Chapter 73

The date for Xin Yunmao's visit was set for a weekend, as both parties needed time to prepare for the meeting over a meal at home.

At the Huaijiang Bureau, cicadas were chirping incessantly in the trees outside. Unless the windows were tightly shut, warm air would permeate the office. Fortunately, the air conditioning inside was sufficient. Due to the scorching summer heat, the Economic Development Department kept the air conditioning running even during lunch breaks, otherwise returning to work after meals would be unbearably hot.

Despite this, there was still an anxious spirit, seemingly being roasted back and forth by the blazing sun.

Jin Yu and Chen Zhuhui went to the cafeteria to find Niu Shi and tinker with the newly purchased ice cream machine. Since the bureau's funding had become abundant, the cafeteria had added various peculiar equipment, from various ovens to beverage and coffee machines, making the daily menu increasingly diverse, even featuring baked goods.

Only Chu Zhishui and Xin Yunmao remained in the office, and she had been hearing the tapping sound from behind for quite some time.

Xin Yunmao's fingers drummed on the desk, repeatedly and arrhythmically, tapping away at nothing in particular. He had been distracted these past few days, often falling into long periods of silence, and hadn't even gone out to bask in the sun at noon, either due to the heat or his mood.

"Don't be so nervous, it's not a big deal, just a meal," Chu Zhishui finally couldn't sit still after hearing the sound. She got up and walked to his side, patting his head soothingly, "My Lord, relax a bit."

Hearing this, Xin Yunmao stopped tapping the desk and leaned back instead, half-closing his eyes as he said softly, "I am relaxed."

Chu Zhishui noticed his tense jawline and couldn't help but reach out to squeeze his face, manually helping him relax while comforting him, "It's fine even if things go wrong. From what I understand, there's nothing they won't accept." S~eaʀᴄh the Nôvel(F)ire.ηet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

Chu Xiaohe had already elevated this to the level of eternal friendship between humans and spirits - probably as long as there was no anti-human sentiment, he would readily accept whatever Xin Yunmao had to say.

"What are you talking about?" Xin Yunmao glanced up at her, looking down his nose as he spoke, "I'm not like those incompetent spirits. Even without spiritual energy, I won't mess things up. Don't treat me like a fool."

"Oh dear, looks like your nervousness won't be relieved anytime soon," Chu Zhishui sighed, "This stubborn attitude is just like your first time on an airplane."

If Xin Yunmao truly wasn't nervous, he would probably be whining about being nervous and needing her comfort and hugs. But now that he was putting on this dignified and dominant facade, it definitely meant he was overwhelmed with anxiety and trying to mask it with this appearance.

When nervous, he was proud; when relaxed, he was coy; and when completely familiar, he was silly.

At home, a similar situation was unfolding with Chu Xiaohe. He had been studying recipes lately, and upon learning of Xin Yunmao's preference for light flavors, planned to showcase his culinary skills by preparing a meal that would demonstrate humanity's long-standing culinary civilization.

When Chu Zhishui learned of this, she helplessly said, "He's a plant spirit, he rarely eats. Just cook normally like we usually do at home."

Xie Yan replied, "Your father says this is about cultural confidence. If someone who rarely eats is willing to eat, that's true submission."

"..."

The appointed day finally arrived.

The house had been filled with the aroma of simmering soup all day, with Chu Xiaohe busy in the kitchen - the sound of chopping vegetables could be heard from the living room. The usual dining table had been covered with a tablecloth, and all the cutlery was properly arranged, truly giving it the solemnity of a state banquet.

Time slowly passed, and as dusk fell, soft warm yellow lights came on, and the dining table was filled with fresh and appetizing cold dishes. The hot dishes and soups were still in the kitchen, not yet served, waiting for a while longer.

"Still about forty minutes to go," Xie Yan checked the time, "Has he left yet? I hope there's no traffic."

"There definitely won't be traffic," seeing her parents' restlessness, Chu Zhishui took out her phone, pretending to check in, "I'll ask him."

Chu Xiaohe said, "Yes, yes, yes, why don't you go pick him up, in case he doesn't know the way."

How could he not know the way when he'd been to their building so many times?

Chu Zhishui knew Xin Yunmao wouldn't be late - if he wanted to come, it would only take a second. However, fearing that staying inside would make her parents more anxious and nervous, she pretended to go pick him up, planning to take a walk around the community.

In the summer twilight, it was a bit stuffy outside, but fortunately, the evening breeze was cool, unlike the scorching sun during the day that felt like a burning umbrella. Light clouds drifted in the sky, with only a hint of brightness at the horizon, creating a hazy dusk aesthetic.

Unexpectedly, as soon as Chu Zhishui went out, she saw a familiar figure.

Xin Yunmao, dressed in white shirt and black pants, was sitting on a bench under the climbing frame, quietly contemplating something. Dense branches and leaves covered the frame, with several curved vines hanging down, adorned with small flowers, his tall figure partially visible through the thick foliage.

"Why didn't you come up when you arrived?" Chu Zhishui hurried over to find him, "You know exactly which apartment it is."

The summer heat was intense, and sitting outside for a long time must have made him feel hot.

Xin Yunmao looked up at her and said softly, "It's not yet the agreed time."

Chu Zhishui: "You can come up even if it's not time yet. Isn't it boring sitting here?"

"It's not boring," Xin Yunmao's Adam's apple moved slightly as he pressed his lips together and said, "This is preparation time I've set aside for myself."

She asked puzzlingly, "Prepare for what?"

"Prepare to go upstairs," he said seriously, "I need some time."

Seeing his rigid posture, Chu Zhishui couldn't help but laugh, then looked him up and down: "Why are you dressed so nicely today?"

Xin Yunmao was actually wearing a striped white shirt and black pants, even paired with shiny leather shoes, completely looking like a public institution employee. However, with his handsome features and outstanding temperament, this outfit didn't look outdated at all, instead giving off a clear and dignified scholarly air that would appeal to elders with its stability and reliability.

Chu Zhishui pinched his shirt collar and wanted to touch his Adam's apple, but ultimately held back. Undeniably, the white shirt was a classic element - if paired with gold-rimmed glasses, it would be even more classic, making him look like a perfectly proper and elegant bamboo.

Hearing the praise, Xin Yunmao picked up on something else in her words and raised his eyebrows in displeasure: "So I don't look good normally?"

"You look good, always good - fashion success mainly depends on the face," Chu Zhishui knew he was feeling insecure and naturally didn't hold back on compliments, "Reaching new levels of handsome every day."

He curled his lips: "Such sweet talk."

"So are you ready to go up now?" Chu Zhishui took out her phone, "If you're ready, I'll let them know so they can prepare too."

Xin Yunmao asked in a muffled voice: "What time is it now?"

"Still half an hour to go."

"Let's go up then, a bit early is fine," Xin Yunmao confirmed no one was around, then naturally stood up and lifted several bags that appeared out of nowhere, full of gifts.

Chu Zhishui was stunned: "Where did these come from?"

"I asked that bird about some human customs, she's very knowledgeable about these things, and she helped me prepare them, saying these were converted from my previous work benefits," Xin Yunmao said calmly, "I've checked everything, it seems fine, but you can check again."

"If Sister Hong prepared it, it must be fine. This is her specialty, she's in charge of distributing things during holidays too," Chu Zhishui was surprised, "You even consulted Sister Hong specifically?"

No wonder even his dress style had changed, not casual and relaxed like usual, clearly having taken advice.

Xin Yunmao raised an eyebrow: "I told you, even without spiritual energy, I can still manage just fine. It's all about whether I want to or not."

Chu Zhishui held back a smile: "Mm, I can see how much you want to come to my home."

"...Hmph."

After receiving the message, her parents quickly asked them to come up.

At home, Chu Xiaohe and Xie Yan stood at the door, waiting quietly for Chu Zhishui to bring him up.

Chu Xiaohe suddenly remembered something and turned to warn his wife: "Spirits might look different from humans. If his appearance is ordinary, don't make it too obvious - you used to only care about looks."

Xie Yan: "?"

Xie Yan: "You're really getting old. Have you ever seen an unattractive spirit in human form? Even in TV dramas, there are no ugly ones."

"That's TV drama, it's all made up!"

"Didn't she say he's above average? She's usually so cautious with her words, yet she actually..."

At this moment, a gentle knock on the door interrupted Chu Xiaohe and Xie Yan's conversation.

"Coming!" Chu Xiaohe quickly opened the door. He eagerly looked behind Chu Zhishui, initially worried that a supernatural being might not match human aesthetics, but instead saw only a refined and elegant dark-haired man dressed neatly and cleanly.

"This is Xin Yunmao, and these are my parents," Chu Zhishui made the introductions first. Although Xin Yunmao's original name was just Yunmao, his official documents had the "Xin" character, so they were used to calling him by his documented name.

"Ah, hello, hello, I'm Chu Xiaohe, her father," Chu Xiaohe shook hands with Xin Yunmao. "You..."

Xin Yunmao returned the handshake and bowed slightly, "Please, just call me Yunmao."

Xie Yan smiled, "Alright, come in, Yunmao."

After exchanging greetings with both parents, Xin Yunmao brought in the gifts he had brought, going through the inevitable courtesies. Chu Xiaohe and Xie Yan made small talk, and Xin Yunmao responded politely in a soft voice. Though his smiles were few, his manners were clearly impeccable and his etiquette perfect.

If Chu Zhishui hadn't revealed his true identity beforehand, Xin Yunmao appeared no different from humans - in fact, his looks and height were rather outstanding.

Chu Zhishui was now the most confused person present. She had worried about her parents' adjustment or Xin Yunmao's ability to fit in, but now it seemed she didn't need to mediate at all as they naturally took their seats at the dining table.

Chu Xiaohe brought out the prepared dishes one by one, asking Xin Yunmao if he'd like some wine. Not to be outdone, Xie Yan repeatedly used the serving chopsticks to put food on Xin Yunmao's plate, smiling as she watched him eat.

Xin Yunmao ate methodically, actually finishing the food before him, occasionally answering their questions.

Chu Xiaohe laughed heartily, "She said you eat very little, but it seems you were just hungry!"

Xie Yan remarked, "I see Yunmao has quite an appetite."

Xin Yunmao responded, "It's very delicious."

Chu Zhishui couldn't bear to watch anymore. She nudged him with her knee and whispered, "You don't have to force yourself to eat, there are more dishes coming."

He actually had no need for food, though he would occasionally join her for a bite or two - now he was clearly just being polite to her parents. The mighty spirit lord who commanded wind and rain with such pride outside was now showing such humility - it was quite astonishing.

Chu Xiaohe noticed this too and encouraged him, "By the way, save some room - there's a special dish prepared just for you that perfectly matches your identity!"

Xin Yunmao looked confused and turned to Chu Zhishui.

Chu Zhishui asked, "Could it be bamboo rice?"

"How could you say that with Yunmao right here!" Chu Xiaohe thought his daughter's mention of bamboo rice was too cruel and quickly said, "Just wait a moment, I'll bring it out."

A moment later, a white dining bowl appeared containing a flower bud carved from Chinese cabbage heart, looking exquisite and lifelike, truly resembling an unopened lotus bud.

Chu Xiaohe appeared with a pot of superior stock and explained, "This is a famous Chinese dish called 'Boiled Water Cabbage.' I heard you prefer light flavors. When this broth is poured over it, it blooms like a lotus flower - it's absolutely beautiful!"

Chu Xiaohe had planned it well - the dish was deliciously rich in flavor, and its presentation surpassed all other dishes, truly worthy of a state banquet. However, he had forgotten one thing: while flowers indeed suited a plant spirit's identity, they had another meaning for plant beings.

For Xin Yunmao, blooming was equivalent to courtship, and now he sat stunned at the sight of the flower bud on his plate.

Chu Zhishui's expression also changed slightly. She could see his discomfort and awkwardly said, "I'm sorry, I forgot to explain supernatural biology to them."

Of course, she wouldn't point out Chu Xiaohe's mistake now, as it would burden him psychologically - not because she worried about affecting their relationship, but because she feared he might waver in his broader perspective if he knew he had made a diplomatic faux pas at supernatural state banquets. After all, family harmony was one thing, but lasting friendship between humans and supernatural beings was a greater concern.

When the steaming chicken broth was poured over, the flower bud indeed slowly bloomed, its petals translucent, with bright red goji berries adding a splash of color.

Chu Zhishui thought Xin Yunmao wouldn't accept it and didn't need to try it, but unexpectedly, he moved quickly, picked up his spoon, blew on it gently twice, and calmly took a sip.

"How is it?" Chu Xiaohe asked enthusiastically, "This dish has special meaning for us humans."

Boiled Water Cabbage was a diplomatic dish, often served to honored guests and a regular at banquets.

"It's very good," Xin Yunmao saw the expectant look on his face and adopted a solemn expression, nodding and promising, "I understand."

Chu Zhishui saw his serious face and exclaimed, "...What do you understand?"

Chu Xiaohe assumed Xin Yunmao felt their appreciation and waved his hand contentedly, "Good that you understand."

With such a variety of dishes, the meal progressed slowly as they ate and chatted, occasionally watching television, which happened to be showing the news.

On the TV screen, a reporter was introducing new developments in domestic aviation, with various exciting scenes edited together, creating an impressive and awe-inspiring presentation.

Chu Xiaohe saw this as a good opportunity and said, "Yunmao, look at our human inventions. You don't know how remarkable it is that our country has come so far after that period of hardship. You probably don't know about those difficult days back then."

Xin Yunmao replied sincerely, "I indeed don't know about those days. I accidentally fell asleep then."

Chu Xiaohe suddenly felt something was off. "...Fell asleep?"

Xin Yunmao responded, "Yes, when I woke up, the country had already been established. I missed that period."

"???"

Chu Xiaohe froze. He looked over the young-looking Xin Yunmao, then turned to Chu Zhishui: "This..."

Chu Zhishui avoided her father's gaze and said quietly, "Sorry, I forgot to mention some details."

That day, Chu Xiaohe and Xie Yan had been arguing, leaving her no chance to interject, and consequently no opportunity to mention the age factor.

Chu Xiaohe's understanding crumbled as he asked puzzled, "Then how long can you live?"

"It used to be very long, but now it's different," Xin Yunmao glanced at Chu Zhishui, his eyes flickering as he calmly said, "However long she lives, I will live. We will spend our lives together."

His tone was steady and unhurried.

All three family members were struck by his words.

Chu Zhishui bit her lip shyly; even though she had heard him say this once before, she hadn't expected him to tell her parents directly.

Chu Xiaohe had countless confusions swirling in his mind, but as he met Xin Yunmao's composed gaze, his chaotic thoughts suddenly dissipated, leaving him momentarily dazed. The thousands of questions on the tip of his tongue were swallowed back - it seemed that after hearing those words, nothing else mattered.

Xin Yunmao was a supernatural being; he might say many polite things, but he didn't need to make promises about lifespan - even humans wouldn't do that.

After a long while, Chu Xiaohe replied steadily, "That's good then. I was worried that I wouldn't live as long as her mother, and she'd be heartbroken, unable to go on without me."

Xin Yunmao remained composed and actually boasted, "She can't live without me either."

"Well, she's still more independent than her mother - her mother breaks bowls just entering the kitchen. Can't count on her for a hot meal."

"She often makes quite a mess too, and I end up cleaning after her."

They continued exchanging words, seeming to have found kindred spirits in each other.

Chu Zhishui and Xie Yan, being criticized to their faces, wore rather peculiar expressions, unsure what to say.

Xie Yan scoffed, "Your father is really confident, isn't he? Really thinks I can't live without him?"

Chu Zhishui consoled her, "Maybe all males are like that, whether human or supernatural."

The table was really too full of dishes, and Chu Xiaohe, caught up in the conversation, accidentally pressed against the edge of the table, knocking over a plate of mock crab. The porcelain plate shattered on the floor, with food scattered everywhere, creating quite a mess.

Xie Yan seemed to catch his mistake: "See who's breaking dishes now!"

"Oh dear, what a waste, we barely ate any of it," Chu Xiaohe patted his leg and said, "I'll go sweep it up before someone gets cut."

"No need, I'll handle it," Xin Yunmao, used to keeping the house tidy, simply snapped his fingers, and the mess instantly vanished. The broken pieces and food were sorted into the trash bin, and the floor became clean and bright again.

Chu Xiaohe and Xie Yan stared in amazement at this sight, looking at Xin Yunmao in disbelief, now truly comprehending his supernatural identity. No matter how human he appeared, cleaning up mess with just a snap of fingers was clearly not something humans could do.

Xie Yan swallowed and smiled, "...Thank you, Yunmao. You're too kind."

Chu Xiaohe stood up and walked towards the kitchen: "We still have some ingredients left. I'll cook another dish."

"Dad, stop cooking, it's only going to spill if you make too much," Chu Zhishui persuaded. "We can't finish what's already on the table."

"But you love mock crab, and I noticed you haven't eaten much today!"

"...I like many of the dishes on the table."

Hearing this, Xin Yunmao followed Chu Xiaohe into the kitchen.

"Why are you..." Chu Zhishui wanted to stop Xin Yunmao, but saw him enter without looking back.

Xie Yan smiled, "Let them have a private chat."

In the kitchen, Chu Xiaohe put on an apron, and turning to see Xin Yunmao enter, quickly said, "It's fine, Yunmao, go sit outside. This dish won't take long!"

Xin Yunmao looked at the eggs in the bowl and the fish slices placed beside them, carefully memorizing the ingredients on the table. He glanced around, pondered for a few seconds, then said quietly, "I want to learn how to cook."

When Chu Xiaohe mentioned she liked mock crab, Xin Yunmao naturally became curious.

"Cook?" Chu Xiaohe paused, turning on the gas stove. "Sure, she loves this dish. I'll teach you how to make it."

"...Mm."

"The main ingredients are eggs and fish meat. The fish needs to be marinated first, and the seasonings are salt, Shaoxing wine..."

"Mm."

"When stir-frying, toss the wok more and stir less, otherwise the fish will break apart..."

"Mm."

The gas stove burned with a blue flame.

Outside, it had turned completely dark, with only the lights from across the street visible.

In the brightly lit kitchen, the gray-haired father and the black-haired young man stood by the stove, one teaching and one learning. They quickly finished cooking the mock crab, discussing nothing but this single dish that she loved.

Because they both loved the same person, they formed a connection at that moment, understanding each other perfectly without unnecessary words.

Perhaps food, as humanity's enduring civilization, sometimes conveys deeper warmth that even supernatural beings can understand.

Moments later, Chu Xiaohe returned with the mock crab, Xin Yunmao following behind. He waved and said, "You must try this dish, Yunmao helped cook it too."

"Really?" Chu Zhishui glanced at Xin Yunmao skeptically. "That's impossible."

The mock crab looked expertly made - could he really be a culinary genius?

Chu Xiaohe insisted, "Of course it's true. Try it quickly, it's just like how I make it!"

Chu Zhishui took a bite, tasting it with trepidation before praising, "It's really good."

The dish was tender and delicious, cooked perfectly, very much in Chu Xiaohe's style.

Xin Yunmao declared decisively, "I'll cook it again next time."

He had memorized the process and would cook independently next time.

Before they knew it, night had fallen deeply, and it was time for Xin Yunmao to say goodbye. He bid farewell to Chu Xiaohe and Xie Yan one by one, successfully concluding their first meeting.

"Come again sometime, I'll teach you other dishes," Chu Xiaohe noticed his interest in cooking and naturally extended the invitation for another family dinner.

This was exactly what he wanted to hear, and Xin Yunmao immediately nodded: "Alright."

Chu Zhishui said, "I'll see him out."

"Take care on your way!" Xie Yan called out concernedly.

After the front door closed, the human and supernatural being took the elevator down.

In the elevator, Xin Yunmao finally let out a long breath, his whole body visibly relaxing. He crossed his arms casually, watching her with sparkling eyes, looking like he might break into song at any moment.

"Finally done pretending?" Chu Zhishui said amusedly. "Good timing, I think my dad was about to break character too."

The dinner had been quite something, with both Chu Xiaohe and Xin Yunmao being exceptionally polite, human and supernatural being giving their best performances.

"Didn't I tell you? Nothing's too difficult for me," Xin Yunmao lifted his chin proudly.

Chu Zhishui applauded accordingly: "Indeed, your performance today was excellent, my lord, you're truly remarkable."

Xin Yunmao maintaining such proper behavior throughout dinner almost moved her to tears - she'd never seen him act so normal before.

"It's not that remarkable, they were just being accommodating," Xin Yunmao's eyelashes fluttered as he said softly, "They're just extending their love for you to me."

He could tell that Chu Xiaohe and Xie Yan were being very courteous, just as Chu Zhishui had said before - because they deeply loved their daughter, they treated him kindly when he visited.

Aliali: 6748677cc4f3f33ac4783886

Of course, while they started out being polite, the barriers gradually dissolved, and they truly began to accept him.

Chu Zhishui praised him softly: "That's because they were moved by my lord's attitude!"

Xin Yunmao was delighted by her flattery, his tense nerves finally relaxing. Suddenly remembering something, he gave her a peculiar look and said quietly, "But I didn't expect them to be so eager, even specially serving that particular dish."

Honestly, he was startled when he saw the water-boiled cabbage with flowers, though he later understood the parents' intentions. The blooming beautiful lotus, the red wolfberry flower pollen, and their special introduction about the dish's significance to humans. He was certain he hadn't misinterpreted - it was a sign of the parents' eager expectations.

"Eager?" Chu Zhishui was confused. "Which dish are you talking about? The mock crab?"

They had cooked the mock crab quite hurriedly in the kitchen, which could be considered eager.

Xin Yunmao's eyes darted around, and after hesitating for a moment, he seemed to have trouble expressing himself: "They served a dish with flowers, even using wolfberry as pollen... Isn't that a hint? They seem very eager..."

"Huh?"

He held his breath and forced himself to continue: "...Eager for us to pollinate and have children."

"..."