William, a country bumpkin at heart, thought to himself, *What’s so special about fish?* Back home, catching fish was so common that people grew tired of eating it. But since this was an occasion to treat guests, he wanted to order something substantial, like a hearty roast or a chicken shank.
Yet, arguing with a state-run restaurant waitress wasn’t worth the trouble, so he reluctantly nodded.
“We’ll have it, along with some other dishes.”
“Uncle, an 18-pound fish is more than enough,” Kay explained to Scarlett Whitaker. “When it comes to fish, size matters. Anything under 10 pounds isn’t fatty enough, and fish over 20 pounds tend to have tougher meat. Eighteen pounds is just perfect.”
His words weren’t only directed at Scarlett; they were a subtle lesson for William as well.
However, Kay’s approach was so smooth that it didn’t come across as patronizing. Even William had to admit that Kay was likable. William thought to himself, *Close call. I almost embarrassed myself before these two polished young men from the capital.*
Even in 1983, when most people’s diets were still meager, Kay didn’t seem like someone lacking money. Sure enough, when the massive fish was served, Scarlett Whitaker realized why state-run restaurants had a reputation for excellence.
The fish was prepared in multiple ways.
One half was sliced thinly and cooked in a spicy broth for a dish of poached fish.
The other half was turned into minced fish paste for fish ball soup. The fish head was steamed with chili sauce, while the fish ribs were deep-fried and served with sesame salt.
One fish resulted in three dishes and one soup, accompanied by generous portions of side dishes. William quietly ate the tender poached fish without a word.
It turned out that fish wasn’t inherently unappetizing; rural folks simply didn’t have the skills or the luxury to prepare it like this.
This meal was hands-down the most satisfying one Scarlett Whitaker had experienced since arriving in 1983.
Yet, the atmosphere during the meal was somewhat tense, mainly because of Leo’s peculiar attitude. Kay subtly gave him a warning look, and Leo finally smiled and raised his glass. Scarlett understood. Leo had accompanied them to the police station, and he probably now knew of Scarlett’s tainted reputation.
She thought to herself, *It doesn’t matter. We’re just passing acquaintances. If they choose to judge me based on rumors, then we simply won’t interact anymore.*
A life-saving debt couldn’t be repaid with just two meals. When Scarlett eventually found success, she would repay them generously. After that, they’d go their separate ways, with no further connection.
Suddenly, a pair of utensils picked up the most tender piece of fish belly and placed it into Scarlett’s bowl.
Scarlett looked up to see Kay smiling at her.
He had such a beautiful smile.
William, watching this, felt as if a cunning fox was eyeing the henhouse. He quickly interrupted the subtle exchange of affection.
“Come on, let’s drink! I’ll toast the two of you again to thank you both for saving Scarlett.”
Kay raised his glass, and Leo didn’t dare refuse.
Kay spoke sincerely, “Scarlett and I hit it off right away. Please, don’t be so formal. Just call me Kay, or even Kay-boy if you’d like. Let me and Leo toast you.”
William, feeling the weight of the situation, reluctantly raised his glass, unsure of how to proceed.
“Kay, watch your words. What do you mean by ‘hit it off’? You can’t just say such things casually!”
Scarlett was undeniably beautiful, so it wasn’t surprising for young men to take an interest in her at first sight. However, to say something like that after knowing her for just one day, and in front of her elder, was too forward. It showed a lack of seriousness and respect. William was upset, regretting his decision to bring Leo along to the police station.
Kay put down his glass and stood up.
“Don’t worry. I’m already 20 years old, and I know what I’m saying. Scarlett’s reputation? Leo just told me about those rumors. But a relative of mine once told me, ‘Don’t define people or things based on what others say. You need to experience and judge for yourself.’
“I have my own judgment about what kind of person Scarlett is. Even if I were to fall for a facade she’s putting on, that’s my choice, and I have no one else to blame. I’m not saying this to demand repayment or to pressure Scarlett into dating me. I just want you to know that I sincerely want to be friends with her.”
Even if Scarlett Whitaker had a complicated past, Kay wouldn’t mind.
Whatever or whoever she loved before didn’t matter. From now on, she would only love him!
