Mystic Eyes: My Eyes Steal the Laws of Cultivation Chapter 597: Dinner by the Fireplace (4)

Gao Ziyue’s face turned red almost immediately, a blush spreading from her cheeks to her neck. Even after everything that had happened that night, the confessions, the birth of Djiva, and holding hands, she still could not get used to his sincerity.

It was as if he said the simplest and truest things without any effort, as if they were the most natural thing in the world.

But this time, instead of immediately looking away, she held Kyrian’s violet eyes, allowing the moment to linger. A small smile appeared on her lips, a smile that was more vulnerable than she would have liked to admit.

"Thank you."

Then, after a brief hesitation, her voice became a little softer.

"I also think you’re extremely handsome."

Kyrian blinked, surprised by the response. For a moment, his expression remained still as he processed her words.

"Hmm."

He tilted his head slightly, a gesture that was almost a nod.

"Thank you."

For some reason, hearing that from her brought a different kind of satisfaction, deeper than any compliment he had ever received. Perhaps because it was Gao Ziyue. Perhaps because, coming from her, those words carried a weight that no one else’s could.

And, for the first time that night, Kyrian thought that perhaps the Celestial Lirium was not the only reason his heart was beating a little faster.

At that moment, the kitchen door opened with a creak, and Lili appeared carrying the first tray, balancing it with the skill of someone accustomed to carrying heavy dishes.

"Excuse me!" She placed the first dish on the table, her movements quick and precise.

The aroma immediately filled the space, a fragrance so rich and inviting that it seemed to possess a physical presence. Kyrian looked at the food, his eyes taking in the golden ribs, the steam rising from their surface.

Gao Ziyue smiled, watching his reaction.

Lili placed the first dish on the table, and the smell of the roasted meat immediately spread through the space, a fragrant wave that seemed to embrace everyone present.

It was a deep and irresistible aroma, carried by the spiritual herbs used during the cooking. The surface of the ribs was golden, slightly caramelized, while a thin layer of sauce glistened over the meat, reflecting the lantern light.

Kyrian looked at the dish, his eyes capturing every detail. Then he looked at Lili, his expression showing sincere appreciation.

"That looks good."

Lili smiled, satisfied.

"Looks good? It is good. I’ve eaten this myself about a hundred times, and I’m still not tired of it."

Gao Ziyue chuckled softly.

"You shouldn’t doubt her. She knows every dish on this menu."

"I don’t doubt her." Kyrian picked up the utensils, his fingers wrapping around the metal with familiarity.

"I’m just observing."

"Then observe less and eat more." Gao Ziyue replied, a spark of amusement in her eyes.

Kyrian raised an eyebrow, a touch of challenge in his expression.

"You’re really excited about this food."

"Of course I am." She rested her hands on the table, leaning slightly forward.

"I brought you here specifically to try it. If you don’t like it, I’ll consider it a personal failure."

Lili returned a few moments later with the remaining dishes, balancing the tray with a skill that came from years of practice.

First came the golden wheat bread. It was large, round, and still steaming, its crust golden and crispy. When Lili placed it on the table, a small cloud of steam rose from its surface, carrying the aroma of fresh wheat and yeast. Beside it, a small bowl contained spiritual honey butter, its surface glowing with an amber hue.

Then came the stew. The ceramic bowl was deep, and the golden liquid inside was filled with small mushrooms of different shapes and sizes. Green leaves floated on the surface, releasing an earthy and pleasant aroma that mingled with the smell of the meat.

The grilled fish came next, its skin crispy and golden, while the sour fruit sauce formed a glossy layer over the white, tender flesh.

Finally came the grilled vegetables, their vibrant colors still shining under the light, and a small dish covered with a ceramic lid.

Lili carefully placed everything on the table, each dish finding its place with the precision of someone who knew the space by heart.

"And dessert." She lifted the lid with a theatrical gesture.

Small crystallized fruits appeared beneath it, covered in a translucent layer of spiritual sugar that glittered like tiny jewels. Each one was perfectly round, its surface smooth and glossy.

Gao Ziyue immediately smiled, a smile of pure satisfaction.

"Perfect."

Kyrian observed the table, his eyes moving over the abundance of food. There was enough food to feed several people, a profusion of colors and aromas that was almost overwhelming.

Which, to Kyrian, was definitely something perfect. He had plenty of food to eat.

She picked up a piece of bread, her gesture natural.

"Better to have too much than not enough."

Kyrian let out a small laugh, a sound that surprised even himself.

"I agree. But I don’t think there will be any left over."

Lili placed two jugs of water on the table, the crystal-clear liquid reflecting the lantern light. Then, before leaving, she discreetly looked at Gao Ziyue, a knowing smile on her lips.

"If you need anything, just call."

Gao Ziyue nodded, her voice warm.

"Thank you."

Lili walked away, but not before casting one last curious glance at Kyrian. Her eyes traveled over his face once more, as if trying to decipher a riddle. She was still trying to figure out who he was and what he meant to Gao Ziyue.

Gao Ziyue had never brought anyone there. Never. In all the years Lili had worked at the tavern, the young lady had always come alone, always sat in a corner, always kept her distance. And now, she had appeared holding the hand of an extremely handsome young man, with eyes that seemed to contain secrets.

Besides, the two of them had ordered an absurd amount of food. For two people. Who clearly weren’t starving.

She smiled to herself as she returned to the counter, a smile filled with speculation.