The courtroom smelled of polished wood and stale coffee. Every seat was occupied. Alexander Vale had made sure the hearing attracted attention. Reporters lined the back wall, former employees filled the benches, and his mother sat in the front row wearing pearls and a look of quiet satisfaction.
My attorney leaned toward me.
“Mara, you don’t have to listen to this.”
“I do,” I replied.
Across the room, Alexander adjusted his expensive watch and rose when the judge asked if both parties were ready.
“Very ready, Your Honor,” he said smoothly.
Then he turned toward the courtroom.
“My wife has no meaningful claim to Vale Meridian Holdings,” he announced. “For years she depended on me. The company, the properties, and every success we achieved survived because of my leadership.”
A few people murmured.
His mother dabbed at her eyes.
