The First Bloom 25

Jianyu's determination to push Zhenfeng to his breaking point turned into a mission that was as exhausting as it was infuriating. Yet, every attempt to provoke the man seemed to backfire.

Take breakfast the next morning, for instance. Jianyu had meticulously over-salted Zhenfeng's porridge, practically turning it into seawater. He sat across the table, pretending to be engrossed in his own bowl, sneaking glances to gauge Zhenfeng's reaction.

Zhenfeng took a bite, paused for a second as if processing the taste, then looked at Jianyu.

"It's a bit... adventurous," Zhenfeng said, a playful glint in his eyes. "You trying out new recipes or something?"

Jianyu nearly choked on his food. "Adventurous? It tastes like the ocean died in it!"

Zhenfeng shrugged, taking another bite. "Eh, it's not that bad. Thanks for making it, though. I appreciate it."