Chapter 3

Vivian and I flanked my mother-in-law, one on each side. Everyone’s eyes lingered on me with curiosity. I could hear whispers spreading around the room. "Did Madeline suddenly change? This isn’t like her at all." "She would’ve flipped the table before—why is she being so quiet today?" While everyone was busy chattering, my mother-in-law beamed with joy and announced to the guests, "I have good news to share! My daughter-in-law, Vivian, is already three months pregnant. "The family doctor confirmed it’s a boy. This is truly a double celebration for the Carters!" The guests started offering polite congratulations. Honestly, for families in high society, news like this was nothing out of the ordinary. But to humiliate me, the legitimate wife, like this? Only the Carters would go so far. Vivian blushed, shy but proud. Eric wrapped his arm around her, looking as happy as could be. And me? I felt like a clown, just another sideshow at this birthday party. At last, I said, "I’d planned to wait until after Mom’s birthday to talk about our divorce. "But now that Vivian is pregnant, we can’t let her child grow up without a proper name or status. He can’t be a child born out of wedlock. "So actually, it’s best to talk about divorce right here and now." I glanced at the lawyer not far away. She immediately understood and handed the divorce papers to Eric. Eric frowned, looking at me in disbelief. "Are you making trouble again?" I gave a calm, even smile. "I’m serious. If you love Vivian, are you really going to make her live as a mistress for the rest of her life?" My composure stunned him. For a second, disbelief flooded his dark eyes. Once upon a time, he thought I’d never leave him—even if it killed me. But now, here I was—calmly and firmly asking for a divorce. He was completely speechless. He loved Vivian so much, he’d never say a single word to hurt her. The entire room went silent, all eyes fixed on Eric Carter, waiting for his reaction. Vivian stared at him, unblinking. He hesitated for only two seconds before Vivian broke down, putting on her best aggrieved, self-sacrificing act. "Eric, you don’t have to force yourself," she said, feigning composure. "I know I’m not from the same background as you. I’ll end this pregnancy. I can be the other woman if I have to. "But honestly, I can’t stand the thought of my child being called a bastard. So, I’ll just get rid of the baby." Eric panicked and tried to comfort her right away. "No, you can’t do that! This baby is our love, my very first child! "No one will ever call him illegitimate—I’ll make sure he has a real name and a proper place in this family!" I deliberately put on a satisfied expression. "Now that’s what I call a real man. Go ahead—sign the papers." Under the pressure from both me and Vivian, Eric picked up the pen. Without even glancing at the papers, he signed his name on the divorce agreement. He leaned close to me, voice just for me, "Once Vivian gives birth, I’ll remarry you. Just be patient. I’m not going to leave you behind." I stayed calm, finally letting out the breath I’d been holding, as if a huge weight had lifted off my chest. Eric Carter, I don’t want you anymore. Not ever again.