1153: So Fragile

So Fragile

As the soft morning light filtered through the expansive windows of his penthouse, casting a gentle glow across the sleek marble countertops, Xia Zhao was already immersed in the bustling world of his kitchen. Clad in a crisp apron, he moved with purpose and grace, his dedication evident in each meticulous action.2

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, mingling with the tantalizing scents of spices and herbs that danced from simmering pots on the stovetop. Xia Zhao's nimble fingers skillfully prepared a medley of ingredients, chopping vibrant vegetables with precision.

A symphony of sizzling pans and clinking utensils provided the soundtrack to his culinary choreography. He gracefully navigated the spacious kitchen, effortlessly transitioning between different stations, ensuring every dish received the attention it deserved. The love he poured into each creation was palpable, infusing the room with an undeniable warmth.

He was used to living a rather simple life and that's why, he usually didn't cook that many dishes. He had to eat alone anyway so it didn't really matter much. But today, it was certainly different. The purpose for such diligence was different too.

After all, he was cooking this breakfast for Mu Chenyan, the little piggy who was still sleeping without a care in the world. But just knowing that she was right now sleeping in his bedroom was enough to fill him with endless energy and happiness.

So, he even hummed as he worked in the kitchen.

*Beep!*

Xia Zhao caught the sound of the main door opening and turned to look who opened the door of his penthouse.

Seeing his nephew, he frowned and asked, "Where are you coming from?"

Ru gave him a look, "Does it matter to you? You kicked me out. What does it matter to you now where I was? And anyway, you don't care either."

"I'm just making sure that you are well rested."

"Are you?" asked Ru in return. "It looks like you didn't even sleep last night in excitement."

Xia Zhao glared at Ru but decided to ignore Ru and went back to arranging the fresh fruit platter which looked pleasing to even just look at. 

"You really don't like hearing the truth," commented Ru and went to look for something.

"What are you doing?" asked Xia Zhao.

Ru looked up at him, "Uncle, I won't disturb your love-filled breakfast. I'm just looking for something I left here last night."

"You're leaving?"

"Or else?"

Xia Zhao thought about it before saying, "Don't leave just yet. It's better if you talk to Raelle about what you found."

"Can't you do this much?" asked Ru. "This young master's time is very precious."

"I don't really care!"

"If you kept this attitude, beware of me tripping you in the near future. Annoying me doesn't end well for people. After all, I hold grudges."

"Are you sure? I thought you always get back at people right when you're wronged." He took a moment and asked, "What did you leave here, by the way?"

"It's the gift I brought for Raelle," answered Ru.

"You didn't give it last night?" he inquired.

"I have to personally deliver it into her hands."

"What kind of a treasure is it?"

Right when he asked that, Ru found the rectangular rosewood box and seeing the box, Xia Zhao's brows were slightly raised.

He sighed, "Well, it does seem like a treasure."

"When you see her, call me," said Ru as he turned to leave but stopped and asked, "Am I supposed to tell about your progress in love to anyone or we are keeping it a secret for now?"

"You're smart enough," said Xia Zhao. 

"I'll keep it a secret for now then," said Ru. "After all, I don't trust you very much. What if you messed up the hard won relationship within a few days? Wouldn't I be making the Elders happy for nothing?"

"This lack of trust of yours is the motivation why I'm trying my best here."

Ru glances at the array of dishes he made and said, "Hmmm... You're indeed working very hard. How many people are invited over the breakfast? Seeing this arrangement, it almost feels like you're ready to see your in-laws."

"Is it too much?" Xia Zhao also stopped and asked hesitantly. He suddenly was a bit unsure about his choices. But he wanted to make all of these dishes for Mu Chenyan. He couldn't bring himself to miss out on even a single one.

Ru observed his reaction and said, "As long as you're happy and satisfied, Uncle. Who cares if it's really too much? Don't think about it."

"Then disappear. Stop making me doubt myself."

"My presence has never been this loathes before in my entire life."

"Feeling hurt?"

"My feelings aren't so fragile," retorted Ru. "If I was so weak, I would have been eaten by people." He went around the counter and took out chopsticks and clipped a bite of scrambled eggs with tomatoes.

"What are you doing?" asked Xia Zhao.

"Eating. Isn't that obvious, Uncle? Is something wrong with your eyes? Do you need my help? I'm very good at it."

"I don't need your help. You should help yourself and treat your brain! This isn't for you."

Ru wasn't stimulated by his words or even bothered. In fact, he stole a tea egg and started peeling it leisurely as he replied to Xia Zhao, "I'm helping you taste everything. You can't possibly go in blind. A critic is necessary in this situation."

"Doing this doesn't suit your identity."

"If you're bound by your identity for too long, you start losing who you really are," replied Ru seriously. "So, Uncle, what's wrong with letting your inner self go once in a while?"

Xia Zhao went silent as he saw Ru smiling at him knowingly and ate the tea eggs as he moved towards the door to leave. Xia Zhao knew those words had more meaning to them than it seems but he didn't want to divulge into it for now.

"Thanks for the egg!" 

Xia Zhao shook his head when he heard that.

pqdm.com