What My Foolish Daughter Taught Me

I often think back to the day I first met Xiao Qing.

A sudden typhoon in June brought heavy rain, washing away the muggy heat of the sunny afternoon. The temperature plunged by more than ten degrees, as if winter had arrived.

As delicate as a spring rain, Xiao Qing clutched a pink plush toy and timidly hid behind the caregiver.

"From today on, he'll be taking care of you."

At the caregiver's smiling encouragement, Xiao Qing cautiously peeked out, her face red. She glanced at me, then immediately lowered her head.

"H-hello..."