Chapter 222

All along, they had been more than just mother and daughter. Each had played other roles in the family, too.

Shen Wan held back her urge to control things, giving her daughter room and freedom to grow. "Whenever you're sad or hurt... whenever you need Mom... my arms will always be open to you."

"You're never alone, Suìsuì. You know that, right?"

There was no blame, only warm reassurance.

"I know," Shen Baili murmured.

"Mom, I love you so much."

"I love you too, sweetheart." Shen Wan kissed the top of her head.

The mother and daughter lay in bed chatting for a while. After washing up together, they went downstairs to the dining room for breakfast.

They both had fairly light breakfasts. Shen Baili was already hungry, and even after drinking two bowls of lean pork congee in one go, she still wasn't full.

She had used up a great deal of energy and urgently needed to replenish it.

Shen Wan was only halfway through her first bowl. She glanced at her daughter from time to time, glad to see her eating well.

Before they finished, Xie Zhiyu came downstairs.

"Good morning, Aunt Shen, Suìsuì."

He wore light gray loungewear, and his black hair lay neatly in place, softening his usually imposing air.

After greeting Shen Wan, Xie Zhiyu looked at Shen Baili, who was eating with relish. Her cheeks had regained their color, and her appetite was back. She seemed to be recovering well.

Shen Baili immediately looked up from her congee. With her cheeks full, she waved eagerly at Xie Zhiyu, her beautiful eyes sparkling.

Eldest Brother! Eldest Brother's home!

It was rare to find Xie Zhiyu at home at this hour.

Shen Baili swallowed her mouthful of pork. "Eldest Brother!"

"Have you eaten? Want to