The King of Noodles Competition

The cheers from the competition pulled Tang Yiyi’s thoughts back to the scene. The contestants were all renowned figures in the noodle houses of Yicheng, each with a loyal following of patrons. At their worktables, the contestants operated with calm precision. The timing of when to lift the noodles, ensuring they were neither undercooked nor overly soft, was crucial in Yicheng’s famous “Ran Noodles.”

Equally important was the choice of noodles, which had to be the local “Water Leaf Noodles,” not too thin or flat, nor too thick. Then came the oil—every noodle house’s oil differed due to the varied ingredients and methods of preparation, though the usual seasonings included star anise, sand ginger, sesame, walnut, and Sichuan peppercorns.

But some craftsmen, driven by a spirit of perfection, pushed the boundaries of flavor, much like the original owner of Qin’s, who discovered that adding a special seasoning to the chili made the noodles more fragrant. Next came the sprouts and roasted peanuts. The sprouts were a unique Yicheng pickled vegetable, requiring seven or eight steps to prepare. Once done, they could be used in buns or braised pork, but they were indispensable in Ran Noodles.

Roasting peanuts required no oil; traditionally, sand was used, though some now used salt. Mastery of flavor and crispness was essential. Everyone wanted to know how the century-old noodle house prepared these two ingredients, but they simply blocked the view with a board.

Er-Tong watched and cursed, “Damn it, I’m going to try frying them a hundred ways when I get home. I just don’t believe I can’t get it right.”

Xueqian quickly chimed in, “I support you, Brother Zhan! I’ll buy you all the peanuts you want—just don’t believe you can’t get it right.” She glanced at Liu Xin and laughed at him.

Liu Xin pressed his lips together, smiling quietly.

“Brother Bai said he tried many times but failed. If you succeed, you’ll truly deserve your position as branch manager,” Tang Yiyi said to Er-Tong.

Once the Ran Noodles were ready, they were presented to the twenty judges, each plate accompanied by a bowl of soup. The soup had become a scoring item; traditionally, there were no strict requirements for the soup paired with Ran Noodles, so many noodle houses paid little attention.

But Xiang Shengli was an exception. He paired different soups with different dry-mixed noodles, tirelessly tasting each combination. Since dry-mixed noodles were oily and flavorful, the soup had to be clear and mild. He also focused on the soup’s temperature—just right, not scalding—like the water Qin Baike always gave Tang Yiyi.

Only the right soup paired with the right noodles achieved the best taste; never assume one soup fits all dry-mixed noodles. For Ran Noodles, the optimal pairing was kelp soup.

The first thing Xiang Shengli did was put bones and kelp into the pot. Other contestants didn’t prepare soup specifically for Ran Noodles; two groups didn’t offer soup at all, and most, pressed for time, used pickled vegetable soup.

Qin’s Ran Noodles were prepared last, specifically to wait for the soup. The century-old noodle house opted for mushroom soup, likely because it required less time to prepare.

During the Ran Noodle contest, five professional judges evaluated each of the ten groups based on color, aroma, taste, and form. Scores were tallied by dropping the highest and lowest, averaging the rest, and adding the average from the citizen judges. The final score for the Ran Noodle round was thus determined.

The century-old noodle house narrowly won first place; Qin’s took second.

Seeing that noon was approaching and the contestants had plenty of ingredients left, the organizing committee announced that the competitors would prepare Ran Noodles for the audience as lunch. Spectators at each contestant’s station would eat that contestant’s noodles. The female audience near Qin Baike’s station erupted in thunderous cheers.

Er-Tong rolled his eyes. “Isn’t that a bit much? If someone wants my spot, twenty yuan and it’s theirs.”

During lunch break, a singer was invited to perform two energetic songs on stage. Tang Yiyi rested her head, drowsy, while nearby, people discussed Qin Baike, some young women inquiring if he was married.

Tang Yiyi finally understood why Qin Baike was so cautious. He had always hated being watched, especially by women giving him ambiguous looks.

In this age where good looks are an advantage, Qin Baike lived like a puritan, the very image of restraint.

Wu Xueqian clenched her fists and said to Tang Yiyi, “That girl’s overreaching herself. Think she can pursue Brother Bai? If anyone dares try, I’ll chase them all off.”

“You guard Brother Bai, but what about Liu Xin?”

“He…” Wu Xueqian shyly glanced at Liu Xin and muttered, “He hasn’t said he likes me.”

“Did Brother Bai say he likes you?”

“He hasn’t either,” Xueqian replied cheerfully. “But I can tell—he treats me like a brother, just like Brother Zhan.”

Tang Yiyi burst out laughing. Xueqian playfully punched her shoulder. “No laughing at me.”

She turned and went to find Liu Xin.

Tang Yiyi braced herself, thinking, Tonight, she would enact a scene of intimacy with Qin Baike. She had to remember to put on makeup. But how to act intimate? Whether he liked it or not, she would simply embrace and kiss him directly—ha ha ha ha.

“What are you giggling about?” Er-Tong asked.

“Not… nothing, Brother Er-Tong. Who knows, maybe Qin’s will win the championship this time.”

“Not likely. Look at what’s online.” Er-Tong handed Tang Yiyi his phone. On the livestream platform, someone commented: “Isn’t this supposed to be a noodle king contest? Why’s it turned into a beauty contest?”

The comment had garnered many likes.

Tang Yiyi protested, “Qin’s noodles are clearly delicious. How can people say such nonsense?”

“It could be other contestants hired online trolls. Seeing the chorus for Brother Bai’s victory rising, they’re pressuring the committee. But even if Brother Bai finishes last, he’s still the biggest winner, right?”

“Exactly.” Tang Yiyi gave Er-Tong a thumbs-up.

The second round began. Every noodle house brought out their signature dishes, displaying their best.

Qin’s second round featured Xiang Shengli’s Ginger Duck Noodles.

Tang Yiyi remembered the first time she tasted Uncle Xiang’s Ginger Duck Noodles—she was amazed. Ginger duck was a beloved Yicheng delicacy, and putting it on noodles was innovative. Xiang Shengli’s addition of dried radish was innovation within innovation; those who tasted it never forgot.

But the other contestants were no less impressive. Their second dishes made judging difficult, with scores barely differing. In this round, the contestant ranked second in the online poll took first place with beef noodles. Qin’s wasn’t far behind, finishing third.

The third round began right after the second. Qin’s presented Pig Trotter Noodles. Like the previous round, each group showcased their specialties: Intestine Noodles, Spicy Chicken, Fish Sauce Noodles, Savory Noodles… As dinnertime approached, the audience’s mouths watered.

The committee required contestants to use up all ingredients, placing completed bowls on the table for the audience to queue up and take one each. Nearly a hundred people, judges and audience alike, ate noodles together—a spectacular sight.

Scores were again closely matched, and the contestant ranked third online won first place. Qin’s took another third.

With three rounds finished, total scores were tallied, ranking everyone. The century-old noodle house’s strong first-round lead secured them the championship, despite not placing in the top three thereafter.

Qin’s, though never taking first, consistently scored high, finishing fourth overall—a result similar to Er-Tong’s expectations. He declared, “This competition is very fair.”

The contest ended amid cheers, everyone delighted.

Back in Magnolia Alley, Qin Baike didn’t open the shop. After a tiring day, he opted to rest.

Xiang Shengli took off Qin’s uniform, folded it neatly, and handed it to Qin Baike, who accepted it without meeting his father’s eyes. Xiang Shengli patted his shoulder, saying, “You did well. Your grandfather would be happy.”

Watching Xiang Shengli’s departing figure, Qin Baike’s eyes grew moist. For him, today’s competition was the greatest prize. From now on, the word “father” would no longer mean betrayal or coldness.

The next day, the whole alley buzzed about Qin Baike and Xiang Shengli competing together. Those familiar with Qin’s mother sighed, saying Xiang Shengli had finally received his due reward for kindness, and his efforts for Qin Baike weren’t wasted. Qin’s had also become famous in Yicheng, a source of pride for Magnolia Alley.

Tang Yiyi went to Xiang Shengli’s shop for breakfast and met Xu Mingjie, who dragged her to the supermarket and asked how Qin Baike could put aside past grievances to compete with his father.

Tang Yiyi said, “It was my master who mediated.”

“That explains it. If your master sets his mind to something, it’s almost certain to succeed. I was stunned seeing them together on TV yesterday. Now things are so much better—they’re no longer like enemies.”

“Yes, Brother Bai didn’t say much, but I could tell he was happy.”

“They look so handsome together. Did you notice? People online are saying they won with their looks.”

“Brother Bai hates when people comment on his appearance. Oh well. Auntie, have you eaten? Let’s go try Uncle Xiang’s Ginger Duck Noodles.”

“Let’s go.”

At Ran Noodle King, they saw a photo of Xiang Shengli from the previous day’s competition posted at the entrance, beaming as he held a bowl of Ginger Duck Noodles.

Xiang Xiaoting greeted Tang Yiyi and Xu Mingjie happily, “Sister, Boss, our Ginger Duck Noodles are famous now!”

“Yes, you might as well rename the shop Ginger Duck King.”

“Hehe, sit down. I’ll bring you noodles.”

Tang Yiyi said to Xu Mingjie, “Uncle Xiang is wearing Qin’s uniform in the photo. I think the shop should be renamed Qin’s Ginger Duck Noodles. Er-Tong always dreams of opening branches, but Uncle Xiang should run the first one.”

“You’re right, but it depends on Baike. He still needs to consider his mother’s feelings.”

“Brother Bai says his mother loves Uncle Xiang most in her life. I don’t understand why she insisted on making things so hard for him.”

Xu Mingjie leaned closer and whispered, “When a man’s too handsome, it’s hard to trust him—she was suspicious.”

Tang Yiyi was stunned. Wasn’t she just as anxious in her love for Qin Baike? Like the sudden appearance of Wu Xueqian, who openly proposed to Qin Baike. Hearing it, Tang Yiyi felt a mix of emotions.

Though Wu Xueqian’s proposal was casual, her blush and shyness with Liu Xin showed she liked him more. Qin Baike’s attitude toward Xueqian was clear—definitely no intention of being together—but Tang Yiyi couldn’t let it go.

Let alone Ye Tong, whom Qin Baike had never forgotten. Though he never spoke of it, thinking of her always unsettled Tang Yiyi.

She sighed, “Love should just be two people together, but it’s more complicated than nuclear fission equations.”

Xu Mingjie laughed, “What do you know, young girl? You’ll only understand after twenty years of marriage. The human heart is the hardest to fathom.”

After eating, Tang Yiyi insisted on paying, her internship salary having increased.

Xiang Xiaoting stopped her, “Dad said we owe it all to you, Sister. No need to pay—just come anytime. If you’re busy, we can deliver.”

“How can I accept? Tell Uncle Xiang, this time’s a treat, but next time you must charge. This is Yicheng’s new internet-famous noodles.”

Tang Yiyi returned to the medical shop, where Xu Bin hurried over and whispered, “The date for the weekly contest is set. We’re going to Beijing to record the show on August 25th.”

“Really?” Tang Yiyi’s mouth fell open. “Great! How’s your rehearsal?”

“We’re ready—three songs. The problem is I need a week off. How do I hide it from Dad?”

“Think about it. How’s your pharmacist exam prep?”

“Not great—no confidence. Otherwise, I wouldn’t sneak around.” Xu Bin frowned, troubled.

“It’s three and a half months until late November. How many books have you read?”

“One… almost finished.” Xu Bin held up a finger.

Tang Yiyi stared, speechless.

“I can never remember—what should I do?” Xu Bin complained.

“Figure out how to hide it from Master. When you get back, only two and a half months left. You need to buckle down.”

“Yiyi, you can’t abandon me. Help me organize the key points!”

“I’m taking a different exam—I’ve never touched your books. Don’t you have college friends taking it? Ask them for help.”

“Most of them aren’t working in the field anymore.”

Tang Yiyi sighed, helpless with Xu Bin’s learning ability.

During work hours, Xu Bin started cramming, and both Zuo Chengjiang and Wu Siping didn’t disturb him. Xu Mingtang, seeing this, was deeply gratified—children’s achievements require patience.

After dinner, once the elders left, Tang Yiyi began preparing for her intimate encounter later. She washed her face thoroughly, then followed Xiaoxiao’s instructions, layering creams, lotions, and balms. She patted her cheeks, looked around—yes, dewy.

She began applying makeup, reflecting on her laziness. One eyeliner had her sweating, never getting it right—too thick or crooked, wiping it off repeatedly.

She took deep breaths, calming herself as if holding a scalpel, steady as could be, finally managing a decent line. She stared at the eyeshadow for ages, not daring to try, worried it would ruin the eyeliner.

Mascara was a must, but she only succeeded in clumping it on the tips. She carefully wiped excess with a cotton swab, and once dry, it looked just passable.

Filling in eyebrows was another skill, but fortunately, Tang Yiyi’s brows were well-shaped. Xiaoxiao had told her: just a little powder.

Lipstick was the easiest. She used her ring finger to blend it, creating a proper bitten-lip look.

She jumped up and started rummaging for clothes—left, right, all T-shirts and jeans. Her only skirt was bought two years ago and made her look rustic.

Forget it. The red T-shirt with a bit of floral patchwork would do for now. Next month, when her salary was paid, she’d ask Xiaoxiao to go shopping for a skirt.

She examined herself in the mirror. Well, who knew if she looked like Qin Baike’s girlfriend.

She went downstairs to the neighboring shop. There were more people than usual, including some girls—some glancing around, others on their phones. But Qin Baike was absent; perhaps he was hiding again.

She asked Xiao Xie, who said Uncle Xiang had asked to speak with him.

Tang Yiyi told Xiao Xie that if the boss returned and a girl approached him, he should call her; she’d go study for now. Xiao Xie gave her an understanding OK gesture.

About an hour later, Xiao Xie called, “Three beauties showed up and are making eyes at the boss.”

Tang Yiyi quickly got up, straightened her hair, and ran downstairs.

There were few people left in the shop. Qin Baike sat in his usual spot, head propped, looking at his phone. At the nearest table sat three beauties, asking him questions. He didn’t answer, only smiled politely and nodded.

Tang Yiyi stood at the door, took a deep breath, and told herself to walk over—not to act, but to be his girlfriend. He was her boyfriend; just by linking arms, intimacy would come naturally. She could simply say: I love you.

Thinking this, she slowly walked toward him.

Suddenly, a clear female voice called behind her, “Baike!”

Qin Baike looked up, abruptly stood, stunned.

Tang Yiyi had never seen such a dazed expression on his face. Before her, he was always calm—either cold and expressionless, or gently smiling with a hint of indulgence.

She hadn’t turned yet when a woman swept past her like the wind toward Qin Baike. Her figure was slender and tall, clad in a black linen short-sleeved top and a white linen skirt reaching her ankles, the skirt swirling as she walked.

She naturally linked arms with Qin Baike, lifted her fair face to smile brightly at him, then rested her head gently on his shoulder. Everything was so natural and harmonious; the two looked perfectly matched.

Tang Yiyi silently retreated, step by step, until she reached the noodle shop entrance, where Er-Tong exclaimed in surprise, “Sister?”