Chapter Thirteen: A Happy Event

Xiao Liu shook his head with a mysterious smile. "You'll find out when you go. Why ask so many questions now? It's most likely something good anyway."

He Yu Zhu watched Xiao Liu’s retreating figure and muttered to himself, “Why does this kid love to keep secrets so much? But since the factory director called, I definitely have to go.”

He leisurely made his way toward the director’s office.

Just as He Yu Zhu stepped into the office area and before he could steady himself, the factory director’s secretary hurriedly spoke up, her tone tinged with slight displeasure: “Master He, you’re really putting on quite the airs. Our director has been waiting for you quite a while.”

He Yu Zhu’s lips curled into a smile as he replied calmly, “Comrade Secretary, I dare not lightly accept such a grand title. You only told me the director wanted to see me but revealed nothing else. If I am late, I must say a part of the blame lies with you.”

The secretary was about to retort, but the director waved her off.

The director stood, a gentle smile on his face. “Master He, I called you here to ask a favor—an urgent matter.”

“What urgent matter? Please tell me, Director,” He Yu Zhu perked up at once.

“Well, today is the birthday of an old leader. He’s from Sichuan and loves authentic Sichuan cuisine. In our factory, who else can cook Sichuan food better than you?” The director’s words brimmed with expectation.

He Yu Zhu felt a surge of pride but remained modest. “Director, you flatter me. It’s just a meal. One word from you, and I’d gladly go through fire and water.”

“Alright, then go prepare your things,” the director said, turning to arrange the car.

“No need, Director, please don’t trouble yourself. I’ve heard the old leader’s kitchen is well equipped—better than our canteen.” He Yu Zhu waved dismissively, indicating he needed to bring nothing.

Hearing this, the director said no more and stood. “The car is waiting outside. Let’s not delay the auspicious time.”

The group soon arrived at the old leader’s home, and He Yu Zhu was led straight to the kitchen.

The kitchen was truly impressive, stocked with every ingredient and spice imaginable. He Yu Zhu thought to himself: With these, preparing a full Manchu-Han banquet would be no problem.

“Master He, just tell us what you need. We’re all here to assist you today,” said a woman in her fifties, with several young helpers standing behind her—hired for the occasion by the old leader’s family.

Clearing his throat, He Yu Zhu began to organize the work. “Since the old leader is from Sichuan, today we’ll prepare authentic Sichuan dishes. Sichuan cuisine emphasizes a balance of numbing spice, freshness, and aroma. Every step must be precise and meticulous.”

“First, check all the ingredients to ensure freshness. Then separate the spices, vegetables, and meats, and have them ready,” he instructed decisively, and the kitchen bustled into action.

He Yu Zhu sat nearby, holding a tea cup, leisurely planning the menu. He intended to prepare several signature Sichuan dishes for the old leader’s enjoyment.

Soon, the aroma from the kitchen wafted into the living room, prompting lively conversation.

“Oh, it smells wonderful. Just by the scent, you know this is genuine Sichuan cuisine. My mouth is watering,” an elderly comrade chuckled.

“Exactly, that spicy aroma is unmistakable. We’re in for a treat today,” another agreed.

“Ha, you’ve got sharp noses! Today, Xiao Yang specially invited a master Sichuan chef to ensure satisfaction,” the old leader’s son explained.

“This chef is the best cook in the steel rolling plant’s canteen. You’ll have to savor his cooking,” the factory director chimed in.

As they spoke, plates of visually stunning and aromatic Sichuan dishes were brought to the table—Mapo Tofu, Spicy Boiled Fish, Kung Pao Chicken, Spicy Chicken Cubes, dazzling the eyes.

“Alright, everyone, let’s move to the dining room,” the director invited.

The group shifted, and naturally, the birthday honoree had the first bite.

He picked up a piece of Mapo Tofu and tasted it, his eyes lighting up. “Excellent! This Mapo Tofu is utterly authentic!”

Encouraged by his praise, everyone eagerly began sampling the feast.

They soon discovered it wasn’t just the Mapo Tofu that amazed them.

The Spicy Boiled Fish was tender and smooth, spicy but not overpowering;

The Kung Pao Chicken was juicy and tender, perfectly balanced sweet and sour;

The Spicy Chicken Cubes were crispy and fiery…

Each dish drew endless compliments.

“Today’s meal is truly exceptional. The chef’s skill is extraordinary!” the old leader exclaimed, then half-jokingly turned to Director Yang. “Xiao Yang, next time it’s my birthday, can I also try the cooking from your steel plant’s canteen chef?”

Director Yang quickly nodded. “Old leader, not just birthdays—whenever you want, I can arrange for Master He to cook for you!”

Before he finished, a colleague nearby chimed in, “Xiao Yang, don’t forget me! I’m craving that authentic Sichuan flavor too!”

Laughter and joy filled the banquet hall. Director Yang had expected to remain unnoticed in a corner, but thanks to Master He Yu Zhu’s cooking, he became the center of attention tonight.

He secretly felt pleased, thinking how fortunate he was to be associated with He Yu Zhu.

At that moment, the old leader suddenly requested to meet the mysterious chef.

Director Yang immediately rose and personally invited He Yu Zhu to the dining room.

“Old leader, this is Master He Yu Zhu, the chef who prepared your meal,” Director Yang introduced respectfully.

The old leader smiled warmly and regarded He Yu Zhu with kind eyes.

He Yu Zhu stepped forward a few paces and respectfully said, “Old leader, I wish you health and longevity. How do you like today’s dishes?”

The old leader laughed heartily. “Master He, if your cooking didn’t suit my taste, then nothing in this world would be good food!” Then he turned to his wife. “Darling, please bring two boxes of the finest Longjing tea to present to Master He.”

He Yu Zhu hurriedly waved his hands, refusing. “Old leader, madam, please don’t be so courteous. I really cannot accept!”

The old leader found this amusing and asked, “I want to thank you with two boxes of Longjing tea for your cooking. What’s wrong with that?”

He Yu Zhu replied firmly, “It’s truly not appropriate! I’m an ordinary worker at the steel rolling plant. Director Yang asked me to cook for you, and it is my honor.”