Briony stepped out onto the balcony to take the call.

On the other end, her attorney let out a heavy sigh.

"Wentworth's lawyer has systematically dismantled all the evidence we had that proved his affair."

Briony's brow furrowed. "How did he manage that?"

"He produced a paternity test between himself and Irwin," the lawyer explained. "The results show there's no biological relation between them."

Briony was stunned. "No biological relation?"

"That's right. He also provided proof that Rosita and Garry are legally married- certificates, wedding video, the works-so our claim that he was having an affair with Rosita doesn't hold up either."

"And that's not all. Wentworth turned the tables on us."

"He presented a paternity report showing Little Nina is his biological daughter, and he painted the last four years of separation as one big misunderstanding. He claimed he was deceived by Professor and Mrs. Winslow, saying he had no idea you were still alive. In short, he argued he never abused his position or did anything to damage the marriage, and just on those two points, he's flipped the narrative about your relationship breaking down."

"What really blew me away," the lawyer continued, "was his final play. He produced medical records showing he was hospitalized with a serious illness four years ago, along with evidence that Professor Winslow held a funeral for you. He told the court he genuinely believed you were dead, and that these past four years of supposed separation were all part of someone else's scheme. He cast himself as the victim..."

"Then he pulled out family vacation photos and videos-the most recent from four years ago in Ghana, where the three of you were dressed in wedding attire for Irwin's photoshoot. I have to admit, even knowing the truth, I was nearly

convinced by his performance-let alone the judge."

Briony's frown deepened, her face growing paler by the second.

So this was the trap waiting for her in Ghana.

her eyes and took

Stewart was absolutely shameless.

sigh. "In all my years of practicing law, I've never faced a rival quite like Wentworth. After this case, all I can say is: the man is a

so angry she couldn't

don't lose hope. We lost this round, but we can appeal. The catch is we'll have

Briony pressed down her fury, her tone clipped. "Thank you for all your

I couldn't do

not your fault. Stewart is

Briony pressed a hand to her chest and sank to

be easy, but she also never imagined

Ghana... What

Stewart denying the breakdown of their marriage, playing the part

of a hidden marriage, and when had

in this relationship, he had the gall to perform for the court, acting

Why?

why couldn't he just let her

began to vibrate-Stewart

on the screen for a long

curled into a bitter smile. "Did you enjoy your little performance?" There was a pause, as if he was confused. "Didn't your lawyer mention Irwin?"

is complicated," Stewart replied, his tone turning serious. "His father was a close friend of mine who died in the line of duty. Everything about him has to

All she wanted was a divorce-now, as soon

to tell me next that nothing ever happened with Rosita? That it was all

staged for the Lockwoods' benefit. She's had a hard time with that family, and she went through hell having Irwin.

finding it all

years ago I would have cared," she said flatly. "But now, all I want

any of it is a good reason for us to get divorced. Beyond these issues, I can't see why

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