Daniel Wright, a retired pastor who had officiated Julian’s previous wedding, contacted them after recognizing Isabella’s name in a public document. He said he believed Isabella deserved to know the truth. Through him, Isabella met Margaret Hale, Julian’s ex-wife.
Margaret arrived with a thick folder.
Inside were photographs, emails, and notarized affidavits proving that Julian had attempted the same deception years earlier. He had forged documents to invalidate his marriage when Margaret threatened to expose his financial misconduct. She had escaped with a settlement, but the pattern persisted.
Margaret also recognized the marriage certificate Julian presented against Isabella.
“It’s fake,” she said immediately. “The notary stamp is a copy of mine.”
Rachel’s office went into overdrive.
Subpoenas were issued. Forensic experts were hired. Natalie Cross, once protected, was approached discreetly. When presented with evidence that Julian had used her as a legal instrument, Natalie agreed to cooperate in exchange for immunity.
The custody hearing became a turning point.
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