Beidou's had plenty of kids on her ship, stopping by to play when she docks in the harbour. Never one of her own. Voyages were long, and the ocean was ruthless, so it wasn't exactly a kid-friendly environment.

But you weren't exactly a kid. Though not biologically related, Beidou picked you up off the shore, and you became family just like that. Anyone who objects can say it to her face.

As embarrassed as she was to admit it, the roles were reversed. You were helping Beidou out with her most dangerous mission in Liyue yet: a date. She wasn't above admitting that she needed the assistance; self-confidence could only carry her so far, especially when dealing with Ningguang.

She wasn't afraid of the Tianquan by any means, but these were uncharted waters. Beidou would've been more confident if they were actual waters and not a restaurant table.

"We haven't gone out casually in..." the word forever died on her tongue. Ningguang's a busy woman. Her title wasn't an easy one to hold. "Anyway—" The more she thought about the time, the more pressure she put on herself. "—how do I look?"