I Have 10 Trillion Dollars only Usable For Simping Chapter 2339 - 1487: I Can Too

Four individuals do not necessarily constitute a lively gathering.

However, is a boisterous celebration a requisite for every birthday?

At Yang Qinghua's standing, orchestrating an extensively celebratory event would be trivially simple, should she desire it.

Exuberance is not a universal aspiration.

Alignment in spirit is the true essence.

Naturally.

Boss Jiang occupies a rather peculiar position within this circle, given the others share decades of camaraderie, while his inclusion is, to put it mildly, recent.

Yet, a certain adage holds true.

One's status is self-determined in the grand theater of life.

Whether an atmosphere feels awkward is a matter of personal perception.

The assembly of the Cao siblings and Yang Qinghua transcends a mere private function; it borders on a familial reunion.

But as the person whose birthday is being celebrated wisely noted.

His presence is pivotal!

Would this current ambiance of joy and harmony exist without him?

"The culinary delights are prepared; please partake."

This establishment, a "humble eatery," extends its hospitality equally to all patrons, or perhaps Yang Qinghua has frequented it often without disclosing her true identity.

It is said that within the Imperial City, a casual deflection could easily dislodge a high-ranking official; however, this locale is situated many miles from the capital's heart.

Were I the proprietor of this establishment, I would scarcely anticipate the arrival of a dignitary for a meal.

Beef hotpot.

Pan-seared white fish.

Braised chicken and pig intestines.

...

No rare delicacies are featured, merely the commonplace fare found gracing household tables.

"Pray tell, what are these small eggs?"

Jiang Chen, feeling entirely uninhibited, directed his gaze toward the table, captivated by the uniquely hued, diminutive eggs.

"Why not sample one and discover its nature for yourself?"

With both her elder brother and sister in attendance, Princess Cao exhibited considerable tact, refraining from any display of aloofness; conversely, she warmly initiated the exchange.

Jiang Chen, picking up his chopsticks, retrieved one of the eggs and placed it in his mouth. He chewed deliberately, discerning a pleasantly chewy texture and a subtle creamy undertone, though he couldn't be certain if this perception was influenced by the earlier cake.

"And how do they taste?"

Yang Qinghua inquired.

"I can't quite discern the flavor."

"Have you never encountered turtle eggs before?"

Cao Jinse interjected.

Jiang Chen perceived that her remark was not intended as a mere pleasantry; prior to Teacher Cao's arrival, she had not exhibited this particular demeanor.

Much like himself.

Princess Cao was making a concerted effort to inject a livelier spirit into the gathering.

Hmm.

Navigating this situation, her role as a sister must surely present challenges.

"These are indeed turtle eggs?"

He was not feigning ignorance; Jiang Chen had, in fact, never partaken in soft-shelled turtle eggs.

The texture seemed somewhat rustic.

"If you are unfamiliar with them, do consume a few more. They are remarkably fortifying," Yang Qinghua teased.

Hmm.

He certainly needed to fortify himself.

Despite successfully departing Fujiwara Reiki's private residence that night, he was left profoundly depleted.

Jiang Chen, with renewed enthusiasm, procured two additional eggs.

"Professor Cao, shall we indulge in a drink together today?"

Yang Qinghua directed her attention toward Cao Xiugo.

The seating arrangement was quite deliberate.

A certain individual was positioned directly opposite Princess Cao.

As the birthday celebrant, Yang Qinghua found herself seated across from Cao Xiugo.

"As today is your occasion, the choice is entirely yours."

Unburdened.

Graceful.

His gentle smile exuded the aura of a true gentleman.

Had Jiang Chen not been privy to their shared history, he might easily have believed them to be merely amicable childhood companions.

"Very well."

Yang Qinghua happily declared, "Then, let us have some beer."

"Allow me to retrieve it."

Jiang Chen volunteered, rising and making his way toward the exit.

While he was procuring the beverages, Yang Qinghua turned her gaze to Cao Jinse, remarking, "He has been most courteous; let us move past previous disagreements."

This pronouncement.

Was not precisely intended for Cao Jinse's ears alone.

Indeed, it seemed more likely to be a subtle message directed at Cao Xiugo.

It implied that Jiang Chen's invitation today was not solely a strategic maneuver; otherwise, how could she openly advocate for him?

Whether Princess Cao has truly relinquished past grievances remains a question for another time.

One ought to recall.

The pivotal "three-day appointment" was, in reality, established between Cao Xiugo and another party.

But what transpired subsequently?

The individual in question not only failed to respond.

But today marked their very first encounter since that scheduled appointment.

As the elder sibling, Cao Xiugo's restraint from immediate anger, or even a hint of displeasure, was remarkably composed.

"I offered no such sentiment."

Cao Jinse presented an image of innocence, stating, "I should express my gratitude to him; were it not for his involvement, my promotion and subsequent salary increase would not have materialized so swiftly."

Was this sarcasm?

Not in the slightest.

It was a clear, albeit veiled, endorsement of the gentleman currently fetching the beer.

Yang Qinghua offered a knowing smile and responded, "Such profound thanks are unnecessary. Your inherent capabilities remain the primary contributing factor."

"That may not entirely be the case."

Cao Jinse turned her head towards her unexpressive brother, stating, "My brother is also quite capable, yet he still hasn't achieved promotion to a full professor. Qinghua, you just referred to him as a professor, but that's not entirely accurate."

Even if it was a coordinated effort, Yang Qinghua, as a participant, couldn't help but chuckle. She cast a glance at the man whose eyes and brows conveyed a sense of helplessness and then, without mercy, remarked, "It's not the institution's fault your brother hasn't been promoted. It's simply because your brother... lacks ambition."

Cao Jinse readily nodded in agreement, adding, "Precisely. If I were in my brother's shoes, I might have been appointed as a dean by now."

Cao Xiugo finally reached his limit, interjecting, "Enough with the teasing. Let's refrain from excessive boasting."

"In what way have I been bragging?"

"How was that teasing?"

The two women posed their questions simultaneously.

Indeed, it was true.

If it weren't for a certain individual, a male like Cao Xiugo likely wouldn't have made an appearance.

Just then.

Jiang Chen returned, carrying a case of beer.

Such an important figure personally carrying beer himself – truly, he displayed no airs whatsoever.

"Thank you for your hard work,"

Yang Qinghua expressed.

Someone was indeed indispensable.

The atmosphere in the room was instantly transformed.

Jiang Chen offered a faint smile, personally carrying and opening the beer. The very first bottle, not offered to the day's birthday honoree, but perhaps for convenience's sake, was handed to Cao Xiugo, who was closest to the entrance.