(Scarlett's POV)

The name on the partner directory seemed to blur before my eyes. Julian Pierce. A memory surfaced slowly-a serious, quietly imposing young man I had seen a handful of times during my prep school years, on the occasions when he visited Harrison on campus.

I hadn't realized until now that this prestigious firm had been co-founded by Harrison and Julian.

Julian's resume was nothing short of perfect-as a Harvard Law doctorate, he maintained an undefeated record in the legal world, especially excelling at handling complex divorce cases involving massive asset divisions.

He was recognized as a top-tier lawyer in New York's high society.

Just then, my sister-in-law Miranda Cole spotted me.

Miranda was a straightforward, efficient socialite who enthusiastically led me into Harrison's corner office.

I didn't beat around the bush and directly stated my intention to divorce. Miranda's eyes widened in shock.

"Why the sudden divorce? Haven't you always been in love with Sebastian Sterling?"

A bitter smile tugged at my lips. I did love that man, but Sebastian only saw our marriage as a cold business merger.

Fighting back the intense pain in my heart, I told Miranda everything that had happened these past few days-including the illegitimate child and Sebastian's cold attitude.

Miranda was furious after hearing this. With typical American bluntness, she cursed Sebastian as a morally bankrupt bastard.

"He doesn't treasure a perfect wife like you, instead he's fooling around outside, even getting someone pregnant! I should drag Harrison to Sterling Group right now and cause a scene!"

In contrast, Harrison Miller's reaction was much more calm and rational, even appearing somewhat cold.

He had just taken over the Miller family business, and Sebastian held 10% of the company's crucial shares, wielding significant influence in the board of directors.

Harrison desperately needed his support to stabilize the situation. He looked at his sister with a complex expression.

"Have you really thought through the consequences of divorce?"

My attitude was firm. "He's already had an illegitimate child. I have no way to retreat."

Harrison said he would support me, but then changed his tone, advising me to calm down first, hire private investigators to gather evidence, and pointed out that Sebastian's business empire had expanded overseas.

Asset division would be a long and difficult nightmare. His implication was clear-he hoped I could postpone the divorce proceedings for a year or two for the family's benefit.

I caught the subtext in my brother's words. I didn't back down, instead asking directly, "If Julian Pierce took my case, would it still be this difficult?"

Harrison obviously hadn't expected his sister to directly name his partner. Miranda immediately clapped her hands in approval.

"This kind of tricky case should definitely go to Julian! He's known as the 'Wall Street Shark' in the industry, specializing in tearing apart unfaithful wealthy men in court and making them pay dearly."

Miranda immediately ran out to inquire about Julian's schedule. A few minutes later, she returned with a delighted expression.

"Even though Julian's appointments are booked until next year, he said he's willing to make time for you, Scarlett. He can see you right now."

I followed Miranda into another minimally decorated yet luxurious office, seeing the tall, slender figure by the window.

Julian wore an impeccably tailored custom suit with rimless glasses perched on his nose.

Through the lenses, his green eyes appeared deep and rational, his entire presence radiating the distinctive aloofness and elegance of the elite class.

Hearing movement, the man raised his eyes to look at me. His gaze sharpened slightly as he spoke in a low, magnetic voice.

"Please sit, Scarlett."

After I settled into the leather chair, Miranda thoughtfully closed the door and left, giving us privacy.

I formally introduced myself, explaining that I was Harrison's sister and hoped to hire him to represent this divorce case. Julian didn't immediately flip through documents. Instead, he stared at me for a moment.

"I remember you."

I was somewhat taken aback. I had no memory of ever having any dealings with him. He didn't elaborate, instead putting down his pen, crossing his hands on the desk, and looking directly into my eyes.

"What's the reason for the divorce?"

I took a deep breath. "Adultery."

Julian slightly adjusted his posture, his expression becoming more serious. Then he dropped a fact that shocked me.

"Actually, I was present at your wedding. You might not know this, but I'm Sebastian's cousin."

My mouth fell open slightly in surprise. I hadn't expected New York's high society circle to be so small. Julian didn't linger on this topic, continuing in his professional lawyer's tone.

"Do you have any children together?"

I shook my head. Over these three years, family elders and Sebastian's mother Sophia had urged us several times.

I had always thought Sebastian was too busy expanding his business empire to want children.

Only now did I sadly understand that perhaps he simply didn't want to have children with me.

Julian pushed his glasses up and continued probing for details. This time, his question hit at something deeply private.

"How's your marital life? No sexual relationship?"

A wave of intense embarrassment and shame washed over me, my cheeks burning. I asked if this had much relevance to the lawsuit.

Julian's tone remained flat as he explained, "In many states' laws, lack of intimate relations-constructive abandonment-can serve as strong evidence of marital breakdown, especially when seeking more favorable property division."

Though I felt mortified, I still gripped my skirt tightly, answering with red-rimmed eyes in a small voice, "Twice."

Julian obviously misunderstood my meaning. "Twice a week?"

My nails nearly dug into my palms. Shamefully, I corrected, "No, three years total. Twice altogether."

This answer caused a flash of obvious shock and bewilderment in Julian's usually impassive eyes. He seemed unable to imagine this could be called married life.

"Such low frequency." Julian paused. "Is it because of... incompatibility in that aspect?"