C178 Water Plum Restaurant a Letter Hidden in the Cutlery
"Whoosh!"
The car raced forward, splashing through a small puddle before heading onto the highway.
Lin Dong was seated in the passenger seat when he suddenly caught a glimpse of a figure in the flying spray. Upon closer inspection, he realized there was no one there. Shaking off the illusion, he settled back into his seat.
The restaurant Yang Zitan had chosen for dinner was conveniently located, just a ten-minute drive from the Martial Arts Club. It was a Chinese restaurant that had clearly stood the test of time—an established, old eatery named Water Beam Restaurant.
The parking lot in front of the restaurant wasn't particularly large, and by the time they arrived, it was already brimming with vehicles. Numerous cars lined the nearby streets, occupying every available space. Lin Dong was taken aback by the bustling scene. Could the restaurant really be this popular?
After circling the area, Yang Zitan spotted a car pulling out and smoothly maneuvered into the vacated spot. "Come on, the Water Beam Restaurant has been a local favorite for decades. The food is delicious—you're in for a treat," she said, grabbing her purse and signaling for Lin Dong to exit the car.
As they approached the restaurant, there was no one to welcome them—just a string of wind chimes by the door that tinkled crisply in the breeze as they entered. The place lacked the grandeur or upscale vibe of a larger establishment, but it exuded a cozy charm that brought a sense of tranquility.
"Hey, the young lady has arrived. There are just two seats available. Would you like to take them?" a man in his forties or fifties approached with a welcoming smile.
"Sure," replied Yang Zitan, leading Lin Dong to their table.
The seating was made of solid wood with a deep, polished hue that, despite its shine, couldn't hide the patina of age. These pieces lent the restaurant an air of historical depth.
"This place has quite a character," Lin Dong remarked.
"Right? Did you think I'd bring you somewhere mediocre? Just so you know, you're the first guy I've brought here privately. Enjoy the exclusivity," Yang Zitan said with a playful look at Lin Dong.
Lin Dong could only offer a smile in agreement, unsure of what else to say. Just then, the man who had greeted them earlier returned, menu in hand, and presented it to Yang Zitan, inviting her to order.
With practiced ease, Yang Zitan marked her choices with a pen and declared, "That should do it. Any more and we won't be able to finish. Uncle, make sure to stew the crystal pig trotters a bit longer, please."
"Got it, young lady. I remember how you like it. The longer those trotters stew, the more flavorful and tender they become!" The man bantered briefly before leaving with a chuckle.
"Instructor Yang, you seem quite familiar with the local cuisine," Lin Dong commented, smiling as he leaned on the table.
"Of course," Yang Zitan replied confidently. "I've been coming to this restaurant since I was a child. Over the years, I've gotten to know all the staff."
That explained her ease with the place.
Yang Zitan went on, "Their crystal pork trotters are a signature dish here, incredibly tasty. You'll have to try them."
Lin Dong nodded in agreement.
He then asked, "Instructor Yang, what does your family do? You've been enjoying good food at restaurants since you were young?"
Yang Zitan's eyebrows shot up, and just as she was about to respond, her expression shifted to a frown. "Why should I tell you? What's it to a little kid like you?" she retorted.
Lin Dong felt a flush of embarrassment, but his curiosity about Yang Zitan's background only deepened. The events at the Martial Arts Club had shrouded her in an air of legend.
However, without further information from Yang Zitan, Lin Dong knew it wasn't his place to pry.
At that moment, the same man returned, this time with their utensils. They were provided with disposable, sterilized tableware. As Lin Dong unwrapped his set, a small slip of paper fell out. Handwritten in elegant script, it read: "Be careful. When you return to the villa tonight, make sure to put this away after reading."
Lin Dong was taken aback. A note hidden in the sterilized utensils? And the message seemed to be directed at him personally. What could this mean?
