The False Heiress In The 1980s

9. An Unexpected Meeting

Lin Yuqi stood frozen for a moment as her gaze locked with Zhang Wei's. He stood up slowly, carrying the little girl, who blinked at her with wide eyes. The air in the room felt thick with anticipation, and Lin Yuqi's mind raced as she tried to take it all in.

Zhang Wei looked taciturn and serious, with his clean military haircut and an air of quiet authority.

At 190 cm, he towered over her, and though his expression remained unreadable, his presence was undeniable.

Before she could gather her thoughts, Mother Xia hurried forward, her voice nervous as she greeted Lin Yuqi. "Ah, Yuqi, you're back. Come, sit down. Let's have some tea."

Mother Xia looked like she was caught between relief and anxiety as her eyes darted between Lin Yuqi and Zhang Wei. She quickly handed Lin Yuqi a cup of boiled water, her hands trembling slightly.

"Yuqi," Mother Xia began, her voice uncertain.

"This... this is Zhang Wei. He was originally betrothed to Xia Ning before she left to live with the Lin family. But now... well, the betrothal falls on you."

Lin Yuqi could see how nervous Mother Xia was, her hands wringing together as if she feared how Lin Yuqi might react.

But Lin Yuqi remained calm, even offering a small smile.

She reached out and gently took Mother Xia's hands, squeezing them to reassure her. "It's all right, Mom. Let's talk about it after we've had our meal."

Mother Xia let out a quiet sigh of relief, clearly thankful for Lin Yuqi's calm response.

"All right, Yuqi," she said softly.

Lin Yuqi turned toward the kitchen and declared, "I'll make lunch first since we have a guest."

She glanced at Zhang Wei, who remained quiet but respectful. "It wouldn't be right if I didn't cook something special."

Mother Xia hesitated. "Are you sure, Yuqi? I can cook—"

Lin Yuqi shook her head. "No, Mom. You entertain our guest, and I'll take care of the cooking."

Reluctantly, Mother Xia nodded and stayed at the dining table, turning her attention to Zhang Wei while Lin Yuqi headed toward the kitchen.

But before she could step inside, Xia Tian appeared, his eyes wide with anticipation.

"Are you going to cook the river snails?" he asked excitedly, already imagining the savory taste.

His mouth practically watered as he leaned against the doorway, clearly hoping to sneak a taste.

"Yes," Lin Yuqi replied, a grin tugging at her lips. "But you're not helping me this time."

"Aw, come on!" Xia Tian groaned, his face falling like a disappointed child. "I'll be good, I promise! I'll—" But before he could finish, Lin Yuqi gave him a playful shove toward the door.

"Out!" she commanded, laughing. "Go help Mom with Zhang Wei. I'll call you when it's ready."

Xia Tian's shoulders slumped dramatically, but he sighed in defeat and shuffled out.

"Fine... but you'd better make extra. You know I'll eat a lot!" he called out, rubbing his stomach in anticipation. (￣～￣)

Lin Yuqi chuckled and shook her head. That boy could eat like a bottomless pit.

Once alone in the kitchen, Lin Yuqi finally relaxed.

She took a deep breath, then reached discreetly into her space, pulling out a few fresh ingredients: cucumbers, some additional spices, and a bit more rice.