School gate.
Geng Lu led Jiang Ning into a narrow alley.
The cobblestone path in the alley was even harder to walk on. They went around two hundred meters before stopping in front of a two-story building.
Geng Lu said, "Jiang Ning, this is our secret space. Come on in."
A signboard stood beside the entrance, bearing the three large words "Carbon Pot Chicken," along with several common dishes.
The lights were on inside. A brown counter stood by the door, with drinks and alcohol displayed on top. A woman in her early twenties sat behind it.
Geng Lu greeted her, "Sister Wei."
Sister Wei smiled. "Same spot as before. Go on, everything's ready for you."
The small dining area held four tables, with four slightly smaller rooms connected on either side. Those were the private rooms.
Business was slow today. There was only one occupied table in the main hall.
After considering it, Geng Lu chose to sit in the same row as He Qingtang.
As soon as they sat down, the Boss brought over a rectangular pot. A rich aroma immediately hit them. Through the steam, they could see the bright red broth and plentiful, tender chicken inside.
The Boss lit the small gas stove, gave them a few instructions, and left.
Geng Lu picked up the kettle and poured some water into the cups. After swirling it around, she used it to rinse the chopsticks and spoons for everyone. Then she introduced the place to Jiang Ning. "A serving of Carbon Pot Chicken here is forty-eight yuan, and it comes with seven vegetables to cook—vermicelli, tofu sheets, mushrooms, greens."
"I think it's more worth it than braised chicken, and it tastes amazing."
As she spoke, Geng Lu picked up her chopsticks and placed a piece of chicken