Qiao Zhen had always lived a quiet life when he was a child. He did not go to school like the other kids in the neighborhood. His parents had chosen to home-tutor him instead.
At first, he felt lonely. He used to sit by the window, watching the other kids run and laugh on the street, and wonder what it felt like to have many friends. But his parents had their reasons.
They wanted him safe, and they wanted him to grow strong in both books and skills.
Everything changed when he turned ten years old. That was the year his little sister was born. The day she was brought home, he was so thrilled that he jumped around the house.
"Finally, I have someone to look after," he said, clapping his hands. His parents laughed, watching his excitement.
When the baby grew old enough to understand, Qiao Zhen would sit beside her crib and talk to her. "You are my sister, but you are not the only sister I have," he would whisper.
