Chapter 4: The Woman He Tried to Destroy
Morning sunlight spilled through the shattered silence of Blackthorn Manor.
News helicopters circled overhead.
Every major network was broadcasting live.
Nathan Ashford—the self-made billionaire admired by the business world—was being led out of his own mansion in handcuffs.
Reporters shouted questions.
"CFOs are resigning!"
"Federal prosecutors have confirmed multiple indictments!"
"Did you assault your wife?"
He lowered his head.
For the first time in years...
No one listened when he tried to speak.
Inside the mansion, Celeste packed designer handbags into expensive suitcases.
She never made it to the front door.
An attorney handed her another document.
"Asset seizure."
She laughed nervously.
"You can't take my jewelry."
The attorney smiled politely.
"It was purchased using stolen corporate funds."
She opened another suitcase.
Empty.
Another.
Empty.
Every luxury watch.
Every diamond.
Every painting.
Already cataloged.
Already confiscated.
She looked at me desperately.
"Evelyn..."
"I never wanted this."
I met her eyes.
"You enjoyed every second."
Security escorted her away.
Not with violence.
Not with humiliation.
Simply with indifference.
The punishment she feared most.
Being forgotten.
That afternoon, I signed only one document.
Divorce.
No anger.
No tears.
Just one signature ending four years of illusion.
Dad placed a hand on my shoulder.
"Come home."
May you like
This time...
I did.
