The word ‘divorce’ stunned Tao Le; it was something she had been avoiding. She felt that no matter how they fought, divorce was never an option, but her actions now seemed driven by some subconscious force towards that path, and the consequences were unthinkable. “Mom, I haven’t thought about divorce, I just…” Just didn’t know how to live the days ahead. Perhaps she was immature, but that didn’t mean she didn’t want to be a good wife and mother.
Tao’s mother was at her wit’s end, having tried to persuade her daughter until her lips were sore. She knew her daughter’s temperament best; once she got stubborn, no one could pull her back. Just as they were talking, Tao’s father pushed open the door, signaling to his wife. “Lele’s mom, come out for a moment.”
“What’s up?” Tao’s mother got up and walked towards the door.
Tao’s father pulled his wife out, signaling with his eyes, “Oh, it’s just that…” Tao’s mother immediately understood and quickly closed the door to leave. Inside, their precious daughter hadn’t been persuaded, and now another one was here; she couldn’t rest for a moment.
Sure enough, as soon as she stepped out, she saw Su Yiwen standing in the living room, looking solemn. “Yiwen, have you had breakfast? Shall I make you something?” Tao’s mother decided to employ a delaying tactic.
Su Yiwen managed a weak smile, “Mom, no need, I’ve eaten.”
“Oh, I see… Then, please sit for a while.” Tao’s mother didn’t know what else to say.
Su Yiwen looked towards the small room, his dark eyes deep with concern. “Lele, she—”
“She just got up, watching TV,” Tao’s mother was torn, wanting to let her son-in-law in, but her daughter’s temper and the baby in her womb… Both the adults and the child couldn’t be stressed.
Su Yiwen sighed, “Mom, I’ve caused you trouble these days… I haven’t taken good care of her.”
Tao’s mother felt for her weary son-in-law and gently advised, “Yiwen, we’re family, don’t say that. Lele is still young, there are many things she doesn’t understand. I’ll talk to her later, don’t overthink it.”
“It’s my fault, she’s right to be angry.”
