Page 104 of Merry Fake Bride

“It’s clear the cultural significance of your bakery is far more impactful than this court was originally led to believe, as is how long your family has resided within that building. I’m noting Silver Canopy asno contestin this matter.”

I glance hastily between the judge and Augustus.

“What does that mean?” I whisper.

“It means,” the judge continues, having apparently heard my whisper, “that with no defense from Silver Canopy in regard to the land deal several years ago or the importance of their current business, the land your bakery is situated on is yours. I’m also granting your family six months’ back-paid rent from the landlord to compensate for the landlord’s unjustified cost increases. Do you understand, Miss Miller?”

I stare at her with wide eyes, unsure if I’m hearing correctly.

“I think so?”

“Mr. Cardiff, perhaps you can explain it to your client. Case closed.”

The gavel clacks down so hard that I jump while facing Augustus who beams at me.

“You won. No contest. The land is yours. The building is yours. You won, Devon. Do you understand? You won!”

Outside, the city of New York has never smelled so crisp.

The air is cool, the aroma of coffee and hot dogs from a nearby cart warms my lungs, and a weight is gone from my shoulders.

We won.

I almost can’t believe it.

“Do you want a lift home?” Augustus stands next to me, smiling.

“No, a friend is taking me, but I appreciate it. Thank you, Augustus. For everything.”

Drawing him into a brief hug, I cuddle him tightly for a few seconds and then step away. “I can’t wait to tell my parents.”

“Will you call them?”

I nod. “I will. Thank you.”

“Take care, Devon.” He waves, and I watch him hurry down the steps with his papers and briefcase clutched just as tightly as they were before the trial.

I call Mom first.

She’s so over the moon that she can barely speak and Dad takes over the call to tell me how excited and proud of me he is.

Through the excitement, they manage to remind me that the hospital called and they can fit me in tomorrow to get my cast removed.

As much of a hindrance as this has been, I’ll almost miss it.

As the call ends, a black car pulls up in front of the courthouse and Martin steps out just as I dial Kairo’s number.

“Is it good news?” he asks as soon as the call connects.

“The best news.” The smile on my face is not shifting. “I feel like I’ve been unable to breathe for the past six months and that weight is finally gone.”

“I’m proud of you, Devon,” Kairo says and his words hit differently than my parents’. Warmth builds behind my eyes and I stop walking toward the car.

“I couldn’t have done this without you.”

“Technically, you wouldn’t have had to without me,” he jokes softly. “But I understand what you mean. I’m glad I could help.”

“No one turned up. The judge was confused.”