As soon as Xiao Xian’s words landed, I froze.

What even is this—a daughter helping her dad chase after her mom?

Wait… actually, not a bad idea at all. Isn’t Xiao Xian my biggest advantage right now?

I set down my chopsticks and bowl immediately, fixing her with an eager look. Encouraged, Xiao Xian beamed and declared loudly:

“Father, take me to school tomorrow! I’ll find Mom—she’ll definitely believe Xiao Xian!”

“…”

The air turned icy. I clicked my tongue noncommittally, plucked a slice of lean beef from the pot, and popped it into my mouth. Only the sound of chewing filled the silence.

“Father!” Xiao Xian huffed, clearly annoyed by my indifferent expression.

“Even a big silly dad like you believes Xiao Xian! Mom will too!”

Why did that make me want to flick her forehead? Guess my paternal authority needs work. I’ll deal with her later.

“Eat! No talking during meals!” My voice sharpened.

Xiao Xian’s flushed, angry face instantly wilted. She pouted, muttering under her breath: “Father’s a dummy… Father’s the worst…”

I ignored her. After a quick grumble, she obediently ate. Soon, only the soft clinks of bowls and chopsticks echoed.

Truth is, I knew Xiao Xian just wanted to reunite with Mom. Her little mind was simply overestimating things.

Right now, who knows how Senpai truly feels about me? If I had to force an analogy: “The enemy hides in shadow; I stand exposed in light.” My crush has been obvious since day one—but Senpai? She might just see me as a quirky junior. Her kindness could stem solely from me being in her student council. Even that last greeting? Probably just seniorly concern.

If I drag Xiao Xian into this… what would that make me? A schemer using a child to pressure someone? How many “shotgun weddings” end in real love? Usually just compromises forced by gossip or family pressure.

I like Senpai. Loved her from the very first glance.

Xiao Xian is the fruit of our love. Love can’t sprout from its own fruit—it must bloom first. Only then does the fruit belong.

So Xiao Xian, don’t blame Dad for keeping you apart. Doing otherwise would paint me as someone with ulterior motives.

Lost in thought, I slid another beef slice onto her plate. Her grumbling had finally stopped.

Yep—kids’ tempers flare fast and fade faster.

Then Xiao Xian let out a soft “Ah…” and opened her mouth.

…Ah. I got it.

Sigh. I am her dad, after all.

I lifted another piece of meat and guided it straight to her lips.

She caught the chopstick tip between her teeth, refusing to let go, and grinned blissfully.

I tugged the chopsticks free—only to find her still staring. I’d just picked up the next bite for myself when I paused.

“What is it?”

A mischievous smile curved her lips.

“I was wondering… if Father eats this piece… does that count as an indirect kiss with Xiao Xian?”

“!?”