Chapter 414

After seeing off the last customers, Luna rubbed her sore lower back. Ryan thoughtfully took the dishcloth from her hands. "Take a rest, honey."

They led the elderly woman and Erniu to the backyard. Walking through a narrow alley, their eyes widened at the sight—four brand-new six-story buildings stood in neat rows.

"You...you bought these?" Erniu's eyes bulged as his rough fingers nervously twisted the hem of his shirt.

Luna smiled faintly. "Yes, we just moved in a few days ago."

The elevator stopped on the fifth floor, and Ryan took out his keys to unlock the door. Warm air rushed out as soon as they stepped inside, making the old woman shiver. "Goodness, why's it so warm in here?"

"Mom, it's central heating," Ryan explained, helping her settle onto the leather sofa before turning on the TV. When the colorful screen flickered to life, Erniu shot to his feet.

Luna started toward the kitchen, but Ryan gently pulled her back. "Sit down. I'll handle it."

The old woman had already rolled up her sleeves with determination. "No arguing—I'll do it!" She marched into the kitchen but froze in confusion. "Why's the stove so bare? Where's the firewood?"

Ryan chuckled as he followed her in and turned the gas knob. With a click, blue flames leaped up, startling the old woman into jumping back.

"Lord above! City folks don't even use firewood to cook?" She cautiously reached out to test the flame, but Ryan quickly stopped her.

"Mom, that's gas—it's dangerous." He patiently showed her how to adjust the heat. "See, turning it this way lowers the flame..."

In the living room, Luna poured Erniu a cup of hot tea. He held the delicate glass cup awkwardly, looking overwhelmed. "Sis, you're really living the high life now."

Before Luna could respond, a wave of nausea hit her. She covered her mouth and rushed to the bathroom, faint retching sounds drifting out.

The old woman hurried over, patting her daughter-in-law's back sympathetically. "Oh, my poor dear, pregnancy's tough, isn't it? From now on, I'm handling all the cooking!"

Ryan handed Luna a glass of water, his eyes full of concern. She rinsed her mouth and gave a weak smile. "It's fine—just can't stand the smell of oil smoke right now."

"Perfect!" the old woman declared. "From today, this kitchen is my territory—no one else steps in!" She grabbed a spatula and stormed back into the kitchen with fierce determination.

Erniu whispered to Ryan, "Bro, that gas tank won't explode, will it?"

Ryan stifled a laugh. "Don't worry, it's safe." No sooner had he spoken than a loud clang came from the kitchen—the old woman had dropped the cast-iron pan.

The three exchanged glances before bursting into laughter. In their new home, the long-missed warmth of a family meal began to fill the air.