When they returned to the hotel, it was rather late. Tan Xiao and Chang Weicai were sitting by the fire, chatting. Bowls and chopsticks that hadn't been tidied up were set aside; they had obviously already eaten.
Bai Youwei was nowhere in sight.
"Brother Mo, here's your portion." Tan Xiao handed him a bowl.
Shen Mo didn't take it, saying, "I'll go up and call her."
"I took a bowl up to her earlier, but she didn't eat. It's hot out, so she probably isn't hungry." Mr. Chang chimed in, "When we have a chance, we can pickle some sour beans and cucumbers ourselves. They're good for stimulating the appetite."
Tan Xiao was surprised, "Mr. Chang, you know how to pickle cucumbers?"
"Yeah." Mr. Chang nodded, seriously explaining, "It's not difficult as long as you have cucumbers, chilli, salt, vinegar, and garlic ..."
"Aren't you a teacher? You're not a cook by any chance, are you?"
"Well... when you live by yourself, you inevitably pick up some cooking skills ..."
