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