Vincent never rushed her. He sat at the head of the table with calm patience, translating legal complexity into human consequences.
“The divorce petition has been filed,” he told her during one meeting three days after the gala. “Given the police report, witness statements, footage, and documented financial manipulation, your position is strong.”
Lenora sat with her hands folded around a paper cup of tea. She still chose paper cups over porcelain because porcelain felt too easy to break.
“What does strong mean?”
“It means Mr. Washington is unlikely to receive financial benefit from the marriage.”
“Even after five years?”
“Especially after five years of documented abuse and fraudulent intent.”
She nodded slowly.
“Will he go to jail?”
Vincent paused. “Possibly. But likely not for long, if at all, depending on charges and plea decisions. The legal system is not always emotionally satisfying.”
“I don’t need satisfying,” Lenora said. “I need safe.”
