Buying Coal

Gu Zu ceded her position as head chef to Su Shen, who took over the helm. She brought over the marinated beef, picking up a piece and placing it on a clean sheet of paper. "This is done to absorb the moisture on the surface of the beef, making it easier to pan-fry later. Once the moisture is absorbed, it can go into the pan. There's no need for oil, just dry fry," she explained.

Su Shen followed Gu Zu's instructions to the letter, executing the task with an air of professionalism. Soon, the pan-fried steak began to exude a tantalizing aroma. Gu Zu then spoke again, "As for Su Jing, you can make the decision. I'm not opposed to her now."

At the end of her statement, Su Shen let out a soft chuckle. The sound was brief, but deep and pleasant. Just as Gu Zu was savoring the moment, she felt a ticklish sensation on her nose. Su Shen spoke, "Alright, I promise. As long as she shows any signs of reverting to her old self, I'll have nothing to do with her."