Chapter 25
Steven called Yvonne countless times, but the moment the conversation strayed from the topic of divorce, she would hang up immediately
On his last attempt, he pleaded in a low voice, “I’ll sign the divorce papers. But I just want to see you one last time, Yvonne. Consider it closure for what we once had. I’ll be waiting for you at home.”
Yvonne returned. But as soon as she stepped inside, she saw that Steven had gathered all their mutual friends at the house. He was hoping they would persuade her to stay.
Yvonne frowned slightly, a trace of displeasure flashing in her eyes. The atmosphere in the room was awkward–everyone exchanged glances, unsure of what to say.
Before anyone could speak, Yvonne said, “Guys, only the one in the marriage really knows what’s going on. Steven has been cheating for three years. Did any of you ever try to stop him? And now you want to persuade me not to divorce?
“A single mistake can sometimes be forgiven, but after three years of betrayal, what is there left to salvage?”
As soon as she finished speaking, the room fell silent.
One of Steven’s friends patted him on the shoulder and sighed. “Sorry, man. I really can’t say anything to defend you. You brought this on yourself.”
The others nodded in agreement. Their gazes toward Steven carried a mix of sympathy, reproach, and helplessness.
One by one, they left. Soon, only Steven and Yvonne remained in the room.
Yvonne’s gaze was frosty as she looked at him. “Are you signing or not?”
Steven’s body trembled slightly. With a sudden thud, he dropped to his knees in front of her, his eyes filled with remorse.
He said, “I know I was terribly wrong. I don’t expect you to forgive me right away, but… I can’t lose you.
“I was blinded by my own foolishness for the past three years. Every single day recently, I’ve been drowning in regret, I…”
Yvonne scoffed. “Steven, three years ago, I felt the same pain you’re feeling now. But that didn’t stop you from hurting me over and over again. I endured that pain for three years, and yet you can’t even handle a few days of it?”
Steven lowered his head, at a complete loss for words.
Each betrayal of his had been like a nail driven into the wall of their marriage. Now, that wall was riddled with holes, barely standing.
“Yvonne, I’m sorry… I’m so sorry…” Suddenly, he raised his hand and started slapping his own face. With each strike, he choked out another apology.
Yvonne watched his pitiful display, but her heart remained unmoved. The love she once had for him had been completely worn away by years of suffering.
“Sign the papers soon. This is the last time I will see you. I’m giving you three more days–my lawyer will contact you then.” With that, Yvonne turned and walked toward the door.
Steven scrambled forward on his knees, clutching her legs as he sobbed. “I won’t get a divorce. Yvonne, as long as we stay married, you can punish me however you want.”
Yvonne stopped in her tracks and looked down at Steven, her gaze ice–cold. “Steven, do you think this is still a game where you can negotiate? You have no right to set conditions.”
But Steven just held on to Yvonne tightly, refusing to let go no matter what. “Don’t leave, Yvonne, Honey, please, don’t go-”
Before he could finish, a sharp kick sent him sprawling. Instinctively, he loosened his grip and looked up, only to see Reid standing beside Yvonne, his face dark with anger.
“Reid?” Steven was stunned,
Reid was livid. He rolled up his sleeves and was about to step forward when Yvonne quickly stopped him. “Mr. Simmons, thank you. But this is between us. Please don’t interfere.”
JA
