20

We spring apart, hearts racing.

"Dad! Why are you here?"

In a Tang suit, Qiao Hongsheng stands by the car with his dog, eyeing us knowingly.

Lin Shen gets out to greet him. "Uncle Qiao, I was dropping Qiao Lu off."

Qiao Hongsheng pats his shoulder, handing him the leash.

"Come inside."

I trail behind my dad, wishing I could hide in my collar.

Lin Shen walks beside me, holding the dog.

We've done nothing, so why do I feel so guilty?

In the courtyard, the maids giggle behind pillars.

They must've seen us in the car!

I want to disappear.

I'm called to my room while Lin Shen follows Dad to the study.

Qiao Lan's wedding is next week, and the house is festive.

Since she took over the company, Dad's semi-retired, spending his days with his birds and dog.

No wonder he caught me coming home.

I pretend to get milk but eavesdrop by the study door.

Nothing.

The door swings open, and I fall into Lin Shen's arms, splashing milk all over him.