Back in his room, Nian Xifeng stared at the ceiling, murmuring silently to himself.

"I hope those idiots don’t do anything stupid. Anyone who dares to ruin my life with Yuchi won’t be forgiven."

With that thought, he slowly closed his eyes and drifted into sleep.

...The night passed without incident.

Early the next morning, Nian Xifeng was already up. After a quick wash, he began preparing breakfast for Nian Yuchi.

After careful effort, a nutritious spread appeared on the table.

Satisfied, he clapped his hands and walked smilingly to Yuchi’s room. He didn’t knock—he knew she was still asleep and wouldn’t hear him anyway.

At her bedside, watching her sleeping face, he recalled her falling asleep on the couch last night while waiting for him. He couldn’t bear to wake her. Glancing at the time, he decided to let her rest a little longer.

He moved to the window, gazing at the sky as his thoughts drifted away.

When he snapped back to reality, it was time. Reluctantly, he returned to the bed. "Yuchi, wake up. Breakfast is ready!" he whispered softly in her ear.

Morning sunlight streamed through the window, bathing her cute face in a soft glow.

"Mmm, just five more minutes!" she mumbled, opening her eyes to see his familiar face. She couldn’t help but act spoiled.

"Not now. If you don’t get up, you’ll be late for school," he said helplessly. If not for classes, he’d let her sleep forever.

"Okay then! Brother, help me!" she mumbled sleepily, wrapping her arms around his neck.

"Ah, you..." he sighed, powerless against her antics.

Though used to this routine, he wondered who could ever handle this little demon.

After skillfully helping her get ready, she finally sat at the table, still half-asleep.

"Come on, wake up. Time to eat!" he said, exasperated but not minding the trouble—for her, nothing felt like a burden.

When he mentioned food, she lifted her eyelids just enough to glance at the dishes, then at him. Seeing him watching back, she closed her eyes again.

His eye twitched.

After a pause, she tilted her head as if thinking. "Mmm, bro! Feed me!"

"Huh? You’re not a kid anymore!" he protested.

"Nope, ahhh~" she pouted, opening her mouth wide.

Helpless, he picked up a spoon and started feeding her.

She ate everything without fuss—such an easy kid to raise!

After breakfast and cleaning up, it was time for school.

"Yuchi, let’s go!" he called to her on the couch.

"Okay!"

Outside, they locked the door and headed toward school.

Morning dew glistened like scattered stars under the sunlight, serene and beautiful.

Nian Xifeng took a deep breath of the fresh air.

"Yuchi, you should do things yourself. Don’t always rely on others," he said casually as they walked.

"But you’re not others, Brother! It’s fine!" she grinned, only ever this way with him.

"What if you find a boyfriend later? I can’t take care of you forever," he rolled his eyes.

"Then I won’t find one. I have you!" she beamed, hugging his arm and leaning on his shoulder.

"I can’t be with you forever," he said quietly. He wanted to protect her, but she deserved her own happiness someday.

"Then be my boyfriend! We can stay together forever!" she smiled sweetly, eyes crinkling. To her, only he was truly trustworthy.

"Don’t say that! We’re siblings. It’s impossible!" he felt a fleeting warmth but pushed it aside.

"Enough. We’re almost there," he cut off, not wanting to continue. He wished to keep her close but knew she needed a life beyond him.

"Okay," she replied softly.

The rest of the walk was silent, the air thick with unspoken words.

As if on cue, they reached their classroom just as the bell rang.

Nian Xifeng took Yuchi’s hand and walked in. Instantly, most eyes in the room locked onto them.

Ignoring the stares, he led her to their seats.

The boys glared, their eyes burning with jealousy. If looks could kill, he’d be ashes by now. If not for class, they’d have rushed to "rescue" their goddess.

He sat down, Yuchi beside him.

"Morning, Yuchi! Morning, Xifeng!" An Qi waved from nearby.

"Morning, An Qi!" Yuchi smiled back.

"Morning," Nian Xifeng nodded.

Soon, Ren Lingying entered.

"About abilities, I’ve checked the data and consulted the principal," she announced, clapping her hands. "First, I apologize to Nian Xifeng. I was wrong yesterday." She gave a slight bow.

"It’s nothing, Teacher. Don’t worry about it," he waved it off.

"Hmm," she nodded and continued yesterday’s topic. This only deepened her curiosity about his background—someone even the principal respected—but she pushed it aside. Now wasn’t the time.

"I learned abilities can evolve from your existing power, not just through awakening. It requires talent, insight, and deep understanding of your ability. The better you know it, the higher the chance. No one can help you—you must strive on your own. So, work hard to get stronger!"

Nian Xifeng smiled from his seat. She’d nailed it; no need to add more.

After covering other topics, the bell rang.

"That’s all for today. Class dismissed!" Ren Lingying turned and left without a backward glance.

The moment she was gone, the boys in class sprang into action.