Chapter 4

Joy Valentine and Felix Laurent's story began during their time studying abroad.

Back then, the Valentine family was still prosperous, and Joy was a pampered heiress.

They were a perfect match, deeply in love.

But fate had other plans. The Valentine family's business suddenly collapsed.

Crushed by massive debts, they couldn't even afford Joy's tuition.

She had to drop out of school, painfully break up with Felix, and return home in haste.

When we got married, the Valentines were still drowning in financial troubles.

I used my savings to pay off their debts and helped them find jobs through my connections.

Little did I know, these efforts would become a thorn in their hearts.

The Valentines always believed Felix was the ideal son-in-law, and that I had taken advantage of their misfortune.

Today, as they gathered together, it was clear they were reminiscing about the past.

I spoke calmly, "You're right. Felix is indeed a better match for Joy."

I placed the divorce papers on the coffee table and slid them toward Joy.

"Sign it. I'm setting you free."

The living room fell silent.

Mrs. Valentine slammed her teacup, shattering it into pieces.

"Ryan Roland! Do you think the Valentines are pushovers? You think you can marry and divorce my daughter at will?"

Jenny Valentine chimed in shrilly, "Only a weak man resorts to divorce!"

Felix stood up, feigning discomfort.

"Mr. Roland, if my presence has caused any misunderstanding, I'll leave now."

He walked slowly toward the door, deliberately dragging his steps.

Just as he was about to step out, Joy spoke coldly.

"You're not the one who should leave."

Her sharp gaze pierced through me, filled with confidence.

"Divorce? Don't come crawling back to me later!"

She grabbed a pen, signed the papers, and slammed them in front of me.

I collected the documents and turned to leave.

Behind me, Jenny whispered anxiously, "Sis, you just signed it?"

Joy's voice was brimming with confidence, "What's there to fear? He always makes a big fuss but never follows through."

"We've torn up enough divorce papers to wallpaper the house. He'll be back begging in a few days."

She thought this time would be like all the others.

But she didn't know that once a heart is dead, no amount of pleading can bring it back.