Xiao Xian probably didn’t understand why I was so excited.

After that embarrassing incident, I even began doubting myself—questioning whether I was worthy of approaching Senpai or secretly admiring her. Sometimes, bumping into her in the student council office, even when she greeted me, I’d feel flustered and at a loss, let alone respond politely.

Her gaze remained as gentle as on our first meeting, yet our hearts held entirely different feelings now.

Thankfully, Xiao Xian’s reminder helped me realize something.

No one is flawless—not even carved from jade. Even Venus, goddess of love and beauty, is remembered for her missing arms. Likewise, beneath Senpai’s breathtaking beauty hid a lonely, melancholic heart.

That day, when I awkwardly approached her, I clearly saw a fleeting glimmer in her eyes. Though she quickly masked it, I’m sure our brief exchange—those seemingly trivial words—wasn’t forgotten. They must occasionally resurface from the depths of her memory.

When Senpai recalls my clumsy attempt to talk to her… does a faint smile cross her lips too?

Just like how Senpai’s occasional attention made me giddy at school—so much that I’d giggle secretly in class, and even if scolded by the teacher, I’d still find it sweet.

After Xiao Xian punched my arm a few times with her tiny fists and saw I didn’t care, she pouted in frustration. To her, adults must seem like strange creatures—emotions shifting wildly in an instant.

But soon, something clicked. She smiled again, wrapped her arms around me. Though she couldn’t fully encircle me, it was still a hug. She pressed her cheek to my chest, slightly narrowed her eyes, and wore a blissful expression.

This embrace made me feel needed and relied upon—I loved it. My cute little loli was soft and sweet-smelling; holding or stroking her felt wonderfully comforting. Especially now, after my gentle guidance, Xiao Xian was no longer aggressive—docile and well-behaved.

As I gently stroked her back, my mind drifted entirely to Senpai. They say a high school boy’s thoughts are empty except for… well, *that*. An exaggeration, sure—but not entirely wrong.

My feelings for Senpai blended admiration with the natural pull of opposite-sex attraction.

I can say without hesitation: I like Senpai. I want to do all sorts of things with her—including certain… indescribable ones.

Lost in fantasy, Xiao Xian suddenly tilted her head up—nearly knocking my chin off.

We both yelped. Then, rubbing her head, she murmured,

“Daddy… Is dinner ready? I’m hungry.” As if on cue, her stomach answered with a soft *gurgle*.

I smacked my forehead. “Oops! I was so wrapped up thinking about Senpai—I forgot the pressure cooker’s still simmering braised beef!”

I set Xiao Xian down and checked my phone. Over forty minutes had passed. Perfect timing.

“Coming right up! And wash your hands before eating—remember!” I slipped smoothly into Daddy mode, even fussing over table manners.

Well, I’ve always hated brats. But brats are made by indulgent, lax parenting. Not under my watch.

Even Xiao Xian, with her yandere potential maxed out, would walk the right path under my care.

I slipped on indoor slippers and headed to the kitchen. Xiao Xian followed in my old shoes—too big, but she hopped along cheerfully. Obediently, she reached the sink, turned the tap, and scrubbed her rosy little hands.

I pulled on oven mitts and carried the pot of braised beef to the table. Lifting the lid, a rich, spicy aroma burst out. My face lit with pride—this was *my* creation. Even Xiao Xian parted her lips slightly, hands on the table, eyes wide with hungry anticipation.

To nurture her independence early, I sat first and gestured grandly.

“Go fetch Daddy a bowl of rice—and don’t forget the chopsticks!”