Chapter 36
Chapter 36: Belinda arched an eyebrow. “Is something wrong?”’ When she assured Kristopher of her attendance at Anthony’s birthday party, she had already sorted everything out. Anthony, a man held in high esteem, would have his birthday attended by a crowd of friends and relatives from the Cox family. Her agenda was clear: to announce her divorce at this gathering, ensuring Kristopher would sign the divorce papers. Her days were numbered. She was determined not to prolong this affair any longer. Yet, she hesitated to spoil what could be Anthony’s last memorable birthday. To prevent any disruptions, she had discreetly mixed sleeping pills into his tea before the celebration began. Despite her careful planning, the birthday celebration was ultimately compromised. “Why even bother engaging with her?”’ Rosie scoffed, her voice dripping with disdain. “She’s got the divorce papers. Just sign them and let’s move on.”’ As Rosie voiced her impatience, Cathy was already perusing the divorce agreement. “I’ve looked over Belinda’s papers.”’ “And? You think something’s off?”’ Maggie questioned, massaging her sore cheek with frustration. Cathy shook her head, her voice steady. “There’s nothing underhanded here, but”¦”’ Her manicured finger hovered over a particular clause in the document. “Belinda is asking for custody of a ragdoll cat named Fluffy”¦”’ Her expression soured as she turned to Kristopher. “Is this the same Fluffy you mentioned to me earlier?”’ Stay connected at g’±¯lnÏν’¯ð’s”¤com Kristopher affirmed with a nod. “Yes, that’s the one.”’ Belinda’s eyebrow lifted in a mix of surprise and irritation. “I didn’t realize Mr. Cox had discussed my cat with Miss Miller.”’ Facing Cathy, she added coldly, “And what exactly is wrong with me wanting Fluffy?”’ Kristopher had gifted Belinda a cat named Fluffy on their first wedding anniversary. She was overjoyed, seeing it as a sign that Kristopher truly cared and their marriage was on the upswing. However, she eventually uncovered the unsettling truth. Fluffy was a cat that Maggie had bought on a whim during an overseas trip, paying a hefty sum. Maggie quickly lost interest in Fluffy and nearly abandoned him soon after. Throughout their three-year marriage, Belinda often found herself alone. On nights tormented by nightmares, it was Fluffy who comforted her, snuggling up beside her. In the impending divorce, she was willing to give up everything except Fluffy. Belinda was adamant that after she was gone, Madisyn would keep Fluffy. She had no faith in the Cox family to care for Fluffy properly. Maggie, recalling the past, claimed, “If I remember correctly, I spent a fortune on that cat. You’re divorcing my brother. Why should you keep something that’s technically mine?”’ Belinda met Maggie’s gaze with a cold expression. “Yours? Beyond buying her and bringing her back, what care have you ever provided? Your brother gave me your neglected cat, and I’ve nurtured him for over two years. Is it so wrong that I want to keep him?”’ She didn’t want Kristopher’s money, his car, or his house. She just wanted her Fluffy. Was this tiny favor too burdensome for the Cox family? “But that cat is mine,”’ Maggie retorted disdainfully. “Remove the clause about the cat from the divorce papers.”’ Her eyes narrowing, Maggie continued, “I don’t even like cats, but since I paid for this one, I’ll keep him. After the divorce, I’ll take him back to play with Bane.”’ Bane was Maggie’s menacing mastiff. Fluffy was no match for him. Belinda bit her lip to hold back her pain and met Maggie’s eyes with a defiant gaze. “I thought you’d be thrilled about me divorcing your brother. I’m surprised you’d want me around after that slap.”’ Maggie’s face contorted with fury. “Who said I want you around?”’ Belinda’s smirk widened. “You know I adore Fluffy, yet you”¦”’ “Refuse to let him go with me? Are you trying to use her to prevent the divorce?”’ Maggie’s expression grew even darker. She narrowed her eyes after a tense pause. “Fine, maybe you think you can use the cat to cling to the marriage. I wanted to use it to retaliate for the slap. But now, why should I?”’ She rose abruptly and advanced toward Belinda. “I’ll just strike back and have my brother throw you out!”’ “This woman has developed quite the temper. It won’t be easy to take her down!”’ Rosie rushed over to her side. “I’m with you!”’ Belinda stood firm, keeping an eye on the mother and daughter as they approached. She clenched her teeth, feeling her stomach twist as if gripped by unseen hands. She was barely able to stand, much less defend herself….