Wasn’t It a Political Marriage? Why Is Lord Pei So in Love?

Jiang Shiyuan, the orphaned daughter of a legendary military couple, spent a decade pining for Shen Luchu, a brilliant scholar from a noble marquis family. Her devotion was met with disdain; on her eighteenth birthday, she overheard him call her disgusting and revolting. Shattered, she abruptly ended their engagement and agreed to marry Pei Ziye, the unruly and carefree heir to the powerful Pei clan, a match arranged by her aunt, the Imperial Consort. The Pei family, the most influential noble house in the capital, accepted the union swiftly, with Pei Che, the stern and accomplished Grand Tutor, handling the negotiations. Jiang Shiyuan viewed this marriage as a strategic alliance to support her cousin, Xie Jinghuai, who lacked political backing despite his military prowess.

Pei Che, known for his strictness and icy demeanor, became an unexpected ally. During their initial meeting, he displayed a surprising warmth, complimenting her hobbies and offering doubled betrothal gifts. Jiang Shiyuan, initially intimidated by his authority, began to see him as a protective figure who could shield her from future mistreatment. Meanwhile, Shen Luchu, though outwardly indifferent, felt a growing sense of unease. He attempted to retrieve a sachet Jiang Shiyuan had gifted him, now in the possession of Su Liluo, a rival who had stolen Jiang Shiyuan’s affection and status. When Su Liluo provoked Jiang Shiyuan at a banquet, Jiang Shiyuan responded with sharp wit and cold indifference, publicly humiliating Su Liluo and rejecting Shen Luchu’s demand for an apology.

The turning point arrived when Shen Luchu, unable to accept Jiang Shiyuan’s rejection, sent his servant Moyu to summon her. Jiang Shiyuan firmly refused, stating she was getting married and advising him to mind his manners. This defiance shocked Shen Luchu, who had always taken her devotion for granted. He dismissed her words as a ploy to gain his attention, confident she would eventually beg for forgiveness. However, Jiang Shiyuan remained resolute, focusing on her preparations for the wedding and forging a friendly relationship with Pei Ziye’s cousin, Pei Zanxue, and Ye Wanning, the daughter of the Marquis of Ningde.

Pei Ziye, initially perceived as a frivolous playboy, proved to be considerate and respectful. He escorted Jiang Shiyuan home safely and engaged in light-hearted conversations, revealing a genuine interest in understanding her. Jiang Shiyuan, in turn, appreciated his sincerity and prepared a return gift of rare incense. Their interactions were marked by mutual respect and growing comfort, contrasting sharply with the toxic dynamic she had shared with Shen Luchu. Shen Luchu’s frustration mounted as Jiang Shiyuan continued to ignore his invitations, leading to a tense standoff between the two families.

As the wedding date approached, Jiang Shiyuan’s life transformed. She embraced her new identity as the future wife of the Pei clan, finding joy in simple pleasures and meaningful connections. Her aunt’s support and the Pei family’s acceptance provided her with the stability and dignity she had long lacked. Meanwhile, Shen Luchu struggled with his ego and unacknowledged feelings, unable to comprehend why Jiang Shiyuan would choose a man like Pei Ziye over him. The story culminates in Jiang Shiyuan’s decisive break from her past, symbolizing her empowerment and readiness to forge a new path independent of societal expectations and past grievances.