Chapter 2, Family Banquet (Part 2)

Zhao Chunian had just opened his mouth to speak when the door swung open. A young woman, around twenty-five or twenty-six years old, burst into the room with great energy. She tossed her bag onto the nearest sofa with a flurry. She was beautiful, with an attractive figure and fashionable attire. Her almond-shaped eyes swept over Zhao Chunian for a moment before shifting to her father and brother.

As soon as Zheng Xianwen entered the kitchen, he heard this remark, and his expression seemed somewhat dismissive: "Mom, you are too anxious. She is quiet and not eager to marry; stop pushing her out all the time. Zhao Chunian is not an ordinary person; you shouldn't just have Dad bring someone home like this. We need to consider this matter further."

Very good, Meng Ti made a couple of sounds of admiration, recalling the unprecedented excitement of yesterday's elective class, "During the class, the girls were almost screaming"

Zhao Chunian sat opposite her, watching her eat with a flushed face, resembling a freshly washed apple, and couldn't help but smile slightly: "If you are interested, it is still not too late to take the postgraduate entrance exam for the humanities now."

This meal has been going on for quite some time, and the meaning is exceedingly clear. Even if Zheng Ruosheng is quite satisfied with Zhao Chunian, she is still frustrated by the blind date that was arranged without her consent. She is holding back her anger and is not someone who can be easily manipulated. With a quick thought, she sets her sights on Zheng Xianwen and Meng Ti, smiling as she says: "Speaking of which, weren't you quite popular among the girls when you were studying? There were at least a company, if not a battalion, of girls pursuing you. How come during these years abroad, you haven't brought back a sister-in-law for me? Why not learn from Meng Zheng, your elder brother?"

This statement carries a significant implication of probing for information. If Zhao Chunian had previously suspected that this meal had the intention of matchmaking, he is now even more certain of this intent, and his expression tightens.

Oh, not bad

Meng Ti originally did not want to stay in the living room chatting with these people, so she happily responded and followed the delightful aroma of food into the kitchen

After saying this, she seemed to remember that she was wearing an apron and still holding a spatula, instructing Zheng Baichang: "Lao Zheng, go pour some drinks for the guests"

Mr. Zheng, you are the one who deserves the praise

Zhao Chunian expressed agreement: "Indeed."

Liu Changhua shot a glare at his daughter, then turned to Zhao Chunian, feigning ignorance as he asked, "Where is your family from? What is your family situation?"

This compliment was delivered just right, and Zheng Xianwen couldn't help but think that Zhao Chunian was indeed surprisingly eloquent

Zheng Xianwen had been quietly observing him through the picture book. The young teacher looked at Meng Ti, his eyes filled with brilliance; a fleeting feeling of displeasure crossed his mind as he picked up a tender, stewed chicken wing and placed it in her bowl, carefully drizzling sauce over it.

It is not surprising that Zhao Chunian knows Zheng Baichang; one is the associate dean of the College of Arts, and the other is a teacher in the same college. However, today's meal is clearly a family gathering, and he is ultimately still an outsider. What is he doing here?

Mothers always worry that their children are out in the world, not having enough to eat or wear. Meng Ti felt a bit emotional as she recalled her own mother. When she returned from a summer camp as a child, slightly tanned, her mother was extremely distressed. In fact, Zheng Xianwen had not lost any weight; he looked exceptionally healthy, with strong arms, fit enough to participate in the Olympics immediately.

He is not the kind of person who pays attention to every detail, yet he noticed the subtle changes in his expression: Zhao Chunian's gaze remained fixed on the direction where Meng Ti had disappeared, even though all that was left was a half-closed door; however, the polite smile on his face suddenly cracked open, and a completely different kind of smile flashed across his lips, one so gentle that it was surprising.

Liu Changhua suddenly realized and exclaimed "Ah," then turned and entered the kitchen. After taking a couple of steps, he turned back and said, "Xiao Ti, come to the kitchen and help me check the pot."

It was entirely the posture of a mother-in-law questioning her son-in-law. Meng Ti was indiscriminately stuffing food into her mouth while attentively listening to Zhao Chunian's response. She learned that Zhao Chunian was twenty-seven years old, the same age as Zheng Xianwen. He was a local, attended university in the north, earned a bachelor's degree in software engineering, and also obtained a dual degree in microelectronics, excelling in both subjects. He suddenly switched to modern literature for his master's degree and pursued a doctorate in literary theory. Having grown weary of staying in the north for too long and longing for the lush green mountains and waters of his southern hometown, he decided to return and find a job at a university. His parents passed away early, and he had a grandfather and an elder uncle above him.

Zheng Xianwen paused for a moment in thought, "It is difficult to say."

Indeed, he is truly a good child. A week before the school term started, I went to the school to find Old Zheng and saw him there. He was in the office discussing this semester's courses with the teachers. The other teachers were unwilling to teach the first class in the morning, so they all passed it on to him. He accepted it all without changing his smile, being polite and refined. Not to mention these things, this child is also quite handsome, truly spirited. I like looking at him. How do you think he compares to Xianwen?

Liu Changhua took the beef stew with potatoes off the stove and placed another pot of medicinal cuisine on. As a well-known internal medicine doctor, Liu Changhua's medicinal dishes are famous among the faculty and staff families, not only for their nourishing properties but also for their exquisite taste, reputedly leading to stories of patients offering "a fortune for a recipe." Although she was initially hesitant about coming to this meal, that hesitation was completely dispelled by the rich and enticing aroma. Meng Ti lifted the lid of the pot, and the perfectly stewed taro and black chicken brought tears to her eyes; she felt a sense of joy at the thought of being able to enjoy that delicious soup tonight, truly a right decision. With her parents away for a month, she had been eating at the cafeteria every day, and the quality of the school cafeteria's food was simply not worth mentioning. Finally finding an opportunity to improve her dining experience was truly exhilarating.

Zhao Chunian was equally surprised: "Meng Ti? What are you doing here?"

Liu Changhua was slicing the codonopsis root bit by bit, while directing Meng Ti to wash the vegetable leaves. He asked her, "Xiao Meng, have you seen Teacher Zhao? What do you think of him?"

Although Liu Changhua was warm and welcoming, Meng Ti still felt a bit uncomfortable with such enthusiasm. It was evident that Zheng Xianwen felt the same way and reminded her: "Mom, why don't you head back to the kitchen? It seems like the pot is about to boil."

Then everyone's attention quickly shifted to the meal itself. The others, having tasted Liu Changhua's culinary skills, did not find it particularly stunning. In contrast, Zhao Chunian praised the dishes incessantly. Being a scholar, he was measured in his demeanor and occasionally referenced classical allusions, which made Liu Changhua beam with delight, feeling that this young man was indeed becoming more and more endearing.

The kitchen was quite chaotic, with all sorts of food ingredients scattered across the table, including fresh meat, beef, cilantro, and cabbage, among others. On the two stoves were a ceramic soup pot and a pressure cooker. Liu Changhua lifted the lid of the soup pot and tossed in a handful of cilantro, releasing the aroma of beef stew that wafted throughout the kitchen. That fragrance was truly rare to find. Meng Ti took a deep breath and asked with a smile, "Aunt Liu, just how many dishes are you planning to make?" Liu Changhua lifted the lid of the soup pot and tossed in a handful of cilantro, releasing the aroma of beef stew that wafted throughout the kitchen. That fragrance was truly rare to find. Meng Ti took a deep breath and asked with a smile, "Aunt Liu, just how many dishes are you planning to make?"

"Why would it matter?" Liu Changhua smiled and looked at Zheng Ruosheng, "Isn't that right, quietly speaking?"

Zheng Xianwen watched her bounce into the kitchen, and the smile on his face deepened: "Is it still the same as back then? Just the smell of food makes you this happy."

Meng Tixin remarked to the book, no wonder his performance in class is not high; it turns out he is a latecomer to the humanities. She swallowed the sweet taro in her mouth, took a sip of soup, and exclaimed: "What an excellent example of a science student transitioning to the humanities"

Sister Xiao Shout said that their daughter, Zheng Ruosheng, is two years younger than Zheng Xianwen and has grown up playing in the same courtyard. Although these two siblings share the same mother, they do not resemble each other much. Zheng Ruosheng works at a bank and possesses both good looks and capabilities, which has led her to have high standards, resulting in her not having a boyfriend. Liu Changhua is truly worried about her situation and whenever she sees a well-educated man with a neat appearance, she wants to introduce him to her daughter

The meal was truly a delightful occasion for both hosts and guests. The main topic of conversation at first was Zheng Xianwen. He remains as outstanding as ever; while abroad, he collaborated on a project with his teachers and classmates that won an international award. It is said that he is returning to the country, and several well-known architectural design research institutes have proactively reached out to him. Before his return, he had already chosen the one with the best benefits, which happens to have its headquarters in this city, and he will start working there next week

It is rare for the constitution to return, so naturally, we should make the most of it. Over the past few years, he has been abroad and has become quite thin.

Zhao Chunian smiled and explained: "Yes, Dean Zheng. Meng Ti took my elective course, so we got to know each other."

I still do not understand enough? Liu Changhua said, "Your father has already reviewed his file, he is knowledgeable, knows how to conduct himself appropriately, what more could be required?"

Meng Ti also perked up her ears to listen, and Zheng Xianwen's gaze was entirely drawn to her bright eyes eagerly waiting for gossip. He felt both amused and exasperated, finding it difficult to express his feelings. He placed a hand on her shoulder and pulled her closer, saying, "Mom, you should ask A Ti about this. Ask her what her first impression of Teacher Zhao is."

I did not expect to encounter the teacher I had only met last night so soon. She quickly stepped aside to let someone in, her gaze rolling back and forth over Zhao Chunian twice, her tone incredulous: "Teacher Zhao?"

Zheng Bochang did not think much of it, saying, "Nonsense"

Zheng Ruosheng was already accustomed to matters like blind dates and replied, "It doesn't matter when he comes to visit, as I don't live at home anyway"

Liu Changhua let out a long sigh, then, filled with hope, lifted the pot lid and took a sniff: "In any case, I hope this time it will work. Let's not be picky anymore."

Zhao Chunian chuckled twice and responded, "Is that so?"

Two people were exchanging pleasantries as they entered, just as Liu Changhua excitedly pushed the door open from the kitchen, bringing with her a delightful aroma of food. She scanned the living room and quickly smiled upon seeing Zhao Chunian, greeting him warmly: "Oh, Xiao Zhao, you’re here! Why are you all still standing? Please, have a seat. What would you like to drink? Would you like something to eat?"

Zheng Bochang nodded slightly. After he changed his shoes and entered the house, he waved for Zheng Xianwen to come over and introduced several young people to each other: "This is Zhao Chunian, the new teacher from the College of Arts. This is my son, Zheng Xianwen. Meng Ti is Professor Meng's daughter from upstairs, the daughter of Professor Zhang. We have watched her grow up; she is basically like my half-daughter."

Indeed, I am preparing to introduce her to you, Sister Xiao Sheng," Liu Changhua said with a satisfied smile, "With Sister Xiao Sheng's temperament, it would be good to have someone who can be accommodating, and besides, she is quite good-looking. She will surely stop being so picky. They make quite a good match, don't you think?

Truly deserving of a Doctor's degree in Literature, Zheng Xianwen's keen eye lingered on the calligraphy and paintings for a moment, and then he smiled slightly: "This was given to me by Mr. Fu, my grandfather. The family motto is to pass down poetry and books through generations, and to uphold filial piety and friendship. However, I studied the sciences, which goes against the family teachings..."

Zhao Chunian, with the demeanor of someone visiting another's home for the first time, politely surveyed the living room. Pointing at the calligraphy and paintings on the wall, he expressed his surprise: "This is Mr. Fu's calligraphy and painting; it is truly rare to see such works elsewhere. It is no wonder that this is a family of literary tradition and a lineage of nobility"

As soon as Meng Ti entered the kitchen, she was deeply enchanted

Zheng Xianwen smiled at his sister, calmly sipping tea, while Zheng Baichang nodded, quite pleased with his daughter's prompt return home. He made the second introduction of the day: "Xiao Zhao, let me introduce you. This is my daughter Zheng Ruosheng. Ruosheng, this is Teacher Zhao Chunian."

Meng Ti casually replied: "I attended one of his classes and found him to be quite a nice person"

"Therefore, that person is too lethal to women," Zheng Xianwen said, "Naturally, if Ruo Sheng makes a good first impression on her, I would be somewhat concerned."

Zheng Bo glanced at the two individuals and asked, "Do you know each other?"

Zhao Chunian smiled and nodded slightly, saying, "As long as Director Zheng and Dr. Liu do not mind."

Meng Ti smiled faintly, thinking to herself that there were no criteria for comparison, and vaguely said: "It's about the same, half a pound or eight taels."

No, I had Old Zheng test it a while ago, and he said he doesn't have a girlfriend. Truly, Aunt Liu is well-prepared before taking action

Meng Ti and *Tu* pondered for a moment in her heart, the disheartened faces of those first-year girls from last night floating before her eyes. She decided to subtly remind her, "I think Teacher Zhao must have a girlfriend by now, right?"

She was very expressive—Zheng Xianwen replied casually, smiling as she turned her face away, but in that moment, she caught a glimpse of Zhao Chunian's expression, and her voice abruptly ceased

"You are worrying too much," Liu Changhua declared decisively, "Everyone has their flaws as well as their strengths. In my years of observing people, I have never been wrong."

"I can't do it. I'm not as capable as Teacher Zhao. I'm struggling to keep up with my double degree in Finance," Meng Ti shook her head, "It's fine as a hobby, but if I really had to study that, I wouldn't be able to handle it."

Liu Changhua nodded and asked, "What did your grandfather and uncle do?"

"Knowledge itself is not divided into the arts and sciences," Zhao Chunian shook his head and smiled, "Lu Xun and Guo Moruo turned to literature; Qian Weichang and Su Buqing abandoned literature for the sciences, all of which are examples of the moment."

The phone rang in the living room. Zheng Bochang went to answer it, while Zheng Xianwen smiled and invited Zhao Chunian to take a seat on the sofa. He picked up the pot of tea that Meng Ti had brewed but had not touched at all, saying, "Teacher Zhao, please make yourself comfortable."

This answer surprised Meng Ti slightly, but she still accepted it readily, saying, "That should be no problem."

Zhao Chunian smiled slightly at Meng Ti, then extended his hand to shake hands with Zheng Xianwen: "Hello, Mr. Zheng"

Zheng Ruosheng chuckled and said, "Dad, please give Meng Ti a backdoor pass."

The hands of two men clasped in the air, and Zheng Xianwen displayed a polite smile, "Teacher Zhao is truly a talented young man"

Zheng Bochang on this side often hangs up the phone, and upon turning back, he hears two people chatting very well, with the host-guest relationship particularly harmonious, which instantly brings him comfort: "Young people should communicate more."

To conduct business is to be a merchant

Eat more, Liu Changhua served him some dishes, and said, "Come over to my house to play often in the future"

This afternoon, my mother introduced the situation of Zhao Chunian. He knew that Zhao Chunian was not much older than him and had just arrived at the school to serve as a lecturer. Mothers tend to exaggerate when they speak, and in her words, Zhao Chunian was truly unparalleled; unexpectedly, Zhao Chunian indeed seemed to live up to her praise. To his surprise, he had already met Meng Ti and appeared to be quite familiar with her.

Liu Changhua's eyes brightened, "Did you see anyone? What did they say? What was your first impression?"