Giving Up Research Rights Left Her Broke

On the day our company went public, my wife deliberately picked a fight. She accused me of dragging the company down and demanded that I hand over the R&D rights for our new product to her first love.

Instead of getting angry, I actually laughed. I even gave up my position and sincerely told her, R&D is exhausting. Why dont I just let him be the chief instead?

Everyone around us was stunned. They thought I had finally snapped from the stress.

However, no one knew the truth. The final material that made the product actually work was incredibly complex, and I was the only one who knew how to make it.

Without me, the product they had spent a whole year developing turned out to be nothing but trash. My wifes company would have to shoulder all the losses, along with a massive compensation payout on the way.

Chapter 1

Travis, you also deserve credit for the company going public today.

Come and stand next to me. Lets do this together.

Vanessa grinned as she waved Travis over. He hurried toward her.

The two of them held the pair of scissors together, cutting the ribbon side by side.

All the employees surrounded them, clapping and cheering.

This is such a good sign!

Look at Ms. Carline cutting the ribbon with Travis! It means theyre going to lead the company to even greater heights together!

Come on, lets head inside. The celebration cake is ready for you two!

My eyes burned when I watched that warm, joyful scene at the company entrance. I could not help but tighten my grip around the brooch in my hand.

Today was meant to be the day the company went public. I had been up early, preparing nonstop.

However, the moment we arrived at the entrance, my wife, Vanessa Carline, said she had left her brooch at home and asked me to drive back for it.

I cared about her and wanted her to look her best for the ceremony.

Therefore, I did not hesitate to turn the car around and rush home to find it.

However, everything became crystal clear when I saw Travis Skeldon standing in the spot that should have been mine.

The forgotten brooch was just an excuse. She wanted me out of the way so she could share this moment of glory with him.

They had even moved the ceremony up by half an hour.

Travis looked over and seemed to notice me. He pretended to be surprised and asked, Stephen, why did you only get here now? We couldnt find you anywhere, so we just went ahead. Sorry about that.

He spoke while pretending to be flustered. He set the scissors aside, but the smug look in his eyes did not fade one bit.

He had only been at the company for less than two months, but he acted like he owned the place just because he was Vanessas first love.

Knowing Vanessa would always have his back, he felt free to challenge me recklessly at every turn.

Vanessa glanced at me and scolded me without mercy, Stephen, how could you be late on such an important day? Did you expect everyone to just stand here and wait for you?

Youre always holding the company back. If you cant do anything right, just let Travis take over the new products R&D.

This project is a joint effort with domestic and international partners. We cant afford any screw-ups, especially from you.

It was summer, yet her words cut through me like ice, freezing my blood.

Back then, when she said she wanted to start a company, I gave up my flourishing career without a second thought.

I poured in all my savings and built everything with her from scratch.

She was incapable of running a company on her own, so I carried all the weight and took on every burden without complaint just to achieve what we had today.

Chapter 2

Travis had only attended a few meetings with Vanessa, and yet he effortlessly took credit for everything I had done.

Even the meetings he sat in were based entirely on my plans. All he did was read them out loud.

As I recalled this, I realized Vanessa was truly heartless.

With all that had happened, she had burned away the last trace of any marital bond between us.

I nodded numbly and said nonchalantly, Fine. Ill step aside.

A hint of triumph flashed across Travis eyes, but he protested, No, it shouldnt be this way. Im just a newcomer. Im hardly qualified to handle domestic and international product development.

I just heard that Stephen has been working on this product for almost a year, and it still isnt finalized. I just wanted to help out a bit.

Vanessa gently patted Travis shoulder. Travis, dont underestimate yourself. You studied at a top university, you were top of your class, and your major fits perfectly. No one else is as qualified as you!

I almost laughed out loud when I heard what she said.

I knew Travis had no real skills at all. His so-called education was merely a degree he bought with money.

Only Vanessa treated him like he was a treasure.

Once she had reassured him, she turned back to belittle me, Stephen, youve been working on this product for so long, and we still havent seen the results. Isnt that because you arent capable enough?

You cant do anything right. Ive been kind enough not to fire you! You should learn from Travis and stop causing me trouble.

I secretly let out a sigh.

Vanessa probably forgot that she relied on me for every single decision in the company back then. She depended on me for absolutely everything.

Now that the company was on track, she began to believe she could do everything herself and wanted to shove me aside.

She droned on, spittle flying as she went on a tirade.

I took a deep breath and walked straight toward Travis.

The employees around us kept glancing back and forth, wearing expressions of eager curiosity.

It was as though they were sure I would be throwing punches at Travis at the next second.

However, I stopped in front of him with a smile and pulled out my chief's badge from my bag.

I handed it to Travis and said earnestly, R&D is exhausting. Ill let you be the chief.

In an instant, the employees who had been waiting for drama looked shocked.

They thought I had finally lost it.

Everyone knew how much effort I had poured into this product, even how carefully I had trained the team.

Vanessas voice immediately turned colder as she stared at Travis holding the badge. Stephen, what exactly are you doing?

Strangely, I could hear a hint of displeasure in her tone.

I had just handed Travis a huge gift. She should be happy about it.

Letting Travis take all the credit and removing every barrier for himwas this not exactly what Vanessa wanted?

Travis gripped the badge tightly, like he was afraid I would take it back. He finally tore his greedy eyes away from it and gave me a troubled look and said, Stephen, are you mad? Is that why youre giving me the chief position?

Please dont misunderstand. Vanessa just wanted me to come over and help you out. Its for the good of the company.

Ive never thought of replacing you. I cant take this badge.

He reached out, trying to return the badge to me.

Yet he moved like a snail, clearly unwilling to let go of this windfall.

Chapter 3

I gave Travis a friendly smile and pushed his hand back.

How could I be mad? Im not upset at all. Youre a real talent. Of course, you deserve the best!

Vanessa shot me a suspicious glance, but when she saw no trace of displeasure on my face, she just pouted and added, Travis, just take it. Dont feel embarrassed. After all, hes doing it willingly. We didnt force him!

Travis thanked me repeatedly, pretending to be humble, but the smug look on his face gave him away.

I secretly let out a smirk. I had managed to finalize the material that would actually make the product work just a couple of days ago.

The formula was complicated, and no one else could replicate it.

Besides, Travis had no idea that being chief was not as easy as it looked. The chief was the core of the team and bore all the responsibility.

Without me, the product they had spent a year developing would be nothing more than a pile of junk. If Travis could not deliver, Vanessas company would be on the hook for all the losses and face a massive compensation bill.

Noticing my silence after handing over the chief position, Vanessa looked slightly uneasy. She cleared her throat and awkwardly said, Alright, Stephen, stop standing here. Its sweltering outside. Come on into the office and get ready to cut the celebration cake.

She tilted her chin like she was granting me some grand favor.

I almost laughed at the absurdity. I was deliberately left out of the ribbon-cutting, and they thought a stupid cake could make me feel better.

What a joke!

The thought of cutting the cake with Vanessa made me feel inexplicably sick.

I was about to speak when Travis suddenly piped up, Yeah, Stephen, you go ahead and get some cake first. A lot of confetti fell during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Ill stay behind and clean it up.

He theatrically grabbed a broom and dustpan, dabbing at the sweat on his forehead.

I nearly forgot that they were supposed to cut the cake together. Travis was clearly playing the victim, trying to see how much Vanessa cared about him.

Sure enough, she snatched the broom from him and said in a coquettish tone, Travis, your hands need to stay steady for delicate work. You shouldnt do jobs like this!

Then, she tossed the broom at my feet and said in disdain, Stephen, clean this up before going inside. Or dont even think about joining the lunch later.

I looked at the broom at my feet and could not help but let out a cold chuckle.

Vanessa had always done this. It was the carrot and the stick approach.

My schedule at work had always been packed full. I had never had a seat at the lunch table.

Now, she was granting me this privilege? It was absolutely disgusting!

Travis, who was holding the dustpan, deliberately tilted it toward me. A piece of tissue smeared with snot landed on my shoe.

He covered his mouth and said in a pretentious tone, Sorry, Stephen, I didnt hold it steady.

I said nothing and simply reached for the cleaning tools.

Travis smugness grew as his mouth twitched into a grin. He said in a falsely courteous tone, all while flaunting his pride, Stephen, sorry for the trouble. Ill leave it to you, then. Once Vanessa and I finish cutting the cake, youah!

Before he could finish speaking, Travis expression suddenly twisted, and he exclaimed in shock.

I dumped the trash from the dustpan over his head, curling my lips in a mocking grin.

Chapter 4

Garbage belongs with garbage. Thats the only way to stay clean!

Travis jumped in a panic. His tailored suit was now covered in dirt.

Vanessa was dumbfounded. She stared at me blankly for a moment before she finally reacted.

She began brushing the filth off Travis clothes while scolding me, Stephen, are you out of your mind? Youre just jealous that Travis is more capable than you, so youre deliberately targeting him!

I shrugged and let out a cold smirk, Quit with the self-delusions. Im not jealous of a loser. And stop bossing me around. Youre not even worthy of it!

Vanessas face flushed red with anger. She seemed ready to argue further, but I had already turned around and walked away casually.

I wandered along the path, trying to clear my mind. Before I knew it, I found myself in front of a small coffee shop.

I stared at the sign for a moment, then unconsciously went in and ordered a cup of coffee.

This was the place where Vanessa and I had first met.

Back in freshman year, a senior in our club was celebrating his birthday and invited the members for coffee.

I was from a rural background and my family was extremely poor. I was quiet, sensitive, and insecure. However, I did not want to kill the vibe, so I forced myself to go.

Everyone brought expensive gifts for the senior while I clutched my cloth bag tightly.

It contained a few jars of beef sauce my mother had made. Among all the fancy presents, my gift felt completely out of place.

I nervously took a sip of coffee and exclaimed, Why is it so bitter?

Instantly, laughter erupted around me. They mocked me for never having drunk coffee, calling me a country bumpkin.

Just as I felt utterly embarrassed, Vanessa stood up and added milk and sugar to my cup.

She even scolded those who were laughing at me, Whats the big deal? Some people just dont like black coffee. Its a matter of taste.

I realized she was speaking up for me, protecting my dignity.

When we left the coffee shop, she noticed the gift I had not given away and asked about it.

Embarrassed, I took out the jars of beef sauce. She did not mind at all. She even opened one and said it tasted great.

She explained the flavors of different types of coffee and asked if I liked the one I just drank.

Even with the milk and sugar, the coffee was still bitter, but inside, I felt warm.

I nodded and said it was good, not telling her the truth.

Later, I learned Vanessa was in the same major as me.

She came from the mountains and, through her hard work, got into this university. Perhaps because of our similar backgrounds, we developed a quiet bond and grew close.

Her confidence and composure drew me in like sunlight in the middle of a cold winter.

Over the days we spent together, I fell for her. I sank in deeper and deeper, unable to pull myself away.

I finally gathered the courage to confess during the university sports meet.

Yet, fate had other plans. Vanessa fainted on the track due to low blood sugar. I rushed her to the infirmary and handed her the candy I always carried. I then ran to the store to get her water.

By the time I returned, Travis had stolen the credit and even taken the opportunity to confess to her.

When I saw her face light up with happiness, I could only step back and support her as a friend.

Still, I never expected that Travis feelings for her were not genuine. It was not long before he broke up with her. He told her that his parents were abroad and that she was nothing more than a toy to him.

Chapter 5

He even said he looked down on someone like her because she came from a poor family.

After the breakup, Travis returned abroad, while Vanessa sank into a severe depression. A person who had once been so bright and lively started drifting through the days in a daze without ever smiling.

I was the one who had stayed by her side, helping her through treatment, keeping her company, and doing my best to make her laugh. Slowly, she began to get better.

Once we got together, she promised me that she would love only me in this lifetime.

The company I had worked hard to help her build also thrived. I thought we would walk hand in hand into the future, side by side.

However, Travis, who was unable to survive abroad after his parents company went bankrupt, suddenly showed up in front of Vanessa once more.

Once again, she panicked, and her gaze toward him was filled with sympathy and sorrow.

She even went so far as to let Travis parachute straight into our company, skipping interviews and skill assessments entirely, just to help him.

Even though Travis had hurt her so deeply before, Vanessa forgave him so easily.

The company had always been strict with new hires. That was her own rule. Yet she broke it again and again for Travis.

I let out a deep sigh at the thought of this.

Perhaps I should have realized long ago that Vanessa had never truly let go of Travis. There had never been enough space in her heart for me.

Since that was the case, I did not want her anymore.

Just as I was about to leave, I suddenly heard Vanessas voice.

Stephen, werent you just acting all tough? You even gave me an attitude. Why are you waiting here outside of the restaurant then?

I turned around and saw Vanessa and Travis behind me, followed by a group of employees.

I remembered that there really was a restaurant above this coffee shop.

What rotten luck, running into them wherever I turned.

Travis tugged on Vanessas sleeve and pretended to speak on my behalf. Vanessa, Stephen mustve realized his mistake and came here to apologize. Dont you usually have coffee before a meal? Look, the cup in Stephens hand is likely meant for you.

He stepped closer to me and added, Stephen, give Vanessa the coffee and join us for lunch.

I could see exactly what Travis was doing. He was showing off how well he knew Vanessa, and he was deliberately provoking me.

Honestly, it was boring.

Vanessa shot me a disdainful glance and urged, Since Travis is speaking up for you, what are you still standing out there for? Dont think just buying a cup of coffee will

She held out her hand, waiting for me to pass her the coffee.

I glanced at the trash can outside the shop and tossed the coffee straight in. I answered in an impatient tone, Dont be full of yourself. It wasnt for you. If you really want some, have Travis buy it for you.

Then, I hailed a cab and sped away. Behind me came Vanessas hysterical shouting.

When I got home, I had just plopped down on the couch when the door was kicked open.

Vanessa stormed in. Her eyes were red as though they were bleeding. She yelled, Stephen, were you out of your mind today? You went against me in everything and humiliated me in front of my staff!

Travis followed closely, trying to intervene, Stephen, it really was your fault today. Vanessa is a woman. She cares about her reputation. Are you upset because Vanessa and I are close? We really are just friends. I dont want to cause trouble between you and her. I should leave.

Chapter 6

Travis shuffled slowly toward the door, clearly reluctant to leave.

Vanessa grabbed his arm and said in a gentle voice, Travis, dont go. This has nothing to do with you.

Then, she turned around and lashed out at me, Stephen, youre being ridiculously petty! If you keep this up, then we should just get a divorce!

When I did not respond right away, Vanessa actually lifted her chin, thinking that I was going to back down again.

It was not the first time she had used divorce as a threat.

When did it start?

It was probably around six months ago when Travis came back.

Almost every major fight we had was because of him, and every time, Vanessa would threaten me with divorce.

Back then, I loved her like my life depended on it. The very mention of divorce used to feel like a looming disaster.

I was afraid she would really walk away, so I kept lowering myself, begging her to forgive me.

However, Vanessa really was a fool. Did she not understand that doing this would only push away the one person who loved her most?

It was just like what was happening at this moment. After being hounded by her again and again, the word no longer stirred anything in me.

If anything, it felt like finally setting down a burden I had been carrying for far too long.

Getting a divorce honestly sounded like the perfect way to free myself from her and finally start my own life.

The expression on my face must have looked bad, because Vanessa assumed her words had struck a nerve. She lifted her chin arrogantly and said, I dont really want to divorce you. As long as you apologize to Travis

I cut her off immediately, Stop. I agree to the divorce.

Vanessas eyes flew wide open. She parted her lips but was unable to force out a single word for what felt like ages.

Travis jumped in quickly, Even if shes throwing a tantrum, you cant joke about divorce!

Before he could finish, I threw a printed divorce agreement right at her face.

Im not joking. This is the divorce agreement. Sign it.

Only then did Vanessa realize I was serious. She clenched her teeth and pointed at me. Stephen, youve really got guts! Fine! Ill sign it. Whoever chickens out later will have to come back begging.

However, Travis snatched the papers away and said, Vanessa, calm down.

Then, he turned to look at me. Stephen, at least think about your future. If you divorce her now, what will you do?

I knew exactly what he was doing. He was trying to belittle me and make me believe everything I had was thanks to Vanessa.

That way, I would stay in the company and break my back working for them.

Vanessa smirked proudly. Stephen, dont flatter yourself. Fine, leave my company. Like anyone else would want someone who brings absolutely nothing to the table.

Even the project youre so proud of has been handed over to Travis.

Travis pretended to be modest. I can handle supervising a few people. Vanessa, you can just sit back and wait for the money to roll in.

While the two of them were basking in their little fantasy, Vanessas phone suddenly rang. She pulled it out, raising her brows at me.

Look at that, the team overseas is calling me. At this rate, I might even open a branch office soon!

She deliberately put the call on the speaker to show off.

A cold voice came through. Please come to our headquarters immediately. Theres a five-million-dollar compensation payment you need to wire to us. Dont waste our time.