“Both,” he said.

Evelyn closed her eyes. It was the first honest answer he had given her in years.

The judge ruled that afternoon. The settlement would stand. The paintings had been transferred to Evelyn by mutual agreement before any auction negotiations began; Daniel had requested the transfer, assigned the valuation, declined professional review, and signed the documents voluntarily.

The $48 million proceeds belonged solely to Evelyn. So did every remaining painting.

Judge Brooks ended with a statement directed at Daniel. “The law protects individuals from fraud, coercion, and concealment. It does not protect them from the consequences of contempt.”

The divorce was finalized at 4:26 p.m. Outside, reporters shouted Evelyn’s name. How did it feel to win? Was the painting about Daniel? Would she sell the rest?