Chapter 10 - THE COURTROOM WHERE DEREK LOST EVERYTHING
The legal proceedings began months later.
The investigation had expanded beyond the forged authorization.
Authorities examined financial records connected to the waterfront properties, the suspicious transactions, and the attempted intimidation of Ren.
Derek was called to testify.
He looked nothing like the confident groom Ren had once loved.
His suit was rumpled.
His eyes were tired.
Under questioning, he admitted that his father had told him about the trust.
He acknowledged submitting documents without Ren's informed consent.
He attempted to minimize his role.
But the evidence contradicted several of his claims.
Cassandra also provided testimony.
She admitted knowing Derek had concealed information from Ren.
Her statements helped establish the timeline of the scheme.
Ren sat beside Evelyn.
She felt no satisfaction watching people she once loved face consequences.
Only sadness.
During a recess, Derek approached her.
“Ren.”
She looked up.
He hesitated.
“I never meant for it to go this far.”
Ren studied him.
“You knew what you were doing.”
He looked down.
“I thought we'd both benefit.”
She shook her head.
“You thought you could decide what belonged to me.”
He swallowed.
“I'm sorry.”
Ren nodded.
“I hope you mean that.”
Then she stood.
“But I'm not coming back.”
The proceedings continued.
The challenged transfer was invalidated.
The trust's ownership was confirmed.
Separate investigations into the wider financial scheme remained ongoing.
Ren left the courthouse with her parents.
Matteo waited across the street.
He didn't approach until she smiled at him.
“It's over?” he asked.
Ren looked toward the courthouse.
“Part of it.”
He nodded.
She took a breath.
“But the part where I let Derek decide my future?”
May you like
She smiled.
“That's over.”
