His lawyer then challenged me to prove my personal investments, apparently certain they were fabricated.
“File the certified ownership records,” I told Mara.
She watched me. “That will put Alder Point in open court.”
“I know.”
Two days later, auditors discovered a seven-figure wire approved using Grant’s executive credentials.
Its recipient listed Vanessa’s brother as director.
One message from Vanessa said, “Move it before the investors notice.”
Mara looked afraid for the first time.
“Claire, this
isn’t just a divorce.”
“No,” I said, studying the authorization signature. “It never was.”
On hearing day, I wore Mother’s simple navy jacket. Grant laughed when he spotted it.
“Still dressing for job interviews?”
I passed without replying.
PART 3 — THE DAY THE COURTROOM WENT SILENT
The courtroom was smaller than Grant anticipated.
He appeared in a tailored suit beside Vanessa, ready to enjoy my defeat. Sloane brought a leather briefcase and an assured smile.
“Your Honor,” he began, “my client supported an unemployed spouse who now seeks access to assets she did nothing to create.”
