Chapter 12 - The Grand Settlement
One month later, the final divorce hearing took place inside the New York Supreme Court building in Lower Manhattan.
Julian sat at the defense table alone, his court-appointed attorney looking thoroughly exhausted by the entire proceeding.
On my side of the courtroom sat four top-tier matrimonial attorneys from Vanguard's legal department.
The judge, a stern elderly woman named Justice Abernathy, reviewed the prenuptial agreement and financial disclosures.
"Mr. Vance," Justice Abernathy said, looking over her spectacles at Julian.
"The evidence clearly shows that you contributed zero equity to the purchase or maintenance of the Tribeca property."
"Furthermore, you diverted joint marital funds to enrich your brother's estate in Ohio without your wife's consent."
"Therefore, this court upholds the prenuptial agreement in its entirety."
"You are granted zero financial settlement, zero spousal support, and zero claims to Vanguard Trust assets."
Julian didn't even fight back; he simply nodded his head silently, staring down at the polished wooden table.
"Regarding parental rights," Justice Abernathy continued, her voice softening slightly as she looked at me.
"Mrs. Vance will retain full legal and physical custody of the child upon birth."
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"Supervised visitation for Mr. Vance will be re-evaluated after he completes mandatory psychological counseling and secures stable housing."
The gavel struck the sound block with a sharp crack, officially ending our marriage forever.
