chapter 5

Huo Mingchen didn’t want his dad to worry, so he made me pinky swear to keep it a secret.

A secret is a secret, but he really couldn’t stay at that kindergarten any longer.

His classmates isolated him, and the teachers just tried to smooth things over.

This certainly wasn’t the first time Little Fatty had bullied him.

Such an environment isn’t good for a child’s healthy growth.

It would be best to find him a new, better school.

Soon, I found a kindergarten that values hands-on experience.

In the mornings, the kids are assigned different tasks: washing vegetables, chopping, cooking, and washing dishes.

In the afternoons, they work in the garden, carry water, pick vegetables, and feed the chickens.

Just like that, Huo Mingchen transferred to the new school, looking bright and lively.

Even if he really is introverted and withdrawn, he still has to work together with everyone.

There’s no need to worry about him having no one to talk to.

Both teachers and parents praised the school!

At first, Huo Mingchen was reluctant.

But after being praised by the teacher, he visibly perked up.

Every day, he came home with a spring in his step.

Lately, though, I noticed he seemed a bit down.

He looked troubled, but wouldn’t say why.

After telling him a story, I took the chance to ask while he was drowsy and his guard was down.

“Is it trouble getting along with your classmates?”

Huo Mingchen looked defeated, his lips drooping.

“My desk-mate said there’s no spark in my eyes and doesn’t want to partner with me.”

I thought back.

His desk-mate is a cute little girl with braided pigtails.

On the first day of school, she patted her chest and said, “Don’t worry, I’ll take care of him.”

She acted like a little grown-up, which was both funny and endearing.

Looks like this kid really likes her.

I fought hard to suppress my smile.

I cleared my throat and comforted him:

“Then show her how hardworking you are – our child is the most diligent!”

“If you work hard and become class monitor, she’ll definitely change her opinion of you.”

Huo Mingchen’s eyes grew brighter and brighter, and he nodded vigorously.

“Thank you, Xiaxia!”

I was surprised for a moment.

After saying it, the child seemed embarrassed.

He swallowed nervously and gripped his little blanket tightly.

“Is it okay if I call you that?”

A soft spot opened in my heart.

“Of course you can.”

Huo Mingchen shyly burrowed into his covers, his voice full of excitement.

“Hehe, good night, Xiaxia!”

“Good night, Xiao Chen.”