After the demand letter went out, Ethan finally stayed quiet for a few days.
The next time I saw him was in a mediation room.
He had lost weight. His suit was wrinkled, and his hair was a mess. He used to say a founder had to look sharp and successful.
Now the polish was gone. He looked as though life had wrung him dry.
My lawyer laid out the proposed settlement amount. It covered my out-of-pocket expenses, interest, IP infringement damages, and reputational damages.
When Ethan finished reading it, his hands were shaking. "This much?"
My lawyer said, "This is already the amount Miss Parker is willing to settle for in mediation."
Ethan looked at me. "Nat, I really can't pay this."
"You can pay in installments."
His eyes lit up.
"On one condition," I added. "You sign a notarized, e
