Ye Fei's mind, now like an encyclopedia, made cooking seem effortless. Standing at the stove, he worked skillfully while Xiao Hanyue assisted him, handing him kitchen utensils and ingredients as needed.
As she watched him, deeply focused and serious, Xiao Hanyue couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration. His handsome face, glowing with concentration, made her heart flutter. The man in front of her now occupied a place in her heart that had once been reserved for her late husband.
She found herself filled with contentment and love for him, realizing that Ye Fei was the best gift life had given her.
Thanks to Ye Fei's skilled hands, several mouth-watering dishes were quickly prepared. The aroma alone was enough to tempt anyone, and though Xiao Hanyue had never been one to indulge in food, she couldn't wait to taste these delicious creations.
She was even more touched by Ye Fei's thoughtfulness; he had cooked these dishes to mask the scent left by their earlier passionate encounter, ensuring that her daughter wouldn't suspect anything when they left the kitchen.
As soon as the kitchen door opened, the three girls—Ye Yunqi, Ye Jing, and Lin Ling—were immediately drawn to the enticing smell. Despite not being familiar with the kitchen themselves, they eagerly rushed in and helped carry the dishes to the dining table.
Without wasting time, the girls began eating. Lin Ling took a bite and raised her eyebrows in surprise. "Mom, your cooking wasn't this good before. Are you just extra hungry today?"
Xiao Hanyue smiled and shook her head. "These dishes weren't made by me," she said, casting a glance at Ye Fei. Though she tried to suppress it, a hint of affection and tenderness slipped through her gaze.
After lunch, they all spent some time chatting before it grew dark. It was time for Ye Fei, Ye Yunqi, and Ye Jing to return home. Lin Ling and Xiao Hanyue were reluctant to see them leave, but Lin Ling took comfort in the thought that she would see Ye Fei at school the next day.
Xiao Hanyue, on the other hand, felt a twinge of disappointment, knowing she wouldn't have as many opportunities to be alone with him.
As they were saying their goodbyes, Ye Fei pulled Xiao Hanyue aside and whispered tenderly in her ear, "Don't worry, I'll visit you often. It won't be long before we can be together, always."
Xiao Hanyue smiled sweetly, gently pushing him away. "Go on, Qiqi and the others are waiting for you in the car."
Ye Fei smiled back and left, knowing that she didn't fully believe his words yet. But he intended to surprise her soon enough.
Back at the Ye family courtyard, Ye Fei led the girls inside, only to find Xu Shuyun sitting alone in the living room, lost in thought. She looked lonely, and hadn't even noticed their arrival.
A pang of guilt hit Ye Fei. With Ye Lingtian's recent passing, Xu Shuyun was likely feeling the most isolated. He had taken Ye Jing away for two days, leaving her alone. It must have been hard for her during that time.
Walking over to her, Ye Fei sat down and gently put his arm around her shoulders. "Aunt, don't worry. You still have me, Jingjing, and Qiqi. We'll always be here for you," he said softly.
Xu Shuyun sighed, leaning into Ye Fei's comforting embrace. "Thank you, Xiaoman," she murmured, the loneliness on her face softening as she found some relief in the presence of her nephew.