The Hidden Immortal Leisurely Life

The scent of simmering broth filled the small house, carrying a warmth that softened the evening air. Xu sat by the open window, eyes half-lidded as he listened to the quiet clatter of dishes inside. Yue hummed under her breath, the melody light and teasing, as if she knew he was listening.

"Are you going to sit there all night?" she called from the kitchen.

Xu didn't answer. Instead, he watched the distant mountains, where the last traces of sunlight melted into the horizon.

Yue emerged a moment later, carrying two bowls. She set them down on the table and sat across from him, propping her chin on her hand. "I'm starting to think you enjoy sulking."

"I'm not sulking."

She pushed a bowl toward him. "Then eat."

He glanced at the meal steaming rice, vegetables, and a rich, fragrant broth. It was simple, but it was good. He picked up his chopsticks and took a bite, chewing slowly.

Yue watched him, resting her cheek against her palm. "I made it extra good today."

He raised an eyebrow. "And why's that?"

"Because," she said, smiling, "you seemed deep in thought. I figured food might pull you out of it."

Xu scoffed quietly but took another bite.

Yue leaned forward, tilting her head. "What were you thinking about, anyway?"

He didn't answer immediately. Instead, he set down his chopsticks, fingers tapping lightly against the table.

Finally, he spoke. "You said earlier that names shape people."

Yue blinked. "I did."

His gaze met hers. "Then what shaped you?"

The question caught her off guard. She wasn't used to him asking about her. Usually, she was the one prying into his thoughts, chipping away at his silence with endless teasing.

She smiled, but it didn't quite reach her eyes. "Wouldn't you like to know?"

"I wouldn't have asked otherwise."

She looked down at her bowl, stirring her food idly. For a moment, she didn't speak. Then, her voice softened.

"I was born into someone else's story," she murmured. "A name I didn't choose, a life I didn't want."

Xu didn't move, letting her words settle between them.

Yue looked up, her golden eyes flickering with something unreadable. Then, just as quickly, the mischief returned. "But that's a boring tale, and I much prefer entertaining ones." She grinned. "Like the story of the brooding man who refuses to admit he likes having me around."

Xu exhaled through his nose, picking up his chopsticks again. "Eat your food."

Yue laughed, but she didn't push further.

For now, that was enough.