The people of Qi appreciated beauty, gravitating toward beautiful individuals. In this environment of beauty worship, the Thirteenth Young Master of the Lantern Festival became famous for his lifelike beauty portraits.
It’s understandable that there are doubts about my relationship with An Jin. We have been married for over a year, yet he sleeps in the study and often leaves early, returning late. When we do meet, we barely exchange a few words, and our conversations often end in arguments. My parents-in-law likely know about this but pretend otherwise. Que’er, my personal maid, sees everything clearly.
I looked at the slender figure in the painting and whispered, “He resents me.”
Que’er was surprised, as this was the first time I had mentioned my relationship with An Jin to her. Bottling up my feelings has been uncomfortable, but the cause and effect of this matter would take time to explain.
I am used to being lazy and not wanting to talk much, so saying this spontaneously is rare. Que’er stretched her neck, waiting for more, but when she realized I wouldn’t elaborate, she sighed in disappointment.
“I’ll tell you slowly later,” I comforted her. At that moment, the sound of the night watch came from outside, ringing three times.
It was already the third watch of the night. I hurriedly tidied up and returned to the bedroom with Que’er, relieved that An Jin always sleeps in the study; otherwise, I’d have less freedom.
As I entered the bedroom, before lighting a lamp, I smelled a faint hint of alcohol and paused. Que’er reacted quickly.
“My lord,” she said, nudging my elbow. “This servant will retire now.” She looked at me with anticipation before hurrying away, likely afraid I would miss this rare opportunity.
The room became pitch black, and I tentatively crossed the steps, unable to see where An Jin was. As I planned what to say to ease our increasingly cold relationship, I heard a slightly tired voice from the darkness: “Why are you always so late?”
Without thinking, I reflexively replied, “What does it matter when I’m late? You’re not here anyway.”
As soon as I spoke, I regretted it.
