Chen Yin arrived to find all the hot pot ingredients already prepared.
The yard gate was left ajar, casting a warm yellow glow from the garden lamp inside, softly illuminating the tree shadows. Light streamed out from the brighter indoor windows, carrying faint voices with it, which suddenly gave Chen Yin a strong sense of home.
He had already taken a good look when he came the day before; the house was carefully arranged, showing a woman's delicacy and attentiveness at every turn.
He thought of Meng Xinian and secretly felt that this might be just what Meng Xinian needed and longed for.
"Is that Chen Yin?"
A young girl came out, and due to the backlighting, he couldn't see her face clearly for a moment.
"Yes, it's me."
"Please come in."
Chen Yin pushed the door open, assuming it had been left ajar for him. After entering, he attempted to close the door behind him, only to hear Chiang Xiao say, "Leave it like that, no need to close it."
He paused for a moment.
