The Return of the God Level Assassin Chapter 1307: MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL PREPARATION IN JI YUN'S HOME

The kitchen buzzed with warmth and the lively noises of meal preparation. Shen Ji Yun hovered by the stove, transferring the stir-fried veggies to a spacious serving dish. The veggies shimmered, cooked to perfection. Next to him, Jiang Yue observed with a nod of approval.

"That appears fantastic, Xiao Yun," Jiang Yue commented. "You've surpassed yourself once more."

Shen Ji Yun simply grinned and placed the dish down, then grabbed the following pan. "The fish ought to be done. Uncle Yue, would you mind tasting the soup?"

Jiang Yue approached the big pot and removed the cover. Vapor billowed upward, infused with the hearty aroma of chicken and spices. He mixed it gently, then scooped a bit with a spoon for a sample. He gave a satisfied nod. "The soup tastes ideal."

From the kitchen entrance, Shen Yi Mu lounged against the door, arms folded, observing the pair in action. A faint grin tugged at his mouth.

"You realize, seeing you two bustle around in the kitchen is always enjoyable," Shen Yi Mu remarked offhandedly. "It feels just like my spouse and child preparing dinner for me."

Jiang Yue looked back over his shoulder with a resigned smile. "Brother Mu, quit the fantasizing and go set the table in the yard now."

Shen Yi Mu's mouth formed a mock sulk. He straightened from the frame and sauntered to Jiang Yue's spot. He bent close and planted a swift peck on his cheek before stepping out. "Fine, fine. I'm on it."

He vanished via the rear exit into the garden. From the kitchen pane, Shen Ji Yun spotted his uncle shifting about, positioning seats and gazing at the heavens. Dinner would happen outdoors this evening, beneath the starry expanse, allowing them to admire the full moon during the meal.

Shen Ji Yun nearly broke into a smile. This night marked their Mid-Autumn Festival celebration as a trio. Unlike grand clans hosting elaborate gatherings, theirs might appear subdued. Yet Shen Ji Yun favored this setup. It far outshone mingling with the broader Shen clan.

His uncle remained at odds with his grandfather, ruling out any visit to the Shen estate. Even if invited, Uncle would likely opt to stay put for the festival. He'd never abandon Uncle Yue. As their inaugural Mid-Autumn since reuniting, separation was unthinkable.

This explained Shen Ji Yun's refusal of Luo Yan's offer to join his family for the holiday. Luo Yan understood neither he nor his uncle would attend the Shen mansion this time. Thus, in his caring and endearing manner, he'd asked Shen Ji Yun over, including his uncle and Uncle Yue too.

Shen Ji Yun had nearly accepted. The suggestion appealed strongly. Still, he hesitated to intrude. Regardless of the Bai family's hospitality or Uncle Wei Tian's kindness, it seemed presumptuous. Arriving with both uncles? That pushed boundaries. One could claim it wasn't intrusion as Luo Yan's partner. However, the Luo and Bai elders remained unaware of their bond. To them, nothing official existed.

He released a soft breath. With luck, come next year, he and Luo Yan might reveal their connection to their families. Well, all save the Shen side. Their views meant little to him.

Shen Ji Yun completed serving the fish and retreated to inspect the array. Plates occupied almost the entire surface. He positioned the braised pork belly near the ginger-scallion topped steamed fish, then adjusted the earlier chopped soy sauce chicken dish.

Cool appetizers occupied one edge. Such as pickled greens, garlic-tossed cucumber slices, seasoned lotus root, and soft tofu with soy and chili drizzle. A dish of fried veggies stood ready, next to a clay vessel of simmered mushrooms and abalone. Salted egg yolk-dusted butterflied shrimp graced a plate alongside a board of fine-cut preserved meats.

He centered the slow-cooked chicken broth pot and tilted its cover for steam release. A steamer basket contained taro cakes and lotus-wrapped sticky rice, while saucy longevity noodles shone on a broad platter. He added a tray of pomelo and fresh pears to balance the heavier flavors. Nearby, he piled mooncake boxes stuffed with lotus paste and salted yolks.

Shen Yi Mu reentered the kitchen and halted abruptly upon viewing the dish-laden counter. He stared at the bounty, absorbing the sight. "There's quite the feast here," he remarked in wonder. "Are we able to eat it all?"

Jiang Yue removed his apron and draped it across a chair back. "No need to fret, Brother Mu," he assured. "Any extras go into the refrigerator for tomorrow's meals."

"I'll share some with Yan Yan tomorrow too," Shen Ji Yun chimed in. Hence the ample quantities prepared.

Shen Yi Mu arched a brow at his nephew, a playful lilt entering his tone. "Ah, so that explains the huge amounts, does it?"

"Leave Xiao Yun be," Jiang Yue chided mildly, hoisting the steamed fish plate. His gentle rebuke held a touch of exasperation. "Simply assist in transporting these to the garden."

Shen Yi Mu performed an over-the-top bow, gesturing like a servant. "As you desire, my love."

Shen Ji Yun shook his head at his uncles' antics. Silently, he lifted the largest pot and headed to the rear garden.