Chapter 52 "The New Home"
Xie Shiyan stopped in the entryway. His deep gaze slowly swept over every corner of the living room: the soft sofa covers, the curtains glowing with warm light, and the vibrant corner of the garden.
Finally, the focus shifts to the figure wearing an apron, carrying a plate of steamed fish out of the open kitchen.
Jiang Yining, dressed in simple home clothes, had a flushed face from her busy work. When she saw him, her eyes curved into crescents: "You're back? Perfect timing, wash your hands and we can eat."
Lu Jingshen also exclaimed in amazement: "The change is too great. I feel so much more comfortable. It's like I've been moved from an ice cellar to a warm stove."
“Of course,” Xiao Xiao proudly raised her chin. “It’s all thanks to Ningning’s vision and hard work. She picked out the items, directed the installation, and even cooked this meal.”
Xie Shiyan didn't speak, but his gaze remained fixed on Jiang Yining, something churning intensely deep within his eyes. He silently walked to the kitchen, took the plate of steaming fish from her hands, and his fingertips inadvertently brushed against the back of her hand, the warm touch making his fingertips tremble slightly.
He placed the fish steadily on the table, which was covered with a brand-new tablecloth and set with new tableware. The atmosphere at dinner was exceptionally warm. The food was delicious, and laughter filled the air; Jiang Yining's dishes carried the comforting flavors of home cooking.
After the meal, the men took the initiative to clear the dishes. Zhou Yanzhe opened the cupboard and looked at the neatly arranged, shiny new bowls and plates and various bottles and jars of seasonings. He couldn't help but joke, "Tsk tsk, look at this complete set of equipment. Ayan, congratulations, the lady of the house has finally moved in."
Lu Jingshen opened the huge double-door refrigerator and looked at the neatly categorized vegetables, fruits, drinks, and... several large boxes of different flavors of ice cream and snacks inside. He couldn't help but laugh out loud: "This hoarding ability... is amazing."
Xie Shiyan walked to the refrigerator and looked at the colorful snacks and ice cream that were almost overflowing inside—all from Jiang Yining's afternoon shopping spree.
Xie Shiyan's lips curved into a faint but genuine smile as he took the beer Zhou Yanzhe offered and tilted his head back to take a sip. The icy liquid slid down his throat, yet brought a wave of warmth.
"Thank you." Xie Shiyan's voice was not loud, but it clearly reached everyone's ears, carrying a sense of satisfaction as if the dust had settled.
The noise gradually subsided as the hands of the vintage wall clock slid past nine. Friends rose to say goodbye, offering their heartfelt blessings. Before leaving, Xiao Xiao affectionately took Jiang Yining's arm: "Ningning, would you like to come to my shop tomorrow? The new lemon tart and passion fruit mousse are sure to be your favorites."
She blinked, a hint of pride in her eyes, "My chain store has opened its fifth location!"
Shen Nian'an said gently, "My law firm is nearby, and Ningning is always welcome."
Jiang Yining looked at her radiant best friends and was genuinely happy for them. Nian An was still the calm and intelligent legal elite, while Xiao Xiao had turned her love for desserts into a thriving business. That was wonderful.
She smiled and politely declined, "I can't tomorrow. I made plans with my mother to take some relatives sightseeing. Next time, I'll definitely make a special trip to your area." She winked playfully.
"It's a deal. I'll find you for afternoon tea in a few days." Xiao Xiao smiled and waved, and the group disappeared noisily at the gate.
The noise subsided, and the vast space was instantly enveloped in a tranquil and sweet atmosphere. Xie Shiyan naturally took Jiang Yining's hand, his warm palm enveloping her slightly cool one.
The two walked side by side up the spiral staircase leading to the second floor, their steps making a steady, soft sound. Pushing open the heavy door to the master bedroom, Xie Shiyan paused slightly, then chuckled softly with a hint of helplessness.
The scene before him was unlike anything he remembered, where only black, white, and gray existed. Soft champagne gold wallpaper replaced the cold, hard gray, and light, creamy white gauze curtains and a layer of warm orange blackout curtains hung in front of the huge French windows.
The most eye-catching thing is the large bed that occupies the visual center. It is no longer a cold, dark color, but covered with an extremely soft and comfortable light yellow bedding, and even has a few cute lemon-shaped pillows scattered on it.
The air was filled with a faint, crisp, and slightly sour lemon scent, dispelling all the coldness and desolation of the past.
"How is it?" Jiang Yining looked up at him, her eyes sparkling with anticipation, like she was showing off a treasure, and a hint of nervousness that was barely perceptible. "Is it good?"
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