Chapter 2: The Documents That Changed Everything
Victoria Hayes arrived exactly seven minutes later.
She stepped out of a black sedan carrying nothing more than a leather briefcase and a calm expression.
Unlike Patricia, she didn't raise her voice.
She didn't need to.
"Mrs. Montgomery," Victoria said politely.
"I represent Madison Ellis."
Patricia crossed her arms.
"Perfect. Tell your client to stop wasting everyone's time."
Victoria smiled faintly.
"I'm afraid that won't be possible."
She handed a folder to the police officer supervising the scene.
Inside were certified copies of the property's title, mortgage records, tax history, and the prenuptial agreement Ryan had signed before the wedding.
The officer carefully reviewed each page.
Then looked at Ryan.
"Sir... according to these records, you have never held any ownership interest in this property."
Ryan swallowed.
"There has to be some mistake."
"There isn't."
Victoria opened another folder.
"During discovery, we also uncovered something else."
She held up several invoices.
"Mr. Montgomery submitted renovation expenses during the divorce, claiming he personally invested nearly $480,000 into this home."
She looked directly at him.
"Every receipt was forged."
A murmur spread through the gathered neighbors.
Vanessa slowly lowered her phone.
"What?"
Victoria continued.
"The contractors confirmed every payment came from Madison's personal trust account."
Patricia's confident smile began to disappear.
Ryan stared at the ground.
May you like
For the first time all afternoon...
He had no answer.
