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“If a grand establishment like yours engages in such practices, it must be to earn a good reputation. Here I am, a scholar coming to dine, yet you refuse to serve me. Are you trying to take advantage of our reluctance to confront you, hoping to gain a reputation without spending a single coin?” Jiang Chunbao’s emotions were clearly stirred.
Seeing Jiang Chunbao’s agitation, the waiter quickly put on a smile and said, “Of course not, sir. I will bring your soup right away.”
Zui Xianlou was a well-established restaurant in the capital, known for its prominent reputation. The owner was charitable, often providing food for beggars. Despite not minding serving the two bowls of minced meat, spinach, and tofu soup this time, they didn’t want any negative publicity if the audacious scholar caused a scene.
Understanding the gravity of the situation, the waiter chose to appease Jiang Chunbao and went to fetch the soup.
Soon, the minced meat, spinach, and tofu soup along with the peanuts were served. The dish was rich with minced meat, tender spinach, ample tofu, and a thick broth that promised to satisfy. With the addition of the peanuts, it was a perfect meal.
Jiang Chunbao eagerly dug in with his chopsticks and spoon, thoroughly enjoying the meal.
“Excuse me, sir.”
Jiang Chunbao heard movement and looked up to see a slightly older scholar, Gaing Weishou, dressed similarly in a long robe, approaching him.
“May I ask who you are…” Jiang Chunbao was skeptical of the stranger’s approach.
“I am Gaing Weishou, also a scholar here for the examination,” Gaing Weishou introduced himself with a bow. “I arrived here today and happened to dine at Zui Xianlou. I overheard your conversation with the waiter and found your words truly reasonable.”
“Zui Xianlou indeed deceives its customers, seeking both reputation through free meals. Such behavior is contemptible, causing others to seethe silently. You, however, disregarded the facades and spoke out, which is truly admirable,” Gaing Weishou praised.
Jiang Chunbao was surprised to find a like-minded individual and even more so to receive such recognition and praise. Feeling a bit embarrassed, he responded, “It was just a matter of injustice, speaking out a few words. Your praise is too generous, Gaing.”
He then hurriedly introduced himself, “I am Jiang Chunbao.”
“Nice to meet you, Jiang,” Gaing Weishou smiled warmly. “I wonder if I have the honor of dining with you?”
As he spoke, Gaing Weishou glanced at his table, which was adorned with sweet and sour fish, begonia chestnut chicken, bamboo-tube eight-treasure rice, and a dish that appeared to be a cold salad but was indiscernible.
The opulence of this meal was beyond lavish for one person.
Furthermore, since the other person proposed dining together, wouldn’t that mean they could share the meal?
Jiang Chunbao was delighted by the offer but maintained his decorum, saying, “If you don’t mind my humble fare, let’s dine together.”
“Thank you, Jiang.” Gaing Weishou signaled the waiter, “Kindly bring the food to this table. Jiang and I will dine together.”
It was common for individuals dining alone to join others they met along the way.
The waiter, unfazed by the request, followed Gaing Weishou’s instructions and transferred all the dishes to Jiang Chunbao’s table.
Observing the array of delectable dishes that Gaing Weishou had hardly touched, Jiang Chunbao suddenly found his minced meat, spinach, and tofu soup less appetizing.
The sight and aroma of the sumptuous spread made his mouth water uncontrollably, causing him to swallow repeatedly while speaking.
“Don’t be shy, Jiang.” Gaing Weishou placed generous portions of fish into Jiang Chunbao’s bowl. “We’ve hit it off well, so it’s only natural that we share this meal.”
“The Fenjiu here is quite flavorful. Dining alone felt a bit desolate without a companion to share the drink. Would you be willing to share a pot of wine with me?” Gaing Weishou proposed.
Jiang Chunbao, while stuffing his mouth with fish, replied somewhat indistinctly, “I defer to your generosity. I’ll go along with whatever you say, Gaing.”
“Indeed, Jiang, we truly understand each other,” Gaing Weishou remarked. He called the waiter to bring a pot of wine and ordered an assorted lamb hotpot.
When drinking, it’s best to have some dishes to accompany it.
Observing Gaing Weishou’s generosity and realizing that his attire and demeanor surpassed his own, even down to his silk shoes, Jiang Chunbao took the opportunity during their conversation to inquire about Gaing Weishou’s background.
He discovered that Gaing Weishou came from a scholarly family with two hundred acres of fertile land. Several uncles were scholars, and an uncle had even passed the imperial exam to become an official. Their family lived in relative prosperity.
No wonder Gaing Weishou could order so many dishes for himself.
Feeling he had made a well-off friend, Jiang Chunbao envisioned benefiting from their newfound acquaintance, perhaps enjoying free meals and drinks in the future. He reciprocated the warmth in their interaction.
After a couple of drinks, the two men found themselves engaged in lively conversation, sharing thoughts openly.
Jiang Mixia and Song Jingyun, observing Jiang Chunbao enjoying his meal with someone else not far away, decided it was best to leave promptly.
“I see it now,” Jiang Mixia finished her sour bamboo shoot and chicken skin soup.
The tangy flavor of the bamboo shoots added a refreshing taste to the soup.
“It seems like Jiang Chunbao is the only one who hasn’t noticed,” Song Jingyun motioned for the waiter to settle the bill. “Let’s leave soon to avoid Jiang Chunbao noticing us and stubbornly following us around.”
“Agreed,” Jiang Mixia set down her bowl and chopsticks, letting out a satisfied burp.
It’s worth noting that her husband was becoming more astute, able to perceive such situations clearly.
After paying the bill, the waiter kindly offered a bag of green bean cakes as a parting gift, escorting Jiang Mixia and Song Jingyun out.
As they walked from their table towards the exit, they had to pass by Jiang Chunbao’s table.
Although Jiang Mixia and Song Jingyun didn’t acknowledge him, Jiang Chunbao still noticed their presence.
In a typical scenario, upon seeing Jiang Mixia and Song Jingyun, Jiang Chunbao would have likely harbored resentment towards them for their lack of care, support, luxurious lifestyle, and emphasis on appearances when dining.
However, in this instance, Jiang Chunbao lifted his chin, earnestly gazed at Jiang Mixia and Song Jingyun, even curving his lips into a smile, intentionally speaking loudly, “Buying a courtyard in the capital? That won’t do…”
He had wealthier, more influential friends now. Purchasing a courtyard in the capital was nothing compared to the lifestyle of Jiang Mixia and Song Jingyun, who could only afford to stay in inns!
Jiang Mixia and Song Jingyun exchanged glances, remained silent, smiled politely, and then quickly departed.
To Jiang Chunbao, it seemed like an awkward yet polite smile and a hasty retreat.
It was truly satisfying!
As he savored a bite of lamb, Jiang Chunbao chewed contentedly.
Suddenly, Gaing Weishou stood up.