📙 When My Sixth Sister Declined The Concubine Position, I Made Her The Scumbag's Official Wife

Welcome to PandaTale. I hope you have a great time listening to the story. If you enjoy it, don't forget to give me a like, leave a comment, and subscribe. General Marcus Sterling, the man I loved, stood before everyone and asked to break our engagement with me. I nodded in agreement. The prestigious general's reputation was formidable. Taking in a few more concubines wouldn't matter. My younger sister Sophia couldn't bear the humiliation and threw herself into the lake, wanting to use death to prove her honor. Marcus, to save her, didn't hesitate to give her mouth-to-mouth resuscitation in front of everyone. I sneered. Since the general had such feelings, then let's break the engagement. On the day of my coming-of-age ceremony, he should have brought the jade pendant to the Sterling residence to propose. But he returned the jade pendant to me in front of everyone. That day, besides the respected elders of the chamber's family and my maternal grandfather, Princess Catherine, the most noble person in the capital, personally came to do my hair. Miss Eleanor, the one he loves, is my younger sister Sophia. This jade pendant should be returned to its rightful owner. I hope you will grant us this favor. His voice was neither loud nor soft, but enough for all the guests in the hall to hear. My expression remained calm. He seemed surprised that I would say such a thing, frozen in place for a moment. Sophia bit her lip, standing to the side with reddened eyes. If I cannot be with Marcus for one lifetime, as one couple, what meaning does my life have? After saying this, she threw herself into the lake, wanting to use death to prove her desires. Marcus connicked and jumped in after her, but she had no will to live. In that urgent situation, Marcus pressed his lips to hers, giving her mouth to mouth resuscitation. Gas echoed around us. Everyone couldn't help but gape. Sophia stirred awake, bursting into sobs, calling out, Marcus. Princess Catherine ordered her servants to quickly separate the two. How improper. However, Marcus wrapped Sophia in his black cloak to protect her, which displeased the princess. You truly deserve blame. But his dark eyes looked at me full of reproach. Miss Eleanor, why must you use your status to humiliate Sophia like this? With her strong personality, how could she possibly agree to be a concubine? Moreover, I have no feelings for you. That engagement was merely a joke between our elders. Today I return this jade pendant to you. From now on, you and I have nothing to do with each other. The corner of my mouth lifted in a sneer. If the general is so determined, then let's break the engagement. The eyes of everyone in the family looked at me with both pity and scatenfruit. Some even said outright that I had disgraced the chamber's family. Only Princess Catherine gently clapped her hands and said, Honor, I will definitely demand an explanation from old General Sterling. Father punished both Sophia and me to kneel in the ancestral hall. The ruler continuously struck our palms. I only frowned slightly without saying a word. Sophia beside me cried pitifully. Father, it's all my fault. Young General Sterling never liked Sister, thinking she was always cold and distant. I only had good intentions, wanting to bring them together. But who knew? Who knew Marcus would actually like me? Had I known, had I known this, I would have stayed far away from Marcus, not having the heart to steal away Sister's fate. Father, please punish me. Sophia knows she was wrong. Sob sob sob. Lady Vivian felt sorry for Sophia and shielded her. Master, what did Sophia do wrong? It's clearly that Marcus who can't help but want her. Father's beard trembled with anger. Eleanor, I'm this old and still losing face because of you all. Then he looked at me reproachfully. Eleanor, you're usually clever and tactful. If Marcus wanted to break the engagement, you should have just suffered a little loss and listened to him first. Then we could discuss it more carefully later. Now that you've agreed to break the engagement, everyone knows about it. How can we resolve this later? I slightly raised my eyes, glancing at Sophia without a trace. Father also knows today is my coming-of-age ceremony. Even if Marcus wanted to break the engagement, why did he have to choose the day? If Sophia was also wronged like this, could Father stand up for her and demand clarification? My nose couldn't help but sting a little. Father, if Mother were still here, he'd cut me off. Of course his behavior was wrong, but you should have endured a bit more. And you're still mentioning your mother here. You're just like your deceased mother, always putting on a cold face that makes men lose interest. Father, I looked at him incredulously. How does Father know I didn't endure him? I even advised him to learn from Father and enjoy blessings with sisters. We two sisters could be like Mother and Lady Vivian, both marrying into the Sterling residence as wife and concubine. He suddenly raised his hand and slapped my face. My ears rang, and blood slowly trickled from the corner of my mouth. Lady Vivian hurriedly pulled me back. Eleanor, quickly apologize to your father. The corner of my mouth lifted in a smile. What did I say wrong? If that's not acceptable, then kneel here. Lady Vivian suddenly shouted, Oh no, Sophia has fainted. Sophia has admitted her mistake, and today she was soaked in cold water. The child can't take any more punishment. Father snorted and waved his sleeve, walking out. Lady Vivian supported Sophia, following closely behind. I straightened my back, stubbornly kneeling in the ancestral hall. In the ancestral hall, Mother's memorial tablet stood with incense smoke curling up. I whispered softly, Mother, if you were still here, would you blame me for being useless, being rejected? For a whole day and night, Father never sent anyone to check on me. Finally, I couldn't bear it anymore and collapsed unconscious. When I woke up, I saw my aunt by my bedside with swollen red eyes. My maidspring was also crying beside her. Miss, finally Miss is awake. I opened my dry, cracked lips. Isabella, you're the only one in the Chambers family who came to see me. She wiped her tears with a handkerchief. After Mother passed away, if not for Sister's protection, Mother and I would have been harmed by Lady Vivian long ago. If I didn't come, wouldn't that break Sister's heart? She couldn't help but feel a bit sad. It's just that Sister has suffered so much for nothing. That Sophia just pretended to faint and got away with it. I'm really angry to the point of dizziness. She sighed again. Father always favors those two Mother and Daughter. It's clear she deliberately seduced Sister's fiancé. Sister has endured hardship for Marcus, learning horseback riding, archery, and polo, and those knee guards and boots on Marcus's body, all hands sewn by Sister, and those calligraphy and poems too. Why didn't Sister tell Marcus? If Marcus knew, he definitely wouldn't break the engagement with Sister. But even if he knew these things, so what? Would he feel pity and then let both Sophia and me marry into the Sterling residence? But I didn't want that in my heart. My engagement with Marcus was decided when I was still in Mother's womb. Since childhood, Mother told me I would marry into the Sterling residence as the mistress. I must not let outsiders easily judge my every word and action. She taught me etiquette and rules, made me study the female precepts and female instructions, learn the four arts of music, chess, calligraphy and painting, poetry and prose. She said most men were unfaithful. After marrying into the Sterling residence, I just needed to manage the household well. No matter how many concubines there were, they could never surpass me. Princess Catherine, Mother's close friend, sent a palace nanny to teach me how to be a wife, teaching me how to manage household affairs. But as time passed, I still wholeheartedly focused my thoughts on Marcus, a young girl's dreams, especially when that person was a promising young general. At first, in my innocence, all the poems I wrote in my room expressed admiration and longing for him. Knowing he was good at horseback riding and archery, even if it wore my feet raw, I wanted to learn polo. But everything stopped there. Although we had an engagement, I always treated him with proper courtesy and etiquette. Knowing he suffered cold and hardship in the army, I spent whole nights sewing knee guards and tall boots for him. Afraid others would mock me, I had them delivered through the chamber's residence. Later, he also gave small gifts in return. Although Isabella and Sophia also received a share, I always felt my gifts were different from theirs. Otherwise, why would he always look at me from afar and smile like that? Now thinking back, those things weren't for me at all. They were all for Sophia behind me. Even when it came to giving a small gift, he didn't want her to feel slighted. If I hadn't caught them having an intimate conversation behind the rockery that day, I would have realized that my polite courtesy in his eyes was cold distance. My virtuous propriety in his eyes was dry, principled, and boring. Not interesting at all, and not as beautiful as Sophia. But in the capital, the chambers and sterling families were major clans. I thought he would always care about face. From childhood I was groomed to become the mistress of the house, so I certainly had the ability to understand people's hearts. If he wanted to take in a few concubines later, what would it matter? But he didn't hesitate to destroy the face of both families for Sophia, didn't hesitate to destroy my life. Since ancient times, this world had been extremely harsh on women, always placing all blame on women no matter what happened. Before long, I would be secretly sent to a nunnery to spend the rest of my life. A chamber's daughter, who was rejected, this was how it ended. Indeed, not many days later, old General Sterling escorted Marcus to apologize before father. When father and Lady Vivian came to my courtyard, he no longer had the angry appearance from that day. Eleanor, I only blame you for being incompetent. Now for the face of both the sterling and chamber's families, we have to let Sophia replace you in marrying into the sterling residence. I caught the joy on Lady Vivian's face in my eyes. That's right. Whether it was me or Sophia, we were both daughters of the chamber's family. Whoever married into the sterling residence could consolidate the chamber's family's position for father. I sat quietly at the table. Lady Vivian pretended to be concerned and took my hand. Eleanor, I'm also your stepmother. I absolutely cannot watch you suffer for life in a nunnery. She slipped a name card into my palm. My nephew is almost 40 but has never married. His family is very far from the capital. When you marry there, no one will know about your previous broken engagement. I sneered and tore the card in half. Lady Vivian calculates so well. Your daughter replaces me in marrying into the sterling residence while arranging to marry me far away. In the future, the chamber's family will only have you and your children left. Too bad when mother didn't see clearly this despicable face of yours. Father angrily pointed at me. Your stepmother has good intentions, not wanting you to waste your life in a nunnery. Yet you don't know what's good for you and speak so harshly. If you want to marry, let her arrange it herself. If I send you to a nunnery, so what? Someone, guard the miss carefully for me. When nephew arrives in the capital, have him take the miss away." Then indeed, the door was locked from outside. Spring worriedly said, Miss, let this servant sneak out to ask grandmother for help. But the people outside the door absolutely refused to let spring out. My palms clenched tightly, damp with sweat. I kept pacing back and forth. I didn't expect father to be truly so heartless. Suddenly I remembered something and hurriedly lifted the bedboard. Finally, I found a jade pendant necklace. I took paper and brush, writing while saying, Even if we find grandmother, she can't help me. Right now, only one person can save me. But miss, we're locked in here now. How can we deliver this letter and token outside? Have you forgotten? Isabella is still outside. That's right, there's still second miss. Indeed, Isabella came every day. But the people outside had received father's orders and wouldn't allow anyone in. This time father was determined. My heart was also a bit worried. Five days later, the lock outside finally made a sound. Sister, it's Isabella. Sister, why are you so thin? I took her hand. How did you persuade father to let you in? Isabella calmly looked at me. My stepmother is pregnant. Father is very happy. So I begged him to let me visit sister. I frowned. Pregnant? Sister, don't worry. This pregnancy is already over five months. The doctor said it's very stable. It's because of me that stepmother. Isabella held my hand again. Sister, don't worry. I'm no longer the same as before. I will protect stepmother well. Sister, do you have a way? Only then did I hand her the letter and token. The princess's noble status might be able to save me. Isabella carefully kept the token. I'll go right away. Then she looked at me earnestly. Sister, please think carefully. If the princess also has no way. My eyes were firm. Even if I have to enter a nunnery and cut my hair, I won't let them have their way. When mother was young, she once saved the life of Marquis Harrison, the princess's only son. Because of this, the two became close friends. Before her death, mother gave me a jade pendant necklace, saying if I encountered trouble, I could seek help from the princess. Perhaps her words still had some effect with father. Isabella left very quickly, returning that evening with a letter from the princess. I read the letter. My body couldn't help but tremble. The letter said. Not seeing you for days, I didn't know you were forced to this point. Just the world has always been very harsh on women. Moreover, marriage matters must go through parents and matchmakers, outsiders cannot participate. However, I owe your mother a debt, and you grew up under my eyes, so I understand your temperament. I cannot abandon you. I have a way, though it's quite embarrassing to say. My son Alexander is thirty and has never married. But his nature is lazy, not ambitious in his career. I wonder if you would be willing to marry him. Just right now he's not in the capital. Although I'm his mother. Marriage matters are his to decide. If you agree, send someone back. I'll immediately write a letter calling him back to the capital quickly. Spring heard this and continuously pulled at me. Miss, this cannot be. Though Marquis Harrison has good looks, everyone knows he's a libertine who frequents brothels. He hasn't married yet, but already has a teenage illegitimate child by his side. He's also the notorious king of hell in the ministry of justice, cruel, hearted with countless lives on his hands. He's nearly thirty, and no woman in the capital wants to marry him. Miss is so good. How could you marry him? Alexander and I used to play together when we were young. Later, when we grew older, with differences between men and women, mother warned me to keep my distance from him. I had also heard some of what Spring said. But Isabella's eyes lit up. Sister, I think this method isn't bad. I looked at her and agreed. I think the same as you. Help me reply to the princess, saying the princess has already humbled her own son. Marquis Harrison has elegant bearing and is romantically unrestrained. What woman wouldn't admire him? If I can marry the Marcus, my heart would be overjoyed. How could I not be willing? All right, all right, I'll go right away. Spring hurriedly came over with tears. Miss, isn't this just out of the wolf's den into the tiger's mouth? Miss, miss. I gently tapped her nose. Silly girl, how could the Marcus's residence be a tiger's mouth? The princess has always treated me very well. With a mother-in-law as backing, even if I marry into the Marcus's residence, not to mention being the main wife, even as a secondary wife, life wouldn't be too bad. Besides, didn't you always say I would definitely marry higher than Sophia? The status of the Marcus's residence is even higher than the Sterling residence. Marrying into the Marcus's residence is still much better than marrying Lady Vivian's nephew or being sent to a nunnery. If the Marcus is romantically unrestrained, I will let him be as he pleases without interfering or obstructing. Surely he won't hate me. Although I said this, I still felt a bit uneasy in my heart. Marquise Harrison acted very strangely. What if he didn't want to marry me? I said seriously, if he doesn't want to marry me, Spring, will you accompany me to shave our heads and become nuns? Spring firmly answered, Wherever Miss goes, this servant will follow. Even if it's shaving our heads, at least we'll be free. But everything in this world couldn't follow human wishes. Several days later, Lady Vivian's nephew had already arrived and was waiting at the residence. But there was still no response from the princess's side. A group of servants outside my door wanted to rush in and drag me away. I let down my hair with a determined look, pulling out a handful of black hair that fell to the ground. They stood at the door, frightened by me and didn't dare enter. Lady Vivian's face twisted, still standing there stunned. What are you doing? As long as you don't hurt her, let her do what she wants. The group then advanced toward me. Wait a moment. Isabella ran in breathlessly. The Harris and Marquis's residence has sent someone to propose, asking for the eldest daughter of the Chambers family, as wife. Lady Vivian staggered. What? Joy filled my eyes as I ran outside with Isabella. The Marquis's servant held a splendid hairpin in his hand. Our Marquis has important matters and will return to the capital a bit late. He asked me to inform Miss Chambers that he found this hairpin for Miss at his old home. This gift is the betrothal token that our Marquis gives to Miss. I exchanged glances with Isabella. The Marquis hadn't returned yet. I thought to myself, could the princess have deliberately taken out this jewelry to save me? On the contrary, Father's expression was very pleased. He didn't expect someone rejected like me could still be loved by the Marquis. Thinking about the Sterling residence, though also high-ranking, the Marquis was royal family. So he quickly ordered rewards and released him. Wonderful. Both of you sisters can bring glory to the Chambers family. Sophia gritted her teeth. Unexpectedly, sister is still formidable. Marquis Harrison is romantically unrestrained with an illegitimate child. Sister marrying him already has a hair. How truly fortunate. I calmly sat down to admire that imperial jewelry. No need for sister to worry. Mother also had my fortune told before. I'm blessed with children. Father stroked his beard. All right. Look at yourself, disheveled and unkempt. If Marquis Harrison saw you, he would definitely despise you. In the future, both of you sisters will be married daughters of the Chambers family. I will have eternal glory for generations. I held up the teacup and paused. I'm afraid Father is mistaken. Mother only has one daughter me. The Chambers family only has me as the legitimate daughter. Father coughed lightly, his eyes somewhat evasive. When Sophia marries into the Sterling residence as the main wife, being born of a concubine will inevitably invite scorn from society. I had planned to elevate your Lady Vivian to principal wife status. Then, I angrily threw the teacup in my hand to the floor, shards scattering everywhere. I wondered why you wanted to send me far away. So it was to wait until I left to elevate Lady Vivian to principal wife. Lady Vivian fearfully nestled into Father's embrace. Master. Father angrily glared, his whole body trembling. You what kind of behavior is this? She is after all your mother's younger sister. My mother has no such sister. Father, haven't you forgotten when Mother was ill and bedridden? It was this good sister who said she wanted to come serve her. What kind of service turned into serving in his bed? When Mother was critically ill, she was pregnant. Mother was killed by this wretched woman's poison. Back then, you promised Grandmother you would only take her as a concubine. Today you want to make her the principal wife. Don't even dream of it. Lady Vivian cried pitifully. Such injustice, Master. The matter back then has been investigated clearly. Eleanor, how can you falsely accuse me like this? I trembled with anger. Lady Vivian, does Heaven have eyes? Do you really think no one knows what you did back then? Father frowned. That matter has passed for so many years. Your mother wasn't poisoned back then. Her health was poor and she was unlucky. Father, you still remember Mother was your first wife, your bedside companion. This matter I've already decided long ago. It's clearly a joyous occasion worth celebrating. Must you make the house chaotic with chickens flying and dogs barking? No. I took the golden hairpin from my head and stabbed it my throat, drawing blood. Father, if you want to elevate her to principal wife today, then step over my corpse. You wretched child. Marquis Harrison, he loves me deeply but is extremely cruel. If I die here, not only stepmother and third sister, even father's official position will have to be buried with me. Father, think carefully. Are you willing to stake the entire chamber's family's fate on one mere concubine? Father was so angry he almost fainted. You. You haven't even married into the Marquis's residence yet, and you're already using power to oppress me. Today if you don't die, I'll have you beaten to death. I always thought you were gentle and reasonable, not knowing you would deliberately cause trouble so unreasonably. Having said that, father wanted to use family punishment on me. It was chaotic and noisy around me. I watched everyone, Lady Vivian pretending to wipe tears, but with the corner of her mouth curved up in a smile. Sophia's eyes were full of smugness, everything going according to her wishes. She was just waiting for father to drive me out of the chamber's family, and as if waiting for the moment the hairpin would pierce deep into my throat. Only Isabella and Spring worriedly shook their heads trying to stop me. Sister. Miss. Don't do this, it's not worth it. My ears rang but my eyes suddenly brightened. How could I die? How could I let them easily achieve their goals? The golden hairpin in my hand fell to the ground with a crisp sound. I knelt before father, tears falling like rain. Father? Eleanor knows she was wrong. Father and stepmother's words make sense. Sophia is a concubine's daughter. Marrying into the Sterling residence will definitely make others look down on her. Lady Vivian's expression was doubtful, but she still couldn't help curving her lips. Eleanor, it's good you can think things through. If your mother were still alive, she would definitely. My clear eyes interrupted her words. We are all children of the chamber's family, we cannot favor one over the other. Sophia is a legitimate daughter. Isabella is also a legitimate daughter. Lady Vivian's expression stiffened. Isabella wasn't born from my belly. Her birth mother is still alive, how can... I smiled. What's so difficult about this? Just register all of them under mother's name. And brother William of stepmother's, and the child in stepmother's belly too. All registered under mother's name. What are you saying? I looked at her teasingly. Stepmother, what's so surprising? Since ancient times, children born to concubines are raised by the principal wife. Even Isabella was raised by mother for many years. It's just that mother passed away early, leaving stepmother to raise Sophia alone. Today doing this, isn't it the best of both worlds? The chamber's family will no longer have daughters and sons of concubines. In the future, when William marries and Isabella establishes her family, they can all marry into noble families. This can also help our chamber's family last forever. As for stepmother, you can absolutely never sit in mother's position. Lady Vivian never expected I would suddenly change like this, momentarily speechless. She's just a dead person. Father didn't look at her, only staring at me. Father should also think carefully. What I'm saying is the most perfect plan for both sides. If father hurts feelings with the whole maternal family for one small concubine, hurts feelings with the Marquis's residence, I'm afraid in the future. Father looked at me intently, unable to say a word. I wiped the tears from my face and called Sprint to help me back to my room. Father originally valued the chamber's family's career more than life itself. Back then, fearing the power of my maternal grandfather's family, he didn't dare elevate Lady Vivian to principal wife. Today he even more wouldn't dare offend the Marquis's residence for her. Behind me, father summoned the clan elders to uniformly register Sophia Chambers, William Chambers, and Isabella Chambers under mother's name. Even the child in Lady Serena's belly would be registered under mother's name after birth. Father had compromised. Of course, I also wanted to continue being his obedient daughter. He deliberately had both Sophia and me marry out, two daughters, one to the Sterling residence, one to the Marquis's residence, just in time for the double celebration bringing glory. Everything seemed rushed and hasty. The Sterling residence also kept urging, so I felt something was wrong and quickly sent Spring to investigate. Only then did I discover the problem. Sophia's belly already carried Marquis's flesh and blood. Fearing it couldn't be hidden if delayed longer, they hurried to have her marry out. Spring spat. Truly shameless. Not even married yet and already with a big belly. I shook my head. Old Lady Sterling valued women's virtue most highly. Previously, no matter how well I tried to do, she always found ways to criticize and scrutinize me. Later, Sophia also suffered quite a bit. I asked Spring again about Marquis Harrison's side. After checking the date, what did they say? They've informed the princess that the betrothal gifts for the Marquis's marriage have been ready for many years. Even the wedding day isn't urgent. What about Marquis Harrison? What did he say? Spring shook her head. This servant couldn't find out. Seeing my somewhat uneasy expression, Spring quickly said, But the Marquis has agreed to this marriage, which means he's very satisfied in his heart. I pondered and accepted this. I was only afraid he had no way to resist the princess pressure. The only unease in my heart was that I was about to marry Alexander, but I hadn't even seen his appearance once. Unexpectedly, Father kept praising Marquis Harrison. Spring secretly watched for me and returned with eyes full of joy. The betrothal gifts from the Marquis's residence are dozens of boxes more than the Sterling residence. After they left, Lady Vivian angrily made a fuss saying she also wanted to increase Third Mrs. D'Arry, but was scolded by Master. Master said the Marquis's residence originally has higher status than the Sterling residence, and rituals naturally have high and low distinctions. If we did according to her wishes, wouldn't that offend the princess and the Marquis? He, Miss, seeing Lady Vivian so angry, Spring doesn't know how happy I am. Moreover, looking at the groom's appearance, he's even more handsome than Marquis. Before, this servant always thought no one in the world was more handsome than Marquis. Who knew when the Marquis stood there, he looked like an immortal, and was respectful and polite to Master. It seems the Marquis is a very proper person. I accepted this. Weren't you the one who said before that Marquis Harrison was dissolute? If it's really as Spring says, if Alexander is proper, then that's good. My future life probably wouldn't be too difficult. On the wedding day, drums and music outside were lively and joyful. My maternal family didn't know the complications of my marrying Marquis Harrison. Grandmother only pitied my unfortunate fate. A good marriage stolen by my younger sister, and today having to marry a villain. But they had no choice, only advising me that after establishing a family and marrying, I must obey my husband, be filial to my mother-in-law, and serve the princess well. Then suddenly tears fell as they did my makeup. I also wiped away tears and had Spring call Isabella to my side. I took the jade necklace the princess gave me and handed it to Isabella. Isabella continuously refused. This is a gift from the princess to sister. How can I take it? I stubbornly stuffed it into her hand. Between you and me, we're like real sisters. After I marry out, the one I worry about most is you and your birth mother. That Lady Vivian always appears kind and benevolent on the surface, but actually has a vicious heart. Previously we both almost fell into her trap. You must always be on guard against her. Now you're a legitimate daughter of the Chambers family, your status is much nobler than hers, and your birth mother is pregnant with a child. After Sophia marries out, that side definitely won't let things be. You must be careful. In the future, if something happens that you can't handle, take this jade necklace to the Marcus's residence to find me. Isabella's eyes glistened with tears. Sister, don't worry. I will definitely protect the child in mother's belly well. Then she acted coquettishly. Today is sister's wedding day, why are you still thinking about me and mother? It makes me feel bad, sister. I also blushed. After you have your coming of age ceremony and find a suitable young man, I'll ask the princess to act as matchmaker for you. Sister will definitely protect you from being looked down upon by others. All right, all right, you two young ladies. Today is an auspicious day and hour. Don't make tearful faces anymore or others will laugh. We looked at each other and smiled. Spring placed the red veil over my head, with a call to lift the set and chair. I went from this high gate compound to another high gate compound. Under the veil my expression was full of indifference. Outside the send chair, spring was still innocently cheerful. Miss, the Marquis is truly generous. Ten miles of red silk. Our carriages line up from the beginning to the end of the street. Even the trees along the road are tied with red silk ribbons. Firecrackers echo and gongs and drums fill the sky indeed. He values miss extremely. My face showed no emotion because I thought this was originally the face of the princess and the Marquis's residence. So I dared not be careless. And when performing the ceremony, I remembered the etiquette the nanny taught. Finally, the ceremony was completed and I was led into the bridal chamber. Only spring and I remained in the room. Only then did I dare to breathe a sigh of relief. Miss, do you need to eat some pastries to fill your stomach? I still sat up straight and gently shook my head. No need. This is the Marquis's residence. We can't be as casual as at home. If others see, they'll say I don't know propriety. The red candle flickered. I sat properly on the bed. Finally, I heard a call from outside the door. The Marquis is here. What struck my eyes was a pair of dark men's shoes interwoven with gold and silver threads. My palms were slightly damp, my heart beating fast like drums. A jade stick gently lifted my red veil. My lord, someone from the Qingshuan Tower is looking for you about an important matter. A loud call suddenly came from outside the door. The jade stick suddenly paused. Alexander's voice before me lowered with seeming impatience. Today is my wedding day. Just as the veil on my head was about to be lifted, the voice outside still didn't give up. That person said it's an urgent matter. In an instant, the jade stick had completely lowered. That person retreated backward and spoke, Madam, I'll go for a moment and return. I gently said in a small voice, Of course official matters are more important. My lord, please go. Then I heard his hurried footsteps. The door creaked and was closed. Spring angrily ground her teeth. What official business? Miss, the Qingshuan Tower is a place of romance. How could the Marquis abandon miss on the wedding night to go there? I calmly removed the veil from my head. Spring, quickly help me remove these hairpins. Miss, this veil should wait for the Marquis to return and remove it himself. He won't come back, miss. I calmly said, Every time father slept in Lady Serena's room, didn't Lady Vivian use excuses of dizziness or poor health to call father away? When have you ever seen father return in the middle of the night? At that time, I only felt these tricks were too clumsy. Why couldn't men see through them? Now I realize no matter how clumsy these tricks are, there are still people willing to play along. But miss... All right, he's already given me enough face. I should be satisfied. Blow out that swaying candle. It's making me unable to sleep. But miss... I closed my eyes tightly and turned inward. Today I'm tired enough. Even though I had hundreds of thousands of things to think about in my heart, I still quickly fell into sleep. Sleeping until midnight. For some reason my mouth felt terribly dry. Spring, water, tea was immediately brought to my lips. I took a small sip. The water was still warm. On one side, I frowned slightly, feeling fingers slightly rough wiping water from my mouth. I suddenly opened my eyes wide, catching a pair of narrowed eyes full of mischief. I saw that person lazily leaning against the bed, thick eyebrows, high nose, thin lips. The loose wedding robe made him look even more like an immortal. Only the slight dimple on his cheek matched my childhood memories. I opened my mouth slightly, stunned for a long while. My lord. He just calmly looked at me, his expression somewhat annoyed. Ran back desperately in the night, yet my wife was sleeping. She even had someone blow out that candle. Only then did I notice that candle had been relit at some point. I also saw some sweat on his forehead. I quickly got up and knelt on the ground. Please calm your anger, my lord. He suddenly pulled me strongly into his embrace. We were so close I could hear his strong breathing. So close I seemed to see the gentle emotion in his eyes. Suddenly he tightened his grip on my waist. My body instantly stiffened. The nanny had already taught me what to do on the wedding night. My face reddened as I reached to hide his clothes, but he coughed lightly. Just continue sleeping. I was a bit uneasy but saw him lying on the bed fully clothed with his eyes tightly closed. Just a moment later, I heard his steady breathing. I carefully lay down beside him, hands gripping the blanket, my whole body tense. But still saw him lying motionless. I couldn't resist drowsiness and hazily fell asleep. So I didn't see the person beside me open his eyes with curved lips. Why has she become so timid? The Marquis's residence and the Princess's residence were right next to each other. Early the next morning, I went with him to the Princess's residence to pay respects to the Princess. Of course, the Princess found every way to express her love for me, wanting to give me all the best things. She also said if Alexander bullied me, she would definitely stand up to protect me. I smiled weakly. Mother worries too much. The Marquis treats me very well and respects and loves me. The Princess changed the subject with some guilt, speaking to me, You're a good child. It's just that my son is a scoundrel. So, but fortunately Sebastian is an obedient child. His birth mother has also passed away. You don't need to worry too much. She mentioned Sebastian. That was Alexander's illegitimate son. I knew she wanted me to treat him well, so I obediently agreed. I thought Alexander loved that illegitimate son very much. On the carriage, he took the initiative to hold my hand and told me about that illegitimate son. Sebastian. You don't need to worry too much about him. I calmly withdrew my hand. My Lord, since I've married into the Marquis's residence, I naturally know everything. In the future, I will definitely treat him as my own child. He seemed surprised. Know everything. I smiled and confirmed. However, his expression suddenly turned cold, his words somewhat stern. Indeed, she is the legitimate daughter of the chamber's residence. Extraordinary bearing. I remained silent, secretly thinking he truly was unpredictable in mood. I didn't know which sentence had angered him. When we returned to the Marquis's residence, Sebastian was already waiting for us outside. Seeing him, Alexander's expression improved a bit. After I drank the tea or ritual, I gave him the prepared wedding candy pouch. Sebastian was about my age but always called me mother while looking timid and careful in front of me. I heard when he was eight, Alexander brought him back to the residence. He must have suffered much hardship living outside with his birth mother before. Naturally, I felt sympathy for him. But who would have thought? When Alexander went to the ministry, Sebastian stopped me with a completely different expression from before. Did I make father angry? His voice lowered a bit, his appearance not bad, but still far inferior to my sister, pure as snow. Father has never been angry at her place. I advise you to know your position clearly. Father married you because you come from a prestigious family and know propriety and ache at best. Later when father brings sister Snow in, you must generously accept her. Last night, father just heard she had trouble at Qingshuan Tower and abandoned you without caring about anything to go see her. You should know her position in father's heart. Although she's at Qingshuan Tower, she hasn't been tainted. If not for fear of the princess, father would have long ago roamed the road with her. Where would there be room for you to squeeze in? My body stiffened. So it was because of her that he didn't want to consummate with me. Not that he treated me politely, but he wanted to keep himself pure for the person in his heart. No wonder that day on the carriage he praised my extraordinary bearing. It turned out he married me because I was someone who knew propriety and wouldn't be jealous, who could generously accept the person he loved. My expression didn't change. If the Marquise likes her, just bring her in. Just know that you, as a child, care about the elder's affairs in the inner chambers. Seems no one has taught you properly. Today, as the mistress of the Marquise's residence, I naturally must teach you on your father's behalf. You only need to care about matters in the front hall. Don't act like a petty woman all day scheming and fighting with women. What kind of behavior is that? Sebastian was left red, faced by my words, standing for a long time unable to speak. I raised my eyebrows and left. But this time I had completely offended him. Every time we met, he appeared respectful on the surface, but secretly made snide remarks. He told me how Alexander and that Miss Snow loved each other, how deep their feelings were. I just smiled it off. If I had deep feelings for Alexander, I would definitely cry bitterly. But my marriage with him was simply based on need. I only had respect for him. Absolutely no love. He probably felt the same about me. Although he was unpredictable, he wasn't as dissolute and arrogant as outsiders said. On the contrary, he was extremely respectful to me. In the residence, because they knew I was rejected and married here, the servants treated me with some disdain. Originally I didn't want to care, but he established authority for me in the residence, selling all those who dared show contempt for me. It was true he went to Chingshuan Tower every day, but he always returned before dark to have dinner with me. Once I carefully mentioned to him, if he truly liked her, just bring that miss from Chingshuan Tower home. He coldly asked me who told me these things. Then he didn't even eat dinner and went straight to the study. He truly was unpredictable. Clearly I was thinking of his good, if he brought that miss in, he wouldn't need to laboriously run back and forth between two places. But remembering his expression that day, I didn't dare mention it again. He also wasn't like the rumors said, cruel, hearted with countless lives on his hands. Rather, he always liked to stay by my side handling official business with a brush. He was a very good husband. And the princess was an extremely good mother-in-law. My life at the Marquise's residence was much more comfortable and carefree than at home. I thought living like this for a lifetime wouldn't be bad. But before I could enjoy that leisurely life, a bucket of cold water woke me up. Three days later, when returning to my maiden home, Alexander was nowhere to be seen. Spring stood at the door worrying endlessly. Such an important day, why isn't the Marquise here? I stood waiting at the door. Let's wait a bit more. But people from father's side kept urging again and again. It was almost noon and still no sign of Alexander. Let's go. Spring bit her lip as if about to cry. I shook my head at her. Don't cry. When I returned home, Sophia and Marcus had already arrived early. Father saw no one behind me and asked, Why didn't the Marquise return with you? The Marquise has many official matters to handle. Today he probably can't. Before I could finish, father angrily waved his sleeve and left. I told you to learn from your sister and be more yielding. Now just married and already unloved. Sophia proudly rubbed her belly. My stepmother just wanted to discipline her, hit her a few times. Mother and child are safe. This matter should be considered settled. Why make such a big deal? Father pondered for a moment. Bad family matters shouldn't spread outside. Since nothing happened, let's consider it settled. My lord, please release my foolish concubine. I just stood there staring at father. Father, Lady Vivian heard Isabella went to the hunting grounds today, so she deliberately separated people. If I hadn't arranged for midwives early, the result for Lady Serena would have been one corpse, two lives. Isabella didn't just get hit a few times, all that blood on the ground was hers. She almost lost her life. Does father really want to just let her go like this? Just some small family matter, how can it be made pollock? Eleanor, why don't you think for me? If this spreads outside, won't people laugh at me? I pressed my lips tightly together, eyes cold. Before Alexander could speak, I had already knelt on the ground. I, Eleanor Chambers, plead with Marquise Harrison to seek justice for me. First, I accused Lady Vivian of plotting to harm the heir, abusing private punishment to beat the legitimate daughter. Second, I accused Lady Vivian of poisoning to harm the principal wife. Third, I accused Thomas Chambers of harboring and covering up Lady Vivian's crimes, hoping to smooth over and cover up the matter. Father heard these words and immediately raised his hand to hit me, but was caught by Alexander's wrist. Lord Chambers, are you trying to hit my wife in front of me? Alexander helped me up. Since that's the case, I accept Madam's complaint. Someone, take that crazy woman down. I'll take her back for Lord Chambers to interrogate. With that, he pulled me away without looking back. Returning to the Marquise's residence, Alexander directly brought me and Sebastian to the Ancestral Hall. He took a long whip and lashed Sebastian twenty times. I sat above, coldly observing. Sebastian cried out saying he wouldn't dare again, then was carried back by others. I bowed. Thank you, my lord, for today's matter. As for Lady Vivian, I ask my lord to investigate more thoroughly. Mother was harmed by her hands back then, but for many years we couldn't find evidence. You don't need to say more. I'll help you. I knelt before him again. There's one more thing. Between Marquise and me, there truly is nothing. Today he pulled me aside wanting to apologize. He keeps bothering me like this, making me extremely uncomfortable. How could there be any entanglement between him and me? Alexander moved slightly. Today I lost control and anger. Of course I always trust you. It's good that my lord trusts Eleanor. I only ask that after Lady Vivian's matter is concluded, my lord grant Eleanor a divorce letter, allowing Eleanor to leave. His pupils suddenly contracted, showing disbelief on his face. What did you say? Are you angry because I didn't trust you? From now on I... I shook my head. My lord already has someone else in his heart. Why keep me by your side? The time I've been with my lord, though not long, I also know my lord isn't someone constrained by worldly customs. Divorcing a wife means nothing to my lord. Alexander's words were full of urgency. I will protect you. How long can my lord protect me? He turned back and said, I won't let you leave. His eyes carried anger. Eleanor Chambers, I won't let you leave. In the past, no matter what I did, you weren't sad or angry. I thought your temperament was naturally indifferent like that. But today I finally know. It's not that you don't get angry. It's that you fundamentally don't care. When meeting someone you care about, you'll be very worried for them. There are some things I can't explain clearly to you now. But now that I understand your temperament, I'll make you trust me. My face was full of surprise, but I wanted to shake my head in refusal. Moreover, how do you know the person I love isn't you? After saying these words, he turned and left, leaving me stunned behind for a long while. From the ministry's side, because of his intervention, they detained Lady Vivian for dozens of days without releasing her. Throughout the capital, everyone said he and I were unfilial, disloyal, and unrighteous, heartlessly locking a stepmother in prison. Some said someone rejected like me and the cruel Hell King like him were truly a perfect match, both inhuman and without feeling. Father angrily sued him in court. When it seemed Lady Vivian would be released, he brought a pile of evidence and witnesses from when Lady Vivian harmed my mother and presented them to the Emperor. It turned out back then my maternal grandfather deliberately married Lady Vivian to a new imperial scholar. That person was talented and refined, knowledgeable, just from a slightly poor background. Lady Vivian looked down on him for his low status. Both daughters of the Grand Tutor, why should my mother marry the current secretary while she only gets a scholar? Taking advantage of mother's illness, she found opportunities to enter the residence, frequently coming and going, then climbed into father's bed. Mother was both sick and emotionally hurt, stabbed in the back by her own sister. With her strong temperament, mother declared she would send her to the manor. She then continuously poisoned mother's medicine again and again, then sold all the people caring for mother, destroying all evidence cleanly. I was weak and alone with nowhere to turn. Working tirelessly for years, I couldn't find anything. Thinking the evidence had been completely destroyed, who knew Alexander could drag it all out with just one hand? But before I could thank him, the Marquis's residence had already changed. Even the princess was placed under house arrest. After father sued him in court, more than 20 people successively sued him. They said he killed innocent people indiscriminately, holding the ministry's power but not distinguishing right from wrong, deciding people's lives carelessly. The emperor issued an edict imprisoning him. I was extremely worried outside, still clearly remembering what he said that night. I will protect you, trust me. But if protecting me cost his life, then I didn't need it. I went everywhere asking for help, spending quite a bit of money. The princess also asked many places, but no one dared agree. Unexpectedly in the end it was Marquis who appeared. I owe you. In the dark prison, I recognized Alexander at a glance. He was kneeling on the cold wooden beams, his body covered in whip marks and wounds. When he saw me, his breathing became rapid and uneasy, cold sweat pouring from his forehead. He gritted his teeth and asked, Why did you come here? I quickly wiped his face with a handkerchief, my eyes reddening. I'm so sorry. He groaned. I'm afraid now there's more bad than good. I already wrote a divorce letter in the right drawer of the study. Take it and leave. Tears gradually filled my eyes. It's just you overturning a small case. How did things become so serious? Can you keep your life? He shook his head. Probably not. Determination appeared in my eyes. Then how can I leave? I'll go outside to find help. Wait a moment. If I die, can you take care of me before I die? My tears fell even more uncontrollably. Don't say such unlucky things. I'll definitely find someone to help us. I saw his eyes carried expectation and couldn't help adding. I'm your wife. I'll remain faithful to you for life. With these words from you, even if I die, I have no regrets. I hurriedly went outside, so I didn't notice the hint of a smile hidden in his hoarse voice. When leaving the prison, though there were soldiers suppressing on the road, it was still somewhat chaotic. I vaguely felt something was wrong and brought several marshal servants back to the chamber's residence. Indeed, father had also been detained in the palace by the emperor. I then brought Isabella and her mother back to the Marquis's residence, and that same night welcomed the princess to the Marquis's residence. Only at midnight did I learn that the emperor's brother, Prince Yi, had rebelled. Taking advantage of the chaotic situation in the city, a group of troops rose up. They didn't kill civilians or rob decent families, but declared they would rob high-ranking officials. The Marquis's residence gate was also rammed several times. If this continued it would be broken sooner or later. I thought for a moment, this time we could only flee. But where could we flee to? Suddenly my eyes brightened. That place definitely could provide refuge. I quickly ordered Spring to prepare some coarse cloth clothes that servants wear. Everyone change clothes and remove all hairpins. Remember well, don't bring any valuable items. But the princess absolutely refused to leave the residence. Alexander will definitely come save us. Eleanor, let's wait a bit more. But I saw that gate was about to be broken down. Mother, if we don't leave now, we can't leave at all. Seeing there was no more delay, I had to knock her unconscious and ordered two matrons to pull her onto the carriage through the back door. Though it was nighttime, the roads were full of people and carriages. Many were fleeing for their lives like us. Others were taking advantage of the burning houses to loot. The carriage reached a street corner where a group of people were very frightened on the road, mostly women in torn clothes, being surrounded by refugees to rob and assault. I looked at the carriage full of women, gritted my teeth and said, Go faster, don't stop. The carriage driver suddenly said to me, Madam, the miss being surrounded by refugees seems to be Miss Snow from Qingshuan Tower. I pulled the curtain. What? Did you see clearly? This servant saw clearly, it's definitely Miss Snow. I hesitated a bit. Isabella must have seen too, thinking to herself. Sister, don't let her die like that would be best. Drive the carriage. Sister. I removed all the gold, silver and jade jewelry from the princess. Isabella, when the carriage stops later, throw these things down. I'll go out and pull her up. Then I turned to the driver. Later when you see I've pulled her up, immediately raise the whip and drive the horses away. Understand? Yes, madam. Isabella held me, unwilling to let go. Alexander is in prison because of me, his life or death unknown. If I see the person he loves die without saving her, wouldn't that be repaying kindness with enmity? Sister. I sat at the carriage door looking out intently. Isabella, quickly throw down those jewels. As soon as they were thrown out, the crowd frantically rushed to grab them. Seeing an opening, I quickly pulled Snow up. That group instantly gathered again, holding me tightly without letting go. I didn't know where Snow got a dagger from, viciously stabbing them, making them release their hands in pain. I breathed a sigh of relief, finally escaped danger. Isabella called out. Sister, you're injured. It's fine. Nothing serious. Snow looked at the wound on my hand, her body suddenly stiffening in an instant. Madam. Are you all right? I arrived at the courtyard gate and knocked three times. It's me, Eleanor. The door creaked open. Outside the courtyard was an embroidery shop. But inside were more than ten women. As soon as they saw it was me, they quickly welcomed us in. Among them were servants from powerful families, daughters of common people, and many from wealthy backgrounds. They were here for various reasons, some abandoned, rejected, childless, or despised by their families for their appearance or form. They were all women not accepted by society with nowhere to go, so I used money to arrange for them to stay here. Isabella's eyes couldn't hide her delight. Sister arranged such a good villa. I smiled and accepted this. Snow looked at me once, then went around the house checking. At this time the princess also slowly woke up. I stepped forward to apologize. Mother. The situation was urgent then, and I've already offended you. It was my lack of thorough thinking. If not for you, I'm afraid we all would have died there. This place is relatively safe. Let's stay here. Several days passed peacefully, but my heart still felt somewhat worried. So much time had passed, yet the court still hadn't sent troops to suppress the rebels, and there was still no news of Alexander. The rebel army grew increasingly rampant, brazenly breaking into homes during daylight. After they broke into our courtyard and saw only a dozen beautiful women inside, their eyes gradually showed evil intent. I frowned slightly. Sirs, we are just unfortunate women. I heard the rebel army is most righteous, always wanting to protect peace for common people like us. The leader grabbed my hand and laughed loudly. Common people. With skin so sooth and delicate. Do you really think I don't recognize you? While pulling, he wanted to strip my clothes in front of everyone. But unexpectedly, Snow's knife was faster, forcefully cutting off that man's arm. In a short time, the leader went crazy and drew his sword to slash at me. But unexpectedly, his chest was pierced by a sword. I was splattered with blood on my face, frightened and frozen in place. That person held a long sword in his hand, his face showing bloodthirsty desire. When he saw it was clearly me, laughter emerged in his eyes. He hugged me tightly in his chest. Madam, I came late. Snow suddenly knelt down, her face hitting the ground. Master, this subordinate deserves death for almost failing to protect Madam. Then she bowed to me. Thank you, Madam, for saving me that day. The chaos was pacified in an instant. Back at the Marquis's residence, Alexander explained everything to me clearly. It turned out Chingsuan Tower appeared to be a brothel, but was actually an intelligence point arranged by the Emperor. The Emperor had long discovered Prince Yi's ambition to rebel. Alexander was also deliberately imprisoned to act as bait to lure the snake from its hole. My anger flared up a bit, so Snow is just a cover. In prison, did you say those words deliberately to tease me? He coughed lightly. It wasn't deliberately teasing you. I just wanted to see Madam's intentions clearly. He changed the subject. Not only Snow, but that illegitimate child isn't my real son either. He's a prince deliberately arranged by the current Emperor beside me to train his temperament. I was somewhat frightened. Then didn't I hit a prince? Alexander's expression was dejected. Madam really knows how to grasp the key points. He looked at me with a serious expression. When I was young, I fell into water at the hunting grounds. It was you who discovered me in the water. Your mother then saved me. I looked embarrassed, mumbling, so my lord married me out of gratitude. Later I met a girl. She found a hidden place away from others to cry, looking very pitiful. I approached to offer her a handkerchief, but she ran away frightened like a startled bird. Coincidentally, later at the hunting grounds I saw that girl learning to ride and shoot arrows. So thin it was pitiful, falling countless times but still getting up to practice diligently. I then hid my identity and pretended to be a groom to teach her riding. I said in surprise, that was you, Eleanor Chambers. Later I asked mother and learned you were the legitimate daughter of the Chambers residence, but already had an engagement. I could only let go of my feelings. Let people say I indulge in wine and women. Let them say I have an illegitimate child outside. I didn't care. But do you know how happy I was when I received mother's letter? So happy I rode through the night back to the old home, wanting to give you the best face. When returning, I was afraid my ruined reputation would make you regret. But mother repeated your exact words to me. The Marquis is noble as jade, romantically unrestrained. What woman wouldn't admire him? If I could marry the Marquis, my heart would be overjoyed. I repeated these words in my heart countless times. Eleanor, I sincerely propose to you. The person in my heart is also you. I didn't wait for him to finish before running away in panic. I never thought the person in his heart was actually me. No one had ever done so much for me, so I felt very frightened. I kept trying to avoid him, but he still patiently waited outside my villa every day. I had to tell him, Alexander, don't pressure me. I don't know if I like you or not. Give me some more time. Give both of us some more time. I'll wait for you. Five years later, the Emperor personally bestowed this villa as a residence for women. Though I founded it, I no longer needed it. More and more women came to the villa, but the women who came here were never abandoned or rejected again because they were all strong and independent. Most who came here were because of Isabella. Because she rejected Prince Sebastian's feelings in front of everyone. Becoming a famous woman in the villa. She taught women not to look down on themselves, not to feel inferior, and especially not to be constrained by husbands and children. She taught women to live independently like men, not needing to rely on others to live. She taught them to think, to have souls, to become useful people. Eleanor's journey teaches us that self-worth shouldn't depend on others' acceptance. Rejected by her first love for her sister, she faced family betrayal and societal judgment. Yet, she refused to be defined by rejection. Instead of accepting a degrading marriage or becoming a nun, she chose dignity. When Alexander revealed his lifelong love for her, she needed time to trust again. Her story reminds us that true strength comes from within, not from romantic validation. Sometimes the greatest love story begins when we first learn to value ourselves.