As my thoughts wandered, I suddenly spotted a sneaky little girl peeking from the kitchen doorway.

It was Xiao Xian, of course. She’d snuck over to watch me cook. A sparkle lit her eyes—something I’d never seen before: joyful, excited, especially when gazing at me. Traces of admiration and gratitude shimmered within.

A pang of heartache hit me. How could my future self be so cruel—to abandon this sweet little girl, leaving her alone, lonely and scared, holed up at home? Even her meals meant cooking noodles by herself. Caring for her should’ve been my duty… yet it became why she felt grateful.

At her age, she should’ve been carefree—the household’s little princess, free of chores, just growing up happy.

Catching my gaze, Xiao Xian flushed shyly and scampered back to the living room on her tiny bare feet.

She must be impatient. After all, her stomach had been growling moments ago—a sound oddly like a bird’s coo.

A smile tugged my lips. Gotta speed up. Couldn’t let my precious daughter go hungry.

Maybe without realizing it, my heart and mind had already shifted.

Right now, all I wanted was to spoil Xiao Xian—cradle her small frame, stroke her hair gently, kiss her head, whisper “I love you”…

Oops. Done for. Full-blown daughter-loving dad.

These gestures held no hint of impropriety. She’s my daughter. I just want to care for her.

Truth is, the me from minutes ago was far harsher. Nicknamed “Brat Tamer” since childhood, I knew every trick to discipline unruly kids. No “precious flower” excused bad behavior—if you acted out, you got corrected.

But looking back? Xiao Xian had been a little mischievous earlier. Now? Gentle as a lamb. No wonder they say a daughter is a father’s little comfort—my heart melted instantly.

Finally, I added the beef to the wok. First, hot oil and a few spoonfuls of sugar. Waited until it caramelized golden, bubbling at the edges. *Then* the beef went in—key for color and richer flavor while stir-frying.

Stir-fried to perfection, time for the sauce. As it drizzled over the beef, watching the pieces turn deeply appetizing, I secretly swallowed. A quiet surge of pride bloomed inside.

Next: green onions, garlic, star anise, Sichuan peppercorns, dried chilies. Stir-fried awhile—it already looked legit. But one last step remained: transfer to the pressure cooker, simmer forty-five minutes. Only then would the perfect braised beef be ready.

—Growl…

"..."

Maybe… skip the simmer? Just eat the stir-fry now. Hunger whispered the thought. But no… absolutely not.

I *would* serve perfect braised beef to Xiao Xian. Jaw set, I switched on the pressure cooker without hesitation.

After that? Nothing left for me.

Time to return to the living room and keep Xiao Xian company.

Maybe even watch *Peppa Pig* together.