Chapter 24: Fresh Cream Puffs — Don’t Give Male Customers a Warm Reception…

 

 

Liang Wei’s expression stiffened, and his face immediately flushed red.

 

“N-nothing.”

 

Liu Hexiao pressed relentlessly: “I heard you. If you’ve got guts, say it again.”

 

Cheng Lingwei, following behind, thought to himself that Shizi’s tendency to pick fights was growing worse and worse.

 

Zhou Kaizhi, seeing Liang Wei’s awkwardness, stepped in to mediate: “Brother Liang Wei meant no offense. Young Master may have misunderstood.”

 

Liu Hexiao snorted coldly: “Another hypocrite…”

 

Zhou Kaizhi’s face also stiffened, and he was momentarily at a loss for words.

 

Liu Hexiao glanced them over with disdain and said coldly: “If you’re here to buy something, just buy it properly. Buying a cup of coffee while staring at the young lady? What are you, a toad lusting after swan… duck meat!”

 

Cheng Lingwei, following behind, nearly choked on the spot.

 

Even if Miss Yihuan wasn’t a swan, she certainly wasn’t a duck either, right!?

 

The two young men were equally baffled and had no idea what he meant.

 

Without another glance at them, Liu Hexiao walked past disdainfully and headed straight to the entrance of the dessert shop.

 

The two men, feeling humiliated, left with flushed faces.

 

Liu Hexiao stood at the doorway for a moment and observed. The dessert shop was decorated in soft yellows. High countertops displayed many samples with nameplates. Several customers inside were browsing the shelves, and Yihuan was enthusiastically introducing the items to them.

 

Standing outside the shop, Liu Hexiao gave a slight cough.

 

Yihuan didn’t hear it, but Ah-miao did.

 

Seeing that Liu Hexiao had arrived, Ah-miao quickly came out from behind the counter, curtsying. “Your Highness… Are you here to buy something?”

 

Liu Hexiao cast her a glance. “How is your lady’s eyesight?”

 

Ah-miao, confused, asked, “Her eyesight? My lady’s eyesight is fine…”

 

Liu Hexiao retorted coldly, “Then why can’t she see me?”

 

Ah-miao froze for a moment, then rushed over and poked Yihuan. “Miss… Shizi is here.”

 

Yihuan’s smile faltered momentarily. Adjusting her expression, she turned around with a polite smile: “Shizi is here.”

 

The little tyrant has come again!

 

Yihuan asked, “What orders does Shizi have for us today?”

 

Liu Hexiao, ignoring the question, lifted his robe and sat down at a long table, saying, “Didn’t I hire you as a cook? One hour every day—did you forget?”

 

Yihuan smiled faintly and replied, “Yesterday, I sent someone to the prince’s residence to request for a leave. Did Shizi not know?”

 

Liu Hexiao’s expression remained unchanged: “I didn’t know.”

 

Cheng Lingwei moved his lips as if to speak but ultimately said nothing.

 

Miss Yihuan’s letter was likely still sitting in Shizi’s sleeve… 

 

Yihuan, holding back her temper, continued, “As you can see, the dessert shop is having its grand opening today. I’m truly too busy to step away. I beg for Shizi’s understanding.”

 

Liu Hexiao replied, “The weather has been hot these past two days, and Grandmother hasn’t had much of an appetite. When will you come to prepare something for her?”

 

Yihuan, who had a good impression of the old madam, couldn’t help but ask, “Is the old madam feeling unwell?”

 

Liu Hexiao responded, “Not particularly—she just doesn’t have much appetite and isn’t interested in ordinary food.”

 

Cheng Lingwei, listening, was puzzled. Didn’t the old madam eat lunch with Shizi today?

 

Yihuan hesitated and said, “But I really can’t leave today. How about tomorrow?”

 

Visibly, Liu Hexiao’s expression darkened.

 

Yihuan, quick to read people, immediately said, “It’s rare for Shizi to come here. I’ll treat you to some fresh cream puffs!”

 

Liu Hexiao didn’t even think before refusing: “Not eating!”

 

Yihuan, smiling sincerely, insisted: “This is such a delicious treat—I must offer it to Shizi!”

 

Her eager tone and overly sweet smile managed to quell Liu Hexiao’s displeasure. He said coldly, “What kind of thing is that?”

 

Yihuan quickly brought out a fresh cream puff. It was about the size of a palm, with a slightly cracked golden-brown surface that hinted at a caramelized glaze, giving it a firm and appealing appearance.

 

Liu Hexiao glanced at the “yellow bun” with a bit of curiosity but said nothing.

 

Yihuan deftly prepared some utensils and handed them to him. “This is a fresh cream puff, made with milk, sugar, eggs, and other ingredients. Please give it a try, Your Highness.”

 

Liu Hexiao, still sulking, had no intention of eating at first. But the creamy aroma wafted persistently into his nose, stirring his appetite.

 

Reluctantly, he accepted the utensils, though his face remained stern.

 

Yihuan, inwardly pleased, thought to herself, Foodies are really easy to handle!

 

Under Yihuan’s expectant gaze, Liu Hexiao slowly picked up the cream puff and took a bite.

 

He first tasted the puff’s crust—crispy yet chewy, its texture was rich and sweet, providing a delightful mouthfeel.

 

Then he took a bigger bite. This time, his whole demeanor froze.

 

The silky, smooth cream filled his mouth. It wasn’t just ordinary milk—it was dense and rich, its velvety texture oozing a gentle sweetness that was utterly captivating.

 

The entire experience was pure bliss, enveloping his senses in warmth.

 

Swallowing his bite, Liu Hexiao looked up at Yihuan. “You made this?”

 

Yihuan blinked. “Yes… is something wrong?”

 

Liu Hexiao raised an eyebrow, a dollop of cream still lingering at the corner of his mouth. “Hmm… nothing.”

 

He was never one to offer compliments.

 

Yihuan noticed Liu Hexiao’s expression soften slightly and said, “Then please take your time enjoying it, Your Highness. I’ll get back to work.”

 

Hoping to slip away unnoticed, she returned to assist other customers. She figured that once Liu Hexiao grew bored, he’d naturally leave.

 

As Liu Hexiao ate, his mood visibly improved. He began watching Yihuan as she attended to customers with polite enthusiasm.

 

At that moment, a young woman entered the shop. She looked to be around 18 or 19, with a delicate, attractive face. Her long hair was styled in a duo ma ji (a traditional Chinese hairstyle), and she wore a pink floor-length ruqun (a traditional outfit consisting of a blouse and a skirt). Though youthful, there was an air of maturity about her.

 

The girl wandered around the shop, her interest piqued by the displays. She paused before a section featuring pink desserts, decorated with large, fresh strawberries. The label read: Strawberry Mousse Cake.

 

As she examined the desserts, two women nearby glanced her way, whispering amongst themselves:

 

“Isn’t that her?”

 

“Yes, it’s definitely her. Just look at her—seducing men left and right…”

 

Though their voices were quiet, their words reached the girl’s ears. Her expression darkened.

 

Her maid noticed and asked, “Miss Yunming, is something wrong?”

 

Yunming pressed her lips together and replied softly, “It’s nothing. Let’s leave.”

 

The maid was puzzled. “Miss, you’ve been looking around for so long. Why not buy something?”

 

Yunming replied, “No… I’ve changed my mind.”

 

The maid turned to glare at the two gossiping women. Having finished their snide remarks, the women went to pay for their purchases. Yunming, however, looked dejected and was ready to leave.

 

Seeing this, Yihuan approached her and asked warmly, “Miss, have you found anything you like?”

 

Yunming offered a faint smile. “I couldn’t decide. I was just browsing.”

 

Unlike typical courtesans, Yunming’s beauty carried an understated shyness that made her seem more vulnerable.

 

Yihuan said, “I think the strawberry mousse cake would suit you perfectly. Why not try one?”

 

Yunming hesitated. She did like the cake. Her maid, Cui’er, encouraged her, “That’s right, Miss. You rarely come out—treat yourself.”

 

After a moment of thought, Yunming nodded. “Alright, I’ll take one.”

 

Yihuan carefully wrapped the cake and brought it to the counter.

 

The two gossiping women had just finished paying and sneered at Yunming as she approached.

 

“How disgraceful that courtesans are wandering the streets now. Isn’t seducing men in the brothel enough? Must they flaunt themselves in public?”

 

“Exactly. And now she’s buying the same desserts as us. How unlucky.”

 

Yunming’s face turned pale. The strawberry mousse cake in her hand suddenly felt unbearably heavy.

 

Her maid, indignant, snapped, “What nonsense are you spouting? She’s buying a cake with her own money—it’s none of your business!”

 

One of the women smirked. “How do you know it’s her money? It might as well be our husband’s.”

 

Yunming froze, humiliated. “I don’t want it anymore,” she said softly.

 

Once a young lady from a respectable family, Yunming had fallen into the brothel business after her family’s downfall. The women’s cutting remarks stirred a deep sorrow in her, bringing tears to her eyes. She set the cake down and pulled her maid away.

 

Yihuan quickly followed her out. “Miss!”

 

Yunming stopped and turned hesitantly. “I’m sorry for the trouble. I asked you to wrap the cake and didn’t even pay for it…”

 

Yihuan shook her head. “It’s no trouble. Please accept this cake as a gift.”

 

Yunming blinked in surprise. “A gift? Why?”

 

Yihuan smiled gently. “Because I could tell you liked it—you looked at it for quite a while.”

 

Yunming hesitated. “I did… It’s beautifully made.”

 

Yihuan said, “I’m glad you appreciate it. My goal is to make desserts that bring joy to others. But more importantly, you’re also my customer, and I don’t want you to feel wronged here.”

 

She handed Yunming the box. “Regardless of what others say, you are always welcome here.”

 

Tears welled up in Yunming’s eyes. “You… you’re not ashamed of me?”

 

Yihuan’s clear gaze held no trace of judgment. “To me, every customer is equal. There’s no distinction between high and low.”

 

Yunming was deeply moved. She accepted the cake, saying, “I’ll remember this. I’ll come back.”

 

After sending Yunming off, Yihuan returned to the shop, only to find Liu Hexiao still lounging at the table.

 

His plate was empty, and he was watching her with amused interest.

 

Why hasn’t he left yet…

 

Feigning calm, Yihuan asked, “Your Highness… What are you looking at?”

 

Liu Hexiao smirked. “A cunning little fox who knows how to charm everyone.”

 

Yihuan paused, then smiled politely. “Do you like what you see?”

 

Liu Hexiao leaned back lazily. “Very much.”

 

With his handsome face, slightly tilted peach-blossom eyes, and playful voice, he exuded an irresistible charm.

 

Yihuan steadied herself and replied, “I simply don’t want anyone to leave my shop with unpleasant memories.”

 

He chuckled lightly. “You should’ve given her more cakes.”

 

“Why?”

 

“You’ll find out soon enough.”

 

 

 

At Yunlai Inn, many scholars had gathered, preparing for the upcoming imperial examination.

 

Many of these scholars arrived in the capital months in advance. This gave them time to adjust to the environment of Shengjing, network with other scholars, and gather crucial information about the exams.

 

Two such scholars, Liang Wei and Zhou Kaizhi, were engaged in their studies.

 

“Brother Zhou, your poetry today was truly inspiring!” Liang Wei exclaimed as he admired Zhou Kaizhi’s latest composition.

 

The two often studied together. That afternoon, they had brought back coffee from the sweet shop, which Zhou Kaizhi claimed had fueled his creativity.

 

Zhou Kaizhi smiled modestly. “You’re too kind, Brother Liang. I merely wrote what came to mind.”

 

Zhou Kaizhi was a reserved and scholarly man, with a refined demeanor. Liang Wei, in contrast, came from a wealthy general family and was straightforward, even brash at times.

 

“Honestly, I’ve never felt so alert in the afternoon. It’s odd,” Zhou Kaizhi remarked, frowning in thought.

 

Liang Wei suddenly lit up. “Do you think the coffee had something to do with it?”

 

The two exchanged a look, as if they had discovered a secret weapon for success.

 

At that moment, a knock came at the door. Liang Wei got up to answer and found Pei Yin standing there.

 

Pei Yin was a fellow scholar, known for his striking features and penetrating gaze. He greeted them with a warm smile. “Have you two finished studying for the day?”

 

“We’re just about to be done,” Liang Wei replied. “Why don’t you join us for dinner later?”

 

Pei Yin, from another region, had a reputation as a prodigy. He had been composing poetry since the age of five and was highly respected among the scholars.

 

As Pei Yin entered, his nose caught a faint aroma. “What’s that scent? Were you eating something just now?”

 

Liang Wei responded absentmindedly, “Oh, we tried some sort of incredible wine. After drinking it…”

 

Zhou Kaizhi quickly interrupted, “The taste was quite pleasant, that’s all.”

 

Pei Yin’s expression turned serious. “Wine? During your studies? The exams are imminent—how can you afford to indulge like this?”

 

Liang Wei waved dismissively. “It’s not what you think! This isn’t ordinary wine. We drank it to…”

 

But Pei Yin cut him off, scolding, “Regardless of what it is, alcohol dulls the senses! How can you focus on your studies if you’re drinking? Even the best books will be wasted on you.”

 

Zhou Kaizhi nodded diplomatically. “Brother Pei is right. We shouldn’t have indulged while studying.”

 

Liang Wei looked annoyed but refrained from arguing further as Zhou Kaizhi gave him a warning glance.

 

Pei Yin, oblivious to the tension, continued lecturing. “The world is in turmoil, and it falls upon us scholars to strive for excellence. If we don’t succeed in the exams and serve the court, who will safeguard the future of our nation?”

 

Liang Wei muttered under his breath, “It was just one cup of coffee…”

 

Seeing the mood souring, Zhou Kaizhi smoothly changed the topic. “Brother Pei, you’ve made an excellent point. Let’s discuss it further over dinner downstairs.”

 

Pei Yin nodded, satisfied. “I’ll wait for you both there. Don’t keep me waiting too long.”

 

After Pei Yin left, Liang Wei turned to Zhou Kaizhi in frustration. “Why didn’t you let me explain? Now he thinks we’re slackers!”

 

Zhou Kaizhi smiled faintly. “Let him think what he likes. In the end, the results of the exams will speak for themselves.”

 

Liang Wei sighed but couldn’t argue with that logic.

 

The two gathered their belongings and headed downstairs to the bustling dining hall. The inn was unusually lively that evening, as a storyteller had been invited to perform.

 

Liang Wei, noticing the crowd, asked, “What’s the story about?”

 

Pei Yin, already seated, replied, “It’s about Prime Minister Lin. They’ve turned his downfall into a tale of caution.”

 

Zhou Kaizhi frowned. “I heard Prime Minister Lin and his son offended the emperor, which led to his exile in Qianzhou. It’s unlikely he’ll ever return to the capital.”

 

Pei Yin sighed. “A great statesman brought down by petty politics. With the eunuchs gaining influence and corruption rampant, I fear for the future of the kingdom…”

 

Zhou Kaizhi immediately cautioned, “Brother Pei, you should watch your words!”

 

Pei Yin stopped short, realizing the risk of speaking so openly.

 

The mention of Lin Xiang left the group somber. Lin Xiang, once a renowned prime minister and literary icon, had been a role model for many scholars.

 

Sensing the tension, Liang Wei attempted to lighten the mood. “Enough about politics. Let’s talk about something cheerful! Brother Zhou wrote an excellent poem today. It was truly inspiring!”

 

Pei Yin perked up. “May I see it?”

 

Zhou Kaizhi waved a hand. “I wouldn’t dare show my humble work in front of someone as accomplished as Brother Pei.”

 

Pei Yin chuckled. “You’re too modest.”

 

Liang Wei, however, couldn’t resist teasing. “Brother Zhou must’ve been inspired by a certain someone at the sweet shop today.”

 

Zhou Kaizhi’s face flushed red as he quickly retorted, “Brother Liang! Don’t talk nonsense!”

 

Liang Wei smiled and said, “What are you afraid of…… There are no crazy people here. ”

 

Pei Yin raised an eyebrow. “What sweet shop? What crazy people? And who inspired you?”

 

Liang Wei waved dismissively. “It’s nothing. We just ran into a madman today, that’s all.”

 

—

 

“Achoo!” Liu Hexiao suddenly sneezed.

 

Frowning, he turned to Yihuan and said, “Xie Yihuan, are you secretly plotting something nasty to curse me?”

 

He sat comfortably in the dessert shop, having eaten his fill, but showed no intention of leaving.

 

Yihuan replied innocently, “Shizi, don’t wrongfully accuse an innocent person.”

 

Liu Hexiao chuckled lightly, his tone low. “Never mind. It’s getting late—this Shizi should leave now.”

 

Yihuan’s face instantly lit up with a bright smile. “Great, great, I’ll see you out.”

 

Liu Hexiao tilted his head at her. “You’re so eager for me to leave, huh?”

 

Feigning confusion, Yihuan replied, “What are you saying, Shizi? I’m overjoyed to have you grace my humble shop…”

 

Liu Hexiao put on a serious expression. “In that case, I’ll come see you every single day from now on.”

 

Yihuan froze for a moment, then quickly responded, “Shizi has many important affairs to attend to—surely there’s no need to waste precious time loitering in my small shop!”

 

Her face practically screamed “forced smile” in giant letters.

 

Liu Hexiao let out a mocking snort. Rising to his feet, he strolled toward the door.

 

Cheng Lingwei followed closely behind, while Yihuan trailed a step behind them, determined to escort Liu Hexiao all the way out—just in case he decided to change his mind and linger for another hour.

 

The sun was setting, painting the sky in hues of gold and red. Liu Hexiao’s crimson robes seemed to glow as the evening light bathed him, softening his figure.

 

The evening breeze stirred the air, casting his shadow long across the ground. Yihuan, walking behind him, unconsciously stepped on his shadow.

 

Suddenly, Liu Hexiao turned, and Yihuan nearly collided with him.

 

He lowered his gaze, his deep, magnetic voice resonating as he looked at her.

 

“The next time a man comes to buy something,” he said, “don’t treat him so kindly… Understand?”