A second halt on Christie Brinkley's divorce trial from her estranged husband, Peter Cook, strengthened rumors about a potential case settlement.

Although all signs pointed towards a possible resolution, with the proceedings hectically being put on hold and resumed, the warring couple returned to the Central Islip, Long Island, courthouse three hours later.

Asked whether a deal was in the works, Brinkley, who was reportedly advised by pals to keep the trial going just enough to reveal Cook's infidelities before attempting to settle, said they've gone back to trial but she remained "hopeful." According to sources, Brinkley has always wanted to settle the case, it was Cook who continued to hold out for a big payday.

The headline-grabbing trial had resumed for barely an hour when the attorneys exchanged notes. They then huddled in chambers with Acting State Supreme Court Justice Mark D. Cohen. The judge returned to the bench to say the trial was adjourned for the day.

Settlement rumors come as Cook's lawyers prepare to present their own witnesses next week, possibly turning the tables in a drama being played out not just before a judge but also before the media. At this point, sources suggest any deal could help Cook's thinning wallet since he's reportedly spent nearly $1 million in legal fees since Brinkley filed for divorce in June 2006.

Brinkley, a former Sports Illustrated magazine cover girl, and Cook, an architect, were married for 10 years before she abruptly ended it after finding out about his affair with his teenage assistant. The couple has two children together, 13-year-old Jack whom Cook adopted and 10-year-old Sailor, for whose custody they are fighting.

So far, the trial has brought out a series of unpleasant details about Cook's improper appetite for pornography, history with drug dealing as well as his affair with Diana Bianchi, who was 18 at the time.