Chapter 105: Backyard Barbecue (Part 4)
Truffle slices and thinly sliced premium beef were threaded onto skewers together and placed on the grill. While Zhai Yunsheng couldn't indulge in too much rich or fatty food, that didn't mean he was completely deprived of meat. As long as it was lean and carefully selected, some moderation was allowed.
Jian Yiling then laid out some foil on the grill, adding slices of morel mushrooms and lobster balls, along with a rich combination of XO sauce, minced garlic, and other seasonings. Once everything was securely wrapped in the foil, the heat and aroma were sealed inside, letting the flavors intensify as they cooked. When the foil was opened a few moments later, a wave of irresistible fragrance wafted into the air, signaling that the dish was ready.
Before plating, Jian Yiling added a handful of fresh Chinese broccoli hearts to the mix. The dish was a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Once everything was cooked to perfection, she plated it for Zhai Yunsheng—a Western-style dish adorned with roasted milk-cap mushrooms, roasted boletes, truffle beef skewers, and morel mushrooms paired with lobster balls. To top it off, she added a few sliced cherry tomatoes as garnish, creating a visually stunning presentation.
The aroma was intoxicating, and the dish looked so elegant and appetizing that even Yu Xi couldn't help but feel envious. Suddenly, the lamb skewer in his hand seemed far less appealing.
Zhai Yunsheng took the plate from Jian Yiling and began eating slowly, savoring every bite with a relaxed demeanor. Meanwhile, Yu Xi and Jian Yujie could only watch with longing eyes, though Zhai Yunsheng completely ignored their expectant gazes, as if he hadn't noticed their hunger at all.
Jian Yiling remained focused on the grill, continuing to prepare the other dishes. Just as she was engrossed in her work, the phone in her pocket started buzzing repeatedly. At first, she chose to ignore it, but when the ringing persisted, she was forced to pause and check her phone.
The screen was filled with messages from her colleagues at the research institute. They had sent her multiple texts, and even called her several times when she didn't respond. Clearly, it was an urgent matter.
Jian Yiling finally replied with a simple message: [?]
Her colleague responded immediately, seemingly relieved: [Oh, thank heavens! You finally replied!]
Jian Yiling calmly replied: [?]
Her colleague's next message was more detailed: [We need your expertise on an urgent case. Remember the one we mentioned earlier? Dr. Qiu, a highly respected figure in the medical field, contacted our deputy director just now. He's hoping that we can take on this case. If you agree to the surgery and it's successful, it could significantly boost your reputation in the medical community.]
Dr. Qiu was a giant in the field of oncology, a legendary figure whose influence spanned far and wide. His endorsement or association with a project was a major honor, and people throughout the medical world sought his favor.
Jian Yiling replied succinctly: [Let's wait a little longer.]
Her colleague, understanding the urgency, responded quickly: [Dr. Qiu is hoping for a definitive answer soon. The earlier the micro-repair surgery is performed, the better the patient's chances of recovery.]
Jian Yiling's reply was resolute: [Don't rush me. Pressuring won't make me act faster.]
When it came to her work, Jian Yiling had her own set of principles and methods. She never let external pressure or the opinions of others dictate her decisions.
After sending the message, Jian Yiling calmly slipped her phone back into her pocket and returned her attention to the grill, resuming her work as if nothing had happened.
But barely two minutes later, another phone began ringing—this time, it was the phone of Old Master Jian.
His phone number was a closely guarded secret, known to only a handful of people. Most people could only reach him through his assistant. So when his phone rang, the entire family immediately turned their attention to him, a wave of tension sweeping through the group. Even those who were usually composed, like Grandma Jian, Jian Shuxing, Wen Nuan, and Jian Yunao, couldn't help but look over in concern.
Old Master Jian answered the call, and a familiar, elderly voice came through the line.
"Old Jian, I'm sorry. I couldn't get it done. The task you asked me to handle—it's beyond me this time."
Old Master Jian fell silent upon hearing this.
The man on the other end of the line was none other than Dr. Qiu, a towering figure in the medical world whose reputation preceded him. His name carried weight far beyond the field of oncology, and anyone who had even the slightest involvement in the medical field knew of him. Most people would go out of their way to show respect to Dr. Qiu, given his prestigious standing.
Yet, despite all of Dr. Qiu's influence, it seemed he had failed in his task. For someone of his stature to admit defeat was no small matter, and the fact that even his direct involvement hadn't swayed the situation was particularly significant.
Old Master Jian's expression darkened slightly as he processed the news. He had not expected even Dr. Qiu's personal intervention to fail.