The Kiss that Sparked it All

Chapter 1710
“Sure, I left you, and our living conditions took a dive, but don’t worry your pretty little head. My daughter and I won’t starve. What
are you doing here? Spit it out or skedaddle; don’t you dare interrupt our supper!”
Thaddeus felt pain in his chest after hearing his usually gentle wife snap at him like this. He sighed, took a seat, and softened his
tone a bit. “Alright, have you finished your tantrum yet? We’re not spring chickens anymore, so why are you acting so damn
stubborn? Finish up this junk food and come home with me.”
Bertha held a half-eaten pizza in her hand.
Then she had to put it down to fire back at him. “Thaddeus, did you not hear what I said the other day, or did you simply choose
to ignore it?!”
Thaddeus looked innocent. “When have I ever ignored what you said? Bertha, can’t we just stop this nonsense?”
Bertha took a sip from her daughter’s soda. “I told you that I want a divorce. Have you forgotten? If we’re getting a divorce, we
obviously need to start by living separately. Why should I go back with you?”
Thaddeus frowned. “Divorce? Bertha, we don’t have any marital problems. Why on earth would we get a divorce? I admit I was
in a bad mood that day and didn’t speak kindly to you and Lea, but surely that’s not a reason to actually divorce me.”
Bertha laughed sarcastically. “A minor issue? You still think the reason I’m upset is some minor inconvenience to you. Thaddeus,
what have I gained from being with you all these years? Everyone thinks I’m living a life of luxury because I’m with you, but what
luxury have I enjoyed? Can you tell me?”
Thaddeus opened his mouth, but no words came out.
Bertha glared at him. “Can’t find the words, can you? Because you know better than anyone that life with you hasn’t been a walk
in the park.
Your eldest daughter has always believed that I married you for your money and status, and she’s been condescending and
awful to me for years. I’ve always tried to keep the peace for you and curry her favor, hoping to be a good stepmother.
But how does your daughter treat our daughter? She’s always seen Lea as a threat, thinking that I had Lea to compete with her
for the inheritance. I’ve always taught Lea not to bicker with her sister and not to compete with her.

Lea is a good girl. She’s never thought about fighting with Sophia over anything. But you, as a father, just take it for granted. You
make it seem like if she doesn’t fight, she doesn’t get anything. You’re in such a hurry to hand over all the assets to Sophia. It’s
like you’re afraid that when Lea comes of age, things will get messy. Are you afraid that Lea will change her mind and fight with
your precious firstborn?
Well, let me tell you, Lea and I don’t care for your stuff, but your blatant favoritism is infuriating!”
With a stern face, Thaddeus tried to interject.
However, Bertha cut him off. “I’m sure you think I’m hypocritical now. I said I didn’t want anything, and now I’m angry because
you’re not giving me anything, right?
Well, think whatever you like! I’m determined to divorce you and fight for everything that should belong to Lea! Then I’ll respect
her wishes, donate it to those in need, and let her accumulate good karma! I can bear the burden, but my daughter can’t!”
Thaddeus’ face showed a range of mixed emotions. He pulled out a cigar case from his pocket, took out a cigar, and was about
to light it.
Suddenly, Bertha snatched the cigar from his mouth and tossed it into the trash. “If you want to smoke, go outside! This pigeon
coop may not be to your liking, but it’s my friend’s beloved home! Don’t stink up my friend’s furniture! I don’t want my daughter to
be harmed by your second-hand smoke!”