His breathing gradually became long and even.

A faint smile lingered at the corners of her lips.

She finally drifted off into a peaceful sleep.

The next morning.

Yan Ning got up, washed up, and went downstairs.

Before even entering the kitchen, I could hear faint noises coming from inside.

Xie Huaiye was fighting against the frying pan.

Inside the pan is a heart-shaped fried egg that's trying its best to take shape.

Although the edges were a bit burnt and the shape was crooked, it was clear that a lot of care was put into it.

Xie Huaiye looked up and saw her, then wiped the sweat from his brow, a little embarrassed.

"You're up? I wanted to make a nicer heart-shaped egg, but it seems... my skills are limited."

Yan Ning approached and stood beside him, a smile curving her lips:

"It's alright. Is it too much to ask Mr. Xie to cook?"

He shook his head, his tone very serious: "It's not difficult. As long as you like it, I can learn every day."

Yan Ning was stunned for a moment, her heart softening completely.

She took the plate he offered and said softly:

"Okay, then I'm going to have a good taste of your cooking today."

Yan Ning took a bite, and thought, "Hmm... there seems to be a bit too much salt."

Seeing Yan Ning eating quietly, Xie Huaiye's eyes brightened, and the corners of his mouth unconsciously turned up.

Just then, Xiao Zhuo skipped and hopped in.

He burst into laughter the moment he saw the fried egg:

"Brother, why does your heart look like a potato?"

Xie Huaiye was both amused and exasperated, and gently pushed him:

"Go away, go play your game!"

Xiao Zhuo giggled and drove the toy car around the living room.

Suddenly, the sound of high heels came from the entrance hall.

This was followed by a calm and serious female voice:

"Xiao Zhuo, stop running around the room. How many times have I told you?"

The entire living room fell silent instantly.

Xiao Zhuo immediately stood up straight and whispered, "Mom... why are you back?"

Xie Huaiye paused, his expression slightly composed.

Yan Ning also put down her chopsticks and looked up at the door.

A middle-aged woman with an elegant demeanor, dressed in a beige suit, stood there.

Her gaze swept indifferently over the two people in the kitchen.

Finally, it landed on Yan Ning's face.