Chapter 13 - THE DIVORCE THAT ENDED A DECADE
The divorce was finalized in autumn.
The settlement recognized Eleanor's marital and corporate interests.
She received an equitable share of the assets.
And the disputed business transactions continued through separate legal proceedings.
Graham did not contest her right to leave.
He had stopped trying to persuade her months earlier.
Outside the courthouse, they stood beneath a pale sky.
Graham looked at her.
"Ten years."
Eleanor nodded.
"Ten years."
He smiled sadly.
"We built something extraordinary."
She looked toward the harbor.
"We did."
Then she turned.
"But we forgot to protect the part that mattered most."
Graham lowered his eyes.
"I did."
For a moment, neither spoke.
Then he removed his wedding ring.
He held it in his palm.
"I wore this because I thought it made people trust me."
Eleanor watched.
He continued.
"I should have worn it because I wanted to be worthy of your trust."
She felt tears rise.
Graham closed his hand around the ring.
"I'm sorry."
Eleanor nodded.
"I know."
He looked at her.
"Do you think you could ever forgive me?"
She considered.
Then answered honestly.
"Maybe."
His expression changed.
"But forgiveness doesn't mean coming back."
He nodded.
"I understand."
She smiled faintly.
"Goodbye, Graham."
"Goodbye, Eleanor."
May you like
She walked away.
This time, he didn't follow.
