I have been married to An Jin for over a year, and except for the wedding night when he spent time in my room, he has always slept in the study. During the day, he leaves early and returns late. Even when we do meet, we barely exchange a few words, and if we do, it often ends in an unpleasant argument. Que’er, who has been my personal maid for so long, naturally sees everything clearly.
I looked at the slender figure in the painting and whispered, “He resents me.”
Que’er was very surprised, as this was the first time I had mentioned anything about my relationship with An Jin to her. However, the cause and effect of this matter would take a long time to explain.
Que’er stretched her neck waiting for more, but when she understood I had no intention of elaborating, she sighed in disappointment.
“I’ll tell you slowly later,” I comforted her. At this moment, the sound of the night watch came from outside the window, ringing three times.
Unknowingly, it was already the third watch of the night. I hurriedly tidied up and returned to the bedroom with Que’er. Fortunately, An Jin always sleeps in the study; otherwise, how would I have so much freedom?
Just as I entered the bedroom, before lighting a lamp, I paused at the faint hint of alcohol. Que’er behind me had already reacted.
“My lord,” she said, nudging my elbow. “This servant will retire now.” She looked at me with anticipation before quickly walking away.
The room was suddenly pitch black, and I tentatively crossed the steps, unable to see clearly 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 the words left my mouth, I regretted them. The words were sour and bitter, like a neglected wife in a deep chamber.
Although I was neglected, I had always prided myself on being an independent and intelligent woman. Now, I had lost considerable dignity.
