Evening.
A low-profile black sedan slowly pulled up in front of a bustling street-side eatery called "Meat Galore."
In the driver's seat, Gu Feng, dressed in casual business attire and looking every bit the successful man, grinned at Gu Luo beside him.
"This place has the real deal—guaranteed to leave an impression after just one bite."
"Oh?" Gu Luo peered through the window at the timeworn establishment.
Outside, tables and chairs sprawled across the open space, packed with lively diners whose laughter and chatter filled the air. The place was thriving.
The scent of stir-fried dishes and sizzling skewers mingled into a uniquely intoxicating aroma—a signature of street food stalls—teasing the senses relentlessly.
"You’ll see what I mean once you try it," Gu Feng said, smoothly braking and parking the car along the roadside.
Then, he led Gu Luo toward "Meat Galore."
"Table for two, boss?"
On the steps out front, a woman in her fifties—Sister Wang—spotted them approaching. Her face lit up with a warm smile as she hurried over, notepad and pen in hand. But upon recognizing Gu Feng, she gasped in surprise.
"Ah Feng?"
"Long time no see, Sister Wang," Gu Feng greeted cheerfully, then patted Gu Luo beside him. "This is my son, Gu Luo. Just call him Xiao Luo."
"Xiao Luo, say hello to Aunt Wang."
"Aunt Wang," Gu Luo said politely.
"Oh, Xiao Luo, is it? My, what a handsome young man!" Aunt Wang’s eyes sparkled as she took in Gu Luo’s tall, striking figure. "Goodness, you’re a heartbreaker, aren’t you? Bet the girls at school are all over you."
"Ahem..."
Gu Luo coughed lightly, embarrassed—though it wasn’t exactly untrue.
"Hah, still shy, I see!" Aunt Wang teased before turning to Gu Feng, who wore a proud grin. "I’ll admit, clothes really do make the man. That outfit of yours looks expensive—I almost didn’t recognize you!"
"Must be doing well for yourself, huh? No wonder you’ve been away so long."
Gu Feng chuckled awkwardly. "Just busy, that’s all. See? The moment I had time, I came straight here."
"Oh? Not in sales anymore? Honestly, back then you really—"
"Nah, I drive for the boss now," Gu Feng cut in quickly, jingling his keys and pointing to the parked car. "See that? I’m behind that wheel every day."
Aunt Wang followed his gesture and gasped again. "Wow, that’s a luxury car! Must’ve cost a fortune, right?"
"Something like that," Gu Feng replied vaguely, then rubbed his stomach with a grin. "Anyway, I’m starving. Been craving this place forever."
"Got it. The usual, then?"
"Yep. And a crate of beer. I’ll call a driver after."
"You got it! Grab a seat—I’ll grill your order myself."
With that, Gu Feng and Gu Luo settled at a quieter corner table.
The cool night breeze drifted by, refreshing and pleasant.
Soon, Aunt Wang returned with a crate of beer, still grinning. "Ah Feng, you still hold your liquor these days?"
"Not like before," Gu Feng admitted, then nudged Gu Luo with a smirk. "But I can start training this kid."
"Fair enough. A man doesn’t need to smoke, but he’d better know how to drink!"
After Aunt Wang left, Gu Feng grabbed a bottle and expertly popped the cap off with his teeth.
Pop. He slid the beer toward Gu Luo.
"Alright, kid. Now that we’re here—spill. What’s going on?"
Gu Luo hesitated, then took a swig before speaking solemnly.
"Dad... what if I fell for one of the girls at home? Would you be okay with that?"
............
............