The White Olive Tree

Chapter 4

At eight o'clock in the evening, the food street was bustling with activity. The rain continued, but it couldn't dampen the enthusiasm of the people in Liangcheng for dining out.

Liangcheng becomes hot and humid in the summer, making it unbearable to stay indoors. The elderly prefer gathering at the alley entrance, rocking small stools, and fanning themselves to catch a breeze. 

The residents of the new community flock to the garden square. The lakes and riversides within the city are the best places to cool off. 

The younger crowd, being more energetic, likes to gather at open-air stalls to eat barbecue and drink beer, enjoying themselves until they break into a sweat.

Liangcheng offers a variety of delicious food, including local specialties like lake-fresh wild game, river fish and vegetables, and various snacks. Trying them all would take a month or two.

The food street is located by the river. As night falls, neon lights illuminate the street. The signs of 'Jiangyu Restaurant' and 'Crayfish' light up the night sky in various colors, and waiters rush to the street to attract customers.

After parking the car, Song Ran got out, and the drizzle had stopped.

The waiter at the lobster restaurant was arranging outdoor tables and chairs.

After a brief discussion, they decided to sit outside. It was comfortable with the breeze blowing after the rain.

Song Ran ordered three large pots of spicy crayfish, lotus root pork rib soup, stir-fried okra with green peppers, dry-fried tofu with Chinese spinach, radish stewed fish head, and a bunch of barbecue.

Xiao Qiu stopped her and said, "Don't order too much, we might not finish it later."

Xiao Dong laughed and said, "Did you get a bonus on your business trip? You're so generous."

Song Ran said, "If we can't finish it, we can always take it home."

It's awkward when treating colleagues to a meal if the dishes ordered are too few.

Xiao Xia said, "No need to go overboard. This is enough."

"Okay." Song Ran closed the menu. "Let's start with these, and if it's not enough, we can always add later."

"Sounds good."

Everyone gathered around a table. Although they communicated a lot during work, private gatherings were rare. At this moment, they stared at each other, exchanged silly smiles, and the air fell silent for a few seconds.

Xiao Dong brought up a topic, "Liangcheng has opened up its residency policy, and now housing prices are going to rise again."

Shen Bei adjusted her lipstick and casually said, "I've never paid attention to housing prices."

Xiao Chun added, "Of course, you don't need to worry. You locals have houses, and you can spend your salary however you want. No worries about anything."

Song Ran shook her head, "Even locals can't afford houses."

Xiao Qiu said, "You don't need to worry. Among our new journalists, you have the strongest abilities. Promotion and a raise are just a matter of time for you."

Before Song Ran could respond, Shen Bei tossed her lipstick into her Chanel bag and asked, "Did you order drinks?"

Song Ran replied, "Yes. Two pitchers of watermelon juice."

Soon, the spicy crayfish arrived, and everyone eagerly dug in wearing gloves.

Xiao Xia praised, "Honestly, The East Before the War is really good. I love watching it. Ran Ran, I noticed before that whether it's the articles you write or the records you make, they seem ordinary, but they always attract people to read."