“Furthermore, as restitution for the hidden assets, the court awards the petitioner the full equity of the marital residence,” Judge Vance read from her notes.

“And finally, the court awards the petitioner fifty-one percent of the voting shares of Mercer Development.”

That was the majority.

I now held the controlling interest in the company I had helped build from a two-room office.

Daniel finally raised his head, his mouth open as if to speak, but his attorney put a hand on his shoulder to quiet him.

“This court is adjourned,” Judge Vance said, striking her gavel.

The sharp crack of the wood signaled the end of my marriage and the beginning of my independence.

Robert turned to me, a quiet, professional smile on his face.

“You got everything back, Clara,” he said.

“Not everything,” I said, thinking of the years of deception. “But enough to start over.”

We walked out of the courthouse into the bright afternoon sun.

Patricia was already waiting by the steps, her eyes flashing with anger.

“You think you’ve won, Clara?” she hissed as I passed. “You don’t know the first thing about running that company anymore.”