Hailey Tang couldn't fathom why Ethan Yu was so enraged. His sudden outburst seemed irrational, bordering on madness. Yet, the knowledge that the divorce papers were ready brought a sense of relief to her heart.
After their terse exchange, Ethan retreated to his study, leaving Hailey to her thoughts in the bedroom. Mrs. Zhang was busy packing their luggage for the upcoming trip.
"Mrs. Zhang, let me handle my own packing," Hailey offered, stepping forward.
"No need, Miss Hailey," Mrs. Zhang replied with a warm smile, gently nudging her away. "You should focus on packing for Mr. Yu."
Hailey chuckled, "Why would I pack for him? It's better if you do it."
Mrs. Zhang gave her a knowing look, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Miss Hailey, can't you see? Mr. Yu is starting to care for you. It's time you reciprocate."
Hailey's eyes widened in surprise. "He cares for me?"
"Absolutely. It's evident in his actions. The doctor suggested you get out more, and Mr. Yu immediately decided to take you to New York. He never included you in his business trips before. This time, he's making an exception—for you."
Hailey laughed, dismissing the idea. "He's taking me for other reasons."
Mrs. Zhang shook her head, unwavering in her belief. "It's clear as day. He wants you to relax and unwind. While you're in New York, make sure he shows you around."
Hailey sighed, choosing not to argue further. "Alright, but I'm still packing my own things."
Mrs. Zhang stood firm. "No, you focus on Mr. Yu's luggage."
"I won't pack for him," Hailey declared, heading towards the bathroom. "I'll just take a shower."
Mrs. Zhang watched her go, a mysterious smile playing on her lips.
Hailey indulged in a long soak in the bathtub, letting the warm water ease her tensions. After about an hour, she emerged from the bathroom, only to find Ethan reclining against the headboard, a book in hand.
Her gaze inadvertently landed on his partially unbuttoned shirt, revealing his chiseled chest and abs, glistening under the soft, golden light. The sight was undeniably alluring, exuding a raw masculinity that was hard to ignore.
In the past, Hailey would have been drawn to him, unable to resist the magnetic pull. But now, she merely glanced at him before turning away, settling on the sofa with an eye mask and blanket.
Ethan's eyes shifted from his book to her, noting her indifferent demeanor.
"Hailey," he began, "have you finished packing?"
"I'm not your maid. How would I know?" she replied coolly.
"But you're my wife, aren't you?"
Hailey scoffed, "Not for long."
"But for now, you still are."
"I'd rather not acknowledge that."
"Hailey…"
"Don't disturb my rest. If you're so concerned about the packing, check it yourself," she snapped, turning her back to him.
Ethan's jaw tightened, his eyes narrowing. "Fine."
He rose from the bed, his movements deliberate. Hailey could feel his presence looming over her, but she refused to engage.
"You know," he said, his voice low, "it's not just about the trip. I wanted you to come because I thought it would be good for you."
Hailey remained silent.
"I've noticed the changes in you. You're distant, closed off. I thought a change of scenery might help."
She turned to face him, her eyes cold. "Don't pretend to care now. It's too late."
Ethan's expression hardened. "Maybe it is. But I'm trying."
Hailey stood up, facing him squarely. "Trying? You think a trip will fix everything? That suddenly, I'll forget all the times you ignored me, belittled me?"
"I never meant to hurt you."
"But you did. Repeatedly."
They stood in silence, the tension thick between them.
Ethan finally spoke, his voice barely above a whisper. "I'm sorry."
Hailey looked away, tears threatening to spill. "Sorry doesn't change the past."
"No, it doesn't. But maybe it can change the future."
She met his gaze, searching for sincerity. "Why now, Ethan? Why start caring now?"
"Because I realized what I stand to lose."
Hailey's heart ached, torn between hope and skepticism. "We'll see."
The next morning, the atmosphere was tense as they prepared for their flight. Ethan tried to engage Hailey in conversation, but she remained distant.
At the airport, as they waited to board, Ethan reached out, gently taking her hand. "Hailey, I know I've made mistakes. But I want to make things right."
She looked at him, her eyes filled with uncertainty. "Actions speak louder than words, Ethan."
He nodded, determination in his eyes. "Then let my actions prove it."
As they boarded the plane, Hailey couldn't help but wonder if this trip would mark a new beginning or the final chapter of their story.