(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
(Judy)The news of Ashlyn’s commitment to a high-security mental health facility had come as no surprise to me. After all, I was the one who had put the wheels in motion, ensuring that Ashlyn would be deemed unfit for trial.Knowing that her chaotic presence is now contained, though not entirely neutralized, is great because I still need her long-term.My thoughts drift back to the day Ashlyn shot Jayden. It was supposed to be Winona in the crosshairs, not my son. I didn’t know he would jump in front of her. I didn’t want to risk his life, just eliminate the thorn in my side, Winona.I grip my teacup tightly, pushing the guilt away. Jayden survived, again, and that’s what matters. Now, I need to play my part to perfection no matter how long it takes. Winning Winona’s trust is crucial if I’m going to get what I want—Jayden and Abby all to myself.I’ve invited Winona and Abby over today. My staff answers the door and Winona greets me with a guarded expression when she enters my sitting
(Judy)I’ve managed to smuggle an untraceable phone into Ashlyn’s facility, ensuring we can stay in touch. I mean, the poor girl; she needs someone who cares. Her mother has written her off completely now.It’s only right that I should visit. There’s no trouble bribing half the staff to turn a blind eye to Ashlyn using a phone in her bathroom. She contacts me when she can. Later this will come in handy.For now, I’m just pretending I care about Ashlyn. A few minutes later, my phone buzzes.A: I’ll do anything for JaydenJ: I know you truly love himA: I’m sorry I hurt himJ: He’s okay nowA: But he’s with herJ: Time will fix it all. Trust meThe irony isn’t lost on me. Ashlyn’s obsession with my son is both her greatest strength and her ultimate weakness. As long as she believes she’s doing this for him, she’ll follow my lead. I delete each text right away, ensuring there’s no trace of our communication.I pour myself a glass of wine and sink into my favorite armchair. The plan is w
(Winona)We're moving into the Brennan Wing family unit at the hospital today. It feels surreal to be back here, preparing for Abby's next heart operation. I remember the first time and all the fear I had over almost losing Abby to this unknown genetic fault.The air is heavy with anticipation, and despite our efforts to stay positive, there's an undercurrent of anxiety that we can’t shake off. But I know Abby is in the best hands and despite a bumpy road, she has a supportive family around her.Anne is visiting when she gets through the surgery. Bobby and Sarah aren’t coming. I felt it was a little too soon for us all. But I do hope to be able to help them rehabilitate from their ordeal and be a positive influence on their future.Abby is unusually quiet today, clinging to her favorite stuffed animal, Puppy. “Mommy, is the doctor going to make my heart all better?” she asks, her big eyes filled with innocent hope.She’s almost four and a half now and a far cry from being a toddler n
(Winona)Abby sleeps peacefully, her chest rising and falling in a steady rhythm. She’s been a trooper through the surgery, and Dr. Green has just given us the best news we could hope for—she’s come through with flying colors.“We’ll need to keep her under observation for a couple of weeks,” Dr. Green explains, his face alight with a rare smile. “But if her recovery continues this way, we won’t need to consider another operation for at least 12 months. Just monthly check-ups.”Relief spreads through me, and tears of joy prick at my eyes. “Thank you, Dr. Green. That’s just the news we needed to hear.”He nods, his expression softening. “She’s a strong little girl. Just make sure she takes it easy and follows all the post-op care instructions.”“We will,” Jayden assures him, his hand squeezing mine. “We’ll do everything by the book.”As Dr. Green leaves, I look at Jayden, my heart swelling with gratitude and love. “For the first time since her first operation I think she’s going to be o