Quinn wasn't having it. "Why shouldn't you take the money? He's the one who cheated! He's the one who ruined this marriage. You wasted the best years of your life on him and risked your life to give him a daughter. You deserve every single cent you're owed!"
Riley offered a bitter smile. "I didn't marry him for his money. I married him because I loved him. Now that I don't want him anymore, what do I need his money for?
Besides, his mother and Grandpa Arthur never liked me. If he refuses to divorce, I could try to use them to pressure him. But if I demand half his assets, they definitely won't help me. I just want out, as fast as possible."
She had never been the type to drag things out. Now that she had made her decision, she just wanted to be free.
As a lawyer, Quinn knew all too well that in wealthy divorces, couples often reached an ugly, drawn-out stalemate over money.
If Riley gave up her claim to the assets, the divorce would indeed go much smoother. But Quinn just couldn't stand seeing Riley walk away empty-handed.
Then again, Riley had no real power. How could she possibly go toe-to-toe with the mighty Landon family? If she really wanted out, taking the loss might be her only option.
Quinn let out a heavy sigh. "Fine, maybe it's better this way. At least it won't drain you completely. I'll be right beside you through this whole battle."
Riley squeezed Quinn's hand. "Thank God for you. Thank God I have you."
Riley didn't go back home that night. She knew hiding out wouldn't solve the problem, but she wanted to allow herself one night of weakness. Just one night to lick her wounds and sever her ties to the past.
The next morning.
Riley woke up and turned on her phone.
There were numerous missed calls from Pierce, along with several messages.
The gist of the texts was that he had stopped by her family's house and learned about the trouble with Ross the night before. He figured she was in a bad mood and tried to console her, saying Ross was still young and could be guided over time. He promised to give her space but insisted she call him if she needed anything.
Riley had been wondering how to explain her sudden disappearance last night. Since Pierce had handed her the perfect excuse, she decided to play along.
She replied: [Got it.]



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