Chapter 18 - OPAL WON WITHOUT A TRIAL
There was no dramatic courtroom verdict.
North Meridian settled before trial.
No payment from Audrey.
No payment from Opal.
Holloway House contributed only to resolving narrow corporate claims unrelated to Audrey’s preexisting family materials.
Most importantly:
North Meridian disclaimed ownership of the Opal Finch legacy recipes and agreed not to challenge Audrey’s documented pre-company materials.
Holloway Legacy Concepts was dissolved afterward.
Finally.
Actually.
With paperwork.
Naomi sent Audrey the certificate.
Audrey printed it.
Micah suggested framing it beside the brooch.
She declined.
“Ugly.”
“Historic.”
“Still ugly.”
---
Brett’s indemnification covered part of Audrey’s legal costs.
It hurt him financially.
Not destroyed.
Consequences.
He sold a vacation property.
Reduced his investment portfolio.
Micah asked Audrey if that made her happy.
“No.”
“Why not?”
“Because your father losing money isn’t my goal.”
“What is?”
Audrey looked toward Opal’s kitchen.
“Knowing what belongs to me.”
Micah nodded.
May you like
That answer seemed to satisfy him.
---
