Only after seventeen years of being raised as the marquis’s precious daughter did I discover I was an impostor.
The day his real daughter came home, I flung myself into my parents’ arms, sniffling.
“I’ll always be your daughter, won’t I?”
Their eyes reddened as they nodded.
“Silly child.
Do you think we can’t afford to raise two girls?”
I lifted my tearful eyes and slipped the jade bracelet off my wrist.
“Sister, I know I’ve taken your place.”
“I’ve worn this bracelet for three whole days and I’m already tired of it.
Please accept it as my apology.”
“And you can have the South Sea pearl powder I’ve been saving in my dressing case.
It’s gone damp and clumpy, but you’re strong!
Just give it a good pounding.”
“My monthly allowance is ten taels of silver.
Nine should do for you.
I’d hate for too much money to go to your head.”
“Oh, and we’ll cut your charcoal allowance by a fifth.
You’re so sturdy and healthy, too much heat might be bad for you.”
