C18 Death Penalty

Du Binn chuckled at Zhang Jiahao's clumsy maneuvers, his novice status betrayed by his awkward handling.

Secretary Wang, however, was a study in contrast. With a delicate touch, he prodded the bun's skin with his chopsticks, ensuring it remained intact before setting it onto his plate.

He then carefully made a small opening at the top of the bun, releasing a plume of steam.

The aroma intensified with the escaping heat, prompting a look of sheer satisfaction to wash over Secretary Wang's face.

Once the steam had dissipated, he gracefully dipped the bun in sauce and savored it bite by bite.

His meticulous movements suggested a reverence for the culinary masterpiece before him, a caution reserved for only the finest of feasts.

The entire experience seemed to delight Secretary Wang, the soup dumplings living up to his expectations.

Meanwhile, as the two indulged, onlookers outside found themselves involuntarily salivating at the scene.

They swarmed into the restaurant, eager to place their orders.

"Boss, I'll take a steamer," called out one, making a beeline for the counter.

"Same for me," another voice chimed in.

"I'll have one too," echoed a third.

The sight of orders being placed unleashed a frenzy, with everyone rushing to get their hands on the coveted soup dumplings, fearful they might run out.

Yet, each person only requested one serving, mindful of the steep price. A few onlookers, with less to spend, watched longingly.

Their jobs were decent, but their means modest. For them, a single serving of soup dumplings, at three hundred and twenty-three yuan, was a splurge. Still, their desire held them there, reluctant to walk away empty-handed.

It was then that a tall man proposed a solution, "Since we all want a taste of these delectable buns, why not chip in and share a steamer?"

His idea was met with nods of agreement, striking a balance between their craving and their pride. It was a chance to enjoy the treat without breaking the bank. Why not, indeed?

"Boss, we'll have an order of buns too, please."

Du Binn regarded the group without a hint of mockery, offering them a warm smile instead.

"Take a seat, I'll bring them right over."

Before long, Du Binn emerged with a basket of steaming buns.

The group, much like Zhang Jiahao, couldn't resist the aroma any longer and began to dig in heartily.

Many of them were novices at eating buns, carefully inhaling to avoid spilling any of the savory juices.

Each person had their own unique way of eating, but one thing was universal—their faces glowed with contentment.

"Boss, your skills are truly impressive. I retract my earlier comments; I've never had buns this delicious before."

Zhang Jiahao was the first to finish his bun. Despite his pride, he was an honest man who could graciously accept defeat and give credit where it was due.

Having savored Du Binn's small buns, he promptly offered an apology.

"Boss, your cooking is exceptional. I dare say it surpasses even that of the executive chefs at five-star hotels."

Secretary Wang smacked his lips appreciatively as he complimented.

"Boss, these small buns are fantastic."

"Indeed, no wonder the scent was so enticing."

"Absolutely, the aroma alone was enticing, but the flavor is even more amazing once you taste it."

By now, the rest of the group had nearly finished their meal, lavishing Du Binn with compliments.

"Boss, could I get another basket of buns? They're just too tasty, and one serving isn't enough."

Zhang Jiahao was still craving more.

"I'm terribly sorry, but our establishment has a policy of serving only one portion of each dish to our customers," Du Binn explained, pointing to the rule displayed on the wall.

"What? There's a limit?"

Zhang Jiahao stared at Du Binn in disbelief. This was the first time he had encountered such a policy. Most businesses would encourage customers to buy multiple servings, but this restaurant was different, offering just one serving per customer.

"Yes, that's our policy."

Du Binn smiled at Zhang Jiahao. Limiting the quantity of such delectable food prevented waste and maintained its special quality. Moreover, the policy was a system setting that he couldn't alter.

If he could, he'd sell more, clearing the village debt that much sooner.

Zhang Jiahao eyed the rule on the wall, a twinge of reluctance in his heart. He implored, "Boss, rules are rigid, but people are flexible. Can't you bend them a little?"

Zhang Jiahao was craving another serving of the Soup Dumplings; the last batch was scrumptious, and he hadn't had his fill.

"Exactly, boss. We're still hungry. How about another serving, please?"

"Right, boss. There's no soy milk or porridge here. Just one more serving of Soup Dumplings – we're not yet satisfied."

The crowd joined in, each person adding their plea.

"Rules are the backbone of order; I ask for your understanding," Du Binn responded, bowing his hands to the crowd. "Moreover, our eatery does offer porridge. Our Sweet Osmanthus Lotus Porridge is truly exceptional."

"And don't forget our Golden Egg Fried Rice. It's delicious too. If you're still hungry, try the Golden Egg Fried Rice set. It'll leave you content."

But as they glanced at the menu and saw the prices, their appetites waned.

Realizing Du Binn was firm, Zhang Jiahao backed down. Now that he knew the place, he could always return. So, he spared Du Binn any further hassle.

"Boss, you've got a knack for business, and your Soup Dumplings are top-notch. Looks like I'll have to come back for another taste," he conceded.

With that, Zhang Jiahao departed. Prideful as he was, it was unusual for him to swallow his pride before Du Binn. To maintain his dignity, he made a swift exit.

The person who had supported Zhang Jiahao watched him go and held their peace.

Once Zhang Jiahao was gone, the others didn't want to hinder Du Binn's business and left with a sense of reluctance.

Among the diners were some netizens who, after enjoying their buns, refrained from causing a stir. Instead, they uploaded their photos online. The images and captions they shared soon went viral, stirring up excitement.

Particularly the woman who had spoken earlier, she garnered the most comments online.

Her name was Zhang Jiali, naturally beautiful, she enjoyed sharing her photos on the web.