Grace’s voice remained calm.
“Legally, Mrs. Hale has been the majority owner of Hale Restaurant Group since 2005.”
“No.”
Victor turned to Gerald.
“Tell them.”
Gerald was reading.
His lips moved silently.
“Gerald.”
Nothing.
“Tell them!”
Gerald looked up.
And in his face, Victor found the answer.
For thirteen years, Victor had operated the company as though it belonged entirely to him.
He had sold equity.
Borrowed money.
Purchased properties.
Opened new restaurants.
Transferred assets.
Signed investor agreements.
All while the person who legally controlled fifty-two percent of the underlying company had been deliberately excluded.
Me.
Grace faced the judge.
“We are therefore seeking not merely equitable distribution of marital assets. We are requesting recognition of Mrs. Hale’s existing majority interest, an accounting of profits improperly withheld, rescission of unauthorized transactions where appropriate, surcharge for breaches of fiduciary duty, and sanctions for fraudulent concealment.”
Victor stared at me.
“You planned this.”
