A few seconds of stillness passed in the room before Jin Jingchen’s voice could be heard, "Where's my father? Is he home?"
"He is. He's currently guiding the aunt in the kitchen on how to cook, celebrating your recovery and discharge from the hospital," Steward Zheng replied with a smile.
Silence fell again in the room. Jin Jingchen didn't ask any further questions.
At this moment, Tang Ran pushed the door open and walked in.
As soon as Steward Zheng saw her, he immediately stepped forward and asked, "Miss Tang, is everything ready?"
"It is," Tang Ran said, her lips curving into a slight smile. She gestured towards several bags by the wall and continued, "Just get those few things into the car."
With that, she put the discharge papers into her bag and, with great composure, pushed Jin Jingchen out.
Steward Zheng, standing behind them, couldn't help but smile. He quickly picked up the items and followed them.
All the way, Jin Jingchen gazed out the window, not uttering a word, his thoughts a mystery.
To break the silence in the car, Steward Zheng occasionally struck up a conversation with Tang Ran.
When the car reached the entrance of the Jin family villa, Jin Zhenting was already standing there to greet them.
Upon seeing Tang Ran alight from the car with them, his face immediately broke into a broad smile.
"Tang Ran, quickly push Jingchen inside," Jin Zhenting said with a chuckle.
The group entered the hall and went to the sofa. Tang Ran immediately took out two items from her bag and handed them to Jin Zhenting.
"Old Master Jin, these are Second Young Master Jin's discharge reports. Please take a look. And this bank card is also being returned to its rightful owner."
"Good. You've worked hard," Jin Zhenting said, looking at her with satisfaction. "From now on, you don't need to address me and Jingchen like this. Just call me Uncle. As for Jingchen, you can call him by his name."
At this moment, Jin Jingchen, who had been silent all along, spoke, "Dad, I'd like to talk to you alone."
"No hurry," Jin Zhenting said, as if he knew what he wanted to discuss. He suddenly stood up. "Let's go. Dinner first. We can talk about anything after the meal. Tang Ran, quickly bring Jingchen over, let's eat together. This meal isn't just to celebrate Jingchen's discharge; it's also a thank you to you."
Jin Jingchen couldn't help but glance at Tang Ran. His father was very considerate. Regardless, this thank-you meal was indeed fitting for her. He said nothing more, allowing Tang Ran to push him to the dining table.
Tang Ran didn't stand on ceremony, graciously accepting Jin Zhenting's arrangement and sitting down beside Jin Jingchen.
"Tang Ran, during this period, you first took care of me at the Jin residence, and then you meticulously cared for Jingchen at the hospital for about half a month. You have been a great help to our family. I'll toast you first." After Steward Zheng poured the wine, Jin Zhenting raised his glass and said to Tang Ran.
Tang Ran felt flattered and quickly stood up. "Uncle, please don't be so formal. Everything I've done is, first, because of my job, and second, to repay Boss Yin for his recognition and kindness."
Saying this, she raised her wine glass with Jin Zhenting and took a small sip.
"Yin Xi is Jingchen's classmate and also a benefactor to our family. It's just a pity that her identity is special, and inviting her for a meal isn't that easy." Jin Zhenting looked at her with a smile. "Whether your coming to the Jin family was for work or to repay a debt, in my eyes, what you've done far exceeds the duties of an employee. I will always remember this kindness. Jingchen, what do you say?"
Jin Jingchen didn't answer his father directly. Instead, he turned to Steward Zheng behind him and said, "Uncle Zheng, pour me a glass of wine."
"Second Young Master Jin. You... you just got out of the hospital, and your wounds have just healed. It's not advisable to drink," Tang Ran immediately said, trying to stop him.
"It's fine, I'll drink a little," Jin Jingchen said, giving her a nonchalant glance, and then repeated to Steward Zheng, "Pour it."
Seeing his earnest expression, Jin Zhenting was secretly delighted.
"Tang Ran, thank you for taking care of me during this time. I toast you with this glass of wine." Jin Jingchen raised his glass, finished his words, and then tilted his head, draining it in one gulp.