Chapter 161: Homemade Seasonings
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Chen Youwei chuckled softly. “That’s my brother, Qin Silong, and this lovely girl is my younger sister, Qin Zhenzhen.”
“Younger sister? Well, then, call me elder sister!” Chen Shanshan said with a warm smile.
Upon discovering that Qin Zhenzhen was her long-lost sister, Chen Shanshan felt a surge of excitement and eagerly held Qin Zhenzhen’s hands.
In turn, Qin Zhenzhen also liked Chen Shanshan, finding her to be a straightforward and amiable person. As the two girls spent time together, they quickly formed a close bond and even shared a bed at night.
Curious about Qin Zhenzhen’s presence in the prefecture with her brother,
Chen Shanshan couldn’t help but inquire, “What brings you here? Can you tell
Qin Zhenzhen frowned slightly as she recalled how her father had admonished her not to reveal any information. However, she decided to share the truth with Chen Shanshan, as she saw no reason to keep it a secret.
“Well, my husband is participating in this year’s examination, so we came along to support him. However, he’s residing in the settlement provided by the prefectural school.”
Chen Shanshan was taken aback. “Wait, you’re married? And you got married at just 14 years old?”
Feeling somewhat embarrassed, Qin Zhenzhen explained that those actions belonged to the previous host’s life and not her own. She admitted that she, personally, would not have chosen to marry even at the age of 24.
Realizing the situation, Chen Shanshan sympathized and offered her advice, “Since your husband is staying in the school’s settlement, there’s not much you can do by following him. Besides, outsiders are not allowed inside, even family members or attendants. Perhaps, it’s best not to follow him there.”
It was clear that Qin Zhenzhen’s situation was somewhat restricted, and there was little she could do in this scenario, given the rules of the prefectural school’s settlement.
Due to the subpar amenities and overcrowding with at least six people sharing a single room, the residents of the settlement were generally financially constrained.
When asked about her husband’s living situation, Qin Zhenzhen explained, “He is temporarily staying there, but we plan to rent a house tomorrow.”
Despite having the means to stay in a higher-class hostel, Su Bin opted for the safety of the settlement provided by the prefectural school. Not only did it offer accommodation, but it also provided food, even if the quality was not great. Su Bin decided it was better to eat the basic food at the settlement, considering last year’s experience of falling sick after eating outside.
The following morning, Qin Zhenzhen woke up early to prepare breakfast. Mrs. Chen had bought meat and vegetables from the street, and together, they kneaded the dough.
“Miss. Qin, why don’t you get some more rest?” Mrs. Chen suggested.
With a smile, Qin Zhenzhen replied, “I’m used to waking up early, and I’m here to cook. I don’t mean to boast, but I’m a good cook, and I even brought some homemade seasonings.”
The night before, Qin Zhenzhen had discussed her intentions with Madame Chen and handed her some money to prepare an extra breakfast for her husband. Chen Youwei had informed his wife about Qin Zhenzhen’s husband participating in the examination, and how she was concerned about his food at the settlement.
Mrs. Chen gladly encouraged her, “Well then, go ahead and do it. We are all looking forward to a delicious feast!”
Qin Zhenzhen skillfully prepared lean meat noodles for everyone, adding her secret ingredient, spirit water, and her special homemade seasonings.
As they savored the delicious noodles, everyone, except for Qin Silong, couldn’t help but stare wide-eyed in amazement. Chen Shanshan was particularly impressed and eagerly grabbed Qin Zhenzhen’s arm, asking, “How did you make this? Please tell me what you put in it. I can’t believe it tastes this good!”
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and revealed, “It’s all thanks to my homemade seasonings.”
“Your homemade seasonings? You made them yourself, and you have them with you?” Chen Shanshan exclaimed in surprise.
Qin Zhenzhen nodded proudly, “Yes, indeed. I brought three bottles of this seasoning with me. If you all like it, I’d be more than happy to continue providing it in the future..”