Chapter 13 - The Morning of the Hearing
Joyce arrived before eight in the black sedan.
Alice stepped outside wearing an ivory maternity dress and a long cream coat.
Her wedding ring remained on her finger.
Joyce noticed it.
“Why are you still wearing that?”
“Because I want to give it back when he understands what he traded it for.”
During the drive to Crestview County Courthouse, Alice kept one hand on the sealed envelope.
Daniel had instructed her not to open it.
The package contained certified copies, the emergency filing, and the request for a forensic preservation order.
Once accepted by the clerk, Aiden could no longer legally move or destroy the disputed assets without risking severe consequences.
Joyce looked at her daughter.
“You don’t have to be brave every second.”
“I know.”
“You can be scared.”
“I am.”
Alice’s voice cracked.
Then the baby kicked beneath her ribs.
Joyce placed a hand beside Alice’s.
“He’s reminding you that you’re not walking in alone.”
At the courthouse, Aiden waited on the steps with Madeline attached to his arm.
Madeline wore pale cream.
Almost bridal.
The choice was deliberate.
She wanted Alice to imagine herself already replaced.
When Alice stepped from the sedan, Madeline smiled.
Aiden checked his watch.
May you like
Neither noticed Daniel near the entrance until Alice turned toward him.
👉 The moment Aiden recognized the attorney holding the black folder, he realized Alice had never planned to surrender quietly.
