[A slow-to-open, well-behaved girl from a family that favors boys over girls × a cool, handsome guy from a single-parent family who is cold on the outside but warm within. Short story, first person, female protagonist's perspective, family conflict, misunderstandings and reconciliation, tearjerker, character growth, sweet moments, tragic ending]
I was born into a family that favored boys over girls. From a young age, I did my best to play the part of the “good daughter,” the “good big sister,” and the “child everyone else's parents wished they had.”
01
“Come on, don't be sad. It's your last Children's Day. I'll take you to the amusement park.”
“Who wants to go to an amusement park? I'm not a little kid anymore.” I pouted.
“I say you are, so you are.”
02
“All right, you can open your eyes now!” His eyes sparkled as he placed a jar filled with folded paper stars in my palm.
“Big Sis, you have to keep going.” He still had an oxygen tube in his nose, but he patted his chest with his little hand. “Mom and Dad said... when I grow up, I'll be just as amazing as you, and I'll make lots of money for you to spend! ... Cough, cough...”
03
“I'm Xiao Ji's aunt...”
“Don't worry, it won't happen.” Ji Nian served me some food. “Let's just enjoy our meal.”
“This time...” Ji Nian took a deep breath. “I'm going to die, aren't I?”
Everyone fell silent... Then she suddenly forced a smile. “It's okay. I'm not afraid. I...”
“I'm happy. I've truly, truly had enough happiness... I hope everyone can be happy.”
