Before marrying into the Wei family, Xie Ting'an knew that his wife already loved someone else.
They were childhood friends, devoted to each other. If not for the unrest at the border and that person's marriage alliance abroad, he would never have had a chance at such good fortune.
He was a decree from the emperor, issued to save face for the Wei family, a thorn driven between the two women's love.
Everyone urged him: It isn't easy for a man to make his way in the world. Once married, follow the rules and fulfill your duties as a husband. Don't ask for more.
He accepted with great care. On his wedding night, he was left alone in an empty room. Day after day, he endured a marriage in name only, worn down by the family's rules.
Just as his heart was turning to ashes, the returning Wei Yinlan burst into the inner courtyard and led him out of that devouring household.
In a daze, Xie Ting'an remembered the Flower Festival years ago. She had passed before him in a carriage, dressed in fine silk.
He had been pushed to the back of the crowd and tripped without noticing. But he caught the scent of her perfume, and it shattered his heart.
He looked up. Then and now, he knew he should not, yet he had fallen in love all over again.
[A light women-centered ensemble story about a family, set in a world that worships women's ability to bear children, where men have little power.
This blurb is provisional and may be revised when the story begins, but the overall direction will stay the same.]
Theme: Treasure the people by your side
