Chapter 7

"Here, sweetie, have some more. These pork chops are delicious," Mom said, continuously serving food onto my plate.

"Thanks, Mom. You have some too," I replied, putting some food on her plate as well.

"Now try some of this fish. Your dad made it, and it's really delicious," Mom urged.

I took a piece of fish and popped it in my mouth. "Mmm, it's so good! Dad's still got the magic touch in the kitchen," I said.

"Sweetie, how have things been with Stephen lately?" Dad asked with concern.

"Dad, we're doing pretty well. He takes good care of me," I replied with a smile.

"That's good to hear. Marriage is all about mutual care, understanding, and support," Dad said.

"Honey, even when you're busy with work, make sure you take care of yourself," Mom said with a smile.

"Don't worry, Mom. I promise I'll look after myself," I replied.

"No matter how busy you are, just remember to take care of yourself. Don't push yourself too hard," Mom reminded me again.

"I know, Mom," I said.

"Honey, when are you and Stephen planning to have kids?" Mom asked, sounding a little hesitant.

I hesitated for a moment. "Mom, it's not something we want to rush into. We figure we'll save up first, so our kids can have a better start."

"That makes sense. But don't wait too long. While we're still healthy and energetic, we can help look after the baby," Mom said.

"Sweetie, do you remember when you were little, how you'd always beg for the cake I made on your birthday?" Dad said with a laugh.

"Of course I remember, Dad! Back then, I thought your cakes were the most delicious in the world," I said.

"This year, for your birthday, I was too busy to make you one and send it over. Once things calm down in a few days, I'll make it up to you," Dad promised.

We talked and laughed throughout the meal. By the time we finished eating, an hour had flown by.

Mom packed a bag of food for me. "You're both so busy with work, and you'll be too tired to cook when you get home. These breads were made this afternoon.

"Freeze them when you get back, and you can warm them on nights you don't feel like cooking. There are also some snacks you like. Your dad bought them on his way home from work."

"It's getting late, sweetie. You should head back and get some rest," Dad said.

"I wish I could stay and chat with you both a little longer," I said.

"Come on, go get some sleep. You've got work in the morning," Dad reminded me.

As I was heading out the door, Mom handed me the bag and advised, "Sweetie, you and Stephen are building a life together, so try not to fight. Whenever something comes up, just talk it through. No point in letting it turn into a misunderstanding."

I nodded, smiling. "You and Dad should get some rest, too. I'll head out. It's getting late."

"Okay, be careful on your way home," Mom said.

I walked home alone. The night breeze carried a slight chill.

It brushed softly against my face, but it couldn't soothe the turmoil churning inside me.

I couldn't help but think about all the hopes my parents had for me to have a happy marriage.

But this time, I was determined to go through with the divorce.

All their dreams would just disappear in an instant. I could only imagine how heartbroken and disappointed they'd be.

Tears welled up in my eyes. I fought hard to hold them back, refusing to let them fall.

The next day after work, I went straight to the mall without a moment's delay.

Tomorrow was the family dinner. I needed to pick out suitable gifts for my aunts and cousins.

The mall was packed and buzzing with energy.

I moved from store to store, carefully comparing different items.

Just as I was examining a necklace in a jewelry store, a familiar voice reached my ears.

"Stephen, what do you think of this one?"

My heart jolted. It was Susan's voice.

I turned my head slowly.

A familiar figure came into view, catching me completely off guard.

It was Stephen, together with Susan, the dream girl he never got over, and their child.

Susan was wearing a flowing white dress, her long hair cascading down her back. She looked every bit the gentle beauty, soft, graceful, and serene.

Stephen stood beside her, his expression tender.

Their child was bouncing around nearby, full of energy and sweetness.

As soon as they saw me, all three of them were stunned.