“You knew the house was worth more than a million.”

“I knew the property was worth what a buyer would pay,” I said.

“I also knew what you had borrowed against it.”

“Why didn’t you warn me?”

“I sent you copies of the statements.

Sarah sent them.

Your attorney requested them.

You said spreadsheets bored you.”

Judge Bellamy held up a hand before Mark could shout again.

He explained that a settlement was not a magic trick and that he would not enter an agreement unless both parties understood its obligations.

He recessed the hearing and allowed Mark time to speak privately with his lawyer.

In the hallway, Sarah exhaled.

“He can still ask to reconsider.

I need you to understand that.”