“My parents and sisters all say my culinary skills are even better than the imperial chef’s.”
“Oh, Big Brother… Even if you were an imperial chef, that wouldn’t help…” I looked at Little Sister, mouthing why they hadn’t prepared him better. She mouthed back that they had.
It was clear Big Brother, nervous in front of the girl, had forgotten their talking points.
After a moment of silence, the girl broke it, saying, “Xiao Gongzi is quite unique. I usually enjoy reading poetry. Since you work in the Hanlin Academy, you must be well-read and eloquent.”
Big Brother sighed, recalling some unpleasant memory. “I hate reading. Transcribing those books makes me dizzy. What I really want is to open a restaurant and be the head chef.”
By this point, I was calm, drinking some cold tea, aware I needed to find the next match for Big Brother.
Little Sister declared, “Watch me!” She rushed into the adjacent room, with Song Sitian close behind. I could only watch as they bombarded the girl with praise about Big Brother. By the time I pulled them away, her face had turned pale, clearly frightened.
The result was predictable. The girl politely suggested that she didn’t think Big Brother was suitable.
Big Brother was taken home by Little Sister and Song Sitian for matchmaking education, while I remained in the private room to settle the bill.
Big Brother was a good man: kind, upright, filial, and a remarkable cook. Unfortunately, in Yan Feng City, these qualities pale in comparison to looks, wit, talent, or an impressive position. In this vain crowd, Big Brother would probably never find his destined partner.
Perhaps I was wrong to arrange matches for him; does such a woman even exist?
The waiter informed me my bill had been settled. I assumed it was An Jin coming to take me home and felt slightly excited. However, a man in a vermilion robe and feathered crown entered behind the waiter—it was East Palace’s Xia Zhiyuan.
I hurriedly bowed, but he stopped me with his fan. “No need for formalities, Madam An.”
