Gourmet: The Master Chef Just Wants to Leisurely Set Up a Stall - Chapter 49

With just a few words from Dong Mei, Zhao Xiaojing realized she had hit another nerve.

“Auntie, I’m doing honest work at the construction site, not some shady job. The person who recommended me tasted my cooking and kindly referred me. This construction company is legitimate; we have contracts, and the workers are diligent, honest people—not what you imagine.

Moreover, my stall is supported by regular customers who are kind and helpful. There’s nothing disgraceful about it.”

Zhao Xiaojing tried hard to explain, hoping Dong Mei would understand and not strain their relationship.

“Yes! Everyone outside is good-hearted, all helping you! Buyers love your youth and beauty—who’ll buy from you forever? Thinking outsiders are nice, yet you’d be sold without knowing!

You claimed to want your own career and choices—is this your choice?

I won’t stop you from working, but why can’t you find a reliable, stable job for a young woman?

Hundreds of men on that site—remote and chaotic. What are you thinking, working there? Even if someone introduced you, why accept it but reject a proper match I suggest? What’s on your mind?!”

Familiar accusations rained down, leaving Zhao Xiaojing silent. She hoped the high salary would reassure Dong Mei, aiming to break the ice gradually, sharing her plans for reconciliation.

“Do you feel no shame or think mixing with lower-class people is glorious?

Lard clouded your judgment! You once vowed only to find proper work and support yourself. If you meant it, I wouldn’t say anything. Look at your job now!

Tomorrow, resign immediately!

If unwilling, tell me the place or I’ll ask Wen Juying—I’ll quit for you! I want to see what place mesmerizes you!”

Dong Mei’s endless scolding turned into familiar authoritative commands.

Initially holding back her temper, Zhao Xiaojing bristled at orders to quit and unsolicited interference.

“Auntie, I won’t quit nor disclose where the site is. Asking Wen Juying won’t get you in—security will stop you; I’ll warn them. I’m twenty-four—my life is mine.”

Zhao Xiaojing clenched her fists, resolute.

“Fine, your life indeed—with shady workers, scruffy hawkers—it’s yours!

I’m meddling, worrying over nothing!

Grown up and independent already—want to kick us out?”

Dong Mei slapped the table in anger, standing abruptly.

“Auntie, that’s not my intention. Your way isn’t mine; these jobs suit me. I can earn independently without relying on anyone. What’s wrong with that?”

“Disgracing us—is that okay? Where’s my face if seen?! A decent girl, rejecting proper work to vend and work on-site!

If insisting on such work, repay me fully—never acknowledge me again. I’ll disown you as my niece!”

Dong Mei panted in anger, threatening Zhao Xiaojing.

“Auntie, if this job disgusts you, fine! I’ll repay within the year!”

“Hmph, bold talk—earning 10,000 makes you confident! Promise repayment this year—what if you can’t?”

Dong Mei mocked, unfazed by the repayment threat.

[Ding~ Main Quest Issued]

[Main Quest: Repay 80,000 within 114 days—accept?]

[Yes/No]

A system task appeared, startling Zhao Xiaojing.

Her first main quest; were previous ones not main? Precise timing—August now, promising year-end repayment—down to days.

Pressure surged, yet Zhao Xiaojing accepted without hesitation, having declared repayment.

“Afraid of repayment? Quit obediently then!”

Dong Mei resumed berating as Zhao Xiaojing returned from the task.

“Auntie, I promised repayment this year—I will. If not, do as you wish!”

“Fine! Fail by year’s end, quit and marry!”

“Deal.”

“Remember your words! No excuses when marrying!”

Dong Mei stormed out, leaving the 10,000 untaken.

Exhaling deeply, Zhao Xiaojing shook her head, calming herself before storing the money in the drawer.

Another argument—her worst-case scenario. Yet a chance to prove herself emerged; hopefully, once repaid, Dong Mei will respect her maturity.

But repaying 80,000 in 114 days—site wages alone won’t suffice—new avenues needed.

Work left spare time—should she set up an evening market stall?

Furrowing her brows, Zhao Xiaojing pondered while browsing the system.

Unconsciously opening the system mall, she found a green summer-exclusive sweet soup recipe marked “Limited Time Sale.”

Original price 300 crossed out—current price 150.

…

Timely indeed! Such grounded promotion—why miss out? Buy!

[Congratulations on acquiring a summer-exclusive sweet soup recipe, 500 experience points—recipe transferring…]

Zhao Xiaojing closed her eyes instinctively.

Vibrant and refreshing summer sweet soup recipes filled her mind. Intrigued, she swallowed involuntarily.

Wow, those colorful concoctions look too enticing!