Today marked her third wedding anniversary with Richard. She had excitedly prepared a lavish meal to celebrate, only to be greeted by these divorce papers.

What an 'unexpected' surprise!

"If there's something you're unhappy with, let me know," Richard said, looking down at her like a ruthless businessman negotiating a deal.

Vanessa skimmed through the document. The compensation was generous-prime commercial property, a villa in the city, and an additional fifty million dollars. All told, the assets were worth at least a hundred million, ensuring a lifetime of comfort.

After three years of a loveless, sexless marriage and getting a hundred-million-dollar payout, what was there to complain about by any rational measure?

But she hadn't married Richard for the money.

After a long silence, Richard lit a cigarette and held it between his thin lips. He took a deep drag and narrowed his eyes before speaking again, "Bring up any dissatisfaction you have."

Vanessa looked up into his cold eyes and asked softly, "In these three years, was there ever a moment when your heart stirred for me?"

"No."

His answer was succinct, without a shred of hesitation, extinguishing the last glimmer of hope in her heart. It felt like her heart had been crushed under a dull blade, the pain dull and persistent.

"I see."

Her lashes fluttered, concealing the moistness in her eyes. But it was fleeting before her face resumed its gentle, tranquil smile.

"I made your favorite dishes. Will you join me for one last dinner?"

Richard frowned without responding.

Blinking back tears, Vanessa served Richard his food.

Just then, Richard received a phone call.

"Richard, it hurts so much. Can you come to the hospital to be with me, please?"

A soft female voice came through the phone. Vanessa was near enough to hear everything clearly. Her fingers curled up tightly.

"Alright, be good, and I'll come over now. Let me know what you want to eat, and I'll bring it for you."

The tenderness in his voice was something she had never heard before. Vanessa's expression dimmed. This must be the difference between love and not!

Seeing him about to leave, she quickly grabbed his sleeve, a hint of desperation in her voice, "Will you stay and finish dinner with me before you go?"

"Don't be unreasonable," Richard said, coldly brushing her hand away and exiting without a backward glance.

Unable to hold back, Vanessa covered her aching heart, and hot tears rolled down her cheeks.

Richard approached her three years ago, asking her to marry him. Having secretly admired him, she had agreed without hesitation.

After marriage, she became a full-time housewife, tending to him. Even though Richard didn't touch her, his presence was enough to make her happy.

Half a month ago, his father passed away. After helping Richard handle the funeral arrangements, Vanessa noticed him coming home less and less until tonight when he asked for a divorce - because his sweetheart, Charlie Cattrall, had returned to the country.

She sat numbly in the living room until her body stiffened with cold before finally getting up to throw the cooled food into the trash and her shattered heart.

After a shower, she lay in bed in a room that still smelled of Richard's cologne, sleep eluding her.