Chapter 671 - 664_1
Wang Dachuan was the best cook in their household, so it was most appropriate that the meals for Minister Li were left in his hands. However, those with some abilities tend to have their quirks or self-regard, and Wang Dachuan was no exception. He was so engrossed in his culinary skills that he didn’t bother much with other servants unless they were particularly to his liking.
Minister Li was considered a rather distinguished guest in their home, and Lin Yue didn’t trust this matter to be conveyed by servants. She felt more at ease doing it herself, lest Wang Dachuan disregard what a servant said and cause a mishap.
"Madam, for such a trivial matter, you could have just sent a servant to tell me," said Wang Dachuan, "you needn’t have made the trip yourself. Rest assured, I will use all my skills to prepare the signature dishes and treat that guest well, guaranteeing his satisfaction." Lin Yue was the person Wang Dachuan admired and felt the most grateful toward in his life. Whatever she requested, as long as she spoke, he would certainly handle it perfectly.
After a trip to the kitchen and having obtained Wang Dachuan’s assurance, Lin Yue felt relieved. She thought it over and decided to take some aged fine wine from the cellar to send to Minister Li. Most food connoisseurs tended to enjoy good wine as well, and she hoped that these few jars of wine would be to Minister Li’s liking.
Lin Yue guessed right. Once the wine was delivered to Minister Li, just the aroma from unsealing the jar let him know it was from aged old cellars, fragrant and rich. The scent alone made one feel tipsy and utterly suited his taste. This was better than any gold or treasure he could have received. Lady Lin was indeed a clever woman, considerate and thorough in her actions. For the sake of this wine, he would have to take extra care of Zhao Erhu and his wife if they ever encountered any issues in the palace.
"Such fine wine. Please return and convey my thanks to Lady Lin," said Minister Li, "tell her I am thankful for her generous gesture. Should Lady Lin have any requests in the future, as long as it’s within my power, I will do my best." True to the nature of a food lover, Minister Li, usually so tight and shrewd, easily gave such a promise for a few jars of wine.
Lin Yue was indeed catering to his preferences, with the intent to make Minister Li’s stay comfortable and happy, laying the groundwork for future relations. Hearing such promising words from him was an unexpected joy.
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Inside the Government Office of Xin’an City