Back To The 80s: President's Doted Wife Chapter 1617 - 1618: Bonds Forged Through Food

A lavish hotel, chosen by the Cheng family for hosting Cheng Su’s parents and in-laws, presented a rather upscale setting. This opulence left the Cheng and Qi families, accustomed to a simpler life in the countryside, feeling a touch out of their element and uncertain.

They had lived for quite some time, yet the most elaborate dining experience they had encountered was at Cheng Su's modest restaurant, Joy Soon Loy. Compared to the grandeur of the current hotel, it was night and day.

A silent acknowledgment passed among them: Cheng Su's good fortune was truly remarkable.

Old Master Cheng, clutching Qi Xiaoqi fondly, couldn't help but inquire of the guests, "How are you finding Guangcheng's climate? Your hometown must also experience some chill, correct? It's quite humid here; I trust the local water and soil agree with you?"

"For the time being, it is quite bearable. It's warmer than our home," Father Cheng responded with a genial smile.

"Indeed, while you are here, please take the opportunity to relax and explore. Though Guangcheng may not boast endless mountains and rivers, it has its share of renowned attractions," Old Master Cheng elaborated.

"Oh, that sounds wonderful."

Old Master Cheng then turned to Cheng Su, inquiring about Qi Taiguo's absence. Cheng Su navigated his questions smoothly, ensuring the mood remained buoyant.

As a manager, impeccably dressed in a suit, approached to discuss the meal service, Cheng Yaozu deferred to Old Master Cheng for the final word.

"Let us commence with the meal; it is indeed time," Old Master Cheng announced. He then addressed the assembled company, "It is regrettable that the younger generation is absent today. The eldest is on a field excursion, the second is in the Capital, and our third is deeply engrossed in research, perpetually immersed in classes or the laboratory. Today, it's just a few of us enjoying a quiet repast. When Yaozu celebrates his significant milestone, they will be present to extend their greetings."

"There is no need for that; their pursuits are important," Father Cheng and his companions replied, a pleasant flutter of anxiety and a sense of being overwhelmed evident.

Old Master Cheng offered a gentle smile and resumed his playful teasing of Qi Xiaoqi.

Before long, a waiter arrived with the initial course: a soup. Each guest received a small bowl. Upon lifting the lid, they discovered a nourishing broth of winter worm summer grass stewed with lean meat. The clear, mild soup was incredibly appetizing, its aroma alone stimulating the appetite.

As subsequent dishes emerged, Old Master Cheng remarked, "Our regional cuisine favors delicate flavors; I fear it might be an adjustment for you. However, I've included two dishes with more robust profiles: braised lamb and spicy pan-fried shrimp. Please inform me if you desire additional servings of these."

"The flavors are indeed subtler than what we are accustomed to, but the freshness is remarkable," remarked Father Qi with a smile.

"When it comes to gastronomy, preserving the inherent taste is paramount, especially with seafood. Indeed, the very essence of 'seafood' lies in its freshness; excessive seasoning can easily mask its delicate nuances. Consider crabs, for instance; steaming them is arguably the finest method. While stir-frying can lend a pleasing aroma, it often overshadows the pristine flavor, which is a pity," Old Master Cheng imparted his extensive culinary wisdom.

Cheng Su's thoughts drifted back to her initial encounter with Old Master Cheng, an occasion also centered around food. She realized that without that serendipitous meeting at the food stall, this present gathering might never have occurred.

A soft laugh escaped her lips at the realization.

"What amuses you, my dear? Do you believe my words are incorrect?" Old Master Cheng playfully narrowed his eyes, feigning indignation.

A wave of apprehension washed over Father Cheng and the others, who were on the verge of interjecting when Cheng Su, chuckling, clarified, "Oh no, that's not it at all! You are a true connoisseur, Old Master, with an impeccable palate. I was merely recalling our first meeting last year, wasn't it over food?"

With that, Cheng Su picked up her chopsticks, spun the revolving tray, and personally placed a piece of white-cut chicken into his bowl. "It was thanks to that very chicken, shared over food, that we became acquainted, and I had the honor of becoming your goddaughter. Please, Old Master, do eat more."

Old Master Cheng paused, the memory of that past moment resurfacing. A sense of destiny settled upon him, and he erupted in hearty laughter, gesturing towards her as he addressed Father Cheng and the rest, "You see? It's not that I do not cherish her; this young lady certainly knows how to speak."

A collective sigh of relief emanated from Father Cheng and his company. They offered a few humble remarks, and the atmosphere settled into one of joyful harmony.