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He Suddenly Wanted A Divorce On New Year\u2019s \u2014 I Smiled, Readily Agreed, And Gave Up Both Our Children<\/p>\n
As the holidays drew to a close, my husband suddenly brought up divorce. I readily agreed and even gave up custody of our two children.<\/p>\n
On the night of December 28th, as Michael pushed the divorce agreement in front of me, the beef stew he loved was still simmering in the kitchen. Our two children were in the living room watching cartoons, their laughter seeping through the crack in the door. His expression was as calm as if he were discussing what to get at the grocery store tomorrow, not ending our twelve\u2013year marriage.<\/p>\n
\u201cKate, let\u2019s get a divorce. I\u2019ll take the two kids. The house is yours, and I\u2019ll give you another $100,000 in compensation.\u201d
\nHe said the words so smoothly and naturally that it was obvious he had rehearsed them many times. I picked up the pen and signed my name on the agreement without even looking at the specific clauses.\u201cFine. All I want is my freedom.\u201d
\nMichael was stunned. All the persuasion, explanations, and reassurances he had prepared were now useless. He would never know that I had been waiting for him to say those words for three whole years.Disclaimer: This story is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to actual events, people, or places in the United States or elsewhere is purely coincidental.<\/p>\n
Kate brought the last dish to the table just as the clock on the wall pointed to exactly 7:00 p.m. Roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, and saut\u00e9ed green beans with garlic\u2014 all favorites of her husband Michael and their children.<\/p>\n
\u201cDinner\u2019s ready,\u201d she called out to the living room.<\/p>\n
Leo, their eight\u2013year\u2013old son, and Mia, their six\u2013year\u2013old daughter, raced to the table and climbed into their designated seats. Michael slowly emerged from his home office, still holding his phone, his brow slightly furrowed as he looked at the screen.<\/p>\n
\u201cDid you wash your hands?\u201d Kate asked the children.<\/p>\n
\u201cYes,\u201d the two children chorused.<\/p>\n
Michael sat down at the head of the table, placing his phone beside him. Kate served him a piece of chicken and then gave the children more food. She had been doing this for twelve years. It had become muscle memory.<\/p>\n
\u201cDad, are we going to Grandpa and Grandma\u2019s for New Year\u2019s?\u201d Leo asked as he ate.<\/p>\n
\u201cYes, we\u2019ll go over on New Year\u2019s Day,\u201d Michael said, taking a bite of potato. \u201cDid Mom buy you new outfits?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYes,\u201d Mia chimed in. \u201cMom bought me a sparkly red dress. It\u2019s so pretty.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate smiled at her daughter. \u201cWear it to Grandpa and Grandma\u2019s. They\u2019ll definitely love it.\u201d<\/p>\n
The atmosphere at the dinner table was relatively harmonious. Michael asked a few questions about the children\u2019s schoolwork and Kate reported on the progress of the holiday shopping. The children chattered about fun things that had happened at school. Outside, in their quiet American suburb, houses were already glowing with holiday lights, signaling another New Year approaching.<\/p>\n
This was Kate\u2019s life. Married for twelve years, a stay\u2013at\u2013home mom for eight of them, her life revolved around her husband, her children, and the house. She got up at 6:00 a.m. every day to make breakfast, drive the children to school, buy groceries, cook, clean, pick up the children from school, help with their homework, prepare dinner, and put the children to bed. Day after day, it was the same repetitive cycle.<\/p>\n
After dinner, Michael went into his office as usual, saying he had to deal with work. Kate cleared the dishes, and the two children helped wipe the table. This was a habit she insisted on cultivating, even though they often left streaks everywhere.<\/p>\n
The sound of the dishwasher filled the kitchen. Kate wiped the counters mechanically, her gaze passing through the window to the thousands of lights in the high\u2013rises across the way. Behind each light was a family, a story. Some were happy, some were not. Most, like hers, were neither particularly good nor particularly bad\u2014 just getting by.<\/p>\n
\u201cMom, can I watch a show for a little while?\u201d Mia ran in and asked, looking up with her small face.<\/p>\n
\u201cHave you finished your reading homework?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYes. Leo helped me with the hard words.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate dried her hands. \u201cYou can watch for half an hour. You have to take a bath and be in bed by nine.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cOkay!\u201d<\/p>\n
Mia ran back to the living room happily.<\/p>\n
Kate finished cleaning the kitchen and went to the laundry room to fold the clothes. The December wind outside was bitingly cold, and the towels that had been hanging on the line were stiff. She brought them in, warm from the dryer and smelling faintly of cold air\u2014 Michael\u2019s dress shirts, the children\u2019s fleece jackets, her own yoga pants. All the clothes were mixed together, just like this family, seemingly integrated on the surface, but in reality, each had its own texture and purpose.<\/p>\n
At 9:00, Kate promptly urged the children to take a bath. Leo could already wash himself, but Mia still needed help. The bathroom was steamy, and her daughter\u2019s small body was soft and warm. Kate carefully lathered her with soap.<\/p>\n
\u201cMom, why is Dad always in his office?\u201d Mia suddenly asked.<\/p>\n
\u201cDad has to work.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cBut Khloe\u2019s dad doesn\u2019t work at home. Khloe said her dad plays Legos with her after work.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate\u2019s hands paused for a moment. \u201cEvery dad\u2019s work is different,\u201d she said gently.<\/p>\n
Mia seemed to half understand and was soon distracted by the bubbles.<\/p>\n
After blow\u2013drying the children\u2019s hair, telling them a bedtime story, and tucking them in, it was almost 10:00. Kate gently closed the door to the children\u2019s room and stood in the hallway, taking a deep breath. Only at this time of day did she truly have her own time. Even though it was only a few short hours, and even though she usually used it to tidy up the house and prep for the next day, at least the house was finally quiet.<\/p>\n
Michael was still in his office. Light shone from under the door and she could faintly hear him talking on the phone. His tone was gentle, with a hint of a smile. It wasn\u2019t the perfunctory smile he usually had for her and the children, but a genuinely happy one.<\/p>\n
Kate stood at the door for a few seconds, but ultimately did not knock. She turned and went into the master bedroom.<\/p>\n
From the bottom drawer of the nightstand, she took out a journal. The black Moleskine cover was worn at the edges. It had been a gift from Michael the year they got married. At the time, he had said, \u201cKatie, from now on, write down whatever is on your mind in here. When we\u2019re old, we can look back at it together. It\u2019ll be fun.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate opened the journal. It was filled with densely written words, but they were not sweet nothings. They were records of accounts, plans, and clear\u2013headed self\u2013dialogues.<\/p>\n
The latest page read:<\/p>\n
\u201cDecember 19, 2025. Three months left until the goal. Keep going.\u201d<\/p>\n
She picked up a pen and added a line below:<\/p>\n
\u201cEverything is normal today. He took two calls tonight, avoiding me both times. Mia asked why Dad doesn\u2019t play with her. I was at a loss for words.\u201d<\/p>\n
After writing, she put the journal back in its place and covered it with a few books. Then she went to the bathroom to wash up, changed into her pajamas, and lay down on the bed.<\/p>\n
Their wedding photo still hung above the headboard. In the photo, she was twenty\u2013four years old, with a brilliant smile and eyes full of light. Michael had his arm around her shoulder, also looking blissful. Twelve years had passed and the photo had faded, just like their love.<\/p>\n
Kate turned off the lamp and lay in the dark with her eyes open. She heard the office door open, heard Michael\u2019s footsteps, and heard him go to the guest bathroom to wash up. They had been sleeping in separate rooms for three years. The reason had been that Michael worked late and was afraid of waking her.<\/p>\n
The guest room door closed gently.<\/p>\n
Kate turned over and closed her eyes. She didn\u2019t need to check his phone to know that Michael was definitely texting some woman at this moment\u2014 maybe the one named Jessica, or maybe someone else she didn\u2019t know about.<\/p>\n
Three years ago, she had discovered the ambiguous texts on his phone, the unfamiliar perfume on his shirt, and the sudden increase in his late nights at the office and on weekends. She had confronted Michael. He had explained that it was a colleague, a work requirement, and that she was overthinking it.<\/p>\n
Kate chose to believe him. Or rather, she chose to pretend to believe him, because at that time she had no job, no income, and no way out. Their two children were still small, and she couldn\u2019t let them lose their \u201ccomplete\u201d family.<\/p>\n
But a person pretending to be asleep will eventually wake up.<\/p>\n
A year ago, she began to change quietly. She enrolled in an online accounting certification program and studied every night after her family had gone to sleep. She reconnected with her old college friends to inquire about job opportunities. She even started running on the treadmill and lost the baby weight she\u2019d never quite shed.<\/p>\n
These changes were very small, and Michael didn\u2019t notice at all. In his eyes, Kate was still the meek and obedient housewife who couldn\u2019t do anything but take care of the children and the house.<\/p>\n
And that was exactly what Kate wanted.<\/p>\n
The sound of the wind outside the window grew louder. The weather forecast said it would snow tonight. Kate thought about the gifts she needed to bring to her in\u2013laws\u2019 house for New Year\u2019s, the brunch she needed to prepare, and the gift cards for the kids. Thinking of these ordinary details, she slowly fell asleep.<\/p>\n
The next day was December 29th.<\/p>\n
Kate got up at 6:00 a.m. to prepare breakfast. Michael was up early for once, sitting at the dining table, looking at his phone, his expression somewhat absent\u2013minded.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ve got all the gifts for your parents\u2019 house ready,\u201d Kate said, placing a plate of scrambled eggs in front of him. \u201cI bought a nice bottle of Scotch for your dad and a cashmere scarf for your mom. I\u2019ve also prepared the gift cards for the kids.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cMm, okay,\u201d Michael said without looking up.<\/p>\n
\u201cDid you sleep well last night?\u201d Kate asked, pouring herself a glass of orange juice.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt was okay.\u201d Michael finally looked up at her, his eyes somewhat complicated. \u201cKate, tonight after the kids are asleep\u2026 let\u2019s talk.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate\u2019s hand paused. \u201cTalk about what?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019ll talk about it then.\u201d Michael stood up. \u201cI\u2019m going to the office to take care of some things first. I\u2019ll be back this afternoon.\u201d<\/p>\n
He hastily finished his breakfast, put on his coat, and left.<\/p>\n
Kate stood by the window, watching his car drive out of the subdivision and disappear into the morning mist. She had a feeling that what was coming was finally coming.<\/p>\n
Sure enough, that night after the children were asleep, Michael knocked on the master bedroom door. He was holding a folder, his expression deliberately serious.<\/p>\n
\u201cSit,\u201d he said, pointing to the small armchair by the window.<\/p>\n
Kate sat down, her hands on her knees, adopting a submissive, listening posture. This was the \u201cwife posture\u201d she had perfected over many years, one that always put Michael at ease.<\/p>\n
\u201cKate, we\u2019ve been married for twelve years,\u201d Michael began, his tone heavy. \u201cYou\u2019ve worked hard all these years taking care of the kids and the household. I know that.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate didn\u2019t speak, waiting for him to continue.<\/p>\n
\u201cBut\u2026\u201d Michael took a deep breath. \u201cI feel that our marriage has problems. We have nothing in common to talk about anymore. Every day, besides the kids and the house, we hardly say a word. A marriage like this is torture for both of us.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate lowered her eyes.<\/p>\n
\u201cSo\u2026\u201d Michael handed her the folder. \u201cThis is a divorce agreement I had drawn up. Take a look. The terms are very generous. The house is yours, and I\u2019ll give you another $100,000 in compensation. I\u2019ll take the two kids. After all, I have a stable job and income, and I can give them a better life and education.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate took the folder but didn\u2019t open it. She had known this day would come. She just didn\u2019t expect it to be just a few days before New Year\u2019s.<\/p>\n
\u201cWho is she?\u201d she asked, her voice calm.<\/p>\n
Michael was taken aback for a moment. \u201cWhat woman?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThe woman who made you decide to divorce,\u201d Kate raised her head and looked straight at him. \u201cJessica, or someone else I don\u2019t know about?\u201d<\/p>\n
Michael\u2019s face changed slightly. \u201cThat\u2019s not important. The important thing is that we have no feelings for each other anymore. Continuing to be together will only hurt both of us. Kate, you\u2019re still young. With the money and the house, you can start a new life.\u201d<\/p>\n
Such familiar lines. Kate could almost recite them from memory. On TV, in movies, and in real life, when men want a divorce, they always use this set of excuses \u201cfor your own good,\u201d to \u201cset you free,\u201d to \u201clet you start a new life.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cDo the kids know?\u201d she asked.<\/p>\n
\u201cNot yet. I wanted to talk to you first and then tell them slowly,\u201d Michael said, his tone softening. \u201cKate, I know this is hard for you, but it\u2019s better to make a clean break. We should both pursue true happiness.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate opened the divorce agreement and quickly scanned it. The terms were indeed generous. The house was worth about $500,000, plus $100,000 in cash. For a stay\u2013at\u2013home mom who hadn\u2019t worked in twelve years, it was, on the surface, more than generous.<\/p>\n
Custody of the children would go to Michael, with visitation rights for her twice a month and the option to have them stay with her for a period during the summer. Alimony was a one\u2013time payment, with no further entanglement.<\/p>\n
It was very clean, very neat, very much in Michael\u2019s style.<\/p>\n
\u201cDo your parents know?\u201d Kate asked.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ll explain it to them,\u201d Michael said. \u201cDon\u2019t worry, I won\u2019t say anything bad about you. I\u2019ll just say we grew apart and separated amicably.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate nodded and picked up the pen from the nightstand.
\nMichael clearly hadn\u2019t expected her to be so agreeable. The persuasive words he had prepared were stuck in his throat.
\n\u201cAren\u2019t you going to think about it?\u201d he asked.\u201cThink about what?\u201d Kate looked at him. \u201cThink about how to win back a man who no longer loves me? Think about how to maintain a marriage that is already over?\u201dMichael was speechless.<\/p>\n
Kate signed her name on the agreement, her handwriting neat and clear.<\/p>\n
\u201cMichael, I have only one request,\u201d she said. \u201cThrough the New Year\u2019s holiday, we\u2019ll still act as usual in front of the kids. After the holidays, we\u2019ll tell them and go through the procedures. I don\u2019t want the children\u2019s holiday to be unhappy.\u201d
\nMichael was visibly relieved. \u201cOf course, of course. That\u2019s what I was thinking too.\u201d\u201cAlso,\u201d Kate added, \u201cduring this period, please continue to live at home. We can sleep in separate rooms, but don\u2019t act abnormally in front of the children.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cOkay, I promise.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate handed the signed agreement back to him.<\/p>\n
\u201cThen that\u2019s it. You should get some rest. We still have to go to your parents\u2019 house on New Year\u2019s Day.\u201d<\/p>\n
Michael stood there with the agreement in his hand, as if he wanted to say something else, but Kate had already turned around and started straightening the duvet, a clear gesture of dismissal. He ultimately said nothing and left the room.<\/p>\n
After the door closed, Kate stood still for a long time. Then she walked to the closet, opened the bottom drawer, and took out the black journal. She turned to a new page and wrote:<\/p>\n
\u201cDecember 29, 2025. He proposed a divorce. I signed. The plan is in motion. The countdown begins.\u201d<\/p>\n
After writing, she put the journal back in its place, turned off the light, and got into bed. In the darkness, the corners of her mouth turned up slightly.<\/p>\n
For three years, this was the day she had been waiting for.<\/p>\n
On December 31st, New Year\u2019s Eve, Kate started bustling about early in the morning, putting out festive decorations, chilling champagne, and preparing the ingredients for the evening\u2019s dinner. Outside, the American flag on the neighbor\u2019s porch stirred in the winter wind, a small reminder that this was just another holiday season in a typical U.S. neighborhood.<\/p>\n
As they had agreed, Michael was more attentive than usual. When he was helping to hang some fairy lights in the family room, he even took the initiative to talk to her.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe left side is a little crooked, a little higher,\u201d Kate said, directing Michael to adjust the position of the lights.<\/p>\n
Their hands accidentally touched and he recoiled as if he had been electrocuted. Kate, on the other hand, looked completely natural.<\/p>\n
\u201cOkay, that\u2019s good,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
The children were playing a board game in the family room, their laughter crisp. The lively sounds of the neighbors\u2019 celebrations also drifted over from the cul-de-sac. The entire subdivision was filled with a festive atmosphere.<\/p>\n
\u201cMom, Grandma\u2019s on the phone!\u201d Mia ran over holding Kate\u2019s cell.<\/p>\n
Kate took the phone. \u201cMom, happy New Year\u2019s Eve. We\u2019ll be over tomorrow afternoon. Yes, we\u2019re having dinner at our place tonight. You guys just come over. Okay, drive safe.\u201d<\/p>\n
After hanging up, she glanced at Michael. He was looking at his phone again, his brows slightly furrowed, his fingers typing quickly. It wasn\u2019t hard to guess that he was explaining to that woman why he couldn\u2019t spend New Year\u2019s Eve with her.<\/p>\n
Kate turned and went back to the kitchen to continue preparing the ingredients. The knife rose and fell on the cutting board, making a rhythmic sound. In her mind, she was silently taking stock. The accounting certification exam was in a month. She had already sent her r\u00e9sum\u00e9 to three companies. She had saved $15,000 in a secret account, all squirrelled away little by little from the household expenses over the years.<\/p>\n
It wasn\u2019t a fortune, but it was much better than three years ago. Three years ago, she could do nothing but cry and beg.<\/p>\n
At noon, her in\u2013laws arrived.<\/p>\n
Michael\u2019s father was a retired history professor, and his mother was a homemaker\u2014 a typical traditional American family. They were quite satisfied with Kate, mainly because she managed the household well and had given them a grandson and a granddaughter.<\/p>\n
\u201cCatherine, you\u2019ve worked so hard making all this food,\u201d her mother\u2013in\u2013law said politely, though her eyes were critically scanning every corner of the living room.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s my pleasure,\u201d Kate said with a smile, pouring coffee. \u201cDad, Mom, have some coffee.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWhere\u2019s Michael?\u201d her father\u2013in\u2013law asked.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe\u2019s in his office dealing with work. He\u2019ll be out in a minute,\u201d Kate said.<\/p>\n
As she spoke, Michael came out, putting on a gentle and filial mask.<\/p>\n
\u201cDad, Mom, you\u2019re here. Was the traffic bad on the way?\u201d<\/p>\n
The family sat in the living room and chatted. The topics were nothing more than the children\u2019s school, work, and recent news about relatives. Kate served drinks and snacks on the side, interjecting a few words from time to time, playing the role of the perfect daughter\u2013in\u2013law.<\/p>\n
She noticed that her mother\u2013in\u2013law was wearing a new bracelet, a very nice one.<\/p>\n
\u201cMom, that bracelet is beautiful. Is it new?\u201d Kate asked casually.<\/p>\n
A smug smile appeared on her mother\u2013in\u2013law\u2019s face. \u201cMichael bought it. He said it\u2019s from Tiffany\u2019s. I don\u2019t really know.\u201d<\/p>\n
Michael quickly chimed in. \u201cI saw it on a business trip last time and thought it would suit Mom, so I bought it.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate smiled and nodded, but in her heart, she was calculating. That bracelet must have cost at least a few thousand dollars. Michael had never bought her such expensive jewelry. For her last birthday, he had given her a sweater from Kohl\u2019s, bought on sale online.<\/p>\n
She said nothing and continued to peel apples and arrange the fruit platter.<\/p>\n
The New Year\u2019s Eve dinner was very sumptuous, with a full table of dishes. Kate made prime rib, scalloped potatoes, roasted asparagus, and a large salad. Michael opened a bottle of red wine and poured a little for everyone.<\/p>\n
\u201cHere\u2019s to a happy new year for our whole family, good health, and all the best,\u201d he said, raising his glass.<\/p>\n
Everyone clinked glasses and said, \u201cCheers.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate looked at this scene and suddenly felt it was absurd. This family was clearly falling apart; just two days ago, this man had handed her a divorce agreement, and now they were sitting together for a reunion dinner.<\/p>\n
But she smiled very naturally, serving her in\u2013laws, cutting up food for the children, and topping off Michael\u2019s wine glass. Her acting was superb, flawless.<\/p>\n
After dinner, Michael played chess with his father, and her mother\u2013in\u2013law watched the New Year\u2019s Eve specials on TV. On the screen, the countdown celebrations in Times Square filled the room with light. Kate cleaned up the kitchen. The sound of the dishwasher masked the laughter and conversation in the living room.<\/p>\n
She stood alone at the sink, wiping down the counters.<\/p>\n
\u201cMom, I\u2019ll help you,\u201d Mia ran in.<\/p>\n
\u201cNo need. Go watch TV with Grandma,\u201d Kate said, patting her daughter\u2019s head.<\/p>\n
\u201cI want to stay with Mom.\u201d Mia leaned against the counter. \u201cMom, you made so much food today. Are you tired?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cNot tired,\u201d Kate said. \u201cAs long as you\u2019re happy, Mom is not tired.\u201d<\/p>\n
This was half true. She was tired, but she hadn\u2019t known what true happiness was for a long time.<\/p>\n
After cleaning up the kitchen, Kate cut some fruit and brought it out. Her mother\u2013in\u2013law was talking about her niece.<\/p>\n
\u201cShe\u2019s divorced and has a child. It\u2019s so hard,\u201d her mother\u2013in\u2013law sighed. \u201cI tell you, women shouldn\u2019t get divorced easily. It\u2019s always the woman who suffers.\u201d<\/p>\n
This was clearly directed at Kate.<\/p>\n
In the traditional view, a divorced woman is a failure, especially a housewife with no job.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou\u2019re right, Mom,\u201d Kate agreed. \u201cSo women should have their own careers and not rely entirely on men.\u201d<\/p>\n
Her mother\u2013in\u2013law was taken aback, not expecting her to say that. Michael also glanced at her, his expression complicated.<\/p>\n
\u201cCatherine has a point,\u201d her father\u2013in\u2013law interjected. \u201cBut taking care of the family is also an important job.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate smiled and didn\u2019t say any more. She glanced at the clock on the wall. It was almost 11:30 p.m.\u2014 time for the countdown.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ll get the champagne ready,\u201d she said, standing up.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ll help you,\u201d Michael also stood up and followed her into the kitchen.<\/p>\n
With the door closed, only the two of them were left in the small space.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat Mom said just now, don\u2019t take it to heart,\u201d Michael said in a low voice.<\/p>\n
\u201cI won\u2019t,\u201d Kate said as she started getting out the glasses. \u201cShe\u2019s right. It\u2019s not easy for a divorced woman.\u201d<\/p>\n
Michael was silent for a moment. \u201cKate, I know I\u2019ve made mistakes, but feelings can\u2019t be forced.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI understand.\u201d Kate arranged the glasses on a tray. \u201cYou don\u2019t have to explain. I understand everything.\u201d<\/p>\n
Her calmness made Michael uneasy. The crying, nagging, and bargaining he had expected never happened. Kate was as calm as if she had been prepared to accept all of this long ago.<\/p>\n
\u201cAfter the holidays, I\u2019ll go through the procedures as soon as possible,\u201d he said. \u201cI won\u2019t give you less money or the house.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cOkay,\u201d Kate said. \u201cYou go be with your parents. I can handle it here.\u201d<\/p>\n
Michael stood there for a few seconds and finally went out.<\/p>\n
Kate watched his back, a cold smile on her lips. He thought she was surrendering, but in fact, she was positioning herself.<\/p>\n
At midnight, the sound of cheers and fireworks rang out. On TV, the ball was dropping in Times Square. The children ran excitedly to the window to watch the neighborhood fireworks. Her in\u2013laws exchanged hugs and well\u2013wishes.<\/p>\n
\u201cLeo, Mia, come get your New Year\u2019s gift,\u201d Michael called. He took out some envelopes.<\/p>\n
The two children ran over and took the envelopes, saying sweetly, \u201cThank you, Dad. Happy New Year, Dad.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cAnd here\u2019s yours, Catherine.\u201d Michael handed Kate an envelope.<\/p>\n
Kate took it. It was of average thickness, probably a check for a few hundred, just like in previous years.<\/p>\n
\u201cThank you,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cOpen it,\u201d Michael said.<\/p>\n
Kate opened the envelope. Inside there was a check for $5,000 and a small card that said, \u201cFor all you do.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate understood. This was hush money, compensation for his conscience, the price for her to divorce him peacefully and not cause trouble.<\/p>\n
\u201cThank you. It\u2019s too much,\u201d she said, handing the check back.<\/p>\n
\u201cKeep it.\u201d Michael held her hand. \u201cYou\u2019ve worked hard all these years.\u201d<\/p>\n
His hand was warm, but Kate only felt cold.<\/p>\n
She withdrew her hand and put the check in her pocket. \u201cThen thank you,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
This gesture completely reassured Michael. He thought that by accepting the money, Kate had accepted all the terms of the divorce. He would never know that what Kate wanted was far more than this.<\/p>\n
At 2:00 a.m., after seeing off her in\u2013laws and putting the children to bed, the house finally became quiet. Michael finished washing up and hesitated for a moment.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ll still sleep in the guest room,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cMm. Good night,\u201d Kate replied.<\/p>\n
She went back to the master bedroom, but didn\u2019t go to sleep right away. From the depths of the closet, she took out a small fireproof box. Inside were various documents: her Social Security card, college diploma, professional certifications, and a few passbooks and bank cards. These were all things she had secretly prepared over the years. The diploma and certifications were her confidence, and the bank accounts were her way out.<\/p>\n
At the bottom was an employment contract she had just signed last week\u2014 an accountant position at a midsized firm downtown, with an annual salary of $65,000. She would start work after the holidays. The company valued her ten years of prior work experience and her recently obtained certifications and had agreed to give her a chance.<\/p>\n
Sixty\u2013five thousand dollars a year might be what Michael spent on a few business trips, but for her, it was the starting point of a new life.<\/p>\n
Kate put the things back in their place and then opened her phone to check the messages in her study group. She had scored at the top of her class in the final exam for her certification program. The instructor had sent her a private message asking if she was interested in pursuing a higher\u2013level CPA license.<\/p>\n
She replied, \u201cThank you. I will consider it.\u201d<\/p>\n
Turning off her phone, Kate lay down. The sound of fireworks outside had become sparse, with only a few sporadic pops, like the final echo of this marriage. She closed her eyes, and scenes from the past three years flashed through her mind\u2014 the shock and pain of discovering Michael\u2019s infidelity, the despair of deciding to endure it, the calmness of making a plan, and the determination of implementing it step by step.<\/p>\n
The most difficult moments had passed. Now she just needed to follow the plan and take the last few steps.<\/p>\n
On New Year\u2019s Day, Michael didn\u2019t come home until 10:00 p.m., with the faint smell of alcohol and perfume on him. Kate was reading a book in the living room.<\/p>\n
Without looking up, she asked, \u201cHave you eaten?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYes,\u201d Michael said a little guiltily. \u201cA client dinner. I couldn\u2019t get out of it.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate turned a page of her book. \u201cThe children are already asleep,\u201d she said. \u201cKeep your voice down.\u201d<\/p>\n
Michael stood in the middle of the living room looking at her calm profile. Suddenly, he felt an indescribable sense of unease. This unease had started when Kate had readily signed the divorce agreement and had grown stronger with time. None of the reactions he had expected had occurred\u2014 no crying, no questioning, no bargaining. Kate was as calm as if she had known this day would come, even as if she had been waiting for it.<\/p>\n
\u201cKate,\u201d he began, \u201clet\u2019s talk.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate closed her book and looked at him. \u201cTalk about what? The divorce agreement is already signed. What else is there to talk about?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYou.\u201d Michael chose his words carefully. \u201cCan you really accept it? I mean, the divorce and the children going with me?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat can I do if I can\u2019t accept it?\u201d Kate asked. \u201cCry and beg you to come back? Would that work?\u201d<\/p>\n
Michael was at a loss for words.<\/p>\n
\u201cMichael, we\u2019ve been married for twelve years. I know you,\u201d Kate said, standing up and walking over to him. \u201cYou won\u2019t change your mind about something you\u2019ve already decided. Since that\u2019s the case, why shouldn\u2019t I be more dignified and save myself some pride?\u201d<\/p>\n
What she said was logical, but Michael still felt that something was wrong. The Kate in front of him was too calm, too rational\u2014 not at all like the gentle, even somewhat timid wife he thought he knew.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs for the children, as we agreed, we\u2019ll tell them after the holidays are over,\u201d Kate said, cutting him off. \u201cDuring this period, I hope you will cooperate. At least in front of the children, we should still appear harmonious.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI will,\u201d Michael promised.<\/p>\n
Kate nodded and turned to walk toward the bedroom. After a few steps, she turned back.<\/p>\n
\u201cBy the way, as for your parents, you explain it to them yourself,\u201d she said. \u201cI don\u2019t want to hear any gossip about me from them.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI won\u2019t. I\u2019ll handle it,\u201d Michael said.<\/p>\n
Kate closed the bedroom door. Michael stood in the living room, not moving for a long time. He took out his phone, wanting to call Jessica, but after thinking about it, he put it down. For some reason, he didn\u2019t want to make that call in Kate\u2019s house.<\/p>\n
In the guest room, Michael tossed and turned. He recalled Kate\u2019s changes in recent months. She had started wearing makeup and dressing up, enrolled in an online course, and would occasionally go out to dinner with friends. At the time, he thought it was a good thing. It meant that Kate had her own life and wouldn\u2019t be too dependent on him.<\/p>\n
Now that he thought about it, these changes might have been premeditated. But he quickly dismissed the idea. How could Kate have premeditated a divorce? She was a housewife. How could she live without him?<\/p>\n
He must be overthinking it.<\/p>\n
The next day, it was customary to visit one\u2019s own parents. Kate took the children back to her parents\u2019 house. Michael used the excuse of having to work and didn\u2019t go. This was exactly what Kate wanted. She needed some time alone with her parents to talk.<\/p>\n
Kate\u2019s parents lived in the older part of town. The house was not big, but it was very clean. Her father had been a factory accountant before he retired, and her mother was an elementary school teacher. They were both honest and down\u2013to\u2013earth people.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhy are you alone? Where\u2019s Michael?\u201d her mother asked as soon as she opened the door.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe has something to do at the office and can\u2019t come,\u201d Kate said, putting down the gifts. \u201cDad, Mom, I have something to tell you.\u201d<\/p>\n
Seeing her serious expression, her parents exchanged a look. They both had a bad feeling.<\/p>\n
Kate had the two children go to the den to play and then closed the living room door.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong? What happened?\u201d her mother asked anxiously.<\/p>\n
\u201cMichael wants a divorce,\u201d Kate said calmly. \u201cI\u2019ve already signed.\u201d<\/p>\n
The living room went completely silent. The coffee cup in her father\u2019s hand almost fell to the ground. Her mother\u2019s face turned pale.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat divorce? Why? Is he seeing someone else?\u201d her mother finally managed.<\/p>\n
\u201cYes,\u201d Kate said. \u201cIt started three years ago. I just never said anything.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cHow is that possible?\u201d Her mother couldn\u2019t believe it. \u201cMichael seems so decent.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cMom, people change,\u201d Kate said, holding her mother\u2019s hand. \u201cDon\u2019t get too upset. Let me finish.\u201d<\/p>\n
She told her parents everything\u2014 her endurance for the past three years, the process of discovering Michael\u2019s infidelity, and the recent signing of the divorce agreement. But she concealed the part about her own preparations, only saying that she had been forced to accept it.<\/p>\n
\u201cThat jerk,\u201d her father said, trembling with anger. \u201cI\u2019ll go give him a piece of my mind.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cDad, don\u2019t go.\u201d Kate held her father back. \u201cIt\u2019s useless. His heart is no longer in this family. Forcing him to stay is meaningless.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThen what about you? What about the children?\u201d her mother said, her face streaked with tears. \u201cYou haven\u2019t worked for so many years. How will you live after the divorce?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI have a plan,\u201d Kate said. \u201cThe house is mine, and he\u2019ll give me $100,000. I can start work after the holidays. I found a job\u2014 an accounting position paying $65,000 a year.\u201d<\/p>\n
Her parents were stunned. They hadn\u2019t expected their daughter to have a plan already.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou found a job?\u201d her father asked.<\/p>\n
\u201cYes. I signed the contract before Christmas. I start next week,\u201d Kate said. \u201cDad, I\u2019ve put all the accounting knowledge you taught me to use.\u201d<\/p>\n
Her father\u2019s eyes welled up with tears. When she was young, he had wanted his daughter to study accounting, thinking it was a stable profession. But after Kate got married and became a full\u2013time housewife, he had always regretted that she wasn\u2019t using her skills.<\/p>\n
\u201cGood, good,\u201d her father nodded repeatedly. \u201cIt\u2019s good that you have a job. With a job, you\u2019ll be okay.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cBut the children are with him,\u201d Kate said in a low voice. \u201cI\u2019ve given up custody.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat?\u201d Her mother became agitated again. \u201cHow can you give up the children? They are your flesh and blood.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cMom, what can I do if I don\u2019t give them up?\u201d Kate smiled bitterly. \u201cI had no job, no income. Would a judge award the children to me? It\u2019s better to be proactive and fight for better terms than to be forced to give them up in the end.\u201d<\/p>\n
She paused.<\/p>\n
\u201cAnd I\u2019m only giving them up temporarily,\u201d she said quietly. \u201cWhen I get back on my feet, have a stable income, and a place to live, I\u2019ll fight for custody again. The law allows for a change in custody.\u201d<\/p>\n
Her parents were silent. They knew their daughter was right, but it was hard to accept emotionally.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou\u2019ve been wronged, child,\u201d her father said, patting her on the shoulder. \u201cIt\u2019s all my fault for not being capable enough to support you.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cDad, don\u2019t say that,\u201d Kate shook her head. \u201cThis is my own choice. I\u2019ll bear the consequences myself. All I need is your support. Don\u2019t go and make a scene with Michael. Don\u2019t give him any leverage.\u201d<\/p>\n
Her parents finally agreed. Although they felt sorry for their daughter, they also knew that making a scene would not help Kate. Society was already unfair enough to divorced women, especially to a housewife with no recent work history.<\/p>\n
At lunch, the two children were very happy, completely unaware of the heavy conversation the adults had just had. Kate served her parents, peeled shrimp for the children, and acted as usual. Only her mother would occasionally wipe away a tear, which Kate stopped with a look.<\/p>\n
After lunch, Kate took the children to a nearby park. The park was cold in winter, but the sun was bright. The children ran on the grass and Kate sat on a bench watching them.<\/p>\n
\u201cMom, are you unhappy?\u201d Mia ran over and hugged her legs.<\/p>\n
\u201cNo, Mom is very happy,\u201d Kate said, patting her daughter\u2019s face.<\/p>\n
\u201cBut you\u2019re not smiling,\u201d Mia said, frowning.<\/p>\n
Kate forced a smile.<\/p>\n
\u201cHow about this?\u201d she asked.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s fake,\u201d Mia pouted. \u201cMom, did you and Dad have a fight?\u201d<\/p>\n
Children\u2019s sensitivity is often beyond adults\u2019 imagination. Kate\u2019s heart tightened, but she remained calm on the surface.<\/p>\n
\u201cNo, Mom and Dad are fine,\u201d she said. \u201cIt\u2019s just that Mom is a little tired lately.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThen Mom should rest more,\u201d Mia said, hugging her. \u201cWhen I grow up, I\u2019ll help Mom with the housework and Mom won\u2019t be tired anymore.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate\u2019s tears almost fell. She hugged her daughter tightly, breathing in the sweet scent of the child. This little life that she had carried for nine months\u2014 how could she bear to give her up?<\/p>\n
But she had to. A temporary separation was for a longer\u2013term reunion.<\/p>\n
\u201cMia, promise Mom one thing,\u201d Kate said softly.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat is it?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cNo matter what happens in the future, you have to remember that Mom will always love you. And your brother.\u201d Kate looked into her daughter\u2019s eyes. \u201cAlways and forever.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mia seemed to half understand, but she still nodded. \u201cI will always love Mom, too.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate kissed her daughter\u2019s forehead, her heart filled with strength. For her children, she had to be strong. She had to succeed.<\/p>\n
On the way home, Kate received a message from her attorney.<\/p>\n
\u201cSome evidence has been collected, including hotel records and credit card statements,\u201d the text read.<\/p>\n
\u201cMore direct evidence is needed,\u201d she replied. \u201cContinue. Everything must be in place by the end of the week.\u201d<\/p>\n
The street scene outside the car window flew by. Kate looked at this city where she had lived for twelve years and suddenly felt it was strange. But being a stranger was also good. It meant she could start over.<\/p>\n
From January 3rd to the 7th, life went on as usual. Michael still left early and returned late, and Kate still played the role of a virtuous wife and loving mother. But Michael felt more and more that something was wrong. Kate was too calm. So calm that it was unsettling.<\/p>\n
On the night of the 8th, Michael finally couldn\u2019t take it anymore and knocked on the master bedroom door after the children were asleep.
\n\u201cKate, let\u2019s talk,\u201d he said.Kate was reading a book. She took off her glasses. \u201cTalk about what again?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYou,\u201d Michael said. He hesitated for a moment. \u201cWhat are your plans for the future? I mean, after the divorce.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cFind a job and start over,\u201d Kate said. \u201cOtherwise, I guess I\u2019ll wait to go broke.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI don\u2019t mean that,\u201d Michael said, walking in and sitting down on the edge of the bed. \u201cI mean, if you need help, like finding a job or\u2014\u201d
\n\u201cNo need,\u201d Kate interrupted him. \u201cI can take care of myself.\u201dMichael looked at her and suddenly realized that Kate had changed. Not her appearance, but her eyes. In the past, her eyes were always gentle, even a little timid. Now, they had become sharp and determined.<\/p>\n
\u201cKate, do you hate me?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n
\u201cHate?\u201d Kate laughed softly. \u201cHate is too tiring. Michael, I don\u2019t hate you. I\u2019m just disappointed in you, and even more disappointed in myself for being so blind for so many years.\u201d
\nThese words were more hurtful than hate. Michael\u2019s face changed slightly.\u201cI know. I\u2019m sorry,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cNo need to explain,\u201d Kate said. \u201cWe\u2019ve already signed the agreement. We\u2019ll soon have no legal relationship. We\u2019ve had no emotional relationship for a long time. So there\u2019s really no need to explain.\u201d<\/p>\n
The distance in her tone made Michael feel very uncomfortable. He stood up.<\/p>\n
\u201cThen\u2026 you should get some rest,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
At the door, he turned back. \u201cKate, no matter what, I hope you\u2019re okay.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI will be,\u201d Kate said. \u201cDefinitely.\u201d<\/p>\n
The door closed.<\/p>\n
Kate picked up her phone and sent a message to her attorney. \u201cHe\u2019s getting suspicious. Speed up the process. Also, check his recent large transfers, especially to that woman.\u201d<\/p>\n
Soon, the attorney replied: \u201cI\u2019m on it. By the way, the change in his company\u2019s shareholding that you asked me to check has a lead. Six months ago, he transferred 10% of his shares to a shell company. The legal representative of that company is Jessica\u2019s younger brother.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate\u2019s eyes narrowed. Michael had not only cheated; he was also hiding marital assets. This required an adjustment to her previous plan. A house and $100,000 were far from enough.<\/p>\n
She replied, \u201cCollect all the evidence, including the share transfer documents, bank statements, and communication records. I\u2019ll need them by this weekend.\u201d<\/p>\n
Putting down her phone, Kate walked to the window. The night was dark, with a few scattered lights on the tall buildings in the distance. She remembered that night three years ago when she first discovered Michael\u2019s infidelity and cried all night in the bathroom. At that time, she felt like her world was collapsing.<\/p>\n
But now, standing here, she felt calm and determined.<\/p>\n
People are forced to grow. Gentleness is easy when there is someone to rely on. Strength is what\u2019s left when there is no other choice.<\/p>\n
Kate had no other choice, so she had to be strong.<\/p>\n
On Friday, January 10th, Kate prepared a large table of dishes as usual. Michael also came home for dinner on time. At the dinner table, he announced, \u201cLet\u2019s go out to eat as a family tomorrow night. I\u2019ve booked a nice restaurant.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cOkay!\u201d the children cheered.<\/p>\n
Kate glanced at him. \u201cWhy the sudden desire to eat out?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s the weekend and it\u2019ll be nice to do something special,\u201d Michael said. \u201cAnd we might not have the chance in the future.\u201d<\/p>\n
His words were meaningful. Kate understood. He wanted to play the role of a harmonious family one last time before the divorce\u2014 perhaps for his own conscience, or perhaps to leave a good memory for the children.<\/p>\n
\u201cOkay,\u201d Kate agreed. She also had her own plans. After tomorrow, everything would change. Let tonight be the last ordinary supper of this family.<\/p>\n
That night, after the children were asleep, Michael knocked on the master bedroom door again.<\/p>\n
\u201cStill up?\u201d Kate asked.<\/p>\n
\u201cI want to talk to the children after dinner tomorrow night,\u201d Michael said. \u201cIt\u2019s time to tell them about the divorce.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate nodded. \u201cOkay. But I want to be there.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cOf course,\u201d Michael said. \u201cKate, thank you. Thank you for your cooperation during this time.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cNo need to thank me,\u201d Kate said. \u201cI\u2019m also doing it for the children.\u201d<\/p>\n
Michael stood at the door, hesitating. In the end, he only said, \u201cGet some rest. Good night.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cGood night,\u201d Kate said.<\/p>\n
She closed the door and leaned against it. Tomorrow, everything would end\u2014 and everything would also begin.<\/p>\n
She took out the black journal, turned to the last page, and wrote:<\/p>\n
\u201cJanuary 10, 2026. Ready. New life begins tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n
After writing, she closed the journal and put it in her purse. This journal, which had recorded her inner journey for the past three years, was her most private witness. After tomorrow, it would become the past.<\/p>\n
The next evening, Kate began to prepare for the negotiation.<\/p>\n
She changed into a new, sharp pantsuit, put on light makeup, and tied her hair into a neat ponytail. The person in the mirror didn\u2019t look like a stay\u2013at\u2013home mom at all, but more like a corporate executive.<\/p>\n
Michael was stunned when he saw her.<\/p>\n
\u201cWow. Where are you going dressed like that?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n
\u201cCan\u2019t I?\u201d Kate replied.<\/p>\n
\u201cNo, I just think it\u2019s a bit formal for dinner,\u201d Michael said.<\/p>\n
\u201cToday is an important day. It\u2019s good to be formal,\u201d Kate said meaningfully.<\/p>\n
Michael thought she was referring to the conversation with the children and didn\u2019t ask any more questions. He didn\u2019t know that what Kate meant by \u201cimportant\u201d had a completely different meaning.<\/p>\n
At 6:00 p.m., the family set off for the restaurant. Michael had booked a high\u2013end steakhouse with a private room, suitable for talking. The children were very excited because they rarely came to such an expensive place.<\/p>\n
When ordering, Michael was very generous, picking the children\u2019s favorite dishes. He ordered a bottle of Cabernet for himself and also poured a glass for Kate.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s a special occasion. Have a little,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Kate didn\u2019t refuse. She needed a little alcohol to calm her nerves, although she was already well prepared.<\/p>\n
Halfway through the meal, Michael put down his fork and cleared his throat.<\/p>\n
\u201cLeo, Mia,\u201d he began, \u201cDad has something to tell you.\u201d<\/p>\n
The children looked up at him.<\/p>\n
\u201cDad and Mom\u2026\u201d Michael glanced at Kate. \u201cWe\u2019ve decided to separate. From now on, Dad and Mom won\u2019t live together anymore.\u201d<\/p>\n
The private room went completely silent. Leo was the first to react.<\/p>\n
\u201cAre you getting a divorce?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n
That word, coming from an eight\u2013year\u2013old child\u2019s mouth, had a surreal absurdity. Kate\u2019s heart ached, but she remained calm on the surface.<\/p>\n
\u201cYes,\u201d Michael said with difficulty. \u201cBut don\u2019t worry. Dad and Mom still love you. It\u2019s just\u2026 we just won\u2019t live together anymore.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWhy?\u201d Mia asked, tears welling up in her eyes.<\/p>\n
\u201cBecause\u2026\u201d Michael didn\u2019t know how to explain.<\/p>\n
\u201cBecause your father has fallen in love with someone else,\u201d Kate said calmly, taking over. \u201cHe has a new relationship outside, so he doesn\u2019t want our family anymore.\u201d<\/p>\n
These words were like a bomb exploding in the private room.<\/p>\n
\u201cKate, what are you saying?\u201d Michael\u2019s face turned pale. \u201cWhat are you talking about?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cAm I wrong?\u201d Kate asked.<\/p>\n
She took a manila folder from her purse and pushed it in front of him.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese are your hotel records with Jessica starting from three years ago, a total of forty\u2013seven stays. Do you need me to read them to the children?\u201d<\/p>\n
Michael\u2019s face turned white instantly. He grabbed the documents, his hands trembling.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou\u2026 you investigated me,\u201d he stammered.<\/p>\n
\u201cOf course,\u201d Kate said.<\/p>\n
She took out another stack of papers.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese are your credit card statements. Last year alone, you spent over $50,000 on gifts for her. And this\u2014\u201d she tapped the final document\u2014 \u201cis proof that you transferred company shares to her younger brother\u2019s shell company six months ago without disclosing it. That\u2019s a serious problem, Michael.\u201d<\/p>\n
With every sentence she spoke, Michael\u2019s face turned a shade paler. The children looked at their parents, completely confused about what was happening, but they could feel the terrifying atmosphere.<\/p>\n
\u201cKate, let\u2019s go outside and talk,\u201d Michael said, standing up, his voice trembling. \u201cNot in front of the kids.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWhy go outside?\u201d Kate sat still. \u201cThe children have the right to know the truth. Michael, you wanted a divorce. Fine. I agree. But not according to your agreement.\u201d<\/p>\n
She took out another document from her purse.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is my divorce agreement,\u201d she said. \u201cThe house is mine. The full value of the shares you transferred\u2014 estimated at $1.2 million\u2014 is mine. In addition, you will pay $200,000 in damages for emotional distress. And full custody of the children goes to me.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cYou\u2019re out of your mind,\u201d Michael hissed. \u201cOn what grounds?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cOn these grounds,\u201d Kate said, pointing to the evidence on the table. \u201cOn the grounds of your infidelity. On the grounds of your hidden transfer of marital assets. On the grounds of your attempt to deceive me and your children.\u201d<\/p>\n
She leaned forward slightly.<\/p>\n
\u201cMichael, if this evidence is submitted to the court, how do you think the judge will rule?\u201d she asked quietly. \u201cHow will your investors react? How will your board react?\u201d<\/p>\n
Michael collapsed back into his chair, sweat beading on his forehead. For the first time, he realized that he didn\u2019t know Kate at all. This seemingly gentle and quiet woman had secretly collected so much evidence and laid such a careful plan.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou\u2026 you knew all along,\u201d he whispered.<\/p>\n
\u201cI knew three years ago,\u201d Kate said. \u201cI didn\u2019t expose you then because I had no job, no income, and no ability to raise the children alone. But now I do.\u201d<\/p>\n
She looked at the children.<\/p>\n
\u201cLeo, Mia, Mom has to tell you\u2014 Dad made a serious mistake, and he won\u2019t be living with us anymore. But Mom wants you. Mom will work hard to give you a good life. Are you willing to live with Mom?\u201d<\/p>\n
The two children were already in tears. Mia threw herself into Kate\u2019s arms.<\/p>\n
\u201cI want Mommy. I want Mommy,\u201d she sobbed.<\/p>\n
Leo also walked over and hugged Kate\u2019s arm.<\/p>\n
\u201cI also want Mommy,\u201d he said, his voice shaking.<\/p>\n
Kate hugged the children, her tears finally flowing. But these were not tears of weakness; they were tears of release, tears of victory.<\/p>\n
Michael watched this scene and suddenly felt like an outsider. This family he had lived in for twelve years, these people he thought would always belong to him, had all slipped away from him in an instant.<\/p>\n
\u201cKate, we can talk about the terms,\u201d he tried to salvage the situation. \u201cWe can negotiate.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThere\u2019s nothing to talk about,\u201d Kate said, wiping her tears. \u201cSign this agreement. If you don\u2019t, we\u2019ll see you in court. And when that happens, this evidence will become public record, and your company\u2019s shareholders and clients will know exactly what you did. Think it over.\u201d<\/p>\n
Michael knew she meant what she said. If this evidence was exposed, his career could be destroyed. The company was trying to secure a new round of funding. If a scandal broke out at this time, everything he had built could crumble.<\/p>\n
He picked up the pen, his hand trembling so much that he could barely hold it. The moment he signed his name on the agreement, he felt his world collapse.<\/p>\n
Kate put away the agreement and took out another document.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is a supplementary agreement,\u201d she said. \u201cYou will pay $3,000 a month in child support for the two children until they graduate from college. In addition, you can visit them once a week, but you must make an appointment in advance and get my consent.\u201d<\/p>\n
Michael signed numbly. All he wanted now was to get out of this room, out of this suffocating place.<\/p>\n
\u201cOkay, you can go now,\u201d Kate said quietly. \u201cThe children are coming home with me tonight. I\u2019ll take them to school on Monday.\u201d<\/p>\n
Michael stood up and looked at the children. Mia hid in Kate\u2019s arms and wouldn\u2019t even look at him. Leo looked at him, his eyes filled with disappointment and hurt.<\/p>\n
\u201cLeo, Mia, Dad\u2026\u201d Michael wanted to say something but couldn\u2019t.<\/p>\n
\u201cLet\u2019s go,\u201d Kate interrupted him. \u201cDon\u2019t make the children more upset.\u201d<\/p>\n
Michael took one last look at them and turned to leave.<\/p>\n
The moment the private room door closed, Kate hugged the children tightly and burst into tears. This time, it was a complete release.<\/p>\n
The next morning, Kate woke up earlier than usual. She made pancakes and woke the children.<\/p>\n
The children\u2019s eyes were still a little swollen, but they were in good spirits.<\/p>\n
\u201cMom, are we moving today?\u201d Leo asked.<\/p>\n
\u201cSoon,\u201d Kate said. \u201cWe\u2019ll stay here for a little while. We\u2019ll move when Mom finds a new house. But from today on, Dad won\u2019t live with us anymore.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mia lowered her head and said in a small voice, \u201cI miss Dad.\u201d<\/p>\n
Kate squatted down and hugged her daughter.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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