The Hundredth Tear: End of Our Marriage

Jackson started, "Hendery, I heard you got into another fight with Rosalind? I'm not trying to nag you, but you shouldn't be so petty.

"She's just a little willful and spends a bit freely. You make good money, so what's the problem if she spends more of it?"

He continued to blab, the watch on his wrist flashing as he gestured around. "And honestly, where are you going to find another gorgeous wife if you really get divorced now?"

I did make good money, but it came from sleepless nights and endless negotiations. They were from projects I won by trading away my youth and energy.

Most of my fights with Rosalind started because of Jackson. And yet, he stuck on like chewed gum—sticky, sour, and completely lacking self-awareness.

Even if I divorced her, with my resources and position, it wouldn't be hard for me to find someone better.

I snatched the teacup away from his lips and smashed it onto the floor.

I said, "Let's get things straight. Firstly, my money didn't fall out of the sky. I don't mind if she spends it on herself, but you know better than I do where my money actually goes. I'm not stupid. I don't have extra cash to spend on a homewrecker who can't even figure out his own role.

"And secondly, you know exactly why Rosalind and I fight. Whether you're here to make peace or stir things up, you'd know best. And my tea is expensive. It's not something you're worthy to drink."

Jackson's expression darkened immediately. He shot to his feet, jabbed a finger right at my nose, and started cursing at me.

He yelled, "How dare you look down on me when you're nothing but a useless piece of trash with some money? Rosalind is willingly spending money on me. Who do you think you are to get mad about it?

"Even though my parents are dead, Rosalind's parents still took me in as their godson. Go ahead and divorce her if you've got the guts. Let's see who wants a washed-up older guy like you after that!"

I frowned.

Truth was, I hadn't interacted with Jackson much before this. Every time we met, he'd sit quietly to the side, looking harmless.

Now, it was obvious that it had all been an act.

Just as I was about to retaliate, Jackson's expression suddenly changed as if he'd seen something. Tears started welling up in his eyes as he dropped to his knees.

He started sobbing, "I know my presence has caused problems between you and Rosalind, Hendery. Please don't blame her. If you're angry, just take it out on me. Just please… Don't divorce her. She still loves you a lot."

I was perplexed at his sudden change when an angry voice exploded behind me. "Do you have no shame, Hendery? I thought you had some backbone when you moved out after our fight, but you're now coming here to bully Jackson? I really misjudged you!"

Rosalind rushed forward and grabbed Jackson's arm. "Don't bother apologizing to someone like him. He's not worth it. Don't worry. I've got your back no matter what!"

Jackson lowered his head, as if he wouldn't get up unless I forgave him. He said softly, "Rosalind, if my presence is affecting your marriage with Hendery, then I'll stop seeing you. I really don't want to put you in a difficult position."

Rosalind only grew angrier. She glared at me and barked, "Hendery! If you have a problem, just take it up with me! Don't drag innocent people into this!

"Do you think we'd be fighting like this if you could just be a decent husband and focus on your family? Now apologize to Jackson, and maybe then I'll consider not divorcing you!"