Chapter 6

That evening, Cornelia slammed the divorce agreement down in front of Parker. “Let's get a divorce.” Parker acted as if he hadn't heard her, keeping his eyes closed as he continued to fiddle with the bracelet in his hand and recite sutras. Just as Cornelia was about to repeat herself, the phone rang suddenly. It was Mr. Gilbert calling. “Cornelia, the family’s cash flow has suddenly dried up. Are you having a fight with Parker?” “You’re married now, you’re an adult. Don’t be so stubborn. Please, as your father, I’m begging you—try to make things right with Parker, okay?” “Listen to your father. Don’t be stubborn. Lovers’ qurrels are soon mended. Clear up any misunderstandings, and consider about the family…” Mr. Gilbert’s anxious voice echoed in Cornelia’s ears, almost suffocating her. She numbly hummed a few times before hanging up the phone. Seeing Parker’s calm expression, Cornelia’s heart sank to the bottom. “Did you do this?” “Divorce is impossible. Don’t mention it again.” Parker's face remained calm, but his words were astonishing. “I only want one child. If you obey me, everything will be fine.” “Isn't this the company your mother worked so hard to build? Do you really want it to go to waste? Can your mother rest in peace?” Hearing these words, Cornelia felt immense pain. She didn't want to admit it, but Parker had indeed hit her weak spot. She could ignore Mr. Gilbert, but she couldn't ignore her mother's life's work. “Parker, Parker, do you really have to push me to the brink?” She asked, nearly in tears, but Parker didn't respond. A few days later, Cornelia received a message from Parker on her phone. It was a reservation notice for a couple's restaurant, along with a floating image of Gilbert Family Company stock. Nothing else was mentioned. Cornelia didn't even have to think to know that Parker was forcing her to go on a date with Murphy. Perhaps Parker didn't even remember that today was their wedding anniversary. Cornelia felt nothing but irony. The romantic and ambiguous piano music drifted through the couple's restaurant, where only one table was served per floor. Pink, white, and red roses were arranged in various shapes, filled the space and countless heart-shaped balloons floated in the air. Murphy sat in the restaurant waiting for Cornelia. Seeing her fidgeting uneasily after she sat down, he handed her the sliced steak, “Sister, don’t worry. I’ll make my brother give up this idea.” Hearing this, Cornelia relaxed slightly.