Chapter 9 — Two Million Yuan Ends Eight Years of Marriage

Chu Van Bac's jumping off a building ended in humiliation. Not only could he not force me to appear, but he was also placed under administrative detention for fifteen days for disturbing public order. Became the biggest joke in the city. News spread everywhere.

"The husband spent all his assets because of his sister, then turned to slander his wife and then performed a scene of jumping off a building."

"The best actor of the year threatened his wife by jumping off a building but was exposed by the online community."

His photo, the evidence I released, was shared like crazy. He was “famous” in a way no one wanted him to be. His whole family, from his parents to Chu Van Ky, were criticized everywhere. The Chu family's reputation was ruined. I also heard that Chu Van Ky's company was already in trouble. After this, partners withdrew capital, employees quit, and closed in just one day. It is true that you reap what you sow. Those two million yuan not only destroyed her brother, but also buried her. During this half month, I lived peacefully like never before. I changed school for Chu Niem, to a school near my new home. I applied for a job, quickly found a new job, the position and salary were both better than before. I take my child to the park, to the amusement park, and eat ice cream that he likes. The smile on the little face grows bigger every day. My heart is also gradually filled with light. Turns out, leaving the place that took my breath away, the sky outside was so vast. Fifteen days later, Zhou Wenbo was released. He didn't come looking for me. Perhaps there is no face left to find. He disappeared from my life, like he never existed. Until lawyer Vuong called.

“Kha Tinh, Chu Van Bac's side has agreed to reconcile.”

His voice was relieved.

“He accepted the divorce and at the same time gave up custody of Chu Niem.”

“The only condition is that you do not pursue the two million yuan, and do not pursue debts incurred during the marriage.”

I predicted this result. He is now empty-handed, his reputation is gone. Raising children is no longer a right, but a burden. Using a burden he didn't want in exchange for having his debt erased. A very profitable deal.

"I agree."

“But I have one more condition.”

“You say it.”

"The agreement must clearly state that the entire debt of the house is borne by him and has nothing to do with me."

“Not only did I leave empty-handed, I also had to come clean.”

"No problem."

The lawyer replied.

“I will handle this.”

“He has nothing left to bargain with.”

The day I signed the divorce agreement was the last time I met Chu Van Bac. In a small, narrow mediation room. He was thinner, older, and his sideburns were streaked with gray. The whole body was covered with a layer of gloom and depression that could not be dispelled. He bowed his head and didn't look at me once from beginning to end. There was no longer the previous stubbornness in his eyes, nor the crazy resentment that followed. Only a gray, numb void remained. Like a soulless body. I signed my name on the agreement. The tip of the pen glides across the paper, making a dry sound. It's like drawing an end to an eight-year marriage, wild and sad. After signing, I stood up, without hesitation, turned around and left.

“Kha Tinh.”

Behind him, his hoarse voice rang out. I stopped walking, but didn't turn around. He was silent for a long time. It was so long that I thought he wouldn't say anything anymore. Then finally, in an almost delirious voice, he I asked.

“Did you… ever love me?”

I laughed. A genuine laugh, because it felt funny. At this point, what is the meaning of asking that question? I don't answer. Just open the door, step straight out. Sunlight poured in. Leaving him, with that ridiculous question, forever locked in the dark mediation room. Ever been in love? A long time ago. But now, there's only one thing left in my heart. This life is worth living. As for him, it's not worth it.