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"There's no need for court..."
He glanced at Amanda.
"They... need to survive."
My smile was bitter.
Of course. His biggest fear was Amanda's reputation.
If we went to court, not only would his negligence be public record, but Amanda would be branded a "homewrecker" by the media.
"But... Emily, I'll agree to everything else. Can I keep the Upper West Side apartment?"
Amanda panicked.
"Michael~ How can you agree to that!
You worked so hard for that money!
Besides, Lucas and I need a place to live..."
Michael ignored her, staring intently at me.
"That is my only request."
"Denied." My answer was flat, immediate, and final.
Slap!
A slap hit my face without warning.
Amanda glared at me, seething with rage.
"You bitch!
Don't push it!
"Michael worked hard to buy that place! What right do you have to take it!"
My cheek burned. Michael panicked, reaching out to stop Amanda, but he was too late.
I raised my hand high and delivered a thunderous slap across Amanda's face.
Even in heels, she was shorter than me. The force sent her stumbling back, crashing into the wall.
"I have the right because the deed is in my name! Because I bought that apartment with cash! My cash!"
I looked down at her.