Hong Kong Young Writers Anthologies Fiction Group 3 - 2017 | Page 270

shall be denounced from the family of Yu and treated as nothing but a lowly commoner!”
Rage and restlessness itching her skin. If that was what her parents wanted to play with, then so be it. Without
turning to look back, she said, “Then I shall leave first thing next morning. Consider me gone!”
She stormed back into her room, despite her mother’s frantic protests.
In the safety of her room, she collapsed on her bed, suddenly scared. What would become of her? Her future was
compromised. She hated the fact that she was so dependent on her mother and father. Without them, she was nothing.
How would she survive?
She composed herself. She had gotten the freedom she had always wanted, the independence that had been a
mere dream just moments before. If her comfortable life was the price, then she was more than willing to pay it. A
meaningless life of luxury but restriction was nothing.
The door opened, and Lin braced herself for her parents. Knowing them, they’d probably kick her out right now
instead of letting her stay until the morning.
To her surprise, it was Mei. The girl was holding a bundle in her arms, as she looked down at the floor avoiding
eye contact, as she always did. She handed it to Lin timidly. “I’ve packed your essentials, Mistress,” the girl said.
“Thank you, Mei. And you don’t need to call me Mistress anymore, I’m just a commoner now.” Lin gratefully
took the bundle, aware how much it must’ve cost for the young maid.
Mei seemed to gather her courage before finally managing to whisper, “I really admire your decision, Mi—Lin.
But isn’t this a little reckless? Once outside, how will you fend for yourself? How will you—“
Lin silenced her with a small laugh, realizing how her actions might’ve appeared to be spoiled and bratty to any
poor outsider. “Your concern is appreciated, Mei, truly. But this is what I’ve wanted. To be more than a pretty face.
Maybe you won’t understand…” She sighed. “But I’ll be fine. I’ll survive; I’ve always had.”
She stood up, eyeing her room for undoubtedly the last time. “I think I won’t wait until the morning to leave.
Take care, Mei. And thank you.” She smiled, and casting her long dress off to reveal the loose flaxen shirt and pants of
the working community in one smooth move, she walked out of her room, past the hall until the entrance was in sight.
Her heart jumped. This was it. Once she went out, she would no longer be welcome. She would be nothing, and
nobody would care for her. No more baths, ornate hair accessories, days spent in boredom.
She didn’t regret it; there was no room for regret or doubts now. This match for marriage had been the last straw.
It was past the point of no return.
“Wait!”