Police Xiao smiled and nodded at her: "Yu, you’re pretty lucky."
He Jinxuan noticed people standing at the doors of their homes, with many glancing over this way, and called to Xiao Tie, "Let’s talk inside."
Yu Xinyan laughed and said, "Come into the courtyard quickly. You’re right on time; the food’s ready, and the meatballs have just been fried—they’re 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 nephew’s cheek with a smile: "You’re quite the little foodie."
Yu Xinyan urged, "Wash your hands quickly; we’re about to eat."
Xiao Tie laughed and said, "No wonder Director He said I have a treat today. I won’t hold back then."
Others wouldn’t 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 wasn’t lying; the food my sister makes is especially delicious. You’ll see when you try it."
Yu Xinyan smiled and patted Silai’s 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 hadn’t started his own because he’d been helping her the whole time.
He Jinxuan directly placed a large piece of fish in Xiao Tie’s bowl: "Here, have some fish."
Xiao Tie didn’t hold back, savoring the fish and giving a thumbs-up: "This taste is truly remarkable, worthy of a chef’s 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; they’ve 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, it’s all thanks to your help—much appreciated."
Xiao Tie lightly patted his shoulder: "Alright, no need to say more between us, but keep it in mind—seize the opportunity."
At first, Yu Xinyan understood, but later she was confused, thinking they were talking about something else. She didn’t 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. There’s a small yard next to the guest house that’s just vacated—it’s a single room, not very large, but perfect for you to live alone. It’s 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, let’s 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 can’t believe how I managed before."
The two little ones heard this and burst into laughter.
After the meal, Xiao Tie didn’t linger much longer. Besides leaving the house keys, he also left a few meat coupons and then departed.