As soon as I entered the palace, I was captivated. Celestial music and fragrant aromas filled the air. Since it was a festival, the palace was crowded, and I soon got separated from my family. But I wasn’t worried; it was a perfect opportunity to explore on my own. I picked up a plate of pastries and wandered to a quiet garden. Suddenly, I caught a whiff of an enticing smell – how could someone be cooking here?
I rounded a small house and saw someone cooking inside. He seemed only a few years older than me, sweat streaming down his forehead, but he looked satisfied. Following my mother’s teachings, I observed his appearance – he was as handsome as my brothers!
“Who are you?” he noticed me.
“Are you cooking? It smells so good!” I flashed a smile and walked towards him.
“Do you think so?” His eyes sparkled.
“Of course!” I nodded eagerly.
“Then I’ll treat you!” He brought the dish to me, looking expectantly.
“…” I took a bite and looked up, asking, “Do you want to hear the truth?”
“Of course!”
He nodded firmly, a hint of hesitation in his eyes.
“To be honest, your dish is missing something. It looks good and tastes okay, but it doesn’t make people exclaim in delight.” I spoke candidly, watching his expression freeze. Did I say something wrong? Though I hadn’t learned Mommy’s culinary skills, I knew how to critique a dish.
“What do you think is missing?” He seemed eager to learn.
“…” Prompted by his question, I pondered, resting my chin on my hand before saying, “Probably experience. My mommy says that to cook a dish well, you must have a deep foundation, just like practicing martial arts.”
“Is your mother a chef?”
“No way! My mommy is a great beauty!” I said proudly.
“What’s your name?” He suddenly looked at me intensely, making me feel slightly uncomfortable.
“I’m Jiang Xue Qian Ren! You can call me Lian Lian!”
“Lian Lian…” he murmured softly.
“Second Prince! Second Prince…” Palace maidens’ voices suddenly called from outside.
“I have to go!” He ran out, turning back to smile, “Lian Lian, remember, I’ll marry you in ten years!”
