After they discovered I was not their real daughter, they began withholding everything—my food, my clothes, even the charcoal for my fire.
My betrothal to the Pei family became the only thing I could rely on.
But Pei Xuan’s moods were impossible to predict.
A single word from me would often anger him enough to send a letter breaking off our engagement.
I spent my days in fear and my nights in worry.
At last, I fell gravely ill.
When I woke, the lady of the household stood before me.
“A captain serving under my uncle commands a hundred men.”
“His birth is humble, but he is young and brave.
He has distinguished himself in battle again and again.”
Holding the letter of repudiation, she looked pained.
“The Peis may be an excellent family, but your present standing makes you an unsuitable match.
You live in constant fear.”
“What are wealth and glory worth beside your life?”
“We were mother and daughter once.
I truly want to find you a good husband.”
I pressed a hand to my chest and nodded through my tears.
“I understand, my lady.”
“I will marry him.”
