Chapter 7 Courthouse

“You find what about Robertson?” Claire and Matthew entered the luxurious penthouse. “I found information about him.” Curiosity etched on Matt face. “What kind of information?” Claire poured herself a glass of whiskey and downed the content in one swift. “That the bastard is not only a cheater but also a stealer.” Matthew's brow furrowed in confusion. “What do you mean by stealer?” Claire leaned against the countertop; her expression troubled. “I found some unusual transactions from an overseas bank in the company's financial records. They happen every three months, like clockwork, and they're for substantial sums.” Matthew's eyes widened in realization. “You think Robert's embezzling money?” Claire nodded grimly. “It's a possibility. Either that, or he's bought someone off to cover his tracks.” Matthew's jaw tightened, his fists clenching at his sides. “We need to expose him.” Claire nodded in agreement. “I agree with you, but I still need to dig deeper and collect more solid evidence.” “Tell me what I can do to help. I will do anything to help you.” “Thanks, Matt but for now I am capable to handle it myself.” “Okay, I’m off. Tell me if you need anything.” Determined, Claire set to work, combing through financial records, and digging for any shred of evidence that would expose Robert's corruption. Her mind reeling with disbelief at how she had once trusted Robert. He had seemed so supportive when they started the company together, but now she realized he had simply been letting her do all the hard work while he took the credit. Pushing aside her frustration, Claire focused on the task at hand. She needed to gather information to confront Robert and regain full control of her company. As she delved into her research, a notification popped up on her screen. Claire rolled her eyes, feeling slightly annoyed. It was another email from Alexander Harris, the persistent businessman who had been trying to contact her. “Doesn't he ever give up?” Claire muttered to herself, irritation creeping into her voice. Ignoring the email, Claire decided she'd had enough of Alexander's persistent attempts to reach her. With a determined click of her mouse, she blocked any email linked to Alexander Harris, ensuring he couldn't contact her again. Alex sat in the back of the car; frustration gnawed at him. Stuck in traffic, he glanced anxiously at his watch. It read 8:15. “Shit.” He was already running late for his visit to the hospital before heading to the courthouse. “Forget the hospital. Just drive straight to the courthouse.” Realizing he had no choice but to skip the hospital visit. “Sorry, Lisa.” He muttered. His fingers tapped impatiently on his phone as he attempted to text Lisa to let her know that he won’t be coming to the hospital to check on her. “Damn it, of all days,” Alex groaned aloud, his frustration mounting. His phone was dead. The driver glanced at him through the rearview mirror, concern evident in his eyes. “Everything okay, Mr. Alex?” “No, everything's not alright,” he snapped. “My phone's dead, and I'm stuck in this godforsaken traffic. Today just isn't my day.” Alex sighed heavily, rubbing his temples in exasperation. Alex arrived late, much to Claire's annoyance. She had been there since 8:30, and his tardiness irked her. She couldn't help but find it ironic how he had been the one to threaten her to be present, yet here he was, running late. Claire trudged over to where Alex stood, talking to his lawyer. She couldn't resist snapping at him for wasting her time. “Nice of you to join us, Alex, you've already wasted 15 minutes of my time. I could have done a lot in those 15 minutes.” she said, her tone laced with sarcasm. Seeing Claire again stirred up mixed emotions in Alex. He couldn't help but notice the changes in her appearance. Her hair, clothes, even her lipstick—all different from the Claire he once knew. She seemed bolder, almost like a completely different person. She was dressed in a vintage white blazer dress paired with black thigh-highs and towering stilettos. Alex frowned. “What happened to you, Claire? And what are you wearing? You have never wear those and red lipstick?” Claire raised an eyebrow, unimpressed by his scrutiny. “Who do you think you are, ordering me around? Don’t tell me you have second thought about divorcing me?” Alex's jaw clenched in frustration. “Don't be ridiculous. I should be the one saying that to you since you are so manipulative and cheeky.” “Funny how you are still trying to control me even in the courthouse. I could say you are the one who is obsessed with me.” Alex chuckled coldly. “Me? Obsessed with you? If one day you ran out of money, you can use your joker skill to entertain people.” Claires scoffed as she stared at him in disbelief. “I can’t believe that I marry a narcissistic jerk like you. Who always blame women even if it is your fault.” Claire took a step forward as they faced each staring eye to eye. “I feel sorry for Lisa who have to marry a guy like you. I hope her life will be much better than mine or maybe worse…who knows.” Alex clenched his jaw to suppress his anger. Today has been a lot for Alex and now he has to deal with his ex-wife. It seems today, luck is not on Alexander Harris side. Claire smirked in satisfaction at her response. She really enjoy this brave, courageous, and determined Claire not the old Claire whose weak and constantly need Alex even begged him. She can’t help feeling disgusted by her old self. Their conversation was interrupted by the call to enter the courtroom. “From now on, I wish to not ever see you again.” Claire states boldly. Alex gritted his teeth and glared at her. “I’m wishing the same thing.”