The Billionaire Ex-Wife and the Beggar He Became novel Chapter 129

The phone in Julian's office rang for ages before someone finally picked up. It was Julian's executive assistant, Gideon.

As soon as Gideon realized it was the courthouse calling—specifically about the subpoena from a couple of days ago—he was at a loss for words. He had personally delivered the letter to Mr. Nicholson; whether Mr. Nicholson had read it or not, well, that was something he'd have to check with Mr. Nicholson before giving any answers.

"Good afternoon, Your Honor. Could you tell me who filed the complaint against Mr. Nicholson… Hello?" Gideon stared at the receiver, listening to the harsh beeping as the line went dead.

On the other end, the clerk who'd hung up was more than a little annoyed. He muttered, "I was planning to send Mr. Nicholson's divorce papers in an open envelope, but considering his status as one of Greenwood City's most prominent figures, I thought I'd be discreet and seal it. If word got out about his divorce, it could be bad for his reputation. So I sealed the letter and sent it straight to him. And what does he do? Fobs me off with his assistant. Never mind, I'll send it again—this time, no more secrecy."

He turned to Winona. "Ms. Perkins, I'm sorry. Just give me one more day—by tomorrow, I guarantee he'll get the papers."

"No problem," Winona replied, completely understanding. After all, everyone was a little wary of Julian's power and how much he influenced the city.

What was one more day, really?

It actually worked out perfectly. Tomorrow, after bidding against Julian for that piece of land, she could finalize the divorce. Two milestones in one day—it felt like a double victory. After bidding the clerk goodbye, Winona left the courthouse.

She'd barely stepped outside when Gideon called back. Ever the diligent assistant, Gideon was nothing if not thorough. He figured the subpoena had to be important, otherwise the court wouldn't have called Mr. Nicholson personally.

But this time, no one picked up. After waiting for what felt like forever, Gideon finally hung up.

"I thought about having Yates, the butler, talk to her, but then it would get the whole family involved. That would only complicate things between Julian and Felly. I don't want Winona interfering with Julian and Felly's relationship, but I do want her to stay on as the family's housekeeper. After thinking it over, I decided you're the best person to handle this," Janetta said, her tone leaving no room for argument.

Gideon's jaw practically hit the floor. "Me? You want me to approach—Mrs.—Winona and ask her to be the Nicholsons' housekeeper?"

"Yes, exactly. You'll do it as a company matter—hire her through the firm with an official contract. That way, it keeps things professional and there's no personal connection to Julian," Janetta explained.

Now it all made sense to Gideon. Janetta wanted Winona back in the house, dutifully cooking and cleaning, but she also didn't want her anywhere near Mr. Nicholson's personal life—or his relationship with Miss Shepherd.