Rebirth: Splendid Marriage in the 80s Chapter 2303: 2239: Three Families Join Forces

The torment has been so severe lately that he retreats to the rooftop garden every time a meal is served, desperate to avoid the scent of food from others.

Chiang Xiao gave a small nod. "That is fine, but you must not overindulge at first. Pay close attention to how your body reacts; if any discomfort arises, cease eating immediately. If you feel alright, you may finish the half bowl."

“Understood, understood,” he replied.

“Old Man Yang, remember to take small mouthfuls and maintain your grace,” Meng Xinian chimed in.

“I am well aware, I am well aware.”

Initially, Old Yang truly attempted to nibble at his food, barely using his chopsticks to gather a few grains of rice for a taste.

To his surprise, the rice was exceptionally sweet and fragrant. It wasn't hard in the slightest and was very easy to swallow.

Furthermore, even though Chiang Xiao had prepared only vegetarian dishes, they retained the natural essence of the vegetables perfectly, making the meal taste fresh and savory.

Once he began, he found it nearly impossible to stop.

By the time Meng Xinian reached out to retrieve the bowl, Old Yang realized with a start that he had finished the entire half bowl of rice without thinking, and every plate on the table was now empty.

“That is enough. I warned you to practice restraint.” Meng Xinian extended his hand. “Hand over the chopsticks.”

It had reached the point where he practically had to wrestle the bowl away from the old man.

Even Old Yang was stunned by his own indulgent appetite. He surrendered the chopsticks to Meng Xinian but remained there, lingering on the delicious aftertaste of the meal.

“Chiang Xiao, your culinary skills are truly impressive. Did you undergo specific training in the culinary arts?” Old Yang could not resist asking.

Chiang Xiao shook her head. “No, I simply incorporated some medicinal herbs into these recipes. They serve to heighten the flavor, which is why you find them so palatable.”

“So, you added medicinal herbs?”

The realization dawned on Old Yang and his wife simultaneously.

“I am told you share a close bond with the National Medical Sage, Doctor Chen Baoshen. You must have picked up some techniques from him, then? I have heard that Doctor Chen is also a master of medicinal cuisine.”

At these words, Chiang Xiao nodded. “Grandpa Chen has indeed instructed me in many things.”

She decided it was best to attribute her skill to Chen Baoshen.

“It seems to me that you have the talent to surpass your mentor,” Old Yang remarked.

Chiang Xiao offered a smile.

Surpassing her teacher...

She chose not to elaborate further, as it was true that Chen Baoshen had shared a great deal of knowledge with her.

Just as she prepared to stand and clear the table, Meng Xinian placed a hand on her shoulder. “Stay seated. I will handle the tidying and the dishes.”

Aunt Yang attempted to rise and assist, but Meng Xinian quickly intervened. “Please, stay where you are. I have it covered.”

Watching him move with such efficiency, the Elder Couple Yang were quite taken aback.

“I have never seen the Meng lad act with such diligence.”

Chiang Xiao pressed her lips together to hide a giggle.

“Actually, he has always been quite hardworking.”

In her presence, at least, Meng Xinian was never one to be lazy.

Aunt Yang took her hand, patting it gently as she spoke. “It is all because you are such a wonderful girl.”

Chiang Xiao smiled before turning to Old Yang with a question. “Are you acquainted with the young lady from earlier?”

She was recalling the words of Chen Yujun. Was it true that all the daughters of the Long Family secured advantageous marriages?

If the Gao Family and the Lu Family were to become connected as in-laws through the Long Family, the alliance of these three families would pose a significant challenge for Li Hanzhong.

Naturally, such a development would impact Meng Xinian as well.

If those holding power above him continued to create obstacles, his ascent would demand far greater effort, regardless of his immense capability.

She certainly had no intention of letting her man endure such hardship.

However, the idea of making concessions to Long Xiaocai was completely out of the question.

What a ridiculous thought.