Chapter 276: Elena Handed Adrian the Steaming Lunchbox and Quickly Set Out Chopsticks

Elena handed Adrian the steaming lunchbox and quickly set out chopsticks with a small dish of vinegar. Adrian had picked up the local tastes from Pinehaven Village—dumplings just didn't taste right without vinegar.

"Eat while it's hot. They won't be as good once they cool," she urged softly.

Adrian's eyes crinkled into happy crescents. Being cared for by his fiancée warmed his heart. Someone remembering your preferences—that was true happiness.

"Got it!" He dug in right there in the kitchen.

The mutton dumplings the canteen chef had saved for him were still piping hot. Dipped in aged vinegar, each bite was delicious.

In the living room, Elena was helping everyone set up camp beds. The spacious room easily accommodated four cots in a row. Samuel had already claimed his spot, marveling at the unfamiliar bedding—back home, they'd always slept on brick beds.

After finishing his meal, Adrian scrubbed the lunchbox until it shone. Rolling down his sleeves, he emerged to find the makeshift dormitory and chuckled.

"All settled? It's getting late—I'll head back now and pick you up at eight tomorrow to see the house." He checked his watch—already past eight.

Samuel was already snoring under the blankets. Adrian understood—these first-time travelers must be exhausted.

Elena nudged her sister. "Elena, walk Adrian out. Be careful—it's freezing out there." This was her future brother-in-law, after all.

As Elena reached for her coat, Adrian stopped her. "Don't bother—it's twenty below outside. Get some rest." He squeezed her hand. "See you tomorrow."

Only after hearing the car start downstairs did Elena turn from the balcony. The family had already succumbed to sleep, the children's synchronized snores drawing laughter from the adults.

"Lights out," Elena said, switching them off before joining her sister in the bedroom.

Half-asleep, Elena murmured, "Adrian...he's a good man..." before drifting off.

Elena smiled at the ceiling. "Mmm." Yes, he certainly was.

Dawn barely broke when Elena stirred—new places always disrupted her sleep. Elena rose too, and the sisters took their aluminum pot to the canteen.

Back home, millet porridge simmered on the gas stove. They'd bought meat buns, eggs, pickles, and two pounds of fried dough sticks—the three growing boys had hearty appetites.

By their return, Nolan had the children tidy the living room. The folding round table was set, and breakfast became a lively affair.

"Sis, now that you're here, we need to plan your next steps," Elena said, setting down her chopsticks. She had ideas but wanted her sister and brother-in-law's input.

Elena sighed. "My mind's still spinning. I thought we'd find work first—we're not afraid of hard labor."

Elena shook her head. Her sister was still thinking the old way.

Nolan's eyes lit up. "Elena, I've been considering starting a small business. Back when I raised pigs, I saw many build fortunes this way." Having traveled the village, his mind worked differently.

"Exactly!" Elena's eyes sparkled. "The cold weather here is perfect for food service. Tonight I'll cook something special—we'll invite Adrian to taste it. If my recipe works, that's our business!"

In her past life after escaping, she'd worked at a hot pot restaurant. The trend hadn't caught on here yet—perfect timing. Cold weather guaranteed customers.

"Would...that work?" Elena hesitated.

"We'll find out by trying," Elena said confidently. "Adrian's traveled widely—he can help evaluate it too."

Nolan slapped his thigh. "Deal! We'll test it tonight!"

Seeing her sister's shining eyes, Elena finally nodded. "We'll follow your lead."

Elena smiled. She was determined to give her sister a better life. A hot pot business would be the perfect beginning.