Xu Zhiyue is the daughter of a merchant, clever and decisive, valuing profit over affection. Her only desire is to avenge her father. Patiently plotting and relying on her wit, she advances step by step until she finally gets her revenge. Her bodyguard, Yang Yi, loves and protects her, risking his life to stay by her side again and again. He keeps his deep feelings hidden, while Zhiyue sees him only as a dependable older brother and never suspects a thing.
After her revenge is complete, Prince Jing, Gu Rujun, a powerful figure at court, admires her spirit and seeks her hand with extravagant gifts chosen to suit her tastes. Though their families are worlds apart in status, they live in harmony after marriage, enjoying a peaceful life together.
Before long, Gu Rujun’s former beloved returns, using their past relationship to force him to choose between his old love and his wife. The turmoil reveals to Gu Rujun that he has long since fallen for Xu Zhiyue. He resolutely cuts ties with his past and devotes himself to his beloved wife alone.
The upheaval of the troubled times is not yet over. When danger strikes, Yang Yi gives his life to protect Xu Zhiyue, falling in her place and staining the earth with his blood. At last, he pays for a lifetime of unrequited love with his life. Only then does Xu Zhiyue understand how deep a love lay beneath his silent devotion.
A true female protagonist story, with a tightly woven plot and fluent writing.