Ethan Yu's gaze turned dangerously sharp.
He walked toward her—every step carrying a suffocating weight.
Hailey met his eyes head-on, calm and unshaken.
But Ethan wasn't fooled. He'd seen her act before.
It was her "performance" that had tricked everyone, forcing him into a marriage he never wanted.
He leaned in close, his voice ice-cold. "You really want a divorce?"
"I do," Hailey answered without hesitation.
"Ha. Is this fun for you, Hailey Tang? Playing games with me?"
"I'm not playing." Her voice was steady. "If you don't believe me, I'll sign the divorce papers right now. I don't want a cent. I just want out."
His fingers suddenly clamped around her jaw.
Those dark, piercing eyes were full of scorn. "You want a divorce now? Because you think I can't afford to give it to you?"
Hailey froze.
That's right.
Ethan's company had just gone public in the U.S. He couldn't afford a scandal. A divorce now would create shockwaves.
Especially since Hailey wasn't just anyone—she was the daughter of the Tang family. If word got out, people would think Ethan had offended the Tangs. The media would have a field day.
His stock would crash. Investors would panic.
So yes—this was the worst possible time.
That's why, even in her past life, he had held on. Not out of affection, but necessity.
Hailey took a breath. "We can sign the papers and keep it private. Announce it when the time is right."
Ethan narrowed his eyes. "And when, exactly, do you think the time will be right?"
"In a year or two. After you've established yourself overseas."
It was a logical suggestion.
But Ethan Yu never took risks.
Once the papers were signed, it would be out of his control. What if she leaked it?
He sneered, "You think secrets never get out?"
"But—"
"Stop wasting your breath," he snapped. "You can't manipulate me anymore. You're just a clown in my eyes."
Hailey rolled her eyes. "Do you really think I'm doing this to trick you? I'm not. I just don't love you anymore."
He didn't even blink. "Good. Remember that."
Straightening up, he looked down on her with icy contempt. "When I'm ready for a divorce, I'll let you know."
With that, he turned and walked away.
Hailey chased after him. "I'm serious, Ethan! I want this now!"
But he didn't look back.
He thought it was all an act—just another move in her endless game of love and revenge.
But it wasn't.
Not this time.