'So it begins again,' she thought quietly. The web of destiny was weaving itself before her eyes.
But this time, she wouldn't be a background character lost in someone else's story.
She would make sure her father's smile was protected, no matter what it took.
When school ended that afternoon, Huaijin ran out of the gates, her heart hammering in anticipation.
And there he was, Chi Yuanfeng, waiting by the car with a gentle smile, holding out his hand for her.
Her face lit up immediately as she dashed toward him. "Daddy!"
He laughed softly, scooping her into his arms. "Did you have fun?"
"Mm-hmm! I even made… acquaintances!" she said, hesitating on the last word.
He smiled at her unusual phrasing, brushing her hair back from her face. "Good. I'm proud of you."
As he carried her back to the car, Huaijin glanced over her father's shoulder, her small hand clutching his shirt.
