Chapter 317
Briony stepped out onto the balcony to take the call.
On the other end, her attorney let out a heavy sigh.
“Wentworth’s lawyer has systematically dismantled all the evidence we had that proved his affair.”
Briony’s brow furrowed. “How did he manage that?”
“He produced a paternity test between himself and Irwin,” the lawyer explained. “The results show there’s no biological relation between them.”
Briony was stunned. “No biological relation?”
“That’s right. He also provided proof that Rosita and Garry are legally married–certificates, wedding video, the works–so our claim that he was having an affair with Rosita doesn’t hold up either.”
“And that’s not all. Wentworth turned the tables on us.”
“He presented a paternity report showing Little Nina is his biological daughter, and he painted the last four years of separation as one big misunderstanding. He claimed he was deceived by Professor and Mrs. Winslow, saying he had no idea you were still alive. In short, he argued he never abused his position or did anything to damage the marriage, and just on those two points, he’s flipped the narrative about your relationship breaking down.”
“What really blew me away,” the lawyer continued, “was his final play. He produced medical records showing he was hospitalized with a serious illness four years ago, along with evidence that Professor Winslow held a funeral for you. He told the court he genuinely believed you were dead, and that these past four years of supposed separation were all part of someone else’s scheme. He cast himself as the victim…”
“Then he pulled out family vacation photos and videos–the most recent from four years ago in Ghana, where the three of you were dressed in wedding attire for Irwin’s photoshoot. I have to admit, even knowing the truth, I was nearly convinced by his performance–let alone the judge.” Briony’s frown deepened, her face growing paler by the second.
So this was the trap waiting for her in Ghana.
She closed her eyes and took a deep breath.
Stewart was absolutely shameless.
“Ms. Kensington, I did my best,” her attorney said with another sigh. “In all my years of practicing law, I’ve never faced a rival quite like Wentworth. After this case, all I can say is: the man is a real piece of work.”
Briony was so angry she couldn’t speak.
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Chapter 317
“Still, don’t lose hope. We lost this round, but we can appeal. The catch is we’ll have to wait at least six months before trying again.”
“I understand.” Briony pressed down her fury, her tone clipped. “Thank you for all your effort.”
“I’m sorry I couldn’t do more.”
“It’s not your fault. Stewart is just despicable.”
As soon as she hung up, Briony pressed a hand to her chest and sank to her knees.
She’d never expected this fight to be easy, but she also never imagined Stewart would stoop so low.
Those wedding photos from Ghana… What a cruel joke.
Hearing her lawyer describe Stewart denying the breakdown of their marriage, playing the part of the devoted husband–she couldn’t help but feel shaken.
Five years of a hidden marriage, and when had he ever truly cared for her?
Now, just to keep her trapped in this relationship, he had the gall to perform for the court, acting as if he loved her.
Why?
He didn’t love her–so why couldn’t he just let her go?
Her phone began to vibrate–Stewart was calling.
Briony stared at his name on the screen for a long moment before finally answering.
“Your lawyer told you?” Stewart’s deep voice came through the line.
Briony’s lips curled into a bitter smile. “Did you enjoy your little performance?”
There was a pause, as if he was confused. “Didn’t your lawyer mention Irwin?”
“He did,” Briony’s voice was cold, emotionless. “Whether or not Irwin is your son doesn’t matter to me anymore.”
“I never told you before because Irwin’s situation is complicated,” Stewart replied, his tone turning serious. “His father was a close friend of mine who died in the line of duty. Everything about him has to stay confidential. I can’t say more. Knowing too much wouldn’t be good for you.”
“So what?” Briony didn’t want to hear it. All she wanted was a divorce–now, as soon as possible.
“Stewart, are you going to tell me next that nothing ever happened with Rosita? That it was all some big act?”
“There was never anything between me and Rosita,” Stewart said, voice icy. “All those rumors online were staged for the Lockwoods‘ benefit. She’s had a hard time with that family, and she
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went through hell having Irwin. I was just helping her.”
Briony listened, finding it all laughable.
“Maybe four years ago I would have cared,” she said flatly. “But now, all I want is a divorce.”
“I’m telling you this because I don’t believe any of it is a good reason for us to get divorced. Beyond these issues, I can’t see why we should.”
“We have no love for each other. We’re just putting up a front,” Briony snapped. “That’s reason enough.”
“But our marriage was a business arrangement from the very beginning.”
Briony froze.
“When I married you, divorce was never an option,” Stewart said quietly. “Marriage is about mutual benefit. We had a happy family–now we have Little Nina too. For the sake of the children, we shouldn’t end this.”
“Stewart!” Briony couldn’t take it anymore. “You make me sick!”
She hung up.
He called again.
Briony declined and blocked his number.
She hadn’t been this furious in years. Her chest ached, her breath coming in short, ragged bursts.
The sliding door opened and Ferdinand strode onto the balcony. “Ms. Kensington?”
Briony slowly looked up at him.
He studied her pale face, concern in his eyes as he knelt down in front of her. “Are you feeling alright?”
She shook her head, struggling to steady her emotions.
“Anger isn’t worth your health.” Ferdinand helped her to her feet, his voice gentle. “Mrs. Hudson is awake.”
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