Shi Fengju writes first
The dragon and phoenix candles burn steadily. Shi Fengju sets down his empty wine cup very carefully, the way a man does when he needs a moment to think. His wedding robes are immaculate. His composure, for once, is not.
“A false couple.” He repeats it slowly, testing it. “For one year. Then a divorce, with a plausible reason, and no one the wiser.”
He studies you: the coronet, the calm face, the clear eyes that don’t drop when he looks at them.
“Why? Can’t wait to leave the Shi family? Is someone else waiting for you?” The words are out before he can stop them. A faint flush rises on his face, and he bows, properly and at once. “Forgive me. That was uncalled for. I spoke without thinking.”
He straightens, merchant’s composure sliding back into place.
“Very well. I accept your terms, and you’ll leave this house well provided for.” A pause. “But I’d like to understand one thing first. What exactly do you intend to do with a year in a family you’ve already decided to leave?”
