Chapter 51
Chapter 51:
Miriam’s tone was always authoritative when she spoke with Ashton. “You’ll have some time to get ready. We’re meeting at the Fusion Cafe on South Road at 1 PM. Just so you know, you need to finalize the divorce procedures with my daughter today. If this delays her marriage to Phillip, you’re going to regret it p>
Ashton was irritated by her tone but chose not to respond. He had already signed the divorce papers and was eager to put the James family behind him. The continuous harassment from Phillip and his associates over the past few days had only deepened his resolve.
After handling his initial duties at the university, and since he hadn’t yet been assigned any classes, Ashton left for the cafe at the agreed time. Upon his arrival, however, he found that Emalee was absent. Instead, Miriam and Phillip were there, smug grins plastered on their faces.
Ashton was displeased to see them both. He could sense trouble without needing to guess their intentions. As soon as Miriam spotted Ashton entering, she approached him rapidly, not allowing him the chance to utter a single word.
Miriam confronted him as soon as he walked in. “Ashton! I’ve heard you’re enjoying yourself these days. You’ve been living in luxury and showering gifts on other women. Are you trying to suggest that the James family mistreated you p>
“Are you implying that the James family has ever treated me well?” Ashton responded sharply.
Miriam’s expression soured. Her voice was icy as she grunted, “Enough with the games! Don’t think I’m unaware. You’ve undoubtedly pocketed the money Emalee gave you, haven’t you? Emalee might be too proud to admit it, but I know my daughter. I suggest you return what’s left of the money. Maybe then I’ll drop the issue p>
Despite saying this, Miriam was aware of the entire truth. She was simply bluffing, seeking any reason to claim more of Ashton’s assets. In her view, Ashton had previously lashed out only out of desperation.
She believed that Ashton, who had seemed so compliant, would easily be intimidated again. Sadly for her, she was mistaken. Ashton had only ever tolerated her for Emalee’s sake. Now, witnessing Miriam’s arrogance, he couldn’t help but chuckle at her.
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“Ha-ha! So, it bothers you that I’ve found success since leaving the James family?” Ashton asked.
Ashton was ready for their accusations and had prepared evidence to refute them. After making his point, he dramatically produced a bank statement, placing it assertively on the table.
“Take a good look. This account is registered under the Campbell family name. Besides the initial deposit, there have been no additional funds added. The money I’ve earned has nothing to do with Emalee. I won’t explain this again p>
Phillip, on the other hand, merely scoffed at the evidence. With a dismissive gesture, he snatched the statement, tore it into shreds, and tossed the pieces into the trash can.
Puffing up with the arrogance typical of a seasoned lawyer, he declared confidently, “So what if you have proof? Did you forget what my profession is? Here’s a tip: while we’re still open to discuss, you should just hand over the money p>
Ashton fixed a cold gaze on Phillip and inquired calmly, “And what if I refuse p>
Phillip’s expression twisted into a malicious grin. “You can refuse, of course. But remember, I have numerous ways to force your hand. For instance, I can drag you through a property division case. You’ll not only lose but also end up paying for all the legal expenses p>