THEY sat by the window and watched the last traces of daylight disappear beyond the glass. The restaurant was small and intimate with hanging lanterns throwing a soft light over the dark wood interior.
The food arrived gradually. First came the chilled sliced beef glistening with chili oil, followed by a steaming bowl of fish soup with pickled greens. A clay pot of braised pork belly was set between them next, along with a plate of stir-fried greens.
Luo Yan picked up a slice of pork belly with his chopsticks and held it toward Shen Ji Yun. "Try this."
Shen Ji Yun leaned in and accepted the bite. After chewing for a moment, he nodded. "It's good."
Luo Yan smiled. "I knew you'd like it."
Reaching across the table, Shen Ji Yun picked up a slice of the chilled beef and held it out instead. "Then this one's for you."
Luo Yan opened his mouth without hesitation. The beef was cool against his tongue, followed by the gentle heat of the chili oil. He gave an approving hum.
