Chapter 6 — Two Million Yuan Ends Eight Years of Marriage

I moved into a new rented apartment. Security is very good, no one knows this address. I hugged Chu Niem tightly in my arms, inhaling the familiar smell of milk on her body, my heart that had been hanging in the air for the past few days finally lowered.

“Mom, why doesn't dad come home with me?”

Chu Niem looked up and asked in an innocent voice. I wiped my tears and smiled gently.

“Nien Niem, mom and dad will live separately from now on.”

“Like my friend Dong Dong, sometimes he lives with his father, sometimes he lives with his mother.”

“But we all love you very much.”

Chu Niem nodded, seemingly understanding but not completely understanding, then did not ask further. Children are very sensitive, they have probably felt the tense atmosphere in the house all this time. After making arrangements for my child, I immediately met with a lawyer. We made an appointment in a private room in the cafe.

“Kha Tinh, you did very well this time.”

Lawyer surnamed Vuong, about forty years old, sharp looking, speaks very decisively.

"The application for a protection order combined with today's behavior, the police have recorded."

“In the custody dispute, we have the upper hand.”

I nodded, but I didn't feel relieved at all.

“Lawyer Vuong, I want to file a divorce lawsuit as soon as possible.”

“I don't want to last another day.”

“My documents are almost ready.”

“There are two main problems right now.”

“First, is the division of assets.”

"Even though there was a reason for the money she transferred, legally there is still a dispute."

"If Chu Van Bac clings to this point and doesn't let go, it will be very troublesome."

My heart sank slightly.

“So what should I do?”

“The best way is to use what you have in your hand to communicate with him.”

Lawyer Vuong's eyes were as sharp as a knife.

“You can give up that money, you don't even need a house or car.”

“Use everything in exchange for child custody.”

“Do you think he will agree?”

I almost don't have to think.

“He will.”

I understand Chu Van Bac very well. In his heart, face and money are forever more important than his son. An agreement to leave empty-handed was enough for him to retain his last pitiful bit of self-respect. At the same time, it also helps him reduce debt pressure. He had no reason to refuse. Lawyer Vuong nodded with satisfaction.

“The second problem is the two million yuan given to his sister.”

“Do we want it back?”

"If we claim, the lawsuit will drag on, and Chu Van Ky's company is now just an empty shell. Even if we win, we may not be able to recover the money."

"If you don't ask for it, it's like letting them benefit for nothing."

I looked into the coffee cup and saw my cold reflection. I said, my voice not loud but firm.

“It may not be possible to get your money back.”

“But I must follow this lawsuit.”

“I want everyone to know how Chu Van Ky destroyed his brother.”

“I want her to carry this stain for the rest of her life.”

I never really needed money. What I need is justice. It's eight years of resentment that must be returned. Lawyer Vuong looked at me, his eyes carrying a bit of approval.

"I got it."

“I will quickly submit all documents to the court.”

Leaving the cafe, it was completely dark. The city lights reflect on the wet road surface after the rain, spreading brilliant colors. I walked in the middle of the crowd, feeling like I was alive again. Whatever side The front is still full of sharp thorns. But this time, I fight for myself. Returning home, Chu Niem was already sleeping, her small face so peaceful and soft. I bent down and gently kissed my child's forehead.

“Darling, don't be afraid.”

“I will build you a new home.”

A place where there is no arguing, no patience, only love and warmth. The next day, Chu Van Bac received a court summons. Along with a divorce petition and a lawsuit to reclaim the gift. I know he will completely collapse. But all of that no longer concerns me. I blocked the last phone number that could contact me. Completely cut off from the past. I started looking for a new job and planning my life for both mother and child. Life is not easy. But after the rain, the sky will be bright. I used to think that everything would gradually get back on track in such peace and busyness. Until half a month later, I received an unexpected call. The caller was her ex-mother-in-law. Her voice was no longer harsh like before, but only pleading and choking.

“Kha Tinh… no, Kha Tinh.”

“I beg you, please come back.”

"Van Bac... he's about to jump off the building!"