5
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Connor was convinced I was playing a game, using reverse psychology to threaten him. He sat across from me, his gaze cold and indifferent. Every time we’d argu- ed before, I was always the one to back down first. So he assumed this time, too, I would soften and yield.
But what he didn’t know was that I was absolutely determined to leave.
I pulled the divorce papers closer, gripping the pen. Under his chilling stare, I flipped to the last page and signed my name. Then I handed him the pen. “If there are no issues, just sign here.”
At that moment, Connor finally realized I wasn’t joking. He lowered his gaze, his voice incredibly deep, almost a whisper. “Are you sure?”
I glanced at my watch. “If we go to City Hall now, we can still make the last appointment.”
He didn’t speak, just stared at me, his dark eyes searching for a flaw in my resolve. I don’t know how long passed, but finally, he lowered his gaze.
“Then let’s do it.”
He signed his name. His pen paused suddenly. “Grandpa’s birthday gala is next month. I hope we can keep our divorce quiet until after that.”
had no objection. I stood up and pulled out the suitcase I’d packed long ago from the corner.
“Layla.” His voice softened, losing some of its cold edge. “You can continue living here.”
“No need.” If we were divorcing, there was no reason to maintain any ties.
If you ever need anything in the future,” he added, “don’t hesitate to ask.”
I didn’t linger. As I reached the front door, he quickly followed. “I’ll drive you.”
“No, someone’s aiready coming to pick me up.”
Downstairs, I saw a tall figure standing under the streetlamp in the distance. The moment he spotted me, he strode forward, his long legs covering the ground quick-
ly, and naturally took my suitcase.
Once in the car, I looked at the proud, elegant man in the driver’s seat. “Jackson Reed,” I said, “give me one month.”
Jackson chuckled softly, then leaned over, reaching for my seatbelt. “Just one month. I can wait.”
6
