Chapter Three: Confession Does Not Mean Lightness

Gray-uniformed workers waited behind Zhao. “Speak the authorization phrase,” Zhao told Su, “and everyone leaves.” “Admit the video is false.” “Certainly.” Facing Xu’s phone, he calmly admitted the edits, the surveillance, and the marriage-for-shares scheme. With each statement, his phone and shoes became lighter. Xu frowned. “Why is it working?” Lin looked at Su. She now had the truth and could dissolve the marriage, reject the transfer, and sue. Zhao’s confession was remorseless, but it returned her choices. “The rule doesn’t judge morality,” Lin said. “Only choices,” Zhao replied. “Cleaner than law.” Su’s dress grew light, but Zhou’s case continued sinking. Another secret remained. Lin lunged and pressed his hand to the case.