My name is Zhang Xiaofei. I’m a village woman from the remote mountains of Guizhou. Though I know little of the world, I’m hardworking and kind, and the villagers all like me. I was born on this land, where people live off farming, and have watched countless young people leave their homes in search of a better life. Here, I met Jinbao, a lively, outgoing young man who tended to idle away his time. He was often around my house. My parents disapproved of him, but out of regard for our neighbors, they could only put up with him in silence.
I knew what Jinbao wanted from me, but I could never accept his seemingly carefree yet aimless way of life. Still, fate brought us together as husband and wife, and my life changed completely. After we married, Jinbao gradually showed another side of himself. He began to crave money and status, while I, a poor village woman, couldn’t give him the luxurious life he wanted. In the end, Jinbao broke his vows and fell in love with a wealthy heiress. My life became even more difficult, but I have always believed that only by relying on my own hands can I change everything.
