"Yes! I ate a million cakes! And I drew you a purple cape!" Huaijin shouted, pointing back at the table.
Yuanfeng looked over at the other children and Mr. Shen. He saw the crumbs on the table and the happy faces of his niece and nephews. He gave Mr. Shen a polite nod, the kind of nod one scholar gives another.
"I hope she wasn't too much trouble, Mr. Shen," Yuanfeng said with a warm smile.
"Not at all, Professor," Mr. Shen replied, walking over to hand Huaijin her messy drawing. "In fact, I think Miss Huaijin was the best teacher in the room today. She taught us all how to enjoy a Tuesday."
Yuanfeng's eyes softened as he looked at his daughter. He knew she was special. He knew she was doing things to help this family that even he couldn't do.
"Time to go, sweetheart," Yuanfeng said. "Say goodbye to your cousins."
Huaijin waved her little hand frantically. "Bye-bye, sister Yuanying! Bye-bye Big Brother Song! Don't forget to practice your smiles! We have a picnic soon!"
