The lawyer faltered. “No, Your Honor, but—”
Jennifer stood, calm and measured, her presence filling the room. “Your Honor, there is no contract. What they are attempting is retaliation for exercising legal rights and for refusing to comply with unreasonable demands. They destroyed property, misrepresented their intentions, and now seek a windfall that has no legal foundation.”
The judge’s eyes narrowed. “Explain the property issue.”
Jennifer slid a set of photos across the table. “This is their backyard, the morning after Elise revealed her winnings. They burned the ceremonial check in a fit of anger, thinking they could intimidate her. The funds had already been secured in accounts and investments—untouchable. Their act was symbolic, malicious, and intended to coerce her.”
I watched my parents’ faces. Shock, embarrassment, disbelief. Natalie’s fingers trembled over the edge of her seat. My mother’s lips pressed into a thin line. My father’s posture sagged.
Jennifer continued, “We also have records of repeated attempts over the years to manipulate Elise financially, including social media posts, emails, and text messages showing deliberate intent to exploit her. They will argue emotional distress—but all evidence shows that Elise has been consistently responsible and independent.”
The courtroom was silent. Even the air seemed to pause, as if holding its breath for the next word.
The judge leaned back in her chair. “I see. No contract, no entitlement, and evidence of coercion. This lawsuit is without merit.” She looked over her glasses. “I am allowing discovery, but I strongly suggest your clients reconsider the wisdom of pursuing this further. Frivolous claims can result in sanctions.”
A shiver of satisfaction ran through me. Jennifer gave a small, approving nod.
When we left the courtroom, my mother tried to step forward. “Elise, please—”
Jennifer positioned herself between us, firm. “No.”
I didn’t speak. I didn’t need to. The look on her face said it all: there was nothing left to say, nothing left to salvage.
For the first time in my life, I felt a clarity that had nothing to do with money. It had to do with boundaries. With self-preservation. With finally being able to choose myself without fear.
And it was liberating.
