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.

closed her eyes and took a deep

Stewart was absolutely shameless.

never faced a rival quite like Wentworth. After this case, all I can say

was so angry

hope. We lost this round, but we can appeal. The catch is we'll have to

her tone clipped. "Thank you for

I couldn't do

not your fault.

as she hung up, Briony pressed a

never expected this fight to be easy, but she also never

Ghana...

denying the breakdown of their marriage, playing the part of the

when

just to keep her trapped in this relationship, he had the gall to perform for the court, acting as if he loved

Why?

didn't love her-so why couldn't he just let

phone began to vibrate-Stewart was

name on the screen for

voice came through the line. Briony's lips curled into a bitter smile. "Did you enjoy your little performance?" There was a pause, as if he was

serious. "His father was a close friend of mine who died in the line of duty. Everything about him has to stay confidential. I can't say more. Knowing too much wouldn't

hear it. All

me next that nothing ever happened with

and Rosita," Stewart said, voice icy. "All those rumors online were staged for the Lockwoods' benefit. She's had a hard time with that family, and

finding it

cared," she said flatly.

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

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