When Emma was born, my in-laws took her away, claiming it was to give me and Daniel time to bond and then quickly try for a son who could one day inherit the family estate.
For years, I was forced to drink bitter herbal medicines, enduring their constant scorn. How could I have time to bond with Emma?
Clutching the hem of my clothes tightly, I said firmly,
“I want a divorce. I don’t want anything—not even custody of the child. All you need to do is sign.”
Daniel froze, clearly not expecting me to say that.
His expression darkened, anger flickering in his eyes.
“Sophia, do you even know what you’re saying?”
“I don’t have time to argue with you. The company needs me—I’m leaving.”
Chloe cast me a triumphant look.
“Madam, you really shouldn’t throw around divorce so casually. You don’t have a job, and the CEO is working this hard just to give you and Emma a good life.”
“That U.S. company is still waiting for us. We’re leaving.”
Once again, I blocked the doorway.
“I told you, the divorce agreement must be signed today. I don’t care how important the deal is. If you don’t sign, you’re not leaving.”
Just then, a figure appeared.
Mr. Robert Collins, who had been in the piano room, walked out.
His face showed discomfort, and when he looked at me, there was clear impatience in his eyes.
“Madam, forgive me for being blunt, but please stop making a fuss.
Whenever Emma had piano lessons, it was always Ms. Chloe who accompanied her. Whenever Emma struggled, it was Ms. Chloe who comforted her.
Now that Emma has won a prize, of course she wants to thank Ms. Chloe. After all, it’s just one piano piece.
If you don’t spend time with your child, it’s natural she won’t feel close to you. As long as you start being there for her, she will recognize your efforts.”
Mr. Collins was Emma’s piano teacher.
Emma had loved piano music since she was little. Daniel once said it was because she inherited it from me, and he smiled so happily when he said that.
When Emma was three, Daniel hired Mr. Collins, one of the best piano teachers, for her.
At first, I accompanied Emma during practice, but every time she saw me, she would cry and fuss.
I could only watch her secretly from a distance.
Mr. Collins had often comforted me, telling me that Emma was simply too young and that once she got used to me, things would be different.
But now, even he stood on their side to reproach me.
Daniel let out a cold laugh.