(Winona)I'm still sitting beside Jayden, my heart finally starting to believe he’s going to pull through. Dr. Green stands at the foot of the bed, his expression one of cautious optimism.“Jayden’s showing good signs of recovery, but he still needs to rest and not overdo it,” Dr. Green advises, his tone serious but hopeful.I nod, gripping Jayden’s hand gently, feeling the warmth of his skin against mine. It’s a small reassurance that he’s still here with me. “I understand, Doctor. We’ll make sure he takes it easy.”Dr. Green glances at his chart before looking back at us. “If you want visitors, we can arrange that, but let’s keep it to a minimum for now. You’ll be moved from intensive care in a couple of days if everything continues to go well.”Jayden frowns at the mention of visitors. “I don’t want any visitors right now except Winona and Abby.”I’m surprised by his response, and I can see that Dr. Green notices too. “Alright, Jayden. It’s your choice. We’ll make sure you have the
(Jayden)The next day, Winona brings Abby back to the hospital to see me. I can't describe the feeling of actually seeing my little girl again, not just hearing her. The pure joy in her eyes as she runs over to me.“Daddy!” Abby’s voice is filled with excitement as she hops onto the bed, careful not to disturb any of the tubes or monitors. “You’re awake!”“Hey there, princess,” I say, my voice hoarse but full of love. “I missed seeing you so much.”Winona stands nearby, her eyes soft as she watches us. “She’s been so excited to talk to you.”I manage a weak smile. “Me too. It’s so good.”Abby cuddles up next to me, her small hand gripping mine.As Abby chatters away about her latest adventures, I find myself feeling grateful. This is what I’m fighting for—a future with my family.Abby talks about her drawings and the fun she’s having with Nanny Anne and Grandma Judy. “Mommy and I made cookies yesterday. I saved some for you, Daddy. But then I ate them because I thought you wouldn’t ge
(Winona)The past week has been a whirlwind of emotions. Jayden’s recovery is progressing well, and he’s now able to sit up and has taken a few steps on his own. He’s been allowed to go home to continue his recovery.This should be a time of joy and relief, but I feel a knot of anxiety in my stomach.I glance at the invitation in my hand, my heart sinking. “Engagement Party for Jayden and Winona!” it reads in bold letters. My stomach churns. Anne gave it to me. I knew nothing about this party.I find Jayden in the living room, talking animatedly with Lance. He looks up, smiling when he sees me, but his smile fades when he notices the look on my face.“Winona, what’s wrong?” he asks, his eyebrow raised.I hold up the invitation, my hand trembling. “What’s this, Jayden? An engagement party? You didn’t even ask me!”Lance awkwardly excuses himself, sensing the tension. Jayden’s expression shifts from concern to frustration. “I thought it would be a nice surprise. I wanted to celebrate us
(Winona)It’s been a few days since the engagement party fiasco, and while things have calmed down between Jayden and me, there’s still a lingering tension. Today, I’m heading over to my townhouse to pick up some things. I’ve been staying at the penthouse while Jayden needs extra care. He is meeting me here later to help load Anne’s boxes into the trailer.Abby is with Anne, and I’m hoping to have a quiet moment to myself. Anne is almost packed up and she’s saying goodbye to Abby over lunch and explaining that she will be back.It’s going to be strange without Anne here, but I’ll manage. Actually, being able to cope with school, Abby’s needs and my career is something I’m looking forward to. To prove I can do it. I’ll miss Anne to bits but I’m glad she’s taking in Bobby and Sarah. I hope to rebuild my relationship with those two kids as well.My deadbeat father has a lot to answer for. I hope he stays out of my life now and out of any kids' lives.As I walk through my front door, I
(Winona)I’m actually not sure Jayden and I can live together long term. We are very different in fundamental things. Like, I cook and clean for myself, and he has a whole array of staff for everyday things.He never got why I wanted my career because he had more money than we could ever need.As I move around my living room, I think back on my time working and being friends— well I guess more than friends— with Phillip. It was always so easy with him in understanding me and my needs.He communicated even when we weren’t even in a proper, committed relationship. He got what being friends or a couple is about. That level of respect for someone else’s opinion without it ever having to be said.If I could have that with Jayden, things would be near perfect. But Perfection is not something to strive for. It’s a thing we believe exists, but I’m not sure it does.I look at Jayden unpacking a box he’s packed and notice his expression shift. He looks like he’s about to say something but hesi
(Winona)Jayden’s recovery has been steady, and we are very thankful. While it hasn’t been all smooth sailing trying to navigate each other and our different outlook on life, there have also been wonderful times for us as a family.It’s the weekend again already, and we're sitting in my kitchen, discussing what comes next. Abby is drawing at the table, completely engrossed in her latest masterpiece, her little tongue poking out in concentration.Jayden takes a deep breath, his fingers tapping lightly on his coffee cup. “I’ve been thinking,” he says, taking a sip of his coffee. “Now that I’m recovered, I want us to start planning our future. Together.”“I think your recovery is still in progress. Don’t push too hard,” I say, eyeing him with concern. His face shows the strain of the last few weeks, though he tries to hide it.“I’m not walking around on eggshells being incapacitated. I need to get back to building Brennan Industries,” he replies, his tone resolute as he straightens up in
(Winona)Gordon Brown arrives at the house the next day with Jayden. “I asked Jayden to meet me here. It’s information about Ashlyn that concerns you both.” I offer him coffee, and we sit in the living room. His expression is serious, and I brace myself for the news he’s about to deliver.“Winona, the update on Ashlyn,” Gordon begins, taking a sip of his coffee. “She won’t be tried for attempted murder.”My heart sinks. “What do you mean? After everything she did?”Gordon nods, his face is grave. “She’s been deemed mentally incompetent. She’ll be going into a facility for offenders who need psychiatric help.”I take a deep breath, trying to process this information. I kind of get it. I mean, Ashlyn does need serious help. “So, she’s just... getting away with it really. But I know she really isn’t mentally competent. I wonder if she ever has been really.”“Not exactly getting away with it,” Gordon says, leaning forward. “She’ll be in a secure facility, getting the help she needs for
(Winona)The next day, Judy is visiting to spend some time with Abby after picking her up from preschool for me. I’m in the kitchen preparing some snacks while Judy and Abby are in the living room chatting.Judy’s laughter and Abby’s giggles fill the air, creating a seemingly perfect picture of family harmony.As I bring out a tray of snacks, Judy looks up and smiles. “Thank you, Winona. Abby, look at these delicious treats your mom made for us.”Abby grins. “Thanks, Mommy! Yum!”“You’re welcome, Sweety,” I say, admiring her work. “Go wash up before you eat.”Abby runs to the bathroom.Judy takes a seat next to me, her expression turning more serious. “Winona, can we talk for a moment?”I nod. “Of course, Judy. What’s on your mind?”She lowers her voice. “I’ve been worried about Jayden. Have you noticed how volatile he’s been lately?”“Look, with all due respect, Judy. You did almost have him killed while you were trying to kill me. I think he deserves to be volatile, and more.”“Poin
(Winona)The gel is cold, but I don’t care. I need this done. Dr. Harris adjusts the probe on my stomach, her face neutral as she stares at the monitor. Jayden sits beside me, his hand gripping mine. Lisa is standing at the end of the bed, arms crossed, her eyes flicking between me and the screen. Cass perches on the bedside out of the way. I’m grateful for their support.“Let’s see,” Dr. Harris says. Her tone is calm, but it doesn’t ease the storm raging inside me. My breath comes in shallow bursts, and I glance at Jayden. He hasn’t let go of my hand since they rolled the machine in. He looks focused, his eyes glued to the screen. Lisa breaks the silence first. “Should it take this long?” Her voice is sharp, her worry evident. Dr. Harris keeps her tone steady. “Sometimes the baby’s position makes it harder to pick up a signal. Let’s not assume anything yet.” “Easier said than done,” Cass says.I can’t help but agree. My mouth is dry. “Doctor, should I be worried?” Dr. Harris m
(Winona)The first thing I feel is exhaustion—a bone-deep, crushing weight that makes it nearly impossible to move. My body aches everywhere, like I’ve been run over by a truck.My head pounds, and my throat feels dry, but I force my eyes open, blinking against the soft light.“Mommy?” A small voice breaks through the fog, hesitant but hopeful.I blink again, and there she is. Abby, her little face framed by messy pigtails, her big blue eyes filled with worry. “Abby,” I rasp, my voice barely audible.Her face lights up, and she leans in close, clutching the edge of the bed. “You’re awake!” she exclaims, her voice trembling with relief. “I missed you so much, Mommy!”I try to lift my hand, but it feels like lead. Instead, I manage a weak smile. “I missed you too, sweetie,” I whisper.“Alright, sweetheart, let’s give Mommy a little space,” Anne’s calm voice comes from somewhere nearby. “Glad you’re back with us, Winona.”Abby shakes her head fiercely. “No! I want to stay with Mommy!”“I
(Jayden)I drop Viktor off at the penthouse, handing him the spare key fob. “Cat’s in charge while you’re here. Don’t let him boss you around too much,” I say with a smirk.Viktor raises an eyebrow. “I’m sure I’ll manage. Can’t be more troublesome than your sister-in-law.”I let out a low laugh. “Truth.”“I’ll get back here as soon as I can. I have some forward trajectory I need to discuss with you on Nexus Global. Help yourself to anything.”“I’ll be here. If anything happens with Winona, please let me know.”“I will. Right… now it’s time to go and finally put Brennan Industries behind me.”***By the time I pull up outside Gabriel’s hotel, I’m ready to let go and walk away.I knock on the door and it opens. Gabriel is there looking as tall and suave as ever. I step into the suite, and he greets me with a firm handshake. “Jayden,” he says, his tone even. “Thanks for coming.”“No problem,” I reply, keeping things brisk. “Let’s get this done.”Gabriel gestures to the small conference t
(Cass)When Viktor and I step into the Brennan Wing family suite, the first thing I notice is how together Jayden looks.He’s standing by Henry’s highchair, feeding him bits of banana while the little guy alternates between smearing food on his face and laughing like he’s cracked the greatest joke in the world.Jayden doesn’t even flinch when Henry chucks half a cracker at his chest.“Alright, Superdad,” I say, dropping my bag on the couch. “You’re really leaning into this whole family-man thing. Should I be worried you’re going to start wearing matching dad-and-son tracksuits next?”Jayden smirks without looking up. “You jealous, Aunt Cass? I can always order you one too. I’m thinking neon green?”I grin, then I run to hug him. “Pass. I prefer my black on black for now.”Henry spots me and lets out an excited squeal, waving his sticky hands in my direction. “Oh, no you don’t,” I warn, taking a step back. “Your dad can keep the food fights. I’ll hug you as soon as we use some wipes.”
(Jayden)“Gabriel.” I say as Henry tries to grab my cell out of my hand.I manage to dodge his lightning-fast hand, holding the phone just out of his reach. He laughs, thinking it’s a game.His little giggles make me grin.“Jayden. I wanted to let you know I’m flying in to finalize the shares. Everything looks good on my end. I land at six.”“Great. Let me know your hotel room; I’ll come see you there.”“Sorry to hear about Lance and Judy. I’ve read over everything you sent. Are you sure?”“Yes,” I reply coolly. “You’ll be in charge now unless you make other arrangements with your family. I'm out.”There’s a pause on the other end, but I don’t care to fill it. Gabriel’s voice is measured when he continues, “How’s Winona? I heard she had a fall.”“She’s in recovery. We’ll know more tomorrow.”“I heard Cass was in Europe. Is she coming back to see her?”“She is. And I don’t want any trouble for her, Gabriel. She’s been through enough. I’m still pissed that Mia provided her with drugs an
(Jayden)I stand at the door the next morning as Anne steps in with the kids, managing the chaos with her usual calm authority. Abby clings to her arm, eyes darting nervously around the suite. “You remember this place, don’t you, sweetheart?” Anne asks gently. Abby nods but doesn’t let go. “It’s where the doctors made my heart better,” she whispers, glancing at me for reassurance. “It is,” I say, crouching to her level. “But this time, we’re here for Mom. She’s going to need all of us to help her get better. You up for the job?” Abby hesitates, then nods firmly. “Yes!” Then she opens her eyes wide. “Am I supposed to be really quiet?”“No darling. You can just be yourself. But we’ll try for no arguing and shouting with your brothers and sister, okay?”“Okay. Can I go see Mom now?”“Mom is having special medicine to keep her asleep for now, but I think she can still hear us. Go tell her about your day and we’ll join you soon. Keep her company for me. You know how she loves all your
(Jayden)The door opens, and Lisa steps in, carrying a fresh change of clothes and some toiletries I had her swing by the penthouse and grab.“Jayden,” she says quietly, setting the bag down near the chair. “You look like shit.”I don’t even glance at her. “Thanks for the compliment.”She pulls up a chair beside me. “I mean it. You’re running on fumes. Go shower, get something to eat, and grab a couple of hours of sleep. I’ll stay with Winona. You need to be human when the kids get here tomorrow morning.”“I’m fine,” I lie, tightening my grip on Winona’s hand. “I don’t want to leave her.” I mean I can actually smell myself at this point.“Jayden.” Lisa’s voice takes on that tone she uses when she’s not going to back down. “I’m serious. You’re no good to anyone in this state. Winona will kick your ass if she sees you like this—smelling like death warmed over and looking worse.”She’s so right. I really need to get my shit together and show Winona I can lead our family when needed. Not
(Cass) I pace the estate office, Viktor’s phone pressed tightly to my ear. Viktor leans against the desk, his arms crossed, the picture of calm professionalism. Good. I want to ignore the way he held me earlier, like I actually mattered to him.He’s trained to say the right things to defuse situations. That’s all it was.Jayden picks up, his voice tense but steady. “Cass. She’s okay. I mean, she’s in an induced coma for a few days but she’s okay.” “Thank God!” I say, my voice cracking. I can’t stop the tremble in my hands. “Are you with her still?” “Yes,” he says, and I let out a shaky breath. “The head wound is under control, the coma is to wait for the swelling and her blood pressure to go down. But she is going to get through this.”“What about the baby?” “No,” he cuts me off sharply. “Just positive talk. She’s strong. They both are.” His voice softens, and I realize how much he’s struggling to hold it together. It’s so unlike him to sound vulnerable. “I’m coming home…”“Wai
(Jayden)Winona lies motionless in the Brennan Wing’s family suite medical bedroom, surrounded by machines that hum and beep softly in the background. This room was designed to keep families together during the most terrifying moments of their lives.This wing is my initiative, but I never thought I’d need it personally so much. I’m bending the guidelines a little having Winona here now but I know her best chance is having the ones she loves the most around her.Right now, I’d give anything for a sign—any sign—that she’ll wake up. I don’t have that yet but what I am going to do is create a positive environment around Winona. I called Barnaby and he reminded me of many coping mechanisms I’d learned from his sessions.I’m going to only speak of the future and what’s happening now. I’m not mentioning the past. Winona deserves to hear and believe the wonderful future ahead of us. No matter what has happened or what may happen.Dr. Harris and Dr. Reeves stand at the foot of the bed, revie