Because of the gravity of the financial fraud, the judge also ordered full restitution.

In the civil division, Marisol secured the final judgment.

The forged deeds were declared null and void.

The court awarded me sole, unencumbered ownership of our Miami condo.

Every joint account was frozen and the remaining funds transferred to my name.

Derek’s share of the marital assets was stripped to pay for the restitution and legal fees.

Stephanie received a suspended sentence and probation, but she was broke.

She left Florida a week later, her calls to me going unanswered.

On a Saturday morning, I stood on the balcony of my condo.

The ocean breeze was warm, carrying the scent of salt water.

The sun was rising over the Atlantic, turning the sky a pale pink.

I looked down at my hands, then touched the scar on my collarbone.

It didn’t hurt anymore.

The apartment was quiet, filled only with the sound of the wind.

It was finally mine, and I was finally safe.