04

4

In the presence of attorneys and media representatives, I affixed my signature to the transfer document, officially relinquishing all my possessions and business interests to my son.

A wave of enthusiastic clapping filled the room, accompanied by murmurs of admiration. Many onlookers commented on the strong connection between mother and child, their gazes filled with longing as they observed my son.

At that moment, Rosie made a dramatic entrance, arriving fashionably late with Stephen by her side.

The room fell quiet, with bewilderment and astonishment evident on everyone's faces as Rosie revealed a DNA test result. She announced loudly, "Daphne, you should know that the IVF baby you carried years ago was actually created from Stephen's and my embryo."

"I am Kian's birth mother. Allowing him to address you as 'Mom' for over two decades was ample compensation for your role as a surrogate. It's now time for you to return him to me."

Her statement caused a commotion.

"Isn't she the struggling student Daphne always helped? How could she become involved with Daphne's spouse and have Daphne carry their child?"

"This is shocking! It's like the tale of the ungrateful viper! Daphne provided so much assistance, only to be repaid with treachery?"

"And the timing? She waited until Daphne transferred the company before revealing this. It's clearly about the money!"

"Indeed! It's despicable to use someone as a surrogate and then take everything they own. This is pure wickedness!"

Amid the fierce criticism, Stephen spoke up, seeming self-assured and indignant. "For years, I was trapped in a loveless marriage. As a man, I kept telling myself to remain committed to this relationship."

"But I'm only human. During countless sleepless nights, I questioned myself: Is this truly the life I desire?"

"Daphne comes from a good background and has treated both me and Kian well, but my heart belongs to Rosie. Is it wrong for me to seek true love?"

"Marriage should bring joy, and so should divorce. It shouldn't be a chain that keeps me from my soulmate. I hope everyone can support our happiness!"

His words were delivered with such passion, as if he were a victim of an unhappy union, courageously defying social norms to pursue love.

I disregarded him and instead turned to my son, asking calmly, "What are your thoughts on this?"

Kian examined the share transfer agreement in his hand before responding coolly, "Mom, this will be the final time I address you as such."

"Although you've cared for me for over two decades, the fact remains that you're not my biological mother."

"Blood ties are stronger than water. I hope you won't obstruct our family's reunion."

With that, he tossed a divorce agreement at me and said arrogantly, "While everyone is present, divorce my Dad today and set him free."

"In recognition of your care over the years, I'll provide you with two hundred dollars monthly as alimony."

His words ignited fury among the onlookers.

"No wonder they say the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. What kind of family is this?"

"Exactly! Everyone knows Daphne always cherished her son, indulging him for years. And now, the moment she transfers her wealth to him, he turns around and calls someone else 'Mom'?"

"Two hundred dollars a month? That's barely enough for basic necessities! How dare he suggest that?"

"I'm just an observer, and even I find this intolerable! Daphne, don't pay any attention to these ungrateful individuals!"

"Precisely! They've crossed a line!"

The crowd rallied to my defense, incensed on my behalf. Some even offered to help me take legal action to reclaim my assets.

Despite the uproar, Rosie and Stephen maintained their composure, as if prepared for any outcome.

But amidst the crowd's righteous anger, I smiled faintly and said, "Very well."

To everyone's astonishment, I signed the divorce agreement without hesitation.

Rosie and Stephen were momentarily taken aback, clearly not anticipating my easy acquiescence. They scrutinized both the divorce agreement and the share transfer documents. Confirming everything was in order, they finally relaxed and broke into victorious smiles.

Observing their smug expressions, I smiled as well.

"Since you've presented me with such a grand surprise, it's only fair that I reciprocate with a special gift."

Stephen furrowed his brow, perplexed. "A gift? What kind of gift?"

Everyone else turned their inquisitive gazes toward me.