Feng Xiao Xiao gently pushed open the door to a sunlit study, the scent of books and soft lavender lingering in the air.
Sitting cross-legged on the carpet, her little brother Feng Chen was building a model spaceship, his soft black hair falling over his eyes, tongue poking out in focus.
He looked up the moment he heard her steps.
"Jiejie!" he beamed, springing up and wrapping his arms around her waist.
Xiao Xiao's chest tightened painfully. In her past life, she was so blinded by love and betrayal that she didn't protect him. He had smiled like this even then—right before they poisoned him.
She knelt and held him tightly. "Chen'er, did you miss me?"
He giggled. "Of course! You've been going out a lot. Grandpa says you're learning to become smart like him."
She smiled. "That's right. I want to protect you. Will you let me do that this time?"
He blinked. "What do you mean, 'this time'?"
Her heart dropped—but she smiled, hiding the sadness in her eyes. "Nothing. I just mean I won't let anyone hurt you, ever again."
Feng Chen nodded, completely trusting. "Okay! I believe you, Jiejie."
She stroked his hair. "From now on, don't eat anything unless I say it's safe. Not even from the maids, not even if Feng Qian gives it to you. Okay?"
He tilted his head. "But she always brings me snacks…"
Xiao Xiao's voice hardened. "Promise me."
His eyes widened, sensing something serious beneath her tone. "Okay. I promise you sis."
She hugged him again, tighter this time. In this life, I won't let you die. Not for them. Not ever.
From the hallway, a pair of sharp eyes watched in silence—Old Master Feng, cane in hand, lips pressed together in solemn approval.
She's awake now. Finally, he thought.