The Verdict on My Husband the Judge: GUILTY novel Chapter 16

Chapter 8

The studio was preparing for a design competition, and I threw myself into another round of intense work.

I worked day and night, and even after coming home for dinner, I’d sit on the couch and keep sketching.

When I felt my laptop being lifted away, I woke up groggily.

“Did I wake you?”

Julian pulled me into his arms, his large hand rubbing my back.

“No.”

I wrapped my arms around him and nuzzled into his neck.

“What time is it? I’m so tired.”

“It’s past eleven. Let’s get you to bed.”

He stroked my hair affectionately and scooped me up in his arms.

“Brynn, aren’t you pushing yourself too hard? Why don’t you take tomorrow off?”

“No, no.”

My brain cleared a little, and I refused firmly.

“The competition’s in a week. We still have so much to adjust. I’m the team leader–I can’t be the first one to collapse.”

“Okay. Whatever you say.”

Julian smiled. I curled up in his arms and fell into a deep sleep.

After that day, Julian brought dinner to the studio every night. Sometimes he’d bring dessert or flowers, easing my exhaustion.

He hugged me from behind and promised:

“Once the competition’s over, I’ll take you to the Bahamas to relax.”

Good news was our design made it through every round and won first place.

I was invited onstage to accept the award and give a speech. The girls from my studio brought me flowers.

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The Verdict on My Husband the Judge: GUILTY

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Chapter 8

Looking out at the glittering lights and crowd below, I gripped the microphone and steadied myself.

“Thank you to the organizers for giving us such an incredible platform–one that let every member of my team.

chase their dreams.”

“I’m a little embarrassed to admit this, but even though I’m a few years older than them, I never had a dream of my own. It was their energy and drive that made me want to do something for myself for the first time.”

“This win isn’t just mine. It’s our whole team’s effort. And I owe so much to my husband, who’s been quietly supporting me the whole time.”

I winked at Julian in the audience and smiled sweetly.

As I was about to step down, I caught sight of Wes sitting in the corner.

He looked even thinner. His tailored suit was sharp, but on his wrist was a worn, scratched watch.

I recognized it. I’d given it to him.

I froze for a second, then looked away and kept walking.

After the ceremony, my assistant Yara found me.

“Brynn, a man just asked me to give this to you.”

I took the postcard and opened it.

[If we meet again, I won’t let go of your hand.]

[I wish you all the best, Brynn. You’re already shining.]

I calmly tossed the postcard into the trash and turned to throw myself into Julian’s arms.

He spun me around a few times and kissed my forehead.

“Congratulations, Brynn.”

“Thank you, honey! Tonight we’re celebrating with a huge dinner! Okay?”

“Let’s just celebrate in the Bahamas. I’ve already booked everything!”

He looked at me with a doting smile.

“Really?”

I kissed his cheek over and over, lacing my fingers with his as we left the venue.

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The Verdict on My Husband the Judge: GUILTY

12.8%

Chapter 8

I’d cleared away all the sadness and pain of the past.

With passion as my sail, I was heading toward a brand–new horizon.

And I knew–I wouldn’t be alone on this journey.

Someone would always be by my side.

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The Verdict on My Husband the Judge: GUILTY