Zhang Xiaomei had previously prepared the dishes for three people, but now there was only half the amount, and Zhou Bin pouted unhappily.

Shi Lan rubbed his head and took some meat out of the dish for him. She then saw Zhang Xiaomei's sly smile, looking like she had gotten a great deal, and couldn't help but get angry.

"Alright, let's eat."

Seeing that the two looked uncomfortable, Zhang Xiaomei quickly shut her mouth. After thinking for a moment, she went back to the kitchen. A moment later, a delicious aroma wafted over, and Zhang Xiaomei came over carrying a small plate of crispy, finger-sized shrimp.

"Come on, come on, I'll give everyone an extra meal."

Zhou Bin chewed on his chopsticks, his eyes lingering on the plate.

Shi Lan glanced at her with a hint of reproach, "I'll let it go this time, but don't shortchange us on food next time."

Zhang Xiaomei picked up some crispy river shrimp for Zhou Bin and said, "I'll try my best next time."

Shi Lan frowned, about to lecture her, when she looked up and saw Zhang Xiaomei's calm appearance. Suddenly, a thought flashed through her mind, and she understood Zhang Xiaomei's intention.

Seeing the slight change in her expression, Zhang Xiaomei knew she understood, and a smile appeared on her lips.

"Sister Shi, when it comes to kung fu, you are naturally the best, but when it comes to interpersonal relationships, you are no match for me."

Shi Lan blushed, "That's exactly right."

The man was indeed polite, but who can say that a polite man isn't a bad person? He offered five pounds of rice in exchange for a meal. If they didn't accept, he would definitely become suspicious. After all, grain is more expensive than gold these days. The fact that they wouldn't trade five pounds of gold for it only shows that they don't lack that little bit. The man would then understand from the side that they have plenty of food and don't care that it's enough for the three of them to eat for a week.

Zhang Xiaomei's approach was the best way to cover up Fang Shi's actions; Shi Lan ultimately lacked the shrewdness that comes from living on the margins of society. (To be continued.)