Lingzhi blinked at his serious expression. “If you’re asking whether I feel sorry for him in a way that belittles him, then no. When he first called me ‘Mom’ without warning, I was shocked. But as we talked and spent time together, he asked me if it was okay for him to call me that.”
She paused for a moment, then continued, her voice softer. “I asked him why he wanted to, and he simply said, ‘Because I love you.’”
Julian remained silent, his sharp gaze fixed on her as he listened intently.
Lingzhi met his eyes, unwavering. “I know this could easily be misunderstood. But please understand—I don’t pity him. We just... share a similar past. And because of that, I understand why he feels the way he does.”
A heavy silence hung between them, unspoken emotions lingering in the air.
Lingzhi found herself deep in thought, wondering if this situation was a test for her or if Julian’s concern was purely out of sincerity for his nephew. Was he worried that Alex might get hurt? That he might develop false hope because of a stranger like her? But now, she understood completely. Julian wasn’t being cold—he was being protective. He was a man who deeply cared for the boy, stepping in as a father figure after Alex’s parents passed away too soon.
“I’m sorry for being rude,” Julian said, his voice softer this time.
Lingzhi shook her head with a gentle smile. “No, you don’t need to apologize. I understand where you’re coming from. I see this as you showing love and concern for your nephew. And honestly, I truly admire you for that.”
