"Take care. If anyone bullies you, tell Daddy. If anyone tries to flirt with you, tell Daddy. If anyone gives you snacks you don't like, tell Daddy that, too. If the weather is too hot, too cold, too average, tell Daddy."
"Dad."
"And if someone—"
"Dad."
"Yes, Baby?"
"Go inside."
"…Okay."
He sniffled one last time, then retreated with the defeated dignity of a single father whose universe revolved around a tiny six-year-old tyrant.
Huaijin watched him go, heart softening.
Last life, she never bothered to enjoy this warmth.
This time… she would.
But not right now.
Right now, she had a bus to catch.
***
In front of the apartment building, a large silver bus was parked, the variety show's logo pasted on its side:
"Kids Go! Adventure Unlimited"
—It was bright, colorful, and terrifyingly cheerful.
A staff member hurried forward with a clipboard.
"Are you Miss Chi Huaijin? Welcome! Your seat is inside to the right!"
"Thank you," she replied politely.
Then she climbed up.
