Macy Chase entra en la familia Wynn desde muy joven y, con el paso del tiempo, se convierte en el pilar que sostiene a todos en medio de crisis, traiciones y luchas políticas. Entre sacrificios y lealtad, su vínculo con la familia crece, especialmente con Jonathan Wynn, con quien el destino la une en matrimonio. Pero en un mundo lleno de intrigas y desafíos, ¿podrá su amor resistirlo todo? Una emotiva historia de amor dulce, familia y superación en tiempos difíciles.
#romancehistórico #dramafamiliar #amordulce #historiasuperación #intrigapalaciega #amorverdadero #familia
#romancehistórico #dramafamiliar #amordulce #historiasuperación #intrigapalaciega #amorverdadero #familia
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00:01When I was 10 years old, my family had gone days without food.
00:03It seemed we were all about to starve.
00:04Father went to town to find a job.
00:05I took four tails of silver from the child broker and sold myself.
00:08On the day I left home, the snow was thick and heavy.
00:10Mother wept as she gave me her only dowry, a velvet flower.
00:12In front of my family, I took two tails of silver and quietly slipped the other two to mother.
00:15I begged her to keep my brother and sister alive.
00:17Father had gone to town to work.
00:18He hadn't returned yet.
00:19Mother stood in the snow with my siblings, bidding me farewell.
00:20It was so cold.
00:21Mother didn't even have a proper coat to wear.
00:22The mule cart carried me farther and farther away.
00:24The storm soon blinded my eyes.
00:25There were 12 girls alongside me, all from our village and neighboring ones.
00:28They were about my age, though we had been bought by the child broker.
00:30At least we had food each day.
00:31Anyone chores.
00:32I would do chores like sweeping the courtyard.
00:34The Wynn family wasn't a big family.
00:35Besides Mrs. Wynn, there was only one concubine.
00:37She was Mrs. Wynn's maid, who was part of her dowry.
00:38Mrs. Wynn gave birth to three sons.
00:39It's said they were sent to Westmount's famous academy to study.
00:41They rarely saw them.
00:42All three sons were handsome, but the eldest son was the most handsome.
00:45He was like an angel.
00:46The eldest daughter was also born to Mrs. Wynn.
00:48She was 13 that year.
00:48She appeared gentle, but had quite a temper.
00:49The second daughter was born to the concubine.
00:51She was only seven that year.
00:51She was plump and fair, like a little doll.
00:53She also loved to laugh, was the youngest in the family, and has a cognitive disorder.
00:56So everyone doted on her.
00:57The Wynn family did not mistreat their retainers.
00:58After being there for a year, I had put on quite some weight.
00:59Mrs. Wynn gave us 200 coins every month as our pay, and we would get extra during festivals.
01:03I saved all this money, hoping I could send it home someday.
01:06I enjoyed such a life.
01:08The work was nothing compared to back home.
01:09In my spare time, I learned to knot cords, sewing, and chatted with other maids.
01:13The eldest daughter, Julia Wynn, loved poetry.
01:14Her head maid, Shannon, was kind, never stingy, and taught us to read whenever she had time.
01:18One day, I heard that one of the girls sold to Rivermore with me was beaten to death.
01:21Only then did I realize I was really lucky to work for such a kind family.
01:24Life here was like in a haven, but misfortune came swiftly.
01:26When I was 14, the patriarch was accused of some unknown crime.
01:28The Wynn family was ruined.
01:29All males and females over 15 were thrown into the death row.
01:31Those married were spared.
01:32The night before the confiscation, Mrs. Wynn returned all the indenture contracts and gave
01:34each servant 10 tails of silver, setting us free with a chance at life.
01:36Most of the Wynn family's servants had been newly bought, so most of them left in one night.
01:40I held my savings from these years and was about to head home.
01:42But when I looked at Miss Gemma, who was only nine and was innocent, my heart softened.
01:46The Wynn Manor had been seized.
01:47The Gemma and I had nowhere to live.
01:48She now needed a new name.
01:50So I gave her a new one, Grace.
01:52She was my sister.
01:53My name was Macy, Macy Chase.
01:54The Wynn family was held in prison.
01:55Even if I spent all my money, I still wouldn't be able to see that.
01:58I had to survive with Grace.
01:59To live, we needed food and shelter.
02:01I was strong and didn't fear hardship.
02:02I had learned to read in the past couple of years and could keep accounts.
02:04I rented a small boat and started selling wine on the riverside.
02:06To sell wine, one had to offer food.
02:08In summer and autumn, I sold shrimp and crab.
02:10In winter, I made warm snacks.
02:11The first year, after paying the rent, I earned 37 tails of silver.
02:13The Wynn family's case had been a great scandal.
02:15It seemed that they were about to be executed.
02:16But after a year, nothing happened.
02:17I sewed cotton coats and pants and took wine and food with Grace to visit them.
02:20My parents, my brother, and the concubine.
02:21Grace was delighted to wear the new clothes I made for her.
02:23She held my hand and shook it happily.
02:25The prison was not as strict as last year.
02:26I paid two tails of silver and the warden let Grace in me inside.
02:29The cell was dark and smelled foul.
02:30Grace was timid and clung to my hand, her eyes darting about like a lost little rabbit.
02:34I patted her hand and told her not to worry and that I was there for her.
02:36She smiled.
02:36She had dimples on both cheeks.
02:38The whole family was locked together.
02:39I could hardly recognize them anymore.
02:41They were thin and dirty beyond recognition.
02:42Of the three sons, only two remained.
02:44The eldest, Jonathan Wynn, was missing.
02:45I had only seen them three or four times.
02:47They were about the same age.
02:47Now, I could no longer tell who was who.
02:49No one knew where Jonathan was.
02:51The warden opened the door and gave us an hour.
02:53Straw was spread in the corner, which seemed like where they had slept.
02:55Grace looked at her parents, who she longed for, but couldn't recognize them.
02:58But her family knew her.
02:59Seeing her peeking out from behind me, afraid.
03:00Mr. Wynn called Gemma's name after a long pause.
03:02She remembered her old name and stared at her father for a long time.
03:04She seemed to have recognized him.
03:05She then called out, Father.
03:06Her pale cheeks streaked with tears.
03:07She hesitated, then rushed into her father's arms.
03:09The whole family looked at her and couldn't stop crying.
03:10Mr. Wynn did not know me.
03:11There had been over ten maids in the manor.
03:13He would be out most of the day.
03:14He had no time to remember us.
03:15Mrs. Wynn was only 40, but her hair had already turned gray.
03:17She looked like someone in her 60s, but she still recognized me.
03:19You're Macy, the maid.
03:20Her eyes were gray and found it difficult to speak.
03:22Mother, she's my sister, Grace said, clutching my hand.
03:24Mr. and Mrs. Wynn, please forgive me.
03:26I didn't dare let Miss Grace use her old name, though I gave her a new name.
03:28She's now called Grace Chase.
03:29Why are you apologizing?
03:30The Wynn family is now ruined.
03:31She's the only one left.
03:32Everything happened too suddenly.
03:33I had no time to find a place for her.
03:34I am very grateful.
03:36None of them expected that the only person who came to visit them was not their daughter,
03:39but a mere maid.
03:40Mrs. Wynn returned your indenture long ago.
03:41You are no longer a maid of the manor.
03:42There is no harm in you being Grace's sister.
03:44If the Wynn manor ever sees the light again, Macy shall be a member of the family.
03:47If the Wynn manor ever sees the light again, Macy shall be one of the heiresses of the family.
03:50When I saw Mr. Wynn, he still had his integrity.
03:51Things could still be turned around.
03:52I felt happy for Grace.
03:54I had no wish to become a young lady of the manor.
03:55I only wanted to return to my family.
03:56Running my own business on the river was also good.
03:58Mr. and Mrs. Wynn, please don't blame Miss Julia.
04:00I did go to the Bennett Manor with Grace before, but I didn't see her.
04:02I heard she had just given birth and was still in confinement.
04:03A few days later, the Bennett family moved to Eastboro.
04:05Even if Miss Julia wished to see you, she's too far away.
04:06And she has a child to care for.
04:07How could she possibly return?
04:08There were some things I didn't say.
04:09When Miss Julia heard what happened, she fainted twice.
04:11Her husband took advantage of that and carried her onto the boat.
04:13We were all ordinary folks.
04:14At a time like this, what was wrong with choosing to protect oneself?
04:16Soon, the time was up.
04:17I had to leave with Grace.
04:18She cried and wanted to bring her family along.
04:19It took quite a lot of effort to convince her to leave.
04:21Yet she sobbed and asked where her brother was.
04:22Throughout the manor, tales of Jonathan abound.
04:24He was not only exceptionally handsome, but had also earned top imperial exam honors by 20.
04:27He was seen to be the future grand chancellor.
04:28I didn't know about his talent, but I had to admit that he was really handsome.
04:30After all, his mother was an extraordinary beauty.
04:31Such a man was now nowhere to be found.
04:33Mr. Wynn remained silent.
04:34I knew I shouldn't ask any more questions.
04:36I took Grace home.
04:37We rented a courtyard on East Street with others.
04:39Grace and I had arrived first, so we took the two East Rooms.
04:40One as a bedroom and the other as the kitchen.
04:42On the West Side, three rooms housed a family of four.
04:43The man was a peddler, traveling the streets.
04:45His wife stayed home with the children.
04:46The peddler's surname was Hilton.
04:47He was six feet tall.
04:48Janet Monroe, his wife, wasn't a talker, but she was kind.
04:49In her spare time, she would embroider handkerchiefs and sachets,
04:51which the peddler would carry out to sell.
04:52I could manage sewing clothes and making shoes, but embroidery was beyond me.
04:54So I told Grace to learn embroidery from Janet.
04:55She was actually doing quite well.
04:56The fish and shrimp I had left unsold each day
04:58mostly ended up in the bellies of Grace and Janet's two children.
05:00This day was no different from any other, except Riverside had frozen over.
05:02Had to stop my business, so I changed to doing deliveries instead.
05:04After returning home and eating dinner, Grace was already drowsy.
05:06Once she fell asleep, I lit a lamp and started making time,
05:08especially for a girl like me with a sister.
05:09But the river had its own code.
05:11Paying for protection means someone was always watching out for you.
05:13I didn't fear hardship, but I did fear trouble.
05:14When the knock sounded at the door, I was startled.
05:16After all, in Rivermore, Grace and I depended on each other.
05:18Who would come find us at night?
05:19Who is it?
05:19I called out loudly.
05:20I'm a win.
05:21The voice outside was low.
05:22It was a deep, pleasant male voice.
05:23You're a win?
05:24The man outside slipped through the door.
05:25I quickly shut it behind him.
05:26He stood with his back to me at the bedside, looking at Grace.
05:28The house was small.
05:29Only a curtain separated the bed from the rest.
05:30Inside was the bedroom.
05:31Outside served as the living room.
05:32Now that he had drawn the curtain aside, everything could be seen clearly.
05:34He was very tall and wore a dark cloak.
05:35His hair was bound tightly with a band.
05:37I had a faint suspicion of who he might be, but I didn't dare ask.
05:39I simply waited for him to finish.
05:40Now that he had drawn the curtain aside, everything could be seen clearly.
05:42He was very tall and wore a dark cloak.
05:44His hair was bound tightly with a band.
05:45I had a faint suspicion of who he might be, but I didn't dare ask.
05:47I simply waited for him to finish.
05:48I added wood to the brazier, set a kettle to boil, and poured him a cup of tea.
05:51The tea was what we would serve to travelers on the riverboat.
05:52It wasn't the best tea, but it wasn't bad either.
05:54When he drew the curtain and stepped out, the oil lamp cast a dim golden glow.
05:56Yet I saw him clearly.
05:57People in the manor said that he was noble and had an outstanding figure.
05:59All my life, I had wondered what that meant.
06:00Too shallow to describe such a man.
06:01Most importantly, his skin was very fair.
06:02He didn't even take off his cloak when he sat down and picked up the cup of tea.
06:05Even his hands were fashioned with such grace.
06:06There was not a single flaw to be found in his looks.
06:08His eyes were dark, and when he looked at someone, they gave nothing away.
06:10It could make others panic.
06:11I looked at how he was dressed.
06:12He didn't seem down and out.
06:13That was because the clothes under his cloak were made from cloud-pattern brocade.
06:16They were very expensive.
06:17Since he wasn't down and out, then why did he not help his family?
06:19The court affairs were complicated.
06:20I didn't dare ask.
06:20It's of great importance.
06:21You must act with utmost care.
06:22I didn't want to take it.
06:23But hearing the urgency and helplessness in his words, I gritted my teeth and took the bag.
06:26I'll leave this with you.
06:27Give this to Abbott Leonard Sinclair at Morning Bell Abbey.
06:28This matter is of great importance.
06:29You must act with utmost care.
06:30I didn't want to take it.
06:31But hearing his helpless urgency as he said, I have no choice, I gritted my teeth and took the bag.
06:34The object was wrapped in cloth.
06:35It appeared to be a book.
06:36It wasn't very thick.
06:37When he handed it to me, it still bore the warmth of his touch.
06:38Young master, the Wynn family is still waiting for you in prison.
06:41In the end, I chose to say this for the Wynn family's and Grace's sake.
06:43He nodded.
06:44Suddenly, he smiled.
06:45His smile was as dazzling as the blazing sun.
06:46Each month, just getting inside was an extremely difficult task.
06:48At dawn the next day, I entrusted Grace to Janet and ascended Roost Hill.
06:50Though called a hill, Roost Hill was not steep or dangerous.
06:53I am used to hard labor.
06:54The walk wasn't long, so it didn't take a lot of effort for me.
06:55When I reached the Abbey gates, the doors were tightly shut.
06:57From within came the sound of chanting and the striking of wooden fish.
06:59I knocked several times before a young novice emerged.
07:00He was about five or six.
07:02He was quite adorable.
07:02He looked well cared for and fair-skinned.
07:03Upon seeing me, he greeted me formally.
07:05He said,
07:14I found him so adorable, I could not help but wish to pat his head.
07:19Yet I feared it might be forbidden.
07:20So I took two pieces of candy from my pouch for him.
07:21The same kind I would usually use to coax Grace.
07:23He pressed his lips together and was hesitant.
07:24I took his hand and placed the candy in his palm.
07:26I said,
07:28I knew I shouldn't have lied.
07:31But what else could I do?
07:32Had I not overheard some idle talk aboard the boat?
07:33I would never have thought of such a plan.
07:35Abbott Sinclair used to be the previous emperor's son.
07:37Even the present emperor must address him as royal uncle.
07:38During a rebellion,
07:39Abbott Sinclair was sent to quell the rebellion.
07:41The rebel Prince Wyatt kidnapped his family
07:42and threatened him to withdraw his troops.
07:44The princess consort feared he would be held back.
07:45So she and her children set fire to the manor.
07:47I heard one of the wet nurse escaped with a princess,
07:49but no one knew where they had gone.
07:50Disheartened, Abbott Sinclair chose to become a monk.
07:52If that princess was still alive,
07:53she would be about 15 or 16 years old.
07:55I heard one of the wet nurse escaped with a princess,
07:56but no one knew where they had gone.
07:58Disheartened, Abbott Sinclair chose to become a monk.
08:00If that princess was still alive,
08:01she would be about my age.
08:02The young novice was just a child
08:03and naturally knew nothing of the Abbott's past,
08:04yet he went inside to seek someone.
08:05Having mustered the courage to come,
08:06I wasn't so afraid now.
08:07As for pretending to be a commandery princess,
08:09I heard that in those days,
08:10many families brought their children
08:10to the prince's estate to claim kinship.
08:11Though none were truly related,
08:12I never heard of any losing their heads for it.
08:13The prince has become the abbot now
08:14and hardly take a life over this.
08:16Before long, a rotund monk emerged.
08:17His belly was round and full,
08:18with a large nose,
08:19the tip of which was red,
08:19and two plump cheeks.
08:20On another, such flesh might seem brutish,
08:22but on him,
08:22it only made him appear kindly and endearing.
08:24He looked me up and down,
08:24and with a beaming smile, he asked,
08:26Madam, what makes you so certain
08:27you are the abbot's daughter?
08:28As I was not, I dared not claim so.
08:29I guess.
08:30If the rumors among the folks proved true,
08:31I would match every detail.
08:32But whether it is true or not,
08:33only meeting the abbot can we be sure.
08:34After all, whether I am truly his daughter,
08:36only he himself can know for certain.
08:37I would match every detail.
08:38But whether it is true or not,
08:39only meeting the abbot can we be sure.
08:40After all, whether I am truly his daughter,
08:41only he himself can know for certain.
08:42Either way, meeting him was all that mattered.
08:44When false seems true, true becomes false.
08:45Brother Fred tilted his head,
08:46watching the little novice puff out his cheeks.
08:47He told him to hold out his hand.
08:48The little novice was clearly too naive
08:49and obediently opened his palm.
08:51Brother Fred's plump fingers pinched up
08:51the last piece of candy
08:52and popped it into his own mouth.
08:53He turned back, belly leading the way.
08:55The little novice was stunned.
08:55I looked at him and patted his tiny shoulder helplessly.
08:58What is your name?
08:59Olin Young.
08:59His face fell.
09:00He was on the verge of tears.
09:01Owen, listen to me.
09:02Every time your master falls asleep,
09:04go and scratch at his door.
09:05If he steals your food, then disturb his dreams.
09:07And if that fails, before you eat,
09:08spit twice on your food.
09:09Let's see if he still wants it then.
09:10Let him have his way this time.
09:11But when I return,
09:12I'll be sure to bring you more candy.
09:13I crouched before him,
09:15coaxing him gently.
09:15Owen had likely never heard such wicked advice.
09:17For a moment, he was dazed.
09:18He stared at me with those wide, round eyes.
09:20Owen had likely never heard such wicked advice.
09:21For a moment, he was dazed.
09:22He stared at me with those wide, round eyes.
09:24His master arrived soon after.
09:25He led me inside.
09:26Owen followed by my side,
09:27looking as though he wished to speak,
09:28but dared not.
09:28I grinned at him with pride.
09:29Perhaps he thought I was rather formidable.
09:30Abbott Sinclair had just finished his sermon.
09:32He awaited me beneath the Bodhi tree in the rear courtyard.
09:33Though it was winter and bitter cold,
09:34that tree alone remained lush and green as ever.
09:35Were it not for his shaven head and monk's robe,
09:36who would imagine him to be a monk?
09:43All others had withdrawn.
09:44He stood beneath the tree,
09:45turning prayer beads in his hand.
09:46Seen from afar, he resembled a painting.
09:47This humble girl has offended.
09:48I beg for your forgiveness, Abbott.
09:49The falsehood spoken today was out of necessity.
09:50I bowed low, offering my apology.
09:51Perhaps he was used to disappointment,
09:52for his expression did not change in the least.
09:54I removed the bundle from my shoulder
09:55and handed it to him.
09:55He opened it, glanced inside,
09:56then closed it again.
09:57What crime have you committed?
09:58A young woman with such courage and wit
09:59is a rare sight indeed.
10:00Did Ross entrust you with any message?
10:01His voice was clear and pleasant,
10:02measured and calm,
10:03a sound that brought joy to the heart.
10:04No.
10:05Did Jonathan entrust you with any message?
10:06His voice was clear and pleasant,
10:07measured and calm,
10:08a sound that brought joy to the heart.
10:09No.
10:10Ross must be Young Master Wind's courtesy name.
10:12Since you have come seeking me,
10:12you must truly be in some trouble.
10:14If he ever finds himself in difficulty,
10:15you may come to me at any time.
10:16May I ask, what is your name?
10:17And what do you do for a living?
10:18Macy Chase.
10:19I work as a wine boat maiden on the riverside.
10:20A fine young lady.
10:21Go on now.
10:21It had already been several months
10:22since the last time I met Abbott Sinclair.
10:23The riverside was no longer frozen,
10:24yet my business had only gotten better.
10:26On 3rd of March,
10:26I heard the eldest princess was touring the river.
10:27Grace insisted on going to watch,
10:28so naturally the business had to rest for a day.
10:29I took Grace early to see the spectacle.
10:30The princess was the elder sister of his majesty.
10:32Her father, the late emperor, loved her dearly.
10:33He married her to the prosperous city of Mukai.
10:34He even bestowed Rivermore upon her as her own domain.
10:36There were many tales about the princess.
10:37It was said her consort kept a mistress,
10:38so she sent men to have him made a eunuch.
10:40Afterwards, she herself kept many handsome favorites.
10:41She lived each day in pleasure and freedom.
10:42Anyone who caught her eye would not be able to escape.
10:44Thus, in Rivermore,
10:45rarely did one hear of any family's son being handsome.
10:47They would send the boys away
10:48once they could start going to school.
10:49They would rarely come home either,
10:51unless their family sought favor
10:52and wished to present their son themselves.
10:53Thus, in Rivermore,
10:54rarely did one hear of any family's son being handsome.
10:55They would send the boys away
10:56once they could start going to school.
10:58They would rarely come home either,
10:59unless their family sought favor
11:00and wished to present their son themselves.
11:01There were countless rumors about the princess.
11:02No one knew if they were real or not,
11:03but it was said that even his majesty yielded to her.
11:05Her power was plain for all to see.
11:06We arrived early,
11:07so naturally we claimed the best spot on the bridge.
11:08Whenever the princess traveled,
11:09the spectacle was grand indeed.
11:10There were three luxurious boats.
11:11Each one built three stories high.
11:12The princess was especially fond of white gauze.
11:13The boat that was covered in white gauze
11:14had to be the princess's.
11:15It was the one in the middle.
11:16Grace stared intently,
11:17chattering away loud as a flock of birds.
11:18On board,
11:19aside from the palace maids in attendance,
11:20most were young men,
11:20handsome and fair.
11:21There were all sorts and kinds among them.
11:22It seemed the tales of the princess
11:23harboring male consorts
11:24weren't mere idle gossip.
11:25Yet the princess herself was nowhere to be seen.
11:26As the boat drew nearer,
11:27a gust of wind blew in,
11:28lifting up that white gauze.
11:29Jonathan, it's my brother!
11:30Grace pointed straight at that boat.
11:31I was so startled,
11:32I quickly covered her mouth with my hand.
11:33When I turned back,
11:34the floating gauze was already settling down.
11:35But some faces were simply unforgettable.
11:36Even if it was only a glimpse,
11:37you could still recognize them
11:38at a glance amongst a crowd.
11:39But some faces were simply unforgettable.
11:41Even if it was only a glimpse,
11:42you could still see them
11:42at a glance amongst a crowd.
11:43The princess was clad in a white gauze gown,
11:45her long legs half revealed.
11:46Upon her brow,
11:46a delicate flower was painted.
11:47The red at the corners of her eyes
11:48and her slightly parted red lips
11:49were as clear as day.
11:50And he was lying just beneath the princess,
11:51his fair chest exposed to the lamplight.
11:52I could even see his knitted brows
11:53and the trembling sweep of his long lashes.
11:55The princess reached to touch his lips.
11:56He turned his head aside to evade her.
11:57In that single instant,
11:57he opened his eyes
11:58and we locked gazes.
11:59Thimes seemed to stretch on endlessly,
12:00yet slip away in a breath.
12:01It was long enough for me
12:01to see the shame and fury in his eyes,
12:03yet too brief for me
12:03to find the small mole
12:04at the corner of his mouth.
12:12He endured disgrace and burden.
12:13There was something dearer to him
12:14than his own life that he must protect.
12:15I had faith in him.
12:16To me, the days repeated themselves.
12:17That fleeting glimpse of the princess
12:18upon the river on 3rd March
12:19had taken root in my heart.
12:20The shame and forbearance
12:21in Jonathan's eyes
12:22was something I couldn't forget.
12:23To me, the days repeated themselves.
12:24That fleeting glimpse of the princess
12:25upon the river on 3rd March
12:26had taken root in my heart.
12:27The shame and forbearance
12:28in Jonathan's eyes
12:28was something I couldn't forget.
12:30Grace was growing up.
12:31Most of the words she learned
12:31in her early years
12:32had faded from memory.
12:32I once thought to send her
12:33to Morning Bell Abbey for her studies,
12:34but feared it would expose
12:34Jonathan's whereabouts.
12:35That was when the princess
12:36opened a ladies' academy,
12:36so I sent her and Janet's
12:37youngest daughter together.
12:38Though Grace was simple-minded,
12:39her memory was remarkable.
12:40She could recite what she learned
12:41word for word,
12:42borrowing her textbooks.
12:43I too have slowly learned to read.
12:44Only then did I understand
12:45that the treasures within books
12:46were no idle fancy.
12:46On the 15th,
12:47during the Dragon Boat Festival,
12:48I brought Grace to visit
12:48our family in the prison.
12:49We prepared rice dumplings,
12:49mugwort, and colored cords,
12:50and even painted a fan
12:51and stitched new garments.
12:52The conditions were
12:52much better than before.
12:53Mrs. Wynn no longer spoke
12:54with a feeble breath.
12:54Her two sons used the ground
12:55for paper and sticks for brushes
12:56to study in the prison.
12:57Aunt no longer spent
12:58her days in tears.
12:58I told Grace again and again,
12:59never to mention
13:00having met Jonathan.
13:01Otherwise, her parents
13:01would be consumed
13:02by grief and anger.
13:02Since the princess
13:03could keep Jonathan by her side,
13:04she had to know
13:04his true heritage.
13:05Such humiliation
13:06was nothing but revenge
13:06or a means to keep him in check.
13:07I told Grace again and again,
13:08never to mention
13:09having met Jonathan.
13:10Otherwise, her parents
13:10would be consumed
13:10by grief and anger.
13:11Since the princess
13:11could keep Jonathan by her side,
13:13she had to know
13:13his true heritage.
13:14Such humiliation
13:14was nothing but revenge
13:15or a means to keep him in check.
13:16Grace clung to Mr. Wynn's arm
13:17acting coy,
13:17showing off the fan she had
13:18written upon
13:18as though presenting a treasure.
13:19Mr. Wynn stroked his beard and showered her with praise
13:21Grace replied, it's all thanks to my sister
13:22She pulled out the undergarments sewn from fine cotton
13:24She said, Macy washed it, dried it, and softened the cloth
13:25Now I can help with the sewing too
13:26I entrusted Sally Kent, who came to Rivermore with me in those years
13:28To send 30 tails of silver and clothes back to our hometown
13:29Not long after, I received a letter from my father
13:30Back when the family split up, they only gave him 600 coins out of the two tails of silver from
13:33my indenture
13:33My parents brought my younger siblings into the county town
13:35Father and my brother now worked as clerks at the grain shop
13:36Mother and my sister washed and mended clothes
13:37Life had finally found some peace
13:38Now with this sum of silver, they could return to the village, buy land, and build a house
13:41They could finally arrange a marriage for my younger brother
13:42When the Wynn family fell into hardship, kin and friends avoided us at all costs
13:44Only I remained to care for them throughout
13:45Mrs. Wynn stroked my head and said to Mr. Wynn
13:46If we are fortunate enough to survive, let Jonathan marry Macy
13:48Where else can you find such a loyal and true-hearted woman?
13:50Mrs. Wynn stroked my head and said to Mr. Wynn
13:52If we are fortunate enough to survive, let Jonathan marry Macy
13:54Where else can you find such a loyal and true-hearted woman?
13:56I hurriedly declined
13:56Mr. and Mrs. Wynn, you returned my indenture to me
13:58That alone is the kindness of giving me a second life
13:59All that I have done springs from my own heart
14:00The young masters are destined for government service in the future
14:02And not to marry a lady of equal standing
14:03I ask only to remain in the Wynn family with grace
14:04Mr. Wynn sighed
14:05We can only wait and see what the future holds
14:06For now, by fear, we are holding you back
14:07May was a cursed month
14:08At night, one wouldn't go out unless there was urgent business
14:09I shut the door early
14:10Soothed Grace to sleep
14:11And opened my chest, counting again the silver and copper I had saved
14:14If the Wynn family was released
14:15It would be best if Mr. Wynn could regain his post
14:16But if he couldn't
14:17Where would they live once released?
14:18What would they eat?
14:19Could the two masters continue their studies?
14:20What would become of the eldest son?
14:22I found myself unable to dwell on any of these thoughts
14:23Buying a house was out of the question
14:24We could only afford to rent a larger place
14:25Yet the silver I had wasn't enough
14:27I had to find another way to earn a living
14:28The little income from the boat alone
14:29Would never be enough to support the studies of the two masters
14:32The silver I had wasn't enough
14:33I had to find another way to earn a living
14:35The little income from the boat alone
14:36Would never be enough to support the studies of the two masters
14:38I cradled my head
14:38And lying atop the table, I fell asleep
14:40When I woke up, I did not know when he had come
14:41But he sat right across from me
14:42My arm was numb beneath me
14:43And when I moved, it was as though ants burrowed into my very bones
14:45Aching and itching all at once
14:46I grimaced and bared my teeth
14:46Needing a good while to recover
14:47He simply watched me in silence
14:48Not uttering a single word
14:49There was a smell of whiskey on him
14:50He wore only a white robe
14:51With wide sleeves and flowing coat
14:52If the collar slipped an inch further
14:53His entire chest would be laid bare
14:55His hair was loose and wild
14:55His attire in disarray
14:56Most likely from drinking too much
14:57The corners of his eyes were tinged with red
14:58His gaze shimmering with unshed tears
14:59No wonder the princess set her sights on him
15:00He was just like a lustful demon
15:01I was 16
15:02Just the right age for marriage
15:04Yet I had never truly known any man
15:05My first real encounter was with a man of such extraordinary caliber
15:07A flushed face and a pounding heart were normal signs
15:09Truth be told, over the years I had become thick-skinned
15:10While I worked, I met all kinds of people
15:11Some liked dirty jokes
15:12I went from blushing to tuning them out completely
15:14But that all went down the drain
15:15In front of this guy
15:16Truth be told, over the years I had become thick-skinned
15:18While I worked, I met all kinds of people
15:19Some liked dirty jokes
15:20I went from blushing to have gotten used to them
15:22But that all went down the drain in front of this guy
15:24Mr. Jonathan, what brought you over?
15:25I wetted my lips
15:26And offered an awkward smile
15:27Are there any colored cords left?
15:28Please give me one
15:29He massaged his temples
15:30As if he was half-drunk
15:31I knew I should reason with a drunken man
15:32So I didn't say something like
15:34Look at the time
15:34Or the dragon boat festival had long passed
15:36I searched the sewing basket and found a length of cord
15:37I watched as he reached out his fair arm
15:39I then tied the colored cord on him
15:40He lifted his arm to inspect it
15:41But his sleeve was so wide that half his arm was revealed
15:43Upon that pale, well-shaped arm
15:44Were wounds
15:45Startling to behold
15:45Some fresh, some old
15:46The new ones were still bleeding
15:47The old ones were faint scars
15:49I was so shocked that I covered my mouth
15:50To prevent myself from calling out
15:51He saw my reaction
15:52Yet only smiled unconcerned
15:53What? Scared?
15:54As he spoke
15:55He reached to his collar and tugged
15:56Letting his white shirt gather around his waist and belly
15:58Revealing a body full of scars
15:59What? Scared?
16:00As he spoke
16:00He reached to his collar and tugged
16:02Letting his white shirt gather around his waist and belly
16:03Revealing a body full of scars
16:04I stared with wide eyes
16:05Gazing at the countless wounds that marred his pale body
16:07A sudden shock and pain struck me
16:08Back then I was young
16:09And did not yet understand what it was that so startled and pained me
16:11Do you know what I do each day?
16:11Do you know what it means to be a kept man?
16:13Each day, after drinking the medicine
16:13I lie prostrate beneath that woman
16:15Seeking her favor
16:15No matter what she did
16:16I couldn't even feel the pain
16:17Well, what use is it to be a laureate?
16:18What use is it to be a scholar?
16:19I lost my dignity long ago
16:20I'm just a corpse that even I myself despise
16:22If not for
16:23He must truly be drunk
16:24That was why he was troubled by what me and Grace saw that day
16:26If it were anyone else, it would matter little
16:27But Grace was his closest kin
16:28To her, he was the elder brother who was smart and talented
16:30How could he face Grace in the future
16:31After she saw him in such an embarrassing state?
16:33I rummaged through trunks and drawers to find the healing salves
16:34And prepared a basin of warm water
16:35The wounds upon his body
16:36Some from pinching
16:36Some from biting
16:37Some were from whips
16:37And some I couldn't tell the cause of
16:38My heart raced with fright and sorrow as I looked at them
16:40I rummaged through trunks and drawers to find the healing salves
16:42And prepared a basin of warm water
16:43The wounds upon his body
16:43Some from pinching
16:44Some from biting
16:44Some were from whips
16:45And some I couldn't tell the cause of
16:46My heart raced with fright and sorrow as I looked at them
16:47My hands dared not use much force
16:48Afraid that I would hurt him
16:49I could only bite my lip and tend to him with utmost care
16:51He was not as frail as he appeared
16:52His muscles were well-defined, taut and handsome
16:54Perhaps it was the pain
16:54His muscles were tensed
16:56Gradually, I found myself growing calm and unhurried
16:57I told him all that had happened in the prison today
16:59You're destined for great deeds
17:00Since you have saved the lives of our family
17:02You can leave the rest to me
17:03I shall see to it that everyone is cared for
17:05Death was the simplest thing in this world
17:06A length of rope, a sharp knife
17:07Even biting one's own tongue would do the trick
17:09But to live requires greater courage
17:10Mr. Jonathan, you're upright and unyielding
17:12Generous and open-hearted
17:13The harsher the frost and wind
17:14The more your metal shines through
17:14Under heavy burden
17:15In every choice and sacrifice
17:16Your spirit endures
17:16Now that you have made your choice
17:17Why torment yourself
17:18Those who know and love you will never forsake you
17:19This was probably the power of knowledge
17:21Now I knew what to say at different times
17:23Now that you have made your choice
17:24Why torment yourself
17:25Those who know and love you will never forsake you
17:27This was probably the power of knowledge
17:28Now I knew what to say at different times
17:30He closed his eyes and leaned back
17:32He seemed to be asleep
17:32The wound on his abdomen was worse than the others
17:34His waist was remarkably slender
17:35For some reason, I suddenly remembered what my mother once told me
17:37A man ought to be sturdy and strong
17:38If his waist was too thin, he wouldn't even be able to lift his wife
17:40How could he then possibly support his family?
17:42Such a thought made me want to laugh
17:43Though his waist was slim, he still seemed to be strong
17:45I've applied some medicine
17:46It's not necessary
17:46Soon it will split open again in a few days
17:47It's a waste
17:48He sat up straight
17:48I helped him dress
17:49You must protect yourself
17:50No matter what, you ought to protect yourself
17:52How am I supposed to protect myself?
17:53This is already the most I can do
17:54If I am to grovel and beg for favor like the rest
17:56I would rather be dead
17:57His voice was bitter
17:58For a moment, I was at a loss for words
17:59It was easier said than done
18:01I wondered how he was able to convince himself
18:03To become the princess's kept man back then
18:04And how he had kept going until now
18:05How did he ever talk himself into
18:07Becoming the princess's kept man?
18:08And how did he endure until this day?
18:10He would rather bear the pain in his flesh
18:11Than surrender the last shred of his pride
18:13I am hungry
18:13Could you make something for me?
18:14Is it alright to return so late?
18:15She gave the go-ahead today
18:16Told me to come home and check
18:17But where's my home now?
18:18There's only this place left for me
18:19I visited the prison today
18:20And I won't go out on the boat tomorrow
18:21There was not much food
18:22There were only two fishes left in the water tank
18:23I caught one of them
18:24Cleaned it up and steamed it fresh
18:25He found the little stool Grace usually sits on
18:26When stoking the fire
18:27And sat at the kitchen watching me cook
18:28I reheated the leftover a bowl of plain porridge
18:30Ready to eat
18:30Steamed fish as quick to make
18:31I scooped him half a plate of drunken shrimp
18:32And sliced a few pieces of cured meat to fry
18:33He was not picky with his meals
18:34I didn't make much of anything
18:35He ate every bite
18:36Leaving nothing behind
18:37While I was scrubbing the bowls
18:37He stood by the stove
18:38Watching
18:38He was tall
18:39Under the lamplight
18:40His shadow stretched long across the wall
18:41I wanted to find another way to make a living
18:42When Mr. and Mrs. Wynn were released from prison
18:44If their official rank couldn't be restored
18:45I hoped to rent a larger house
18:46If the young masters could get an education
18:47They certainly should when they returned
18:55Though business upon the riverboat was great
18:57The earnings were truly meager
18:58At that time
18:58It may be difficult even to make ends meet
18:59Let alone hope for anything more
19:01I shared my thoughts with him
19:02He lowered his gaze
19:03A deep shadow cast beneath his eyes
19:04Have you ever thought of me?
19:05He suddenly asked
19:05Of course I have thought of you
19:06I don't know what you're doing
19:07But I think it must be entwined with the princess
19:09Affairs of the royal kin
19:10Are ever shrouded in secrecy
19:11Who could know how things will unfold?
19:12I only pray you may escape unscathed
19:14That alone would be a blessing
19:15As for more
19:15I dare not hope
19:16He curled his lips
19:17As though he smiled
19:18Yet he didn't
19:18Don't
19:18So what do you want to do?
19:20Business was good this year
19:20Besides the 30 tails of silver I sent to my parents
19:22And what I spent to ease daily needs in the prison
19:23I still had 60 tails of silver and 57 large coins
19:26Such a sum would not suffice to rent even the most remote shop in Rivermore
19:28I had yet to decide what I would do
19:29These few days I would not go out on the boat
19:30I would scout around first for a better line of work
19:32I had yet to decide what I would do
19:33These few days I would not go out on the boat
19:35I would scout around first for a better line of work
19:37Money got things done
19:38It was easy to earn money with money
19:39But to earn money off folk
19:40That's not something to be done by sheer effort
19:41I'll find a way to handle the money
19:42No don't
19:43If you had money in hand you'd have brought it back long ago
19:45Why would you have waited till now?
19:46Just mind your own well being
19:47Allow me some time
19:48There's bound to be a way
19:48He looked at me with a half smile, half frown
19:50I found his gaze rather baffling
19:51I frowned right back at him
19:52He tapped me on the forehead
19:53With one pale finger
19:54Nearly sending me toppling over backward
19:55I clutched my reddening forehead and glared at him in irritation
19:57He only laughed
19:58His lips were rosy, his teeth white
19:59So strikingly handsome
20:00I borrowed 100 tails of silver from Sally
20:01And agreed I'd repay her
20:02130 tails of silver in half a year
20:03Then I asked one of the boatmen to pretend I was a young lady seeking kin
20:05And sailed with him to east shore to gather pearls
20:07That could bring tenfold returns
20:08Only the waves at sea were ever fickle
20:09It all depended on luck
20:10Two months later I returned
20:11The sea sun had tanned me deeply
20:12But I'd cleared over 600 tails of silver
20:13Then I asked one of the boatmen to pretend I was a young lady seeking kin
20:16And sailed with him to east shore to gather pearls
20:17That could bring tenfold returns
20:18Only the waves at sea were ever fickle
20:20It all depended on luck
20:20Two months later I returned
20:21The sea sun had tanned me deeply
20:22But I'd cleared over 600 tails of silver
20:24I rented a storefront on East Street
20:25After cleaning it up I opened a dumpling shop
20:27I replaced the door curtain with a bamboo one
20:28Put out a few pots of chrysanthemums
20:29The four tables were small
20:29But business was booming
20:30After school Grace would come help out
20:32I even hired Janet to work in the kitchen
20:33A few days before opening
20:34Jonathan came by late at night
20:35He wore a black robe with a jade green belt
20:36Which made his waist look even slimmer
20:37You've got some nerve actually daring to go out to sea
20:39He frowned clearly annoyed
20:40You were never much to look at
20:41And now you're dark as cold
20:42Who'd ever marry you now?
20:43No need to worry about me
20:43My father arranged a childhood betrothal for me
20:45Once the Wind family settles down
20:46I'll head home and get married
20:46I said it just to get under his skin
20:47He raised an eyebrow
20:48But didn't say anything more
20:49He gave a silver note and turned to leave
20:50I grabbed his sleeve
20:51Try my seafood dumplings
20:52So good you might just swallow your tongue
20:53He sat down
20:54I took the chance to ask him to write the shop sign
20:55Already picked the name?
20:56He picked up the brush
20:57Let's call it seafood dumplings
20:58Simple and clear for everyone
20:59He rolled up his sleeves and started writing
20:59His strokes bold and elegant
21:02I was entranced
21:08He turned smiling and asked
21:09Will this do?
21:09In his eyes shimmered the stars themselves
21:10He ate two bowls of dumplings
21:11I returned the silver note to him and said
21:13Once money gets involved
21:13Feelings lose their purity
21:14He accepted the silver note
21:15With a sigh he said
21:17Day after day
21:18When I turned 19
21:18The princess returned to the capital
21:20It was said she'd be staying a while
21:20And would not be leaving soon
21:22When the princess departed
21:23She took him with her as well
21:23In fact he seldom came
21:24Perhaps once a month or even less
21:25And when he did
21:26It was in the dead of night
21:27Staying no longer than it took to have a meal
21:28We barely exchanged a few words
21:29Yet I longed for him, thought of him
21:30Beauty led nations to ruin
21:31And beauty could ruin me
21:32But he was never aware of his own charm
21:33In the twelfth month
21:34His majesty made a vow
21:35Though I knew not what vow he uttered
21:36His majesty was a Taoist believer
21:36Each day refining elixirs
21:37Seeking everlasting life
21:38It was known to all under heaven
21:39Yet this vow was the finest he'd ever made
21:40And imperial amnesty was forthcoming
21:41And the Wynn family was to be released
21:42In December
21:43His majesty made a vow
21:44None knew the words he spoke
21:45Yet was known to all that he was devoted to
21:47The quest for eternal life
21:48Yet the vow was truly grand
21:49For he granted amnesty to all
21:50Including the Wynn family
21:51Only my aunt caught a winter chill
21:53And did not survive it
21:54I rented another small estate
21:55With six rooms
21:56All tidied and made ready
21:57We held a joyous new year feast
21:58Though he was absent
21:59Gemma had blossomed into a young lady of fourteen
22:01Graceful as a willow
22:02Standing tall and fair
22:02Her affliction seemed to have faded
22:04She spoke and acted with clarity
22:05Yet rather earnest at times
22:06When I asked her to move back home
22:07She refused firmly
22:08No matter how hard I tried
22:09I was now but an old maid
22:10Yet she had grown up
22:10And could not spend her days in the shop
22:12She was so fair
22:13And ought to stay at home
22:14To cultivate her temperament
22:15Learn the arts of music and chess
22:16From her parents
22:17When her brother returned one day
22:18He would arrange a fine marriage for her
22:20Unpersuaded
22:20I brought her home with me
22:21I gave the rear courtyard to Monroe's
22:23Letting them dwell free
22:24So they could watch over the shop
22:26A plan that served us both
22:28I was then a free woman
22:33And had long been unconnected to the winds
22:34Living with Gemma was still pleasant
22:35But at home
22:36I always felt somewhat uneasy
22:37Yet they treated me as if
22:38I were their own daughter
22:39No different from how they treated Gemma
22:40Both gentlemen had shown me the utmost courtesy
22:42I too had become accustomed to calling
22:44Them uncle, aunt, and brother
22:46He had been gone half a year without a word
22:48Uncle seemed to have found a new interest
22:49He taught at the school for half the day
22:50And spent the rest to tutor my brothers at home
22:52He was truly a scholar by imperial exams
22:53Gemma no longer went to school
22:54Practicing letters and needlework with her mother
22:56She did not go to school
22:57She tried to keep the house in order
22:58And she was capable in every regard
22:59If I were to prepare for her a generous dowry
23:01She would surely find a suitable gentleman
23:02A grand household might be hard
23:04But a respectable family was within reach
23:05I only wished that
23:06She might wed a man who would cherish her
23:07And her life be free of worry
23:08If I were to prepare for her a generous dowry
23:10She would surely find a suitable gentleman
23:11A grand household might be hard
23:13But a respectable family was within reach
23:14I had only wished that
23:15She might wed a man who would cherish her
23:16And her life be free of worry
23:17One evening I returned home late
23:18The air was tense and somber
23:19no one could tell me what had happened they only said uncle had locked himself in his chamber upon
23:24returning from the school he had eaten nothing all day in my heart i vaguely understood he must
23:28have learned about jonathan it was only a matter of time i cooked some dumplings from the shop let
23:32the others eat first then carried a bowl to find him the room to the east had been set aside
23:36as a
23:36study and there he was within it i called his name several times before he answered entering the room
23:39i found there was no light the moonlight streaming through the window cast a faint outline i set the
23:43food upon the table then found a tinder stick and lit the lamp once it was lit i saw uncle
23:45seem to
23:45have aged many years all at once his hair already streaked with gray appeared whiter than ever he
23:49was hunched unable to straighten his back any longer once it was lit i saw uncle seem to have
23:52aged many years all at once his hair already streaked with gray appeared whiter than ever he
23:55was hunched unable to straighten his back any longer uncle have you heard of jonathan's affairs i set the
23:59bowl before him and handed him the chopsticks his hands trembled so violently he could not hold them
24:02do you grieve his tarnished name or ache for him he has suffered too much it was i who erred
24:05his tears
24:06fell unchecked he cared more for his son than his reputation uncle since you ache for him speak no
24:10more of bringing him harm he bore much sorrow he hid the truth fearing you might blame him or grieve
24:15in
24:15guilt he has borne so much hardship we should live as we always have just as before we should live
24:19our life well we are family we cannot keep such accounts we should treat him as before so he feels
24:24at ease i sought out a kerchief and wiped his tears but with such a reputation how will he marry
24:28and
24:28raise a family uncle he is a fine man a worthy wife shall be his in time you need not
24:32worry all you must
24:33do is keep your health and spirit well and wait for your grandson all you must do is keep your
24:36health
24:37and spirit well and wait for your grandson he was such a good man like the bright moon with starlight
24:40twinkling in his eyes surely there would be a worthy lady for him he had endured too much hardship if
24:44the
24:44heavens would show him mercy they will grant him a wife who loves and protects him in july i entrusted
24:48the shop to janet monroe and aunt then rode back to my hometown sally's supplies i left home at 12
24:52seven years had passed my hometown had changed as well with the silver i sent back my family bought
24:56fields and built a house my sister was married my brother took a wife my grandparents have passed
24:59even the three uncles had married yet between us only unfamiliarity remained my sister-in-law pried into
25:02my monthly allowance but called me auntie behind my back father had been the family patriarch he never asked
25:06how i had been faring only urged me to send more silver for his grandson my sister asked for more
25:10silver too
25:10and complained about father's partiality but what broke my heart most was that mother had passed away years ago
25:14and no one had told me i found the red shoes she made for me and remembered she promised a
25:17red jacket
25:18for my wedding inside the chest where the red shoes made for me she promised me a red wedding coat
25:22i stayed only three days left behind ten silver tails wept at mother's grave and then left without
25:25looking back i didn't want to stay there anymore in august i returned to rivermore the chrysanthemums
25:29were in full bloom autumn gave way to winter heavy snow fell over the south the emperor didn't provide
25:32relief but held parties which led to disasters on new year's eve the princess plotted rebellion the next day
25:35the emperor died after the princess ended the throne he focused on refugees and relief the kingdom
25:39gradually stabilized in april when i was sorting fish and shrimp grace came running in tears to bring news she
25:42said someone from the
25:43palace had come when i returned home it was dean foster who had helped us escape he said he had
25:46heard about my unrivaled dumplings actually he came to tell us about jonathan he and the new emperor
25:50were like brothers the winds suffered to support the new emperor he wanted to marry me the loyal
25:53servant who cared for his sister and honored his parents the emperor wanted to know my thoughts i
25:56frankly said i only wanted a lifelong dedicated relationship the wind family owed me nothing but
25:59mother mentioned the proposal again she wanted me to go with her to the capital and the very next day
26:02the gate was crowded with relatives seeking favor i frankly said i only wanted a lifelong dedicated
26:05relationship the wind family owed me nothing but mother mentioned the proposal again she wanted me to go with her
26:08to the capital at the very next day the gate was crowded with relatives seeking favor on the fifth
26:11day my brother rushed in with urgent news saying mother fainted from arguing with uncle's family
26:14and julia win father strained his back while driving them out i hurried home julia was changing her
26:18kids swaddling on my bed i lost my temper at once driving out all those who came to curry favor
26:21julia
26:21wailed non-stop mr winn sighed and spoke of the past she was proud and willful insisting on marrying
26:25out during the hard times she never showed up now she wished to reap the harvest i slapped her across
26:28the
26:28face declaring she had no right to enjoy the fruit at dawn the next day julia left with her child
26:33half a month later the whole family was going to the capital grace wept refusing to board the carriage i
26:36promised to
26:36fetch her after my wedding watching the carriage depart a sudden weakness overcame me two days later
26:40i entrusted the shop to janet and left rivermore alone two years passed in the blink of an eye i
26:43went to collect pearls in east shore village life was simple but i could never truly forget jonathan
26:47watching the carriage depart a sudden weakness overcame me two days later i entrusted the shop
26:50to janet and left rivermore alone two years passed in the blink of an eye i went to collect pearls
26:53in
26:53east shore village life was simple but i could never truly forget jonathan snow fell thick in the
26:56depths of winter with my silver notes i returned to the capital jonathan was leading the treasury department
26:59his power unrivaled throughout the land yet he was never married rumors swirled throughout the city
27:02wind manor was easy to find the gatekeeper saw me checked the portrait and announced my arrival i walked through
27:05the winding
27:06corridors and ran straight into jonathan he was as dignified and graceful as ever the mole beside
27:08his eye was still captivating he asked about that rascal husband of mine i made up an excuse without
27:12thinking when he asked if i was well i said everywhere was fine except without you in the
27:15back courtyard mother pulled me into her arms father's eyes grew red as well second brother
27:19placed in the top three third brother worked in the ministry of works her wife was a forthright
27:22woman she told me grace was an expectant consort her marriage was won by jonathan's persistence
27:25not long after grace belly round threw herself at me crying as she exposed my lie about my husband
27:29after supper jonathan called me to the study snowflakes settled upon my hair as if we'd
27:32grown old together after supper jonathan called me to the study snowflakes settled upon my hair
27:35as if we'd grown old together he asked why i didn't want to marry him and if i thought he
27:38was
27:38unclean in a rare moment of courage i kissed him then flustered i fled in haste and hid myself within
27:41dalehurst estate on the eleventh day dean arrived to escort me to the palace within the royal study
27:44the emperor smiled as he exposed my falsehood he then gathered all the court officials and
27:48bathom accused jonathan of immoral conduct in the palace magistrate george made the first challenge
27:51i stepped forward and declared jonathan bore disgrace for the sake of his family he concealed
27:54himself to aid your majesty he endured humiliation and hardship how could that be disloyal the treasury
27:57of grand crest overflows it's his achievement my words left magistrate george speechless the
28:01emperor applauded and praised me he forbade anyone to mention jonathan's past on the road leaving the
28:05palace for the first time i called his name i confessed i was not worthy of him yet he turned
28:07and replied who is worthy of him is for him to decide in the wind manner i no longer hid
28:11from
28:11him a few days later jonathan returned late deep in drink he fainted in the icy bathhouse the page
28:14boy said he would see only me gazing upon the old scars crisscrossing his body i recalled all his
28:17past suffering i couldn't hold back my feelings anymore so i bent down and kissed him gazing upon
28:20the old scars crisscrossing his body i recalled all his past suffering i couldn't hold back my
28:22feelings anymore so i bent down and kissed him at dawn the next morning mother was standing at my
28:25bedside jonathan knelt upon the floor his face beaming with joy mother decided to set a date for our
28:28wedding the emperor bestowed the marriage it would be on the eighth day of december i awaited my marriage at
28:32grace kept me company every day jonathan came twice but each time grace sent him away he left me some
28:36notes saying that he'd fallen for me long ago but i never knew and that he was really happy to
28:39marry
28:40me soon on the eighth day of december an auspicious day i departed from dalehurst estate jonathan came
28:43for me in festive attire his gaze was so tender as he said macy win i've come to marry you
28:47i sat down
28:47my round fan looking upon his handsome brow and eyes i remember the farewell in the blizzard
28:51it felt as though a lifetime passed after our wedding he cherished me a lot he accompanied me ate my
28:54dumplings and listened to my tales of east shore at last i understood the finest love was not found in
28:57matching status after weathering every storm together he still held my hand and said for the rest of my life
29:01i will be with
29:01you i was lucky enough in this tumultuous world to find my true love for life
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