Juniper was happy to announce that they had finally found the perfect property.
It wasn't far from the main city. The neighborhood boasted a great deal of charm and history, including well-kept homes, parks, schools and shops.
When Juniper told Ciro, he seemed excited and surprised. He asked him to share pictures of the home and the images were sent by communicator.
After sharing them, Ciro remarked that the location looked like it might suit better than any of the places he'd been considering.
Juniper agreed. "Yes, I do prefer to be closer to the centre of town, near everything. This neighbourhood is quiet and quaint, yet close enough to walk or drive wherever I need to go."
As soon as Juniper sent the message back to Ciro, Demetrius chimed in saying, "We should definitely make an offer as soon as possible. If we put down a deposit now, we'll have first dibs on the place before anyone else even gets wind of its availability."
"Hm," Juniper nodded but added. "Oh,.. But Gio hasn't seen it in person yet.. What does everyone think? Is it too much to ask for someone who hasn't seen the inside of the home to put down an offer?"
All three men shared glances. They didn't want to commit unless they Juniper was sure.
Finally, Yong-jin spoke up after taking a deep breath. "If you trust my advice, then – put in an offer. We can always pull out if something goes wrong."
Juniper thought for a moment before agreeing "Alright, I will send Gio the details later."
With the group's unanimous agreement to move forward with the offer, Juniper's heart soared with excitement and relief. The prospect of having their friends by their side, sharing a home with his lovers, filled him with a sense of belonging and warmth.
To celebrate this momentous occasion, Juniper invited Demetrius, Yong-Jin, and Daiju to spend the evening together at his home.
The evening sun cast a golden glow as they gathered in the cozy kitchen, filling the air with laughter and anticipation. Juniper, their apron donned and sleeves rolled up, took charge of the cooking duties.
As Juniper expertly navigated the kitchen, they couldn't help but marvel at his culinary prowess. Demetrius commented unintentionally stirring up the other two, "I've only had the chance to eat what you made back on Carvina, I'm looking forward to your home cooking this time."
Yong-Jin, perched on a stool, glanced over "…I've only seen your broadcast, but being here in person, experiencing your food firsthand is a different experience."
Daiju, leaning against the countertop with a playful grin, chimed in, "I'm happy to know I was the first to experience your cooking,.. perks of being a moderator I guess hehe." Daiju successfully earned the annoyed glances of the other two
Juniper blushed at their compliments, then smiled at the casual competitiveness between them. Cooking was not only a passion but a way for them to bring joy to others. And in this moment, surrounded by their chosen family, they felt an overwhelming sense of contentment.
"Oh I haven't done a broadcast in awhile,.." Juniper mused
"Then start one now, we will be your live audience" Daiju chimed in
***
"Alright, everyone! Tonight's special dish is a fusion of flavors, inspired by the diversity we bring together. I present to you, 'Tofu Stir-Fry'!" Juniper announced, holding up a colorful assortment of vegetables and marinated tofu.
As they began prepping the ingredients, their nimble fingers sliced through the vegetables with precision, the sound of the knife hitting the chopping board echoing through the broadcast. The viewers' comments started rolling in, expressing their excitement and hunger.
** I'm already drooling over here! Those veggies look so fresh and vibrant. Ahh where can I buy??? **
** you're a culinary magician! Can you please share the recipe for that marinade? **
Juniper grinned, their excitement infectious as they answered the viewers' questions. "Of course! The marinade is a delightful blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, a touch of honey, and a sprinkle of red chili flakes for a hint of heat. It's the perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet, complementing the flavors of the dish."
As the sizzling wok hit the stove, Juniper expertly tossed the colorful ingredients, each one landing in perfect harmony. The kitchen filled with a symphony of sizzling sounds and aromatic aromas that wafted through the air.
** Where can I find this Tofu? I've seen it before but there isn't anywhere that sells it ready made! **
** It smells so good, how do you get it to stay together it looks hard to keep together?**
Juniper laughed, his eyes twinkling with pride. "Ah, I made this tofu myself. the secret to achieving that crispy exterior is to ensure the tofu is extra firm and well-drained before cooking. Toss it in cornstarch for that golden crust, and make sure the oil is hot before adding the tofu. It's all about getting that perfect balance of textures!"
As the stir-fry reached its final stage, Juniper added a special touch—sprinkling a handful of toasted sesame seeds over the dish, giving it an irresistible nutty aroma and a delightful crunch.
Juniper skillfully plated the Stir-Fry, presenting it to the camera with a flourish. The vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas captured the attention of the viewers, drawing them deeper into the culinary experience.
** can you make a broadcast making the tofu?**
** Um it had so many flavours, I wish they made nutritional packs in this flavour…**
"The simple Stir-Fry is a symphony of tastes. The vibrant vegetables offer a fresh and crisp bite, while the tofu carries a delicious umami flavor. The tangy and slightly sweet sauce ties it all together, creating a melody of flavors that dance on your taste buds."
As the broadcast continued, Juniper engaged in some conversation with the viewers before drawing to a close.
The comments continued to pour in even once Juniper had gone offline, expressing gratitude and admiration for Juniper's culinary prowess.
Juniper raised their glass and toasted to the simple pleasures of life surrounded by Demetrius, Yong-Jin and Daiju and to the excitement of new beginnings in their dream home.