The Price of Secrets

The car wound its way through the mountain roads, each turn bringing Li Chen and Madam Tang closer to Yunxi village. As they drove, Madam Tang's eyes kept darting towards Li Chen, a mix of emotions playing across her face. When the first glimpses of the village came into view, nestled among the mist-shrouded peaks, she let out a long, heavy sigh.

Li Chen frowned, glancing at her with concern. "What's wrong?" he asked, his voice gentle but tinged with worry.

Madam Tang's gaze remained fixed on the approaching village, her eyes distant with memories. "It's been years since I came back here, you know," she said softly. "Ever since I got married, I never looked back."

Li Chen's brow furrowed deeper. "May I ask why?" he inquired, sensing a weight behind her words.