Wang Xiaoliang stood at the stove in an apron. Steak bubbled in sauce in the pan, its seared aroma wafting out faster than the range hood could clear it.
It was his first time making red-braised steak. He had watched the food blogger's video three times, following it step by step. He had almost burned the caramelized sugar and only saved it by hurriedly adding water. A cleaned sea bass sat at the other end of the stove, chopped garlic scapes were arranged on a plate, and shredded potatoes soaked in a basin of water.
The minced scallion, ginger, and garlic on the cutting board were divided into three little piles.
The doorbell rang.
He wiped his hands on a dishcloth and glanced into the living room.
Fan Qishan's door was closed. Luo Bisheng wasn't back yet.
Fine, I'll get it myself.
He rubbed his hands against his apron twice as he walked over to open the door.
The moment he pulled it open, a fragrant breeze swept in.
It was a scent he knew all too well, one that belonged to Wei Zijin alone.
Wei Zijin's face appeared before him, and her whole body was already pressed against his. Her suitcase slid outward behind her. Neither of them paid it any attention, and it found a spot where it could stand steadily and stopped.
Wang Xiaoliang stumbled half a step backward as she latched firmly onto him. While wrapping her arms around his neck, Wei Zijin swiftly scanned their surroundings-no one in the living room, Fan Qishan's door closed, and the stairs were empty too.
Then she brought her lips to his.
Wang Xiaoliang supported her waist, not daring to let his hands wander for fear of getting grease on her clothes.
Their lips met, but they didn't dare