Chapter 14: Fine, She’ll Endure a Little Longer

Ethan Yu was holding a stack of documents, clearly intending to drop them off in his study.

But Hailey Tang stepped in front of him, blocking his path. "Did you read what I gave you?"

Only then did Ethan remember the folder she had handed him.

The flicker in his eyes confirmed everything—he hadn't read it.

"You didn't read it?" Hailey asked, already knowing the answer.

"No time," he replied bluntly, stepping around her to head for the study.

Hailey followed right on his heels. "I told you it was important! It wouldn't even take that long to read."

Ethan let out a cold laugh. "I don't have time to waste on your nonsense."

Every second of his time was valuable. He didn't want to spare a single moment on her.

That cruel, cutting disdain of his—it was something Hailey had gotten used to. But even the kindest soul would start to feel bitter being treated like this, again and again.

Her tone was calm, but her words held weight: "What I gave you… is a divorce agreement. I'm sure that once you read it, you'll agree to the divorce. But since you didn't get around to it, I'll just print another copy for you now."

Ethan suddenly turned around, towering over her with a cold gaze. "A divorce agreement?"

Hailey nodded, her expression serious. "Yes."

In an instant, his entire demeanor darkened. His gaze turned sharp—like a blade. "Hailey Tang, do you really have to stir up drama at a time like this?"

He thought she was using this particular moment—this delicate period in his career—to deliberately provoke him.

He didn't believe she truly wanted a divorce. She must have assumed he wouldn't agree, so she was putting on a performance.

But Hailey's face was earnest. "I'm not trying to cause trouble. If you read the agreement, you'll see I'm serious. I swear it won't affect your work or your reputation."

Ethan let out another cold, sarcastic chuckle. "Won't affect me? You're doing this now, of all times, and you think I won't see it as a threat? You could've brought this up earlier—or later—but no, you had to choose now. You think this will force my hand?"

"I'm not threatening you!" Hailey's voice trembled slightly.

"Hailey Tang, let me warn you one more time—stay in your place." Ethan's tone was cold, dangerous. His eyes flashed with a warning: if she pushed him any further, there would be consequences.

Hailey felt powerless.

"Why is it so hard for you to believe that I really want a divorce?" she whispered.

Ethan didn't answer her question. Instead, he sneered

. "Who said I don't believe you? But when I come to you with the divorce papers, don't go back on your word."

"So, you're saying we can't divorce now?"

"Relax," he said coldly. "Soon. I'll make your wish come true as quickly as possible."

So… not now.

If he didn't agree, then Hailey couldn't get divorced on her own.

Fine. She would endure it a little longer.

She could endure. She had endured worse. But every day she stayed married to him, she had this growing fear… like history was doomed to repeat itself.

She wanted out before the past came creeping back again.

But since she had no choice, all she could do now was wait.

As long as she had made her position clear, once this critical time passed, they could finally go their separate ways.

Hailey took a breath and backed down. "Alright. I'll wait. You prepare the divorce agreement. Just know this—I mean every word. I'm serious about this divorce."

With that, she turned and walked out of the study.

Ethan stood there, staring at her retreating back, a complex storm brewing in his eyes.

Was she… actually serious?

But he couldn't understand why. Why now? Why so suddenly?

She had chased him relentlessly for seven years. Seven long years.

And now she suddenly wanted to let go?

Yeah, right. If she'd truly had a change of heart, it must have come from a blow to the head.

Still… whatever her reason, whatever her goal—if she wanted to leave, fine. He'd be more than happy to oblige.

Once this current period passed, he would absolutely give her what she wanted.

But the very next day, disaster struck.

Ethan hadn't even arrived at the office yet when his phone lit up with an urgent message.

The news that he was getting a divorce… had already leaked online.