Seven Days

"Review this divorce agreement and sign it if all is in order."

At the entrance of the Sunglow Hotel, Ashton Baldwin paused and looked at the speaker—his wife, Emalee James.

It was Bobby James' birthday today. Ashton had faced many challenges to find a perfect gift and to arrive on time.

Yet, instead of receiving a warm greeting, Emalee presented him with divorce papers.

Ashton managed a strained smile and gently lowered her hand that clutched the document.

"Emalee, it's your grandfather's birthday today. There are many guests around. This isn't the time for jokes like this," he said, chuckling nervously.

However, his smile froze immediately after he finished speaking.

A chill of coldness and repulsion in Emalee's gaze struck him, something he had never witnessed before.

"This is no joke. Sign the divorce papers and leave," she declared firmly.

Desperation crept into Ashton's voice as his hope dwindled. "Why? Is this about your old flame?"

Upon his question, Emalee merely nodded, and then handed him a bank card.

"You already know why. No more words are necessary. There's money on this card. Think of it as a settlement. Sign it, take the money, and we're done," she stated icily.

Ashton's mouth twitched, but before he could respond, a mocking tone interrupted him.

"Emalee! Just divorce him already. Why bother with a settlement? Does this loser even merit that?"

Tristan James, Emalee's younger brother, had come over, wearing a look of contempt.

Locking eyes with Ashton, Tristan raised an eyebrow and scoffed, "What are you staring at? Did I offend? Remember, the James family holds a notable reputation in Inewood. My sister, a CEO, is both skilled and stunning! And you, Ashton, have proven to be an utter nonentity. What have you contributed in these two years other than sponging off us? Do you really believe you deserve her?"

He turned to look at his sister and added, "Rather than wasting money on him, Emalee, you should let me use it for a new car. At least that would be of some use!"

Emalee exhaled softly, a hint of resignation in her voice. "Ashton may not have shown much capability, but we are married, after all. Just let him take this money as his compensation."

These words left Ashton feeling both sad and powerless.

It appeared he had merely been a substitute in Emalee's life.

How could she understand that his choice to underperform was intentional?

Ashton was fully capable of eclipsing others if he desired.

Yet, he feared his success might revive Emalee's insecurities, reminding her of her talented first love who had once left her.

Choosing to suppress his abilities, Ashton had supported Emalee, allowing her to be the one to shine.

Despite his efforts to cultivate their love over two years, it was not enough to touch Emalee's heart.

Now, with her first love back, she was ready to end their marriage?

The absurdity of it made his heart sink.

People's affections, he realized, could indeed be fleeting.

"Emalee, I must ask you one final time. Are you certain you want to end our marriage?" he inquired, his voice tinged with a chill.

Emalee nodded decisively.