So I spent eight years running Grant’s household, managing his social obligations, and dealing with his impossible mother.
Then, during mediation, his lawyer argued that I had contributed very little financially and therefore deserved almost nothing.
Their settlement offer was insulting.
A lump sum barely enough to cover two years of rent.
No meaningful alimony.
No proper share of retirement accounts I had never been able to build because I had been discouraged from working.
Daniel listened without interrupting.
Then he smiled.
“My client accepts.”
I almost jumped out of my chair.
Later, in the hallway, I confronted him.
“Why did you agree to that? It’s insulting.”
Daniel remained calm.
“Because they think they’re winning.”
I stared at him.
“They’ve decided to keep their property separate and give you almost nothing in exchange for you giving up any claim against Grant’s assets. They believe Patricia’s house is completely outside this divorce. They believe you have nothing.”
