Chapter 1021: Cooking

Translator: Henyee Translations  Editor: Henyee Translations

If only Qi were at home too! Qi would undoubtedly bring back the best game from the mountains and take everyone to the river to catch the plumpest, freshest fish. That would be wonderful!

Regrettably, they had no knowledge of which military camp Qi was stationed in the northwest. How was he faring? Did he endure hardships? Did he long for home and his loved ones?

The uncertainty of his return weighed on their minds.

Despite missing him dearly, they were all mature individuals who understood that while Qi served in the army, Shao Yunduan was flourishing with the a.s.sistance of the Xie Family. Qi himself was capable and resourceful, so they refrained from dampening the festive atmosphere with worries. They continued to chat and laugh, cherishing the joyous occasion.

The fish and prawns in the Zhang Village pond were plump and abundant, prompting Qiao Xuan to have someone catch numerous prawns, a turtle, and two fish. In the evening, she would prepare crispy shrimp b.a.l.l.s, braised chicken nuggets, clear soup fish b.a.l.l.s, betel taro pork, sweet-skinned duck, crispy chicken, mutton soup, tofu, sour soup, stir-fried bamboo shoots, garlic lettuce, and silky yams.

As the dishes took shape, the three stoves simultaneously burst into action. The kitchen emitted waves of tantalizing aromas that awakened everyone’s appet.i.te.

During dinner, delectable dishes adorned the table. Everyone gathered happily, engaging in conversation while savoring the flavorsome feast. Their taste buds were captivated.

“Finally, Fifth Sister-in-law’s culinary skills!”

“Fifth Sister-in-law is an exceptional cook. No matter how hard we try, we can’t match her!”

“It’s incredibly delicious! Truly mouthwatering!”

Qiao Xuan was also delighted, sporting a smile. “Now that I’m back, I’ll cook more often, and our ingredients will always be readily available! I’ll visit regularly!”

She had so much to attend to—how could she possibly leave?

Without the a.s.sistance of her extraordinary abilities, it would be inconceivable!

Upon hearing Qiao Xuan’s declaration, Yang Xiaoni and the others were filled with joy and eagerly inquired if it was true.

Qiao Xuan responded with an affirmative nod and a warm smile, bringing a sense of relief to everyone present.

Shao Yunduan exchanged a glance with Qiao Xuan and chuckled helplessly. He had already discussed this matter with his wife. It was simply impossible for him to return home every year, let alone multiple times throughout the year.

However, Qiao Xuan was concerned about her family and their a.s.sets. If she were to come back, she would make appropriate arrangements along the way.

Antic.i.p.ation filled the air, enhancing the lively atmosphere at the dining table as everyone enjoyed their meal.

With a loving expression, Ms. Fang beamed with joy. They were truly a united family now.

It was the greatest gift of all.

After dinner, the group engaged in pleasant conversation for a while before retiring to their respective rooms for a well-deserved rest.

Qiao Xuan, who had been weary from the recent events, was grateful for the chance to finally get some proper sleep.

In the courtyard, Shao Yunduan stood with his hands behind his back, gazing up at the radiant moon in the night sky. The moon was more than halfway full, casting its gentle glow upon the tranquil surroundings. Moonlight cascaded like flowing water, casting ethereal shadows in the small courtyard.

Amidst the lush green foliage, white gardenias bloomed, emitting a delicate fragrance that permeated the air. As a gentle breeze caressed the area, the scent of the flowers filled Qiao Xuan’s nostrils.

“Admiring the moon here, my love?”

Having finished her bath, Qiao Xuan noticed Shao Yunduan’s absence in their room and found him near the gardenia bush. She approached him with a smile, joining him in his moonlit reverie.