The Long Road Ahead - Chapter 8

After this incident, things between the two was no longer as awkward as it had been earlier. Well… actually, Shan Haiming was more or less just like he had been as Xiao Ning was the one whose heart had relaxed a bit. All the things which had occurred in the past few days had made his heart feel heavy, but because there was someone there with him, now it all felt a bit lighter. Every now and again, he would say a few words to Shan Haiming. So like this, they had continued watching the television, saying a few words then none, as the afternoon passed them by.

In all honesty, Xiao Ning had no clue how to make any of those dishes. But when he bought the seasonings earlier, he saw there was curry their too. Thinking he could handle that much, he summoned up his courage and gave a nod. “Alright then. But what about the fish?”

That guy really did not seem to care one bit about he did. So while crinkling his brows lightly, Xiao Ning pulled out his phone and plopped it into that guy’s hand then went to busy himself washing the vegetables. When it came to stuff like cooking, Xiao Ning could practically be considered a novice. He knew he had to strip the veggies, and casually went through the motions, but had no idea how much he had to pull off.

“You’re bleeding.” Shan Haiming uttered, causing Xiao Ning to unconsciously turn to face him, and notice him staring at him for a moment, before letting out a “tch” and stating, “Such a slow reaction.”

The kitchen did have pots and pans, but apart from those, the cupboards were bare. By this time, Shan Haiming had already made his way to the door, replying, “We’ll just buy some while we’re there.”

Holding the fish in one hand, and a large bottle of oil in his right, the Second Young Master Shan then announced, “Let’s go home.”

Then in the next, Xiao Ning’s left hand was already pulled towards Shan Haiming, as he lowered his head, capturing Xiao Ning’s finger tip with his lip while the warm softness of his tongue pressed against his wound, moving little by little, as it sucked.

Staring at him curiously, Shan Haiming asked, “That must be your favourite. Do you want to make that one?”

Shan Haiming then looked at his watch, “Isn’t it time to eat?”

Originally, Xiao Ning wanted to say that wasting food wasn’t a great thing to do, but once his eyes fell and took in all the smeared seasonings covering Shan Haiming’s clothes the word dancing on the tip of his tongue changed. “I’m pained because you went through all this trouble for a really long time just now.”

“Oh.” Xiao Ning was never one to feel hungry quickly, so upon realising he said, “Let’s go out to eat then.”

In response to this, Shan Haiming scoffed, countering, “If you can’t cook it properly, then you can’t. Don’t lump me in there with you.”

Shan Haiming looked at him curiously, asking, “Why do you want to go eat out?”

Besides, Xiao Ning had nothing to do that afternoon, and he reckoned if he doesn’t handle Shan Haiming well enough, then tomorrow he’d also have nothing to do either. The new neighbourhood district he currently lived in was a good ways away from civilization, and hasn’t been built that long ago so the necessary supporting facilities have not been adequately established. All there was, was an small unplanned marketplace, one which when Shan Haiming stood in, gave the feeling of him seeming like he didn’t quite match. So while looking at such a scene, Xiao Ning felt as if he could laugh. Shan Haiming was standing next to a fish vendor’s stand, a picky expression on his face while staring at the fish flopping around in a large plastic basin. He then pointed to one of the fish, prompting the vendor to swiftly grab a plastic bag and catch it. Now while using his fingers like a hook to hold the bagged fish in front of him, he inspected it with brows knitted, making one have no idea what he was possibly thinking.

Within the time it took him to be done with the fish, the half filled pot of oil had heated up. While he slid the fish into the oil, Xiao Ning began chopping the potatoes and radishes.

Under these circumstances he had little choice, so Xiao Ning dejectedly took out his phone and searched online for recipes while in the market. Then out of politeness he also asked, “Is there anything else you’d like to eat?”

Shan Haiming thought it over seriously for a while, then replied: “HuangmenjiT/n: braised chicken—with potato. A whole chicken or legs and thighs are chopped then fried/boiled before being caramelised with burnt sugar before being braised with seasonings, mushrooms, potatoes, etc. and soy sauce..”

“How would I know?” Shan Haiming lowered his own hand and spoke while looking at the groceries Xiao Ning was holding. Xiao Ning was left speechless in that moment but then he asked, “But aren’t you going to cook it?”

“Are you also afraid of pain?” Shan Haiming smacked his lips, while giving him a look as if he wanted to smile.

In all honesty, Xiao Ning had no clue how to make any of those dishes. But when he bought the seasonings earlier, he saw there was curry their too. Thinking he could handle that much, he summoned up his courage and gave a nod. “Alright then. But what about the fish?”

Xiao Ning pursed his lips, replying, “Because only the leftovers I brought back from lunch are in the fridge.”

Having been stunned by the act for a few seconds, Xiao Ning soon abruptly withdrew his hand.

Shan Haiming looked at him curiously, asking, “Why do you want to go eat out?”

Having been stunned by the act for a few seconds, Xiao Ning soon abruptly withdrew his hand.

N/A

What on earth have chickens ever done to you? Were you a weasel in your last life of something?

Xiao Ning pursed his lips, replying, “Because only the leftovers I brought back from lunch are in the fridge.”

“What are you doing?” Xiao Ning who had finally regained his senses cried out to stop him.

“You don’t have any groceries in there?” Shan Haiming now stood up and straightened his clothes, saying, “Let’s go out and buy some to bring back.”

Shan Haiming hand rubbed the dog’s head, his gaze fixed on Xiao Ning when a sudden laugh escaped him, “You like sweets and are afraid of dogs… are you a kid?”

But again, Xiao Ning from beside them, took a step away from once more.

That smile of his held no ill intent, more akin to one of half-grown boy who just found himself a playmate as he stared at Xiao Ning’s dazed expression. But then, out of nowhere, the look on Shan Haiming’s face changed. He tuned around in a flurry to see the fish he had frying in the pot whose colour was far from good, making it clear to see it had been overcooked.

In response, Xiao Ning: “…heheh.”

He regretted those words as soon as they passed his lips, however. This was due to his relationship with Shan Haiming still being quite odd. You could say they were close, but not really that close; yet they weren’t as distant as mere acquaintances you would give a greeting from afar. So currently, the tone of those words he just spoke were well beyond those limits.

You want to do this yourself?

Xiao Ning: “…”

Shan Haiming’s face didn’t look so good right then, with him going on to suggest, “Curry chicken.”

The oil crackled and popped, while the chopping knife emitted a dull thud. Xiao Ning’s thoughts in that moment had drifted far to the beyond.

He asked, but the potato peeling Xiao Ning did not give him a reply.

“What are you doing?” Xiao Ning who had finally regained his senses cried out to stop him.

Xiao Ning’s mouth fell open a bit, he had never expected Shan Haiming would do such a thing. Basically, he and Lu Yan never cooked and always ate out. Even if they were at home, they would still mostly eat take-out. Secretly, he also held the belief that bachelors just weren’t great cooks. “But there are no seasonings here either…”

Within the time it took him to be done with the fish, the half filled pot of oil had heated up. While he slid the fish into the oil, Xiao Ning began chopping the potatoes and radishes.

“You don’t have any groceries in there?” Shan Haiming now stood up and straightened his clothes, saying, “Let’s go out and buy some to bring back.”

Noticing a girl wearing a tracksuit running towards them with a leash in hand, Shan Haiming gave the dog a pat on its head before again picking up the bottle of oil beside him then chided, “Whatever it is you want to say, just say it. What are scared of? Can’t you speak?”

Shan Haiming thought it over once more, replying, “Cantonese poached chickenT/n: White cut chicken, or Baizhanji. A whole chicken is boiled with ginger and spring onions then chopped ans served with a dipping sauce..”

After this incident, things between the two was no longer as awkward as it had been earlier. Well… actually, Shan Haiming was more or less just like he had been as Xiao Ning was the one whose heart had relaxed a bit. All the things which had occurred in the past few days had made his heart feel heavy, but because there was someone there with him, now it all felt a bit lighter. Every now and again, he would say a few words to Shan Haiming. So like this, they had continued watching the television, saying a few words then none, as the afternoon passed them by.

The kitchen did have pots and pans, but apart from those, the cupboards were bare. By this time, Shan Haiming had already made his way to the door, replying, “We’ll just buy some while we’re there.”

Neither of Xiao Ning’s hand were empty either, as he idly followed from behind. When they got back to the apartment district, a golden-haired creature rushed towards them with glee. It was most likely attracted by the scent of meat coming from the bags Xiao Ning and Shan Haiming carried, as it now circled around them. But Xiao Ning wasn’t too happy when he saw the golden-haired creature, though. So, right at that moment, he had quietly shifted a few steps off to the other side.

Shan Haiming hand rubbed the dog’s head, his gaze fixed on Xiao Ning when a sudden laugh escaped him, “You like sweets and are afraid of dogs… are you a kid?”

If not, why did you say we’ll be cooking at home?

Shan Haiming’s brows lifted, but the dog’s owner was now in front of them, still out of breath, “Charlie, why did you run off so quickly… huh! Are you guys alright?”

That smile of his held no ill intent, more akin to one of half-grown boy who just found himself a playmate as he stared at Xiao Ning’s dazed expression. But then, out of nowhere, the look on Shan Haiming’s face changed. He tuned around in a flurry to see the fish he had frying in the pot whose colour was far from good, making it clear to see it had been overcooked.

At this, Xiao Ning couldn’t help but chuckle. These passing days of him going on whims, doing whatever comes to mind, already gave him the feeling that so long as he was happy, it was fine.

But a burst of sharp pain yanked him these straying thoughts back to reality, as his knife stopped, his hand moving away, to discover his finger was slowing being drenched in blood.

Besides, Xiao Ning had nothing to do that afternoon, and he reckoned if he doesn’t handle Shan Haiming well enough, then tomorrow he’d also have nothing to do either. The new neighbourhood district he currently lived in was a good ways away from civilization, and hasn’t been built that long ago so the necessary supporting facilities have not been adequately established. All there was, was an small unplanned marketplace, one which when Shan Haiming stood in, gave the feeling of him seeming like he didn’t quite match. So while looking at such a scene, Xiao Ning felt as if he could laugh. Shan Haiming was standing next to a fish vendor’s stand, a picky expression on his face while staring at the fish flopping around in a large plastic basin. He then pointed to one of the fish, prompting the vendor to swiftly grab a plastic bag and catch it. Now while using his fingers like a hook to hold the bagged fish in front of him, he inspected it with brows knitted, making one have no idea what he was possibly thinking.

For some unknown reason, hearing his words, Xiao Ning felt a rage rise within him. It felt as though all the things he did his best to suppress over all those years were just scratched open by Shan Haiming’s offhanded comment. “Not everyone is like you with nothing to be afraid of. What do you even know?”

At this, Xiao Ning couldn’t help but chuckle. These passing days of him going on whims, doing whatever comes to mind, already gave him the feeling that so long as he was happy, it was fine.

Shan Haiming just so happened to have gone next to him, taking a look at the results on his screen before casually remarking, “Don;t you like fish? I’ll handle this part myself.”

Xiao Ning bought various common seasonings and condiments from the other side then walked over, bag in hand, as he asked, “You bought a fish? How are we going to eat it, though?”

Hearing this, Xiao Ning’s expression became unsightly, his mouth moving to open but again sealed shut.

Shan Haiming looked up at him, replying, “Do I look like like I can?”

The oil crackled and popped, while the chopping knife emitted a dull thud. Xiao Ning’s thoughts in that moment had drifted far to the beyond.

N/A

Shan Haiming just so happened to have gone next to him, taking a look at the results on his screen before casually remarking, “Don;t you like fish? I’ll handle this part myself.”

“How would I know?” Shan Haiming lowered his own hand and spoke while looking at the groceries Xiao Ning was holding. Xiao Ning was left speechless in that moment but then he asked, “But aren’t you going to cook it?”

Shan Haiming looked at him curiously, asking, “Why do you want to go eat out?”

Squirrel Fish

N/A

Shan Haiming looked at him curiously, asking, “Why do you want to go eat out?”

It was probably a coincidence, and Xiao Ning wanted to let out a bitter laugh. How could his guess be so spot on. However, Xiao Ning replied, “No, it’s too difficult. We won’t be able to make it well.”

Shan Haiming looked up at him, replying, “Do I look like like I can?”

Xiao Ning wasn’t a person accustomed to bad-mouthing, but his the expression in his eyes were a bit hard to hide allowing his true feelings to be easily shown. Shan Haiming had no reaction at first, but once he noticed the other’s pursed lips, with a frown, he took the phone and typed in a name. After staring the screen for half a minute, he then dragged Xiao Ning along to buy the required ingredients. So following this round the time for dinner had arrived.

Xiao Ning felt a bit awkward, and so said nothing on their way back. Once they got to the apartment, he silently entered, following behind as Shan Haiming lead the way to the kitchen, who then said, “Recipe.”

Xiao Ning felt a bit awkward, and so said nothing on their way back. Once they got to the apartment, he silently entered, following behind as Shan Haiming lead the way to the kitchen, who then said, “Recipe.”

Shan Haiming then looked at his watch, “Isn’t it time to eat?”

What on earth have chickens ever done to you? Were you a weasel in your last life of something?

Xiao Ning looked at him in return, stating, “I can’t do it either.”

He quickly shut off the stove, scoping out the overdone fish. He was annoyed, but his face barely showed it. Sporting a slight frown, pursed lips and a clenched fist, he plated the fish then took a moment to think. After which, he picked the plate and headed to a nearby trash bin.

If not, why did you say we’ll be cooking at home?

The kitchen did have pots and pans, but apart from those, the cupboards were bare. By this time, Shan Haiming had already made his way to the door, replying, “We’ll just buy some while we’re there.”

For some unknown reason, hearing his words, Xiao Ning felt a rage rise within him. It felt as though all the things he did his best to suppress over all those years were just scratched open by Shan Haiming’s offhanded comment. “Not everyone is like you with nothing to be afraid of. What do you even know?”

Xiao Ning: “…that doesn’t sound like something home-cooked either.”

“You don’t have any groceries in there?” Shan Haiming now stood up and straightened his clothes, saying, “Let’s go out and buy some to bring back.”

After this incident, things between the two was no longer as awkward as it had been earlier. Well… actually, Shan Haiming was more or less just like he had been as Xiao Ning was the one whose heart had relaxed a bit. All the things which had occurred in the past few days had made his heart feel heavy, but because there was someone there with him, now it all felt a bit lighter. Every now and again, he would say a few words to Shan Haiming. So like this, they had continued watching the television, saying a few words then none, as the afternoon passed them by.

Xiao Ning looked at him in return, stating, “I can’t do it either.”

The oil crackled and popped, while the chopping knife emitted a dull thud. Xiao Ning’s thoughts in that moment had drifted far to the beyond.

Taking the bags in Xiao Ning’s hand, Shan Haiming then decisively instructed, “Just look it up on your phone.”

Xiao Ning bought various common seasonings and condiments from the other side then walked over, bag in hand, as he asked, “You bought a fish? How are we going to eat it, though?”

At his words, Xiao Ning sighed internally, but much to his surprise he wasn’t feeling upset, or even mad. His tone even had an upbeat ring to it as he said, “I’ll eat it then.”

That guy really did not seem to care one bit about he did. So while crinkling his brows lightly, Xiao Ning pulled out his phone and plopped it into that guy’s hand then went to busy himself washing the vegetables. When it came to stuff like cooking, Xiao Ning could practically be considered a novice. He knew he had to strip the veggies, and casually went through the motions, but had no idea how much he had to pull off.

Under these circumstances he had little choice, so Xiao Ning dejectedly took out his phone and searched online for recipes while in the market. Then out of politeness he also asked, “Is there anything else you’d like to eat?”

Xiao Ning looked at him in return, stating, “I can’t do it either.”

Shan Haiming looked at him curiously, asking, “Why do you want to go eat out?”

At this, Xiao Ning couldn’t help but chuckle. These passing days of him going on whims, doing whatever comes to mind, already gave him the feeling that so long as he was happy, it was fine.

At this, Xiao Ning couldn’t help but chuckle. These passing days of him going on whims, doing whatever comes to mind, already gave him the feeling that so long as he was happy, it was fine.

Xiao Ning looked at him in return, stating, “I can’t do it either.”

He asked, but the potato peeling Xiao Ning did not give him a reply.

Xiao Ning: “…that doesn’t sound like something home-cooked either.”

Shan Haiming thought it over seriously for a while, then replied: “HuangmenjiT/n: braised chicken—with potato. A whole chicken or legs and thighs are chopped then fried/boiled before being caramelised with burnt sugar before being braised with seasonings, mushrooms, potatoes, etc. and soy sauce.[1].”

If not, why did you say we’ll be cooking at home?

Xiao Ning: “…I can’t make that.”

Shan Haiming thought it over seriously for a while, then replied: “HuangmenjiT/n: braised chicken—with potato. A whole chicken or legs and thighs are chopped then fried/boiled before being caramelised with burnt sugar before being braised with seasonings, mushrooms, potatoes, etc. and soy sauce..”

Shan Haiming thought it over once more, replying, “Cantonese poached chickenT/n: White cut chicken, or Baizhanji. A whole chicken is boiled with ginger and spring onions then chopped ans served with a dipping sauce.[2].”

Xiao Ning: “…I can’t make that.”

He asked, but the potato peeling Xiao Ning did not give him a reply.

But a burst of sharp pain yanked him these straying thoughts back to reality, as his knife stopped, his hand moving away, to discover his finger was slowing being drenched in blood.

Xiao Ning: “…that doesn’t sound like something home-cooked either.”

Xiao Ning: “…that doesn’t sound like something home-cooked either.”

Shan Haiming’s face didn’t look so good right then, with him going on to suggest, “Curry chicken.”

“I’m the one who bought it, so why are you so pained?” Shan Haiming sighed.

He asked, but the potato peeling Xiao Ning did not give him a reply.

Having been stunned by the act for a few seconds, Xiao Ning soon abruptly withdrew his hand.

Staring at him curiously, Shan Haiming asked, “That must be your favourite. Do you want to make that one?”

If not, why did you say we’ll be cooking at home?

Xiao Ning: “…”

Shan Haiming, on the other hand, was currently holding onto a cleaver in a trance. He then proceeded to cut the fish open, while craning his head to look at the recipe from the phone laying on the counter, reading through the steps. “We don’t need to use this much stuff, right?”

Shan Haiming’s face didn’t look so good right then, with him going on to suggest, “Curry chicken.”

Xiao Ning looked at him in return, stating, “I can’t do it either.”

What on earth have chickens ever done to you? Were you a weasel in your last life of something?

Xiao Ning felt a bit awkward, and so said nothing on their way back. Once they got to the apartment, he silently entered, following behind as Shan Haiming lead the way to the kitchen, who then said, “Recipe.”

In all honesty, Xiao Ning had no clue how to make any of those dishes. But when he bought the seasonings earlier, he saw there was curry their too. Thinking he could handle that much, he summoned up his courage and gave a nod. “Alright then. But what about the fish?”

Shan Haiming just so happened to have gone next to him, taking a look at the results on his screen before casually remarking, “Don;t you like fish? I’ll handle this part myself.”

After this incident, things between the two was no longer as awkward as it had been earlier. Well… actually, Shan Haiming was more or less just like he had been as Xiao Ning was the one whose heart had relaxed a bit. All the things which had occurred in the past few days had made his heart feel heavy, but because there was someone there with him, now it all felt a bit lighter. Every now and again, he would say a few words to Shan Haiming. So like this, they had continued watching the television, saying a few words then none, as the afternoon passed them by.

In all honesty, Xiao Ning had no clue how to make any of those dishes. But when he bought the seasonings earlier, he saw there was curry their too. Thinking he could handle that much, he summoned up his courage and gave a nod. “Alright then. But what about the fish?”

“Oh.” Xiao Ning was never one to feel hungry quickly, so upon realising he said, “Let’s go out to eat then.”

Originally, Xiao Ning wanted to say that wasting food wasn’t a great thing to do, but once his eyes fell and took in all the smeared seasonings covering Shan Haiming’s clothes the word dancing on the tip of his tongue changed. “I’m pained because you went through all this trouble for a really long time just now.”

He asked, but the potato peeling Xiao Ning did not give him a reply.

Xiao Ning: “…that doesn’t sound like something home-cooked either.”

Shan Haiming just so happened to have gone next to him, taking a look at the results on his screen before casually remarking, “Don;t you like fish? I’ll handle this part myself.”

“You don’t have any groceries in there?” Shan Haiming now stood up and straightened his clothes, saying, “Let’s go out and buy some to bring back.”

Xiao Ning’s typing stopped.

“It’s inedible.” Shan Haiming thought it was baffling this was something Xiao Ning couldn’t see. Yet the other man still snatched the plate from him, then scrutinized it for a bit. “It’s not that bad, you only cooked half, so just finish the rest since it’s a whole fish.”

It was probably a coincidence, and Xiao Ning wanted to let out a bitter laugh. How could his guess be so spot on. However, Xiao Ning replied, “No, it’s too difficult. We won’t be able to make it well.”

Originally, Xiao Ning wanted to say that wasting food wasn’t a great thing to do, but once his eyes fell and took in all the smeared seasonings covering Shan Haiming’s clothes the word dancing on the tip of his tongue changed. “I’m pained because you went through all this trouble for a really long time just now.”

Shan Haiming thought it over once more, replying, “Cantonese poached chickenT/n: White cut chicken, or Baizhanji. A whole chicken is boiled with ginger and spring onions then chopped ans served with a dipping sauce..”

The kitchen did have pots and pans, but apart from those, the cupboards were bare. By this time, Shan Haiming had already made his way to the door, replying, “We’ll just buy some while we’re there.”

Xiao Ning felt a bit awkward, and so said nothing on their way back. Once they got to the apartment, he silently entered, following behind as Shan Haiming lead the way to the kitchen, who then said, “Recipe.”

Shan Haiming just so happened to have gone next to him, taking a look at the results on his screen before casually remarking, “Don;t you like fish? I’ll handle this part myself.”

Staring at him curiously, Shan Haiming asked, “That must be your favourite. Do you want to make that one?”

Taking the bags in Xiao Ning’s hand, Shan Haiming then decisively instructed, “Just look it up on your phone.”

Shan Haiming thought it over seriously for a while, then replied: “HuangmenjiT/n: braised chicken—with potato. A whole chicken or legs and thighs are chopped then fried/boiled before being caramelised with burnt sugar before being braised with seasonings, mushrooms, potatoes, etc. and soy sauce..”

At his words, Xiao Ning sighed internally, but much to his surprise he wasn’t feeling upset, or even mad. His tone even had an upbeat ring to it as he said, “I’ll eat it then.”

Shan Haiming hand rubbed the dog’s head, his gaze fixed on Xiao Ning when a sudden laugh escaped him, “You like sweets and are afraid of dogs… are you a kid?”

In response to this, Shan Haiming scoffed, countering, “If you can’t cook it properly, then you can’t. Don’t lump me in there with you.”

After this incident, things between the two was no longer as awkward as it had been earlier. Well… actually, Shan Haiming was more or less just like he had been as Xiao Ning was the one whose heart had relaxed a bit. All the things which had occurred in the past few days had made his heart feel heavy, but because there was someone there with him, now it all felt a bit lighter. Every now and again, he would say a few words to Shan Haiming. So like this, they had continued watching the television, saying a few words then none, as the afternoon passed them by.

Shan Haiming’s brows lifted, but the dog’s owner was now in front of them, still out of breath, “Charlie, why did you run off so quickly… huh! Are you guys alright?”

It was probably a coincidence, and Xiao Ning wanted to let out a bitter laugh. How could his guess be so spot on. However, Xiao Ning replied, “No, it’s too difficult. We won’t be able to make it well.”

He asked, but the potato peeling Xiao Ning did not give him a reply.

In response to this, Shan Haiming scoffed, countering, “If you can’t cook it properly, then you can’t. Don’t lump me in there with you.”

Squirrel Fish

Shan Haiming hand rubbed the dog’s head, his gaze fixed on Xiao Ning when a sudden laugh escaped him, “You like sweets and are afraid of dogs… are you a kid?”

That guy really did not seem to care one bit about he did. So while crinkling his brows lightly, Xiao Ning pulled out his phone and plopped it into that guy’s hand then went to busy himself washing the vegetables. When it came to stuff like cooking, Xiao Ning could practically be considered a novice. He knew he had to strip the veggies, and casually went through the motions, but had no idea how much he had to pull off.

The kitchen did have pots and pans, but apart from those, the cupboards were bare. By this time, Shan Haiming had already made his way to the door, replying, “We’ll just buy some while we’re there.”

It was probably a coincidence, and Xiao Ning wanted to let out a bitter laugh. How could his guess be so spot on. However, Xiao Ning replied, “No, it’s too difficult. We won’t be able to make it well.”

Squirrel Fish

That guy really did not seem to care one bit about he did. So while crinkling his brows lightly, Xiao Ning pulled out his phone and plopped it into that guy’s hand then went to busy himself washing the vegetables. When it came to stuff like cooking, Xiao Ning could practically be considered a novice. He knew he had to strip the veggies, and casually went through the motions, but had no idea how much he had to pull off.

Xiao Ning wasn’t a person accustomed to bad-mouthing, but his the expression in his eyes were a bit hard to hide allowing his true feelings to be easily shown. Shan Haiming had no reaction at first, but once he noticed the other’s pursed lips, with a frown, he took the phone and typed in a name. After staring the screen for half a minute, he then dragged Xiao Ning along to buy the required ingredients. So following this round the time for dinner had arrived.

In response, Xiao Ning: “…heheh.”

Shan Haiming then looked at his watch, “Isn’t it time to eat?”

But a burst of sharp pain yanked him these straying thoughts back to reality, as his knife stopped, his hand moving away, to discover his finger was slowing being drenched in blood.

Squirrel Fish

Having been stunned by the act for a few seconds, Xiao Ning soon abruptly withdrew his hand.

Holding the fish in one hand, and a large bottle of oil in his right, the Second Young Master Shan then announced, “Let’s go home.”

To the contrary, Shan Haiming put down the jug beside him, and bent down to stroke the dog’s golden fur. His hands were skilful as he rubbed its neck, and the golden retriever seemed quite comfortable with his petting. Its head kept arching and rubbing against him, incessantly sniffing Shan Haiming’s face, what else could this be called but joy.

He regretted those words as soon as they passed his lips, however. This was due to his relationship with Shan Haiming still being quite odd. You could say they were close, but not really that close; yet they weren’t as distant as mere acquaintances you would give a greeting from afar. So currently, the tone of those words he just spoke were well beyond those limits.

Xiao Ning bought various common seasonings and condiments from the other side then walked over, bag in hand, as he asked, “You bought a fish? How are we going to eat it, though?”

Besides, Xiao Ning had nothing to do that afternoon, and he reckoned if he doesn’t handle Shan Haiming well enough, then tomorrow he’d also have nothing to do either. The new neighbourhood district he currently lived in was a good ways away from civilization, and hasn’t been built that long ago so the necessary supporting facilities have not been adequately established. All there was, was an small unplanned marketplace, one which when Shan Haiming stood in, gave the feeling of him seeming like he didn’t quite match. So while looking at such a scene, Xiao Ning felt as if he could laugh. Shan Haiming was standing next to a fish vendor’s stand, a picky expression on his face while staring at the fish flopping around in a large plastic basin. He then pointed to one of the fish, prompting the vendor to swiftly grab a plastic bag and catch it. Now while using his fingers like a hook to hold the bagged fish in front of him, he inspected it with brows knitted, making one have no idea what he was possibly thinking.

The golden retriever now went back to rubbing against its owner, circling around them before panting to again look up at Shan Haiming. Seeing this, he smiled at and said to it, “Bye.”

Holding the fish in one hand, and a large bottle of oil in his right, the Second Young Master Shan then announced, “Let’s go home.”

Taking the bags in Xiao Ning’s hand, Shan Haiming then decisively instructed, “Just look it up on your phone.”

Neither of Xiao Ning’s hand were empty either, as he idly followed from behind. When they got back to the apartment district, a golden-haired creature rushed towards them with glee. It was most likely attracted by the scent of meat coming from the bags Xiao Ning and Shan Haiming carried, as it now circled around them. But Xiao Ning wasn’t too happy when he saw the golden-haired creature, though. So, right at that moment, he had quietly shifted a few steps off to the other side.

It was probably a coincidence, and Xiao Ning wanted to let out a bitter laugh. How could his guess be so spot on. However, Xiao Ning replied, “No, it’s too difficult. We won’t be able to make it well.”

Having been stunned by the act for a few seconds, Xiao Ning soon abruptly withdrew his hand.

Squirrel Fish

Shan Haiming’s brows lifted, but the dog’s owner was now in front of them, still out of breath, “Charlie, why did you run off so quickly… huh! Are you guys alright?”

Shan Haiming thought it over seriously for a while, then replied: “HuangmenjiT/n: braised chicken—with potato. A whole chicken or legs and thighs are chopped then fried/boiled before being caramelised with burnt sugar before being braised with seasonings, mushrooms, potatoes, etc. and soy sauce..”

That guy really did not seem to care one bit about he did. So while crinkling his brows lightly, Xiao Ning pulled out his phone and plopped it into that guy’s hand then went to busy himself washing the vegetables. When it came to stuff like cooking, Xiao Ning could practically be considered a novice. He knew he had to strip the veggies, and casually went through the motions, but had no idea how much he had to pull off.

“Are you also afraid of pain?” Shan Haiming smacked his lips, while giving him a look as if he wanted to smile.

To the contrary, Shan Haiming put down the jug beside him, and bent down to stroke the dog’s golden fur. His hands were skilful as he rubbed its neck, and the golden retriever seemed quite comfortable with his petting. Its head kept arching and rubbing against him, incessantly sniffing Shan Haiming’s face, what else could this be called but joy.

Then in the next, Xiao Ning’s left hand was already pulled towards Shan Haiming, as he lowered his head, capturing Xiao Ning’s finger tip with his lip while the warm softness of his tongue pressed against his wound, moving little by little, as it sucked.

But again, Xiao Ning from beside them, took a step away from once more.

Shan Haiming’s brows lifted, but the dog’s owner was now in front of them, still out of breath, “Charlie, why did you run off so quickly… huh! Are you guys alright?”

Suddenly lifting his head to look at Xiao Ning, Shan Haiming asked, “Why are you hiding so far away?”

“You’re bleeding.” Shan Haiming uttered, causing Xiao Ning to unconsciously turn to face him, and notice him staring at him for a moment, before letting out a “tch” and stating, “Such a slow reaction.”

Suddenly lifting his head to look at Xiao Ning, Shan Haiming asked, “Why are you hiding so far away?”

Xiao Ning: “…that doesn’t sound like something home-cooked either.”

It was probably a coincidence, and Xiao Ning wanted to let out a bitter laugh. How could his guess be so spot on. However, Xiao Ning replied, “No, it’s too difficult. We won’t be able to make it well.”

Holding the fish in one hand, and a large bottle of oil in his right, the Second Young Master Shan then announced, “Let’s go home.”

In response, Xiao Ning: “…heheh.”

Xiao Ning’s mouth fell open a bit, he had never expected Shan Haiming would do such a thing. Basically, he and Lu Yan never cooked and always ate out. Even if they were at home, they would still mostly eat take-out. Secretly, he also held the belief that bachelors just weren’t great cooks. “But there are no seasonings here either…”

Shan Haiming hand rubbed the dog’s head, his gaze fixed on Xiao Ning when a sudden laugh escaped him, “You like sweets and are afraid of dogs… are you a kid?”

Shan Haiming stared at him, his gaze soon falling before he, rather nonchalantly, turned to finish his task, then say, “As you wish then. I’m not going to eat it, though.”

Shan Haiming thought it over once more, replying, “Cantonese poached chickenT/n: White cut chicken, or Baizhanji. A whole chicken is boiled with ginger and spring onions then chopped ans served with a dipping sauce..”

“Oh.” Xiao Ning was never one to feel hungry quickly, so upon realising he said, “Let’s go out to eat then.”

Shan Haiming’s brows lifted, but the dog’s owner was now in front of them, still out of breath, “Charlie, why did you run off so quickly… huh! Are you guys alright?”

Shan Haiming’s face didn’t look so good right then, with him going on to suggest, “Curry chicken.”

You want to do this yourself?

Shan Haiming’s face didn’t look so good right then, with him going on to suggest, “Curry chicken.”

Hearing this, Xiao Ning’s expression became unsightly, his mouth moving to open but again sealed shut.

“What are you doing?” Xiao Ning who had finally regained his senses cried out to stop him.

That smile of his held no ill intent, more akin to one of half-grown boy who just found himself a playmate as he stared at Xiao Ning’s dazed expression. But then, out of nowhere, the look on Shan Haiming’s face changed. He tuned around in a flurry to see the fish he had frying in the pot whose colour was far from good, making it clear to see it had been overcooked.

Then in the next, Xiao Ning’s left hand was already pulled towards Shan Haiming, as he lowered his head, capturing Xiao Ning’s finger tip with his lip while the warm softness of his tongue pressed against his wound, moving little by little, as it sucked.

Noticing a girl wearing a tracksuit running towards them with a leash in hand, Shan Haiming gave the dog a pat on its head before again picking up the bottle of oil beside him then chided, “Whatever it is you want to say, just say it. What are scared of? Can’t you speak?”

After this incident, things between the two was no longer as awkward as it had been earlier. Well… actually, Shan Haiming was more or less just like he had been as Xiao Ning was the one whose heart had relaxed a bit. All the things which had occurred in the past few days had made his heart feel heavy, but because there was someone there with him, now it all felt a bit lighter. Every now and again, he would say a few words to Shan Haiming. So like this, they had continued watching the television, saying a few words then none, as the afternoon passed them by.

For some unknown reason, hearing his words, Xiao Ning felt a rage rise within him. It felt as though all the things he did his best to suppress over all those years were just scratched open by Shan Haiming’s offhanded comment. “Not everyone is like you with nothing to be afraid of. What do you even know?”

Staring at him curiously, Shan Haiming asked, “That must be your favourite. Do you want to make that one?”

Within the time it took him to be done with the fish, the half filled pot of oil had heated up. While he slid the fish into the oil, Xiao Ning began chopping the potatoes and radishes.

Xiao Ning: “…”

Then in the next, Xiao Ning’s left hand was already pulled towards Shan Haiming, as he lowered his head, capturing Xiao Ning’s finger tip with his lip while the warm softness of his tongue pressed against his wound, moving little by little, as it sucked.

Xiao Ning felt a bit awkward, and so said nothing on their way back. Once they got to the apartment, he silently entered, following behind as Shan Haiming lead the way to the kitchen, who then said, “Recipe.”

Shan Haiming’s brows lifted, but the dog’s owner was now in front of them, still out of breath, “Charlie, why did you run off so quickly… huh! Are you guys alright?”

“How would I know?” Shan Haiming lowered his own hand and spoke while looking at the groceries Xiao Ning was holding. Xiao Ning was left speechless in that moment but then he asked, “But aren’t you going to cook it?”

Suddenly lifting his head to look at Xiao Ning, Shan Haiming asked, “Why are you hiding so far away?”

He regretted those words as soon as they passed his lips, however. This was due to his relationship with Shan Haiming still being quite odd. You could say they were close, but not really that close; yet they weren’t as distant as mere acquaintances you would give a greeting from afar. So currently, the tone of those words he just spoke were well beyond those limits.

Xiao Ning looked at him in return, stating, “I can’t do it either.”

“It’s inedible.” Shan Haiming thought it was baffling this was something Xiao Ning couldn’t see. Yet the other man still snatched the plate from him, then scrutinized it for a bit. “It’s not that bad, you only cooked half, so just finish the rest since it’s a whole fish.”

The golden retriever now went back to rubbing against its owner, circling around them before panting to again look up at Shan Haiming. Seeing this, he smiled at and said to it, “Bye.”

Shan Haiming’s face didn’t look so good right then, with him going on to suggest, “Curry chicken.”

Then following this, to Xiao Ning he simply said, “Let’s go.”

The golden retriever now went back to rubbing against its owner, circling around them before panting to again look up at Shan Haiming. Seeing this, he smiled at and said to it, “Bye.”

In response to this, Shan Haiming scoffed, countering, “If you can’t cook it properly, then you can’t. Don’t lump me in there with you.”

Noticing a girl wearing a tracksuit running towards them with a leash in hand, Shan Haiming gave the dog a pat on its head before again picking up the bottle of oil beside him then chided, “Whatever it is you want to say, just say it. What are scared of? Can’t you speak?”

Besides, Xiao Ning had nothing to do that afternoon, and he reckoned if he doesn’t handle Shan Haiming well enough, then tomorrow he’d also have nothing to do either. The new neighbourhood district he currently lived in was a good ways away from civilization, and hasn’t been built that long ago so the necessary supporting facilities have not been adequately established. All there was, was an small unplanned marketplace, one which when Shan Haiming stood in, gave the feeling of him seeming like he didn’t quite match. So while looking at such a scene, Xiao Ning felt as if he could laugh. Shan Haiming was standing next to a fish vendor’s stand, a picky expression on his face while staring at the fish flopping around in a large plastic basin. He then pointed to one of the fish, prompting the vendor to swiftly grab a plastic bag and catch it. Now while using his fingers like a hook to hold the bagged fish in front of him, he inspected it with brows knitted, making one have no idea what he was possibly thinking.

Shan Haiming thought it over seriously for a while, then replied: “HuangmenjiT/n: braised chicken—with potato. A whole chicken or legs and thighs are chopped then fried/boiled before being caramelised with burnt sugar before being braised with seasonings, mushrooms, potatoes, etc. and soy sauce..”

Xiao Ning felt a bit awkward, and so said nothing on their way back. Once they got to the apartment, he silently entered, following behind as Shan Haiming lead the way to the kitchen, who then said, “Recipe.”

At this, Xiao Ning couldn’t help but chuckle. These passing days of him going on whims, doing whatever comes to mind, already gave him the feeling that so long as he was happy, it was fine.

That guy really did not seem to care one bit about he did. So while crinkling his brows lightly, Xiao Ning pulled out his phone and plopped it into that guy’s hand then went to busy himself washing the vegetables. When it came to stuff like cooking, Xiao Ning could practically be considered a novice. He knew he had to strip the veggies, and casually went through the motions, but had no idea how much he had to pull off.

Never had he expected, he and Shan Haiming would be cooking a meal.

The golden retriever now went back to rubbing against its owner, circling around them before panting to again look up at Shan Haiming. Seeing this, he smiled at and said to it, “Bye.”

Shan Haiming’s face didn’t look so good right then, with him going on to suggest, “Curry chicken.”

He asked, but the potato peeling Xiao Ning did not give him a reply.

In all honesty, Xiao Ning had no clue how to make any of those dishes. But when he bought the seasonings earlier, he saw there was curry their too. Thinking he could handle that much, he summoned up his courage and gave a nod. “Alright then. But what about the fish?”

Under these circumstances he had little choice, so Xiao Ning dejectedly took out his phone and searched online for recipes while in the market. Then out of politeness he also asked, “Is there anything else you’d like to eat?”

In response to this, Shan Haiming scoffed, countering, “If you can’t cook it properly, then you can’t. Don’t lump me in there with you.”

After he was done washing, he realised he had no bowl to put them into, so he he went to retrieve one from the cabinet. However, those dishes up until now had only been used when Lu Yan’s mother had come over, meaning they were currently covered in a thin layer of dust. So due to this, he took them over to the sink to wash them one by one.

You want to do this yourself?

But a burst of sharp pain yanked him these straying thoughts back to reality, as his knife stopped, his hand moving away, to discover his finger was slowing being drenched in blood.

For some unknown reason, hearing his words, Xiao Ning felt a rage rise within him. It felt as though all the things he did his best to suppress over all those years were just scratched open by Shan Haiming’s offhanded comment. “Not everyone is like you with nothing to be afraid of. What do you even know?”

Noticing a girl wearing a tracksuit running towards them with a leash in hand, Shan Haiming gave the dog a pat on its head before again picking up the bottle of oil beside him then chided, “Whatever it is you want to say, just say it. What are scared of? Can’t you speak?”

Shan Haiming thought it over once more, replying, “Cantonese poached chickenT/n: White cut chicken, or Baizhanji. A whole chicken is boiled with ginger and spring onions then chopped ans served with a dipping sauce..”

“I’m the one who bought it, so why are you so pained?” Shan Haiming sighed.

“Oh.” Xiao Ning was never one to feel hungry quickly, so upon realising he said, “Let’s go out to eat then.”

Shan Haiming, on the other hand, was currently holding onto a cleaver in a trance. He then proceeded to cut the fish open, while craning his head to look at the recipe from the phone laying on the counter, reading through the steps. “We don’t need to use this much stuff, right?”

N/A

Neither of Xiao Ning’s hand were empty either, as he idly followed from behind. When they got back to the apartment district, a golden-haired creature rushed towards them with glee. It was most likely attracted by the scent of meat coming from the bags Xiao Ning and Shan Haiming carried, as it now circled around them. But Xiao Ning wasn’t too happy when he saw the golden-haired creature, though. So, right at that moment, he had quietly shifted a few steps off to the other side.

It was probably a coincidence, and Xiao Ning wanted to let out a bitter laugh. How could his guess be so spot on. However, Xiao Ning replied, “No, it’s too difficult. We won’t be able to make it well.”

Shan Haiming stared at him, his gaze soon falling before he, rather nonchalantly, turned to finish his task, then say, “As you wish then. I’m not going to eat it, though.”

He asked, but the potato peeling Xiao Ning did not give him a reply.

Suddenly lifting his head to look at Xiao Ning, Shan Haiming asked, “Why are you hiding so far away?”

Xiao Ning: “…that doesn’t sound like something home-cooked either.”

He asked, but the potato peeling Xiao Ning did not give him a reply.

What on earth have chickens ever done to you? Were you a weasel in your last life of something?

Within the time it took him to be done with the fish, the half filled pot of oil had heated up. While he slid the fish into the oil, Xiao Ning began chopping the potatoes and radishes.

At his words, Xiao Ning sighed internally, but much to his surprise he wasn’t feeling upset, or even mad. His tone even had an upbeat ring to it as he said, “I’ll eat it then.”

To the contrary, Shan Haiming put down the jug beside him, and bent down to stroke the dog’s golden fur. His hands were skilful as he rubbed its neck, and the golden retriever seemed quite comfortable with his petting. Its head kept arching and rubbing against him, incessantly sniffing Shan Haiming’s face, what else could this be called but joy.

The oil crackled and popped, while the chopping knife emitted a dull thud. Xiao Ning’s thoughts in that moment had drifted far to the beyond.

He asked, but the potato peeling Xiao Ning did not give him a reply.

The oil crackled and popped, while the chopping knife emitted a dull thud. Xiao Ning’s thoughts in that moment had drifted far to the beyond.

“You don’t have any groceries in there?” Shan Haiming now stood up and straightened his clothes, saying, “Let’s go out and buy some to bring back.”

But a burst of sharp pain yanked him these straying thoughts back to reality, as his knife stopped, his hand moving away, to discover his finger was slowing being drenched in blood.

The oil crackled and popped, while the chopping knife emitted a dull thud. Xiao Ning’s thoughts in that moment had drifted far to the beyond.

Then following this, to Xiao Ning he simply said, “Let’s go.”

Xiao Ning wasn’t a person accustomed to bad-mouthing, but his the expression in his eyes were a bit hard to hide allowing his true feelings to be easily shown. Shan Haiming had no reaction at first, but once he noticed the other’s pursed lips, with a frown, he took the phone and typed in a name. After staring the screen for half a minute, he then dragged Xiao Ning along to buy the required ingredients. So following this round the time for dinner had arrived.

“You’re bleeding.” Shan Haiming uttered, causing Xiao Ning to unconsciously turn to face him, and notice him staring at him for a moment, before letting out a “tch” and stating, “Such a slow reaction.”

Never had he expected, he and Shan Haiming would be cooking a meal.

But again, Xiao Ning from beside them, took a step away from once more.

But a burst of sharp pain yanked him these straying thoughts back to reality, as his knife stopped, his hand moving away, to discover his finger was slowing being drenched in blood.

After he was done washing, he realised he had no bowl to put them into, so he he went to retrieve one from the cabinet. However, those dishes up until now had only been used when Lu Yan’s mother had come over, meaning they were currently covered in a thin layer of dust. So due to this, he took them over to the sink to wash them one by one.

Neither of Xiao Ning’s hand were empty either, as he idly followed from behind. When they got back to the apartment district, a golden-haired creature rushed towards them with glee. It was most likely attracted by the scent of meat coming from the bags Xiao Ning and Shan Haiming carried, as it now circled around them. But Xiao Ning wasn’t too happy when he saw the golden-haired creature, though. So, right at that moment, he had quietly shifted a few steps off to the other side.

Shan Haiming looked up at him, replying, “Do I look like like I can?”

This was a very new experience for Xiao Ning, so he lifted up his finger to take a good look.

He quickly shut off the stove, scoping out the overdone fish. He was annoyed, but his face barely showed it. Sporting a slight frown, pursed lips and a clenched fist, he plated the fish then took a moment to think. After which, he picked the plate and headed to a nearby trash bin.

Xiao Ning’s mouth fell open a bit, he had never expected Shan Haiming would do such a thing. Basically, he and Lu Yan never cooked and always ate out. Even if they were at home, they would still mostly eat take-out. Secretly, he also held the belief that bachelors just weren’t great cooks. “But there are no seasonings here either…”

Shan Haiming’s brows lifted, but the dog’s owner was now in front of them, still out of breath, “Charlie, why did you run off so quickly… huh! Are you guys alright?”

Squirrel Fish

The kitchen did have pots and pans, but apart from those, the cupboards were bare. By this time, Shan Haiming had already made his way to the door, replying, “We’ll just buy some while we’re there.”

“You’re bleeding.” Shan Haiming uttered, causing Xiao Ning to unconsciously turn to face him, and notice him staring at him for a moment, before letting out a “tch” and stating, “Such a slow reaction.”

“Oh.” Xiao Ning was never one to feel hungry quickly, so upon realising he said, “Let’s go out to eat then.”

Shan Haiming thought it over seriously for a while, then replied: “HuangmenjiT/n: braised chicken—with potato. A whole chicken or legs and thighs are chopped then fried/boiled before being caramelised with burnt sugar before being braised with seasonings, mushrooms, potatoes, etc. and soy sauce..”

He regretted those words as soon as they passed his lips, however. This was due to his relationship with Shan Haiming still being quite odd. You could say they were close, but not really that close; yet they weren’t as distant as mere acquaintances you would give a greeting from afar. So currently, the tone of those words he just spoke were well beyond those limits.

Squirrel Fish

Shan Haiming thought it over seriously for a while, then replied: “HuangmenjiT/n: braised chicken—with potato. A whole chicken or legs and thighs are chopped then fried/boiled before being caramelised with burnt sugar before being braised with seasonings, mushrooms, potatoes, etc. and soy sauce..”

If not, why did you say we’ll be cooking at home?

Xiao Ning bought various common seasonings and condiments from the other side then walked over, bag in hand, as he asked, “You bought a fish? How are we going to eat it, though?”

Then in the next, Xiao Ning’s left hand was already pulled towards Shan Haiming, as he lowered his head, capturing Xiao Ning’s finger tip with his lip while the warm softness of his tongue pressed against his wound, moving little by little, as it sucked.

Noticing a girl wearing a tracksuit running towards them with a leash in hand, Shan Haiming gave the dog a pat on its head before again picking up the bottle of oil beside him then chided, “Whatever it is you want to say, just say it. What are scared of? Can’t you speak?”

Shan Haiming hand rubbed the dog’s head, his gaze fixed on Xiao Ning when a sudden laugh escaped him, “You like sweets and are afraid of dogs… are you a kid?”

Never had he expected, he and Shan Haiming would be cooking a meal.

“You don’t have any groceries in there?” Shan Haiming now stood up and straightened his clothes, saying, “Let’s go out and buy some to bring back.”

If not, why did you say we’ll be cooking at home?

Having been stunned by the act for a few seconds, Xiao Ning soon abruptly withdrew his hand.

1. 黄焖鸡: huáng mèn jī: [lit.] yellow braised chicken is a braised chicken dish made with chicken (whole or legs and thighs), shiitake mushrooms, bell peppers, potatoes, sweet bean paste, ginger, chillis… it’s stewed in burnt sugar and soy sauce in added. It’s not really a hard dish to make, but it’s probably intimidating if cooking isn’t your thing. This is stuff you usually get from a restaurant. Huangmenji pic. Huangmenji video[]2. 白斩鸡: bái zhǎn jī: white cut/chopped chicken is a Cantonese dish made by boiling a whole chicken in a broth that isn’t seasoned with much to preserve the natural flavour of the chicken (ginger, spring onion and cooking wine), then after boiling on low heat to make the meat nice and soft [don’t forget to use the three dip method~] then it’s soaked in an ice bath to relax the skin, then chopped into pieces and served with a dipping sauce. Baizhanji pic Baizhanji video here[]松鼠鱼: sōng shǔ yú: squirel fish: A whole fish is de-boned and beheaded and filleted (without separating the tail), with flesh deep lattice forming cuts made on each fillet. apply a egg wash then flour and fry. Smear that sucker in a sweet and sour sauce and our done! Squirrel fish video []iana: these two cooking together is one of my favourite things (*˘︶˘*) Just knowing how far south their efforts are going tickles my wicked little heart ψ(｀∇´)ψ

Suddenly lifting his head to look at Xiao Ning, Shan Haiming asked, “Why are you hiding so far away?”

After this incident, things between the two was no longer as awkward as it had been earlier. Well… actually, Shan Haiming was more or less just like he had been as Xiao Ning was the one whose heart had relaxed a bit. All the things which had occurred in the past few days had made his heart feel heavy, but because there was someone there with him, now it all felt a bit lighter. Every now and again, he would say a few words to Shan Haiming. So like this, they had continued watching the television, saying a few words then none, as the afternoon passed them by.

Shan Haiming then looked at his watch, “Isn’t it time to eat?”

Neither of Xiao Ning’s hand were empty either, as he idly followed from behind. When they got back to the apartment district, a golden-haired creature rushed towards them with glee. It was most likely attracted by the scent of meat coming from the bags Xiao Ning and Shan Haiming carried, as it now circled around them. But Xiao Ning wasn’t too happy when he saw the golden-haired creature, though. So, right at that moment, he had quietly shifted a few steps off to the other side.

After this incident, things between the two was no longer as awkward as it had been earlier. Well… actually, Shan Haiming was more or less just like he had been as Xiao Ning was the one whose heart had relaxed a bit. All the things which had occurred in the past few days had made his heart feel heavy, but because there was someone there with him, now it all felt a bit lighter. Every now and again, he would say a few words to Shan Haiming. So like this, they had continued watching the television, saying a few words then none, as the afternoon passed them by.

Staring at him curiously, Shan Haiming asked, “That must be your favourite. Do you want to make that one?”

“Are you also afraid of pain?” Shan Haiming smacked his lips, while giving him a look as if he wanted to smile.

That smile of his held no ill intent, more akin to one of half-grown boy who just found himself a playmate as he stared at Xiao Ning’s dazed expression. But then, out of nowhere, the look on Shan Haiming’s face changed. He tuned around in a flurry to see the fish he had frying in the pot whose colour was far from good, making it clear to see it had been overcooked.

The oil crackled and popped, while the chopping knife emitted a dull thud. Xiao Ning’s thoughts in that moment had drifted far to the beyond.

Having been stunned by the act for a few seconds, Xiao Ning soon abruptly withdrew his hand.

Feeling as though nothing he said in that moment would be right, Xiao Ning sealed his lips tightly, standing on guard as he looked at Shan Haiming. Unbothered, as always, Shan Haiming simply pulled out a tissue and handed it Xiao Ning, but after the other took it he remarked with a grin, “Tastes like potato.”

Holding the fish in one hand, and a large bottle of oil in his right, the Second Young Master Shan then announced, “Let’s go home.”

After he was done washing, he realised he had no bowl to put them into, so he he went to retrieve one from the cabinet. However, those dishes up until now had only been used when Lu Yan’s mother had come over, meaning they were currently covered in a thin layer of dust. So due to this, he took them over to the sink to wash them one by one.

Hearing this, Xiao Ning’s expression became unsightly, his mouth moving to open but again sealed shut.

At this, Xiao Ning couldn’t help but chuckle. These passing days of him going on whims, doing whatever comes to mind, already gave him the feeling that so long as he was happy, it was fine.

You want to do this yourself?

You want to do this yourself?

“I’m the one who bought it, so why are you so pained?” Shan Haiming sighed.

That smile of his held no ill intent, more akin to one of half-grown boy who just found himself a playmate as he stared at Xiao Ning’s dazed expression. But then, out of nowhere, the look on Shan Haiming’s face changed. He tuned around in a flurry to see the fish he had frying in the pot whose colour was far from good, making it clear to see it had been overcooked.

Under these circumstances he had little choice, so Xiao Ning dejectedly took out his phone and searched online for recipes while in the market. Then out of politeness he also asked, “Is there anything else you’d like to eat?”

But again, Xiao Ning from beside them, took a step away from once more.

Under these circumstances he had little choice, so Xiao Ning dejectedly took out his phone and searched online for recipes while in the market. Then out of politeness he also asked, “Is there anything else you’d like to eat?”

He quickly shut off the stove, scoping out the overdone fish. He was annoyed, but his face barely showed it. Sporting a slight frown, pursed lips and a clenched fist, he plated the fish then took a moment to think. After which, he picked the plate and headed to a nearby trash bin.

“Are you also afraid of pain?” Shan Haiming smacked his lips, while giving him a look as if he wanted to smile.

“What are you doing?” Xiao Ning who had finally regained his senses cried out to stop him.

This was a very new experience for Xiao Ning, so he lifted up his finger to take a good look.

After this incident, things between the two was no longer as awkward as it had been earlier. Well… actually, Shan Haiming was more or less just like he had been as Xiao Ning was the one whose heart had relaxed a bit. All the things which had occurred in the past few days had made his heart feel heavy, but because there was someone there with him, now it all felt a bit lighter. Every now and again, he would say a few words to Shan Haiming. So like this, they had continued watching the television, saying a few words then none, as the afternoon passed them by.

In all honesty, Xiao Ning had no clue how to make any of those dishes. But when he bought the seasonings earlier, he saw there was curry their too. Thinking he could handle that much, he summoned up his courage and gave a nod. “Alright then. But what about the fish?”

Xiao Ning’s mouth fell open a bit, he had never expected Shan Haiming would do such a thing. Basically, he and Lu Yan never cooked and always ate out. Even if they were at home, they would still mostly eat take-out. Secretly, he also held the belief that bachelors just weren’t great cooks. “But there are no seasonings here either…”

But again, Xiao Ning from beside them, took a step away from once more.

Xiao Ning: “…I can’t make that.”

Taking the bags in Xiao Ning’s hand, Shan Haiming then decisively instructed, “Just look it up on your phone.”

“It’s inedible.” Shan Haiming thought it was baffling this was something Xiao Ning couldn’t see. Yet the other man still snatched the plate from him, then scrutinized it for a bit. “It’s not that bad, you only cooked half, so just finish the rest since it’s a whole fish.”

He regretted those words as soon as they passed his lips, however. This was due to his relationship with Shan Haiming still being quite odd. You could say they were close, but not really that close; yet they weren’t as distant as mere acquaintances you would give a greeting from afar. So currently, the tone of those words he just spoke were well beyond those limits.

In all honesty, Xiao Ning had no clue how to make any of those dishes. But when he bought the seasonings earlier, he saw there was curry their too. Thinking he could handle that much, he summoned up his courage and gave a nod. “Alright then. But what about the fish?”

Noticing a girl wearing a tracksuit running towards them with a leash in hand, Shan Haiming gave the dog a pat on its head before again picking up the bottle of oil beside him then chided, “Whatever it is you want to say, just say it. What are scared of? Can’t you speak?”

“I’m the one who bought it, so why are you so pained?” Shan Haiming sighed.

Shan Haiming then looked at his watch, “Isn’t it time to eat?”

Originally, Xiao Ning wanted to say that wasting food wasn’t a great thing to do, but once his eyes fell and took in all the smeared seasonings covering Shan Haiming’s clothes the word dancing on the tip of his tongue changed. “I’m pained because you went through all this trouble for a really long time just now.”

Shan Haiming thought it over once more, replying, “Cantonese poached chickenT/n: White cut chicken, or Baizhanji. A whole chicken is boiled with ginger and spring onions then chopped ans served with a dipping sauce..”

Xiao Ning bought various common seasonings and condiments from the other side then walked over, bag in hand, as he asked, “You bought a fish? How are we going to eat it, though?”

Within the time it took him to be done with the fish, the half filled pot of oil had heated up. While he slid the fish into the oil, Xiao Ning began chopping the potatoes and radishes.

He regretted those words as soon as they passed his lips, however. This was due to his relationship with Shan Haiming still being quite odd. You could say they were close, but not really that close; yet they weren’t as distant as mere acquaintances you would give a greeting from afar. So currently, the tone of those words he just spoke were well beyond those limits.

Feeling as though nothing he said in that moment would be right, Xiao Ning sealed his lips tightly, standing on guard as he looked at Shan Haiming. Unbothered, as always, Shan Haiming simply pulled out a tissue and handed it Xiao Ning, but after the other took it he remarked with a grin, “Tastes like potato.”

Shan Haiming stared at him, his gaze soon falling before he, rather nonchalantly, turned to finish his task, then say, “As you wish then. I’m not going to eat it, though.”

Suddenly lifting his head to look at Xiao Ning, Shan Haiming asked, “Why are you hiding so far away?”

At his words, Xiao Ning sighed internally, but much to his surprise he wasn’t feeling upset, or even mad. His tone even had an upbeat ring to it as he said, “I’ll eat it then.”

Xiao Ning’s typing stopped.

Xiao Ning: “…that doesn’t sound like something home-cooked either.”

That smile of his held no ill intent, more akin to one of half-grown boy who just found himself a playmate as he stared at Xiao Ning’s dazed expression. But then, out of nowhere, the look on Shan Haiming’s face changed. He tuned around in a flurry to see the fish he had frying in the pot whose colour was far from good, making it clear to see it had been overcooked.

“It’s inedible.” Shan Haiming thought it was baffling this was something Xiao Ning couldn’t see. Yet the other man still snatched the plate from him, then scrutinized it for a bit. “It’s not that bad, you only cooked half, so just finish the rest since it’s a whole fish.”

“Oh.” Xiao Ning was never one to feel hungry quickly, so upon realising he said, “Let’s go out to eat then.”