I came from an ordinary family, earning my place at a prestigious university through hard work, and after graduation, I started working for a state-owned power company.

In contrast, Jason, the son of retired officials, enjoyed a privileged life from an early age and has now risen to a mid-level management position in a private company.

Since I was the one who confessed my feelings first, I’ve always been the one to compromise in our marriage whenever conflicts arose. And with no children, I often felt I owed something to Jason’s father.

Despite my efforts, it took a long time to calm him down. For the sake of our home, I often swallowed my pride, naively believing that sacrifices would lead to happiness.

However, ever since Gianna was suddenly promoted to be Jason’s boss a month ago, my last illusions were shattered.

Jason began working late frequently, always citing reasons like "coordinating with on the new energy project."

One night, I finally couldn’t hold back any longer and questioned him.

"Is the entire project team relying solely on you? Why is it always you working late?"

Jason accused me of not understanding workplace dynamics.

"Gianna is new to the company and unfamiliar with many processes. As the project lead, it’s my responsibility to assist her, as it’s crucial for the company’s future development."

"You, an employee of a state-owned enterprise, wouldn't understand the pressure we face in the private sector," he said.

After our heated argument, Jason stormed out, his eyes full of contempt. That night, he didn’t come home, and his phone went unanswered.

The next morning, while preparing the bid for an energy project at work, I accidentally saw Jason’s latest update.

It was a photo of him holding hands with Gianna at an upscale business club, captioned:

"Thanks to Director Gianna for her meticulous guidance. The new energy project will surely bring significant returns for the company.

#CareerMentor #NewBeginning"

In the comments, their colleagues were full of praise:

"Mr. Trivett has finally found a mentor—bright prospects ahead!"

"Great partnership, looking forward to your future achievements."

Usually, I would have called Jason immediately to confront him.

But at that moment, I felt utterly drained, suffocated by this marriage.

The drone light show was scheduled to end at nine that evening, but Jason didn’t come home until eleven.

I didn’t want to speculate about what he had been doing during that time.

As soon as he walked in, he embraced me, his voice laced with apology: "Amby, I’m sorry about today…"

I calmly interrupted him: "I understand, work comes first."

"Yes, the company formed a new project team on short notice, and both Gianna and I are part of it."

Hearing his excuse, I found it absurd.

Which legitimate company's new project team would have just the two of them working so late?

I gently pushed him away and stepped back: "If you’re happy, that’s what matters. I’m a bit tired, so I’m going to bed."

Indeed, after a full day working on the bid, I was exhausted and had no energy left for a confrontation.

My cold demeanor seemed to displease Jason.

"I’ve already said it’s just a professional relationship. Why do you always distrust me so much?"

"Can’t you, as a modern woman, be more understanding of my career?"

In the past, he always used this blend of persuasion and pressure to get me to accept his behavior. This time was no different.

But now, I had no hope left for this relationship or this marriage.

I sneered: "Jason, Is this some kind of game to you? You’re constantly glued to another woman and expect me to understand? Do you think I’m one of those docile female employees at your company?"

"Don’t be so self-righteous. Would I be fired if I refused to work late with the boss?"

I stared directly into Jason's eyes:

"Or are you saying that Ms. Kirk is coercing you? Fine, I’ll call the authorities and report this right now."

Jason was stunned.

Then, he, red-faced with anger, said, "I warn you, Amber, don’t push your luck! I’ve been more than patient with you—don’t keep testing my limits!"

Oh, limits? How conveniently flexible they are.

Ignoring his fury, I said calmly, "I need to prepare for the project bid tomorrow, so I need to rest. Do as you please."

With that, I walked into the study and gently closed the door.

Sitting at the computer, I began revising the bid proposal, trying hard not to think about the crumbling state of my marriage.