Ending Our Marriage Over a Plush Toy

“Anyone with a conscience would be disgusted by a thankless bastard like you.” Dariel clapped back. His tone was growing even more arrogant.

“You came from nothing, and yet Veronica didn’t look down on you. She even arranged a job for you in her family's company.”

“If it weren’t for the Campbell family, would you be living the good life you have now? Would you even be sitting in the president’s chair?”

Smack!

I slapped him across the face without hesitation.

“You’re just an assistant. Know your place and keep your mouth shut.”

Seeing him hurt, Veronica instantly panicked.

“Miguel, are you insane?! What gives you the right to hit Dariel?”

She shoved me aside and hurried to help Dariel off the ground. Her eyes were full of concern.

“He deserved it,” I said flatly, clenching my fists, utterly unapologetic.

The crowd instantly turned against me.

They began to think my usual calm demeanor was all just an act—deep down, I was nothing but a violent hypocrite.

Dariel lowered his head and said quietly to Veronica, “I’m sorry, Veronica. This is all my fault.”

“I shouldn’t have spoken out of turn. I must have upset Mr. Miguel. Please don’t blame him.”

He looked so guilty and remorseful.

“It’s not your fault,” she replied gently. “I dragged you into this.”

Then she turned to me, her voice low and humble, “Honey, this is between us. Don’t take it out on others.”

“Today is our daughter’s first birthday. Can’t we just get through the day without drama? I’m begging you.”

Tears welled up in her eyes as she spoke.

Her softness.

My aggression.

The contrast couldn’t have been starker.

Naturally, the guests sided with her.

Her father, Franco, took a deep breath and tried to mediate once more.

“Miguel, over the years, you’ve always been hardworking, devoted to the family, and respectful to your elders.”

“There’s no need for things to get this ugly.”

“If you really feel wronged, bring out the evidence. I promise I’ll stand up for you.”

He was giving me an out, but I didn’t take it.

I remained cold and firm. “This marriage is over. I’m divorcing her no matter what.”

At that instant, his expression changed, and a hint of gloom clouded his face.

Veronica looked at me through tears.

“Is there someone else?” she asked, voice quivering.

“Think whatever you want,” I said indifferently. “If that’s what you believe, go ahead.”

“That’s enough!” Franco finally exploded. “Miguel, I’ll give you three days to think this through.”

“Either you go home and act like a husband and father—”

“—or we’ll see you in court. And don’t expect to leave with a dime.”

“Don’t forget, everything you have now came from me.”

The words were harsh and final.

Everyone thought I’d finally give in. But instead, I turned and walked out without hesitation.

Outside, my junior from university, Stella, was already waiting for me.

“I’ve already sent someone to Europe,” she said with a smile. “The answers you want—won’t take long now.”

“Thank you.”

I leaned wearily against the backseat, exhaustion soaking into my bones.

“I’ll be facing Veronica in court in three days,” I added. “I’ll need you to represent me.”

As I spoke, I pulled out my phone and opened a video clip.

In the surveillance footage, Veronica’s beloved teddy bear walked straight out of the side bedroom.

Then—it began dancing in front of the living room camera.

That footage alone was enough to upend everything.

Three days. That’s all I needed.

Originally, I planned to check into a hotel.

But all my bank cards had been frozen.

Only then did I remember—over the past year, control of our finances had slowly shifted back into the Campbell family’s hands.

Even the bank account was now registered under Veronica’s name.

I had thought I was living in a warm and happy family. In reality, I was completely alone.

That night, I crashed at Stella’s place.

The next morning, I returned to the company to collect my things.

The moment I stepped into the lobby, I was bombarded by gossip and whispers from the employees.