This person is clearly a male protagonist in a female-oriented novel, yet he is excessively lucid.

The next morning, as dawn broke, the two found a long-established shop on a street corner and enjoyed an authentic Nanjing breakfast.

A basket of paper-thin xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) is served. Take a small bite and gently suck the broth; the delicious soup bursts on your tongue.

Pair it with a bowl of sweet and smooth Meiling porridge for a soothing and refreshing experience, and finish with a serving of flavorful chicken broth braised tofu.

The tofu, soaked in rich chicken broth, is soft yet chewy, and the more you chew, the more you can taste the savory flavor of the soup base.

The national flags on the street swayed gently in the cool autumn breeze, intertwining with the passing traffic and leisurely pedestrians, becoming a bright spot in the ordinary urban landscape.

After having their meal, the two set off for Anqing.

Yu Chenzhou drove steadily away from Nanjing city and, as usual, turned into the gas station next to the highway entrance to refuel.

While refueling, he habitually walked around the car to check the condition of the tires. As soon as his eyes fell on the right rear tire, he keenly noticed that there seemed to be something stuck in the tire.

He bent down for a closer look and discovered that there was a screw stuck in the tire. Although it wasn't leaking air yet, the consequences could have been unpredictable if it had been discovered any later.

"Luckily, I checked it out of habit."

Yu Chenzhou breathed a sigh of relief and immediately called the gas station mechanic to help him fix the tire.

The mechanic was experienced and quick, and he repaired the tire and inflated it again in just over twenty minutes.

At this moment, Xiao Yilin walked slowly from a shop outside the gas station, carrying two steaming cups of freshly ground soy milk and a bag of freshly made tea eggs. She smiled and handed him the soy milk.

"It's really fortunate. If we had only discovered the puncture in the tire after getting on the highway, it would have been not only dangerous but also troublesome."

Your habit of checking things is so reliable.

Yu Chenzhou took the warm soy milk; the warmth from his fingertips dispelled some of the chill. He gently pinched Xiao Yilin's cheek, his eyes revealing both the lingering fear of realizing the potential danger and the relief of having averted the crisis in time.

"We were lucky to have resolved the problem before getting on the highway."

After everything was in place, the car smoothly entered the G4221 expressway and then switched to the G50 Shanghai-Chongqing expressway. The city scenery outside the window gradually faded away, replaced by a vibrant landscape painting.

At the end of September, the mountains were still a deep green, with clouds and mist clinging to the mountain peaks like a light veil, flowing slowly with the wind.

The bamboo forest is lush and green, with the bamboo shadows swaying in the wind and carrying a faint bamboo fragrance.

Occasionally, mountain springs flow gently along the steep rock face, and as the water droplets fall, they reflect the sunlight, shimmering with a delicate and warm glow, adding a touch of pristine wildness and tranquility compared to the city scenery.

"Look at that mountain over there, it's shaped like a lying rabbit with its ears drooping, it's so cute."

Xiao Yilin clung to the car window, pointing to the distant mountains, her voice filled with excitement.

Yu Chenzhou looked in the direction she pointed, a gentle smile in his eyes, and deliberately slowed down so she could take a closer look:

"After we get past this mountain road, the Yangtze River Bridge will be right ahead. We'll be able to enjoy the river view up close, and the view will be much more magnificent than from the city."

In the villages we passed along the way, houses built of blue bricks were scattered about, with distinctive horse-head walls and upturned eaves, exuding a strong ancient Huizhou style.

At the gates of several villagers' homes, rows of small red flags were neatly planted. The simple red color stood out against the backdrop of green mountains and clear waters, conveying the villagers' purest blessings and sentiments for the festival, making them all the more touching.

Xiao Yilin nodded in agreement, her eyes filled with tenderness:

"The further west you go, the more you can feel this unique charm. The festive warmth hidden in the everyday life is more touching than the deliberately arranged landscapes in the city."

She suddenly remembered the food, her eyes lit up, and she asked what hidden delicacies Anqing had that she shouldn't miss.

Yu Chenzhou smiled and recounted them in detail:

"Don't worry, I've done my homework."

Tonight I'll take you to eat Lao Anqing wontons. The wrappers are thin and the filling is generous. The bone broth is fresh but not greasy. We'll also serve it with a side of savory Shuiyang dried tofu.

I'll buy you some Mozi pastries while you stroll through the ancient town. They're crisp, sweet, and not sticky—truly authentic local flavors.

The three-hour drive, accompanied by the flowing mountains and rivers along the way, and the warm and cozy chat between the two, made time pass quietly, and before they knew it, they had arrived at Yingjiang District of Anqing.

The hotel they stayed at was right next to the Yangtze River, and they could see the river view from the window. After putting down their luggage and resting for a while, the two walked to the famous Yingjiang Temple.

In the flowerbed in front of the temple gate, all kinds of flowers are in full bloom, vying for beauty. In the center of the flowerbed stands a bright national flag, which is solemn yet gentle.

There weren't many tourists in the temple, and without the noise of crowds, the two were able to stroll leisurely, quietly experiencing the atmosphere where the Zen spirit of the ancient temple and the tranquility of the river view intertwined.

The Zhenfeng Pagoda stands majestically in the temple. Its blue brick body has withstood a century of wind and rain, bearing the marks of time. From the top, one can enjoy a panoramic view of the vast Yangtze River.

The river and sky blend into one color, the blue waves stretch for thousands of miles, and riverboats come and go like a woven tapestry, shuttling back and forth without ceasing;

The wind chimes at the corner of the tower tinkled gently in the breeze, their crisp sounds mingling with the deep rhythm of the river lapping against the shore, creating a melodious and captivating sound that soothed the soul.

Xiao Yilin leaned on the railing, gazing into the distance. Turning to look at Yu Chenzhou beside her, her voice was full of emotion:

"The river view here is truly soothing. The tranquility of the ancient temple is enveloped in a subtle festive warmth, making one feel exceptionally at ease and at peace."

Yu Chenzhou reached out and gently smoothed her hair, which had been ruffled by the river breeze. His fingertips were tender as he softly explained:

"This Zhenfeng Pagoda has stood for more than 400 years, witnessing countless changes in Anqing City. Now, standing here with the national flag, it feels less distant and more warm and welcoming."

The two stood side by side atop the tower, quietly watching the sunset paint the river a gentle orange-red hue. The afterglow bathed them, and the cool river breeze caressed their faces as they silently savored this moment of tranquility.

After leaving Yingjiang Temple, the two strolled along the riverside path to the ancient city of Anqing.

The bluestone pavement of Daobashi Historical and Cultural Street has been polished smooth and warm by the years, holding the long-standing memories of old Yicheng.

The buildings on both sides of the street are made of blue bricks and gray tiles, with upturned eaves. They have both an antique charm and a few trendy shops. The collision of the ancient charm and the trend creates a unique style.

Most of the shops along the street have small red flags tied to their doorways, which blend in with the red lanterns hanging under the eaves and the lush green plants placed in front of the doors, creating a festive atmosphere that is rich yet not noisy, just the right balance.

Xiao Yilin was drawn to a small shop displaying various ceramic products and quickly pulled Yu Chenzhou inside.

The shop owner was a kind old man who greeted the two with a smile:

"You've come at the perfect time. In a few days, during the National Day holiday, this street will be packed with tourists. Now it's quiet, so you can focus on the feel of the pottery and fully enjoy the fun of pottery."

The shop owner patiently guided the two in kneading clay and shaping the potter's wheel, explaining everything in detail, from techniques and strength control.

Xiao Yilin was trying for the first time, and her technique was extremely clumsy. The clay in her hands kept tilting and wobbling, which made her frown and her nose turn slightly red.

Seeing this, Yu Chenzhou gently took her hand from behind. The warmth of his palm was transmitted through the thin sleeve, carrying a soothing power. He slowed down his speech and guided her to adjust the strength of her wrist, gradually straightening the crooked clay body.

With their tacit cooperation, a small and exquisite heart-shaped cup gradually took shape. Xiao Yilin specially picked up a carving knife and carefully carved the initials of their names on the bottom of the cup. She looked up at Yu Chenzhou with a smile, her eyes full of joy:

"This is our special keepsake, and it's still carrying the festive spirit. We'll definitely keep it safe from now on."

Yu Chenzhou nodded in agreement, his fingertips gently stroking the smooth rim of the cup, his eyes filled with tenderness.

As I strolled to the stage in the center of the street, I happened to catch a Huangmei Opera performance.

Two small red flags are neatly tied to the pillars on both sides of the stage, which complements the antique stage.

The actors, dressed in exquisite ancient costumes, danced gracefully with light steps. Their melodious singing, mixed with the faint fragrance of osmanthus and the festive atmosphere, was refreshing and delightful.

The warm yellow lights enveloped the ancient stage, creating a rich and inviting atmosphere.

The two found a quiet corner to sit down and quietly watch the original performance. The evening breeze blew gently, carrying the melodious opera and a faint warmth, slowly seeping into their hearts, making them feel exceptionally comfortable.

In the evening, the two enjoyed authentic Anqing specialties at a home-style restaurant near the ancient city.

Besides the must-order dishes like braised pork with sweet potato starch balls, fried rice in chicken soup, and Hu Yumei broad bean sauce, I also specially ordered steamed pork with rice flour from Zongyang, fried rice from Anqing, and mugwort cakes.

Zongyang steamed pork is glossy, rich but not greasy, and melts in your mouth;

The mugwort cakes have a unique mountain fragrance, with a crispy outer layer and a soft, chewy interior, making them very refreshing.

During this time, Yu Chenzhou kept his promise and took Xiao Yilin to the old-established wonton shop. They ate a bowl of steaming hot Lao Anqing wontons and bought Mozi crisps and Dingxue Gonggao as souvenirs from a local specialty shop on the street.

After dinner, as night fell, the two strolled slowly along the path by the Yangtze River.

The Yangtze River at night loses its daytime grandeur and gains a more tranquil and profound quality, with its surface shimmering with a soft light that reflects the lights on the banks.

"We'll arrive in Wuhan tomorrow. According to our itinerary, should we spend a day in Wuhan before heading home?"

Are you nervous?

Xiao Yilin looked up at Yu Chenzhou, a hint of mockery in her eyes.

Yu Chenzhou smiled, then took her hand tightly in his own, his tone firm yet gentle:

"Shouldn't I be the one asking you that?"

Don't worry, I'm in charge in my own home now. Let those gossipy, backstabbing people go to hell.

I really want to take you to see the place where I grew up, stroll through the streets and alleys I frequented as a child, and taste the delicacies I've eaten since I was a kid—hot dry noodles, bean curd sheets, fried dough sticks, and rice noodle soup—I want to show you everything!

A cool, damp breeze from the river gently brushed against their hair, carrying a faint scent of the river.

The distant whistles of riverboats sounded deep and resonant, spreading slowly across the river; the streetlights along the shore lit up one after another, casting long, warm yellow halos that stretched the shadows of the boats into long, long shapes.

Xiao Yilin subconsciously moved closer to him, her fingertips entwining around his palm, and whispered:

"I'm actually looking forward to it. Seeing the streets where you grew up and learning about your past will make me understand you a little better and feel closer to you."

Yu Chenzhou looked down at her, his eyes filled with the glow of the city lights and an unyielding tenderness. He pulled her shoulder closer to his chest, slowed his pace, and accompanied her as they slowly recounted the night scenery along the way, enjoying this cozy time alone.

Before they knew it, the two had wandered back to their hotel, which was right next to the Yangtze River.

Pushing open the room door, a cool evening breeze drifted in through the gaps in the balcony, carrying a faint fragrance of river water, dispelling the stuffiness inside.

Xiao Yilin put down the gifts in her hand and walked to the balcony first, standing there for a moment. The river view in the distance was faintly visible in the night, with scattered lights dotting the wide river surface like scattered stars, quiet and gentle.

Yu Chenzhou neatly arranged the Mozi Su and Dingxue Gonggao he had bought on the table, poured two cups of warm water from the kettle, and quickly walked to the balcony to hand her one. Their fingertips touched, conveying a subtle warmth.

The two leaned against the balcony railing, quietly gazing at the distant river view, occasionally exchanging a few words in hushed tones. The evening breeze was gentle, and the days passed peacefully.

After a short rest, everyone washed up and tidied up, as the fatigue from traveling and sightseeing during the day gradually crept in.

Xiao Yilin carefully placed the heart-shaped ceramic cup she had made during the day into her bag, afraid of bumping or damaging it. This was a unique memory shared by the two of them, and it was especially precious.

After washing up, only a bedside lamp remained in the room, its warm, soft light spilling across the bed and dispelling all fatigue.

Yu Chenzhou laid out the bedding, turned to Xiao Yilin, and whispered:

"Get some rest. We need to travel to Wuhan tomorrow, so make sure you're well-rested so you can enjoy the sightseeing."

Xiao Yilin nodded in agreement, lay down in the soft bedding, and could faintly hear the sound of the river outside the window and the gentle whisper of the evening breeze in the distance. Accompanied by the peaceful breath of the person beside her, she gradually drifted into a sweet dream.

A peaceful and dreamless night brought a gentle and perfect end to this off-peak trip to Anqing.