Chapter 2

They all believed my usual good temper was just an act.

That I was actually hypocritical and volatile.

Jeremy looked at Vivian. “I’m sorry, Vivian. It’s my fault.”

“I shouldn’t have spoken out. I made Ryan angry, please don’t blame him.”

He hung his head, looking very apologetic.

“It’s not your fault.”

“I got you into this.”

Vivian comforted him, then turned to me, her voice pleading.

“Honey, our issues don’t need to involve other people.”

“Today is Lily’s birthday party, can we please not make a scene? I’m begging you.”

As she spoke, Vivian began to cry.

Her compromise.

My stubbornness.

It was a stark contrast.

All the guests sided with Vivian.

Mr. Henderson took a deep breath, and kindly urged me again.

“Ryan, for all these years, you’ve been diligent, dedicated to our family, and respectful.”

“There’s really no need to make such a mess.”

“If you can provide solid proof that you’ve been wronged, I will personally see that justice is done.”

He offered me an out.

But I didn’t take it. Instead, I remained as cold as ever, stating firmly:

“This divorce is happening.”

Instantly, Mr. Henderson’s face turned ashen.

Vivian, her face streaked with tears, stared at me. “Honey, do you have someone else?”

“Say whatever you want. If you think I do, then I do.”

I said calmly.

“Enough!”

Mr. Henderson finally lost his temper, roaring:

“Ryan Henderson, I’m giving you three days to think about this.”

“Either you sort things out and be a proper husband.”

“Or we’ll see you in court, and you’ll leave with absolutely nothing.”

“Don’t forget, everything you have today, I gave you.”

His words were harsh.

Everyone assumed I would finally relent.

But I turned and walked away.

Outside, Shelly Miller, my former classmate, had been waiting for me for a while.

“I’ve already sent people to Europe.”

“You’ll have answers to what you’re looking into very soon.”

She said with a smile.

“Thank you.”

“In three days, I’ll be facing Vivian in court. I’ll need you to represent me as my lawyer.”

I leaned back in the car seat, utterly exhausted, and pulled out my phone. I found a surveillance video.

It showed Vivian’s beloved teddy bear casually walking out of the side bedroom.

It even danced for the living room camera.

Three days was enough time for me to prepare and let this whole thing settle.