Hit an innocent bystander

Silence.

Complete and utter silence.

For a moment, even the wind seemed to hold its breath.

Hua Ling stood frozen, her head still turned to the side, her cheek burning red where the slap had landed.

Her lips trembled, her eyes wide with disbelief, and then—

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

A shriek so loud it could probably be heard in the next province tore through the room!

Her face, once carefully painted with layers of delicate makeup, now bore the imprint of her mother's palm. The stark contrast of red against pale skin was unmistakable. A perfect handprint, glowing like a mark of disgrace.

The smudged foundation left uneven streaks, making her look less like a noble bride and more like a poorly painted opera performer who had just lost a fight with a chicken.

"My face!" Hua Ling screeched, her hands flying up to touch the swelling. Her fingers trembled as she traced the hot, burning mark.