Chapter 9: The Trial in Henrico
In early autumn, the formal dissolution of Julian’s marriage and the settlement of his remaining commercial liabilities were concluded in the Henrico County Circuit Court.
Alyssa appeared via remote video conference from Arizona, represented by her family’s corporate attorneys.
Julian stood at the petitioner’s table in person, wearing a simple clean dark wool suit he had purchased with his own wages from the clinic cooperative.
The judge reviewed the uncontested settlement agreement:
*1. Complete dissolution of the marriage with no spousal maintenance obligations for either party.*
*2. Full distribution of all personal debts to their respective individual accounts.*
*3. Surrender of all remaining commercial equity claims against the Miller family estate.*
Judge Thornton struck his wooden gavel against the sound block with a sharp, resonant *crack*.
""The marriage is dissolved,"" the judge declared. ""Mr. Miller, your wage garnishment plan for the outstanding credit liabilities has been approved by the trustee. You are free to go.""
Julian walked out of the courthouse onto the sunny autumn street.
He felt no bitterness toward Alyssa, no burning desire for vengeance. The past had been completely dismantled, leaving behind only the clean, unburdened earth of his new life.
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He walked to the bus station, purchased a round-trip ticket to Appomattox with seven dollars from his wallet, and pointed his face toward the mountains.
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