Chapter 14: Find a Boyfriend Who Can Cook

Because Shen Mengxia was working overtime and couldn't join her for dinner, Wen Jiu, feeling too lazy to go out, ordered takeout instead.

As she ate, Wen Jiu resolved to try learning how to cook once more.

It was strange, really—she'd tried her hand at cooking since high school, but never succeeded. The dishes she made weren't exactly inedible, but they certainly couldn't be called delicious.

Wen Jiu was picky with her food, so she eventually gave up the idea altogether.

It was clear that while Wen Jiu was quick to grasp things in other areas, she simply had no talent for cooking.

Her father, Wen Zhan, found this amusing, teasing her cheerfully that she could always find a boyfriend who knew how to cook.

After going abroad for her studies, Wen Jiu tried again, unable to stomach the local cuisine, and managed to improve just a bit beyond her first attempt.

Knowing his daughter's cooking skills, Wen Zhan, not trusting her to fend for herself, even hired a domestic cook to take care of Wen Jiu’s daily meals.

Now, Wen Jiu’s interest in cooking had been rekindled, and she decided to give it another try.

With enthusiasm, she ordered several ingredients and, taking advantage of her free evening, began learning to make home-style dishes.

An hour later, Wen Jiu stared at the unappetizing, even less palatable cola chicken wings before her and promptly extinguished any further desire to learn how to cook.

It was just too difficult.

Never again! Wen Jiu cried out silently in her heart.

After cleaning up the chaos in the kitchen, Wen Jiu concluded she’d simply been looking for trouble.

After a shower and seeing that it was getting late, she went to bed.

The next day was Friday.

Wen Jiu had just arrived at the office when she noticed her colleagues all wore bright smiles, seemingly more energetic than usual.

Thinking of Shen Mengxia’s work attitude, Wen Jiu couldn’t help but smile.

All of them, workers eagerly looking forward to the weekend.

Wen Jiu was no exception.

She cherished her time alone at home, free to do whatever she pleased.

She could sketch designs, practice yoga, catch up on dramas or variety shows.

Upon her arrival, her colleagues greeted her warmly.

Xie Meng, who had just arrived herself, took Wen Jiu by the hand and explained the day's arrangements.

“Jiu Jiu, our design department plans to host a welcome dinner for you tonight. What do you think? I’ll add you to our department group chat.”

Wen Jiu felt lucky to have encountered such friendly colleagues.

After spending the whole previous day together, she’d seen their diligence, the orderly division of work, and—most precious of all—their mutual understanding and trust.

She took out her phone, added Xie Meng on WeChat, and was soon pulled into the department group.

As soon as she joined, a flood of welcome stickers greeted her.

Wen Jiu thanked everyone in the group, then quickly threw herself into work.

The day flew by, and the workload was noticeably heavier.

There were several major design projects still unfinished; yesterday had only been an introduction, and today was the real start.

Wen Jiu planned to take the drawings home, so she could sketch whenever inspiration struck over the weekend.

Soon, it was time to clock out. After confirming the time and location with her colleagues, they all gathered at the reserved restaurant.

The welcome dinner was a department tradition, held for every new hire to help them integrate quickly and smoothly into the team, working together and progressing as one.

They booked a private room at the restaurant. Once everyone arrived, they welcomed Wen Jiu into the department.

The harmonious atmosphere swept Wen Jiu along, and she happily joined their conversations and games.

She raised a glass to them and spoke a few heartfelt words.

“Thank you all for letting me feel such warmth in this big team from the moment I arrived. I believe, with our joint efforts in the design department, we will achieve even greater success together.”

She finished with a deep bow.

Her colleagues applauded, and the room quickly grew lively again.

After several rounds of drinks, it was already past ten at night.

Wen Jiu had had quite a bit to drink, but not enough to be drunk.

She made sure everyone had safe transportation home before hailing a ride herself.

The alcohol hit her as she rode home, making her feel uncomfortable.

Leaning against the elevator wall, Wen Jiu closed her eyes to rest.

Once home, she opened the fridge and found the honey she’d bought days ago, brewed some honey water, and finally felt a bit better.

After a quick shower, she climbed into bed and fell asleep early.

The next morning, she woke up naturally.

Since she’d gone to bed early, it was only about eight when she woke.

After washing up, she made herself a simple sandwich for breakfast and then began considering how to spend her weekend.

Just as she was thinking, the WeChat notification sounded.

Wen Jiu saw a message from Gu Zehuai.

“Are you at home? Do you have time?”

Though puzzled by his sudden contact, she replied,

“I’m home. What’s up?”

His response was quick.

“Gu Yulin is here, clamoring to see you—wants to play with you for a while.”

Seeing the message, Wen Jiu thought of Gu Yulin’s adorable face and replied with a yes.

She tidied up, changed her clothes, and went next door.

After ringing the doorbell, the door soon opened.

Wen Jiu looked closely—Gu Zehuai and Gu Yulin stood one after the other in the entryway, waiting for her.