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00:00To let my husband focus on his career, I stayed at Ancestral Home to care for my ailing mother-in
00:04-law.
00:04Ten years went by like that.
00:06Charles came home once a year, but he never touched me.
00:08He said if I got pregnant with him away, I'd have no one to care for me, and that would
00:11break his heart.
00:12Every time he left, he'd curse himself for being useless, and swear that once he made it, he'd take me
00:16to the capital.
00:16In the winter of our eleventh year, snow blocked the roads.
00:18Charles wrote he'd be a few days late.
00:20I went to tell mother the news, but overheard her talking with my sister-in-law.
00:23Mother, you've faked being sick for ten years. How much longer will you keep this up?
00:27Mother sighed.
00:27What else can I do? Charles only has eyes for that adopted sister.
00:31They're married behind our backs. Now their kids aren't young.
00:34If I don't keep Diana here, and she makes a scene, how could Charles keep his position as minister?
00:39Forget it. We'll just keep hiding it.
00:41Charles said, once he's more established, he'll make it up to Diana.
00:45My eyes welled up. So, Charles wasn't useless. He'd made it.
00:49He was the minister of revenue, and he didn't avoid me out of love, but because he had someone else.
00:53My heart died. I tracked down that soldier who'd always liked me.
00:56Do you still want to marry me? His face lit up. He raised a trembling hand and swore.
01:01Diana, I promise I'll be good to you. But give me a month. I ship out tonight. I'll earn real
01:05merit this time, and marry you in style.
01:07I lowered his hand and said, I don't need style. Just stability. Keep yourself safe. Just come back to me.
01:11After watching him leave, I went home. The house, usually dark, was lit up. I thought Mother was waiting for
01:17me.
01:17Opening the gate, I chied her. Mother, it's so late. You should rest. Before I finished, the doors lit open.
01:22A tall figure stood silhouetted by candlelight. A familiar voice, laced with snow, reached me.
01:26Diana, I'm home.
01:27A year away, and Charles seemed more commanding. Probably from being a high official, his tone carried authority.
01:32He opened his arms, waiting for me to run into them and tell him how much I'd missed him.
01:36But I didn't. I set down my basket and said calmly, you haven't eaten, have you? Let me make you
01:40something.
01:41Charles frowned slightly, awkwardly lowering his arms, forcing a light tone.
01:45What's wrong? You don't miss me after a year? Or are you angry at me?
01:48Before I knew the truth, I really did miss him. And I was a little upset too.
01:52No one wants to be apart from her husband so long, and so far away.
01:55But after learning everything, I stopped hoping. I made peace with it.
01:59Instead of fighting, better to part on good terms and leave quietly.
02:02I didn't answer. Instead, I changed the subject.
02:04Go talk with Mother. I'll call you when dinner's ready.
02:06I said nothing more and went to the kitchen.
02:08But Charles followed. He pulled me into his arms and asked cautiously,
02:12Diana, what's wrong? Did you hear some rumor?
02:15I pushed him away calmly and smiled.
02:17This poor village rarely sees outsiders. What could I hear? Don't overthink it.
02:21Charles sighed with relief. He thought I was just moody and pulled me back in.
02:26Diana, I came back to take you all to the Capitol. But there's something I need to tell you first.
02:31My heart clenched. I knew what he'd say. After all these years, he was finally coming clean.
02:36Charles led me inside. I was surprised. Mother wasn't alone.
02:39There was a richly dressed woman and two children who looked just like Charles.
02:42Mother looked down guiltily, unable to meet my eyes.
02:45But the woman walked up boldly and extended her hand.
02:47You're Diana Jensen, right? I'm Esther Carter, Charles' adopted sister and his wife.
02:51When I didn't respond, she pushed the children forward.
02:54These are our son and daughter. Come on, call her Diana.
02:57Seeing my cold expression, Charles quickly stopped her. He took my hand guiltily.
03:00Diana, let me explain.
03:02He took my hand guiltily.
03:03Diana, let me explain. That year, bandits attacked me on my way to the Capitol exams.
03:07If Esther hadn't saved me, I would have died. I only meant to make her my sworn sister.
03:11Then I learned she was an orphan with nowhere to go.
03:14I wanted to give her a home. It was my way of repaying her.
03:16If it hurts, you can hit me, curse me. Just, when we get to the Capitol, I hope you two
03:21can get along.
03:22He grabbed my hand to make me him. I pulled it back and smiled calmly.
03:26Going to the Capitol is a good thing. It doesn't hurt. Mother's been unwell for years.
03:29Maybe the Capitol's doctors can cure her.
03:31Charles was overjoyed, barely able to contain himself.
03:33Really? You're not mad at me?
03:35My composure let Charles breathe easy. He urged me.
03:38Diana, pack your things. We'll leave the day after tomorrow. We can still make it back for New Year's Eve.
03:42I nodded and said, Mother doesn't have much. It won't take long. I'll pack the medicine she'll need on the
03:47road.
03:47You can all leave the day after tomorrow.
03:49Charles stiffened. He understood immediately. He frowned.
03:52Diana, what do you mean? You're not coming with us?
03:55I met his eyes, my voice calm.
03:57My lord, we probably won't come back after this.
03:59I need to sell the fields and the house. If they sit empty, we'd still owe taxes. It'd be a
04:03waste.
04:03If they sit empty, we'd still owe taxes. It'd be a waste.
04:06Take everyone back for the holiday. Once I've settled things here, I'll join you after the thaw.
04:09Charles relaxed a little. He knew what this house and land meant to me.
04:13When I first married in, the shahs had nothing. We rented a drafty shack.
04:17I worked myself to the bone, put him through school and exams, and saved for this house and two fields.
04:22That's how we stopped worrying about food. And Charles got a place to study in peace.
04:26Maybe remembering those days, his eyes softened with guilt.
04:29Diana, I'm the Minister of Revenue now. Money's not an issue. Just give the land away to some poor folks.
04:34Save yourself the trouble.
04:35I smiled and shook my head. They're my sweat and blood. I can't just give them away.
04:39Don't worry, my lord. I'll come find you once it's done. I won't delay.
04:42For a moment, Charles hesitated.
04:43Esther caught it and tugged his sleeve, annoyed. She warned him.
04:47My lord, don't go soft. The censorate has eyes on you.
04:50If you leave her here and they come asking and she slips up, how long do you think you'll keep
04:53your post?
04:53I'm not stupid. I understood Esther immediately.
04:56So, Charles wasn't having a change of heart. Someone had found out about his first wife.
05:00If they confirmed it, the censorate would have a field day.
05:03The emperor is a devoted man. He despises men who abandon their wives.
05:06The emperor is a devoted man. He despises men who abandon their wives.
05:10If Charles wants to keep his post, he needs to keep me happy and make sure I keep my mouth
05:14shut.
05:14Thinking about it, I'd be lying if I said it didn't sting.
05:16I married Charles 13 years ago. I gave him everything I had.
05:19Charles was a scholar. Couldn't do real work.
05:21His mother was old. No help either.
05:23His brother was a lazy good-for-nothing.
05:25I was the one keeping the family afloat.
05:27But I never complained. I cared for mother.
05:29And even saved up to find his brother, a wife, so they could live decently.
05:31I thought doing all that would earn me his loyalty forever.
05:34But I overestimated my worth.
05:36I finally understood why they say scholars are the most heartless.
05:39I fought back the sting in my eyes, refusing to let the tears fall.
05:41Then, steadying myself, I said,
05:43So that's what worries you, my lord. I can write you a pledge.
05:45No matter who asks, I'll swear I'm a Shaw family orphan.
05:48Your adopted sister. Will that do?
05:49All of them stared. Stunned.
05:51After a long moment, Charles asked, half-doubtful,
05:53Diana, you'd really humble yourself for me?
05:56I smiled and nodded.
05:57For you, I'd do anything.
05:59But just to be safe, there's one thing you must destroy now.
06:02Charles tensed.
06:03What?
06:04I answered calmly.
06:05The marriage contract.
06:06Ours.
06:06I answered calmly.
06:07The marriage contract.
06:08Ours.
06:09We married in a poor village.
06:10No formalities.
06:12A written contract.
06:12A cup of wine.
06:13And it was done.
06:14We never registered it with the authorities.
06:15So, if we destroy the contract, I'm no longer Charles' wife.
06:18Then, I just wait for that soldier to return.
06:20And I can marry him.
06:21I thought Charles would be relieved.
06:22But for some reason, he hesitated.
06:24Diana, you once said this contract was your greatest treasure.
06:27After all these years, after everything you've done for me, if I destroy the one thing you
06:31treasure, how could you bear it?
06:33Maybe.
06:33We should keep it.
06:35So, he did see everything I gave.
06:37Remembered.
06:38But even so, he still left me here for 10 years.
06:41And built a family with someone else.
06:43If he could treat my devotion like dirt, why should I cling to a piece of paper?
06:46But I knew, with his cautious nature, he wouldn't just let me marry another man.
06:50But I knew, with his suspicious nature, he wouldn't just let me marry another man.
06:53So, I made up a reason.
06:55My lord, you know this contract is my life.
06:57But for your future, I have to let it go.
07:00Once you're in the capital, you can marry me again and give me a new one.
07:03That'll settle it.
07:03Mother nodded in agreement.
07:04Diana's right.
07:05With your position, you can't leave loose ends.
07:08Burn it.
07:09She's putting you first.
07:10You can make it up to her later.
07:12Charles still had doubts.
07:13But he knew I had a point.
07:14He pulled out the contract.
07:16Before lighting it, he said,
07:17Diana, hiding this from you was wrong.
07:19But trust me, I'll be good to you.
07:22Wait for me.
07:23I'll prepare the finest bride price and marry you again properly.
07:25The way he looked, you'd almost think he meant it.
07:28But I didn't believe him.
07:29I told myself it was just an illusion.
07:30I lit both copies myself.
07:32The flames turned that farce of a marriage to ash.
07:34And with it, my decade-long obsession.
07:36I lit both copies myself.
07:38The flames turned that farce of a marriage to ash.
07:40And with it, my decade-long obsession.
07:41For the first time, I felt a flicker of hope.
07:43Wondering at the freedom that could be mine.
07:45After Charles took Esther to rest, Mother stopped me.
07:48She dropped the act and knelt right in front of me.
07:50Diana, I was wrong.
07:51I hid it from you all these years.
07:53You must hate me, don't you?
07:55Her hair was completely white.
07:56Seeing her face wet with tears, I couldn't be cruel.
07:58I helped her up and said calmly,
08:00Mother, you did it because you love your son.
08:02I don't blame you.
08:03Sure, your sickness was faked.
08:04But you've always had your aches and pains.
08:06When you get to the Capitol, listen to the doctors.
08:08Take care of yourself.
08:09Hearing that, she broke down completely.
08:11Diana, how can you be so kind?
08:12Without you, who'll ever treat me this well?
08:15Don't you worry.
08:16No matter how Charles treats you, I'll always see you as my own daughter.
08:20I won't let anyone hurt you.
08:22I'll always see you as my own daughter.
08:24No one will hurt you.
08:25I understood Mother's helplessness, so I never blamed her.
08:28But I wouldn't trust her again either.
08:30She's a mother.
08:31Words are sweet, but blood wins.
08:33If the day ever came when she had to choose between Charles and me,
08:36I knew she'd pick him without a second thought.
08:38I said calmly,
08:39Mother, it's fine.
08:40Whoever Charles marries becomes your daughter-in-law.
08:43You owe me nothing.
08:44As I left her room, Esther blocked my path in the yard.
08:47Diana, don't take Charles' words to heart.
08:49I never saved him.
08:51I thought being deceived by my beloved husband and his mother was the worst blow.
08:55But no, there was more they'd hidden from me.
08:58Esther wasn't his savior at all.
08:59The truth was, Charles fell for her at first sight,
09:02used the sworn sister story to get close,
09:03broke off her original engagement, and married her.
09:05Calling her his savior was just his way to soften me.
09:08He knows I'm kind, that I always repay a debt.
09:11So he and Mother cooked up this story to force my hand,
09:13to make me accept it.
09:15Seeing me stunned, Esther thought her words had hit home.
09:17She smirked.
09:18So when he talks about marrying you in style,
09:19it's all lies.
09:20You'll be nothing but a concubine.
09:22Oh, and Mother, saying she'll treat you like a daughter.
09:24You believe that?
09:25When it's her own son, her own grandchildren.
09:27Do you think you stand a chance?
09:28I blinked back the wetness in my eyes and forced myself to ask,
09:30why tell me this?
09:31You want me to leave quietly, don't you?
09:33Esther shook her head.
09:34Charles is loyal.
09:35You've done so much for this family.
09:37If I drove you away, he'd blame me and regret it forever.
09:39I couldn't do that to him.
09:41I'm just making your place clear.
09:42In the capital, know your role as a concubine.
09:44Don't hope for more status.
09:45And definitely don't hope for children.
09:46Charles promised me I'd be the only one to bear his children.
09:49That's why he never touched you.
09:50If you try anything, don't expect mercy.
09:53But if you behave, I'll make sure you're fed and clothed.
09:56I had no energy for her games.
09:57I nodded just to end it.
09:59The day they left, I saw them to the village edge.
10:01I took my only hairpin, the jade one, and placed it in Esther's palm.
10:04Mother immediately objected.
10:05She took the pin and gave it back.
10:07Diana, I gave you this.
10:08You keep it.
10:10And gave it back.
10:10Diana, I gave you this.
10:12You keep it.
10:13I shook my head and fixed it back on Esther.
10:15This pin is Mother's heirloom.
10:17Everyone knows it's for the Shah daughter-in-law.
10:19If I keep it and someone investigates, it'll just raise questions.
10:22Safer with Esther.
10:24Esther blocked Mother and said softly,
10:25Mother, Diana's right.
10:27When we're together again, I'll give it back to her.
10:29Mother wasn't happy.
10:30But since we both agreed, she just sighed and whispered to me.
10:33Diana, don't worry.
10:34What I gave you is yours.
10:36You're my only true daughter-in-law.
10:39Once you're in the capital, I'll get it back for you.
10:42I nodded, then pointed at the pouch on Charles' belt.
10:45Charles, it is all I have left from my grandma.
10:47She made it right before she passed.
10:49Can I have it back?
10:49Charles frowned slightly and said quietly,
10:52Diana, this new way of addressing me feels strange.
10:54When we're alone, just call me my lord.
10:56When we're alone, just call me my lord.
10:59I shook my head.
11:00Better be cautious.
11:01Can't leave any loose ends.
11:02Charles couldn't convince me.
11:03He sighed.
11:04Fine.
11:04After I marry you again, we'll change it back.
11:06But keep the pouch with me.
11:08It was your gift.
11:09A token of our love.
11:10I didn't understand.
11:11He used to hate this pouch, said men wearing pouches was embarrassing.
11:15Now that I wanted to grant his old wish, why was he refusing?
11:18Charles, it's almost New Year's Eve.
11:20I'll be lonely here alone.
11:21Keeping the pouch gives me something to hold on to.
11:23If you want it back, I'll give it to you when I get to the capital.
11:25Charles reluctantly handed it to me, along with a stack of banknotes.
11:29Just as they were leaving, he turned back.
11:31Hidden by his wide sleeve, he squeezed my hand tight.
11:33He said,
11:34Wait for me.
11:35I'll come for you myself after the thaw.
11:37There's one last thing I need to tell you then.
11:39I didn't ask.
11:40I just nodded.
11:41Okay, after watching them leave, I went back inside and grabbed my bag from the top cabinet.
11:45And grabbed my bag from the top cabinet.
11:48I left Charles' money on the table.
11:50And headed north without looking back.
11:51That's where the man I'll marry is waiting.
11:53I have to marry him before Charles comes for me.
11:55Once that's done, I'll be free of him.
11:56Free of this humiliation.
11:58Winter roads were hard, and I had little money.
12:00I couldn't afford a cart, so I stopped when I had to.
12:02When funds ran low, I worked in towns.
12:04Earned enough, then moved on.
12:05Spring was near, and I was getting closer to the border.
12:07One day, while wiping tables at an inn, the owner rushed in, excited.
12:11Diana, the border forces won.
12:12After they possess the prisoners, they return any day now.
12:15You'll see your fiancé soon.
12:16He paid me what I'd earned, and added a bonus.
12:20Your fiancé is a hero of Diana.
12:22Call this my wedding gift.
12:24Hire a cart, and go to him.
12:25I thanked him, hired a cart, and reached the border.
12:28The army wasn't back yet.
12:29I slipped my last coins to the guard.
12:31Sir, my fiancé is Lance Watson.
12:33When he arrives, please tell him I've rented a place east of the city, waiting.
12:36Sir, my fiancé is Lance Watson.
12:38When he arrives, please tell him I've rented a place east of the city, waiting.
12:41The guard heard this, handed the coins back, smiling apologetically.
12:45So you're Lance's fiancé?
12:46No need for this.
12:47Just put in a good word for me sometime.
12:49I was confused.
12:50Lance was just a nobody soldier.
12:52What good would my words do?
12:53Probably mistook me for someone else.
12:54But saving money wasn't bad.
12:56The waiting made me nervous.
12:58Lance and I were from the same village.
12:59And yes, he'd admired me for years.
13:02But I'd been married.
13:02I didn't know if his proposal was real or just impulse.
13:05Then I thought it through.
13:07If he'd changed his mind, I'd manage on my own.
13:09I have my hands.
13:10I won't starve.
13:11That settled, I felt better.
13:13I started sewing my wedding gown.
13:15If he wants me, good.
13:16If not, at least it's for me.
13:17When I married Charles, I never wore one.
13:20Back then, the Shaw's had nothing.
13:22Empty walls, no gown, and the wedding line was borrowed from a neighbor.
13:25No gown, and the wedding line was borrowed from a neighbor.
13:29Later, when I had money, I repaid her with two big jars.
13:32She grabbed my hand, choked up, and said,
13:35Diana, you're such a good girl.
13:37Why stay with the Shaw's?
13:38All that hardship, look at you.
13:40Pretty hardworking.
13:41You could marry a rich man and not be settling.
13:44Why cling to that bookworm, Charles?
13:47Wasting your youth.
13:47Back then, I loved Charles.
13:49I believed in our future.
13:51I thought she was out of line.
13:52I even argued with her.
13:54Ma'am, you're unfair to him.
13:56I believe in him.
13:57When he makes it, he won't let me down.
13:58She couldn't convince me.
14:00Just kept calling me foolish.
14:01Now I see.
14:01She was the one who saw clearly.
14:03The day I slipped away, I almost ran straight into Charles' sister-in-law.
14:07The day I slipped away, I nearly ran straight into Charles' sister-in-law.
14:10But my neighbor distracted her.
14:12Then sent her husband to pass the word.
14:13Go now.
14:14She told me.
14:15Diana, the Shaw's aren't good enough for you.
14:18Go.
14:18Live free.
14:19Don't let them trap you anymore.
14:21I'll handle your sister-in-law.
14:23I'll make sure they don't find out you're gone.
14:26I don't know how she held her off.
14:28But it worked.
14:29For a month, no one came looking for me.
14:32But you just had to say it.
14:33The third day, a carriage stopped outside my door.
14:35I thought Lance was back.
14:37I ran out, excited.
14:38And came face to face with someone familiar.
14:40Charles, hair disheveled, face worn.
14:41His voice was hoarse.
14:42Diana, you were so hard to find.
14:44He dismounted, strode over in a few steps, and grabbed my wrist, squeezing so hard my bones might crack.
14:49And grabbed my wrist, squeezing so hard my bones might crack.
14:53Diana, you promised me.
14:54Why did you run away?
14:56All the way to this border town.
14:57I spent half a month preparing, went to Greenhaven myself to get you, and found the house empty.
15:02Do you know how worried I was?
15:04I couldn't break free.
15:05So I stopped trying.
15:06And said coldly,
15:07Why trouble yourself for me, Lord Shaw?
15:09Our contract is destroyed.
15:10I'm no longer a Shaw.
15:11Where I go, whether I live or die, is none of your business.
15:14My cold words stung him.
15:15He got angrier.
15:16Diana, I know you're upset.
15:18But this is reckless.
15:20You agreed to come to the capital.
15:22How could you break your word?
15:24It struck me as almost funny.
15:25I dropped the act.
15:26On our wedding day.
15:27Didn't you promise me to be true to me forever?
15:29To never take another wife?
15:30Didn't you break your word?
15:31So, call it even.
15:33Didn't you break your word?
15:34So, call it even.
15:36Lord Shaw, we're done.
15:38Done?
15:38Seeing my resolve, Charles' eyes reddened.
15:41He pulled me close, almost nose to nose.
15:42We've been married over ten years.
15:44You can't just end it like that.
15:46Diana, I know you're hurt.
15:47I'm sorry.
15:48When we go back, I'll make you an equal wife.
15:50You won't be beneath Esther.
15:52Alright?
15:52I snorted.
15:53He thought I wanted more.
15:56He frowned.
15:57Diana, it's not that I won't make you equal.
15:59But Esther saved my life.
16:01Saved your life?
16:02I cut him off and scoffed.
16:03After all this, you still hide behind that lie?
16:06Charles, you're not even trying.
16:08He froze, panic flashing in his eyes.
16:11Diana, what do you mean?
16:13Diana, what do you mean?
16:14Seeing his face change, I tore through his lies, word by word.
16:18Esther told me everything.
16:19Here were no bandits.
16:20No one saved you.
16:21You fell for her at first sight, forced your way in, and destroyed her engagement.
16:25Your debt of gratitude was just an excuse for your betrayal.
16:28Charles went pale.
16:30He opened his mouth, but shame choked his words.
16:32I was done.
16:34I was about to send him away when he snapped out of it, and weakly pleaded.
16:37Diana, let me explain.
16:38Esther's jealous.
16:40She's trying to drive us apart.
16:42You know, no woman wants to share her husband.
16:45I cut him off.
16:47Too numb to feel a thing.
16:48You understand that too.
16:50That's why you stayed away ten years.
16:52Left me alone.
16:52Even had your mother pretend to be sick for ten years to trap me in the village.
16:55Right?
16:55Even had your mother pretend to be sick for ten years to trap me in the village.
16:58Right?
16:59Charles, since you care for her so much, stop chasing after me.
17:02It'll only hurt us both.
17:03I yanked my hand back, stepped away, and said coldly,
17:07The old Diana Jensen is dead.
17:09She learned the truth.
17:10The woman standing here now has nothing to do with you or the Shaw family.
17:13For what we had, I won't speak against you.
17:17Just leave.
17:18My fiancé's coming back with the army soon.
17:20I don't want him to misunderstand.
17:21Charles stiffened, his head snapping up, eyes blazing with shock and fury.
17:25Fiancé?
17:26What fiancé?
17:26Who is he?
17:28I answered calmly,
17:29Just a nobody soldier.
17:30You wouldn't know him, Lord Shaw.
17:31Now go.
17:32But Charles refused to accept it.
17:33He fumed.
17:34Diana, have you lost your mind?
17:35You'd refuse a minister for some lowly soldier?
17:38Have you lost your mind?
17:39You'd refuse a minister for some lowly soldier?
17:42He could die any day.
17:43And his pay?
17:44You'd barely afford a meal.
17:46You're not getting any younger.
17:47You want to live like that again?
17:50I glared at him and said calmly,
17:52I don't fear hardship.
17:52If I did, I'd never have married you.
17:55Lord Shaw, stop insulting my fiancé.
17:57He lacks your wealth and status, but he gives me his whole heart.
18:00Unlike you, always chasing shiny anew.
18:01Aye.
18:02Charles faltered.
18:03It took him a moment to recover.
18:05He said,
18:05Diana, you've got it wrong.
18:07I don't love the new and forget the old.
18:08All these years, even with Esther, you've always been in my heart.
18:11Words weren't enough.
18:12So he stopped.
18:13He said,
18:14Fine.
18:15When you come back with me, I'll prove it.
18:17I didn't understand, but his next words answered my question.
18:20General Quinn is an old acquaintance.
18:23I'll go see him, ask him to talk to your fiancé.
18:26He plays it right.
18:27I'll find him a nice girl and cover the bride price too.
18:31I'll find him a nice girl and cover the bride price too.
18:34I'm usually patient, but this time I snapped.
18:37Charles, have you lost your mind?
18:38He didn't say it outright, but I understood.
18:40He was going to use his power to pressure Lance.
18:42Lance is just a soldier.
18:43How could he fight a minister?
18:45I grabbed Charles' sword and held it to my throat.
18:47I said,
18:48Charles, if you go near him, I'll kill myself right now.
18:51My life may be cheap, but you're the minister of revenue.
18:53If word gets out you drove a woman to death, how would that look?
18:56He always saw me as gentle.
18:57He never thought I'd threaten to die.
19:00He panicked, froze, and pleaded.
19:02Diana, put the sword down.
19:04Let's talk.
19:05But I was done talking.
19:06There's nothing to say.
19:07If you don't want me dead, write it down.
19:08If anything happens to me or my fiancé, you'll be held responsible.
19:11Charles had spent years climbing the ranks.
19:14He'd never sign his own ruin.
19:16Charles had spent years climbing the ranks.
19:18He'd never sign his own ruin.
19:19But he kept his cool and said flatly,
19:22Fine, I'll write it.
19:23But I came in a hurry.
19:24Empty-handed.
19:25You'll need to get me paper and ink.
19:27I hadn't thought that far.
19:28I turned to go inside for paper.
19:30But the bastard struck from behind,
19:32grabbed the sword from my hand, and ordered his men,
19:35Watcher, I'm going to see General Quinn.
19:36They covered my mouth.
19:37I couldn't even curse.
19:38I was frantic when a rough, cheerful voice rang out.
19:42Minister Shaw, what brings you here?
19:44I just heard you were looking for me.
19:45Something important?
19:46The voice was unfamiliar.
19:47I didn't recognize it.
19:48Then I heard Charles.
19:49Respectful.
19:49General Quinn, what a coincidence.
19:51Nothing major, really.
19:52I just wanted to ask you to help find someone.
19:54So this was the border commander.
19:56He laughed.
19:57Find someone?
19:58Easy.
19:59He laughed.
20:00Find someone?
20:01Easy.
20:01Minister Shaw, mind if I finish something first?
20:04Charles stepped back to the door.
20:06He said,
20:06Of course.
20:07Take your time, General.
20:07But Silas dismounted, pointed at my gate, and grinned.
20:10I've got business here, too.
20:12Seeing Charles confused, he explained.
20:14I'm here to propose.
20:15Charles froze, instinctively blocking the entrance.
20:17He asked carefully.
20:19General, you and your wife are devoted.
20:20Your children roam.
20:21This isn't right.
20:23Silas heard that and burst out laughing.
20:24When he'd had his fill, he explained.
20:26You misunderstood.
20:27Not for me.
20:28For my adopted son.
20:29He's wounded.
20:29Can't move.
20:30Charles wasn't the only one stunned.
20:31I was, too.
20:32I almost thought Silas had the wrong house.
20:34Silas couldn't find the right words,
20:35so he stepped past Charles into the yard.
20:37The guards, afraid of trouble, let me go.
20:39Silas was a soldier, rough and straightforward.
20:41He noticed nothing wrong, just stared at me, and asked,
20:43Are you Diana Jensen?
20:44I nodded.
20:45Dazed.
20:46He clapped his hands.
20:47Then I'm in the right place.
20:48Lance Watson is my adopted son, your fiancé.
20:50He clapped his hands.
20:51Then I'm in the right place.
20:52Lance Watson is my adopted son, your fiancé.
20:54My mind was spinning.
20:55Lance is just a soldier.
20:57How is he General Quinn's adopted son?
20:58I scratched my head and said,
21:00General, are you sure you've got the right person?
21:01My fiancé's name is Lance, but he couldn't be your adopted son.
21:04Maybe it's a different Lance?
21:05Silas seemed less sure now, he said.
21:07My adopted son's from Greenhaven, has a mole by his left eye.
21:10Does that match your fiancé?
21:11Never mind, tell you what, I'll have him brought here.
21:14You can see for yourself.
21:15I stopped him quickly.
21:16General, no need.
21:18That sounds exactly like him.
21:20I believe you.
21:21You said he's wounded?
21:22Don't put him through that.
21:23I'll go to him.
21:24I hurried toward the door, but Charles, silent until now, grabbed me.
21:27He stepped in front of me and lied through his teeth.
21:29General Quinn, there's something we need to clear up.
21:31And lied through his teeth.
21:32General Quinn, there's something we need to clear up.
21:34Diana is my adopted sister.
21:36She never mentioned Lance to the family.
21:37This must have been done behind our backs.
21:39It doesn't count.
21:41Then, he muttered, threatening me.
21:42Keep your mouth shut.
21:43Lance is the General's adopted son now.
21:45If he finds out you're divorced, you won't marry him,
21:48and Lance's reputation will be ruined.
21:50He had me there.
21:52He was right.
21:53Lance finally has someone backing him.
21:54If I cost him that, I'd never forgive myself.
21:57I was still thinking when Silas frowned and said,
21:59But Minister Shaw, your opinion doesn't matter anymore.
22:02You must have heard.
22:03Lance charged into battle like a madman,
22:06crippled the Prince of Stonehold's forces,
22:07and brought back his head.
22:08He earned the highest merit.
22:10He refused the Emperor's reward.
22:11Used his honor to ask for Diana's hand instead.
22:13If your family objects, you'd be defying the Emperor's decree.
22:15I stood there, stunned.
22:17I never imagined Lance would fight so hard for me.
22:22I stood there, stunned.
22:32His face went pale, he muttered, in disbelief.
22:35How could this be?
22:36How?
22:36Silas looked confused.
22:38He frowned.
22:39Minister Shaw, this is good news.
22:40Why do you seem upset?
22:41Charles snapped out of it.
22:42For the sake of his career, he forced a smile.
22:45Happy?
22:46I'm happy.
22:46Silas had brought the Imperial decree.
22:48When that silk unfurled at the Shaw Manor,
22:51Silas had brought the Imperial decree.
22:53When that silk unfurled at the Shaw Manor,
22:55it was like a blinding light.
22:56The emotions it cast etched in every face.
22:58Charles knelt at the front, his back a stone rod,
23:01hands trembling as he received the decree.
23:02I stood to the side, watching him,
23:04and felt the last shred of pity slip away.
23:06Hadn't he brought this on himself?
23:08The Imperial words rang clear and stern,
23:10fixing our wedding for three months hence.
23:12The eunuch's voice cut through.
23:13His Majesty, mindful of Lance's wounds,
23:16grants you a capital mansion.
23:17The ceremony overseen by the Ministry of Rights.
23:20The words twisted the knife already in Charles' chest.
23:22I was the bride he carried home in splendor.
23:25Now the crown itself would see me wed another in splendor.
23:28Charles, for all his rage,
23:29had no choice but to swallow it whole.
23:31Charles, for all his rage,
23:32had no choice but to swallow it whole.
23:33The moment the decree was received,
23:35he seemed to age ten years,
23:36the light in his eyes dying.
23:38With the word out,
23:39he had to play the foster brother
23:40and take me to the capital to wed.
23:42The day I left the village,
23:43Esther took my hand with feigned warmth,
23:44wishing me well with pretty words.
23:46Then rushed the maids to pack
23:47my things.
23:48Her eagerness was barely contained.
23:50The whole Shaw Manor buzzed with false cheer,
23:52servants hanging red silk and happy charms,
23:54as if celebrating a grand occasion.
23:55Esther busied herself tirelessly,
23:57from picking my dowry to choosing my maids,
23:59handling it all,
24:01practically itching to see me out the door.
24:02Her smile was radiant,
24:04nothing like the pitiful woman
24:05who once hid behind Charles,
24:07all meek and helpless.
24:08Only Charles and his mother stayed cold,
24:10not a smile between them.
24:11Only Charles and his mother stayed cold,
24:13not a smile between them.
24:14Charles would sit in his study all day,
24:16papers spread out,
24:17untouched.
24:18His mother stayed in the prayer room,
24:20chanting more than ever,
24:22but the worry on her face only deepened.
24:24The gloom inside clashed with the festive facade.
24:27Servants tiptoed,
24:28afraid to cross them.
24:29When Lance had healed enough,
24:30he came to propose again in person.
24:32That day,
24:32in his indigo robe,
24:33he was still pale,
24:35but stood tall as a pine,
24:36two guards helping him through the gate.
24:38I went to meet him
24:39and saw him stop in the yard,
24:41gazing up at the room I used to live in,
24:43his eyes tender and sure.
24:44I teased him for going to such trouble.
24:46The decree was already law.
24:47Why go through this again?
24:48He looked at me,
24:49his eyes soft.
24:50Diana,
24:50the decree is his majesty's will.
24:52He looked at me,
24:53his eyes soft.
24:54Diana,
24:55the decree is his majesty's will.
24:56This proposal is my wish.
24:58How much he mattered,
24:59that I shouldn't suffer any slight.
25:00The gifts he brought were even more lavish,
25:02beyond the usual betrothal presence.
25:04There were chests of gems and furs,
25:06and a jade set his mother left behind.
25:08Lance explained she'd asked him
25:09to give it to his future bride.
25:11Then,
25:12facing Charles and his mother,
25:13he said,
25:13Asking my adoptive father to propose
25:15wasn't my choice.
25:16I was unconscious,
25:17afraid something might go wrong.
25:19He turned to me,
25:20his voice soft but clear.
25:21I was terrified,
25:22that while I slept,
25:23someone might take you from me.
25:24So the moment I woke,
25:25I begged his majesty for the decree.
25:27Charles' face darkened.
25:28He clenched his cup,
25:30knuckles white.
25:30His mother's eyes welled up.
25:31She dabbed them with her handkerchief,
25:32whether from sorrow or regret.
25:33I couldn't tell.
25:34His mother's eyes welled up.
25:35She dabbed them with her handkerchief,
25:36whether from sorrow or regret,
25:37I couldn't tell.
25:38After Lance left,
25:39she scolded Charles.
25:40At that moment,
25:41I was coming to thank her,
25:42as custom required.
25:44We'd once been family,
25:45so I kept the ritual.
25:46Just outside the door,
25:47I heard a cup shatter,
25:49the shards piercing the quiet afternoon.
25:51Then came her choked sobs,
25:53her voice thick with grief and regret.
25:54I told you,
25:56Diana's a good woman.
25:57If you don't want her,
25:58someone else will.
25:59You wouldn't listen.
25:59Now look,
26:00she is about to marry
26:01into another family.
26:03Charles' voice was hoarse,
26:04but he still pushed back.
26:05Mother,
26:05what are you saying?
26:07Esther is your daughter-in-law.
26:08His mother's voice turned even more bitter,
26:10years of resentment spilling out.
26:11Her?
26:11What kind of daughter-in-law is she?
26:13When I was sick,
26:13did she ever come see me?
26:14Ever ask how I was?
26:16When I was sick,
26:17did she ever come see me?
26:18Ever ask how I was?
26:19And you?
26:20You work late every night.
26:21Did she ever sit with you?
26:23Bring you a midnight meal?
26:24At that,
26:25she broke down completely.
26:26Charles,
26:27think back in the village
26:29when you studied all night,
26:30who stayed up with you?
26:32Who made sure you never went hungry?
26:34In the dead of winter,
26:35Diana's hands were raw from cold,
26:37yet she still made you warm soup.
26:39Never mind,
26:40Diana.
26:41Even I think you abandoned her.
26:43Her words must have cut deep.
26:45A heavy thud came as his fist
26:46hit the pillar.
26:47So hard,
26:48I felt it from outside.
26:50His voice cracked,
26:51raw with pain.
26:52You think I don't know,
26:53Mother?
26:54Esther is different from Diana.
26:57Esther is different from Diana.
27:00But what can I do now?
27:01Diana and Lance
27:02have the Emperor's decree.
27:03Even if I wanted to fight,
27:05I can't.
27:05Mother,
27:06let's just live with it.
27:07Whatever Esther is,
27:08she gave the shawls an heir.
27:09We'll both have to make do.
27:11I don't want more trouble.
27:12I started to slip away,
27:13but heard quick steps behind me.
27:15Before I could react,
27:16Esther rushed past,
27:17stormed into the room,
27:18and slammed the door
27:19against the wall.
27:21Her face was twisted with rage.
27:22She jabbed a finger at Charles.
27:23Charles, make do, huh?
27:25Now you two see how good Diana was?
27:27And I'm just what you settle for?
27:28Let me tell you,
27:29too late.
27:30Once Diana's married,
27:30this house still answers to me.
27:32Charles tried to speak,
27:33but she cut him off,
27:34voice shrill.
27:35Don't play the lord of the manor with me.
27:37I have the goods on you
27:37for dumping your wife.
27:39If you want peace,
27:40you'll serve me like a dog.
27:41Don't forget,
27:42I remember every ugly thing you've done.
27:44Then,
27:45she wheeled on his mother,
27:46eyes sharp as knives.
27:47And you,
27:48you old hag.
27:49This was your idea.
27:50You begged to trap Diana here
27:52by faking sickness.
27:54Now she's gone.
27:54What's with the tears?
27:57You begged to trap Diana here
27:58by faking sickness.
27:59Now she's gone.
28:01What's with the tears?
28:02This is your karma.
28:03If you want your son safe,
28:04keep your mouth shut.
28:05Don't lecture me about filial piety.
28:07From now on,
28:07I run this house.
28:08Through the crack in the door,
28:09I watched them squirm.
28:11Charles clenched his fists,
28:12but no words came.
28:14His mother clutched her chest,
28:15pale lips,
28:16trembling in silence.
28:17I felt nothing.
28:19Just cold,
28:19quiet peace.
28:20Guess it's true.
28:21What goes around,
28:22comes around.
28:22Charles betrayed me for Esther,
28:24and now she's the one
28:24pulling his strings.
28:25His mother aided him,
28:26and now she reaps
28:27what she sowed.
28:28Their future,
28:28I thought,
28:29would be anything but easy.
28:30Esther's cruelty,
28:31Charles's weakness,
28:32and his mother's regret
28:33trapped them
28:34in an endless drama together.
28:36Poetic justice,
28:37I suppose.
28:38I turned and walked away,
28:39my skirt brushing
28:39the fallen leaves,
28:40silent,
28:41unnoticed.
28:41Sunlight fell through the eaves,
28:43spilling dappled shadows
28:44at my feet.
28:44At that moment,
28:45a weight lifted
28:46from my shoulders.
28:48A weight lifted
28:49from my shoulders.
28:50Three days later,
28:51I finally left the Shaw Manor.
28:53The sky was clear.
28:54Lance himself came for me
28:55on a fine horse.
28:56The grand sedan chair
28:56waited at the gate,
28:57draped in red silk,
28:58festive and bright.
28:59Neighbors gathered round,
29:00whispering,
29:01pointing.
29:02I wore my new gown,
29:03a real wedding dress,
29:04crimson brocade,
29:05gold thread stitching,
29:06lotus blooms,
29:07a veil embroidered
29:07with mandarin ducks.
29:08Maids helped me
29:09through the gate.
29:10Before stepping in,
29:11I glanced back.
29:12Charles stood in the shadows,
29:13his face hidden.
29:15Esther stood in the light,
29:16a fake smile plastered on,
29:17her eyes cold as ice.
29:18His mother wasn't there.
29:19Sick again,
29:20they said.
29:20I smiled and stepped inside,
29:22marrying into the house
29:23the emperor gave Lance.
29:24It wasn't large,
29:26but warm and well kept.
29:27The courtyard filled
29:28with crabapple trees in bloom,
29:30pink and white petals
29:31falling like snow.
29:31It was breathtaking.
29:32Lance spent all his reward
29:33on my bride price.
29:35So money was tight.
29:36The ceremony wasn't lavish,
29:37but nothing was missing.
29:38The bridal finery,
29:39the grand palanquin,
29:41the red dowry procession.
29:42Few guests attended,
29:43but everyone came with true hearts.
29:45Few guests attended,
29:45but everyone came with true hearts.
29:47General Quinn was there too,
29:48drinking and laughing.
29:49For that,
29:50Lance felt guilty.
29:51On our wedding night,
29:51he held my hand and said,
29:53Diana,
29:53I'm sorry,
29:54it's not more,
29:54I'll work harder,
29:56give you a better life.
29:57But I was content.
29:58This time,
29:59unlike my wedding to Charles,
30:00I had a gown.
30:01Back then,
30:01a small sedan slipped me
30:02through the side door.
30:03Barely any guests.
30:04The whole affair a hollow joke.
30:05Now,
30:06I had the respect I deserved.
30:08The second year,
30:09I followed Lance
30:10to the border garrison.
30:10The day we left,
30:11Charles showed up,
30:12standing apart from the crowd,
30:13as if he wanted to speak.
30:15I didn't pause.
30:16I stepped into the carriage.
30:17The curtain fell,
30:18shutting out the capital's splendor
30:19and the past with it.
30:21Life at the border was simple,
30:22but full.
30:22Lance tended his duties.
30:24I kept house,
30:25mended clothes for the soldiers,
30:26taught the local children
30:27their letters.
30:28Little by little,
30:29I let the Shaws go,
30:30just a polite gift at holidays,
30:32expecting nothing back.
30:33Still,
30:33rumors reached us now and then.
30:35They said the Shaw manor was in chaos,
30:36Charles and his mother
30:37under Esther's thumb.
30:38If she said east,
30:39no one dared go west.
30:40Charles handed over his entire salary,
30:42had to ask permission
30:43just to buy a book.
30:44Charles handed over his entire salary,
30:45had to ask permission
30:46just to buy a book.
30:47His mother's rations were cut,
30:49her room often without coal.
30:51Charles withered,
30:52his work no longer careful.
30:54After a few mistakes,
30:55censors called for his head.
30:56Once,
30:57the treasury accounts were off.
30:58Once,
30:58he miswrote a decree.
30:59Once,
31:00he blanked out at court,
31:01failed to answer the emperor.
31:02Nothing fatal,
31:03but he'd go no further.
31:04His career was over.
31:06His mother's fake illness became real,
31:07bedridden for good.
31:08A sad end,
31:09she wrote,
31:10wanting to see me.
31:11I said the journey was too long.
31:13Some mistakes,
31:13once made,
31:14can't be unmade.
31:15Hearing all this,
31:16I felt nothing.
31:17The sun was good that day.
31:19I sat under the crabapple tree,
31:20quietly making Lance new boots.
31:22He trained hard,
31:23wore out seven or eight pairs a month.
31:25His feet always blistered.
31:26It broke my heart.
31:27I made the soles thick,
31:28the top sturdy,
31:30every stitch tight and true.
31:32Lost in my work,
31:32hands touched my shoulders.
31:34Lance was home.
31:35He knelt to see what I was doing,
31:37and scolded me softly.
31:38Diana,
31:39the doctor says,
31:40twins are tough.
31:41Don't tire yourself from me.
31:42Let the servants do it.
31:44I looked up into his worried eyes,
31:46so full of care and love.
31:48Sunlight through the leaves
31:50lit his strong face.
31:51I smiled and took his hand,
31:53warm,
31:54calloused from the sword.
31:55I'm your wife.
31:56If I don't care,
31:57who will?
31:58Just then,
31:59the baby kicked,
32:00as if in answer.
32:01His eyes lit up.
32:03He pressed his palm to my belly.
32:05Feeling that small,
32:06quick life,
32:07a breeze stirred,
32:08crabapple blossoms falling,
32:09on our clasped hands,
32:10on the unfinished boots,
32:12on this quiet courtyard.
32:14Drills rang from the barracks.
32:15Steady,
32:16strong.
32:17My heart was full.
32:18No room left for the past.
32:20Smoke and shadows gone.
32:21The man before me,
32:22was the one I loved.
32:23That was enough.
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