Chapter 14 You Made Me Wait for You

• Half a month ago, she contacted him with a phone call.
• "Darling, how many days are left until your return?"
• "Miss me?" His voice on the other end of the phone was low and carried a subtle smile and a touch of playfulness.
• Her face flushed even more as her eyes brimmed with anticipation. Although the person from far away couldn't witness it, he could sense it through her gentle voice, "I want to be with you on your birthday, so will you be home?"
• The sound of typing echoed through the phone. She knew he was busy, and some faint voices were in the background. Still, she anxiously waited for a reply until she finally heard his voice, "I'll rush back. Just wait for me."
• She was filled with joy and contentment during that time. So, she eagerly planned how to celebrate their first birthday together.
• What came of it, though? She waited throughout the entire day, and what was her reward? It was a sight of him celebrating his birthday with another woman captured in a video. They were locked in each other's arms. Did he even consider her patiently waiting for him at home?
• What an unforgettable birthday!
• When Melanie snapped back to reality, Benjamin noticed a drastic shift in her gaze toward him. She realized that the face that once made her blush and her heart race now appeared somewhat repulsive.
• "But you also promised to return and asked me to wait for you."
• Benjamin was slightly taken aback, and his forehead creased slightly. "So, is it because of this that you want a divorce?"
• Melanie's lips tugged at the corner, her gaze steady on his handsome face. "What if I say it is?"
• Benjamin's expression appeared to soften as he spoke in a low voice and explained, "I arrived late that day. As soon as I stepped off the plane, Thomas intercepted me. Usually, we celebrate birthdays together as a group, and I lost track of time. Did you wait for me all night?"
• Melanie's laughter burst out of her lips, and she tilted her head curiously. "A group? Who exactly is included in that?"
• His voice softened as he explained, "It's just a few close people around me. You know them. If you're considering divorce because of this, it's unnecessary. I overindulged that night, and everyone was resting at the club. They weren't aware that you were waiting for me, so they didn't arrange for my return."
• Melanie fixed her gaze on him, her gaze unwavering. She was indeed familiar with the friends in his circle, but what she didn't know was Sophia's presence. He had lied to her and kept it concealed. So, it was with that realization that she averted her gaze and focused on the present.
• "Let's not waste any more time. The officer is about to leave," she said and retracted her arm.
• A shadow crossed Benjamin's face. He wasn't adept at explaining himself, and today and that night were already exceptions. But this woman? She refused to listen to reason. How had he never realized before just how stubborn she could be?
• The officer swiftly checked their identification cards and glanced at them before he offered a slight smile and returned them.
• "I apologize, but I can't proceed with the procedures for both of you. Just moments ago, I received a call from Old Mr. Moore himself. He explicitly instructed me not to assist Mr. Moore as long as he is without the birth certificate, regardless of the circumstances."
• Melanie froze upon hearing this. "Grandpa?"
• "Yes. Why don't you both return and discuss this matter with your family? Seek approval from your parents before returning here?"
• Melanie soon realized the divorce wouldn't be smooth sailing because she lacked the required documents. So, she rose to her feet and departed without saying another word.
• Benjamin maintained his composure as he cast a glance at the staff member. Then, he straightened his tie and adjusted his sleeves gracefully, each emanating air of nobility.
• Outside the City Hall, Melanie started, "Sort it out with Grandpa and Grandma yourself—" However, before she could finish her sentence, she was abruptly interrupted coldly.
• "Why should I?"
• Melanie looked at him with surprise and asked, "Should I figure it out?"
• Benjamin maintained a stony, expressionless gaze as he curled his lips into a smile and responded, "The one who brought up the divorce should resolve it." Then, he fixed a meaningful stare at her. "I will go along with your plan once you do."
• "You…" Melanie watched his back as she clenched her teeth. She was unable to find any words to retort.
• He took a few steps forward but then halted and gazed at her displeased expression with his raised eyebrow.
• "You had gained their approval, so I believe you can also as easily acquire the required documents from Grandpa." After he uttered those words, he observed her visibly dissatisfied expression and felt his mood improving significantly. "Do you need a ride?"
• Melanie maintained a stoic expression as she gazed at him briefly before she turned on her heel and walked away.