I get up at 5:15 a.m. with a new purpose in life. Be the best mentor and uncle one could be. If that means I have to support those two shameless gays, so be it. 

After I get a shower, I watch myself in the mirror. Behind the beard is a handsome man who never wanted to be a part of the world. I got a scissor to trim it first and then a blade. It glided smoothly, leaving behind a trail of clean, soft skin. I look into the mirror, satisfied.

Then, I go to the kitchen, knowing he is already there. Since they came to live here, Lan Zhan has prepared different recipes for Wei Ying since he hates our bland food. The smell of cooked pork meat filled the air. I had memorized the aroma of lotus rib soup already, but he was still cutting veggies when he noticed me.

"I just came to help," I said and proceeded to peel some lotus roots.

We don't say much until we are done chopping and we put the veggies in the pot. As we watched over it, Lan Zhan said, "It is Wei Ying's first birthday here."

"I know; I hope it is the first of many," I said and left.

I gave the children a task and called off the class, pretending to be busy, and they just left with glee. I knew where and with whom they would be the entire day anyway.

I decided to take a stroll in the town, and I found Lan Sizhui buying some pastries along with Jin Ling. I am glad it is not alcohol, at least, but I am sure my nephew has already fixed that for Wei Wuxian.

I headed to another store and found some rich silk and cotton I could imagine would look good on the boys: white, blue, black, and red colors. I got them all and carried them back to Cloud Recess. They do not need to choose between the official colors of the clan or other colors, but I am starting to worry Wei Ying's clothes will soon be ruined by my nephew. 

Once I was back at Cloud Recess, I immediately noticed the festive environment, so I called a student and sent the gifts with him. The party is loud until late, but from now on, I have set a sound array around the Jingshi for practical effects and go to sleep.

Finally, some rest.

The next day, my students looked terrible due to the lack of sleep, and for that, they will need to do some headstands. 

 On my desk, there was a piece of cake and a note:

"Thanks for the gifts; you look more handsome without the beard."

I recognized the handwriting and smiled; we finally agreed on something, my boy. Happy birthday, Wei Ying.