"Mei," a familiar voice called out, cutting through the noisy market, "is that truly you?"
———
In the crowded market, Mei walked through bright stalls and lively sounds. Warm air carried the smell of roasted dumplings mixed with jasmine rice. As she looked at displays of spices and silk, a familiar voice called out.
"Mei! Is that you?"
She turned and saw a young woman with a gentle smile and dark hair pulled back, loose strands framing her face. Her bright eyes showed warmth and recognition.
It was Yú Jin.
She stood nearby, smiling with pure joy. Mei's expression softened, and she rushed into her friend's arms. They hugged for a long moment.
"It's been too long, Yú Jin. I've missed you."
"I've missed you too. Where have you been?"
Yú Jin's smile faded as she added gently, "I heard what happened. I'm truly sorry."
Mei lowered her eyes. "I'm managing."
"Have you seen Xiao since you returned?" Yú Jin asked.
Mei froze. She hadn't seen her cousin's body among her family's. How could she have forgotten?
"No… I haven't seen her."
"She's staying in the palace now. You should visit her."
"I will," Mei said.
"Where are you staying?"
"At my family home."
Yú Jin shook her head softly. "You shouldn't remain there, Mei. It will weigh on your heart."
"My home is open to you. You don't have to pay anything or explain anything. Just come."
Mei smiled at her friend's kindness. "You're too kind. I don't want to trouble you."
"It's no trouble at all. We'd be happy to have you," Yú Jin insisted, taking Mei's hands.
"Please, stay with us. We have plenty of space, and you'll be cared for."
Mei hesitated, touched by her sincerity. "If you're sure… then I accept. But only for a short time."
"Good! I'll help you gather your things," Yú Jin said excitedly.
She linked her arm with Mei's. "Thank you. I'm truly grateful."
"There's more news," Yú Jin said as they walked. "I married Liwei."
Mei raised a brow. "Liwei? Liwei the trouble maker?
Yú Jin laughed loudly. "The very same!"
"The same Liwei who pushed me into the pond?"
"And the one we chased across the village because he stole your hair ribbon?" Yu Jin added.
"That one too," Mei admitted, wiping a tear of laughter. "Who knew the bully would grow into a decent man?"
Mei shook her head with disbelief. "We used to team up just to fight him. You swore you'd never speak to him again!"
"Yes, well…" Yú Jin blushed. "People change. He changed. He treats me well, Mei. Truly."
Mei smiled, a real smile this time. "How? Tell me more!"
Yú Jin nudged her playfully. "He apologized for his childhood games."
Mei chuckled. "I want to hear my apology in person."
"You will. He actually wants to meet you. I told him you used to terrify him."
"As I should," Mei said, lifting her chin proudly.
Yú Jin sighed, her smile fading. "A lot has happened since you left… especially with Xiao."
Mei stopped walking. "Xiao? What about her?"
"Well…" Yú Jin hesitated. "After the attack on your home, the palace took her in for a short while. But later, she was sent to live with her father.. Mr. Sha."
Mei's eyes widened.
"Yes," Yú Jin said softly. "People talked. They said he treated her badly. Like she was a stain on his name."
Mei's chest tightened. "Because she was born out of wedlock."
Yú Jin gave a sad nod. "He never let her forget it. And his wife… she made things even worse."
"What did she do?" Mei asked, voice low.
"She gave Xiao the hardest life there. Xiao wasn't even allowed to step into the main hall. They say she slept in a small store room at the back of the house."
Yú Jin's voice wavered. "I wanted to help her, Mei. Truly. But she stopped visiting the village. And when I went to see her, the servants said she wasn't allowed to leave."
Mei swallowed hard, feeling hurt and angry at the same time.
Yú Jin whispered. "People say she tries to act strong so no one pities her."
Mei shook her head slowly. "I should have been there for her."
Yú Jin slipped her hand into Mei's. "You're here now. That matters."
They walked a few steps in silence before Mei asked, "What does she do in the palace?"
"Well, word spread that the Empress took notice of her talent with the brush. She paints beautifully now. They say it brings her some peace."
"That sounds like Xiao," Mei whispered.
Yú Jin laughed again, squeezing her arm. "I'm really glad you're here"
"Me too. And I'll go see Xiao soon. I promise."
Yú Jin nodded. "Good. She needs someone who loves her… and she always loved you most."
Mei exhaled deeply.