A billionaire cast aside his black wife and welcomed his new spouse into their shared home. The shocking actions of the forsaken wife left everyone stunned

He turned as she entered, and Zora was struck by how different he appeared. The designer suits were gone replaced by more casual attire. His hair was longer, his face more relaxed despite the obvious tension of this meeting.

Zora, he said by way of greeting. Thank you for seeing me. What’s this about Robert? Zora asked remaining near the door, maintaining professional distance.

Robert gestured to the chairs near her desk. May we sit? This might take a few minutes. Zora nodded, moving to take her seat behind the desk while Robert sat across from her.

The symbolism wasn’t lost on either of them. Once she would have taken the visitor’s chair in his office. I saw the presentation, Robert began.

The company’s doing well under your leadership. Better than it did under mine if I’m being honest. Thank you, Zora said still wary.

But I doubt you came all the way from California to compliment our management style. Robert smiled briefly, a flash of the charm that had once captivated her. No I didn’t.

He took a deep breath. I came to warn you. There’s a problem with Techfusion, one that could come back to haunt Empire Tech.

Zora’s caution sharpened to alertness. What kind of problem? Their core technology, the neural network algorithm that made them so valuable? It wasn’t entirely their own work. Robert leaned forward.

They built it using code stolen from a smaller company, a startup called Neuropath. Zora frowned. How do you know this? Because I’m working with Neuropath now, Robert explained.

I’m on their advisory board. They’re preparing to file a major patent infringement lawsuit against Empire Tech as the current owner of Techfusion’s assets. The implications were enormous.

If true, Empire Tech could face significant financial and reputational damage. The acquisition that had helped cement Zora and Victoria’s leadership could become a liability. Why are you telling me this? Zora asked, studying Robert’s face for signs of deception.

Why not let the lawsuit proceed if you’re advising the other side? Robert met her gaze directly. Because despite everything that happened between us, I don’t want to see you hurt. You’ve built something remarkable here.

This lawsuit could undo much of that. Zora wasn’t fully convinced. That’s surprisingly considerate.

I’ve had a lot of time to reflect, Robert said quietly. On the company. On us.

On the kind of person I was becoming. He shook his head. I didn’t like what I saw.

So this is what redemption? Zora asked not unkindly. Maybe, Robert admitted. Or maybe it’s just trying to do the right thing for once.

Zora considered his words, her analytical mind already processing the implications weighing options. What exactly does Neuropath want? Acknowledgement of their intellectual property rights. Licensing fees for continued use.

And a partnership going forward. Robert handed her a thumb drive. All the details are here, the evidence of code theft, the documentation of Neuropath’s prior work, proposed settlement terms.

Zora took the drive but didn’t plug it in. I’ll need our legal team to review this. Of course, Robert agreed.

Take whatever time you need. But Neuropath’s investors are pushing for action. You have maybe two weeks before the lawsuit is filed.

Zora nodded, her mind already racing with next steps. Thank you for the warning. I appreciate it.

Robert stood, apparently recognizing the meeting was concluding. For what it’s worth Zora, I’m sorry. For everything.

Not just the divorce but how I treated you during our marriage. You deserved better. The apology caught her off guard.

Not because it was unexpected but because she realized she no longer needed it. The wound had healed, leaving only wisdom in its place. We both deserved better, she said simply.

I hope you’re finding that now. Robert smiled, a genuine smile this time without the charm offensive. I’m trying.

The work with startups, mentoring young founders, it’s fulfilling in a way that chasing billions never was. As they walked to the door Robert paused. There’s a man waiting for you in the lobby.

Tall, distinguished looking. He watching me like he wanted to make sure I didn’t upset you. James, Zora confirmed.

We’ve been seeing each other for about a year now. Robert nodded. He looks at you the way I should have.

Like you’re his equal, not his accessory. The observation was surprisingly insightful, a sign perhaps that Robert had indeed done some reflection. He is a good man, Zora acknowledged.

You deserve that, Robert said sincerely. Goodbye Zora. I truly wish you well.

After Robert left, Zora remained in her office, turning the thumb drive over in her hands, processing the information and the interaction. There had been a time when seeing Robert would have triggered pain or anger or regret. Now she felt only a calm acknowledgement of their shared past and separate futures.

She called Victoria who was still at the reception. We need to talk. Something’s come up with Techfusion.

Can you meet me in my office? While waiting for Victoria, Zora texted James, almost done. Robert brought some business information we need to address. We’ll explain everything later.

His reply came quickly, take your time. I’ll be here when you’re ready. Victoria arrived minutes later, concern evident on her face.

What’s going on? Diana said Robert was here? Zora explained the situation showing Victoria the thumb drive. If what he’s saying is true, we could have a serious problem on our hands. Victoria’s expression grew increasingly troubled as she absorbed the implications…