Chapter 80

No matter how long he dragged things out, the court would finalize the divorce in two years, no matter what.

After the hearing, Lucie stepped out of the courthouse, the midsummer sun so harsh it made her eyes ache. She slid on her sunglasses and pulled up her mask, glancing at her watch-two and a half hours until her flight. She still had to make it to the airport and then rush back to the training center that afternoon.

Behind her, Steven hurried after her. "Lucie, wait-"

Security immediately stepped in. "Mr. Heath, please don't come any closer."

Just then, Cody squeezed through the crowd, his cheeks still streaked with tears. "Mommy, the judge said you don't have to get divorced! Come home with me and Daddy, please. We need you." He stretched his arms up, wanting a hug.

Lucie paused, just for a moment, but then turned firmly toward her car. "Mommy, Mommy-!" Cody's voice trailed behind her.

By the time she reached the parking lot, a swarm of gossip reporters had already gathered. Even though she and Steven had tried to keep things quiet, word about the divorce had still gotten out. The moment Lucie appeared, the reporters rushed at her.

"Mrs. Heath, were you in court for a divorce hearing today?"

"Is it true your marriage with Mr. Heath is over?"

"Mrs. Heath, why are you divorcing Mr. Heath? Is it because he cheated on you?"

Security quickly formed a barrier, blocking the reporters from getting close. "Please step back."

"Mrs. Heath, just a few words-"

Lucie felt her heart clench. After a pause, she took a mic from one of the reporters.

"Yes, Steven and I are going through a divorce," she said, her voice calm and clear. "But it's not because of any of those rumors. He is a good person. We just aren't right for each other and decided it's best to part ways. I hope everyone can respect that and stop speculating. Thank you."

She handed the mic back and, with her security team shielding her, got into the

car.

"To the airport," she said quietly.

"Yes, ma'am."

As the car pulled away from the crowd, Lucie leaned back and took off her mask

and sunglasses. Slowly, a sense of calm washed over her.

She hadn't asked for anything in the divorce-no alimony, no

compensation, not even custody of her son. Every gift Steven had ever given her she'd returned without hesitation. No mudslinging, no drama, no fights or debts. She just wanted a clean break.

That was her last bit of dignity. She loved with everything she had, but when it was time to walk away, she'd do it cleanly and without regret. That was her rule.

"We're at the airport, miss."

"Thank you."

After getting out, Lucie called her grandfather. The phone rang just a moment before he picked up.

"Lucie, how did things go?"

"Grandpa, the court didn't grant the divorce in the first hearing. I've already filed

an appeal and formally requested separation."

"How are you feeling?" His voice was

gentle, but she could hear the worry. He was afraid she was just

pretending to be strong. After Si

who wouldn't be upset over @ divorce?

"I'm alright, Grandpa. I'm at the airport now. I have to rush back the training center this afternoon. The exhibition is in a week, and I need to give it my best content

“Okay. Just take care of yourself and don't push too hard."

"I will, Grandpa. You take care too, and please don't worry about me. I'll be just

fine."