She turned a page. The sound was like a dry branch snapping.

“The evidence of systemic asset diversion, fraud, and identity theft is not merely persuasive,” the judge said.

“It is overwhelming.”

Vivian drew in a sharp, audible breath through her nose.

She sat perfectly rigid, her chin tilted upward, refusing to look at the bench.

“Mr. Hartwell,” the judge said, her voice dropping to a colder register.

“You have attempted to use this court, and the laws of this state, to shield yourself from your own criminal conduct.”

“Your Honor,” Carter’s attorney began, half-rising from his chair.

“Sit down, Mr. Vance,” the judge said without looking at him.

The attorney sat down immediately, his face flushing red.

“Let the record show that the prenuptial agreement signed by the parties is fully enforceable,” Judge Vance continued.

“Furthermore, the court finds that the defendant, Carter Hartwell, committed egregious financial fraud during the marriage.”

She picked up a black pen and made a notation on the paper.

“This fraud directly impacted the assets of the company founded by the plaintiff’s family.”

“Therefore, the court orders the immediate partition of all marital property.”