Capítulo 15: Chapter 15
The two leaders exchanged a glance, realizing they had a tough case on their hands. There's a rather unflattering Chinese term, "tough meat" - no matter how you chop, slice, or hack, it's not easily dealt with, and you might even hurt yourself in the process. It's used to describe someone who is stubborn and unyielding, who doesn't listen to reason.
While the term doesn't quite fit Brian, it's clear he's not one to back down easily.
So, who would come out on top in a face-off between a seasoned politician and a successful businessman?
The showdown began.
"Being married to a soldier is no walk in the park. You have to endure the pain of separation, the loneliness of long absences. We understand your struggles. The day after your wedding, he was sent on a mission and disappeared for over three years. You've had a tough time, and we've heard about your ordeal. We sympathize with you. It's our fault for not arranging things better, causing you two to live apart for so long,"
"William is an exceptional soldier, and there are some aspects of his work he can't discuss with you. But let's talk about what we can. Once, during a mission, he rescued hostages amidst a hail of bullets, getting shot twice in the process. He's been instrumental in combating arms smuggling and drug trafficking. He single-handedly ventured into deep forests to capture drug dealers. He's been shot at, hit by bullets, and has had several brushes with death. He's sacrificed a lot for his work. Naturally, he's also had to give up a lot, and you were the first thing he had to leave behind. As a soldier, he had no choice. His family needs to understand and support him."
"You say there's no love left, but love isn't just about romance, it's also about kinship. Once you're married, you become family, even without blood ties. And family doesn't just separate, does it? As family, you need to empathize with him."
"William doesn't want a divorce either. Yesterday, he came to the military base looking for me, crying, demanding to be discharged. He said he's let you down, that you've suffered too much because of him, and he wants to make it up to you. Give him a chance, Brian. You've been married for so long, and you grew up together. You know what kind of person he is. He's been held back by his work, not because he doesn't love you. Give him a chance. Even if there's no love left, you can start over."
"General Liu and I understand his hardships, and we also understand that the main issue in your marriage is time. His many missions have exhausted your love. We've discussed this, and we won't assign him any tasks for the next six months. He just needs to return to the base for regular training. He can use this time to be with you. Give him a chance. Marriage isn't easy, don't throw yours away lightly."
General Liu and Director Gu took turns speaking, one following the other. They began with emotional appeals, then moved on to logical arguments, their words sincere and heartfelt.
After the first round of persuasion, they looked at Brian.
Brian lit a cigarette, listening quietly, his gaze seemingly focused on the steam rising from his tea, not making a sound.
William reached out to touch Brian's sleeve.
"Brian..."
Brian shot him a glare.
William didn't dare to speak again. That icy gaze was enough to make anyone shiver.
General Liu and Director Gu exchanged a glance and continued.
"Even a murderer gets a chance to reform in prison, Brian. Don't judge someone by their past. If he's willing to change, give him a chance to try."
"If there really is a problem, we can't stop you from divorcing. But now that we've identified the issue, it's something that can be corrected and repaired. Why not try to start over?"
"He's remorseful, and you should be forgiving."
"Mutual understanding and support, that's the true essence of a married life."
After the second round of persuasion, they looked at Brian again.
Brian refilled their tea.
"You've been talking for a while, have some tea to soothe your throats."
What Brian meant was, there's plenty of water, I'll even provide meals, so go ahead and continue.
Status de energia semanal
-- Ranking de
Poder 
-- Pedra de
Poder