Divorced

Lin Youyou was lounging in bed, scrolling through her phone in the hotel.

When she received a message from Xu Huanshan, she was quite surprised. He had only just left not too long ago.

Lin Youyou's mind immediately began to speculate.

She informed the downstairs staff to send Xu Huanshan up.

A short while later, a knock sounded at the door. Lin Youyou opened it to see Xu Huanshan, looking distinctly different from his usual self.

She paused, then stepped aside to let him in. "What's wrong?"

Xu Huanshan didn't answer. He kicked the door shut, scooped Lin Youyou into his arms, and tumbled onto the bed.

After a passionate encounter, they lay on the bed.

After a period of silence, Xu Huanshan said, "Gu Jia found out."

Lin Youyou was stunned by the news. She had only assumed they were having a fight, but she never expected Gu Jia to discover them. Coupled with Xu Huanshan coming to find her, the implication was obvious.

Secretly delighted, she still asked, "What was the result?"

"Divorce tomorrow."

"And us?"

Xu Huanshan pondered for a long moment. "Let's talk about it later."

Despite her disappointment, the news of Xu Huanshan's impending divorce still thrilled her.

The next day, Gu Jia had drunk quite a lot the previous day and had fallen asleep in the living room.

Wang Yan returned from his run with some breakfast and woke Xu Ziyan to eat.

Xu Ziyan also exercised daily and was full of energy. While children naturally loved to sleep, he had slept enough and was just rolling around in bed, reluctant to get up.

Wang Yan only had to call him once, and Xu Ziyan got up immediately, completely free of morning grumpiness.

When Xu Ziyan came out, he was surprised to see Gu Jia sleeping in the living room.

He sometimes slept over at Wang Yan's place, but her mother had never stayed overnight.

"Dad, why is Mom here?"

"She got drunk. Your dad had something to do and wasn't home, so she just stayed here for the night. Alright, hurry up and eat."

Xu Ziyan was sensible and knew Gu Jia was drunk, so he spoke softly, afraid of waking her.

After the father and son finished eating, Wang Yan packed Xu Ziyan's things and drove him to school.

When he returned, Gu Jia had already woken up and was taking a shower.

The morning is the start of the day, and Wang Yan felt a bit restless. However, he managed to restrain himself. After today, he could do whatever he wanted; there was no need to rush.

When Gu Jia finished her shower, Wang Yan gestured to the porridge on the table. "Eat a little. You must feel uncomfortable; take your time to recover."

"Okay."

Nodding, she sat down at the table and began to eat her porridge.

After finishing breakfast and tidying up, Wang Yan asked, "Do you want me to accompany you?"

"No, I can manage on my own. Besides, it might not be good if you two meet." With a gentle smile, Gu Jia leaned forward and kissed Wang Yan before leaving.

Feeling the lingering warmth on his lips and watching Gu Jia's retreating back, Wang Yan's lips curved upwards, his eyes filled with a smile.

Old Wang, time to make your move.

Gu Jia left and returned to her apartment on the twelfth floor to retrieve various documents. She then called Xu Huanshan, arranging to meet him at a law firm they had previously worked with.

Upon arriving, she found a familiar lawyer and explained the specific terms, asking him to draft an agreement.

After waiting for a while, Xu Huanshan arrived late, with Lin Youyou in tow.

Wang Yan wasn't there. If he were, he would have given Xu Huanshan a thumbs-up, praising him for his guts and calling him a real man.

This action was understandable. It was merely a show of dominance.

Look how young and beautiful the woman I found is, so much better than you, a faded old hag. I can't live without you, Gu Jia? Let me show you my capabilities; I'll be even better without you.

However, doing this truly showed a disregard for the years they had spent together. After so many years as a couple, it was a rather ruthless act.

This was also the greatest mockery of Gu Jia. The relationship she had protected for so many years was a joke.

Just two days ago, they were still a model couple, deeply in love with Gu Jia. Even earlier, at her thirtieth birthday banquet, he had loudly declared his love and affection. And now, only a few days later, yesterday he was still begging for forgiveness with sweet words, and today he brings another woman in front of Gu Jia? And at the very occasion of their divorce agreement signing?

Perhaps he had been suppressed by Gu Jia for too long? Once free from his cage, Xu Huanshan, now on top, wanted to anger Gu Jia?

It wasn't as if he was completely brainless. He and Gu Jia hadn't reached a point of no return. Lin Youyou must have played a role in this.

Xu Huanshan looked refreshed, and Lin Youyou was smug. They walked arm-in-arm in front of Gu Jia.

Stopping before Gu Jia, Xu Huanshan said, "Gu Jia, let me introduce you, this is..."

Honestly, Gu Jia had felt a bit sad and reluctant before. But seeing the two approaching from a distance, her sorrow turned to ashes, and Gu Jia felt nothing.

Of course, she was angry, but that was only for a moment. Once it passed, it was over.

She didn't even matter to them, so why would she be sad and sentimental, thinking so much uselessly? She immediately let go.

"No need, I'm not interested in knowing who she is."

Gu Jia showed no respect, not even sparing the two of them a glance.

She had no intention of teaching them a lesson now. In this situation, not scolding them was already being generous.

Lin Youyou's expression was a little ugly, but thinking that she had brought down the legal wife, she once again wore a triumphant smile. Just a loser, she magnanimously decided not to bother with them.

Xu Huanshan saw Gu Jia's expression. His goal had been achieved, and he felt a little smug.

Just then, the lawyer came out: "Sister Gu, this is the agreement I drafted according to your requirements. Please take a look and see if there are any issues."

Gu Jia took it and handed a copy to Xu Huanshan: "Take a look. If there are no problems, sign it. Let's hurry, we still need to go to the Civil Affairs Bureau later."

Xu Huanshan read it carefully. This concerned his future marital bliss, so he couldn't be careless.

He had already told Lin Youyou about the division of property yesterday. She would definitely want more. But she wasn't a fool either. The couple had built it up together, and it was basically all shared, so it should be fifty-fifty. Gu Jia only asked for a tea factory and some other things, which was already enough.

If she caused trouble and went through legal proceedings, Xu Huanshan might not even get half of it. Xu Huanshan would still have reason to be upset with her. It was a foregone conclusion, not something she could change with a tantrum.

It was made clear yesterday, and the agreement was drafted as discussed last night, with some other minor, unimportant details.

After reading it and finding no issues, Xu Huanshan signed it.

Gu Jia had already finished her part. Seeing him sign, she put away the contract, threw out a "See you at the Civil Affairs Bureau," and left with her bag.

She was now eager to finish and leave. Seeing those two lingering in front of her was too irritating.

The Civil Affairs Bureau was crowded, with many people whether they were divorcing or getting married.

After waiting for a long time, it was finally their turn.

The staff member, as usual, tried to persuade them, advising against divorce, as being together was fate. If he could persuade one couple to reconcile, he could enjoy an extra bowl of rice for dinner.

Both parties stated that no persuasion was needed; the divorce was decided. The staff member shook his head and began processing the paperwork without another word.

With all the documents complete and the divorce agreement signed, the distribution of marital property was clear, and there was no squabbling over assets.

The process went very smoothly.

With a "click," the steel stamp was pressed onto the divorce certificates, finally marking the end of their marriage.

Xu Huanshan looked at the divorce certificate in front of him, feeling empty. He didn't feel the expected relief, but rather a profound sense of loss.

If not for Xu Huanshan's earlier behavior, Gu Jia might have shed a few tears. But now, without any lingering thoughts, she truly felt relieved.

Exiting the Civil Affairs Bureau, Xu Huanshan forced himself to appear strong, not wanting Gu Jia to see his weakness.

Gu Jia said to the struggling Xu Huanshan: "Go back and pack up. Once the house is sold, transfer the money to me."

As for their earlier arrogance, honestly, she had considered telling Xu Huanshan about her relationship with Wang Yan as a counterattack.

But she gave up after thinking about it. Firstly, it would create unnecessary complications and lead to more trouble. Secondly, it wasn't something to be proud of, so what was there to compare?

Besides, all that elaborate scheming for a temporary bout of pride was meaningless. Living one's own life well was the right way.

She called Wang Yan, asked where he was, and then drove to find him.

After Gu Jia left in the morning, Wang Yan had set out.

At this moment, he was in a building not far from Junyue Mansion, called Tianyue Mansion.

Although the previous house was not small and was more than enough for three people, it only had one bedroom and one study. Now, it would be inconvenient for him, Gu Jia, and the child.

Wang Yan had long had this in mind, and the house was already prepared.

The house was valued at a little over 100 million yuan. It was a second-hand property, and the renovation alone would take half a year to a year, which was too long. When he first came, he didn't have that much cash. Later, he mortgaged the Junyue Mansion property for over 20 million yuan and used it in the market. He didn't pay the full amount for so much money; he took out a loan of about 50 million. Wouldn't the profit from using that money be higher than the loan interest?

This house was the penthouse duplex Gu Jia had envied. It had a prime river view and excellent vistas. It was two floors above the 23rd floor, with an open-air garden on the top floor. Overall, it was quite good.

He had always preferred high-rise buildings because he particularly enjoyed the feeling of looking down, that condescending gaze. Perhaps when his perspective broadened in the future and he saw mountains as mountains again, he would prefer to stand on solid ground? Who could say for sure.

The previous renovation style was fresh and clean, which he found quite pleasing and aligned with his aesthetic. After buying it, he modified some of the layout, dividing it into functional areas such as children's rooms, a nanny's room, a gym, storage, activity rooms, and entertainment areas, and redecorated some parts.

Now, it was just finished and ready for occupancy.

Gu Jia drove to Tianyue Mansion.

Wang Yan had given instructions earlier. After Gu Jia showed her ID downstairs, the property management staff issued her an access card.

She swiped her card in the elevator to the 23rd floor, where Wang Yan was already waiting at the door.

Upon entering the apartment and seeing the interior, Gu Jia was somewhat surprised.

Gu Jia knew the quality of Tianyue Mansion; it was even better than Junyue Mansion. She could roughly estimate what kind of home this penthouse would be. Although she was aware of Wang Yan's capabilities, the impact of him owning a property worth over 100 million yuan was still immense.

"We'll all three live here from now on. What do you think, do you like it?"

Gu Jia nodded, hugged Wang Yan, and gave him a kiss. She was also excited. She had been envious when she saw the duplex Mrs. Wang lived in. Now that she would live here, her dream would come true.

She pulled Wang Yan around to see everything. She couldn't find any fault with the layout, decoration, or even the renovation. She was extremely satisfied.

The melancholy after the divorce vanished without a trace. Xu Huanshan? Get lost.

She had waited in line at the Civil Affairs Bureau for a long time, and it was almost evening. Xu Ziyan would be getting out of school soon.

"Wang Yan, let's go pick up Ziyan together."

"Come back, we'll buy some groceries nearby, and I'll cook a feast."

They had known each other for so long, but <Wang Yan> had never tasted her cooking. Today, he would get to see what a virtuous wife and loving mother was like.

"This can also be a celebration of my new life and our move to a new home."

<Wang Yan> naturally agreed, "Okay, I'll listen to you. Let's go."

They immediately got in the car and set off with <Gu Jia>.

After picking up the child and buying groceries, they finally returned home.

Upon entering, <Xu Ziyan> was stunned. In his short few years, he had never seen such a large house. "Wow, it's so big! Mom, Dad, will we live here from now on?"

<Gu Jia> nodded, "Yes. Come and see, do you like it?"

The child, being innocent, spoke the truth, "I like it."

"Then where will Daddy live?"

<Gu Jia> fell silent. She felt a bit sorry for the child and didn't know how to explain it.

Seeing her silence, <Wang Yan> stepped in. "Ziyan, do you know what divorce is?"

He wasn't afraid of <Xu Ziyan> being hit hard. Children these days were precocious. While he might not understand the deeper meaning, he at least knew that his parents and he couldn't live together. Moreover, <Wang Yan> had been with him for so long and understood him.

When <Xu Ziyan> heard <Wang Yan>, he asked, "Mom and Dad are divorced?"

<Wang Yan> nodded, "Your mom and dad weren't happy living together, so they separated. From now on, the three of us will live together."

"But if you miss your dad, you can still see him anytime."

It was time to see the results of his efforts. He had been with the child for so long, after all. Some of the children in kindergarten had divorced parents, but they seemed happy and didn't make a fuss. His dad had also said he could see him anytime he wanted, it wasn't like he would never see him again. Besides, compared to <Xu Huanshan>, he preferred <Wang Yan>, so he didn't take it to heart.

<Xu Ziyan> thought for a moment and said, "Oh, then I understand. I think living together is great! I've wanted to be with Dad for a long time."

Children's attention spans were short, and their memories weren't that strong. If <Wang Yan> put in a little more effort, <Xu Huanshan> might be completely forgotten within a month.

Hearing that <Xu Ziyan> wasn't resistant, <Gu Jia> glanced at <Wang Yan> and let out a long sigh. "Okay, Ziyan, you and your dad go see your room. Mom will start cooking."

Then she busied herself in the kitchen.

<Wang Yan> took <Xu Ziyan> to see his room, which also had a dedicated play area. This delighted <Xu Ziyan> immensely; he had never seen a room full of toys belonging to him.

Afterward, the two of them wandered around the house, <Xu Ziyan> poking at this and that, finding everything new and exciting.

After a while, <Gu Jia> finally finished cooking. "Dinner is ready! You two, stop wandering around, wash your hands, and come eat."

Going up and down the three floors had tired <Xu Ziyan> out. Hearing <Gu Jia> call them for dinner, he was very enthusiastic.

After <Wang Yan> took him to wash his hands, the three sat down at the dining table and began their first meal in their new life.

<Gu Jia> scooped a piece of food for <Xu Ziyan> and then said to <Wang Yan>, "<Wang Yan>, try this. See how it tastes."

<Wang Yan> picked up his chopsticks, took a piece of braised carp, and chewed. "Mmm, not bad. It's as good as any top chef in a fancy restaurant."

Anyone would be happy to have their cooking recognized and praised, let alone <Wang Yan> praising <Gu Jia>.

<Gu Jia> smiled gently and scooped another piece of food for <Wang Yan>. "If you like it, eat more. Here, try this one."

"From now on, I'll cook for you two often."

The meal was filled with laughter and conversation, a harmonious atmosphere.

After dinner, <Wang Yan> and <Gu Jia> played with <Xu Ziyan> for a long time.

<Xu Ziyan> was immersed in the joy of moving into the big house and couldn't help himself. The space was large enough, and he pulled them into a game of hide-and-seek.

This kind of harmonious atmosphere was something <Gu Jia> and <Xu Ziyan> hadn't experienced in a long time. Everyone was happy.

After playing for a long time, <Xu Ziyan> was tired. <Gu Jia> bathed him and coaxed him to sleep.

She went to the master bedroom on the top floor and found <Wang Yan> on the balcony, looking at the scenery.

They looked at each other, and with <Gu Jia> exclaiming "Aiya!", he scooped her up.

<Wang Yan> lit his usual post-coital cigarette. Two words: satisfying.

After some sweet talk, <Wang Yan>, content, held <Gu Jia> and fell into a deep sleep.

Thanks to Brother (Virus Scan) for the monthly ticket support.

Daily thanks to all the good brothers who recommended.

Thanks to all the good brothers who commented and those who only read the book without commenting.

Thank you all for your great love for your younger brother.