As they headed out, Niki instinctively reached for Danielle’s hand, but her gaze kept drifting toward Alexander. Noticing her small gesture, Alexander hesitated for a moment before extending his own hand and gently taking hers.
Niki’s hand was small, soft, and warm with a child’s heat. The moment it touched his palm, Alexander’s heart melted. The unfamiliar yet comforting sensation slowly eased the tension he always carried.
Surprised to have her hand held by him, Niki’s smile grew even brighter, and she squeezed his fingers tightly in return.
On the way, Niki chattered away like a happy little bird. Alexander listened patiently, occasionally nodding or asking a simple question. The atmosphere was warm and harmonious.
At KFC, Niki ran straight to the counter, standing on her tiptoes to look at the menu board, carefully choosing what she wanted.
“Daddy, what do you want to eat?” she asked, turning around and tilting her small face up at Alexander, her eyes full of dependence.
“You choose. I’m fine with anything,” Alexander said, his voice indulgent.
Danielle stood to the side, her heart warming as she watched the father and daughter interact. She ordered Niki’s favorites—fries, Original Recipe chicken, and a tart—then added a hot drink and a burger for Alexander.
After they found a table, Niki eagerly picked up a fry, dipped it in ketchup, and held it up to Alexander. “Daddy, you eat.”
Without hesitation, Alexander opened his mouth and accepted it. The crispness of the fry and the sweet tang of the ketchup melted on his tongue. He watched Niki’s contented expression, an unconscious smile touching his lips.
“Daddy, did you not like me before?” Niki suddenly stopped eating and looked up at him, her big eyes filled with a cautious curiosity.

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