For the first time since the kitchen, I smiled. “Save it,” I said. “You’re going to need some.”

Part 3 — The Documented Man

The courtroom was full when Julian asked the judge to give him control of my trust. He walked in with Eleanor behind him, glanced at the scar above my collar, and smirked.

His attorney began gently. “My client cared for his wife through a tragic accident. She repaid him by inventing abuse and concealing marital assets.”

Judge Margaret Ross turned to me. “Mrs. Mercer?”

I stood slowly. My scar tightened, but my voice did not. “My husband is right about one thing,” I said. “I concealed something.”

Julian’s smile widened.