Chapter 9 - The Final Hearing
The divorce was finalized seven months after the hospital confrontation.
Gavin arrived at court wearing a new suit and an old expression of confidence.
He had spent months arguing that Audrey’s wealth entitled him to a generous settlement. He demanded temporary support, a percentage of the mansion, and compensation for the career he claimed to have sacrificed.
Audrey’s legal team presented employment records showing that Gavin had been paid a six-figure salary for a position he rarely performed.
They presented the secret transfers to Brooke.
They presented the apartment rented for Natalie.
They presented messages in which Gavin planned to use Audrey’s fear of public embarrassment against her.
The judge ruled that the mansion remained protected trust property.
Gavin received no share.
The court also ordered him to repay part of the marital funds he had diverted.
After the hearing, he followed Audrey into the courthouse corridor.
“You ruined my life,” he said.
Audrey stopped.
“No. I stopped you from using mine.”
“You think you’re untouchable because you have money.”
“This was never about money.”
“It was always about money to your family.”
“That’s why they lost access to it.”
Gavin lowered his voice.
“Brooke left me.”
Audrey already knew.
Brooke had discovered more messages, sold the vehicle purchased with stolen funds, and moved with the baby to another city. She had begun working for a small interior design firm.
She and Audrey communicated only through occasional letters.
Brooke did not ask for money.
It was the first sign that she might truly be changing.
Gavin continued.
“My son is growing up without me.”
“That is between you and Brooke. Be the kind of father who deserves to know him.”
“You don’t care what happens to me?”
Audrey considered the question.
Once, she had cared so much that she ignored every warning. She mistook loyalty for love and sacrifice for partnership.
Now she felt no hatred.
Hatred would have required him to remain important.
“I hope you become honest,” she said. “But I won’t be there to reward you if you do.”
She walked away.
Outside the courthouse, Samuel waited beside a car.
“How does freedom feel?” he asked.
Audrey looked up at the clear morning sky.
“Quieter than I expected.”
“Is that bad?”
“No.”
May you like
She smiled.
“It’s peaceful.”
