But one thing still puzzled him—something Nan Song hadn't explained:
*Why did she marry him in the first place?*
Not that Yu Jinwen's testimony was needed. The entire Yu family had witnessed Nan Song's devotion over the years—tending to her husband, caring for her mother-in-law, honoring the elders. A model wife in every sense.
Old Master and Madam Yu held no grudge against her for being a Nan.
"Xiao Song," the old master said gently, "don't mind your uncle. He's still sore from losing to your father—it's not about you. The past is past. Business is business, hm?"
Madam Yu patted her hand. "We know *exactly* who you are. These years with you have been a joy. Now that you're back, stay. Let's be a family again." She glanced at Yu Jinwen. "*Right*, A'Jin?"
The elders' plea was unmistakable: *Reconcile.* Yu Fanyin and Yu Zeyu chimed in, nudging Yu Jinwen with pointed looks.
Yu Fengjiao went further—she *shoved* her son toward Nan Song.
Yu Jinwen stumbled forward, barely catching himself before colliding with her.
Nan Song watched, amused, making no move to steady him.
Amid the clamor, Yu Jinwen's ears burned. He wanted to snap—but under Nan Song's teasing gaze, his anger fizzled out.
Why did she look at him like he was some… *pet*?
This scene wasn't new. For three years, the family had pushed them together. But love couldn't be forced.
She'd had her fill of bitter fruit.
"Grandfather, Grandmother, Mom… A'Jin and I are *divorced*," Nan Song said softly. "The paperwork finalizes today. It's time we moved on."
She smiled. "I came back to say goodbye—and thank you. If you miss me, visit Nan City. The roses are in bloom."
Yu Jinwen stood in the rain as she bid farewell.
"I'll walk her out."
He opened an umbrella, falling into step beside her. Silence stretched between them.
The scent of roses—her signature fragrance—seemed sharper in the damp air. It reminded him of the rose seal she'd gifted him… and the dormant roses at Yu Manor.
Three sleek cars idled at the gate.
Gu Heng, her chief assistant, waited with four others under black umbrellas. The moment Nan Song appeared, he stepped forward, while another aide opened the car door.
"Thank you. Goodbye." Nan Song nodded, turning to leave.
As she moved to enter the car, Yu Jinwen suddenly called out, "Can I ask you something?"
She paused, glancing back.
His throat tightened. "*Why* did you marry me?"
Nan Song's gaze was serene. "*You* chose *me*, didn't you?"
The memory struck him like lightning—
Him, pointing at her among a group of medical staff: "Her."
He had picked her.
And *he* had let her go.