The Billionaire Ex-Wife and the Beggar He Became novel Chapter 1

It was a late autumn afternoon.

Winona Perkins sat before her computer, reviewing the documents several times over. Only after she was certain nothing was amiss did she send them off—one copy each to her attorney and to the court clerk.

Then she printed two more copies.

After completing everything, she picked up her phone and called Julian Nicholson, her husband. He answered almost immediately.

His voice was so cold and distant that Winona felt a chill seep into her bones.

"What is it?" Julian asked.

"Could we have dinner together tonight? Just the three of us?" Winona's voice was soft, almost tentative. She paused before adding, "I've already made a reservation."

She and Julian had been married for six years today.It was also Winona's birthday.

And a quiet suspicion told her it would be the last dinner the three of them would ever share as a family.She hoped Julian wouldn't turn her down.

"Text me the address," he replied, his tone flat and indifferent.

Winona managed a gentle smile and said,"Alright. I'll pick up our daughter from school and then—"

The call ended abruptly, cutting her off.Her smile stiffened and died. What remained was a quiet resignation, yet a new resolve shone through.It was just after four o'clock.

Winona put the two printed documents into her bag. She'd hand them to Julian after dinner. Then, she grabbed her purse and headed out to pick up their daughter.

Half an hour later, she pulled up in front of her daughter's preschool.

She was about to get out of the car when she saw Julian and Felicity Shepherd walking toward her, holding Tiana's hands.

Then she said, "Oh, Miss Felly, today's your birthday, isn't it? I know the thing you want most is that sapphire necklace my mom took from you. I'll call her right now and tell her to give it back! My mom is awful, but she always does what I say!"

With that, Tiana tapped her smartwatch and dialed Winona's number.

Inside the car, Winona's phone rang loud and clear.

All three outside turned instantly, their eyes landing on Winona's car.

There was no escape. Winona made herself step from the car, step by step, until she stood before the three of them. The silence that followed was more excruciating than any sound.

"Mommy, were you spying on us? You're so annoying!" Tiana announced, her little face full of righteous indignation.

Winona's face was pale as she forced a smile. She asked, "Tiana, do you remember what today is?"