Ji Maiqiu is forced by her father to marry Kang Chuanlu in exchange for an 800-yuan bride price. She escapes to the provincial capital with her 15-year-old younger sister, Maidong. During the day, she washes dishes, and at night, she learns sewing to support her sister's return to school. When her family back home demands money for the marriage and arranges another engagement for Maidong, Maiqiu repeatedly stands up to them. Eventually, their father calls off the engagement and returns the money. The sisters finally establish themselves in the provincial capital: Maidong continues her education, while Maiqiu earns a living through her sewing skills.