Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown

Chapter 227

In the legal circles of the Republic of Valeria, there's a saying: in Alderburg, you turn to Julia Lawrence; in Northspire, you call on Nestor Leighton.

Lawrence, of course, refers to Julia Lawrence of Alderburg, while the "Leighton" in question is none other than the man standing before her now-Nestor Leighton, Northspire's most renowned attorney.

Both Julia and Nestor are legends among the new generation of lawyers, undefeated in the courtroom.

Especially Nestor Leighton.

There's an old joke: if you go up against Leighton-even when you have the law on your side you'll still come out battered and bruised.

So, word travels fast. Whenever people hear that Nestor Leighton is representing the other side, they know better than to bother fighting. Whoever doesn't have him on their team is almost guaranteed to lose.

Director Thomas had mentioned to her before that Penelope planned to take her to court to reclaim the antiques. He'd reassured her, saying as long as Penelope didn't hire one of the top lawyers, there was absolutely nothing to worry about.

Famous last words.

Not only had Penelope managed to hire a top lawyer-she'd secured the very best.

Serena looked up at the strikingly handsome man before her. "May I ask you a question?"

replied politely, all charm and civility, not an ounce of hostility. It was hard to imagine anyone associating this man with the word

her chin, locking eyes with him. "With Penelope's connections, there's no way she could have convinced you

a diplomatic smile. "I'm afraid I

tone cooled. "Is it someone

then said, "You...

through Serena's mind,

recovered, smiling as if nothing was amiss. "Miss Sullivan, I'm sorry,

from his briefcase and slipped it out

ease.

a few days ago, Aaron had told her she could never protect the antiques on her own. Now, suddenly, a top-tier

the clout to bring

was so eager to prove himself right that he'd teamed up with Penelope

chill run through her. She slammed

at the door's abrupt closure, then calmly slid the summons through

duty; the message

long moment, trembling before she finally regained control. She stared at the door, her

just leave her alone? She'd already stepped aside and let him have his happy