Chapter 7 Capacity of the Heart

In Yvonne’s heart, she could never see Benson as just a brother. Deep down, she still loved this man, even though he was cold to her and didn’t appreciate her efforts. As long as she could be in the same room with him, her world was filled with light. However, Benson already had someone else in his heart. His heart was too small to hold more than one person, and that person was not Yvonne. Yvonne admired Benson’s devotion. In this fast-paced and ever-changing world, it was rare to be so dedicated to one person for so many years. She knew she had made the right choice; Benson was indeed a respectable man. Therefore, she was willing to let him be happy, even if it meant giving up her own love. Benson’s words gave Yvonne a sense of relief. He told her she could get the brooch from him anytime, or he could bring it to her. This made Yvonne feel a weight lifted off her shoulders. At least, materially, she could maintain a connection with Benson, even if it was insignificant. Benson’s mother couldn’t understand or accept her son’s choice. She couldn’t fathom why Benson would give up such a good woman like Yvonne to pursue another. She even suspected that Benson might have been bewitched. She was determined to find a way for Benson and Yvonne to reconnect, believing it would be a great loss to miss out on Yvonne. However, Benson didn’t appreciate her efforts. He slumped on the sofa with Thomas, wearily responding to his mother’s concerns, “Mom, stop worrying. Yvonne and I have agreed. We’ll finalize the divorce in a few days. We’re officially siblings now. Are you satisfied?” Seeing that her son wouldn’t listen, Benson’s mother sighed helplessly and went upstairs. Yvonne woke up in the afternoon. The aroma of delicious food wafted into her room. Opening the door, she saw Bella standing outside, her face lighting up with a delighted smile. She hurriedly let Bella in, concernedly asking, “Bella, what brings you here? I’m so happy to see you!” Bella smiled as she entered, her eyes filled with care, “Yvonne, Victoria called me. She said you didn’t sleep last night and was very worried about you, so she asked me to come and check on you, take care of you.” Warmth surged through Yvonne’s heart. She knew that despite Victoria’s strict demeanor, she genuinely cared for her. Gratefully, she looked at Bella, “Thank you so much, Bella. And thank you to Victoria for her concern. I didn’t sleep well last night; I was busy with many things.” Bella gently patted Yvonne’s hand, comforting her, “Yvonne, I know your feelings are complicated right now. Divorce is a big deal, and it takes time to adjust and accept. But I want you to know, no matter what happens, you are not alone. Victoria and I, and others who care about you, will always support and be there for you.” Yvonne’s eyes glistened with tears as she nodded, “I know, Bella. Having you all makes me feel very lucky. It’s just… sometimes I feel so lost, not knowing what the future holds.” Knowing Yvonne had been feeling down lately, Bella brought her favorite food, hoping to comfort her. Yvonne gratefully looked at Bella, feeling warmth in her heart. At this moment, having such a friend by her side was a great comfort. Bella sat across from Yvonne, holding a piece of delicate cake, a hint of worry in her eyes. She sighed softly and said, “Yvonne, I really think it’s a shame for you and Benson to get divorced. You were such a perfect couple. I remember when you got married, everyone said you were made for each other.” Yvonne smiled slightly, her smile tinged with bitterness, “Bella, I know you’re looking out for me. But some things are beyond our control. Benson already has someone else in his heart. I can’t force him to love me.” Bella put down the cake, looking seriously at Yvonne, “I understand, but if it weren’t for you, would Benson be alive today to love someone else?” Yvonne’s voice was gentle, “I understand what you mean, Bella. But in this relationship, I’m tired. Honestly, seeing Benson stick to his choice of Mary, I was a bit touched.” Just as Yvonne and Bella finished their conversation, the phone rang urgently. Yvonne picked up the phone and saw it was Benson’s mother calling. She took a deep breath and answered. “Hello, dear Yvonne, how are you?” Victoria’s gentle voice came from the other end. “I’m fine, thank you for your concern,” Yvonne replied politely. “That’s good. Benson’s father and I would like to invite you to the manor for dinner, to discuss the property division. We’ve hired a lawyer to help clarify some details,” Victoria’s voice carried a hint of seriousness. Yvonne’s heart tightened. She knew this day would come but didn’t expect it so soon. She looked at Bella, who encouraged her with a nod. “Okay, Mom, I’ll be there on time. Thank you for the invitation,” Yvonne tried to keep her voice calm. After hanging up, Yvonne turned to Bella, “Bella, I have to go to the manor. Benson’s mother wants to discuss the property division.” Bella held Yvonne’s hand, giving her strength, “Yvonne, you’re doing great. Remember, no matter what happens, you have the right to fight for the best outcome for yourself.” Yvonne nodded, composed herself, and prepared to go to the manor. She decided to bring a small gift to show respect to Benson’s parents. With the carefully chosen gift, Yvonne drove to the manor. The manor was as beautiful and tranquil as ever, but Yvonne’s mood was complex and difficult to describe. When Yvonne arrived with the gift, a few people had already gathered in the manor. Besides Benson’s parents, the lawyer sat in the living room. His demeanor was calm and professional. He wore a well-tailored dark suit, with a perfectly knotted tie, exuding an air of meticulousness and grace. His hair was neatly combed, and the eyes behind his glasses were sharp and focused, seemingly capable of discerning every legal detail. A laptop and several documents lay on the table in front of him, filled with dense legal texts and case notes. Seeing Yvonne arrive, Benson’s mother asked her to go upstairs to call Benson down. Yvonne nodded and walked up the stairs. Gently pushing open the bedroom door, she found it empty. Puzzled, she wondered where he could be if not in the bedroom. The study might be a possibility. She was about to turn and search when she heard the bathroom door open gently. Benson emerged from the bathroom, freshly showered, exuding a refreshing scent. Droplets of water fell from his meticulously groomed hair, now tousled over his forehead, adding a hint of rugged charm. The water droplets traced the defined contours of his face, gliding past his high nose bridge, and landing on his slightly parted lips, inviting thoughts of their cool touch. His upper body was bare, his skin smooth and glistening from the shower, muscles clearly defined, each one like a meticulously crafted work of art, full of strength and beauty. The water droplets slowly traveled down his chest, past his solid abs, and finally disappeared into the loosely tied towel around his waist, which seemed ready to fall at any moment, making Yvonne unconsciously hold her breath.