The first meal
Luis felt excited as he picked up his phone and started scrolling through it. After a while, a smile appeared on his face. This world was just like he remembered, with a culture and entertainment industry completely different from his own. Especially the entertainment here was quite behind, with some mediocre songs even making it to the top of the charts. It turned out that songs famous in his world were all impressive when brought to this world. With his phone tightly gripped in his hand, Luis quickly realized the classic songs from his world were slowly surfacing in his mind. Lost in his thoughts, Luis gradually succumbed to sleep, entering dreamland slowly.
The next morning at precisely six o'clock, Luis, whose body clock was well-set, woke up on time. He opened his eyes, staring blankly at the unfamiliar surroundings, taking some time before remembering he had crossed worlds. The early summer morning was bright, sunlight streaming through the curtains and casting a warm glow on Luis. He rolled out of bed, opened the window, and took in a deep breath of the fresh morning air. Since the crossing was a fact and this world wasn't so bad, he decided to embrace living here.
Stretching lazily, Luis turned and gently opened the bedroom door, revealing the worn-out sofa still in the living room. The dining table and kitchen were spotlessly clean, likely tidied up by Anna after dinner last night. Normally, Anna took care of all the housework, and she continued to maintain the cleanliness of the house. After a night of airing, the smell of alcohol in the room had dissipated significantly. Standing there for a moment, Luis tiptoed into the bathroom for his morning routine.
He knew Anna typically woke up at 8 a.m. to cook, as the previous Luis used to sleep until past ten. Only after he got up and finished drinking would both of them eat the leftovers. "Sigh," Luis unconsciously let out a sigh and quickly finished washing up. Anna, already awake, heard the commotion from the bathroom outside but hesitated to come out. She was unsure why this 'devil' had suddenly woken up so early, having been acting strangely since waking up drunk yesterday. Anna couldn't comprehend his intentions.
The sounds of Luis' morning routine faded, and the door closed. Anna puckered her lips, her eyes fixed on the bedroom door, curiosity taking hold. Where was he going this time? After waiting for a while with no more commotion, Anna glanced at her still-sleeping dog, Cicc. Gathering her courage, she quietly got out of bed, opened the bedroom door, and stepped out.
The room's air was fresher, with a hint of hand soap mixing with the scent blowing in through the window. Anna stood by the window, looking out at the world, momentarily lost in thought. It was only then that she remembered she was only 24 years old.
Soon, the door creaked again, startling Anna. She turned mechanically to find Luis standing there awkwardly, surprised that Anna was already awake. Having realized there was no food at home after washing up, he had quickly gone out to buy some food and vegetables, as well as rice. Both of them froze, with Luis finally getting a clear look at his 'wife.' She was beautiful, more beautiful than the internet celebrities in his original world. Particularly captivating were her almond-shaped eyes, now filled with fear and unease.
Realizing she was too thin, pale-faced from lack of sunlight and malnutrition, Luis felt a mix of pain, remorse, and embarrassment. "Uh, good morning. I'll go cook now," Luis broke the awkward silence, lowering his head and hastily walking into the kitchen. Anna remained in a daze, having expected the worst from Luis, now stunned by his changes.
Luis had shaved, styled his hair, transformed into an almost entirely new person. His eyes held cleanliness, guilt, and a hint of the care they should have always shown. Quietly observing him in the kitchen busily preparing food, Anna felt overwhelmed. She held back tears, wondering what this situation was. Feeling pity for herself? Conscience catching up?
Funny, isn't it? The devil revealing a conscience? Do you believe it? 'Mommy!' Cicc, now awake, came out barefoot, looking around anxiously. Spotting Anna in the living room, Cicc ran over and hugged her leg. Catching a whiff of the food in the kitchen, Cicc's eyes lit up, peering eagerly towards the kitchen. Luis smiled at the little one but noticed Cicc retreat in fear behind Anna.
Awkwardly scratching his nose, Luis suddenly felt a pang of discomfort, like he was running out of air. Being a rookie in relationships, he found it challenging to understand how to please a child. Soon, the meal was ready. Luis removed his apron, washed his hands, and quietly instructed, 'Freshen up and come eat.' Despite Cicc's mouth watering, she hesitated. Luis defeatedly sighed, 'You guys go ahead,' rose, and disappeared into a side room.
Anna remained still, watching Luis shut the door behind him. After a moment, she sighed softly and urged Cicc to wash up and eat. At the table, a warm pot of congee made by Luis was ready, along with two side dishes and a bowl of stewed eggs. At the sight of the eggs, Cicc's eyes sparkled, her face lighting up with a childlike smile. 'Mommy, is this meal from Daddy?' Anna hesitated, eventually nodding in response, witnessing Cicc's joy.
It was the first time her father had cooked for her, and it was delicious! As Anna silently ate her meal, she found the food appetizing. Her heart was conflicted and confused, her gaze involuntarily drawn to the closed door of the side room.