"Drifting and homeless? Suffering hardships? Song Nian, have you had it too good for too long that you're starting to seek discomfort?" Lu Zhonian's voice was laced with ice, very cold, as he said, "Stop these wild thoughts of yours; you simply have no idea what real life is actually like."
"I know..." Song Nian was resolute, "I'm not afraid of anything."
Lu Zhonian stood up, took the cake from the side, and placed it on the table.
Lu Zhonian loathed the sweetness, detested the meaningless sense of ceremony.
But for so many years, this was how he had celebrated Song Nian's birthday.
She was always an exception to him, realizing belatedly, breaking his own rules many times.
Lu Zhonian picked up the candle, carefully inserted it into the cake, and lit it with a lighter.
The flame flickered, casting light on Song Nian's face, her eyes bright, pupil's color deep.
Lu Zhonian said, "Nian Nian, make a new wish."
Song Nian's gaze dimmed.
She understood Lu Zhonian's implication.
