Chapter: 2627

Jinling Pailou is a popular local restaurant brand in Jinling, known for its authentic Jinling cuisine. It has several branches that the locals love.

As they reached the entrance of Jinling Archway, He Yuanjiang said to Charlie Wade, “My family has lived in Jinling for three generations. I grew up here but later went to the United States for school. After many years away, I’ve returned to live here again. I’ve missed the food from my hometown. Even though my school cafeteria offered a variety of free meals, I would always come here for a taste of real Jinling dishes.”

He then asked Charlie, “Since you’ve lived in Jinling for so long, don’t you get tired of the food?”

Charlie smiled and replied, “I’ve always loved food. During my ten years in the orphanage, I had plain soup and water every day, and I didn’t mind it. Then, when I worked at a construction site, I enjoyed the meals there as well.”

He Yuanjiang sighed and said, “Few people can compare to how you lived before the age of eight. It must have been hard for you to adjust to life afterward.”

Charlie smiled again and said, “When I was young, my parents taught me not to get too happy or too sad about things. So, for me, adapting wasn’t an issue. Whether I was enjoying fine food or eating simple vegetables, it didn’t make much difference.”

He Yuanjiang felt touched and said, “You are just like your mother. In college, she earned a full scholarship through her hard work and even held a job while studying.”

Every day after school, Charlie Wade and his friend He Yuanjiang would visit a restaurant close to their school. Charlie remembered how frugal his mother was. She never wasted money and always taught him to save. He recalled how, at the end of each semester, his mother would use her savings to go backpacking. Back then, everyone thought she came from a poor family, but in reality, her family was quite well-off.

Charlie smiled as he talked about his mother, saying, “She always made sure not to waste anything, not even a grain of rice. My dad is similar. They both don’t care much about material things.”

He Yuanjiang nodded in agreement. “That’s why your parents are such a good match. When they were young, they had already moved beyond wanting money and fame, unlike us who were always chasing after those things.”

With that, He Yuanjiang walked into the hotel, inviting Charlie to join him. Charlie quickly followed him inside, where the lobby was bustling with people.

The local restaurant in Jinling was lively, much like a tea house in Yanjing, with a noisy atmosphere filled with chatter and laughter. In the center of the lobby, a small stage featured two actors performing Kunqu opera.

After entering, He Yuanjiang pointed to the stairs. “I’ve reserved a seat on the second floor. It’s quieter up there. Let’s go.”

“Sounds good!” Charlie replied, and they headed upstairs, where the environment was more peaceful.

When the waiter saw the two approaching, he quickly moved to greet them. “Professor He, welcome!” he said politely.

He Yuanjiang smiled and replied, “Thank you! We’ll take the usual spot. I’ve already spoken to your manager.”

The waiter nodded. “The manager informed me. Please follow me.”

He led them to a cozy deck by the window, featuring a small square table made of logs. It had enough space to seat four people, but the two of them settled in comfortably against the window.

He Yuanjiang slid the menu across the table and said to Charlie Wade, “Charlie, why don’t you order? Get whatever you like.”

Charlie smiled and waved his hand. “Uncle He, I think it’s better if you choose. I’ll eat whatever you order.”

Just then, Charlie noticed two familiar faces not far away by the window. They were the same old man and young boy he had seen earlier in He Yuanjiang’s office.