Chapter 4

But when I arrived at the hospital, I realized that today's symposium was nothing but a stage tailor-made for Amber.

The topic was "Diagnosis and Treatment of Difficult Gynecological Cases," with Amber as the main presenter and me as her assistant.

I was made to look like a clown, running errands for her - printing materials, organizing case files, serving tea.

"Dr. Chen, please revise this case analysis report for me. Make sure it highlights my professional expertise."

"Dr. Chen, where's my coffee? Don't you know I need a cup in the afternoon to stay alert?"

"Dr. Chen, have you proofread my speech? I'm representing our hospital, so there can't be any mistakes."

...

In the end, Amber won the competition with her "brilliant" presentation and "unique insights," successfully promoted to chief physician.

She stood on the stage, radiant and eloquent, as if she were the true expert who had devoted years to gynecology.

And I, like an outsider, was arranged in a corner.

Watching her perform, listening to her use the research topics I had studied for years, reaping the applause and acclaim that should have been mine.

I remained silent.

Seeing me still silent after returning home, Lucas thought I was still angry about the symposium.

He approached me with a fawning expression, eagerly massaging my shoulders:

"Claire, don't be angry. Amber just returned to the country and doesn't understand many things."

"As a senior, you should be more understanding. Think of it as maintaining unity in the hospital."

As he spoke, he pulled out an exquisite little box from his pocket. Inside was the pearl necklace I had admired at the mall earlier this month.

In the past, whenever we argued, Lucas would take out a small box with something I liked inside.

Accepting the gift meant no more anger - this had been our unspoken agreement for years.

"I noticed you liked it last time. You're always reluctant to spend money on yourself, but never hesitate to buy clothes for me." Lucas shook his head as he spoke.

I fingered the pearl necklace for a long time without speaking. Lucas was the hospital director, often attending public events, while I...

How long had it been since I had properly dressed up?

Thinking of my reflection in the glass that day, my heart ached again.

"Do you like it? It's to commemorate our 30th anniversary - our pearl wedding."

"Tomorrow is your retirement farewell party. Wear this, and you'll be the most beautiful queen of the evening."

Lucas said, reaching out to help me put it on.

He gently lifted my hair, just like years ago.

At this moment, I couldn't describe the taste in my heart.

"Do I have to go to the farewell party tomorrow?" I asked reluctantly, "I don't want to retire yet..."

"Claire," Lucas turned my shoulders, his eyes full of tenderness, "Your health isn't good. From now on, just be Mrs. Lin."

Mrs. Lin? Really?

I closed my eyes, suppressing the surging emotions, and after a long while, I softly replied, "Okay."

The next day, I got up early, packed a few clothes, and took a cab to the cemetery.

I gently placed the divorce papers in front of my father's tombstone.

Looking at the photo on the tombstone, I choked up.

I never thought I would be as old as my father was when he passed away.

"Dad, from now on, I'll live for myself! I'll seek justice for you on my own!"

Leaving the cemetery, I went straight to the airport.

The German hospital had already arranged accommodation and work for me, just waiting for my arrival.

But just as I was about to board, Lucas's calls flooded in.