A Maid's Life in Ancient Times

Ye Jinqian transmigrated into the lowest-ranking maid in a marquis's household. Meat was rarely seen in her meals, she shared a communal bed with seven or eight others at night, had to heat water at dawn, and couldn't even catch a glimpse of the actual masters.

Unwilling to let someone hold her indenture and marry her off to some low-ranking servant at will, Ye Jinqian began secretly observing the various households and courtyards.

In the rear quarters, the wives and concubines of the three branches of the family were at odds, each vying for control of the household and arguing over their children.

The unmarried young ladies quarreled over jewelry and dresses, competing to steal the show at banquets.

There were also several young masters and noble sons, some spoiled and unruly, others slow-witted and dull.

Every branch had its own dramas, but Ye Jinqian set her sights on Shou'an Hall, where the old madam lived. Although she kept out of the household's affairs, she was still the eldest by generation. If Ye Jinqian could win her favor, get her indenture, and earn some reward money, she could live in peace from then on.

Ye Jinqian prepared a different treat for the old madam every day. In just two or three years, she had become a highly respected senior maid at her side.

That year, Ye Jinqian asked for permission to be released from service and leave the household. While she was at it, she also whisked away a frail young master who had been staying at the marquis's residence.

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Fan Ruyao had never imagined she would marry Cui Haolang.

After all, she was the second young lady of a duke's household, raised in luxury and comfort from childhood. She might be a little spoiled, but if she wasn't marrying into the imperial family, surely she'd at least marry someone of equal social standing, right?

And Cui Haolang? He was just a poor scholar from an undistinguished family, with no official position. In Fan Ruyao's eyes, he had no virtues beyond his handsome, refined appearance. But could good looks put food on the table?!

Unfortunately, marriage had always been a matter of parental orders and matchmakers' words. In the end, Fan Ruyao married him against her will.

After the wedding, Fan Ruyao couldn't be bothered to give Cui Haolang a kind look. She wouldn't even let him into her room. Cui Haolang was focused on his studies and preparing for the imperial examinations, so the two of them lived together in chilly indifference.

Who could have guessed that one day Fan Ruyao would have a dream? She dreamed of Cui Haolang in a crimson official robe, coming and going from the palace. All the other officials, high and low, stood deferentially to the side. What a magnificent sight!

The next day, Fan Ruyao dressed carefully, took a bowl of sweet soup, and went to Cui Haolang's study. Her expression softened, and she smiled brightly. "You may be busy, my dear, but you still need to take care of yourself."

Cui Haolang paused his brush and looked up at her, keeping his expression unreadable as he wondered what this unruly young lady was up to now.

Several months later, Cui Haolang did indeed place third in the imperial examinations and was reunited with Prince Yu, his biological father. His future was dazzling, and for a time, no one could rival his fame.

The noble ladies of the capital all regretted that Fan Ruyao had gotten ahead of them. But then they remembered how arrogant and willful she'd always been, and figured the marriage wouldn't last.

Even Fan Ruyao couldn't help thinking the same. Cui Haolang had always treated her with cool indifference. Perhaps one day he would tire of her completely. In that case, she might as well cut her losses in time. With her family background and looks, Fan Ruyao thought, she wouldn't have trouble finding a better husband.

Having cheerfully made up her mind, Fan Ruyao packed her things and prepared to return to her family home. She would send someone later to discuss a divorce. But as soon as she opened the door, she saw Cui Haolang standing in the corridor. He glanced at the trunks behind her and asked quietly, "Madam, are you planning to use me and then cast me aside?"

January 6, 2025

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