The 1970s: Married First, Fell in Love Later Novel

Xue Yue enters into marriage out of necessity, sacrificing her own future to save her brother's life by accepting a dowry of 500 yuan. When He Lang returns home after an extended absence, he discovers the shocking reality of his situation: his room is occupied, his bed has been slept in, and a wife now resides in his home. He Lang is bewildered by this arrangement, unable to comprehend how he became married without his knowledge or consent. He questions whether anyone will address this unexpected turn of events. As time passes, the dynamic between them begins to shift. He Lang eventually approaches his reluctant wife with a practical question about registering their marriage certificate. His wife reminds him of his initial unwillingness to accept the marriage. He Lang vehemently denies this, insisting he never objected and threatening to confront whoever claimed otherwise. Their exchange reveals the growing complexity of their relationship, hinting at changing feelings beneath the surface of their arranged union.