After Paris Saint-Germain was removed from the list, I led England to victory!

Today, after Arsenal players finished training.

In the locker room at the Kearney training facility, the players were lounging in twos and threes on chairs, enjoying their relaxation.

Saka was enthusiastically demonstrating a famous feint from a training match to Odegaard.

Ramsey and Rodri discussed tactical details in hushed tones, while Aubameyang fixed his signature hairstyle in front of the mirror.

In the corner, Yan Yuan's movements appeared exceptionally swift.

He quickly took a shower, not even having time to dry himself off, and grabbed a towel to roughly wipe himself dry.

Then she took out a neatly ironed casual outfit from the closet: a light gray cashmere sweater paired with dark casual pants, simple and refreshing.

He put on his clothes with an unusual urgency, even rubbing his hair a few times with a towel, letting a few strands of wet hair fall unruly across his forehead.

"Hey, Yan! Why are you acting like your butt's on fire today?" Ashraf, with his sharp eyes, was the first to notice something was wrong, and he grinned as he came over.

"You're usually the last one to finish! What, do you have a date tonight?" He deliberately dragged out the word "date" and winked.

"Go away!" Yan Yuan laughed and scolded, pushing away Ashraf's approaching head while quickly tying his shoelaces.

"My family restaurant received a new batch of special ingredients today, and my mom asked me to go back early to help taste them and see if they suit my taste so we can adjust the menu," Yan Yuan casually made up a reason, speaking naturally.

"Oh? Yi Pin Ju is getting new dishes again?" Ramsey was intrigued. "That sweet and sour pork was amazing last time! When are they releasing new dishes? Remember to tell the guys to come and support them!"

"No problem! I'll let you know when it's done!" Yan Yuan replied with a smile, his hands moving even faster.

He grabbed the car keys from the table and waved to the crowd.

"I'm outta here! See you tomorrow, guys!"

"Hey! Why are you running so fast! Are you afraid we'll beat you to the food tasting?" Aubameyang shouted from behind, eliciting a burst of laughter.

Yan Yuan waved his hand without turning his head, and his figure quickly disappeared at the door of the changing room.

"Something's not right! Something's definitely not right!" Saka stroked his chin, looking certain. "Brother Yan isn't usually this eager to go home and 'test the dishes'! Something's definitely going on!"

"Don't make wild guesses," Rhodes said calmly. "Maybe Auntie really does need to talk to him."

The teasing from his teammates was shut out behind him.

Yan Yuan strode towards the parking lot, his heart beating faster than usual.

He got into the black Mercedes, started the engine, and the car smoothly drove out of the base gate and merged into the London evening traffic.

Instead of heading directly to Chinatown, he drove towards the apartment where Lin Jianwei was renting.

The car turned onto a relatively quiet street and stopped in front of an apartment building with a distinctly British style.

The warm yellow streetlights have already come on, adding a touch of warmth to the late autumn evening.

Yan Yuan turned off the engine, picked up his phone, and dialed Lin Jianwei's number.

"Senior, I've arrived." His voice came through the receiver, tinged with nervousness.

"Okay, I'll be right down." Lin Jianwei's voice was still clear and melodious, but it seemed to be a beat faster.

A few minutes later, the glass door of the apartment building was pushed open.

Lin Jianwei came out.

The London evenings in late autumn were already a bit chilly.

Today, she wore a beige wool coat, with a loose fit and smooth lines, exuding a gentle temperament.

The light gray turtleneck sweater is soft and skin-friendly, and it pairs harmoniously and naturally with the coat. The dark gray A-line skirt is knee-length, with the hem slightly flared out, adding a touch of liveliness.

Nude-colored high-heeled ankle boots elongate the leg lines and echo the color of the overall outfit.

Lin Jianwei's long hair fell smoothly over her shoulders, and her light makeup made her features appear even more delicate, with a gentle and serene demeanor.

She was carrying a small chain bag. When she saw Yan Yuan's car, a faint smile appeared on her face, and she walked over quickly.

Yan Yuan got out of the car, opened the passenger door for her, and said with a smile.

"Senior, please."

"Thank you." Lin Jianwei got into the car, bringing with her a faint, elegant fragrance of gardenias.

The car restarted and merged back into traffic.

The carriage was quiet for a moment, with only soothing jazz music playing.

Yan Yuan felt his palms were slightly sweaty.

"Was training tiring today?" Lin Jianwei asked first, her voice gentle.

"It's alright, the intensity isn't too high, it's mainly tactical drills." Yan Yuan glanced at her, meeting her clear gaze, and his heart skipped a beat. He quickly turned back to look at the road. "What about you? At Goldman Sachs... the Brexit turmoil hasn't subsided yet, has it? Is the work pressure high?"

"Yeah, the project is still going strong, there's definitely pressure, but you get used to it." Lin Jian smiled. "It's nice to be able to go out for a meal and relax a bit today."

The two chatted about work, the London weather, and the books they had recently read...

The atmosphere gradually relaxed and became more natural.

Yan Yuan's tension gradually dissipated, replaced by an indescribable sense of comfort and pleasure.

The car drove through the bustling streets and headed towards Chinatown.

……

When the familiar signboard of "Yipinju" came into view, Yan Yuan's mood inexplicably lifted.

After parking the car, he led Lin Jianwei towards the restaurant.

Pushing open the wooden door, you are greeted by warm light, the aroma of food, and a unique football atmosphere.

Lin Jianwei's gaze was instantly drawn to it. She looked around, her eyes filled with amazement and curiosity.

"Wow... here..." Her gaze fell on the "Yan Yuan's Wall of Honor" directly opposite the main gate.

Three jerseys from different periods and different teams were carefully framed and gleamed under the lights.

"Is this your national team jersey?" she asked, pointing to the England number 17 in the middle.

"Yes, senior," Yan Yuan walked to her side and introduced her softly, "The one in the middle is the England national team, the number 17 on the left is from the Hoffenheim era, and the number 7 on the right is the current Arsenal player."

"This blue and white... Hoffenheim, is that the team you played for in Germany?" Lin Jianwei's gaze shifted to the photo next to him. "The old man in this group photo, is that Mr. Wenger?"

Lin Jianwei already knows quite a bit about football, so of course she knows who Wenger is.

"Yes, the photo with Coach Wenger was taken when I first transferred to Arsenal." Yan Yuan pointed to the photo. "The coach treated me very well and gave me many opportunities and trust."

"And this one? This young coach is...?"

"This is Mr. Nagelsmann. He was my head coach at Hoffenheim. He's a very insightful person who trusts young players. I played my first full professional season under him," Yan Yuan patiently explained.

"This photo is a group photo of the entire Arsenal team, taken after our 5-0 victory over Tottenham. This one is a family photo of me in Hoffenheim; I was quite green back then..."

Lin Jianwei listened attentively, his gaze lingering on each jersey and each photograph.

She saw trophy replicas and autographed footballs in the glass display case, as well as Arsenal team flags and scarves with "YAN 7" printed on them hanging on the wall.

This is more than just a restaurant.

It's more like a small museum about Yan Yuan's football career, filled with passion and the warmth of home.

"I never expected a restaurant to have such a strong football atmosphere," Lin Jianwei exclaimed sincerely. "Your aunt must be so proud of you."

"Hehe... My mom always says this is another 'home ground' for me," Yan Yuan laughed.

Just then, a soft cough came from behind the cashier.

Yan's father had been standing there for some time, a gentle smile on his face, looking at his son and Lin Jianwei.

Mr. Yan is usually busy negotiating collaborations everywhere, so it was a rare sight for him to appear in the store today. He was wearing a neatly ironed dark blue shirt and looked exceptionally energetic.

"Dad." Yan Yuan led Lin Jianwei over. "This is Senior Lin Jianwei. Senior, this is my dad."

"Hello, Uncle, I'm Lin Jianwei." Lin Jianwei was poised and graceful, giving a slight bow with a polite smile. "I'm sorry to bother you today."

"Hello, hello, Xiaolin, welcome, welcome! It's not bothering you at all!" Mr. Yan said warmly, his smile genuine.

"I've often heard Yan Yuan mention you, saying you helped him a lot. I'm so glad to finally meet you today. You really do have an extraordinary presence!" he said, while gesturing to his wife who was busy in the kitchen.

The curtain at the back of the kitchen was lifted, and Aunt Yan came out carrying two cups of hot tea.

Her face beamed with a warm smile, her apron still dusted with flour, but her eyes shone brightly with joy.

"Jianwei's here! Please have a seat!" Aunt Yan placed the tea in a private room by the window, a quiet spot she had specially reserved for the two of them.

"It must be cold on the way here! Have some hot tea to warm yourself up!"

"Hello, Auntie! Thank you!" Lin Jianwei quickly accepted the tea, feeling the warmth from the teacup and Aunt Yan's undisguised enthusiasm.

She felt a warmth in her heart, but at the same time, a subtle sense of unease also arose.

This seems...

More than just a simple thank-you meal?

"Mom, this is Senior Lin Jianwei," Yan Yuan introduced again.

"I know, I know, it's Jianwei." Aunt Yan smiled, her eyes crinkling as her gaze swept over Lin Jianwei, from her exquisite makeup to her appropriate attire, and then to her gentle and serene demeanor. The more she looked at her, the more satisfied she became.

"Oh my, young lady, you're so pretty! Please have a seat, the food will be ready soon!"

"Auntie...you're too kind." Lin Jianwei was a little embarrassed by the compliment, her cheeks flushed slightly.

"Dad, Mom, you go about your business, don't worry about us." Yan Yuan noticed Lin Jianwei's slight unease and quickly said.

"Alright, alright, you two chat, you two chat!" Aunt Yan replied with a smile, turned around and went back to the kitchen with light steps.

Yan's father nodded and returned to the cashier, but his gaze kept drifting towards his son.

……

Soon after, the sound of spatulas clattering and an enticing aroma wafted from the kitchen.

Yan's father got up and went to the kitchen to help serve the dishes.

Soon, one after another, dishes that looked and smelled delicious were served.

Longjing Shrimp: The shrimp are translucent and glistening, garnished with emerald green tea leaves, and have a delightful aroma; Sweet and Sour Pork Ribs: Bright red in color, with a perfect balance of sweet and sour; There's also Stir-fried Seasonal Vegetables, Crab Roe Tofu Soup...

A table full of authentic Jiangnan and Zhejiang cuisine.

It's clear that Aunt Yan put in a lot of effort.

Looking at the lavish meal that far exceeded the standard of a "thank you meal," Lin Jianwei became even more certain of her previous guess, and her cheeks flushed even more.

When she saw her father carrying the dishes, she quickly stood up.

"Uncle, let me help you."

"No need, no need!" Yan Yuan quickly and gently pressed her shoulder. "Senior, please sit down. You're a guest today, just enjoy your meal."

Mr. Yan laughed and said, "Xiao Lin, please sit down. You don't need to do such a small thing." As he spoke, he and Mrs. Yan worked together seamlessly and quickly served all the dishes.

"The dishes are all ready, please enjoy your meal. Jianwei, please try Auntie's cooking!" Aunt Yan wiped her hands, her face beaming with smiles.

"Yes, you young people can chat all you want. Tell us if anything comes up," Yan's father interjected, while giving Yan Yuan a wink.

The couple turned and left in perfect unison.

Mother Yan even turned back and gave a special reminder: "Son, have a good chat with Jianwei."

Before leaving, Yan's father secretly gave Yan Yuan a thumbs up behind his back before quickly following Yan's mother and "disappearing" together at the corner of the corridor leading to the kitchen.

Only Yan Yuan and Lin Jianwei remained in the private room.

The air was filled with the aroma of food and a subtle, slightly sweet awkwardness.

"Ahem... Senior, please try this. My mom made it especially for you. It's all Jiangzhe cuisine." Yan Yuan picked up the serving chopsticks and put a piece of shrimp on Lin Jianwei's plate. "My mom heard you're from Hangzhou, so she specially went to buy the freshest shrimp."

"Thank you..." Lin Jianwei looked at the crystal-clear shrimp in the bowl, feeling a warmth in her heart. The awkwardness gradually dissipated amidst the aroma of the food and Yan Yuan's thoughtfulness.

She picked up a shrimp, took a bite, and her eyes lit up: "Mmm! It's delicious! The shrimp is so tender, and the flavor is just right! Auntie's cooking is amazing!"

"I'm glad you like it, senior," Yan Yuan breathed a sigh of relief and smiled. "My mom will be overjoyed to know you like it. Try this one too..."

The two chatted as they ate, and the conversation naturally transitioned from food to work, life, and hobbies.

Lin Jianwei shared some interesting stories and pressures from working at Goldman Sachs, while Yan Yuan also talked about his feelings about training and competitions.

The atmosphere became increasingly harmonious, relaxed, and pleasant.

Lin Jianwei discovered that Yan Yuan, stripped of his star status, was talkative, humorous, thoughtful, and caring.

The blush on her face faded, replaced by a natural, relaxed smile.

Meanwhile, in the shadows of the corridor leading to the kitchen...

Yan's parents are currently engaged in a "wiretapping scandal".

Aunt Yan pressed her ear against the wall, holding her breath in concentration.

Yan's father rubbed his hands together and asked in a low voice.

"How's it going? What are they talking about? Are they talking about having grandchildren yet?"

"Get lost!" Aunt Yan rolled her eyes at him, then continued to "listen" intently, a satisfied smile on her face.

"They had a good chat, laughing and talking. My son even served food to the other person... Hmm, Jianwei praised my cooking... Oh dear, it seems my son told Jianwei a joke, and she smiled. Her voice is so lovely..."

Yan's father couldn't help but lean over to listen, but Yan's mother pushed him away.

"Don't cause trouble! I'm listening!"

Mr. Yan shook his head helplessly, looking at his wife's focused "eavesdropping" expression, feeling both amused and exasperated.

But I couldn't resist my curiosity and stood on tiptoe, wanting to hear it more clearly.

……

The meal ended in a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere.

Lin Jianwei ate to her heart's content and praised Yan Ma's cooking skills.

"Auntie, Uncle, thank you for your hospitality! The food was absolutely delicious! Especially the Longjing shrimp and crab roe, they were so authentic!" Lin Jianwei walked to the cashier and sincerely thanked Mr. and Mrs. Yan, her voice gentle and graceful.

"Oh, I'm so glad you like it, Jianwei. I was just worried it wouldn't suit your taste," Aunt Yan said, beaming. "Come often! Just tell me what you'd like to eat in advance!"

"Yes, Xiao Lin, don't be shy, you're welcome anytime!" Yan's father nodded with a smile.

"Mom, Dad, I'm taking my senior home." Yan Yuan picked up the car keys.

"Yes, yes, Yan Yuan, why don't you see Jianwei off? It's getting dark, and it's not safe for a girl to be alone!" Yan's mother immediately chimed in.

"No need to trouble yourself, Uncle and Aunt. It's very convenient for me to take a taxi back by myself," Lin Jianwei quickly declined.

"No trouble at all, let him deliver it!" Mrs. Yan insisted. "Son, drive carefully on the road!"

Lin Jianwei, seeing that she couldn't refuse, could only smile and agree:

"Then... thank you for your trouble, Yan Yuan."

"Of course," Yan Yuan smiled.

After saying goodbye to Yan's parents, the two left "Yipinju".

The moment the door closed, Yan Ma's smile widened instantly. She grabbed her husband's arm and said excitedly:

"Old Yan! What do you think? What do you think? Jianwei! I'm truly satisfied with this girl!"

"Yes, indeed very good." Yan Feng nodded, his face showing appreciation. "She is poised and elegant, speaks with proper manners, and clearly comes from a well-educated and cultured family."

"That's more than that!" Aunt Yan's eyes lit up as she began to list them off.

"Look at her appearance, so beautiful, fair skin, straight nose, lovely eyebrows and eyes, such a good temperament, gentle and kind, she looks like she has a good temper."

And that figure—tall and well-proportioned, with impeccable taste in clothes! Not to mention her education—Imperial College London, Goldman Sachs jobs—those qualifications are hard to find even with a lantern. Our son has excellent taste.”

Listening to his wife's "appearance-obsessed" remarks, Yan's father shook his head with a smile.

"You only care about appearances. What I value is this girl's intelligence and insight."

he said,

"Honey, think about it. Xiao Lin was able to get into Goldman Sachs, work in such a high-pressure environment, and help our son analyze such complex financial risks and give such professional advice. His intelligence and ability are absolutely top-notch."

My son is doing well playing football now, but football is a young person's game, and it will eventually come to an end.

"If he can really be with Jianwei in the future, with her helping Xiaoyuan manage the finances and plan the business, what will our son have to worry about for the rest of his life? She's a true virtuous wife!"

Upon hearing this, Aunt Yan nodded repeatedly.

"Yes, yes, yes! Old Yan, you're right. This girl is truly exceptional, both inside and out. Look at how composed and tactful she was just speaking! Her emotional intelligence is so high! Wow, the more I look at her, the more satisfied I become!"

Aunt Yan's face beamed with a smile of boundless hope for the future.

"I think our son has really figured it out this time."

The couple stood under the warm lamplight, looking out the window at the direction their son's car had driven away, their faces showing identical relief and anticipation.

At Yipinjuli, the aroma of food has not yet dissipated, and the glory of football shines quietly on the wall. On this late autumn night, a touch of sweet anticipation for the future seems to have been quietly added.