Chapter 36: Bound by vows

(Lina)

I spent the rest of the night organizing my notes and thoughts, putting together every piece of evidence I'd gathered about Nicholas and Elara's lies and schemes.

It was a cold comfort, but knowing I was one step closer to freeing myself from this made it bearable. 

When the first light of the morning peeked through my curtains, I finally closed my notebook, feeling more focused and ready than I had in months. Today was the day I'd finally take back control, even if it was only one small step.

The morning passed quietly until the lawyer arrived, just as I'd asked. I could tell he was nervous even before he sat down, casting glances over his shoulder as if expecting Nicholas to storm into the room at any moment.

I didn't blame him. The last time he was here, Nicholas had burst in, furious, accusing me of betrayal and ripping up the divorce papers.