Mrs. Zhong, who kept assuring her she'd prepare a hefty dowry, not only skimmed off the groom's betrothal gifts and engagement money, but also sent the Host off to her marriage empty-handed. Later, she would often come to the Host, crying poor, and trick her out of her salary.
The old widower was a domestic abuser.
His previous wife had been beaten away by him.
The Host was beaten every few days. She would return home crying, hoping her family would stand up for her, but Mrs. Zhong persuaded her, "Every couple has their ups and downs, you just endure it. Your two brothers have a hard time making ends meet too, taking leave costs them salary. If you won't think of your brothers, at least don't add to their burden."
Before long, the Host became pregnant, was beaten to miscarriage, and died from heavy bleeding. Mrs. Zhong and the family made a scene, and the in-laws settled the matter with twenty thousand yuan.
