Chapter 9
166words
"Spicy Sichuan Kitchen" still occupied its familiar corner in London's Chinatown, though the restaurant had expanded considerably.
Adrian stood at the wok, his movements confident as he tossed ingredients with practiced skill.
"The broth needs more Sichuan peppercorns," Lucy called from across the kitchen, her face glowing with happiness. "The numbing sensation isn't quite right."
"Yes, chef!" Adrian replied with a mock salute, reaching for the jar of peppercorns.
"Oh, by the way," Lucy said, suddenly remembering, "Lilith stopped by earlier."
Adrian froze momentarily. "What did she want?"
"She wanted to try the Blood Curd Stew," Lucy grinned. "And get this—she actually admitted it was delicious! She even asked if I'd teach her Sichuan cooking. Said she wanted to learn to make 'human delicacies.'"
Adrian shook his head, caught between amusement and disbelief. "Lilith wants cooking lessons? Now I've heard everything."
"What's wrong with that?" Lucy teased, bumping his hip with hers. "Are you the only vampire allowed to appreciate Blood Curd Stew?"
