairs?"


    "No, let''s go to Wang''s Restaurant." Su Li fumbled with his phone for a while.


    Zhou Yao opened the navigation. Fortunately, it was not too far, less than half an hourter, they arrived.


    There were many people at Wang''s Restaurant. The weingdy at the door politely told them that they might have to wait for a while.


    Su Li didn''t mind. He sat in the waiting area.


    While they were waiting, he saw a rugged-looking but depressed man in slippers shuffling over slowly.


    The weingdy whispered for a while. One left and soon an old man with a square face came out.


    "Dad." The man still spoke slowly.


    "You still know toe over?" The square-faced old man frowned.


    The man looked up at him. "I''ve bought the tickets. I''m leaving tonight. I won''t work at home anymore."


    "Bastard! Where do you still want to go!" The old man was furious. "Have you forgotten how your grandfather died? You are still so stubborn. If you dare to leave today, don''te back to this family again!"


    The man''s hand reaching out to support the old man stopped in midair, then slowly dropped. "Brother Da Wen and Brother Bo Lin are both good people. They will definitely take good care of you. Dad...then I''m leaving..."


    The man left after speaking, without seeing the tears falling down instantly from the old man.


    "Tsk, the old man clearly couldn¡¯t bear to part with his son, yet still had to say those words. And the son didn''t even know how to speak gently." Zhou Yao frowned as he watched.


    Su Li didn''t feel like eating anymore after watching this. He stood up, "I''ll go back first. You can eat by yourself. I¡¯ll reimburse you after you¡¯re done."


    "Boss?" Zhou Yao was surprised.


    Su Li waved his hand. "I''ll walk around by myself for a bit."


    Zhou Yao didn''t chase after him. Su Li had been acting very unusual ever since he arrived in Nanjiang, he didn''t know what Su Li was thinking about either, sometimes smiling and sometimes frowning.


    Since Zhou Yao was Su Li¡¯s college ssmate, he didn''t pry too much and continued to wait happily for a seat. After all, he had checked that Wang''s Restaurant was said to be very tasty.


    He didn''t know where the boss found this restaurant either.


    Su Li walked quietly on the streets. It was very quiet. He felt a sense of safety like returning to the womb, and everything rxed.


    Even when he returned to the hotel, he was still in a soft andfortable state.


    "Su Li, let''s talk." Li Qingqing waited at the door, looking at him as if seeing a lifesaver.


    "I don''t think there''s anything left to talk about." Su Li said, "I''ve made it clear. I don''t want to waste money or marry you."


    "But I''vepromised! What more do you want? Su Li! Don''t go too far!" Li Qingqing felt extremely humiliated.


    "Can''t you understand? I said I hope to never see you again. I don''t want to have any contact with you in the future." Su Li said emotionlessly.


    Li Qingqing was stunned, seemingly not expecting Su Li to say such things.


    Su Li called the hotel front desk and asked security to escort Li Qingqing out.


    Li Qingqing didn''t react until she left. The man who loved her so much and indulged her so much, how could he change suddenly just like that?


    She only regarded him as a brother. She didn''t even love him, was it wrong for her to reject Su Li?


    How could Su Li not help her? Su Li obviously liked her a lot...


    But Su Li would not exin anything more to her.


    Su Li¡¯s good mood for the day had been ruined. He opened a bottle of red wine for himself, didn¡¯t turn on the lights, and sat on the sofa looking at the stars on the horizon.


    Soon, Su Li went to retrieve the graphics tablet he brought with him. He hoped to quickly draw down what he could still remember. Otherwise when he forgets, he really won''t have a way.


    As soon as Zhou Yao returned to his room, he received a message from Su Li: ¡°Nanjiang City Maternal and Child Health Hospital, check if 32 years ago, there was someone called Ding Sha who gave birth to a child there.¡±


    "Okay, Boss." Although he was very curious why the boss was checking someone else''s birth record, the quality of an excellent secretary was not to ask more questions. Zhou Yao replied and then went to wash up and rest.


    Just as hey in bed, Zhou Yao suddenly flipped up from the bed again. 32 years ago...


    Was the boss checking his own birth records?


    Zhou Yao was suddenly wide awake.


    The boss had always been working hard to find his parents. Could he finally have some clues?


    Zhou Yao couldn''t help feeling excited for him.


    Su Li was slowly recalling and drawing. He first sketched lightly to outline a beautiful female portrait - it was Ding Sha''s appearance.


    Looking at the sketch, he slowly began to draw in detail.


    The night was still long, and he could draw on.

 Chapter 71: A Family Portrait of Su Li

    <h4>Chapter 71</h4>


    "Boss, I found it," said Zhou Yao. His work ability was outstanding and he had found the information Su Li wanted in just a few days.


    "Cinnabar... it really is your mother," Zhou Yao had already looked over the information earlier, and now felt somewhat reluctant to say it out loud.


    Su Li took the documents. What met his eyes was an old, faded photo. He didn''t know who took it. She was leaning against a Chinese parasol tree, wearing a goose-yellow skirt. Her belly was very round and she was smiling gently.


    It was that face.


    Su Li suddenly felt his eyes brim with tears.


    It really was that face.


    That was mom.


    Su Li repeatedly caressed the photo, unable to hold back a hint of a smile.


    He had seen her too, spent time with her, acted coquettishly in her arms.


    Zhou Yao stood to the side, somewhat unwilling to read out the information he had found.


    "Did you find out anything else?" Su Li asked.


    "Your aunt really loved you. I found the doctor then in charge of her, Doctor Liu. Doctor Liu said she was always very obedient, carefully asking many questions about how to take good care of the baby. She looked very happy," Zhou Yao said.


    "She really did love me a lot," Su Li said without any hesitation.


    "Additionally, following your aunt''s clues, I also discovered the identity of your father," Zhou Yao turned a page and handed him another photo.


    A youth with scarred eyebrows, skinny and fierce, red at the camera lens. He wore prisoner''s garb and handcuffs.


    "This is from the Nanjiang City Prison. Your father is called Xiao Jun. He was imprisoned for gang-rted crimes and died not long after in a prison fight," Zhou Yao closed his eyes.


    "Investigate," Su Li said without any hesitation.


    His father could not possibly be that kind of person. He was very content staying with mother in a small courtyard. There''s no way he would do something like this.


    "It''s been investigated," Zhou Yao said. "I contacted the officer who originally captured Mr. Xiao. The officer said there were too many dubious points in this case. He had always suspected that Mr. Xiao was taking the fall for someone, but before he could investigate clearly, that prison fight urred."


    "Investigate further, from why he was imprisoned to the truth behind the fight. Find out everything," Su Li said.


    Zhou Yao left.


    Su Li ced the two photos side by side.


    The unruly youth, the gentle and beautiful girl.


    This was his only family portrait.


    The new house was located not far from the skatepark, with a small yard. Very nice.


    Zhou Yao had invited a very skilled carpenter master, said to be the disciple of an old carpenter master. Gentle and honest, and very meticulous with his woodwork.


    The carpenter''s surname was Li. He had thick brows andrge eyes. Su Li showed him the drawings he had made, carefully exining while Li scrutinized them, trying his best to recreate the scene from Su Li''s memories.


    Although Carpenter Li was naive when it came to the ways of the world, he had inspiration when it came to carpentry. After listening for a while, he thumped his chest, "Don''t worry Boss, I will definitely make it like what you want. These aren''t difficult, I just really admire the style and ideas behind it."


    Su Li smiled slightly. "I won''t be stingy with money or time. As long as you can recreate this effect, that''s good enough."


    "No problem. Have you selected a renovation team on your end? I''ll coordinate with their ns on what to work on first."


    Su Li shook his head. "Still looking."


    "If you don''t mind, I can introduce one to you. They do meticulous work. To be honest, your house needs to bepletely redone. Many of the wood nks have rotted," Li Carpenter said.


    "Bring their team lead to meet me another day," Su Li nodded slightly.


    "No problem. Then I''ll get going boss," Li Carpenter happily left.


    Su Li sat in a rocking chair in the yard looking at the sky. He remembered that mother really liked doing this. Father even said that they had moved the rocking chair from the house three times.


    When Zhou Yao returned, he seemed a little worried.


    He made a call to Su Li''s only good friend. "Hello? Wenyu? When are youing back? Boss is scaring me with how he''s acting."


    It was the middle of the night over there. Zhou Wenyu had originally been sleepy but was jolted awake by Zhou Yao''s words. "What''s going on?"


    Zhou Yao told him about Su Li''s recent condition, "The main thing is he''s not sad at all. He would even sit there revealing a reminiscent smile, saying strange things, acting as if he had grown up with his parents before."


    Zhou Yao''s expression turned fearful. "But his mother died in childbirth, and his father had already passed before he was born!"


    "I suspect something might be wrong with him mentally."


    "I''m booking the earliest flight back." Zhou Wenyu said before abruptly hanging up.


    When Zhou Yao returned, it was to give an update.


    "Boss, I found out. Your father went in to take the fall for money. He wanted to back out but the gang members in prison got wind of it and informed the outside. The purpose of that prison fight was to silence him."


    Su Li was not surprised at all. He had guessed this from the start.


    Su Li gripped the small wood carving Li Carpenter had casually gifted him, clenching and rxing. "What about their remains?"


    "All in the public cemetery."


    "Buy a cemetery plot. I want to handle their funeral affairs properly."


    "Alright."


    ...


    On a day with sunny and glorious weather, Su Li went to collect his parents'' ashes from the public cemetery.


    They were even in the same cemetery, one on the left and one on the right, separated by seas of other people''s graves.


    Su Li looked at the tombstones, simple with only their names and years of birth and death.


    He respectfully kneeled and kowtowed three times, hugged his mother''s urn as he went before his father''s tombstone, kowtowing three more times. The urns were both small and he hugged them tightly.


    "Your son has been unfilial, onlying to bring father and mother home after so many years. You must be stricter to me in the next life."


    As Su Li spoke, he found a small, flower-filled slope next to a blossoming tree. Hugging the two urns, he said, "Zhou Yao, take a photo for me."


    "Ah?" Zhou Yao was stunned for a moment.


    "Take a photo for me," Su Li patiently repeated.


    He smiled slightly for the camera.


    It was a family portrait.


    Zhou Yao couldn''t bear to see it. Head lowered, he wiped his tears. "Boss, let''s go. We shouldn''t dy the auspicious timing."


    Su Li gave an "mm" sound and slowly made his way downhill.


    The newly purchased cemetery plot was wide and spacious, surrounded by flowers, grass and trees. As Su Li set the urns down, he silently recited in his heart.


    "I made this ce to mother''s liking. Father, you loved mother so much, you''ll definitely like it too right? If there''s anything unsatisfactory, send me a dream."


    "When I was small, I resented not having parents. But I don''t think that anymore. I know you both loved me very much."


    "I''m doing very well now, and the years have been good too. Don''t worry about me. Be my parents again in the next life, alright?"


    "I miss you both."


    Zhou Yao cried harder than Su Li. Su Li had been smiling the entire time, not shedding a single tear.


    "Why are you crying so hard?" He looked at Zhou Yao with some amusement.


    "I... I''m sad, boss. If you''re sad then cry it out, don''t keep it bottled up," Zhou Yao was a mess of tissues.


    "I''m not sad," Su Li said. "I used to feel sad because I thought they neglected me, abandoned me. But now I know they didn''t wrong me at all. They loved me a lot."


    Su Li sat by the gravestone, leaning against the side with Ding Sha''s name. "The empty space in my heart has been filled."


    "Boss!" Zhou Yao was even more of a wreck. Su Li looked as if he was ready to pass on without any lingering attachments.


    Just then, Su Li''s phone rang. He picked up. "Wenyu? Why the sudden call?"


    "I''m about to board the ne!" Zhou Wenyu said. "Remember toe pick me up!"


    Su Li helplessly nced at Zhou Yao. "Did you call him? Don''t worry, I''m perfectly fine."


    Zhou Wenyu didn''t believe him and insisted on returning.


    Su Li had no choice. "Change your flight to Nanjiang City Airport. I''lle get you."


    Two dayster, Zhou Wenyunded.


    "Come with me to see a psychologist."

 Chapter 72: Another Dream

    <h4>Chapter 72</h4>


    "I know you probably think I''m crazy, but I really feel fine," Su Li said helplessly.


    Zhou Wenyu frowned as he looked over the psychiatrist''s certificate showing a clean bill of health.


    Su Li took him to the small courtyard and slowly told him about himself, about everything that had happened to him.


    Zhou Wenyu listened with furrowed brows at first, then with eyes and mouth wide open in astonishment. Finally he fell silent. "Maybe it''s not a bad thing after all."


    Su Li patted him on the shoulder. "You get me, brother."


    "I wish you all the best," Zhou Wenyu said.


    Zhou Wenyu stayed with him for a week.


    The day Zhou Wenyu left, Su Li found a cat at his front door. The cat was a bit chubby, with ginger fur that truly suited his color.


    Curled up in a trembling ball by the door, he was still just a kitten.


    Su Li picked him up. "Where did youe from, guest?"


    The ginger kitten nuzzled his palm and let out a soft, tender mew.


    "No ce to go? Want toe with me? I definitely won''t let you go hungry." Su Li wrapped him in a scarf and took him to the vet.


    The kitten was very healthy. He was probably just looking for a long-term meal ticket. Su Li bought a pile of things and took him home. As soon as he was put down, the ginger kitten started frolicking all around the house, perfectly at ease.


    Su Li believed what the vet had said, that the cat was looking for a permanent food source.


    Zhou Yao came back holding a stack of documents. "Boss, the boss of Qibing Company is also in Nanjiang. He said he wants to take you out for a meal."


    "You can arrange it," Su Li said in a good mood.


    "I met a weird guy today. Looked totally normal, but the moment he opened his mouth, he sounded like a psycho," Zhou Yaoined.


    "Oh? What happened?" Su Li was a little curious.


    "Some guy waving around a project proposal, saying his studio could research time travel and parallel universe theories and stuff. Total nutjob." Zhou Yao grumbled.


    "No idea where he got his information, but he knew you were here and kept calling me. Raving lunatic. If he keeps this up I''m calling the cops."


    "Find out everything you can about his studio and theories and get me his information," Su Li suddenly said.


    "Boss?" Zhou Yao couldn''t believe his ears. "You can''t actually believe this stuff?"


    "What era is this? You gotta believe in science, boss!" Zhou Yao was on the verge of another meltdown.


    "I told you to do it, so do it," Su Li said. "I want to see everything as soon as possible."


    Zhou Yao took a deep breath and left, hands clutched over his heart.


    In Su Li''s mind, however, a bold and outrageous idea was gradually taking shape, madly making his arm hairs stand on end.


    Two dayster, Zhou Yao reluctantly came in holding a folder. "You really wanna see this crazy stuff?"


    "Give it here." Su Li was eager to the point of impatience.


    Su Li carefully read through all of the man''s guesses and theories. "Set up a meeting. I want to see him."


    The man turned out to be slightly younger than Su Li expected. Like Dr. Akebono, his face held an excited, fanatical smile.


    "Mr. Su, I know you''re a visionary leader. Only someone like you can see the feasibility and monumental significance of my project. With your investment and support for my research, I will surely deliver satisfactory results!"


    "I''ll be direct. I can invest 20 million for starters, and up to 200 million more afterwards." Over his coffee, Su Li went straight to business.


    The man rubbed his hands eagerly. "What are your requirements?"


    "I want to see results for that initial 20 million," Su Li said with a faint smile.


    Two dayster, Dr. Jing''s ount received a 200 million wire transfer.


    Dr. Jing started working day and night.


    Su Li sat in his yard staring nkly at the Chinese parasol tree.


    He didn''t know if this was the right thing to do, or what meaning it held. He just thought that if by some chance it seeded...


    The ginger kitten waddled over unsteadily and jumped into hisp, the hairs by his mouth and whiskers still wet with milk.


    Su Li couldn''t help smiling slightly. He took out a handkerchief and wiped the kitten''s mouth, then went back for ab and nail clipper.


    The weather was so nice. He should give the kitten''s fur abing and trim his nails.


    Su Li happily decided.


    After beingbed all neat and tidy, the clueless ginger kitten was ced belly-up on Su Li''s knee. Su Li held the kitten''s paw and started clipping his nails.


    The kitten yowled twice in protest before being suppressed. Once Su Li finished trimming his nails, he gathered the cat in his arms and gently stroked him. Unnoticed by either, the ginger kitten started purring and nodded off. His two front paws were tucked against his chest.


    Su Li slowly closed his eyes as well.


    He was dreaming again.


    In the dream he had grown up, waking up in ss.


    The teacher frowned at him to answer a question. Unhurried, Su Li stood up, nced at the problem, and stated the answer.


    The teacher''s expression lightened somewhat. "Sit down. If you''re tired, stand up next time, understand?"


    "Understood, teacher." Su Li sat down and opened his book. The first page had a name written on it.


    Xiao Sijin.


    So those were the three characters.


    Su Li carefully copied the name with his pen on paper.


    The end of ss bell rang quickly. An unfamiliar boy came over and slung an arm around his shoulder. "Damn Xiao Sijin, I saw you sleeping but you were still listening to ss? Badass! Teach me, how do you multitask like that?"


    Su Li shook his head. "Natural talent."


    "Whoa! It''s so bright I''m blinded! Oh wait, it''s just you showing o-!" Before the boy could finish teasing, Su Li smiled mildly and said no more.


    After school let out, Su Li hesitated for two steps before someone took his book bag from him.


    He looked up to see a wide-eyed boy pulling him along. "Have a safe trip home."


    The boy didn''t seem to have changed much. He still liked to stare wide-eyed at people like when he was little.


    Su Li gave an "Mm" and took his bag back from Xiao Shitou''s hands. "Let''s go."


    Xiao Shitou looked nkly at his now empty hands for a beat, then reached to take the book bag again. Su Li dodged. "I can carry it myself."


    Xiao Shitou slowly mumbled an "Oh," and trailed after him.


    After two steps Su Li stopped and regarded Xiao Shitou. "You walk in front."


    Xiao Shitou halted and took Su Li''s hand instead. "Together. Going home."


    It was a little odd for two grown boys to hold hands, but after a moment''s thought Su Li didn''t let go. He obediently followed him back to the familiar little shop.


    The shop was still bustling with customers. Su Li carefully observed every corner, determined tomit each detail to memory.


    Ding Sha brought over a te of snacks. "Tired? Hungry? Dinner will be ready soon, this is just something small first."


    Seeing Ding Sha made Su Li''s nose suddenly sting with the urge to cry.


    She had aged a little, gained some wrinkles.


    "I''m going to do homework." Su Li took the te with a murmur and headed to the backyard.


    Finding his room, he sat at his desk in a daze, staring at the te of snacks. Slowly he picked one up and put it in his mouth.


    Very sweet.


    He nkly regarded the te, gazing out the window at the yard until called for dinner.


    At dinner he saw his father.


    Xiao Jun had more charm now, handsome and dignified. Su Li thought to himself that he resembled his grown-up self.


    As he ate, Su Li carefully observed every detail, determined tomit it all to memory.


    "Xiao Shitou is so well-behaved today, how odd," Zhuang Auntie remarked with a smile.


    "Nothing much, just a little tired," Su Li answered.


    When getting ready for bed, Ding Sha came.


    "Were you unhappy today?" Ding Sha asked, concerned.


    "No, I was very happy," Su Li said sincerely.


    "I''ve never been this happy before."


    Ding Sha stroked his head. "Don''t put too much pressure on yourself. Your mom and dad are here."


    "Mm." Su Li smiled and nodded.


    As Ding Sha turned to leave, Su Li called out, "Mom, I love you so much. I love Dad so much too."


    Ding Sha froze for a second, then smiled. "We love you too."


    Lying down, Su Li kept smiling. He thought that even if he never dreamed again, he would have no regrets now.

 Chapter 73: There’s a Girl

    <h4>Chapter 73</h4>


    The rebuilding process of the small courtyard was lengthy and slow. Su Li carefully filled in some details and then gave the new blueprint to Li Carpenter before buying a set of wood carving knives for home practice.


    When not busy, he would open the drawing paper by the window and draw carefully. Sometimes he would pick up the carving knife and practice some wood carving. Although very clumsy, Su Li was always in a good mood.


    After the overall renovation waspleted, Zhou Yao apanied him to the flower and bird market. Su Li bought a bunch of flowers to nt and also learned many tips on managing flowers.


    The small courtyard began to take shape. Su Li stood at the entrance of the yard and squinted his eyes.


    ¡°Very nice. Boss you did well! I always thought you were just an engineering man, didn¡¯t expect you would have decent artistic taste!¡± Zhou Yao marveled.


    Su Li did not exin that this was not his artistic taste but his mother¡¯s.


    ¡°When the flowers bloom next summer, we can also barbecue here,¡± Su Li pointed to a corner he had deliberately left out, ¡°I¡¯ll build a shed there another day.¡±


    Zhou Yao happily said, ¡°Sure, no problem, leave it to me!¡±


    What followed next was the addition of facilities inside the house. Su Li had bought and arranged everything that needed to be ced. It justcked some handmade furniture from Li Carpenter.


    Although he did not intend to open a shop, Su Li still made the lobby look like a restaurant.


    He drew quick sketches of Ding Sha and Xiao Jun on the small ckboard at the door and nted the flowers nicely.


    Zhou Yao breathed a sigh of relief, ¡°Finally it¡¯s done. Boss how do youe up with so many tricks? I just can¡¯t.¡±


    Of course Su Li did not answer.


    After tidying up, Su Li moved into the small courtyard with his luggage.


    Zhou Yao was stunned for a moment. ¡°You really intend to live here?¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you live here too?¡±


    ¡°Forget it, I still prefer hotels more.¡± Zhou Yao shook his head again and again.


    Su Li liked to make himself a cup of coffee, sit by the window and read a book or handle work to get through the day.


    The sunlight was just right here.


    He did not add sugar to the coffee. Su Li was unusually rxed today, sitting on the chair and napping.


    Someone knocked on the door lightly.


    Su Li opened his eyes to see a girl push open the door, ¡°Excuse me...is this a coffee shop?¡±


    ¡°No, this is a private residence.¡± Su Li said.


    ¡°Ah? From the outside I saw tables and chairs inside, I thought it was a coffee shop!¡± The girl said somewhat apologetically.


    ¡°But the painting on your door is really nice, is it you and your girlfriend?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Su Li shook his head, ¡°it¡¯s my parents.¡±


    ¡°Wow, they must be so happy and beautiful!¡± the girl eximed.


    Su Li smiled slightly. He was in a good mood today. He walked over and pushed the door open, ¡°Come on in and sit for a while? Let me make you coffee?¡±


    "How can I trouble you so much..." Although the girl''s mouth was polite, she walked in without hesitation.


    ¡°Wow, it¡¯s even nicer inside! Can I take pictures?¡±


    ¡°Go ahead,¡± Su Li poured her a cup of coffee with extra milk and sugar.


    ¡°So delicious! It¡¯s a pity not to open a coffee shop!¡± The girl¡¯s eyes widened after just one sip.


    ¡°My name is Ran Shanshan, I''m here on vacation,¡± the girl started to introduce herself, ¡°I walked over because it looked so beautiful from outside so I just knocked on the door and came in.¡±


    ¡°You are here on vacation?¡± Su Li was a little curious. Nanjiang was not exactly a tourist city, nor was it famous.


    ¡°Yes, I just like these old streets and alleys. Because I study history and I''m particrly interested in ancient culture,¡± Ran Shanshan said, ¡°I like to travel, pack up and go to the train station, randomly buy a ticket for the next train leaving, and just go wherever.¡±


    Su Li raised his eyebrows slightly, ¡°Isn''t it unsafe for a girl to travel alone?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been learning martial arts since I was young,¡± Ran Shanshan said proudly.


    When Zhou Yao came back, he saw Su Li sending a girl out the door, somewhat surprised.


    ¡°Who is it?¡± After the girl left, he walked over and asked meaningfully.


    ¡°A girl who got lost,¡± Su Li said lightly.


    Zhou Yao wanted to say something else but Su Li shut him up in one sentence, ¡°Go hurry the researchb.¡±


    Zhou Yao grievously added another task to tomorrow¡¯s packed schedule that would exhaust people to death.


    What Su Li didn''t expect was that Ran Shanshan came again the next day.


    "Hey boss?" Ran Shanshan knocked on the ss, then went to the door and popped her head out, "Do you have time to take me sightseeing around Nanjiang?"


    "I''m not very familiar with this area either," Su Li declined, "I just moved here not long ago."


    He thought Ran Shanshan would be disappointed and leave, but unexpectedly, Ran Shanshan''s eyes lit up. ¡°That¡¯s fine too. I can take you around. I''ve been to quite a lot of ces these days!"


    Su Li was startled for a moment by her words. Before he could respond, Ran Shanshan had already run over and pulled him out the door, "Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s go, I¡¯ll treat you to something delicious. Aren¡¯t you bored staying inside all day?"


    Su Li hesitated for a moment before being dragged out by Ran Shanshan.


    Su Li believed that she had been learning martial arts since childhood, because her strength was really big and she was very good at using clever force.


    In just a few moves, the big man Su Li was pulled out the door by her.


    "Let''s go, let''s go! I''ll take you to Yukou Street. You must not have been there! There''s a ce with delicious crispy pork!"


    Su Li followed Ran Shanshan around the city all day. By the end he was a little tired but Ran Shanshan was still excited and said she wanted to go eat wontons at another ce.


    Were all girls so terrifying?


    Su Li shook his head.


    It took great effort to finally get back home. Zhou Yao was sitting at the door with his face in his hands. ¡°Where have you been? You know toe back?¡±


    Su Li ignored his grieved look. ¡°I¡¯m very tired. If you have anything to say, just say it.¡±


    ¡°That Ph.D. said there''s progress. Unidentified signal fluctuations were detected, possibly spacetime fluctuations.¡± Zhou Yao¡¯s voice dragged on. He still felt that this was a scam.


    Su Li didn¡¯t stop walking. ¡°Have him confirm it. After confirmation, give him another 2 billion yuan to continue research.¡±


    ¡°Tsk, tsk tsk......¡± Zhou Yao knew he was in a bad mood and didn¡¯t bother him anymore. But he felt he had witnessed the terrifying nature of human beings firsthand.


    From then on, every day at around 10 am, Ran Shanshan woulde and knock on Su Li¡¯s window, then drag him all over the city to eat everywhere.


    At first Su Li was a little annoyed, butter he slowly began to look forward to it every day, looking forward to Ran Shanshan''s arrival.


    Ran Shanshan didn''te to drag him out every day either. Yesterday they might have gone out to the suburbs to eat at a farm house restaurant, and today she would apany Su Li to tend to the flowers and nts, help him arrange the furniture sent by Li Carpenter.


    "It''s so beautiful here," Ran Shanshan sat on the swing, "I love it here so much!"


    "It was designed by my mother," Su Li said, stroking the little orange cat''s head.


    ¡°Wow! She must be amazing then! She must be especially gentle?" Ran Shanshan eximed.


    "She is very gentle, as if she never gets angry, always smiling gracefully." Su Li said.


    "How nice, not like my mom, who res at me every day ready to hit me, like a tigress," Ran Shanshan stuck out her tongue a little mischievously.


    Ran Shanshan would also work here sometimes. She was a travel blogger who regrly shared her videos on public tforms.


    Ran Shanshan sat editing videos while Su Li handled work. asionally he would get up to pour coffee for both Ran Shanshan and himself.


    Su Li vaguely felt that he was touching the calm and happiness that his parents, whom he had never met, had yearned for through the passage of time.


    Ran Shanshan apanied him like this for two months.


    "I''m leaving."

 Chapter 74: Experiment

    <h4>Chapter 74</h4>


    Ran Shanshan''s work meant that she couldn''t stay in one city for too long, so Su Li didn''t keep her there.


    Before getting on the ne, Ran Shanshan said regretfully, "I wanted to invite you to travel together."


    "The videos you helped me shoot were great. My fans all said that I spent a lot to hire a photographer."


    Su Li smiled. "If there''s time for you toe back, I can help you shoot more."


    Ran Shanshan hmm-ed, and both of them fell silent the moment they looked into each other''s eyes.


    The broadcast started announcing the boarding, Ran Shanshan waved at him. "I gotta go, goodbye."


    "Goodbye." Su Li saw her off.


    Ran Shanshan looked back once more, but didn''t say anything.


    Zhou Yao was waiting for him in the car. Seeing hime back, he said, "I thought you would either leave with her or ask her to stay."


    "I''m thirty-two this year, not twenty-two," Su Li fell silent for a bit. "If I were twenty-two..."


    He would have asked her to stay.


    "So what?" Zhou Yao scratched his head. "It doesn''t matter where you are. Just take a ne and you''ll be there in no time. Are you afraid of long distance rtionships?"


    "I do have some feelings for her," Su Li said. "But it''s just some feelings."


    He sounded regretful.


    The feelings were not enough to carry the weight of life, let alone someone like him.


    "Let''s go, to theb," Su Li soon said.


    Zhou Yao nodded and started the car.


    Theb was located in the suburbs. When they went in, someone wearing a white coat came out to greet them. Su Li put on a mask and went inside.


    The professor was obsessively debugging a machine, and didn''t even hear his assistant calling him.


    Su Li sat on a stool and waited until the professor noticed him before asking, "How is it going?"


    "I need a lot of experiments!" The professor had devoted his whole life to the research of time travel. Now with sufficient funding, he finally made some progress and was so excited that he almost fainted.


    "As long as the experiment can prove my machine and theory viable, I will seed!"


    Su Li thought for a moment. "What kind of experiment subject do you need? Animals?"


    "Humans! I want living humans!"


    Zhou Yao was so frightened that he immediately walked over. "Boss! Human experiments are illegal!"


    Su Li nodded, indicating that he understood.


    The professor also heard it. "I won''t hurt them. I just need them to test the machine to see if they can travel through space-time or read memories from different space-times."


    Zhou Yao was still worried. "Forget it, Boss! This is simply impossible!"


    "It will work! Absolutely! I pledge everything I have that it will definitely work!"


    "Then experiment on yourself! If not, let your assistant do it!"


    The assistant immediately backed away reluctantly.


    Zhou Yao seized the opportunity upon seeing that. "You see, even you yourselves are unwilling! You don''t even believe it yourselves!"


    The professor turned around to grab his assistant''s hand. "You do the experiment! Tell him it''s possible! It will work!"


    "Shut up, all of you!" Su Li frowned. "I''ll do it!"


    "No way, Boss!" Zhou Yao shrieked.


    "Will it endanger my life?" Su Li asked the professor.


    "It won''t."


    "Then I''ll do it."


    "Don''t even think about it!" Zhou Yao took out his phone to call the police.


    Su Li stopped him. "I have to do this for a reason. Trust me, I''ll be fine."


    Zhou Yao refused to budge. "Have you been brainwashed by him?!"


    "Then keep mepany. Take me to the hospital immediately if anything goes wrong."


    After a long standoff with neither side willing to give in, this turned out to be the best solution.


    Su Li took off jewelries with metal andy on the machine. The professor outfitted him properly with devices while Zhou Yao stood guard on the side, holding a phone in each hand, both phones prominently disying 110 and 120. He would dial them immediately at the slightest problem.


    Su Li closed his eyes. Strange unknown forces were linking up his brain waves. He felt more and more weary, and lost consciousness shortly after.


    Zhou Yao watched Su Li nervously. The professor also broke out in cold sweat.


    Su Li only saw white fog. He slowly walked forward and saw a catalpa tree.


    Under the tree was a gentle and beautiful woman, gently caressing her belly.


    Su Li couldn''t help but take two steps forward.


    But the woman couldn''t see him.


    After trying for several times, Su Li came to this conclusion.


    He found a ce to sit down and watched the woman stroke her belly while singing some unknown song.


    After sitting for a while, the woman looked a little ufortable. Perhaps she was tired. She struggled to get up with her belly to go back and rest for a bit.


    The frail body carrying such a big belly looked precarious. As she walked, she tripped over a rock and lost bnce, falling to the ground.


    Su Li was so shocked that he stood up, having forgotten she couldn''t see him. He tried in vain to help her up.


    He watched her skirt slowly soaked with blood, flowing more and more. Su Li wanted to find someone to save her, but no one could see or hear him.


    He could only watch helplessly as she bled more and more, her cries for help growing weaker and weaker.


    Finally, when the neighbor came over, the woman had already lost consciousness.


    Su Li gazed at her nkly as she was taken away, tears streaming down his face.


    Zhou Yao watched Su Li who was originally quiet but now shaking more and more violently, the veins on his neck bulging as he screamed in pain.


    "Save...save...!"


    His words came intermittently as he struggled harder and harder.


    "Stop! I told you to stop!" Zhou Yao yelled at the professor.


    The professor was also flurried, hastily operating the machine before saying, "Okay...okay..."


    Like a dying shrimp, Su Li sat up from the seat. He tilted his head to one side, retching incessantly, apparently in great pain.


    While taking off the wires connected to him, Zhou Yao asked him repeatedly, "How do you feel? Are you okay? Should we go to the hospital? Do you want water?"


    Su Li coughed a few times before waving his hand. "I''m fine..."


    "How could you be fine! You struggled so violently!"


    "I saw some things," Su Li stumbled to get up, grabbing the professor''s cor. "What happened? Why couldn''t anyone see me?"


    "Space-time irreversibility. Once changed, the present you, me and even others may change trajectory or directly disappear. Going back to the past also means perishing the present." The professor said.


    Su Li was stunned. "Then...then what''s the point of me doing all this?! Tell me! What''s the point?!"


    Su Li cried andughed, covering his face.


    Zhou Yao rushed over to hug him. "Let''s not do this anymore! Let''s not do this! You still have me, Wen Yu! And...and thepany! And Miss Ran!"


    Zhou Yao babbled incoherently. Su Li sat there dejectedly. "The past is irreversible. What if it wasn''t my past..."


    "Huh?" The professor was puzzled.


    "Not my past... not..." Su Li suddenly recalled something. He pulled the professor into the adjacent office.


    Zhou Yao was a beat slower. Anxiously banging on the door outside, he shouted, "Boss! Su Li!"


    Inside the office, Su Li told the professor about his dream and the reality he found in the dream.


    The professor paced excitedly for twops. "Parallel worlds! This must be parallel worlds!"


    "The history of parallel worlds can be changed! As long as she gets through the difficultbor, everything can change!"


    Su Li only asked him, "How much more money do you need?"


    "Let me make some improvements..." The professor was no longer listening.


    Su Li opened the door. Zhou Yao who was about to lose all hope crashed inside. He held onto Su Li tightly, refusing to let go.


    "Let''s go home," Su Li said.


    Zhou Yao was worried about him. That night, heid out his bedding on the floor of Su Li''s room.


    Su Li opened his phone and saw Ran Shanshan''stest post.


    It was a picture of an adorable carved pony. The caption contained only three words.


    "Like it."

 Chapter 75: The End

    <h4>Chapter 75</h4>


    Zhou Yao was scared to death by Su Li. For several days in a row he didn''t dare leave Su Li''s side, following Su Li everywhere, almost calling Zhou Wenyu back from the United States.


    Su Li really didn''t have the energy to protest, so he let Zhou Yao be. He sat back in the rocking chair, gazing up at the sky, lost in thought.


    He wasn''t actually that desperate anymore.


    After so many years, looking back on his past life, whether bitter or sweet, he didn''t have too strong of an impression anymore.


    The wounds he had suffered, the taunts he had heard, he had actually forgotten most of them.


    Always appearing very concerned about it all was just because he had been too stubborn, stubbornly remembering the feelings at the time, the indignation and unwillingness, the grievances and distress.


    Su Li took a sip of tea, resting his hand under his head, and softly humming that little tune.


    Zhou Yao was in the room processing documents. His window looked right out onto the small courtyard. Every now and then he would lift his head anxiously to check on Su Li.


    After lying there for a while, Su Li stood up. "I''m going to the cemetery."


    "I''ll go with you!" Zhou Yao practically jumped up right away.


    "Aren''t you busy?" Su Li looked at the documents piled high on his desk.


    "Not busy!" Zhou Yao turned off hisputer and walked over to stand in front of him, looking a bit nervous.


    "Then let''s go." Su Li didn''t reject him.


    The cemetery was very peaceful, with hardly anyone there. Su Li bought two bouquets of fresh flowers and ced them in front of the tombstone.


    As he used his hand to clear away the fallen leaves, he said to Zhou Yao:


    "I''m going to talk to them for a bit, it might take a while, you can wander around yourself first. I''ll call you when I''m ready to leave."


    Zhou Yao nodded, walked some distance away, but didn''t dare go too far. He found a bench and sat down, watching Su Li from afar.


    Su Li was silent for a long time.


    "I...really wish I could change history."


    "Does that sound too fantastical?"


    "I don''t know why I dreamed about you all, and I don''t know what I should do after dreaming about you either. I feel like no matter what I do, nothing is right, and not doing anything also feels wrong, so I chose to ept this seemingly absurd research."


    "I feel like if you knew, you would definitely scold me, right?"


    Su Li said with augh.


    "I think, just let him continue the research, no matter how long it takes. Let this be something I have to look forward to for the rest of my life. Thinking that I have a chance to help the three of us in another world, I feel really great about it."


    "I''m still not bad enough. If I could make up my mind to let the professor continue the research unscrupulously, insisting on changing things, that would be good."


    "But I saw many people, Aunt Ruoruo, Zhou Yao, Wenyu, Shanshan, and many others, they are all living very well. I''m afraid I would disrupt their lives."


    "The professor said people are the most unpredictable. In the blink of an eye they may make different choices, and different choices lead to different futures. This means that if we start over again, it''s possible they would not be the way they are now."


    "I really don''t want to bring misfortune to those who should be happy because of me."


    "Would you forgive me for not being able to save you?"


    "I will try my best to reconcile with myself. I''m about to turn 33, not a child anymore. Although I didn''t get to grow up by your side, truly, thank you for giving me a chance to meet you all."


    "Dad, Mom, I love you."


    Su Li slowly began to tell them about things from when he was little to when he grew up, being rewarded with delicious food for his outstanding grades, crying over delicious food being snatched away, being mocked for crying...


    From time to time he wouldugh too, marveling that he really had such silly moments.


    Zhou Yao sat on the bench, eyes glued to him, watching his frowning andughing, feeling extremely anxious.


    Su Li stayed in the cemetery untilte afternoon when it was almost dark. On the way home, Su Li said he wanted to go to Wang''s Restaurant for dinner.


    The restaurant didn''t have many customers today. After they entered, Su Li ordered dishes that he had seen on the wall in the small shop.


    The dishes came very quickly. Su Li slowly savored them¡ªthe taste was pretty good, but it also seemed to be missing something.


    When they left the restaurant, Su Li suddenly asked, "Is there a bookstore nearby?"


    "Bookstore?" Although puzzled, Zhou Yao still drove to a bookstore.


    Su Li went inside and found the cookbook section, carefully selecting several books.


    Zhou Yao nkly watched him do all this.


    Back home, Su Li called Zhou Yao over. "I''m nning to hire you as thepany''s professional business manager."


    "Huh?" Zhou Yao reflexively started feeling nervous again.


    "I''m thinking of learning how to cook, learning wood carving, I also want to learn skateboarding. I probably won''t have too much energy to manage thepany''s affairs anymore." Su Li slowly said.


    "In the future I might also...travel, so, I''ll have to trouble you, Zhou Yao."


    Zhou Yao blinked, reacting slowly to the meaning behind Su Li''s words.


    "Okay... Okay!" Zhou Yao solemnly said, "I will definitely manage thepany well, bing the boss''s cash machine for learning all kinds of skills!"


    Su Li was speechless for a moment. "Go get some rest, you''ve had it hard these past few days."


    Zhou Yao happily left.


    But Su Li didn''t sleep. He opened a video tutorial on making picture frames, turned on the deskmp, and only put down what was in his hands to go to bed when he started feeling drowsy.


    Time slowly passed, autumn gone and wintere.


    Su Li''s 33rd birthday was ordinary and unremarkable. Zhou Yao really wanted to celebrate it grandly, but unfortunately Su Li didn''t want that.


    The cold of winter made Su Li ce another order with Carpenter Li for arge wardrobe.


    He bought many thick and warm clothes and cooked hot pot at home with the heater on.


    Sukiyaki hot pot, spicy hot pot, sour soup hot pot, Chaozhou beef hot pot...


    After a whole winter, Su Li himself was fine, but Zhou Yao had be round as a ball.


    Theboratory was still researching without much development, and Su Li would regrly transfer some money into their ount.


    During the new year holiday, Zhou Wenyu charged into the courtyard, wind swirling about him.


    "I sold mypany in the US, I''m back to work for you. Zhou Yao cries every day that he can''t handle everything," Zhou Wenyu took off his coat.


    "I heard you''re living a nice little life here. I''m back to improve my situation too."


    To wee Zhou Wenyu, Su Li cooked hot pot again.


    Zhou Yao ate with oil dripping down his chin as he poured Zhou Wenyu beer.


    The two drunks eventuallyy snoring loudly on the carpet.


    Fortunately the indoor temperature was high. Su Li threw a nket over each and didn''t bother them.


    Zhou Wenyu moved into the small courtyard. Every day he would cry out about how delicious Su Li''s cooking was. Then he immediately ordered the Complete Cookbook Collection online as a gift for Su Li.


    When the spring breeze had warmed the treetops and it was time to change into spring clothes, Su Li opened the door to see a smiling girl.


    Ran Shanshan stood at the courtyard gate with her suitcase in hand.


    "Hey, want to travel together?"


    Su Li suddenlyughed.


    "Yes."


    Ran Shanshan was startled.


    "I meant, together to travel."


    Su Li nodded. "I said okay."


    Ran Shanshanughed again.


    And so the spring breeze slowly turned the branches green.


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