The noble consort who had been cherished all her life said on her deathbed that she regretted everything.
“If there is a next life, I would gladly trade places with you. I would be a lowly palace maid, endure until I turned twenty-five, then leave the palace and be free.”
“The emperor’s favor, all this hollow wealth and splendor – whoever wants it can have it.”
Tears ran down her face as she said that all she wanted was a love that was pure and true.
Just before she closed her eyes, she clutched my hand.
“Cherry, will you do it? Will you trade places with me?”
Weeping, I pressed my lips to her ear.
“This servant is willing.”
I had spent a lifetime cleaning up her messes.
I was so tired.