The annulment was granted. The court barred retaliation, ordered continued medical support for Clara, and blocked third-party pressure.
Victor’s local reputation cooled. Invitations stopped. His timeline kept ticking.
Months later, Jacob called from prison, voice lighter: “They say he’s fighting the estate clause in court. Calling it unfair.”
Ava almost smiled. “Unfair.”
Her father’s voice cracked. “I’m proud of you, Ava. You didn’t let him own you.”
On a crisp fall day, Ava and Clara sat by Lake Mendota, watching water glitter under weak sun.
“Do you regret saying yes?” Clara asked.
Ava stared across the lake. “I regret believing I had to trade myself. But I don’t regret leaving. Or fighting.”
Clara squeezed her hand. “That’s my girl.”
Ava breathed in the cold air. No contracts. No lies. Just choices, hard-won and honest.
Somewhere, Victor’s year was running out.
But it no longer belonged to her.
Not even a second.
