[A slow-to-warm, well-behaved girl from a family that favors boys over girls vs. a handsome, aloof guy who's warm underneath from a single-parent family. Short story, first person, female lead's perspective, family conflict, misunderstandings and reconciliation, emotional, with character growth and sweet moments, tragic ending]
I was born into a family that favored boys over girls. From a young age, I worked hard to play the role of the "good daughter," the "good big sister," and the "kid everyone else's parents wished they had."
---01---
"All right, all right. Don't be upset. It's your last Children's Day, so 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---
"Okay, you can open your eyes now!" His eyes sparkled as he placed a jar filled with folded paper stars in my hand.
"Big Sister, do your best!" He still had an oxygen tube in his nose, but patted his chest with his little hand. "Mom and Dad said... when I grow up, I'll be just as amazing as you and earn 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 really, truly had more than enough happiness... Everyone, just be happy."
Theme: We will always be ourselves. Even without you, I'll stay strong.
I hope you all will support me!