Transcript (en)

Although Mary was not particularly attractive, her friend Tom deliberately served her the most expensive dish. He even introduced her to his fiancé, and the two became friends. Mary began to stick to his skincare routine and underwent strict posture training. Her friend reminded her again and again to stand up straight and walk with elegance, to completely shed that hunched, timid, shrinking manner she used to have. After careful preparation, the transformed Mary made a stunning appearance at her first ball in London. Seeing how much she had changed, her aunt felt truly proud. Remember, Mary, the most important thing is to be yourself. that her stiff movements and racing heart would reveal the feelings she had always hidden. But in the end, her long-suppressed longing won out. Mary accepted, letting herself sink into that brief, almost illusory moment. When the music ended, she gathered her courage and exchanged a glance with the gentleman beside her. But he only smiled politely and turned away. Mary felt a wave of disappointment. Just then, Mr. William Ryder noticed her, walked over, and struck up a conversation. He admitted that he hated balls, because he felt that young ladies were merely flirting and showing off with no true romance involved. However, Mary argued that for many women without family fortunes, such occasions were almost their only chance to change their fate. She added that the freedom of choice was often a privilege reserved for men, and yet the consequences always fell on women. Her words resonated with his own thoughts. Mr. Ryder had grown tired of ladies who only knew how to flatter and please What he truly sought was someone who could connect with him on an intellectual level While dancing William talked about literature exactly Mary strongest subject She completely relaxed and a natural smile appeared on her face The confidence she radiated drew everyone attention Watching her shine in the center of the dance floor, her aunt and her friend couldn't help but feel happy for her. But in Tom's eyes, there was a flicker of something unreadable. After the dance, her friend called Mary aside and reminded her that although Mr. Ryder was charming, he was also very arrogant and didn't seem like the type who would settle down. Mary smiled calmly and explained that precisely because she didn't expect someone like him to fall in love with her. She could interact with him without any burden and enjoy an equal conversation. But happy moments never last long. Caroline had always looked down on Mary. Shortly after arriving at the ball, she threw out a hurtful remark. I heard you were a governess in London, though I didn't think it had quite come to that. Even so, Mr. Ryder still showed interest in Mary and invited her to dinner on Thursday, hoping she would sing a song. Caroline was clearly trying to reopen old wounds. In the past, Mary had felt deeply self-conscious about singing, but now she wanted to prove herself. so she decided to perform a song in front of everyone. However, her ordinary voice did not win applause. Her father even interrupted her in public, making her a laughingstock. Seeing her disappointment, her aunt saw through Caroline's jealousy. You have not been yourself since I saw you talking to Caroline Bingley last night, and she treats you as though you're beneath her to make herself feel good. We do not run and hide from the Caroline Bingleys of this world. We stand our ground. With that support, Mary held her head high and went to dinner. Caroline deliberately switched the seating, squeezing Mary to the very end of the long table, placing her among several elderly guests she didn't even know, while she herself sat at the main table, close to Mr. Ryder. In the past, Mary would have fallen into anxiety, but this time, having experienced being snubbed herself, she had become even more understanding of others. She guided the conversation with kindness and grace, making the overlooked guests feel valued. Her kindness and upbringing were noticed not only by Tom, but also by Mr. Ryder.