My husband called it "his hotel." He forgot one detail that changed everything before midnight.

Celeste requested a private meeting.

Her lawyer accompanied her to Laurent Capital’s headquarters.

Gone were the silk robe and mocking smile.

She wore a plain gray dress and carried a folder against her chest.

“I can prove Marcus planned to take control of Isabella’s trust,” she said.

Evelyn Shaw remained expressionless.

“In exchange for what?”

“Protection from the civil case.”

Isabella studied her.

Celeste had been cruel, but she was no longer confident. Her eyes kept moving toward the door.

“What evidence?” Isabella asked.

Celeste placed the folder on the table.

Inside were copies of messages, recordings, and draft legal documents.

Marcus had planned to manufacture evidence that Isabella was mentally incapable of managing her finances. He had contacted a private physician willing to write a false evaluation.

Once Theodore died, Marcus intended to petition for control of Isabella’s assets.

Celeste believed she would become his new wife after the divorce.

Then she discovered messages showing Marcus had promised the same future to another woman in Los Angeles.

“You thought you were his partner,” Isabella said.

Celeste looked down.

“I thought I was different.”

“So did I.”

Celeste’s mouth tightened.

“I know you hate me.”

“I don’t know you well enough to hate you.”

“I took your husband.”

“No. You helped him reveal himself.”

Celeste flinched.

Isabella pushed the folder toward Evelyn.

“We will not interfere with any investigation. We will consider your cooperation when pursuing repayment, but you will return every item purchased with company money.”

Celeste nodded.

“And the brooch?”

Isabella’s gaze hardened.

“You knew it belonged to my mother.”

“Yes.”

“Why did you wear it?”

Celeste was silent for several seconds.

“Because Marcus said it would prove he had chosen me.”

Isabella stood.