An hour later, Ling Lan and Lin Feng had finished their breakfast. The table was now almost empty, save for a few stray crumbs and the lingering aroma of the dishes they had shared.
"Thank you for the wonderful food, Ling Lan. It was absolutely delicious," Lin Feng said. His tone had softened, becoming far less formal than before.
After their long conversation this morning and sharing a quiet meal together, the air between them felt lighter, more natural.
Both of them were aware of a gentle warmth spreading in their hearts, an unusual, pleasant feeling neither had expected at the start of the morning.
Ling Lan's cheeks warmed slightly at his praise, and she responded with a bright, sincere smile. "I'm glad you liked it, Young Master Lin Feng. I hoped it would be to your taste."
Lin Feng returned a half-smile, more restrained than hers, though his eyes carried a flicker of amusement.
