Police Xiao smiled and nodded at her: "Yu, youâre pretty lucky."
He Jinxuan noticed people standing at the doors of their homes, with many glancing over this way, and called to Xiao Tie, "Letâs talk inside."
Yu Xinyan laughed and said, "Come into the courtyard quickly. Youâre right on time; the foodâs ready, and the meatballs have just been friedâtheyâre perfect right now."
Little Siyan was savoring his food with a small bowl in hand: "Uncle, the meatballs my sister fried are delicious."
He Jinxuan pinched his little nephewâs cheek with a smile: "Youâre quite the little foodie."
Yu Xinyan urged, "Wash your hands quickly; weâre about to eat."
Xiao Tie laughed and said, "No wonder Director He said I have a treat today. I wonât hold back then."
Others wouldnât know, but Xiao Tie was indeed a foodie, much like Little Siyan.
When the food was served, Xiao Tie beamed with joy: "It smells delightful. The dishes are well-paired, better than those at a state-run restaurant."
He Jinxuan came out of the room with half a bottle of white liquor, pouring some for Xiao Tie as he said, "It tastes even better."
Xiao Tie laughed heartily and patted his shoulder: "Not bad."
Ye Silai helped bring over the bowls and chopsticks: "Uncle Xiao, my uncle wasnât lying; the food my sister makes is especially delicious. Youâll see when you try it."
Yu Xinyan smiled and patted Silaiâs head, helping him with his meal: "You sit down and eat as well."
Ye Silai was truly thoughtful. Earlier, he had already served some fried meatballs for both himself and his brother, yet while Little Siyan almost finished his, Silai hadnât started his own because heâd been helping her the whole time.
He Jinxuan directly placed a large piece of fish in Xiao Tieâs bowl: "Here, have some fish."
Xiao Tie didnât hold back, savoring the fish and giving a thumbs-up: "This taste is truly remarkable, worthy of a chefâs craftsmanship."
Having her cooking appreciated, Yu Xinyan was naturally pleased: "If you like it, have more."
She pointed to the fried fish balls and vegetable balls: "Try these meatballs too; theyâve just been fried, and the flavor is great."
Xiao Tie, a true food enthusiast, was full of praise after trying them.
He Jinxuan raised his glass: "Come on, this time, itâs all thanks to your helpâmuch appreciated."
Xiao Tie lightly patted his shoulder: "Alright, no need to say more between us, but keep it in mindâseize the opportunity."
At first, Yu Xinyan understood, but later she was confused, thinking they were talking about something else. She didnât pay it much attention, patiently picking fish bones for Little Sili with communal chopsticks.
Xiao Tie put down his cup: "Yu, the housing matter is settled. Thereâs a small yard next to the guest house thatâs just vacatedâitâs a single room, not very large, but perfect for you to live alone. Itâs in a quiet yet lively area."
Yu Xinyan naturally knew about the house and smiled at Xiao Tie: "Thank you so much."
Xiao Tie, smiling, pointed at He Jinxuan: "This guy gave up his own rewards to ensure your registration and housing. The one you should really thank is him."
He Jinxuan elbowed Xiao Tie: "Alright, letâs eat before the food gets cold."
Xiao Tie realized he had spoken too plainly today, laughed, and took a vegetable ball: "After eating here, I canât believe how I managed before."
The two little ones heard this and burst into laughter.
After the meal, Xiao Tie didnât linger much longer. Besides leaving the house keys, he also left a few meat coupons and then departed.