Chapter 2: The Fall
Chapter 2: The Fall
Two days later, Adrian's lawyer contacted me.
Not to apologize.
To threaten me.
The letter claimed Adrian was entitled to half my inheritance because we were still legally married.
I forwarded everything to Mr. Delgado.
My father's attorney smiled when he read it.
"He's desperate."
"Why?"
"Because your father was smarter than he is."
Mr. Delgado opened a folder.
Years ago, my parents had created legal protections around their assets.
The inheritance had been placed in a trust that belonged solely to me.
Adrian couldn't touch a single dollar.
Not one.
The moment he learned that, his behavior became even more reckless.
He started calling constantly.
Then texting.
Then begging.
The messages changed from threats to apologies.
Isabella, please.
I made mistakes.
I still love you.
We can fix this.
I ignored every one of them.
Then the security footage was reviewed.
The video clearly showed Adrian grabbing my hair.
It showed him forcing documents toward me.
It captured every threat.
When my attorney informed him that criminal charges were being considered, panic set in.
A week later, Vanessa left him.
Apparently, she had only stayed because she believed he would gain access to millions.
Once she realized there was no money, she disappeared.
Just like he had disappeared when my parents needed him.
For the first time in years, Adrian stood completely alone.
But he still wasn't finished.
One rainy evening, he appeared outside my house again.
This time without arrogance.
Without anger.
Without Vanessa.
Just desperation.
"I've lost everything," he said.
I stared at him through the doorway.
The man who once made me feel small now looked broken.
"I know," I replied.
Tears filled his eyes.
"I never thought you'd leave me."
I looked at him for a long moment.
Then I said the words I should have spoken years ago.
May you like
"You left me first."
And I closed the door.
