The Ex-Wife’s Billion Dollar Comeback Novel

---- Chapter 152: The Civil Union ~ Soraya ~ (Authorities confirmed late Wednesday evening that members of the Rowan family are in custody as investigations widen into multiple allegations. While details remain limited, initial reports point to possible financial irregularities tied to the embezzlement case of the Rowan patriarch, Marvin Rowan.] [Sources suggest the probe extends beyond financial misconduct, touching on alleged schemes and internal disputes that raised concerns over the family's conduct in both private and corporate affairs.

Officials have declined to provide specifics, citing the sensitivity of the investigation.] Camilla Rowan is said to be cooperating with authorities. Early indications point to ongoing negotiations that could determine the extent of her involvement.] [The Montclair Group released a statement assuring that the ongoing legal matter will not disrupt the company's operations. Employees implicated in the embezzlement case have already been dismissed and replaced.

However, sources note that the Rowans' troubles have strained their long- standing ties with the Montclairs, leaving the relationship deeply fractured.] Soraya read the article online first thing in the morning. With the official statement already out, she once again tried to connect with Amanda and Cedric. After two rings, Amanda finally answered. "Mom, how are you?" Soraya asked. "Oh, Soraya, | did not have the heart to talk to you. Calum promised me he'd make it right with you. Did he?" Amanda ---- asked.

"I told him to give you custody of Sage." Soraya told Amanda that Sage decided to stay with Rose and Calum. The latter cried, promising, "I'll talk to Sage-" "Mom, no. | won't force things. Besides, Jacob and | have concerns with Angela," Soraya said. She could trust Amanda. She always had. So, she shared their current predicament. " Right now, Angela is our priority. To be honest, | have been working from home most of the time lately. And it's the reason why Jacob and | are getting married-at the courthouse for now.

We need to prove to the court that she has a better family with us." Amanda was stunned by the revelation. She couldn't believe Angela was adopted! "I never saw that coming. Jacob and Veronica doted on Angela so much." "It surprised me too, Mom. Jacob never hesitated when it came to Angela," Soraya admitted. "But his treatment of her, and that of Veronica's, made me realize that bonds didn't have to come from your own flesh and blood." "| mean-" Soraya felt teary-eyed. She was in the master bedroom when she made the call. She walked toward the balcony and looked out at the view.

"My own parents gave me up so easily, but Uncle Philip and Aunt Emily stepped in. They became the family | needed... the family | still cherish. Honestly, even you and Dad, you've been more of a home to me than the people who gave me life." "Then, there's Sage." A lump formed in her throat before she concluded, "I guess sometimes, the love of those who choose you is stronger than the love of those who should have stayed." Silence stretched between Amanda and Soraya. But a heartbeat later, Amanda said, "I understand. Don't blame Sage. ---- She is young.

One day, she will realize how much she will miss you. I'll find a way to detach her from Rose. One day, | promise, Sage will come back to you." Soraya could tell Amanda was in tears. But very quickly, Amanda asked, "So, when is the civil wedding? We have to be there." A smile formed on Soraya's lips. "It's this afternoon, Mom." Hours later, the civil wedding happened. Their only guests were Amanda, Cedric, Philip, Emily, Silas, Lyra, Veronica's best friend Nora, and four of Jacob's employees at SteelCore Industries. Harold was also present to support the union, as well as the bodyguards.

The city hall's ceremonial chamber was quiet, solemn yet elegant. The walls, lined with polished wood and adorned with fresh white lilies, carried a fragrance that calmed Soraya's nerves. In a simple white dress, Soraya stood beside Jacob, her hand resting lightly on his arm. They had chosen a civil wedding first, a practical decision to protect Angela and strengthen their case in court, but still, her heart raced knowing the kind of commitment she was about to make. The officiant, a judge in a crisp black robe, smiled at them from behind a wooden desk. "Good afternoon," he said kindly.

"We are gathered here today for the lawful union of Jacob Steel and Soraya Azar. This ceremony may be simple, but it carries with it the full weight of the law and the promise of a life shared." Soraya glanced at Jacob. He looked striking in his suit, every line of it sharpened by the quiet confidence he carried. His ---- eyes were steady on her, unwavering, filled with the determination of a man who knew exactly what he wanted, as if silently assuring her that they were making the right choice. For a moment, the lawyers and the shadows of Damien Cross and Sienna Ashford faded away.

Here, it was only the two of them. The judge continued, "Under our Family Code, marriage is not merely a contract but a partnership. It is built on trust, respect, and mutual obligation. Today, you will affirm your intent to enter into this union, bound not only by law but by love and loyalty." "Now then," the judge said, adjusting his glasses. "Jacob Steel, do you take Soraya Azar to be your lawful wife, to live together in matrimony, to love her, to honor her, to keep her in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad, for as long as you both shall live?" Jacob didn't hesitate.

"I do." The judge turned to her. "Soraya Azar, do you take Jacob Steel to be your lawful husband, to live together in matrimony, to love him, to honor him, to keep him in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad, for as long as you both shall live?" Soraya smiled at Jacob, saying, "! do." The judge nodded. "By the authority vested in me, | now Pronounce you husband and wife." Applause broke softly among the small gathering. But Soraya heard nothing but the rush of her own heartbeat as Jacob leaned in and kissed her, sealing not just a marriage contract, but a promise.

At that moment, despite all the battles still waiting ahead, Soraya felt as though she had already gained something ---- precious. After a lifetime of being left behind by her parents, by her marriage, even by Sage, she was placing her hope in Jacob now. More than a shield for Angela, she prayed this marriage would finally guard her own heart too. Jacob took her hand and kissed it. There was gentleness in his eyes as he said, "Thank you, Ara, for being mine. | promise to take care of you for the rest of my life."