490 Up (1/2)

Do you know that feeling of euphoria one feels when your baby recognizes you and smiles back at you? It's one of the most precious moments of being a parent. Right now, Ah-Si was feeling those euphoric feelings all over again. Even though Ava's first word wasn't 'Dada', it was still a proud moment for him. How could it not be? His daughter finally said something which meant there was nothing wrong with her.

Even though she called her uncle first, it didn't make this moment any less special to him.

However, Ah-Si was having trouble believing what he heard or saw. His trembling finger pointed in the direction of his daughter as he questioned, ”Did... Did she really talk?”

”What do you think?” retorted Xiu who seemed too proud of herself right now. After all, it was she who brought Jackie here. See? She knew her little brother was just simply amazing! And Jackie definitely didn't let her expectations down.

”I thought I'm hearing things...”

Although Ah-Si's face showed all his feelings of happiness, excitement, and a touch of tears, she was still interested in seeing Xin Zimen's reaction. However, she was disappointed when she didn't find any visible change in his emotions. He still stood as calmly as he did before.

Xiu had to mention this, he must be the person with the best poker face that came across her. How was he so good at it that she didn't even find a flicker of change in his eyes?

Jackie, on the other hand, pinched Ava's cheek saying, ”That's like a good niece. Now, don't babble again. If you want to call me, say my name. I'm not your father who can understand your silence.”

Xiu couldn't believe this little brother was actually looking for an argument with his own niece now. Now, what was wrong with him?! That's no way to bond with a baby!

As she walked over, so did Ah-Si and Xin Zimen. While Xin Zimen stood at the side with a thoughtful look, Ah-Si went to his daughter. ”Baby, you just talked. I still can't believe it. That's your first word. Can you try calling dad?”

Xiu disregarded Ah-Si's eagerness as she pulled her own little brother aside and asked, ”What did you do?”

”Nothing,” he replied in a low voice just like her.

Xiu squinted her eyes at him. ”Did you threaten her to speak?”

”I might have,” said Jackie indifferently.

Xiu pressed her lips together before patting his head, ”You're definitely my brother.” She asked after a pause, ”Wanna tell me the details?”

”It's a secret,” he shrugged.