By a Twist of Fate, the Marquis's Concubine-Born Son Marries the County Princess

Wen Zongji, a modern company boss, dies in a car accident and transmigrates into the body of a concubine-born son of the Zhongyong Marquis Mansion. He awakens on his wedding night to Pei Rujing, the County Princess Anhe and niece of Emperor Shun’an. The marriage was forced after the original owner accidentally walked in on Pei Rujing while she was changing, ruining her reputation. In the original timeline, the husband demanded she serve him, leading to her striking him with a wedding scale. Now, Wen Zongji accepts the situation calmly, prioritizing his upcoming Metropolitan Examination over marital duties.

Pei Rujing is initially hostile, refusing to consummate the marriage and demanding separate sleeping arrangements to protect her dignity. Wen Zongji agrees to study in the east wing to avoid disturbing her, a decision that surprises her. During the traditional three-day visit to her natal home, Pei Rujing confronts her father, Duke Pei, who blames her for the scandal rather than offering support. Wen Zongji subtly mocks the Duke, earning the respect of the Grand Princess and Pei Rujing’s brothers. The Grand Princess, worried about her spoiled daughter’s future, secretly has Imperial Physician Hu examine Wen Zongji to ensure he is physically capable of consummating the marriage.

Wen Zongji navigates the complex family dynamics of the Marquis Mansion, where he is an undervalued third son. He reconnects with his birth mother, Concubine Chen, and younger sister, Wen Shuyu, correcting the original owner’s past neglect and cruelty. He establishes a respectful relationship with his elder brothers, Wen Zongren and Wen Zongqi, while maintaining a polite distance from his jealous half-brother, Wen Zongjing. The Grand Princess provides guidance and resources, helping Wen Zongji prepare for the exams while Pei Rujing monitors his progress with a mix of hostility and reluctant care.

The couple’s relationship evolves from mutual suspicion to a tentative partnership. Pei Rujing begins providing Wen Zongji with nourishing soups to improve his health, though she frames it as a condition for his success. Wen Zongji focuses on his studies, utilizing his modern knowledge and the original owner’s diligent foundation to aim for the highest ranks in the imperial examination. The story follows his efforts to rise from a marginalized concubine-born son to a powerful official, all while managing the delicate balance with his high-status wife and the intricate politics of the noble households.