Adventure at Shilin Night Market

In the days following their visit to Tamsui, Charlie and Ming grew increasingly inseparable. Though they attempted to keep their relationship discreet, subtle signs of affection began to surface, noticeable even in the workplace. Charlie couldn’t help but blush whenever Ming was nearby, and Ming, in turn, adopted a playful and endearing demeanor in Charlie’s presence.

Keenly observant, Xing couldn’t ignore the shifts in dynamics between Charlie and Ming. Ming’s attentiveness to Charlie, such as bringing him iced Americano every morning, didn’t escape Xing’s notice. Charlie’s laughter echoed through the office in response to Ming’s jokes, even the not-so-funny ones, indicating a connection that transcended beyond a friendship.

Curiosity getting the better of him, Xing nonchalantly stopped by Charlie’s desk, attempting to spark a conversation between Charlie and Ming, trying to uncover some juicy details about this potential office romance. 

Grinning mischievously. “Charlie and Ming, I’ve sensed some serious flirting between you two. What’s the deal, guys?” Xing playfully nudged Charlie, winking at Ming.

Charlie laughed coyly, trying to downplay the situation. “There is no flirting, Xing. Ming has just brought me my morning coffee, that’s all.”

Ming joined in, adding a playful tone to tease Xing’s nosiness. “Yeah, just some friendly gesture at work. No hidden agenda here.”

Xing, not convinced, continued with his bantering, “Friendly gesture, huh? I’ve seen how Ming brings you coffee every morning with an extra smile on the side, Charlie. That’s some next-level friendship.”

Charlie blushed, realizing their efforts to keep things low-key weren’t fooling anyone, especially Xing. “Well, you know, good friends watch out for each other, right?”

Xing burst out in a loud giggle, “Sure, sure, as long as it’s all innocent. We wouldn’t want the office drama, right?” He winked again, leaving Charlie and Ming exchanging amused glances. 

Deep down in Xing’s heart, he knew these two would somehow develop their friendship to the next level, seeing how they acted towards each other from the beginning. Xing was extremely happy for Ming, having known him for a long time and seeing him beamed with happiness.

Charlie hesitated, voicing his concern, “Do you think Xing will talk about us in the office?”

Ming reassured Charlie, “Xing enjoys gossip but respects my privacy. I’m confident he won’t say anything about us unless I give him permission.”

“Okay, Ming, I trust your judgment about Xing.” Charlie paused briefly and said, “I’ve been thinking about visiting Shilin Night Market for a while. How about grabbing dinner there after work?” Charlie suggested.

“It’s a date, Charlie. Let’s explore the Shilin Night Market together. I’ve been craving the Oyster Vermicelli,” Ming agreed with a smile.

Finally free from work, Charlie and Ming embarked on an enchanting evening stroll through the vibrant streets of Shilin Night Market, eager to indulge in a local culinary experience. The lively atmosphere surrounded them as neon lights illuminated narrow lanes brimming with an enthusiastic crowd, showcasing an array of street vendors offering a feast for the senses.

*Shilin Night Market. Source: Public Domain

Ming, bubbling with excitement, eagerly pointed out various local delicacies to Charlie. “Charlie, you must try the stinky tofu, a Shilin Night Market specialty. I promise it tastes better than it smells.”

Chuckling, Charlie replied, “Ah, the infamous stinky tofu. I remember this unique Taiwanese dish from my childhood. Lead the way, Ming, and let’s relive my childhood memory with some delicious food.”

*Stinky tofu. Source: By Pilzland – Own work, CC0.

As they ventured deeper into the market, the aroma of sizzling street food permeated around them. Ming shared stories about his favorite stalls and recommended must-try dishes, like the crispy Spring Onion Pancake, chewy Taiwanese Sticky Rice Sausage, and juicy Soupy Dumplings.

Charlie listened with genuine interest, enjoying both the food adventure and Ming’s animated descriptions. They stopped at a busy food vendor and decided to try the Oyster Vermicelli, which Ming was raving about at the office.

While Ming dined on his preferred noodle dish, Charlie, tempted by the aromatic allure of the Flame-Grilled Beef Cubes, walked to the stall adjacent to the Oyster Vermicelli booth to soak in his local cuisine experience. 

The barbecue-style beef, cut into succulent cubes and seasoned with spices, proved irresistible to Charlie. The seasoned chef skillfully grilled the meat, unleashing sweet and spicy fragrances that danced tantalizingly in the air.

While waiting for his food, Charlie heard a familiar voice beside him. “Charlie, what a surprise to find you here.”

Charlie turned and found Peng standing next to him, a slight smile on his face.