The moment Su Qinglan returned, the small open kitchen behind the house became lively again. The air quickly filled with the smell of fresh fish and firewood, and the quiet house turned warm and busy.
Hu Yan had already prepared the fire, and when he saw Su Qinglan rolling up her sleeves, ready to cook, he paused for a moment.
"Lan Lan, you just came back. You should rest," he said softly, stepping closer as if to stop her.
But Su Qinglan only smiled, her eyes bright and full of energy. "I am not tired," she replied lightly. "I want to cook today."
Looking at her spirited expression, Hu Yan stopped himself.
For the past many days, she had been tense and worried. He had seen it clearly. Now that she was finally smiling like this again, he did not have the heart to stop her.
"…Alright," he said in the end, his voice gentle. "Then I will help you."
Su Qinglan nodded happily, and soon both of them began to bustle around the kitchen.
