Chapter 1122 Cassie, Isn't He Silly?
When Megan finished crying, Cherie turned to Joseph and said, "Go ahead."
Joseph stood up, looking at Megan with a mix of sorrow and regret. "If someone asked about my first love, I'd call it a nightmare. Meeting you was my biggest regret. You were my sunshine in my youth, so I treated you like family and gave you everything for over ten years. You and your family took whatever you wanted. It wasn't until you disappeared for a few years that I got married. My marriage to Cassie started as a contract, but I fell in love with her over time. When you came back, I felt guilty and helped you with anything, not realizing I was hurting Cassie, which led to our three-year separation. I regret it deeply, especially after learning the truth. I drowned myself in alcohol daily, wishing I could end it all. Out of regret and to atone, I even cut off my own fingers."
He showed his bandaged fingers, shocking everyone.
Joseph continued, "Some things Nathan mentioned, I just found out. I don't owe Megan anything. I only feel sorry for my ex-wife, Cassie. I once thought she was vain and bad. I misunderstood her and owe her a lot. If any man is in my situation, know that an ex is just an ex. Once you're married, cut ties. Don't hurt your wife. I want the $10 billion back, not because I need it, but because Megan doesn't deserve it. A greedy woman like her shouldn't have that much money. It sets a bad example, making people think they can gain by deceiving others."
Joseph stared at Megan. "I hope you earn money on your own in the future."
When he finished, Megan's face turned pale.
Joseph was powerful.
He made a long personal confession and tied it to a positive social message.
The case had become significant, so Cherie would focus more on the positive social impact.
Sure enough, Cherie became more serious. After discussing with the judges, she said, "After two hearings, we believe Megan should return the $10 billion and Seaside Haven to Joseph. This money never belonged to Megan. As for Joseph's expenses on Megan over the past ten years, there's no need to recover them. This is a punishment for Joseph. Betraying his wife and children is his fault, and this is a lesson for him."
Cherie looked at Megan. "You shouldn't gain huge benefits by deceiving feelings. What you have is something many people can never get, even with a lifetime of hard work. Don't be too greedy. This case is officially closed. Court is adjourned."
After Cherie left, Megan slumped in her chair, devastated. Her $10 billion was gone, like it vanished into thin air.
On top of that, Cherie had scolded her in court, adding insult to injury.
Mark glanced at her indifferently and then walked over to Joseph. "Madison's top lawyer, huh? You lost the first trial on purpose, didn't you? To make the case bigger and highlight the negative impact. $10 billion is enough to make anyone envious. If the judge didn't rule in your favor, it would encourage others to follow Megan's example."
"Exactly, but you figured it out too late," Joseph smiled. "Whether I called Nathan in for the second trial or not, the outcome would be the same. Even if the judge thought I was wrong, she had to rule in my favor to set a positive example."
"Impressive," Mark nodded. "I hope we get to compete again someday."
With that, he left without another glance at Megan.
Megan tried to slip away, but Joseph spotted her. "Return the money within three days, or I'll notify the police. And move out of Seaside Haven immediately. I'll be there to collect the house before dark."
"Joseph, don't push it," Megan glared at him.
"Seaside Haven was never yours. You should leave," Joseph said, then walked over to Cassie.
The trial made him feel even guiltier towards her.
Cassie stood up slowly, but before she could speak, Joseph pulled her into a tight hug.
"Cassie, I'm sorry," Joseph said, "I was so stupid before. I get it now. You were right not to forgive me."
"Should I take back my forgiveness then?" Cassie raised an eyebrow.
Joseph panicked. "I was just talking nonsense."
Cassie smiled. "Let's not dwell on the past. It only brings unhappiness."
"Exactly," Laura chimed in, "Any woman would be furious if her husband gave their home to a mistress. Do you know Seaside Haven was where Cassie moved in with you when you were sick? That's where you two fell in love."
Joseph felt utterly ashamed. "I didn't know. I don't remember."
"Enough, Laura. It's pointless to talk about this now," Cassie said.
Laura huffed. "You are quite the general."
Cassie replied, "If I didn't, I would have had a stroke by now."
"Cassie, don't worry. Once we get the house back, I'll have it burned down. We'll build a new one," Joseph said. "We'll start fresh."
"No, I don't even want to see that place anymore. Sell it," Cassie said, changing the subject. "You handled this case pretty well."
"That's because you were there. That's why I did well," Joseph said, then noticed Michael walking towards the door in a daze.
He caught up and patted Michael on the shoulder. "You're discharged?"
"Yes," Michael said, still confused and with red eyes. "Joseph, is what Nathan said true?"
Laura's sarcastic voice cut in. "Seems Michael still can't face reality. Cassie, isn't he silly?"
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