chapter 6

There was a brief silence on the line before my best friend, Sophia Meyer, spoke. "Finally, you've figured it out!"

Even over the phone, I could hear the joy she could barely contain. "Back then, you gave up everything—even the CEO position at the company—to be a housewife for some self-made man! I mean… whatever! As long as you've realized it, it's not too late."

"Sophia, I'm not just getting a divorce. I want him… ruined and disgraced," I said calmly, my voice flat and emotionless.

Sophia paused for a few seconds, asking no questions, then responded firmly, "Good!"

…

A week later, I sat at Sophia's desk, staring at the stacks of files and documents about Andrew spread out in front of me.

Then, I dialed his number.

"I've signed the divorce agreement," I said, my voice flat and steady.

There was a brief pause on the other end, followed by a scoff, dripping with contempt and smugness. "Smart of you. Monica, I've been wanting this divorce for a long time!

"I've put up with you for 10 years! I'm sick of your high-and-mighty face! Sick of acting like a dog in front of your parents!

"Sick of you bossing me around! Who do you think you are?

"I got to where I am today on my own abilities!

"Do you really think your family is that impressive? Without me, could you and your clueless dad have made it this far?"

The mask he had worn for so long finally broke, unleashing years of pent-up anger and resentment.

"Finished talking?" I asked calmly. "Then get out. Take the signed divorce agreement and go to the courthouse today. Once it's done, get out of my house, get out of my company immediately."

Andrew smirked, as if he'd just heard the funniest joke in the world. "Monica! You're still dreaming, huh?

"Leave? The one who should leave is you!

"These years, you think I've been working for nothing? I've already transferred all the money I wanted!

"The main shares of the company aren't in your useless dad's hands anymore! The company is mine!"

He scoffed and continued, "You want me to walk away with nothing? Dream on! I suggest you pack your things, take your useless parents, and disappear!"

"Is that so?" I asked lightly.

His arrogance was exactly what Sophia and I expected. "The shares are in your name? All assets transferred?"

"Of course! Everything's in black and white, legal documents!" His tone was cocky.

"Good. If you're so confident, see you in court. Let's see if those documents can actually get you a single cent."

"Fine! See you in court! I want to see if the law stands with you, this old hag, or me, the real owner who creates value for the company!

"Monica, just wait until the day you're begging and pleading with me!"

I hung up the phone, staring at the screen, a cold smile tugging at the corner of my lips.