Chapter 8 - The Locks Changed
Claire asked Ethan to leave the villa.
The house had been Claire’s before the marriage and remained her separate property under their prenuptial agreement.
Ethan knew that.
He still looked shocked when the request became real.
“You're throwing me out before we even talk?”
“We've been talking for years. I just didn't know what conversation we were actually having.”
He packed two suitcases.
Claire did not watch.
Rachel stayed upstairs while Ethan collected his clothes.
When he reached the foyer, he stopped beneath the same landing.
The place where he had caught Claire.
“I saved you.”
Claire looked at him.
It was the wrong sentence.
Ethan seemed to realize it immediately.
“I didn't mean—”
“Yes, you saved me.”
Claire stepped closer.
“And I'm grateful I'm standing here.”
His face softened slightly.
Then she continued.
“But you don't get to turn one decent instinct into payment for eleven months of betrayal.”
Ethan looked down.
Claire had the exterior access codes changed after he left.
She did not empty joint accounts.
She did not try to ruin his company.
She moved her direct deposits and personal expenses into an account in her own name, following her attorney's advice.
Then she formally postponed all discussions about guaranteeing Ethan’s debt.
By evening, Ethan's lender had been informed.
At 8:14 p.m., Claire received one message from him.
You have no idea what you've just done.
She stared at it.
May you like
Then answered.
For the first time, neither do you.
