Just then, something miraculous quietly happened.
The fish that had been swimming about in all directions seemed to have received an invisible summons. They rapidly gathered at the edge of the pond in groups, rising one after another to the clear surface.
Their tiny mouths opened and closed without pause, spitting out strings of sparkling bubbles. Their round fish eyes were fixed intently on Zhou Tongtong, quiet and gentle.
"Hello, everyone."
Looking at the little goldfish gathered before her, Zhou Tongtong smiled until her eyes curved into crescents and greeted them in a soft, sweet voice.
She slowly stretched out her fair little hand, bringing her slender index finger gently toward the water's surface and closer to the leading golden fish.
The golden fish was especially bold. It slowly swam forward and lightly brushed Zhou Tongtong's fingertip with its lips.
The faintly cool touch made Zhou Tongtong let out a string of clear, melodious laughter, her crisp childish voice slowly spreading through the quiet corner.
Beside the greenery near the fish pond, several plump gray pigeons were strolling about at an unhurried pace in search of food, their round bodies adorably clumsy.
Hearing Zhou Tongtong's laughter, they immediately raised their heads and flapped into the air. After circling lightly a few times overhead, they slowly descended and approached Zhou Tongtong step by step.
"You came too."
As Zhou Tongtong looked at the chubby pigeons gathering around her, a delighted light lit up in her eyes. She gently greeted them as well.
The pigeons surrounded her feet, continuously cooing in low voices and rubbing their heads against her, their eyes full of expectation. Clearly, they were begging for food.
Tilting her little head, Zhou Tongtong listened seriously to the pigeons' calls. Then she shook her head solemnly. "I didn't bring any