24 Adopt You (2/2)

”Pftt--!”

Choking towards her words, the Commander practically fell off his stool. Aiya, he should really deliver this child a fierce beating of common sense!

”You little brat! I never cry, how dare you imply I do!” He argued intensely.

Properly containing the laughter forming to burst, Rin merely nods her youthful head with a hidden smile.

”Yes, Rin understands. The Commander is a distinct individual who doesn't shed a tear,” Rin spoke powerfully with a veiled teasing tone.

”Are you mocking this old Commander?” He narrowed his brilliant eyes dangerously low.

”Rin wouldn't dare.” She grinned with a tilted head.

”...”

Soon the two both burst into fits of laughter. The air in the tent returning harmoniously once more. The Commander smiled tenderly upon seeing Rin's pure laugh.

He was assured, no matter what he would be sure to protect this little girl from the dangers in the outside world.

”Say, girl, how about you provide this old man some company for a while?” He smiled serenely.

Rin stared blankly for a few possible seconds before a distinctive look of what could be described as evident disgust and disappointment appeared on her face.

The old Commander felt his upper lip twitch witnessing her expression.

She even had the nerve to shift away from him!

”Aiya! What vile thoughts do you have in your head you little brat!” Commander Bai snapped. ”I meant as in living in my Bai household.”

Her previous look of disgust instantly transformed into one of apparent confusion.

”What is Commander Bai trying to say?” Rin spoke cautiously.

Grinning broadly, the old Commander puffs out his chest proudly.

”I would like to adopt you into my Bai household.”