Chapter 6 - Anthony’s Public Performance
Anthony moved into Eleanor’s rented apartment, but he refused to accept that the marriage was truly over.
He told relatives that Marissa had become cold, unstable and obsessed with controlling money. He claimed she had thrown him out after one innocent business dinner.
Eleanor repeated the story to anyone willing to listen.
According to her, Marissa was a spoiled heiress who used financial power to punish a loving husband and his devoted mother.
Several relatives believed them.
Anthony understood public sympathy. He posted carefully selected photographs of himself with Noah, always accompanied by captions about fatherhood, sacrifice and resilience.
Marissa refused to respond online.
She followed the parenting schedule and ensured Noah never heard an unkind word about his father.
Privately, Anthony became aggressive.
He demanded half the penthouse.
He demanded ownership in Bennett Urban Holdings.
He demanded permanent support for Eleanor, arguing that she had become dependent on the lifestyle Marissa provided.
Rachel nearly laughed when she read the request.
“Your former mother-in-law wants support from you?”
“Apparently.”
“She has no legal right to it.”
“I know. But Anthony is not expecting to win everything. He is asking for too much so I will surrender something important.”
Anthony’s real target soon became clear.
He wanted a large settlement and a continuing role in the consulting company Marissa had funded.
He believed the company was worth millions.
What he did not know was that Marissa’s financing agreement included a misconduct clause. If company money was misused or records were falsified, her investment entity could demand repayment and take control of the remaining assets.
Anthony had falsified expenses.
He had transferred funds to Eleanor.
He had also billed Bennett Urban Holdings for consulting work his team never completed.
Marissa could remove him from the company he believed would secure his future.
Rachel placed the documents on the table.
“We can use this now.”
Marissa shook her head.
“Not yet.”
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“Why wait?”
“Because Anthony still believes he can frighten me into settling privately. I want the divorce finalized first. Then I want him to see exactly what his choices cost.”
