Chapter 375: Chapter 242: Gray Hide Cloak

Estella, with a veil on her face, had a relaxed smile. Before the match, she had bet that Simmons would win. Mr. Gemini never disappoints.

Estella reached out her hand, and Achilles froze for a moment, then gave a wry smile, “Got it, I’ll have someone move it later.”

“Thank you, Second Brother,” Estella said with a light-hearted laugh.

Simmons and the others paraded around the venue. Regardless of the finals, for them, this was an unexpected victory. It’s just that Li Xin, who always remains hidden and nameless, had an empty spot in his heart.

At this moment, Li Xin ran out as fast as he could. He had experience attending concerts, and carriages were in high demand. He had an important date that night and couldn’t be late.

…

When Li Xin arrived, Ma Liu was already waiting with the ingredients ready. Each food box, plain yet refined, revealed a gourmet’s taste—definitely carefully selected by Ma Liu with his expertise. Of course, Li Xin had already paid for the ingredients. The two began their work. Christie had mentioned she’d return later. With today’s significant event, the Hexbird Society would definitely be working overtime. Everything felt just right.

Li Xin was skilled in cooking, but when Ma Liu truly showcased his culinary prowess, Li Xin could only assist in awe. It’s not wise to compare one’s hobby to someone else’s secret expertise.

Watching dish after dish form like pieces of art, it was truly a pleasure. Ma Liu was completely focused, fully immersed in the creative process of crafting food.

The two were busy for over two hours, and each dish was ready. Some requiring precise cooking times were prepped by Ma Liu so that Li Xin only needed to finish them up. After all, Li Xin was a cook too.

Once everything was set, Ma Liu took his leave, mission accomplished. Li Xin stayed home, waiting quietly for Christie’s return. It felt nice; it would be even better if he had a typewriter so he could work for a bit.

Sigh, even on the Dao Yuan Continent, such diligence should move the readers, don’t you think?

Christie didn’t come back too late, roughly at the agreed-upon time. The editorial department had prepared two narratives, one for a Simmons victory and one for a loss. They certainly hadn’t expected Simmons to win and in such a dashing way. Everyone was working as if on adrenaline, leaving the rest for the president to handle as Christie clocked out.

Upon entering and seeing such a lavish spread, Christie was stunned. She had a keen eye, “Did you kidnap Bocuse?”

“Great eye, Sister, but no, Bocuse should be huddled in the Prince’s place, afraid to come out,” Li Xin said with a smile, “Sit down. I’ll finish up the rest of the dishes, and then we can feast.”

Christie chuckled, in a splendid mood, “I’ll change, and we’ll do it together.”

Pairing up certainly makes work easier, and before long, all the dishes were laid out. With a bottle of Hedan’s golden wine, they raised their glasses together, “Today, we should toast to the brave Simmons.”

“To Simmons, like an eagle!”

Taking a large gulp of the fiery golden wine, Christie was radiant. She tried the delicate cold dish; as soon as it entered her mouth, she felt she might melt. Astonished, she looked at Li Xin, “This is amazing. I think it’s even better than Bocuse’s cooking.”

“You’re too kind, too kind. It’s not that exaggerated,” Li Xin replied with a smile.

“What are you being modest about? It’s not even your cooking. So, where’s the chef?” Christie asked curiously.

“Although it’s not my cooking, I’m the chef’s mentor. Isn’t that impressive?” Li Xin proudly patted his chest. A teacher of a dish is a mentor for life.

“Being impressive isn’t just about talking,” Christie said with a flirty wink, not prying further. “Simmons’ big victory is crucial for our Hexbird Society, triggering a ripple effect. With the Academy’s influence surging, and both the King and the Celestial Principle School stable, it’s hugely beneficial for us as well.”

“The Academy’s influence is so significant largely because of the Society’s efforts. Without this new method of communication, the Academy would have taken much longer and wouldn’t have achieved such effectiveness. There would have been numerous issues during the dissemination,” Li Xin said.

“No need to praise insiders,” Christie laughed. Of course, she knew. “I’ve already sent a telegram to headquarters to commend you, combining your recent contributions in Night Patrol and the impact of the Utopia Mountain saga, it seems enough to put you on the captain training list.”

Li Xin shook his head with a rueful smile, “I don’t plan to devote my life to Night Patrol.”

“I don’t quite understand you. Others would fight for such an opportunity. After all, you’re currently part of Night Patrol, and future matters can be addressed in the future. For now, it’s beneficial, and considering you’re overseas, the constraints are minimal. It brings you advantages, unless you’re planning to rely on me permanently?” Christie said.

“You’ve seen through me. I do plan to live off you, won’t you support me?” Li Xin smirked mischievously.

Under the table, Li Xin’s leg wasn’t staying put; he was feeling restless. But Ma Liu was really talented; the food was irresistibly delicious. Christie felt the same; the food was so delectable she couldn’t stop. It was extremely tasty, comparable to Bocuse’s but with a different style. She knew her young boyfriend had peculiar talents.

Actually, both were hungry, and with perfect synergy, they devoured the entire feast. Somehow, as if by magic, they found themselves on the bed, and their clothes mysteriously disappeared.

…

“Do you want to move in together?” Christie suddenly whispered after the passion subsided. With Prince Oliver’s defeat and the Academy’s rise, the King’s rule was established; by accumulating enough glory, the Kingdom’s fortune intertwined with the Golden Tree would solidify. Her mission was nearing completion, now only requiring gradual steps forward.

Li Xin, although finding the inn quite nice, knew it wasn’t truly home. He pulled Christie tightly against him, feeling each other’s warmth, “We’ll move first thing in the morning!”

Christie laughed, “I thought you’d mind living in a girl’s house.”

Li Xin rolled his eyes, “Am I that shallow?”

Christie couldn’t help but laugh. Not many could proudly speak about depending on someone like he did, “No need to rush. I still need to prepare, change some furniture, add a few things, and invite some friends for a little celebration. What do you think?”

“Sister, are you planning a public announcement, are you seeking my opinion?” Li Xin asked with a teasing smile, noticing a flicker of expectancy mixed with a hint of worry in Christie’s eyes.

“So, do you agree or do you agree?” Christie bit her lip and asked.

Li Xin flipped, pinning Christie beneath him, admiring her expression in the heated moment,

“Call me brother.”

“In your dreams!”

… Yet another battle on equal terms, desire following resistance …

At the Lirong Inn, with the Dragon Mother absent, the place was unusually calm. Additionally, with Ma Liu taking a rare day off, dinner service was closed, leaving an unsettling quietness for everyone.

Dalivin, having just returned from work, was entangled by a Viscountess for quite a while. Over sixty now, sigh, when will days like this end?

As he neared the inn, getting off the carriage early, he walked to the corner of the street, where it suddenly darkened. The red moon was obscured by clouds at some unknown moment. A familiar suffocating feeling gripped Dalivin. His body trembled slightly, his face shifting with emotion, his hand tightly gripping his side, but a few seconds later, he released it and slowly turned around.

Under the gloomy sky, a tall silhouette, unclear and watching Dalivin, a deep, hollow voice emanated:

“Long time no see, my dear child, my gray-skinned shadow.”

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