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186 Desperate Bargain
Last Updated:
2024-08-21 11:30:33
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Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 187 The Edge
(Jayden)We’re back in my car, outside the high security facility, but my mind is still trapped in that room with Ashlyn. Her words stick in my head. This is a bad dream I can’t shake off.Judy will always have a hold on you. One day, she’ll control your life again.I grip the steering wheel tight, my knuckles turning white. The thought of my mother having any influence over me, over my life, twists in my gut. Ashlyn’s dragging me back into that nightmare.“How can she even say that?” I demand. “How can she think Mother will ever control my life again?”Winona stays quiet beside me, eyes fixed ahead. But she’s heard me. She’s thinking, processing, just like she always does. “And she doesn’t trust me to take care of the baby,” I continue, my voice heating up. “Like I’m some kind of puppet for my mother, incapable of making my own decisions.”Winona finally turns to look at me, her expression tells me she’s about to drop some hard truths. “Jayden, we don’t even know if there is a baby.
Last Updated : 2024-08-22Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 188 My Mom, My Friend
(Winona)Two weeks later, I sat across from Mom at the kitchen table in my townhouse. The place is quiet, too quiet. Abby’s at preschool, and Cass is… well, who knows where Cass is. Enjoying her newfound freedom and independence, no doubt.I’m trying not to worry about her, I mean she isn’t a kid, but the knot in my stomach isn’t loosening anytime soon. I feel like her look will attract people who like to make trouble.Jayden has been busy all this week and apart from Abby time, we’ve barely had the chance to talk or stress…or argue about anything. It’s a good feeling actually. Just us getting on with it without all the crap overshadowing our days.Mom’s hands tremble slightly as she sips her tea. We’ve never had a proper conversation. Not about the weather or dinner plans, but about real stuff. The kind of stuff that digs deep and leaves a mark.But I know if I want to help her and get her to join me with Barnaby, we need to get more than skin deep.I take a breath, deciding to di
Last Updated : 2024-08-22Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 189 Glimmers
(Winona)The therapy room is the same as always—soft lighting, comfortable chairs, Barnaby’s calming presence in the middle. But today, there’s a new tension in the air. Mom sits beside me, her hands clasped tightly in her lap, eyes flicking around the room like a trapped animal.Barnaby smiles warmly at her. “Lucy, thank you for joining us today. This is a safe space for Winona and now, for you. You’re welcome to share as much or as little as you’d like.”Mom nods but doesn’t say anything. She looks like she’d rather be anywhere else. I give her a reassuring smile, but I know this is hard for her. Hell, it’s hard for me, and I’ve been doing this for a while now.Barnaby starts gently, asking Mom about her life before Cass, before everything went to hell. At first, she’s hesitant, giving short, clipped answers. But Barnaby has a way of getting under your skin, making you open up even when you don’t want to.“I know it’s hard to talk about, to relive. But hearing it from you helps Wi
Last Updated : 2024-08-22Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 190 Being a Daughter
(Winona)Jayden walks into my living room with a kind of swagger I haven’t seen in a while. He’s got that confident, easy-going smile that used to drive me crazy back in college—the one that says he knows exactly what he wants, and he’s not afraid to go after it.“I’m done with therapy,” he says, like it’s the most natural thing in the world.I blink at him, caught off guard. “What do you mean, done?”“Exactly that. I don’t need to see Barnaby anymore. I’ve got my shit together, and I’m in control. No more sessions.”It’s not a question, and he’s not looking for my approval. He’s telling me, plain and simple, that he’s made up his mind. There’s something undeniably attractive about the way he says it—like he’s finally stepping into his own power.But there’s also a part of me that’s surprised by how resolute he is.“You’re sure about this?”“Absolutely,” he says, walking over to me and pulling me into his arms. “I know what I want, and I’m not going to let anything or anyone get in t
Last Updated : 2024-08-23Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 191 Date Night
(Winona)Jayden picks me up at seven sharp, looking more confident than I’ve seen him in a long time.There’s a calm determination in his eyes that sets my heart at ease. He’s dressed to impress—tailored suit, polished shoes, the whole nine yards—and I can’t help but feel a flutter of excitement as I step out to meet him.“Wow, you look stunning,” he says, his voice low and sincere, as he takes my hand. “I’m the luckiest guy in the world.”I twirl in my little black dress and heels. It feels amazing to be doing this.I smile, a warmth spreads through me. “You don’t look so bad yourself, Mr. Brennan.”“I can’t wait until you’re Mrs. Brennan.”“Let’s go, I’m starving.” I don’t really want to talk about the wedding.I wasn’t even sure if he considered us still engaged. Maybe that was me, after that awful fight on our engagement night.We head to one of our old favorite spots—a cozy, intimate restaurant where we used to go back in the day. It’s the kind of place that’s seen us through som
Last Updated : 2024-08-23Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 192 Not Asking Permission
(Jayden)The next morning, I’m sitting in a medical room in a high security facility.Ashlyn is sitting across from me, her face unreadable. Two doctors are present, one of them holding a folder with the results. I’ve never felt more on edge.The doctor finally speaks, his voice professional and detached. “Mr. Brennan, Ashlyn, after conducting a full examination and multiple tests, we can confirm that there is indeed a baby.”Ashlyn nods.Okay then.My voice steady. I know I need the details. “How? Ashlyn showed signs of miscarrying before according to her and the previous medical reports, and then she threw herself down the stairs trying to set Winona up. How is this possible?”The doctor flips through his notes. “It’s rare, but not impossible. Ashlyn was carrying twins. She lost one, but the other fetus survived. The remaining baby appears to be healthy against all odds.”I’m floored. Twins. I glance at Ashlyn, but she’s staring at the floor.“Well,” I start, my voice firm, “if tha
Last Updated : 2024-08-23Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 193 Devil On My Doorstep
(Winona)I pace around the living room, trying to make sense of everything that went down last night. A wonderfully romantic date night marred by my past.Jayden going all bad-ass on Steve was… something. Part of me was stoked to see it, but another part of me, the part that’s lived with Steve’s shadow and dark legacy, is scared.I’m scared Steve will retaliate big time. No, more than scared—I’m fucking terrified.Steve’s here, and that’s not just a problem you can punch away.I grab my phone, contemplating the idea of a no-contact order. Jayden’s setting one up against Judy, so I could get one against Steve too. But the thing is, Steve doesn’t play by the rules. Never has, never will.The law’s just a step by step guide to breaking the rules to him, a joke. He’s always found a way to slip through the cracks, to do what he wants, when he wants. And that’s what terrifies me the most.Jayden called earlier, and said he had to fly out for business last night. But he has his best security
Last Updated : 2024-08-24Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 194 Once And For All
(Winona)“What the hell are you doing here?” The words slip out before I can stop them. I’m too on edge to care about politeness right now.“Is that any way to greet your daughter’s grandmother?” Judy’s voice is all syrupy sweetness, but her eyes—those cold, calculating eyes—are scanning me, taking in every detail.Gus gives me an apologetic smile. “I told her you didn’t like surprises.”“Abby’s at school,” I say, crossing my arms. “And we have plans after, so…”“So?” Judy cuts in, her tone sharp. “So we’ll wait. I’d love to catch up with you, Winona. Maybe we can chat while we wait for Abby to come home?”I do not want her near my mother.Is this coincidence that Steve is in town and Judy shows up?I’m not mentioning a word about anything. Not Jayden, not Steve and definitely not Ashlyn.I stand my ground.“Maybe I can help,” Judy offers, her voice too eager. “I could pick Abby up from school, like I used to. Spend some time with her while you handle your plans.”“No,” I say, too qui
Last Updated : 2024-08-24
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Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 566 Don’t Mess With Us
(Winona)I don’t call ahead. I don’t give Mia a chance to prepare.I walk into Brennan Industries like I own the place, straight past the receptionist, ignoring the protests as I push open Mia’s office door and shut it behind me. Mia looks up sharply, her entire body stiffening. “Winona, what the hell?” Her English has nuances of her Cuban accent but less than the rest of her family.I step forward, keeping my voice steady. “We need to talk.” Her eyes narrow. “Then schedule a meeting like a normal person.” “I don’t have time for games, Mia.” I plant my hands on her desk. “Tell me the truth. Are you in contact with Don Alejandro?” Mia lets out a sharp breath, closing her laptop with more force than necessary. “Are you serious right now?” “Deadly.” She scoffs, shaking her head. “I have nothing to do with him. It’s also none of your business what I do.” “Right,” I say flatly. “But I don’t trust you. I don’t trust Gabriel and I’m not even sure I trust your mother. You better not be
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 565 Easy, Effortless Happiness
(Winona)The call is done. Vault is set for the launch. I should feel good. It’s all about to happen for me. The biggest night of my life so far. And Jayden won’t be there to share it with me. I know he must have a good reason, but it still makes me a little sad. A major milestone missed. But we’ll have others.I go to step back into the room and stop. Jayden and Astrid are still talking, their voices low, steady. Sofia isn’t there. Astrid is smiling and laughing. I’ve never seen that before. She’s into him, I know she is. But I also know she won’t overstep. Won’t do anything that would throw Nexus Global out of whack.Is that the only reason why, though? I watch them relaxed and enjoying a conversation. It feels ages since Jayden and I have been so relaxed in each other’s company. But we do have the stresses of the family dynamic.The kids are undoubtedly our main priority. Are we just trying too hard for the rest?He and Astrid are joking about something.It’s not romantic. No
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 564 Let It Go
(Jayden)Winona’s phone buzzes against the table. She glances at the screen, mutters something, and pushes up from her seat. “Vault,” she says looking at me, already heading out to the terrace. I nod at Winona and give her a smile.“Jayden, the media shoot will go a long way to help turn public perception. Sorry we had to blow up your family time…” Sofia says with a smile. “But can I just say, those kids are adorable, and you guys really seem to have your shit sorted as a family.”“At least we have that perception down solid.” I grin at her. “Trust me, it feels the exact opposite sometimes. I appreciate you saying that, Sofia. We’ve worked hard to keep it real for the kids.”“And sacrificed a lot,” Astrid states.“There’s been a lot of changes, for sure. All worth it.”“Maybe we should do a segment on the kids. I know you adopted Bobby and Sarah… and Winona adopted Henry?”“Are you trying to get me killed? There’s no way Winona will ever go for an exposé on our kids, and neither wou
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 563 Public Relations-Private Relations
(Winona)The kids are out cold, completely wrecked from a full day of running, climbing, eating junk food, and making a mess of the suite. River and Kit have been off-duty since we got back from our day until we fly out tomorrow night.My muscles are really feeling sore right now. I make mental note to get more strength training sessions in. Maybe I better get out of the gym and do more outdoor activities. I loved the rock-climbing wall.I place the green salad on the table next to the warmed flatbreads. Jayden and I are hosting Astrid and Sofia for a late dinner. A bit of a debrief on the media situation and a friendly catch up outside of work. I’m looking forward to it but also a little nervous about being in close proximity to Astrid.She is very straightforward, and she doesn’t flinch at stating things how they are. Something I always appreciated about her even though at first it was a little jarring. So far, so good though. Jayden places the char-grilled meats and vegetable pl
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 562 Family Ties
(Jayden)Henry is in his highchair, making a complete mess of himself with mustard and ketchup. Bobby and Sarah are locked in a dramatic debate over whether onions belong on hot dogs, while Abby is curled up between us singing the song on the movie. Winona leans over to me, her body warm against mine.I tighten my arm around her. “We’re okay? Yes?” She hesitates. “Yes, we’re just fine. Sorry I get in my head so much with feelings.” “Sorry I don’t get in mine enough with your feelings.”She smiles back at me and I’m glad we just get each other these days. “But what about sleep? Are you getting enough?” I’m really asking if Winona is still having the nightmares about the baby crying…“Mostly.”“So you still having them, huh?”“It’s been better with Vault to focus on. Staying busy.”“If you need to get to the point of exhaustion before you can sleep soundly, that isn’t good long term.”She leans over and kisses me. “I’m okay. I promise. It’s getting better. Let’s not ruin the fun ni
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 561 Good Times
(Jayden)Henry shrieks in delight as the bucket tips over, drenching him in a torrent of water that would terrify most kids his age. His little hands slap the wet surface, his laugh infectious as Sarah and Abby cheer him on. “I told you he’d love it,” Bobby calls from the climbing ropes, shaking his head as he swings across to the next section. “He’s used to the hose at home.”“I’m not sure you and your little brother are safe together.” I laugh and Bobby climbs higher. This is a fantastic kids park, it has everything and not just for kids. Winona and I have given them a run for their money today.Kit chuckles beside me. “Gotta admit, the kid’s fearless.” “No argument there,” I say, keeping a watchful eye on Henry as he wobbles through the shallow splash area, River close behind. It’s been a perfect day—the kind we don’t get nearly enough of. No meetings, no deadlines, no PR disasters. Just us. The family. All playing and having loads of fun. The film crew is here, but they’ve don
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 560 Alone At last
(Winona)Sofia’s voice cues the next topic. “You’ve both had demanding careers. How do you make sure the kids come first?” I shift, pushing my sunglasses up onto my head. “We make it work by making sure that when we are together, we are fully present. No distractions.” Jayden smirks. “Well, most of the time. There’s always the occasional emergency.” “Business emergencies are one thing. But the kids know they’re our priority. They always come first,” I say.Bobby speaks up. “We have a family video call every night, before bed. We never miss it. No matter where we are.” I nod. “That’s right. And this is our first family trip but not our last. The kids have chores. Bobby gets out in the garden and he’s great at landscape design. We just find ways to drown out the negative white noise with positive family energy.”The day finally comes to an end and cameras capture it all. The smiles, the laughter, the easy dynamic we’ve spent years building. I’m proud of us. Sofia was right. This was
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 559 Lights, Cameras, Action
(Winona)The sun blazes down, the sky a perfect, uninterrupted blue as we step onto the deck of the yacht. Dubai’s skyline looms behind us, glass towers gleaming in the heat, the water an impossible shade of turquoise. The cameras are already set up, discreet but ever-present. A carefully curated glimpse into the life of a family that—on paper—has it all. Jayden shakes hands with the producer, exchanging pleasantries, while I shift Henry on my hip, forcing a smile. I see Sofia Fernandez, Nexus Global’s Head of Public Relations. I’m a little relieved to see a familiar face and someone I bonded with in Brussels. Then behind her I see Astrid Koenig. I stiffen slightly at the blank expression but that’s just Astrid. Sofia comes straight in with a huge smile and hug for me.As I hug her back, I see Astrid approach Jayden. She’s not a hugger but she does touch his hand and eyeball him while giving a definite nod. He smiles back like he’s not trying to smile. I can tell she likes him.A w
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 558 Picture Perfect
(Winona)Dubai is breathtaking. The resort is pure indulgence—pristine beaches, towering glass buildings, the smell of salt and luxury in the air. The kids are all fed and crashed in bed and Jayden has arranged a late dinner for us.Dinner is set on the resort rooftop, candles flickering against the warm night breeze, the city stretching out beneath us in a blanket of gold lights.Jayden reaches for my hand across the table. “It’s nice, isn’t it? Us, here. Without work hanging over our heads. Our family all together. I’ve missed the kids so much.”I smile, but it’s not quite real. I’m trying to forget earlier. “The kids?”“And you as well, that goes without saying.”“Does it?”He studies me. “You okay?”“Not really. But I will be. It’s been hectic and I so looked forward to being here,” I say, “ without the media.”“I can guarantee you there’s no media or cameras clicking tonight. I made sure we had absolute privacy.” “We may as well get to the first of the herd of elephants in the r
