"Sure. I left you, and our living conditions took a dive, but don't worry your pretty little head. My daughter and I won't starve. What are you doing here? Spit it out or skedaddle; don't you dare interrupt our supper!"
Thaddeus felt a pain in his chest after hearing his usually gentle wife snap at him like this. He sighed, took a seat, and softened his tone a bit. "Alright, have you finished your tantrum yet? We're not spring chickens anymore, so why are you acting so damn stubborn? Finish up this junk food and come home with me."
Bertha held a half-eaten pizza in her hand.
Then she had to put it down to fire back at him. "Thaddeus, did you not hear what I said the other day, or did you simply choose to ignore it?!"
Thaddeus looked innocent. "When have I ever ignored what you said? Bertha, can't we just stop this nonsense?"
Bertha took a sip from her daughter's soda. "I told you that I want a divorce. Have you forgotten? If we're getting a divorce, we obviously need to start by living separately. Why should I go back with you?"
Thaddeus frowned. "Divorce? Bertha, we don't have any marital problems. Why on earth would we get a divorce? I admit I was in a bad mood that day and didn't speak kindly to you and Lea, but surely that's not a reason to actually divorce me."
Bertha laughed sarcastically. "A minor issue? You still think the reason I'm upset is some minor inconvenience to you. Thaddeus, what have I gained from being with you all these years? Everyone thinks I'm living a life of luxury because I'm with you, but what luxury have I enjoyed? Can you tell me?"
Thaddeus opened his mouth, but no words came out.
However, Bertha cut him off. "I'm sure you think I'm hypocritical now. I said I didn't want anything, and now I'm angry because you're not giving me anything, right?
Well, think whatever you like! I'm determined to divorce you and fight for everything that should belong to Lea! Then I'll respect her wishes, donate it to those in need, and let her accumulate good karma! I can bear the burden, but my daughter can't!"
Thaddeus' face showed a range of mixed emotions. He pulled out a cigar case from his pocket, took out a cigar, and was about to light it.
Suddenly, Bertha snatched the cigar from his mouth and tossed it into the trash. "If you want to smoke, go outside! This pigeon coop may not be to your liking, but it's my friend's beloved home! Don't stink up my friend's furniture! I don’t want my daughter to be harmed by your second-hand smoke!"
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