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

Recently, the torment had become so unbearable that he fled to the rooftop garden every time a meal was served, desperate to avoid the scent of food from others.

Chiang Xiao gave a nod. "That is fine, but you must avoid overeating at the start. Monitor your feelings; if any discomfort arises, you must stop immediately. If you feel alright, then you may finish that half bowl."

"I understand, I understand."

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

"I know, I know."

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

To his surprise, the rice was remarkably sweet and fragrant without being hard, sliding down his throat with ease.

Furthermore, although the spread prepared by Chiang Xiao consisted entirely of vegetarian dishes, the natural essence of the vegetables had been perfectly preserved, resulting in a fresh and savory meal.

Once he began eating, he found it nearly impossible to pull away.

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

"That is enough; I warned you to practice self-control." Meng Xinian extended his hand. "Pass the chopsticks to me."

It had reached a point where he actually had to seize the bowl from the old man's grip.

Even Old Yang found his own indulgence hard to believe. As he surrendered the chopsticks to Meng Xinian, he couldn't stop reminiscing about the flavors of the meal.

"Chiang Xiao, your cooking is truly exceptional. Did you undergo professional training in the culinary arts?" Old Yang felt compelled to ask.

Chiang Xiao shook her head. "No, I simply incorporated a few medicinal herbs into the recipes. They enhance the flavor, which is why you find them so delicious."

"You added medicinal herbs?"

The realization dawned on Old Yang and his wife simultaneously.

"I have heard of your close ties with the National Medical Sage, Doctor Chen Baoshen. You must have picked up some techniques from him, then? It is said that Doctor Chen is a master of medicinal cuisine."

Chiang Xiao nodded at this suggestion. "Grandpa Chen has indeed provided me with a great deal of instruction."

She figured it was best to let Chen Baoshen take the credit.

"In my opinion, you have the potential to outshine your master," Old Yang remarked.

Chiang Xiao offered a small smile.

Outshine my master...

She didn't feel the need to elaborate further, as it was true that Chen Baoshen had taught her much.

As she moved to stand and clear the table, Meng Xinian placed a hand on her shoulder. "Stay seated. I will handle the cleaning and the dishes."

Aunt Yang attempted to rise and assist, but Meng Xinian intervened quickly. "Please stay where you are; I have it under control."

The Elder Couple Yang watched with astonishment as he moved efficiently through the chores.

"I have never witnessed the Meng lad being so hardworking."

Chiang Xiao pressed her lips together to hide a giggle.

"Actually, he has always been quite diligent."

At the very least, Meng Xinian was never one to be lazy when she was around.

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

Chiang Xiao smiled before turning to Old Yang with a question. "Are you acquainted with that girl from earlier?"

She was recalling the words of Chen Yujun. Was it true that every daughter of the Long Family secured a prestigious marriage?

If the Long Family acted as a bridge to turn the Gao Family and the Lu Family into indirect relatives, the alliance of these three families would pose a significant challenge for Li Hanzhong.

Naturally, such a development would also bring repercussions for Meng Xinian.

If those holding the reins of power were constantly placing obstacles in his path, no amount of talent would prevent his advancement from becoming an uphill battle.

She refused to let her husband endure such hardship.

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

What kind of joke was that?