Her voice stayed measured and quiet, filling the still air of the room without rising.

“The legal standing is clear, Mrs.

Holloway,” the attorney replied, tilting his spectacles down his nose.

“The state courts classify structural design work done by an uncredentialed spouse as domestic support rather than equity investment.”

Grant adjusted his platinum wristwatch, the silver links catching the glare of the overhead fluorescent lights.

“We’re giving you a clean slate, Caroline,” Grant said, without looking up from his phone.

“Fourteen thousand dollars in cash covers your immediate living expenses while you move into an apartment of your own.”