Why didn’t she hate him? She didn’t dare to think too deeply, only telling him, and herself, “I don’t hate you, because I promised my father I wouldn’t hate you, or Di Ying.” Her voice was weak, clearly self-deceiving.
When she said she didn’t hate him, he thought he would feel relieved, believing she had forgiven his past. But at that moment, he felt heartbroken, as if his heart had been hollowed out, the emptiness making him feel cold.
Her lack of hatred was indifferent, as if he had never existed in her life. Whether the warmth he once gave her was false or deeply hurtful, it had left no trace. He now wished she would hate him. At least then, she would have some emotion towards him, rather than being as indifferent as a stranger. Even hate would be better than nothing; it would occupy more space in her memories than whoever she might love in the future, because hate is more memorable than love.
Looking into his deep eyes, clouded and sorrowful, she sensed a lingering gentleness within him.
She averted her gaze, attempting to erase his sorrow. After several deep breaths, she felt his soft fingertips touch her, reminiscent of a mother’s caress.
“Xuan Xuan,” he called her with tenderness, stirring feelings of jealousy within her. Though he was calling her by that name, she identified as Ou Xueman.
“Let’s get a divorce,” she stated decisively, like a sword piercing his heart. For a moment, his heartbeat ceased, and when it resumed, each beat felt painful.
He slowly rose and moved away, hesitant to leave. Facing the window in silence, he sighed and said, “I won’t divorce you. Even if you go to court, I’ll have my lawyer fight to the end. Proving you are Tong Yixuan will take considerable effort.”
“Why? Why are you so persistent about this marriage that was once just a move for you?”
Ou Xueman shouted at him, “Is it because of your so-called protection? I don’t need it. I believe Brother Yifeng can protect me.”
Her words struck him painfully, causing him to clutch his chest.
