Chapter 17 - The Final Decree
The final divorce hearing was a quiet, almost boring affair, lacking all the explosive drama Julian had promised.
He didn't even show up to the courthouse, having secured a public defender who looked entirely overwhelmed.
Victoria sat next to me, confidently flipping through the massive stack of legal documents sealing my victory.
The judge hit his gavel, granting the divorce on the grounds of extreme infidelity and financial abuse.
Because Julian had attempted to hide assets and committed fraud, the judge awarded me everything.
I kept the Manhattan penthouse, the Hamptons estate, and absolute control over Vance Global Shipping.
Julian was left with nothing but his massive debts, a pending federal trial, and a ruined reputation.
As we walked down the marble steps of the courthouse, the crisp autumn air felt like breathing for the first time in years.
“You did it, Elena,” Victoria smiled, squeezing my shoulder warmly.
“You didn't just survive the shark tank; you became the apex predator.”
I thanked her, sliding a massive bonus check into her hand, knowing she had earned every single penny.
I got into my waiting car and told the driver to take me to the cemetery on the outskirts of the city.
I walked up to Eleanor’s grand marble mausoleum, carrying a massive bouquet of her favorite white lilies.
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“We won, Eleanor,” I whispered into the quiet wind, placing the flowers gently on the stone steps.
“Your legacy is safe with me, and I made sure he couldn't destroy anything else.”
