Happy New Year!
Welcome, 2025!
May everyone be happy!
Before long, a platter of blanched river shrimp was brought to the table. Zhu Wuneng proudly announced, "I caught these myself. They're as fresh as can be!"
Xiao Yi's gaze lingered unconsciously on the platter of shrimp. Though her eyes remained calm, Chen Xiaojun caught that barely perceptible glimmer of anticipation.
Zhu Wuneng wore an honest, guileless expression. "I know the Young Master and Sister Xiao Yi love these. I can't make 'Blossoming Wealth and Fortune,' but blanched shrimp are tender and delicious too."
Dugu Fu teased, "You certainly know how to take the easy way out, choosing a simple, no-frills method like blanching."
Zhu Wuneng scratched his head sheepishly and grinned. "The Young Master said that although blanching is simple, the secret lies in the dipping sauce. Get the sauce right, and the shrimp's flavor naturally rises to another level. I spent ages perfecting these sauces."
As he spoke, he pointed to the little dishes of colorful, fragrant dipping sauces on the table.
At that, Dugu Fu and the others picked up their chopsticks, each taking a blanched shrimp, dipping it in sauce, and taking a small bite.
At once, the tender shrimp and rich dipping sauce mingled in their mouths, drawing involuntary praise. "Good, good! These shrimp are so tender, smooth, and refreshing, and the sauce is just right."
Hearing their compliments, Zhu Wuneng's face blossomed into a smile. "Right? Young Master, Sister Xiao Yi, hurry and try some too. I picked these river shrimp out specially. I guarantee you'll eat your fill!"
A faint smile curved Chen Xiaojun's lips. Without saying much, he simply reached out, picked up a shrimp, and began carefully peeling its shell.
His fingers moved lightly and deftly, as though he had practiced