Chapter 28: That Rake Writes a Song

Chapter 28: That Rake Writes a Song

A Taste Like No Other

Shen Jiaoyue hesitated for a moment before cautiously picking up a piece of beef with her chopsticks.

At first glance, it seemed like an ordinary stew—nothing extraordinary. In her experience, premium Kobe beef was best enjoyed as a finely prepared steak, cooked to perfection. However, the moment she took a bite, her assumptions were shattered.

The meat melted effortlessly in her mouth, the flavors bursting forth in an exquisite blend of rich juices and delicate seasoning. The texture was neither too soft nor too tough, perfectly cut along the natural grain of the beef, making each bite both tender and satisfyingly chewy.

She let out an involuntary gasp. "This is… incredible!"

Sisi, who had been happily munching away, giggled at her mother's reaction. "Mama, that's what I said when I first ate Papa's food! He's the best cook in the world!"

Xiao Cheng chuckled at his daughter's enthusiasm. "From now on, Papa will cook for you every day."

Hearing this, Sisi's eyes lit up with pure joy. She quickly jumped off her chair and ran over to Xiao Cheng, extending her tiny pinky finger toward him.

"Rake, you're the best! You always cook for me!"

Xiao Cheng blinked in surprise at the unexpected nickname but quickly smiled. Without hesitation, he extended his own finger and linked it with hers.

"Pull the hook," he said softly.

Their fingers intertwined in a promise, a moment so simple yet deeply meaningful.

Shen Jiaoyue watched from across the table, her expression darkening slightly.

"Sisi, sit properly when you're eating. No running around during meals," she scolded.

Sisi's excitement dimmed slightly as she returned to her seat, her voice soft. "I'm sorry, Mama. I'll eat properly now."

Xiao Cheng didn't intervene, nor did he seem bothered. He simply watched the interaction unfold with calm eyes.

For him, Sisi's happiness was the most important thing in the world.

As for Shen Jiaoyue's attempts to maintain her authority?

It didn't matter.

However, deep inside, Shen Jiaoyue felt a strange unease. It wasn't just about discipline—it was about her place in Sisi's heart.

She had once been the most important person in her daughter's life. But now… was that changing?

A Moment of Reflection

After dinner, Shen Jiaoyue stretched, feeling an unfamiliar sensation—relaxation.

The weight of her company's contract issues, the stress of the past few weeks, and even the lingering tension with Xiao Cheng had momentarily faded.

Tonight, she had laughed. She had eaten the best meal she could remember.

And, most of all, she had felt safe.

She looked around the luxurious villa, the warm lighting casting soft glows on the walls, and for the first time in a long while, she didn't feel overwhelmed.

Then, something unexpected happened.

Xiao Cheng didn't call for a maid. Instead, he began clearing the table himself.

Shen Jiaoyue was startled. "Wait—you cooked the meal, so I should at least clean up."

Xiao Cheng glanced at her and shrugged. "If you want to, go ahead."

She wasted no time, heading into the kitchen to wash the dishes.

As she scrubbed the plates, her gaze kept drifting back toward the living room.

Xiao Cheng was sitting on the floor, playing with Sisi. His tall, lean figure contrasted sharply with his gentle movements as he indulged in his daughter's playful antics.

Sisi's silvery laughter rang through the room.

Shen Jiaoyue froze.

When was the last time she had heard Sisi laugh like that?

Before, if she wanted Sisi to smile, she had to coax her, bribe her, or set up some extravagant outing.

Yet now, just sitting there with Xiao Cheng, Sisi looked happier than she ever had.

A bitter smile tugged at Shen Jiaoyue's lips.

If only things had been different…

Shaking off her thoughts, she finished the dishes and wiped her hands before turning toward Xiao Cheng.

Taking a deep breath, she stepped forward.

"Xiao Cheng," she said firmly.

He looked up at her, his expression unreadable. "What is it?"

She hesitated, then bowed slightly.

"I'm sorry. I misunderstood you before." Her voice softened. "You're a good father."

Xiao Cheng studied her for a moment before waving a hand dismissively. "It's fine."

That was it.

No further discussion, no warmth—just a simple acknowledgment.

Shen Jiaoyue felt the distance between them like an invisible wall.

She had expected a more emotional response, perhaps even a conversation.

But she should have known better.

Xiao Cheng was always like this—calm, detached, unshaken by emotions.

Meanwhile, Sisi was practically bouncing with excitement.

Her small body twirled in circles, her energy boundless. "Mama and Papa made up! This is the best day ever!"

Xiao Cheng chuckled, ruffling her hair. "You're in a good mood, huh?"

Sisi nodded eagerly. "Yes! I want to sing a song, but I don't know what song to sing!"

Xiao Cheng tilted his head. "Well, the best songs are the ones that come from the heart. Maybe I should write one for you?"

Shen Jiaoyue blinked in surprise. "You… write songs?"

Xiao Cheng smirked. "Why not?"

Shen Jiaoyue frowned slightly. "Xiao Cheng, we can't spoil her too much. A professional songwriter would do a better job."

But Sisi was already jumping up and down in excitement. "No, no! I want Papa to write it!"

Xiao Cheng leaned back, his smile growing. "Then it's decided. I'll write you a song that's just for you."

Sisi cheered, her joy infectious.

Shen Jiaoyue looked at Xiao Cheng, conflicted.

What else is he capable of?

Every time she thought she had figured him out, he surprised her again.

As she watched him lift Sisi into his arms, a small, unshakable thought took root in her mind.

If she had made a different choice in the past…

Would they have been a real family now?