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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.
01:00Diana, 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.
01:12After watching him leave, I went home.
01:13The house, usually dark, was lit up. I thought Mother was waiting for me. Opening the gate, I chied her.
01:18Mother, it's so late. You should rest. Before I finished, the door slid open. A tall figure stood silhouetted by
01:23candlelight. 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. He opened
01:33his arms, waiting for me to run into them and tell him how much I'd missed him. But I didn't.
01:37I set down my basket and said calmly, you haven't eaten, have you? Let me make you something.
01:41Charles frowned slightly, awkwardly lowering his arms, forcing a light tone.
01:44What'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. No one wants
01:53to be apart from her husband so long and so far away. But after learning everything, I stopped hoping. I
01:57made peace with it.
01:58Instead of fighting, better to part on good terms and leave quietly. I didn't answer. Instead, I changed the subject.
02:04Go talk with Mother. I'll call you when dinner's ready. I said nothing more and went to the kitchen. But
02:09Charles followed. He pulled me into his arms and asked cautiously.
02:11Diana, what's wrong? Did you hear some rumor? I pushed him away calmly and smiled. This poor village rarely sees
02:19outsiders. What could I hear? Don't overthink it. Charles sighed with relief. He thought I was just moody and pulled
02:25me back in.
02:26Diana, I came back to take you all to the capital. 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. Charles led me
02:36inside. I was surprised. Mother wasn't alone.
02:39There was a richly dressed woman and two children who looked just like Charles. Mother looked down guiltily, unable to
02:44meet my eyes.
02:45But the woman walked up boldly and extended her hand. You're Diana Jensen, right? I'm Esther Carter, Charles' adopted sister
02:51and his wife.
02:51When I didn't respond, she pushed the children forward. These are our son and daughter. Come on, call her Diana.
02:56Seeing my cold expression, Charles quickly stopped her. He took my hand guiltily.
03:00Diana, let me explain. He took my hand guiltily.
03:03Diana, let me explain. That year, bandits attacked me on my way to the capital exams.
03:06If 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. I wanted to give her a home. It was
03:15my way of repaying her.
03:16If it hurts, you can hit me, curse me. Just, when we get to the capital, I hope you two
03:21can get along.
03:21He grabbed my hand to make me him. I pulled it back and smiled calmly.
03:25Going to the capital is a good thing. It doesn't hurt. Mother's been unwell for years.
03:29Maybe the capital's doctors can cure her. Charles was overjoyed, barely able to contain himself.
03:33Really? You're not mad at me? My 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. Charles 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. My 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
04:02waste.
04:03If they sit empty, we'd still owe taxes. It'd be a waste. Take everyone back for the holiday.
04:07Once I've settled things here, I'll join you after the thaw.
04:10Charles relaxed a little. He knew what this house and land meant to me.
04:13When I first married in, the Shaw's 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.
04:38Don't worry, my lord. I'll come find you once it's done. I won't delay.
04:41For a moment, Charles hesitated. Esther caught it and tugged his sleeve, annoyed. She warned him.
04:47My lord, don't go soft. The censorate has eyes on you.
04:49If 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
05:13shut.
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.
05:26But I never complained.
05:27I cared for mother and 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.
05:35I finally understood why they say scholars are the most heartless.
05:38I fought back the sting in my eyes, refusing to let the tears fall.
05:41Then, steadying myself, I said,
05:42So 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.
05:47Your 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?
06:03I answered calmly.
06:05The marriage contract.
06:05Ours.
06:06I answered calmly.
06:07The marriage contract.
06:08Ours.
06:09We married in a poor village.
06:10No formalities.
06:11A written contract.
06:12A cup of wine.
06:13And it was done.
06:13We 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.
06:20I 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,
06:29if I destroy the one thing you treasure,
06:31how could you bear it?
06:32Maybe.
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.
06:42If he could treat my devotion like dirt,
06:44why should I cling to a piece of paper?
06:46But I knew.
06:47With his cautious nature, he wouldn't just let me marry another man.
06:49But I knew.
06:50With his suspicious nature, he wouldn't just let me marry another man.
06:53So, I made up a reason.
06:54My lord.
06:55You know this contract is my life.
06:57But for your future, I have to let it go.
06:59Once you're in the capital, you can marry me again.
07:01And give me a new one.
07:02That'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.
07:08She'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.
07:20I'll be good to you.
07:21Wait for me.
07:22I'll prepare the finest bride price and marry you again properly.
07:25The way he looked, you'd almost think he meant it.
07:27But I didn't believe him.
07:28I 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.
07:37The flames turned that farce of a marriage to ash.
07:39And with it, my decade-long obsession.
07:41For the first time, I felt a flicker of hope, wondering at the freedom that could be mine.
07:44After Charles took Esther to rest, Mother stalked me.
07:47She 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?
07:54Her hair was completely white.
07:55Seeing her face wet with tears, I couldn't be cruel.
07:58I helped her up and said calmly,
07:59Mother, you did it because you love your son.
08:01I don't blame you.
08:02Sure, your sickness was faked, but you've always had your aches and pains.
08:05When you get to the Capitol, listen to the doctors.
08:07Take care of yourself.
08:08Hearing that, she broke down completely.
08:10Diana, 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.
08:21I'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.
08:29She's a mother.
08:30Words are sweet, but blood wins.
08:32If 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, Mother, it's fine.
08:40Whoever Charles marries becomes your daughter-in-law.
08:42You owe me nothing.
08:43As I left her room, Esther blocked my path in the yard.
08:46Diana, don't take Charles' words to heart.
08:49I never saved him.
08:50I 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.
08:57Esther wasn't his savior at all.
08:59The truth was, Charles fell for her at first sight,
09:01used 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.
09:07He knows I'm kind, that I always repay a debt.
09:10So he and Mother cooked up this story to force my hand,
09:13to make me accept it.
09:14Seeing me stunned, Esther thought her words had hit home.
09:16She smirked.
09:17So when he talks about marrying you in style, it'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?
09:26Do 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.
09:36If I drove you away, he'd blame me and regret it forever.
09:39I couldn't do that to him.
09:40I'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.
09:48That's why he never touched you.
09:49If you try anything, don't expect mercy.
09:52But if you behave, I'll make sure you're fed and clothed.
09:55I had no energy for her games.
09:57I nodded just to end it.
09:58The day they left, I saw them to the village edge.
10:00I 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.
10:06Diana, I gave you this.
10:08You keep it.
10:09And gave it back.
10:10Diana, I gave you this.
10:11You keep it.
10:12I shook my head and fixed it back on Esther.
10:15This pin is Mother's heirloom.
10:17Everyone knows it's for the shod daughter-in-law.
10:18If I keep it, and someone investigates, it'll just raise questions.
10:22Safer with Esther.
10:23Esther blocked Mother, and said softly,
10:25Mother, Diana's right.
10:26When we're together again, I'll give it back to her.
10:28Mother wasn't happy.
10:29But since we both agreed, she just sighed and whispered to me.
10:32Diana, don't worry.
10:33What I gave you is yours.
10:36You're my only true daughter-in-law.
10:38Once you're in the capital, I'll get it back for you.
10:41I nodded, then pointed at the pouch on Charles' belt.
10:44Charles, it is all I have left from my grandma.
10:46She made it right before she passed.
10:48Can I have it back?
10:49Charles frowned slightly and said quietly,
10:51Diana, 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.
10:58I shook my head.
10:59Better be cautious.
11:00Can't leave any loose ends.
11:01Charles couldn't convince me.
11:02He sighed.
11:03Fine.
11:04After I marry you again, we'll change it back.
11:06But keep the pouch with me.
11:07It was your gift, a token of our love.
11:10I didn't understand.
11:11He used to hate this pouch, said men wearing pouches was embarrassing.
11:14Now that I wanted to grant his old wish, why was he refusing?
11:17Charles, it's almost New Year's Eve.
11:19I'll be lonely here alone.
11:20Keeping the pouch gives me something to hold onto.
11:22If 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.
11:28Just as they were leaving, he turned back.
11:30Hidden by his wide sleeve, he squeezed my hand tight.
11:33He said,
11:34Wait for me.
11:34I'll come for you myself after the thaw.
11:36There's one last thing I need to tell you then.
11:39I didn't ask.
11:39I just nodded.
11:40Okay.
11:41After watching them leave, I went back inside and grabbed my bag from the top cabinet.
11:45And grabbed my bag from the top cabinet.
11:47I left Charles' money on the table.
11:49And headed north without looking back.
11:51That's where the man I'll marry is waiting.
11:52I have to marry him before Charles comes for me.
11:54Once that's done, I'll be free of him.
11:56Free of this humiliation.
11:57Winter roads were hard.
11:59And I had little money.
12:00I couldn't afford a cart.
12:01So I stopped when I had to.
12:02When funds ran low, I worked in towns.
12:03Earned enough, then moved on.
12:04Spring was near, and I was getting closer to the border.
12:07One day, while wiping tables at an inn, the owner rushed in, excited.
12:10Diana, the border forces won.
12:12After they possess the prisoners, they will return any day now.
12:14You'll see your fiancé soon.
12:16He paid me what I'd earned.
12:18And added a bonus.
12:19Your fiancé is a hero of Dinah.
12:21Call this my wedding gift.
12:23Hire a cart and go to him.
12:24I thanked him, hired a cart, and reached the border.
12:27The army wasn't back yet.
12:28I slipped my last coins to the guard.
12:30Sir, my fiancé is Lance Watson.
12:33When he arrives, please tell him I've rented a place east of the city, waiting.
12:35Sir, my fiancé is Lance Watson.
12:37When he arrives, please tell him I've rented a place east of the city, waiting.
12:40The guard heard this.
12:41Handed the coins back.
12:43Smiling apologetically.
12:44So you're Lance's fiancé?
12:46No need for this.
12:47Just put in a good word for me sometime.
12:48I was confused.
12:49Lance was just a nobody soldier.
12:51What good would my words do?
12:52Probably mistook me for someone else.
12:53But saving money wasn't bad.
12:55The waiting made me nervous.
12:57Lance and I were from the same village.
12:59And yes, he'd admired me for years.
13:01But I'd been married.
13:02I didn't know if his proposal was real or just impulse.
13:05Then I thought it through.
13:06If he'd changed his mind, I'd manage on my own.
13:08I have my hands.
13:09I won't starve.
13:11That settled.
13:11I felt better.
13:12I started sewing my wedding gown.
13:14If he wants me, good.
13:15If not, at least it's for me.
13:17When I married Charles, I never wore one.
13:19Back then, the Shaw's had nothing.
13:21Empty walls, no gown, and the wedding line was borrowed from a neighbor.
13:25No gown, and the wedding line was borrowed from a neighbor.
13:28Later, when I had money, I repaid her with two big jars.
13:31She grabbed my hand, choked up, and said,
13:34Diana, you're such a good girl.
13:36Why stay with the Shaw's?
13:37All that hardship, look at you.
13:39Pretty hardworking.
13:41You could marry a rich man and not be settling.
13:43Why cling to that bookworm, Charles?
13:46Wasting your youth.
13:47Back then, I loved Charles.
13:49I believed in our future.
13:50I thought she was out of line.
13:52I even argued with her.
13:53Ma'am, you're unfair to him.
13:55I believe in him.
13:56When he makes it, he won't let me down.
13:58She couldn't convince me.
13:59Just kept calling me foolish.
14:00Now I see.
14:01She was the one who saw clearly.
14:02The day I slipped away, I almost ran straight into Charles' sister-in-law.
14:06The day I slipped away, I nearly ran straight into Charles' sister-in-law, but my neighbor
14:10distracted her, then sent her husband to pass the word.
14:13Go now, she told me.
14:14Diana, the shawls aren't good enough for you.
14:17Go.
14:17Live free.
14:18Don't let them trap you anymore.
14:20I'll handle your sister-in-law.
14:22I'll make sure they don't find out you're gone.
14:25I don't know how she held her off, but it worked.
14:29For a month, no one came looking for me, but you just had to say it.
14:32The third day, a carriage stopped outside my door.
14:34I thought Lance was back.
14:36I ran out, excited, and came face-to-face with someone familiar.
14:39Charles, hair disheveled, face-worn.
14:41His voice was hoarse.
14:42Diana, you were so hard to find.
14:43He dismounted, strode over in a few steps, and grabbed my wrist, squeezing so hard my bones might crack.
14:48And grabbed my wrist, squeezing so hard my bones might crack.
14:51Diana, you promised me.
14:53Why did you run away, all 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.
15:01Do you know how worried I was?
15:03I couldn't break free, so I stopped trying, and said coldly,
15:06Why trouble yourself for me, Lord Shaw?
15:08Our contract is destroyed.
15:09I'm no longer a shaw.
15:10Where I go, whether I live or die, is none of your business.
15:13My cold words stung him.
15:14He got angrier.
15:15Diana, I know you're upset, but this is reckless.
15:19You agreed to come to the capital.
15:21How could you break your word?
15:23It struck me as almost funny.
15:24I dropped the act.
15:25On our wedding day, didn't you promise me to be true to me forever?
15:28To never take another wife?
15:29Didn't you break your word?
15:30So, call it even.
15:32Didn't you break your word?
15:33So, call it even.
15:35Lord Shaw, we're done.
15:37Done?
15:37Seeing my resolve, Charles' eyes reddened.
15:40He pulled me close, almost nose to nose.
15:42We've been married over ten years.
15:43You can't just end it like that.
15:45Diana, I know you're hurt.
15:46I'm sorry.
15:47When we go back, I'll make you an equal wife.
15:49You won't be beneath Esther.
15:51Alright?
15:51I snorted.
15:52He thought I wanted more.
15:55He frowned.
15:56Diana, it's not that I won't make you equal, but Esther saved my life.
16:00Saved your life?
16:01I cut him off and scoffed.
16:03After all this, you still hide behind that lie?
16:05Charles, you're not even trying.
16:07He froze, panic flashing in his eyes.
16:10Diana, what do you mean?
16:12Diana, what do you mean?
16:13Seeing his face change, I tore through his lies, word by word.
16:17Esther told me everything.
16:18Here were no bandits.
16:19No one saved you.
16:20You fell for her at first sight, forced your way in, and destroyed her engagement.
16:24Your debt of gratitude was just an excuse for your betrayal.
16:27Charles went pale.
16:29He opened his mouth, but shame choked his words.
16:32I was done.
16:33I was about to send him away when he snapped out of it.
16:35And weakly pleaded.
16:36Diana, let me explain.
16:37Esther's jealous.
16:39She's trying to drive us apart.
16:41You know, no woman wants to share her husband.
16:45I cut him off.
16:46Too numb to feel a thing.
16:47You understand that too.
16:49That's why you stayed away ten years.
16:51Left me alone.
16:51Even had your mother pretend to be sick for ten years to trap me in the village.
16:54Right?
16:54Even had your mother pretend to be sick for ten years to trap me in the village.
16:57Right?
16:58Charles, since you care for her so much, stop chasing after me.
17:01It'll only hurt us both.
17:02I yanked my hand back, stepped away, and said coldly,
17:06The old Diana Jensen is dead.
17:08She learned the truth.
17:09The woman standing here now has nothing to do with you or the Shaw family.
17:12For what we had, I won't speak against you.
17:16Just leave.
17:17My fiancé's coming back with the army soon.
17:19I don't want him to misunderstand.
17:20Charles stiffened, his head snapping up, eyes blazing with shock and fury.
17:24Fiancé?
17:24What fiancé?
17:25Who is he?
17:26I answered calmly.
17:28Just a nobody soldier.
17:29You wouldn't know him, Lord Shaw.
17:30Now go.
17:31But Charles refused to accept it.
17:32He fumed.
17:33Diana, have you lost your mind?
17:34You'd refuse a minister for some lowly soldier?
17:37Have you lost your mind?
17:38You'd refuse a minister for some lowly soldier?
17:41He could die any day.
17:42In his pay, you'd barely afford a meal.
17:45You're not getting any younger.
17:46You want to live like that again?
17:48I glared at him and said calmly,
17:50I don't fear hardship.
17:51If I did, I'd never have married you.
17:54Lord Shaw, stop insulting my fiancé.
17:56He lacks your wealth and status, but he gives me his whole heart.
17:59Unlike you, always chasing shiny anew.
18:00Aye.
18:01Charles faltered.
18:02It took him a moment to recover.
18:03He said,
18:04Diana, you've got it wrong.
18:05I don't love the new and forget the old.
18:07All these years, even with Esther, you've always been in my heart.
18:10Words weren't enough.
18:11So he stopped.
18:12He said,
18:13Fine, when you come back with me, I'll prove it.
18:16I didn't understand, but his next words answered my question.
18:19General Quinn is an old acquaintance.
18:22I'll go see him, ask him to talk to your fiancé.
18:25He plays it right.
18:26I'll find him a nice girl and cover the bride price, too.
18:29I'll find him a nice girl and cover the bride price, too.
18:33I'm usually patient, but this time I snapped.
18:36Charles, have you lost your mind?
18:37He didn't say it outright, but I understood.
18:39He was going to use his power to pressure Lance.
18:41Lance is just a soldier.
18:42How could he fight a minister?
18:43I grabbed Charles' sword and held it to my throat.
18:46I said,
18:47Charles, if you go near him, I'll kill myself right now.
18:49My life may be cheap, but you're the minister of revenue.
18:52If word gets out, you drove a woman to death.
18:54How would that look?
18:55He always saw me as gentle.
18:56He never thought I'd threaten to die.
18:58He panicked, froze, and pleaded.
19:01Diana, put the sword down.
19:03Let's talk.
19:04But I was done talking.
19:05There's nothing to say.
19:05If you don't want me dead, write it down.
19:07If anything happens to me or my fiancé, you'll be held responsible.
19:11Charles had spent years climbing the ranks.
19:13He'd never sign his own ruin.
19:15Charles had spent years climbing the ranks.
19:17He'd never sign his own ruin.
19:18But he kept his cool and said flatly,
19:21Fine, I'll write it.
19:22But I came in a hurry.
19:23Empty-handed.
19:23You'll need to get me paper and ink.
19:26I hadn't thought that far.
19:27I turned to go inside for paper.
19:29But the bastard struck from behind, grabbed the sword from my hand, and ordered his men.
19:33Watcher, I'm going to see General Quinn.
19:35They covered my mouth.
19:36I couldn't even curse.
19:38I was frantic when a rough, cheerful voice rang out.
19:41Minister Shah, what brings you here?
19:42I just heard you were looking for me.
19:44Something important?
19:44The voice was unfamiliar.
19:45I didn't recognize it.
19:46Then I heard Charles.
19:47Respectful.
19:48General Quinn, what a coincidence.
19:49Nothing major, really.
19:50I just wanted to ask you to help find someone.
19:53So, this was the border commander.
19:54He laughed.
19:56Find someone?
19:57Easy.
19:57He laughed.
19:59Find someone?
19:59Easy.
20:00Minister Shah, mind if I finish something first?
20:03Charles stepped back to the door.
20:04He said,
20:05Of course.
20:05Take your time, General.
20:06But Silas dismounted, pointed at my gate, and grinned.
20:09I've got business here, too.
20:10Seeing Charles confused, he explained,
20:13I'm here to propose.
20:14Charles froze, instinctively blocking the entrance.
20:16He asked carefully,
20:17General, you and your wife are devoted, your children roam.
20:20This isn't right.
20:21Silas heard that and burst out laughing.
20:23When he'd had his fill, he explained,
20:24You misunderstood.
20:25Not for me.
20:26For my adopted son.
20:27He's wounded.
20:28Can't move.
20:29Charles wasn't the only one stunned.
20:30I was, too.
20:30I almost thought Silas had the wrong house.
20:32Silas couldn't find the right words,
20:34so he stepped past Charles into the yard.
20:36The guards, afraid of trouble, let me go.
20:38Silas was a soldier, rough and straightforward.
20:40He noticed nothing wrong, just stared at me, and asked,
20:42Are you Diana Jensen?
20:43I nodded, dazed.
20:45He clapped his hands.
20:46Then I'm in the right place.
20:47Lance Watson is my adopted son, your fiancée.
20:49He clapped his hands.
20:50Then I'm in the right place.
20:51Lance Watson is my adopted son, your fiancée.
20:53My mind was spinning.
20:54Lance is just a soldier.
20:55How is he General Quinn's adopted son?
20:57I scratched my head and said,
20:58General, are you sure you've got the right person?
20:59My fiancée's name is Lance, but he couldn't be your adopted son.
21:02Maybe it's a different Lance?
21:04Silas seemed less sure now, he said.
21:05My adopted son's from Greenhaven, has a mole by his left eye.
21:08Does that match your fiancée?
21:10Never mind, tell you what.
21:11I'll have him brought here.
21:12You can see for yourself.
21:14I stopped him quickly.
21:15General, no need.
21:16That sounds exactly like him.
21:18I believe you.
21:19You said he's wounded?
21:20Don't put him through that.
21:22I'll go to him.
21:22I hurried toward the door, but Charles, silent until now, grabbed me.
21:26He stepped in front of me and lied through his teeth.
21:28General Quinn, there's something we need to clear up.
21:30And lied through his teeth.
21:31General Quinn, there's something we need to clear up.
21:33Diana is my adopted sister.
21:34She never mentioned Lance to the family.
21:36This must have been done behind our backs.
21:38It doesn't count.
21:39Then, he muttered, threatening me.
21:41Keep your mouth shut.
21:42Lance is the General's adopted son now.
21:44If he finds out you're divorced, you won't marry him,
21:47and Lance's reputation will be ruined.
21:49He had me there.
21:50He was right.
21:51Lance finally has someone backing him.
21:53If I cost him that, I'd never forgive myself.
21:55I was still thinking when Silas frowned and said,
21:58But Minister Shaw, your opinion doesn't matter anymore.
22:00You must have heard.
22:02Lance charged into battle like a madman,
22:04crippled the Prince of Stonehold's forces,
22:05and brought back his head.
22:07He earned the highest merit.
22:08He refused the Emperor's reward,
22:10used his honor to ask for Diana's hand instead.
22:12If your family objects, you'd be defying the Emperor's decree.
22:14I stood there, stunned.
22:15I never imagined Lance would fight so hard for me.
22:17I stood there, stunned.
22:18I never imagined Lance would fight so hard for me.
22:21Or, trade his honor for our vows.
22:23In that moment, all my doubts vanished.
22:26Tears welled up.
22:27But this time, from joy, from gratitude,
22:30Charles looked thunderstruck.
22:31His face went pale, he muttered, in disbelief.
22:33How could this be?
22:34How?
22:35Silas looked confused.
22:36He frowned.
22:37Minister Shaw, this is good news.
22:39Why do you seem upset?
22:40Charles snapped out of it.
22:41For the sake of his career, he forced a smile.
22:44Happy?
22:44I'm happy.
22:45Silas had brought the Imperial decree.
22:47When that silk unfurled at the Shaw Manor,
22:49Silas had brought the Imperial decree.
22:51When that silk unfurled at the Shaw Manor,
22:53it was like a blinding light.
22:55The emotions it cast etched in every face.
22:57Charles knelt at the front, his back a stone rod,
22:59hands trembling as he received the decree.
23:01I stood to the side, watching him,
23:02and felt the last shred of pity slip away.
23:05Hadn't he brought this on himself?
23:06The Imperial words rang clear and stern,
23:08fixing our wedding for three months hence.
23:10The eunuch's voice cut through.
23:12His Majesty, mindful of Lance's wounds,
23:14grants you a capital mansion,
23:16a ceremony overseen by the Ministry of Rights.
23:18The words twisted the knife already in Charles' chest.
23:21I was the bride he carried home in splendor.
23:23Now the crown itself would see me wed another in splendor.
23:26Charles, for all his rage,
23:28had no choice but to swallow it whole.
23:29Charles, for all his rage,
23:30had no choice but to swallow it whole.
23:32The moment the decree was received,
23:33he seemed to age ten years,
23:35the light in his eyes dying.
23:36With the word out,
23:37he had to play the foster brother
23:38and take me to the capital to wed.
23:40The day I left the village,
23:41Esther took my hand with feigned warmth,
23:43wishing me well with pretty words,
23:44then rushed the maids to pack my things.
23:47Her eagerness was barely contained.
23:48The whole Shaw Manor buzzed with false cheer,
23:50servants hanging red silk and happy charms,
23:52as if celebrating a grand occasion.
23:54Esther busied herself tirelessly,
23:55from picking my dowry to choosing my maids,
23:58handling it all,
23:59practically itching to see me out the door.
24:01Her smile was radiant,
24:03nothing like the pitiful woman
24:04who once hid behind Charles,
24:05all meek and helpless.
24:06Only Charles and his mother stayed cold,
24:08not a smile between them.
24:09Only Charles and his mother stayed cold,
24:11not a smile between them.
24:13Charles would sit in his study all day,
24:14papers spread out,
24:15untouched.
24:16His mother stayed in the prayer room,
24:18chanting more than ever,
24:20but the worry on her face only deepened.
24:22The gloom inside clashed with the festive facade.
24:25Servants tiptoed,
24:26afraid to cross them.
24:27When Lance had healed enough,
24:28he came to propose again in person.
24:30That day,
24:31in his indigo robe,
24:32he was still pale,
24:33but stood tall as a pine,
24:34two guards helping him through the gate.
24:37I went to meet him and saw him stop in the yard,
24:39gazing up at the room I used to live in,
24:41his eyes tender and sure.
24:43I teased him for going to such trouble.
24:44The decree was already law.
24:45Why go through this again?
24:46He looked at me,
24:47his eyes soft.
24:48Diana,
24:49the decree is his majesty's will.
24:50He looked at me,
24:51his eyes soft.
24:52Diana,
24:53the decree is his majesty's will.
24:54This proposal is my wish.
24:56How much he mattered,
24:57that I shouldn't suffer any slight.
24:59The gifts he brought were even more lavish,
25:01beyond the usual betrothal presents.
25:02There were chests of gems and furs,
25:04and a jade set his mother left behind.
25:06Lance explained she'd asked him to give it to his future bride.
25:09Then,
25:10facing Charles and his mother,
25:11he said,
25:11Asking my adoptive father to propose wasn't my choice.
25:14I was unconscious,
25:15afraid something might go wrong.
25:17He turned to me,
25:18his voice soft but clear.
25:19I was terrified,
25:20that while I slept,
25:21someone might take you from me.
25:22So the moment I woke,
25:23I begged his majesty for the decree.
25:25Charles' face darkened.
25:26He clenched his cup,
25:28knuckles white.
25:28His mother's eyes welled up.
25:29She dabbed them with her handkerchief,
25:31whether from sorrow or regret.
25:32I couldn't tell.
25:32His mother's eyes welled up.
25:33She dabbed them with her handkerchief,
25:34whether from sorrow or regret.
25:36I couldn't tell.
25:36After Lance left,
25:37she scolded Charles.
25:38At that moment,
25:39I was coming to thank her,
25:40as custom required.
25:42We'd once been family,
25:43so I kept the ritual.
25:44Just outside the door,
25:45I heard a cup shatter.
25:47The shards piercing the quiet afternoon.
25:49Then came her choked sobs,
25:51her voice thick with grief and regret.
25:53I told you,
25:54Diana's a good woman.
25:55If you don't want her,
25:56someone else will.
25:57You wouldn't listen.
25:58Now look,
25:58she is about to marry
25:59into another family.
26:01Charles' voice was hoarse,
26:02but he still pushed back.
26:03Mother,
26:04what are you saying?
26:05Esther is your daughter-in-law.
26:06His mother's voice turned even more bitter,
26:08years of resentment spilling out.
26:09Her?
26:10What kind of daughter-in-law is she?
26:11When I was sick,
26:12did she ever come see me?
26:13Ever ask how I was?
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