The Long Road Ahead: C08
Squirrel Fish
This novel was posted on cntranslations [dot] com, by anasiana. If you're not reading it there, you get what you get ￣へ￣)
After this incident, things between the two were no longer as awkward as they had been earlier. Well... actually, Shan Haiming was more or less just like he had been as Xiao Ning was the one whose heart had relaxed a bit. All the things which had occurred in the past few days had made his heart feel heavy, but because there was someone there with him, now it all felt a bit lighter. Every now and again, he would say a few words to Shan Haiming. So like this, they had continued watching the television, saying a few words then none, as the afternoon passed them by.
He quickly shut off the stove, scoping out the overdone fish. He was annoyed, but his face barely showed it. Sporting a slight frown, pursed lips and a clenched fist, he plated the fish, then took a moment to think. After which, he picked up the plate and headed to a nearby trash bin.
Within the time it took him to be done with the fish, the half-filled pot of oil had heated up. While he slid the fish into the oil, Xiao Ning began chopping the potatoes and radishes.
To the contrary, Shan Haiming put down the jug beside him and bent down to stroke the dog's golden fur. His hands were skilful as he rubbed its neck, and the golden retriever seemed quite comfortable with his petting. Its head kept arching and rubbing against him, incessantly sniffing Shan Haiming's face, what else could this be called but joy?
Shan Haiming then looked at his watch, "Isn't it time to eat?"
Taking the bags in Xiao Ning's hand, Shan Haiming then decisively instructed, "Just look it up on your phone."
"Oh." Xiao Ning was never one to feel hungry quickly, so upon realising he said, "Let's go out to eat then."
After this incident, things between the two were no longer as awkward as they had been earlier. Well... actually, Shan Haiming was more or less just like he had been as Xiao Ning was the one whose heart had relaxed a bit. All the things which had occurred in the past few days had made his heart feel heavy, but because there was someone there with him, now it all felt a bit lighter. Every now and again, he would say a few words to Shan Haiming. So like this, they had continued watching the television, saying a few words then none, as the afternoon passed them by.
Xiao Ning felt a bit awkward, and so said nothing on their way back. Once they got to the apartment, he silently entered, following behind as Shan Haiming led the way to the kitchen, who then said, "Recipe."
Having been stunned by the act for a few seconds, Xiao Ning soon abruptly withdrew his hand.
Shan Haiming looked at him curiously, asking, "Why do you want to go eat out?"
Originally, Xiao Ning wanted to say that wasting food wasn't a great thing to do, but once his eyes fell and took in all the smeared seasonings covering Shan Haiming's clothes the word dancing on the tip of his tongue changed. "I'm pained because you went through all this trouble for a really long time just now."
Xiao Ning pursed his lips, replying, "Because only the leftovers I brought back from lunch are in the fridge."
That smile of his held no ill intent, more akin to one of a half-grown boy who just found himself a playmate as he stared at Xiao Ning's dazed expression. But then, out of nowhere, the look on Shan Haiming's face changed. He turned around in a flurry to see the fish he had frying in the pot whose colour was far from good, making it clear to see it had been overcooked.
"You don't have any groceries in there?" Shan Haiming now stood up and straightened his clothes, saying, "Let's go out and buy some to bring back."
Xiao Ning: "...I can't make that."
"I'm the one who bought it, so why are you so pained?" Shan Haiming sighed.
Shan Haiming looked up at him, replying, "Do I look like like I can?"
"You don't have any groceries in there?" Shan Haiming now stood up and straightened his clothes, saying, "Let's go out and buy some to bring back."
Squirrel Fish
He asked, but the potato-peeling Xiao Ning did not give him a reply.
What on earth have chickens ever done to you? Were you a weasel in your last life or something?
You want to do this yourself?
"What are you doing?" Xiao Ning who had finally regained his senses cried out to stop him.
At this, Xiao Ning couldn't help but chuckle. These passing days of him going on whims, doing whatever comes to mind, already gave him the feeling that so long as he was happy, it was fine.
Xiao Ning: "...that doesn't sound like something home-cooked either."
For some unknown reason, hearing his words, Xiao Ning felt a rage rise within him. It felt as though all the things he did his best to suppress over all those years were just scratched open by Shan Haiming's offhanded comment. "Not everyone is like you with nothing to be afraid of. What do you even know?"
Holding the fish in one hand, and a large bottle of oil in his right, the Second Young Master Shan then announced, "Let's go home."
Hearing this, Xiao Ning's expression became unsightly, his mouth moving to open but again sealed shut.
N/A
Xiao Ning's mouth fell open a bit, he had never expected Shan Haiming would do such a thing. Basically, he and Lu Yan never cooked and always ate out. Even if they were at home, they would still mostly eat take-out. Secretly, he also held the belief that bachelors just weren't great cooks. "But there are no seasonings here either..."
Xiao Ning: "...that doesn't sound like something home-cooked either."
The kitchen did have pots and pans, but apart from those, the cupboards were bare. By this time, Shan Haiming had already made his way to the door, replying, "We'll just buy some while we're there."
At this, Xiao Ning couldn't help but chuckle. These passing days of him going on whims, doing whatever comes to mind, already gave him the feeling that so long as he was happy, it was fine.
Suddenly lifting his head to look at Xiao Ning, Shan Haiming asked, "Why are you hiding so far away?"
黄焖鸡: huáng mèn jī: [lit.] yellow braised chicken is a braised chicken dish made with chicken (whole or legs and thighs), shiitake mushrooms, bell peppers, potatoes, sweet bean paste, ginger, chillis... it's stewed in burnt sugar and soy sauce in added. It's not really a hard dish to make, but it's probably intimidating if cooking isn't your thing. This is stuff you usually get from a restaurant. Huangmenji pic. Huangmenji video [] 白斩鸡: bái zhǎn jī: white cut/chopped chicken is a Cantonese dish made by boiling a whole chicken in a broth that isn't seasoned with much to preserve the natural flavour of the chicken (ginger, spring onion and cooking wine), then after boiling on low heat to make the meat nice and soft [don't forget to use the three dip method~], then it's soaked in an ice bath to relax the skin, then chopped into pieces and served with a dipping sauce. Baizhanji pic Baizhanji video here[]松鼠鱼: sōng shǔ yú: squirrel fish: A whole fish is de-boned and beheaded and filleted (without separating the tail), with flesh deep lattice forming cuts made on each fillet. apply an egg wash then flour and fry. Smear that sucker in a sweet and sour sauce and you're done! Squirrel fish video []iana: these two cooking together is one of my favourite things (*˘︶˘*) Just knowing how far south their efforts are going tickles my wicked little heart ψ(｀∇´)ψ
At this, Xiao Ning couldn't help but chuckle. These passing days of him going on whims, doing whatever comes to mind, already gave him the feeling that so long as he was happy, it was fine.
The oil crackled and popped, while the chopping knife emitted a dull thud. Xiao Ning's thoughts in that moment had drifted far to the beyond.
Suddenly lifting his head to look at Xiao Ning, Shan Haiming asked, "Why are you hiding so far away?"
Xiao Ning looked at him in return, stating, "I can't do it either."
Neither of Xiao Ning's hands were empty either, as he idly followed from behind. When they got back to the apartment district, a golden-haired creature rushed towards them with glee. It was most likely attracted by the scent of meat coming from the bags Xiao Ning and Shan Haiming carried, as it now circled them. But Xiao Ning wasn't too happy when he saw the golden-haired creature, though. So, right at that moment, he had quietly shifted a few steps off to the other side.
That smile of his held no ill intent, more akin to one of a half-grown boy who just found himself a playmate as he stared at Xiao Ning's dazed expression. But then, out of nowhere, the look on Shan Haiming's face changed. He turned around in a flurry to see the fish he had frying in the pot whose colour was far from good, making it clear to see it had been overcooked.
Xiao Ning looked at him in return, stating, "I can't do it either."
Suddenly lifting his head to look at Xiao Ning, Shan Haiming asked, "Why are you hiding so far away?"
Besides, Xiao Ning had nothing to do that afternoon, and he reckoned if he didn't handle Shan Haiming well enough, then tomorrow he'd also have nothing to do either. The new neighbourhood district he currently lived in was a good way away from civilization and hadn't been built that long ago. So the necessary supporting facilities haven't been adequately established. All there was, was a small unplanned marketplace, one which when Shan Haiming stood in, gave the feeling of him seeming like he didn't quite match. So while looking at such a scene, Xiao Ning felt as if he could laugh. Shan Haiming was standing next to a fish vendor's stand, a picky expression on his face while staring at the fish flopping around in a large plastic basin. He then pointed to one of the fish, prompting the vendor to swiftly grab a plastic bag and catch it. Now while using his fingers like a hook to hold the bagged fish in front of him, he inspected it with brows knitted, making one have no idea what he was possibly thinking.
Shan Haiming's brows lifted, but the dog's owner was now in front of them, still out of breath, "Charlie, why did you run off so quickly... huh! Are you guys alright?"
Within the time it took him to be done with the fish, the half-filled pot of oil had heated up. While he slid the fish into the oil, Xiao Ning began chopping the potatoes and radishes.
You want to do this yourself?
At his words, Xiao Ning sighed internally, but much to his surprise he wasn't feeling upset, or even mad. His tone even had an upbeat ring to it as he said, "I'll eat it then."
That guy really did not seem to care one bit about what he did. So while crinkling his brows lightly, Xiao Ning pulled out his phone and plopped it into that guy's hand then went to busy himself washing the vegetables. When it came to stuff like cooking, Xiao Ning could practically be considered a novice. He knew he had to strip the veggies, and casually went through the motions, but had no idea how much he had to pull off.
Xiao Ning bought various common seasonings and condiments from the other side then walked over, bag in hand, as he asked, "You bought a fish? How are we going to eat it, though?"
Feeling as though nothing he said at that moment would be right, Xiao Ning sealed his lips tightly, standing on guard as he looked at Shan Haiming. Unbothered, as always, Shan Haiming simply pulled out a tissue and handed it to Xiao Ning, but after the other took it he remarked with a grin, "Tastes like potato."
At his words, Xiao Ning sighed internally, but much to his surprise he wasn't feeling upset, or even mad. His tone even had an upbeat ring to it as he said, "I'll eat it then."
To the contrary, Shan Haiming put down the jug beside him and bent down to stroke the dog's golden fur. His hands were skilful as he rubbed its neck, and the golden retriever seemed quite comfortable with his petting. Its head kept arching and rubbing against him, incessantly sniffing Shan Haiming's face, what else could this be called but joy?
"How would I know?" Shan Haiming lowered his own hand and spoke while looking at the groceries Xiao Ning was holding. Xiao Ning was left speechless at that moment but then he asked, "But aren't you going to cook it?"
But a burst of sharp pain yanked these straying thoughts back to reality, as his knife stopped, his hand moving away, to discover his finger was slowly being drenched in blood.
The golden retriever now went back to rubbing against its owner, circling around them before panting to again look up at Shan Haiming. Seeing this, he smiled and said to it, "Bye."
He asked, but the potato-peeling Xiao Ning did not give him a reply.
Neither of Xiao Ning's hands were empty either, as he idly followed from behind. When they got back to the apartment district, a golden-haired creature rushed towards them with glee. It was most likely attracted by the scent of meat coming from the bags Xiao Ning and Shan Haiming carried, as it now circled them. But Xiao Ning wasn't too happy when he saw the golden-haired creature, though. So, right at that moment, he had quietly shifted a few steps off to the other side.
Then in the next, Xiao Ning's left hand was already pulled towards Shan Haiming, as he lowered his head, capturing Xiao Ning's fingertip with his lip while the warm softness of his tongue pressed against his wound, moving little by little, as it sucked.
Xiao Ning looked at him in return, stating, "I can't do it either."
At this, Xiao Ning couldn't help but chuckle. These passing days of him going on whims, doing whatever comes to mind, already gave him the feeling that so long as he was happy, it was fine.
Shan Haiming looked up at him, replying, "Do I look like like I can?"
Then in the next, Xiao Ning's left hand was already pulled towards Shan Haiming, as he lowered his head, capturing Xiao Ning's fingertip with his lip while the warm softness of his tongue pressed against his wound, moving little by little, as it sucked.
Shan Haiming looked at him curiously, asking, "Why do you want to go eat out?"
Having been stunned by the act for a few seconds, Xiao Ning soon abruptly withdrew his hand.
Under these circumstances he had little choice, so Xiao Ning dejectedly took out his phone and searched online for recipes while in the market. Then out of politeness he also asked, "Is there anything else you'd like to eat?"
After he was done washing, he realised he had no bowl to put them into, so he went to retrieve one from the cabinet. However, those dishes up until now had only been used when Lu Yan's mother had come over, meaning they were currently covered in a thin layer of dust. So, due to this, he took them over to the sink to wash them one by one.
Suddenly lifting his head to look at Xiao Ning, Shan Haiming asked, "Why are you hiding so far away?"
At his words, Xiao Ning sighed internally, but much to his surprise he wasn't feeling upset, or even mad. His tone even had an upbeat ring to it as he said, "I'll eat it then."
If not, why did you say we'll be cooking at home?
It was probably a coincidence, and Xiao Ning wanted to let out a bitter laugh. How could his guess be so spot on? However, Xiao Ning replied, "No, it's too difficult. We won't be able to make it well."
Xiao Ning looked at him in return, stating, "I can't do it either."
To the contrary, Shan Haiming put down the jug beside him and bent down to stroke the dog's golden fur. His hands were skilful as he rubbed its neck, and the golden retriever seemed quite comfortable with his petting. Its head kept arching and rubbing against him, incessantly sniffing Shan Haiming's face, what else could this be called but joy?
Taking the bags in Xiao Ning's hand, Shan Haiming then decisively instructed, "Just look it up on your phone."
"You're bleeding." Shan Haiming uttered, causing Xiao Ning to unconsciously turn to face him, and notice him staring at him for a moment, before letting out a "tch" and stating, "Such a slow reaction."
Under these circumstances he had little choice, so Xiao Ning dejectedly took out his phone and searched online for recipes while in the market. Then out of politeness he also asked, "Is there anything else you'd like to eat?"
In response, Xiao Ning: "...heheh."
Then following this, to Xiao Ning he simply said, "Let's go."
Taking the bags in Xiao Ning's hand, Shan Haiming then decisively instructed, "Just look it up on your phone."
"Are you also afraid of pain?" Shan Haiming smacked his lips while giving him a look as if he wanted to smile.
Shan Haiming stared at him, his gaze soon falling before he, rather nonchalantly, turned to finish his task, then said, "As you wish then. I'm not going to eat it, though."
Shan Haiming thought it over seriously for a while, then replied: "HuangmenjiT/n: braised chicken—with potato. A whole chicken or legs and thighs are chopped then fried/boiled before being caramelised with burnt sugar before being braised with seasonings, mushrooms, potatoes, etc. and soy sauce.[1]."
Shan Haiming, on the other hand, was currently holding onto a cleaver in a trance. He then proceeded to cut the fish open, while craning his head to look at the recipe from the phone laying on the counter, reading through the steps. "We don't need to use this much stuff, right?"
After this incident, things between the two were no longer as awkward as they had been earlier. Well... actually, Shan Haiming was more or less just like he had been as Xiao Ning was the one whose heart had relaxed a bit. All the things which had occurred in the past few days had made his heart feel heavy, but because there was someone there with him, now it all felt a bit lighter. Every now and again, he would say a few words to Shan Haiming. So like this, they had continued watching the television, saying a few words then none, as the afternoon passed them by.
In all honesty, Xiao Ning had no clue how to make any of those dishes. But when he bought the seasonings earlier, he saw there was curry there too. Thinking he could handle that much, he summoned up his courage and gave a nod. "Alright then. But what about the fish?"
Xiao Ning: "...I can't make that."
He asked, but the potato-peeling Xiao Ning did not give him a reply.
If not, why did you say we'll be cooking at home?
"You're bleeding." Shan Haiming uttered, causing Xiao Ning to unconsciously turn to face him, and notice him staring at him for a moment, before letting out a "tch" and stating, "Such a slow reaction."
Then in the next, Xiao Ning's left hand was already pulled towards Shan Haiming, as he lowered his head, capturing Xiao Ning's fingertip with his lip while the warm softness of his tongue pressed against his wound, moving little by little, as it sucked.
To the contrary, Shan Haiming put down the jug beside him and bent down to stroke the dog's golden fur. His hands were skilful as he rubbed its neck, and the golden retriever seemed quite comfortable with his petting. Its head kept arching and rubbing against him, incessantly sniffing Shan Haiming's face, what else could this be called but joy?
Shan Haiming thought it over once more, replying, "Cantonese poached chickenT/n: White cut chicken, or Baizhanji. A whole chicken is boiled with ginger and spring onions then chopped and served with a dipping sauce.[2]."
"I'm the one who bought it, so why are you so pained?" Shan Haiming sighed.
Xiao Ning: "...that doesn't sound like something home-cooked either."
Staring at him curiously, Shan Haiming asked, "That must be your favourite. Do you want to make that one?"
黄焖鸡: huáng mèn jī: [lit.] yellow braised chicken is a braised chicken dish made with chicken (whole or legs and thighs), shiitake mushrooms, bell peppers, potatoes, sweet bean paste, ginger, chillis... it's stewed in burnt sugar and soy sauce in added. It's not really a hard dish to make, but it's probably intimidating if cooking isn't your thing. This is stuff you usually get from a restaurant. Huangmenji pic. Huangmenji video [] 白斩鸡: bái zhǎn jī: white cut/chopped chicken is a Cantonese dish made by boiling a whole chicken in a broth that isn't seasoned with much to preserve the natural flavour of the chicken (ginger, spring onion and cooking wine), then after boiling on low heat to make the meat nice and soft [don't forget to use the three dip method~], then it's soaked in an ice bath to relax the skin, then chopped into pieces and served with a dipping sauce. Baizhanji pic Baizhanji video here[]松鼠鱼: sōng shǔ yú: squirrel fish: A whole fish is de-boned and beheaded and filleted (without separating the tail), with flesh deep lattice forming cuts made on each fillet. apply an egg wash then flour and fry. Smear that sucker in a sweet and sour sauce and you're done! Squirrel fish video []iana: these two cooking together is one of my favourite things (*˘︶˘*) Just knowing how far south their efforts are going tickles my wicked little heart ψ(｀∇´)ψ
"What are you doing?" Xiao Ning who had finally regained his senses cried out to stop him.
Shan Haiming's face didn't look so good right then, with him going on to suggest, "Curry chicken."
In all honesty, Xiao Ning had no clue how to make any of those dishes. But when he bought the seasonings earlier, he saw there was curry there too. Thinking he could handle that much, he summoned up his courage and gave a nod. "Alright then. But what about the fish?"
Besides, Xiao Ning had nothing to do that afternoon, and he reckoned if he didn't handle Shan Haiming well enough, then tomorrow he'd also have nothing to do either. The new neighbourhood district he currently lived in was a good way away from civilization and hadn't been built that long ago. So the necessary supporting facilities haven't been adequately established. All there was, was a small unplanned marketplace, one which when Shan Haiming stood in, gave the feeling of him seeming like he didn't quite match. So while looking at such a scene, Xiao Ning felt as if he could laugh. Shan Haiming was standing next to a fish vendor's stand, a picky expression on his face while staring at the fish flopping around in a large plastic basin. He then pointed to one of the fish, prompting the vendor to swiftly grab a plastic bag and catch it. Now while using his fingers like a hook to hold the bagged fish in front of him, he inspected it with brows knitted, making one have no idea what he was possibly thinking.
Having been stunned by the act for a few seconds, Xiao Ning soon abruptly withdrew his hand.
Xiao Ning: "..."
Xiao Ning wasn't a person accustomed to bad-mouthing, but the look in his eyes was a bit hard to hide, thus allowing his true feelings to be easily shown. Shan Haiming had no reaction at first, but once he noticed the other's pursed lips, with a frown, he took the phone and typed in a name. After staring at the screen for half a minute, he then dragged Xiao Ning along to buy the required ingredients. So following this round, the time for dinner had arrived.
For some unknown reason, hearing his words, Xiao Ning felt a rage rise within him. It felt as though all the things he did his best to suppress over all those years were just scratched open by Shan Haiming's offhanded comment. "Not everyone is like you with nothing to be afraid of. What do you even know?"
Under these circumstances he had little choice, so Xiao Ning dejectedly took out his phone and searched online for recipes while in the market. Then out of politeness he also asked, "Is there anything else you'd like to eat?"
Taking the bags in Xiao Ning's hand, Shan Haiming then decisively instructed, "Just look it up on your phone."
The kitchen did have pots and pans, but apart from those, the cupboards were bare. By this time, Shan Haiming had already made his way to the door, replying, "We'll just buy some while we're there."
After he was done washing, he realised he had no bowl to put them into, so he went to retrieve one from the cabinet. However, those dishes up until now had only been used when Lu Yan's mother had come over, meaning they were currently covered in a thin layer of dust. So, due to this, he took them over to the sink to wash them one by one.
In all honesty, Xiao Ning had no clue how to make any of those dishes. But when he bought the seasonings earlier, he saw there was curry there too. Thinking he could handle that much, he summoned up his courage and gave a nod. "Alright then. But what about the fish?"
What on earth have chickens ever done to you? Were you a weasel in your last life or something?
Under these circumstances he had little choice, so Xiao Ning dejectedly took out his phone and searched online for recipes while in the market. Then out of politeness he also asked, "Is there anything else you'd like to eat?"
In response to this, Shan Haiming scoffed, countering, "If you can't cook it properly, then you can't. Don't lump me in there with you."
Noticing a girl wearing a tracksuit running towards them with a leash in hand, Shan Haiming gave the dog a pat on its head before again picking up the bottle of oil beside him then chided, "Whatever it is you want to say, just say it. What are scared of? Can't you speak?"
In all honesty, Xiao Ning had no clue how to make any of those dishes. But when he bought the seasonings earlier, he saw there was curry there too. Thinking he could handle that much, he summoned up his courage and gave a nod. "Alright then. But what about the fish?"
Having been stunned by the act for a few seconds, Xiao Ning soon abruptly withdrew his hand.
Neither of Xiao Ning's hands were empty either, as he idly followed from behind. When they got back to the apartment district, a golden-haired creature rushed towards them with glee. It was most likely attracted by the scent of meat coming from the bags Xiao Ning and Shan Haiming carried, as it now circled them. But Xiao Ning wasn't too happy when he saw the golden-haired creature, though. So, right at that moment, he had quietly shifted a few steps off to the other side.
"What are you doing?" Xiao Ning who had finally regained his senses cried out to stop him.
Shan Haiming just so happened to have gone next to him, taking a look at the results on his screen before casually remarking, "Don't you like fish? I'll handle this part myself."
"You don't have any groceries in there?" Shan Haiming now stood up and straightened his clothes, saying, "Let's go out and buy some to bring back."
Having been stunned by the act for a few seconds, Xiao Ning soon abruptly withdrew his hand.
Staring at him curiously, Shan Haiming asked, "That must be your favourite. Do you want to make that one?"
Xiao Ning's typing stopped.
Shan Haiming looked up at him, replying, "Do I look like like I can?"
Shan Haiming's hand rubbed the dog's head, his gaze fixed on Xiao Ning when a sudden laugh escaped him, "You like sweets and are afraid of dogs... are you a kid?"
Xiao Ning: "...I can't make that."
He asked, but the potato-peeling Xiao Ning did not give him a reply.
But again, Xiao Ning from beside them, took a step away from once more.
Staring at him curiously, Shan Haiming asked, "That must be your favourite. Do you want to make that one?"
Xiao Ning's mouth fell open a bit, he had never expected Shan Haiming would do such a thing. Basically, he and Lu Yan never cooked and always ate out. Even if they were at home, they would still mostly eat take-out. Secretly, he also held the belief that bachelors just weren't great cooks. "But there are no seasonings here either..."
Shan Haiming's face didn't look so good right then, with him going on to suggest, "Curry chicken."
Shan Haiming looked at him curiously, asking, "Why do you want to go eat out?"
At his words, Xiao Ning sighed internally, but much to his surprise he wasn't feeling upset, or even mad. His tone even had an upbeat ring to it as he said, "I'll eat it then."
"How would I know?" Shan Haiming lowered his own hand and spoke while looking at the groceries Xiao Ning was holding. Xiao Ning was left speechless at that moment but then he asked, "But aren't you going to cook it?"
It was probably a coincidence, and Xiao Ning wanted to let out a bitter laugh. How could his guess be so spot on? However, Xiao Ning replied, "No, it's too difficult. We won't be able to make it well."
Shan Haiming's hand rubbed the dog's head, his gaze fixed on Xiao Ning when a sudden laugh escaped him, "You like sweets and are afraid of dogs... are you a kid?"
Shan Haiming's face didn't look so good right then, with him going on to suggest, "Curry chicken."
This was a very new experience for Xiao Ning, so he lifted his finger to take a good look.
"What are you doing?" Xiao Ning who had finally regained his senses cried out to stop him.
"It's inedible." Shan Haiming thought it was baffling this was something Xiao Ning couldn't see. Yet the other man still snatched the plate from him, then scrutinized it for a bit. "It's not that bad, you only cooked half, so just finish the rest since it's a whole fish."
This was a very new experience for Xiao Ning, so he lifted his finger to take a good look.
Xiao Ning: "...I can't make that."
In response to this, Shan Haiming scoffed, countering, "If you can't cook it properly, then you can't. Don't lump me in there with you."
For some unknown reason, hearing his words, Xiao Ning felt a rage rise within him. It felt as though all the things he did his best to suppress over all those years were just scratched open by Shan Haiming's offhanded comment. "Not everyone is like you with nothing to be afraid of. What do you even know?"
Xiao Ning bought various common seasonings and condiments from the other side then walked over, bag in hand, as he asked, "You bought a fish? How are we going to eat it, though?"
Xiao Ning: "...I can't make that."
The oil crackled and popped, while the chopping knife emitted a dull thud. Xiao Ning's thoughts in that moment had drifted far to the beyond.
Neither of Xiao Ning's hands were empty either, as he idly followed from behind. When they got back to the apartment district, a golden-haired creature rushed towards them with glee. It was most likely attracted by the scent of meat coming from the bags Xiao Ning and Shan Haiming carried, as it now circled them. But Xiao Ning wasn't too happy when he saw the golden-haired creature, though. So, right at that moment, he had quietly shifted a few steps off to the other side.
Xiao Ning wasn't a person accustomed to bad-mouthing, but the look in his eyes was a bit hard to hide, thus allowing his true feelings to be easily shown. Shan Haiming had no reaction at first, but once he noticed the other's pursed lips, with a frown, he took the phone and typed in a name. After staring at the screen for half a minute, he then dragged Xiao Ning along to buy the required ingredients. So following this round, the time for dinner had arrived.
Shan Haiming thought it over seriously for a while, then replied: "HuangmenjiT/n: braised chicken—with potato. A whole chicken or legs and thighs are chopped then fried/boiled before being caramelised with burnt sugar before being braised with seasonings, mushrooms, potatoes, etc. and soy sauce.."
Having been stunned by the act for a few seconds, Xiao Ning soon abruptly withdrew his hand.
N/A
Within the time it took him to be done with the fish, the half-filled pot of oil had heated up. While he slid the fish into the oil, Xiao Ning began chopping the potatoes and radishes.
Staring at him curiously, Shan Haiming asked, "That must be your favourite. Do you want to make that one?"
Holding the fish in one hand, and a large bottle of oil in his right, the Second Young Master Shan then announced, "Let's go home."
"It's inedible." Shan Haiming thought it was baffling this was something Xiao Ning couldn't see. Yet the other man still snatched the plate from him, then scrutinized it for a bit. "It's not that bad, you only cooked half, so just finish the rest since it's a whole fish."
Neither of Xiao Ning's hands were empty either, as he idly followed from behind. When they got back to the apartment district, a golden-haired creature rushed towards them with glee. It was most likely attracted by the scent of meat coming from the bags Xiao Ning and Shan Haiming carried, as it now circled them. But Xiao Ning wasn't too happy when he saw the golden-haired creature, though. So, right at that moment, he had quietly shifted a few steps off to the other side.
That guy really did not seem to care one bit about what he did. So while crinkling his brows lightly, Xiao Ning pulled out his phone and plopped it into that guy's hand then went to busy himself washing the vegetables. When it came to stuff like cooking, Xiao Ning could practically be considered a novice. He knew he had to strip the veggies, and casually went through the motions, but had no idea how much he had to pull off.
Squirrel Fish
"You're bleeding." Shan Haiming uttered, causing Xiao Ning to unconsciously turn to face him, and notice him staring at him for a moment, before letting out a "tch" and stating, "Such a slow reaction."
To the contrary, Shan Haiming put down the jug beside him and bent down to stroke the dog's golden fur. His hands were skilful as he rubbed its neck, and the golden retriever seemed quite comfortable with his petting. Its head kept arching and rubbing against him, incessantly sniffing Shan Haiming's face, what else could this be called but joy?
You want to do this yourself?
You want to do this yourself?
Shan Haiming's face didn't look so good right then, with him going on to suggest, "Curry chicken."
Shan Haiming looked up at him, replying, "Do I look like like I can?"
It was probably a coincidence, and Xiao Ning wanted to let out a bitter laugh. How could his guess be so spot on? However, Xiao Ning replied, "No, it's too difficult. We won't be able to make it well."
But again, Xiao Ning from beside them, took a step away from once more.
He regretted those words as soon as they passed his lips, however. This was due to his relationship with Shan Haiming still being quite odd. You could say they were close, but not really that close, yet they weren't as distant as mere acquaintances you would give a greeting from afar. So currently, the tone of those words he just spoke was well beyond those limits.
But again, Xiao Ning from beside them, took a step away from once more.
Shan Haiming's face didn't look so good right then, with him going on to suggest, "Curry chicken."
Suddenly lifting his head to look at Xiao Ning, Shan Haiming asked, "Why are you hiding so far away?"
Never had he expected, that Shan Haiming and him would be cooking a meal.
But again, Xiao Ning from beside them, took a step away from once more.
Shan Haiming stared at him, his gaze soon falling before he, rather nonchalantly, turned to finish his task, then said, "As you wish then. I'm not going to eat it, though."
In response, Xiao Ning: "...heheh."
Suddenly lifting his head to look at Xiao Ning, Shan Haiming asked, "Why are you hiding so far away?"
Shan Haiming's hand rubbed the dog's head, his gaze fixed on Xiao Ning when a sudden laugh escaped him, "You like sweets and are afraid of dogs... are you a kid?"
Noticing a girl wearing a tracksuit running towards them with a leash in hand, Shan Haiming gave the dog a pat on its head before again picking up the bottle of oil beside him then chided, "Whatever it is you want to say, just say it. What are scared of? Can't you speak?"
Xiao Ning: "..."
Never had he expected, that Shan Haiming and him would be cooking a meal.
He quickly shut off the stove, scoping out the overdone fish. He was annoyed, but his face barely showed it. Sporting a slight frown, pursed lips and a clenched fist, he plated the fish, then took a moment to think. After which, he picked up the plate and headed to a nearby trash bin.
But again, Xiao Ning from beside them, took a step away from once more.
The oil crackled and popped, while the chopping knife emitted a dull thud. Xiao Ning's thoughts in that moment had drifted far to the beyond.
Shan Haiming, on the other hand, was currently holding onto a cleaver in a trance. He then proceeded to cut the fish open, while craning his head to look at the recipe from the phone laying on the counter, reading through the steps. "We don't need to use this much stuff, right?"
Hearing this, Xiao Ning's expression became unsightly, his mouth moving to open but again sealed shut.
Xiao Ning: "..."
"You're bleeding." Shan Haiming uttered, causing Xiao Ning to unconsciously turn to face him, and notice him staring at him for a moment, before letting out a "tch" and stating, "Such a slow reaction."
Shan Haiming thought it over once more, replying, "Cantonese poached chickenT/n: White cut chicken, or Baizhanji. A whole chicken is boiled with ginger and spring onions then chopped and served with a dipping sauce.."
Noticing a girl wearing a tracksuit running towards them with a leash in hand, Shan Haiming gave the dog a pat on its head before again picking up the bottle of oil beside him then chided, "Whatever it is you want to say, just say it. What are scared of? Can't you speak?"
Holding the fish in one hand, and a large bottle of oil in his right, the Second Young Master Shan then announced, "Let's go home."
For some unknown reason, hearing his words, Xiao Ning felt a rage rise within him. It felt as though all the things he did his best to suppress over all those years were just scratched open by Shan Haiming's offhanded comment. "Not everyone is like you with nothing to be afraid of. What do you even know?"
Xiao Ning looked at him in return, stating, "I can't do it either."
Shan Haiming looked at him curiously, asking, "Why do you want to go eat out?"
Xiao Ning: "...I can't make that."
You want to do this yourself?
Shan Haiming then looked at his watch, "Isn't it time to eat?"
"You're bleeding." Shan Haiming uttered, causing Xiao Ning to unconsciously turn to face him, and notice him staring at him for a moment, before letting out a "tch" and stating, "Such a slow reaction."
The golden retriever now went back to rubbing against its owner, circling around them before panting to again look up at Shan Haiming. Seeing this, he smiled and said to it, "Bye."
Shan Haiming's brows lifted, but the dog's owner was now in front of them, still out of breath, "Charlie, why did you run off so quickly... huh! Are you guys alright?"
The kitchen did have pots and pans, but apart from those, the cupboards were bare. By this time, Shan Haiming had already made his way to the door, replying, "We'll just buy some while we're there."
For some unknown reason, hearing his words, Xiao Ning felt a rage rise within him. It felt as though all the things he did his best to suppress over all those years were just scratched open by Shan Haiming's offhanded comment. "Not everyone is like you with nothing to be afraid of. What do you even know?"
The kitchen did have pots and pans, but apart from those, the cupboards were bare. By this time, Shan Haiming had already made his way to the door, replying, "We'll just buy some while we're there."
That guy really did not seem to care one bit about what he did. So while crinkling his brows lightly, Xiao Ning pulled out his phone and plopped it into that guy's hand then went to busy himself washing the vegetables. When it came to stuff like cooking, Xiao Ning could practically be considered a novice. He knew he had to strip the veggies, and casually went through the motions, but had no idea how much he had to pull off.
Originally, Xiao Ning wanted to say that wasting food wasn't a great thing to do, but once his eyes fell and took in all the smeared seasonings covering Shan Haiming's clothes the word dancing on the tip of his tongue changed. "I'm pained because you went through all this trouble for a really long time just now."
The golden retriever now went back to rubbing against its owner, circling around them before panting to again look up at Shan Haiming. Seeing this, he smiled and said to it, "Bye."
Besides, Xiao Ning had nothing to do that afternoon, and he reckoned if he didn't handle Shan Haiming well enough, then tomorrow he'd also have nothing to do either. The new neighbourhood district he currently lived in was a good way away from civilization and hadn't been built that long ago. So the necessary supporting facilities haven't been adequately established. All there was, was a small unplanned marketplace, one which when Shan Haiming stood in, gave the feeling of him seeming like he didn't quite match. So while looking at such a scene, Xiao Ning felt as if he could laugh. Shan Haiming was standing next to a fish vendor's stand, a picky expression on his face while staring at the fish flopping around in a large plastic basin. He then pointed to one of the fish, prompting the vendor to swiftly grab a plastic bag and catch it. Now while using his fingers like a hook to hold the bagged fish in front of him, he inspected it with brows knitted, making one have no idea what he was possibly thinking.
Under these circumstances he had little choice, so Xiao Ning dejectedly took out his phone and searched online for recipes while in the market. Then out of politeness he also asked, "Is there anything else you'd like to eat?"
Hearing this, Xiao Ning's expression became unsightly, his mouth moving to open but again sealed shut.
Then following this, to Xiao Ning he simply said, "Let's go."
The golden retriever now went back to rubbing against its owner, circling around them before panting to again look up at Shan Haiming. Seeing this, he smiled and said to it, "Bye."
"You don't have any groceries in there?" Shan Haiming now stood up and straightened his clothes, saying, "Let's go out and buy some to bring back."
But a burst of sharp pain yanked these straying thoughts back to reality, as his knife stopped, his hand moving away, to discover his finger was slowly being drenched in blood.
That guy really did not seem to care one bit about what he did. So while crinkling his brows lightly, Xiao Ning pulled out his phone and plopped it into that guy's hand then went to busy himself washing the vegetables. When it came to stuff like cooking, Xiao Ning could practically be considered a novice. He knew he had to strip the veggies, and casually went through the motions, but had no idea how much he had to pull off.
"How would I know?" Shan Haiming lowered his own hand and spoke while looking at the groceries Xiao Ning was holding. Xiao Ning was left speechless at that moment but then he asked, "But aren't you going to cook it?"
Shan Haiming's brows lifted, but the dog's owner was now in front of them, still out of breath, "Charlie, why did you run off so quickly... huh! Are you guys alright?"
After he was done washing, he realised he had no bowl to put them into, so he went to retrieve one from the cabinet. However, those dishes up until now had only been used when Lu Yan's mother had come over, meaning they were currently covered in a thin layer of dust. So, due to this, he took them over to the sink to wash them one by one.
Xiao Ning felt a bit awkward, and so said nothing on their way back. Once they got to the apartment, he silently entered, following behind as Shan Haiming led the way to the kitchen, who then said, "Recipe."
Shan Haiming thought it over once more, replying, "Cantonese poached chickenT/n: White cut chicken, or Baizhanji. A whole chicken is boiled with ginger and spring onions then chopped and served with a dipping sauce.."
"How would I know?" Shan Haiming lowered his own hand and spoke while looking at the groceries Xiao Ning was holding. Xiao Ning was left speechless at that moment but then he asked, "But aren't you going to cook it?"
He asked, but the potato-peeling Xiao Ning did not give him a reply.
Under these circumstances he had little choice, so Xiao Ning dejectedly took out his phone and searched online for recipes while in the market. Then out of politeness he also asked, "Is there anything else you'd like to eat?"
Xiao Ning: "...that doesn't sound like something home-cooked either."
What on earth have chickens ever done to you? Were you a weasel in your last life or something?
Xiao Ning felt a bit awkward, and so said nothing on their way back. Once they got to the apartment, he silently entered, following behind as Shan Haiming led the way to the kitchen, who then said, "Recipe."
That guy really did not seem to care one bit about what he did. So while crinkling his brows lightly, Xiao Ning pulled out his phone and plopped it into that guy's hand then went to busy himself washing the vegetables. When it came to stuff like cooking, Xiao Ning could practically be considered a novice. He knew he had to strip the veggies, and casually went through the motions, but had no idea how much he had to pull off.
He regretted those words as soon as they passed his lips, however. This was due to his relationship with Shan Haiming still being quite odd. You could say they were close, but not really that close, yet they weren't as distant as mere acquaintances you would give a greeting from afar. So currently, the tone of those words he just spoke was well beyond those limits.
After he was done washing, he realised he had no bowl to put them into, so he went to retrieve one from the cabinet. However, those dishes up until now had only been used when Lu Yan's mother had come over, meaning they were currently covered in a thin layer of dust. So, due to this, he took them over to the sink to wash them one by one.
Xiao Ning felt a bit awkward, and so said nothing on their way back. Once they got to the apartment, he silently entered, following behind as Shan Haiming led the way to the kitchen, who then said, "Recipe."
He asked, but the potato-peeling Xiao Ning did not give him a reply.
Taking the bags in Xiao Ning's hand, Shan Haiming then decisively instructed, "Just look it up on your phone."
Shan Haiming, on the other hand, was currently holding onto a cleaver in a trance. He then proceeded to cut the fish open, while craning his head to look at the recipe from the phone laying on the counter, reading through the steps. "We don't need to use this much stuff, right?"
If not, why did you say we'll be cooking at home?
He asked, but the potato-peeling Xiao Ning did not give him a reply.
Xiao Ning's typing stopped.
Feeling as though nothing he said at that moment would be right, Xiao Ning sealed his lips tightly, standing on guard as he looked at Shan Haiming. Unbothered, as always, Shan Haiming simply pulled out a tissue and handed it to Xiao Ning, but after the other took it he remarked with a grin, "Tastes like potato."
N/A
After he was done washing, he realised he had no bowl to put them into, so he went to retrieve one from the cabinet. However, those dishes up until now had only been used when Lu Yan's mother had come over, meaning they were currently covered in a thin layer of dust. So, due to this, he took them over to the sink to wash them one by one.
黄焖鸡: huáng mèn jī: [lit.] yellow braised chicken is a braised chicken dish made with chicken (whole or legs and thighs), shiitake mushrooms, bell peppers, potatoes, sweet bean paste, ginger, chillis... it's stewed in burnt sugar and soy sauce in added. It's not really a hard dish to make, but it's probably intimidating if cooking isn't your thing. This is stuff you usually get from a restaurant. Huangmenji pic. Huangmenji video [] 白斩鸡: bái zhǎn jī: white cut/chopped chicken is a Cantonese dish made by boiling a whole chicken in a broth that isn't seasoned with much to preserve the natural flavour of the chicken (ginger, spring onion and cooking wine), then after boiling on low heat to make the meat nice and soft [don't forget to use the three dip method~], then it's soaked in an ice bath to relax the skin, then chopped into pieces and served with a dipping sauce. Baizhanji pic Baizhanji video here[]松鼠鱼: sōng shǔ yú: squirrel fish: A whole fish is de-boned and beheaded and filleted (without separating the tail), with flesh deep lattice forming cuts made on each fillet. apply an egg wash then flour and fry. Smear that sucker in a sweet and sour sauce and you're done! Squirrel fish video []iana: these two cooking together is one of my favourite things (*˘︶˘*) Just knowing how far south their efforts are going tickles my wicked little heart ψ(｀∇´)ψ
Within the time it took him to be done with the fish, the half-filled pot of oil had heated up. While he slid the fish into the oil, Xiao Ning began chopping the potatoes and radishes.
"Oh." Xiao Ning was never one to feel hungry quickly, so upon realising he said, "Let's go out to eat then."
"You don't have any groceries in there?" Shan Haiming now stood up and straightened his clothes, saying, "Let's go out and buy some to bring back."
Xiao Ning: "...I can't make that."
What on earth have chickens ever done to you? Were you a weasel in your last life or something?
After he was done washing, he realised he had no bowl to put them into, so he went to retrieve one from the cabinet. However, those dishes up until now had only been used when Lu Yan's mother had come over, meaning they were currently covered in a thin layer of dust. So, due to this, he took them over to the sink to wash them one by one.
The oil crackled and popped, while the chopping knife emitted a dull thud. Xiao Ning's thoughts in that moment had drifted far to the beyond.
This was a very new experience for Xiao Ning, so he lifted his finger to take a good look.
Xiao Ning wasn't a person accustomed to bad-mouthing, but the look in his eyes was a bit hard to hide, thus allowing his true feelings to be easily shown. Shan Haiming had no reaction at first, but once he noticed the other's pursed lips, with a frown, he took the phone and typed in a name. After staring at the screen for half a minute, he then dragged Xiao Ning along to buy the required ingredients. So following this round, the time for dinner had arrived.
He regretted those words as soon as they passed his lips, however. This was due to his relationship with Shan Haiming still being quite odd. You could say they were close, but not really that close, yet they weren't as distant as mere acquaintances you would give a greeting from afar. So currently, the tone of those words he just spoke was well beyond those limits.
Never had he expected, that Shan Haiming and him would be cooking a meal.
"How would I know?" Shan Haiming lowered his own hand and spoke while looking at the groceries Xiao Ning was holding. Xiao Ning was left speechless at that moment but then he asked, "But aren't you going to cook it?"
Shan Haiming just so happened to have gone next to him, taking a look at the results on his screen before casually remarking, "Don't you like fish? I'll handle this part myself."
If not, why did you say we'll be cooking at home?
In response, Xiao Ning: "...heheh."
"You don't have any groceries in there?" Shan Haiming now stood up and straightened his clothes, saying, "Let's go out and buy some to bring back."
Shan Haiming thought it over once more, replying, "Cantonese poached chickenT/n: White cut chicken, or Baizhanji. A whole chicken is boiled with ginger and spring onions then chopped and served with a dipping sauce.."
Shan Haiming thought it over seriously for a while, then replied: "HuangmenjiT/n: braised chicken—with potato. A whole chicken or legs and thighs are chopped then fried/boiled before being caramelised with burnt sugar before being braised with seasonings, mushrooms, potatoes, etc. and soy sauce.."
But a burst of sharp pain yanked these straying thoughts back to reality, as his knife stopped, his hand moving away, to discover his finger was slowly being drenched in blood.
After he was done washing, he realised he had no bowl to put them into, so he went to retrieve one from the cabinet. However, those dishes up until now had only been used when Lu Yan's mother had come over, meaning they were currently covered in a thin layer of dust. So, due to this, he took them over to the sink to wash them one by one.
Originally, Xiao Ning wanted to say that wasting food wasn't a great thing to do, but once his eyes fell and took in all the smeared seasonings covering Shan Haiming's clothes the word dancing on the tip of his tongue changed. "I'm pained because you went through all this trouble for a really long time just now."
Xiao Ning: "...I can't make that."
This was a very new experience for Xiao Ning, so he lifted his finger to take a good look.
In response to this, Shan Haiming scoffed, countering, "If you can't cook it properly, then you can't. Don't lump me in there with you."
Feeling as though nothing he said at that moment would be right, Xiao Ning sealed his lips tightly, standing on guard as he looked at Shan Haiming. Unbothered, as always, Shan Haiming simply pulled out a tissue and handed it to Xiao Ning, but after the other took it he remarked with a grin, "Tastes like potato."
Shan Haiming looked at him curiously, asking, "Why do you want to go eat out?"
Xiao Ning felt a bit awkward, and so said nothing on their way back. Once they got to the apartment, he silently entered, following behind as Shan Haiming led the way to the kitchen, who then said, "Recipe."
"You're bleeding." Shan Haiming uttered, causing Xiao Ning to unconsciously turn to face him, and notice him staring at him for a moment, before letting out a "tch" and stating, "Such a slow reaction."
"You're bleeding." Shan Haiming uttered, causing Xiao Ning to unconsciously turn to face him, and notice him staring at him for a moment, before letting out a "tch" and stating, "Such a slow reaction."
"Are you also afraid of pain?" Shan Haiming smacked his lips while giving him a look as if he wanted to smile.
Then in the next, Xiao Ning's left hand was already pulled towards Shan Haiming, as he lowered his head, capturing Xiao Ning's fingertip with his lip while the warm softness of his tongue pressed against his wound, moving little by little, as it sucked.
黄焖鸡: huáng mèn jī: [lit.] yellow braised chicken is a braised chicken dish made with chicken (whole or legs and thighs), shiitake mushrooms, bell peppers, potatoes, sweet bean paste, ginger, chillis... it's stewed in burnt sugar and soy sauce in added. It's not really a hard dish to make, but it's probably intimidating if cooking isn't your thing. This is stuff you usually get from a restaurant. Huangmenji pic. Huangmenji video [] 白斩鸡: bái zhǎn jī: white cut/chopped chicken is a Cantonese dish made by boiling a whole chicken in a broth that isn't seasoned with much to preserve the natural flavour of the chicken (ginger, spring onion and cooking wine), then after boiling on low heat to make the meat nice and soft [don't forget to use the three dip method~], then it's soaked in an ice bath to relax the skin, then chopped into pieces and served with a dipping sauce. Baizhanji pic Baizhanji video here[]松鼠鱼: sōng shǔ yú: squirrel fish: A whole fish is de-boned and beheaded and filleted (without separating the tail), with flesh deep lattice forming cuts made on each fillet. apply an egg wash then flour and fry. Smear that sucker in a sweet and sour sauce and you're done! Squirrel fish video []iana: these two cooking together is one of my favourite things (*˘︶˘*) Just knowing how far south their efforts are going tickles my wicked little heart ψ(｀∇´)ψ
Xiao Ning wasn't a person accustomed to bad-mouthing, but the look in his eyes was a bit hard to hide, thus allowing his true feelings to be easily shown. Shan Haiming had no reaction at first, but once he noticed the other's pursed lips, with a frown, he took the phone and typed in a name. After staring at the screen for half a minute, he then dragged Xiao Ning along to buy the required ingredients. So following this round, the time for dinner had arrived.
Shan Haiming looked up at him, replying, "Do I look like like I can?"
"I'm the one who bought it, so why are you so pained?" Shan Haiming sighed.
It was probably a coincidence, and Xiao Ning wanted to let out a bitter laugh. How could his guess be so spot on? However, Xiao Ning replied, "No, it's too difficult. We won't be able to make it well."
Having been stunned by the act for a few seconds, Xiao Ning soon abruptly withdrew his hand.
Hearing this, Xiao Ning's expression became unsightly, his mouth moving to open but again sealed shut.
Originally, Xiao Ning wanted to say that wasting food wasn't a great thing to do, but once his eyes fell and took in all the smeared seasonings covering Shan Haiming's clothes the word dancing on the tip of his tongue changed. "I'm pained because you went through all this trouble for a really long time just now."
Shan Haiming, on the other hand, was currently holding onto a cleaver in a trance. He then proceeded to cut the fish open, while craning his head to look at the recipe from the phone laying on the counter, reading through the steps. "We don't need to use this much stuff, right?"
He asked, but the potato-peeling Xiao Ning did not give him a reply.
"What are you doing?" Xiao Ning who had finally regained his senses cried out to stop him.
Having been stunned by the act for a few seconds, Xiao Ning soon abruptly withdrew his hand.
Within the time it took him to be done with the fish, the half-filled pot of oil had heated up. While he slid the fish into the oil, Xiao Ning began chopping the potatoes and radishes.
"Are you also afraid of pain?" Shan Haiming smacked his lips while giving him a look as if he wanted to smile.
Xiao Ning pursed his lips, replying, "Because only the leftovers I brought back from lunch are in the fridge."
Feeling as though nothing he said at that moment would be right, Xiao Ning sealed his lips tightly, standing on guard as he looked at Shan Haiming. Unbothered, as always, Shan Haiming simply pulled out a tissue and handed it to Xiao Ning, but after the other took it he remarked with a grin, "Tastes like potato."
But again, Xiao Ning from beside them, took a step away from once more.
If not, why did you say we'll be cooking at home?
Noticing a girl wearing a tracksuit running towards them with a leash in hand, Shan Haiming gave the dog a pat on its head before again picking up the bottle of oil beside him then chided, "Whatever it is you want to say, just say it. What are scared of? Can't you speak?"
Feeling as though nothing he said at that moment would be right, Xiao Ning sealed his lips tightly, standing on guard as he looked at Shan Haiming. Unbothered, as always, Shan Haiming simply pulled out a tissue and handed it to Xiao Ning, but after the other took it he remarked with a grin, "Tastes like potato."
To the contrary, Shan Haiming put down the jug beside him and bent down to stroke the dog's golden fur. His hands were skilful as he rubbed its neck, and the golden retriever seemed quite comfortable with his petting. Its head kept arching and rubbing against him, incessantly sniffing Shan Haiming's face, what else could this be called but joy?
That smile of his held no ill intent, more akin to one of a half-grown boy who just found himself a playmate as he stared at Xiao Ning's dazed expression. But then, out of nowhere, the look on Shan Haiming's face changed. He turned around in a flurry to see the fish he had frying in the pot whose colour was far from good, making it clear to see it had been overcooked.
Shan Haiming stared at him, his gaze soon falling before he, rather nonchalantly, turned to finish his task, then said, "As you wish then. I'm not going to eat it, though."
After this incident, things between the two were no longer as awkward as they had been earlier. Well... actually, Shan Haiming was more or less just like he had been as Xiao Ning was the one whose heart had relaxed a bit. All the things which had occurred in the past few days had made his heart feel heavy, but because there was someone there with him, now it all felt a bit lighter. Every now and again, he would say a few words to Shan Haiming. So like this, they had continued watching the television, saying a few words then none, as the afternoon passed them by.
What on earth have chickens ever done to you? Were you a weasel in your last life or something?
Shan Haiming's hand rubbed the dog's head, his gaze fixed on Xiao Ning when a sudden laugh escaped him, "You like sweets and are afraid of dogs... are you a kid?"
"Are you also afraid of pain?" Shan Haiming smacked his lips while giving him a look as if he wanted to smile.
He quickly shut off the stove, scoping out the overdone fish. He was annoyed, but his face barely showed it. Sporting a slight frown, pursed lips and a clenched fist, he plated the fish, then took a moment to think. After which, he picked up the plate and headed to a nearby trash bin.
At his words, Xiao Ning sighed internally, but much to his surprise he wasn't feeling upset, or even mad. His tone even had an upbeat ring to it as he said, "I'll eat it then."
"What are you doing?" Xiao Ning who had finally regained his senses cried out to stop him.
Within the time it took him to be done with the fish, the half-filled pot of oil had heated up. While he slid the fish into the oil, Xiao Ning began chopping the potatoes and radishes.
Feeling as though nothing he said at that moment would be right, Xiao Ning sealed his lips tightly, standing on guard as he looked at Shan Haiming. Unbothered, as always, Shan Haiming simply pulled out a tissue and handed it to Xiao Ning, but after the other took it he remarked with a grin, "Tastes like potato."
Hearing this, Xiao Ning's expression became unsightly, his mouth moving to open but again sealed shut.
Shan Haiming then looked at his watch, "Isn't it time to eat?"
Feeling as though nothing he said at that moment would be right, Xiao Ning sealed his lips tightly, standing on guard as he looked at Shan Haiming. Unbothered, as always, Shan Haiming simply pulled out a tissue and handed it to Xiao Ning, but after the other took it he remarked with a grin, "Tastes like potato."
Under these circumstances he had little choice, so Xiao Ning dejectedly took out his phone and searched online for recipes while in the market. Then out of politeness he also asked, "Is there anything else you'd like to eat?"
Originally, Xiao Ning wanted to say that wasting food wasn't a great thing to do, but once his eyes fell and took in all the smeared seasonings covering Shan Haiming's clothes the word dancing on the tip of his tongue changed. "I'm pained because you went through all this trouble for a really long time just now."
"It's inedible." Shan Haiming thought it was baffling this was something Xiao Ning couldn't see. Yet the other man still snatched the plate from him, then scrutinized it for a bit. "It's not that bad, you only cooked half, so just finish the rest since it's a whole fish."
Shan Haiming then looked at his watch, "Isn't it time to eat?"
Xiao Ning: "...that doesn't sound like something home-cooked either."
At this, Xiao Ning couldn't help but chuckle. These passing days of him going on whims, doing whatever comes to mind, already gave him the feeling that so long as he was happy, it was fine.
Squirrel Fish
Shan Haiming thought it over seriously for a while, then replied: "HuangmenjiT/n: braised chicken—with potato. A whole chicken or legs and thighs are chopped then fried/boiled before being caramelised with burnt sugar before being braised with seasonings, mushrooms, potatoes, etc. and soy sauce.."
"I'm the one who bought it, so why are you so pained?" Shan Haiming sighed.
Shan Haiming just so happened to have gone next to him, taking a look at the results on his screen before casually remarking, "Don't you like fish? I'll handle this part myself."
Xiao Ning felt a bit awkward, and so said nothing on their way back. Once they got to the apartment, he silently entered, following behind as Shan Haiming led the way to the kitchen, who then said, "Recipe."
Within the time it took him to be done with the fish, the half-filled pot of oil had heated up. While he slid the fish into the oil, Xiao Ning began chopping the potatoes and radishes.
Feeling as though nothing he said at that moment would be right, Xiao Ning sealed his lips tightly, standing on guard as he looked at Shan Haiming. Unbothered, as always, Shan Haiming simply pulled out a tissue and handed it to Xiao Ning, but after the other took it he remarked with a grin, "Tastes like potato."
In all honesty, Xiao Ning had no clue how to make any of those dishes. But when he bought the seasonings earlier, he saw there was curry there too. Thinking he could handle that much, he summoned up his courage and gave a nod. "Alright then. But what about the fish?"
Besides, Xiao Ning had nothing to do that afternoon, and he reckoned if he didn't handle Shan Haiming well enough, then tomorrow he'd also have nothing to do either. The new neighbourhood district he currently lived in was a good way away from civilization and hadn't been built that long ago. So the necessary supporting facilities haven't been adequately established. All there was, was a small unplanned marketplace, one which when Shan Haiming stood in, gave the feeling of him seeming like he didn't quite match. So while looking at such a scene, Xiao Ning felt as if he could laugh. Shan Haiming was standing next to a fish vendor's stand, a picky expression on his face while staring at the fish flopping around in a large plastic basin. He then pointed to one of the fish, prompting the vendor to swiftly grab a plastic bag and catch it. Now while using his fingers like a hook to hold the bagged fish in front of him, he inspected it with brows knitted, making one have no idea what he was possibly thinking.
"What are you doing?" Xiao Ning who had finally regained his senses cried out to stop him.
Originally, Xiao Ning wanted to say that wasting food wasn't a great thing to do, but once his eyes fell and took in all the smeared seasonings covering Shan Haiming's clothes the word dancing on the tip of his tongue changed. "I'm pained because you went through all this trouble for a really long time just now."
Xiao Ning bought various common seasonings and condiments from the other side then walked over, bag in hand, as he asked, "You bought a fish? How are we going to eat it, though?"
Suddenly lifting his head to look at Xiao Ning, Shan Haiming asked, "Why are you hiding so far away?"
Taking the bags in Xiao Ning's hand, Shan Haiming then decisively instructed, "Just look it up on your phone."
Xiao Ning looked at him in return, stating, "I can't do it either."
"I'm the one who bought it, so why are you so pained?" Shan Haiming sighed.
"How would I know?" Shan Haiming lowered his own hand and spoke while looking at the groceries Xiao Ning was holding. Xiao Ning was left speechless at that moment but then he asked, "But aren't you going to cook it?"
"How would I know?" Shan Haiming lowered his own hand and spoke while looking at the groceries Xiao Ning was holding. Xiao Ning was left speechless at that moment but then he asked, "But aren't you going to cook it?"
He regretted those words as soon as they passed his lips, however. This was due to his relationship with Shan Haiming still being quite odd. You could say they were close, but not really that close, yet they weren't as distant as mere acquaintances you would give a greeting from afar. So currently, the tone of those words he just spoke was well beyond those limits.
What on earth have chickens ever done to you? Were you a weasel in your last life or something?
"You don't have any groceries in there?" Shan Haiming now stood up and straightened his clothes, saying, "Let's go out and buy some to bring back."
He quickly shut off the stove, scoping out the overdone fish. He was annoyed, but his face barely showed it. Sporting a slight frown, pursed lips and a clenched fist, he plated the fish, then took a moment to think. After which, he picked up the plate and headed to a nearby trash bin.
Xiao Ning: "...that doesn't sound like something home-cooked either."
Xiao Ning's typing stopped.
Shan Haiming stared at him, his gaze soon falling before he, rather nonchalantly, turned to finish his task, then said, "As you wish then. I'm not going to eat it, though."
N/A
At his words, Xiao Ning sighed internally, but much to his surprise he wasn't feeling upset, or even mad. His tone even had an upbeat ring to it as he said, "I'll eat it then."
Neither of Xiao Ning's hands were empty either, as he idly followed from behind. When they got back to the apartment district, a golden-haired creature rushed towards them with glee. It was most likely attracted by the scent of meat coming from the bags Xiao Ning and Shan Haiming carried, as it now circled them. But Xiao Ning wasn't too happy when he saw the golden-haired creature, though. So, right at that moment, he had quietly shifted a few steps off to the other side.
Author's Note:
Notes:
^2. 白斩鸡: bái zhǎn jī: white cut/chopped chicken is a Cantonese dish made by boiling a whole chicken in a broth that isn't seasoned with much to preserve the natural flavour of the chicken (ginger, spring onion and cooking wine), then after boiling on low heat to make the meat nice and soft [don't forget to use the three dip method~], then it's soaked in an ice bath to relax the skin, then chopped into pieces and served with a dipping sauce. Baizhanji pic Baizhanji video here
松鼠鱼: sōng shǔ yú: squirrel fish: A whole fish is de-boned and beheaded and filleted (without separating the tail), with flesh deep lattice forming cuts made on each fillet. apply an egg wash then flour and fry. Smear that sucker in a sweet and sour sauce and you're done! Squirrel fish video
iana: these two cooking together is one of my favourite things (*˘︶˘*) Just knowing how far south their efforts are going tickles my wicked little heart ψ(｀∇´)ψ
Wait I love them so much 🥺 ML’s personality really compliments MC’s. They’re kinda so domestic already.
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