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207 Finding a Way Forward
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2024-08-29 22:47:12Related chapters
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 208 Priorities and Legacies
(Winona) I sit with Jayden in the quiet of Ashlyn’s hospital room.The doctors have just left after delivering the news. Ashlyn’s condition hasn’t changed, and they don’t expect her to regain consciousness. Her brain is showing no activity.But the baby is showing no signs of distress right now. That’s the one piece of good news we needed to hear.Ashlyn and I were once friends. I helped her a lot through the her school years. Seeing her like this, even after all the things she’s done to me, makes me feel sad for her. I wish she’d have chosen a different path in life.Jayden is standing by Ashlyn’s bedside, his hand resting on the small swell of her abdomen. “They said the baby can stay in the womb as long as there’s no distress.”His voice is low, controlled. “The best option is to let the baby grow stronger, but if there’s any sign of trouble, we’ll have to act fast. But, I mean, I feel like it’s a cruel thing to keep a body going for my own devices like this. No one deserves to be
Last Updated : 2024-08-29Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 209 Trying To Find Normal
(Winona)I glance at Jayden, still sitting beside Ashlyn’s hospital bed, his eyes heavy with exhaustion. I know he doesn’t want to leave here but I can see the toll it’s taking on him. The dark circles under his eyes, the tension in his shoulders—it’s all too much.He needs a break, even if he doesn’t want to admit it.“Jayden,” I say softly, reaching out to touch his arm. “You need to take a break.”He shakes his head, not even looking at me. “I can’t leave. What if something happens?”“I understand,” I say, my voice gentle but firm. “But there’s not a lot you can do here right now. The doctors are taking care of Ashlyn and the baby. You need to take care of yourself, too. Just come home to see Abby and have dinner.”He finally looks at me, his eyes filled with a mix of exhaustion and stubbornness. “I don’t want to leave.”“I know,” I say, squeezing his arm. “But life is still going on outside of this hospital room. Come home, see Abby, take a shower... just breathe for a little whil
Last Updated : 2024-08-29Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 210 Home With Abby
(Winona)The atmosphere around the dinner table is warm, despite the undercurrent of what’s to come. Anne, with her nurturing presence, insisted on cooking tonight, filling the penthouse with the comforting aromas of a home-cooked meal.She’s always known how to make any place feel like a home, and tonight is no different. We’re all here for Abby, to help her understand and cope with the loss that needs to be explained.I’m dreading it. I think the only thing worse than feeling pain is seeing other people’s pain and not being able to help. Seeing my daughter’s pain is not something I’m looking forward to.Jayden sits at the head of the table, his presence steady and reassuring. There’s a confidence about him despite what he’s personally going through. I can tell he’s put his difficulties aside to focus on our family unit tonight.I’ve never felt that way before with him.Abby is beside him, her little legs swinging under the chair as she eagerly eats the meal Anne prepared. She’s real
Last Updated : 2024-08-30Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 211 Anything is Possible
(Winona)“I’m not going anywhere. It’s okay.”Jayden’s eyes are wide. He clearly wasn’t expecting this level of emotion from Abby.Cass wipes her tears away, trying to be strong for Abby. “It’s okay to be sad, Abby. We will all miss Grandma Lucy.”“We’re going to be okay, Abby.” I hold her close.Anne, ever the steady presence, speaks up softly. “Abby, Grandma Lucy loved you so much. She wouldn’t want you to be sad for too long. She’d want you to remember all the good times you had together.”Abby nods against Cass’s chest, her tears slowly subsiding. “I remember when we drew pictures of her favorite park. She said she’d take me there one day.”“That’s a wonderful memory,” Anne says, smiling gently. “And you can keep those pictures forever.”“I’ll take you to that place, Abby.” Cass says to her.“Okay.” Abby sniffles as her tears dry up a little.Jayden clears his throat, drawing our attention. “I’ve been thinking… I’m not going back to the hospital tonight. I need to be here, with al
Last Updated : 2024-08-30Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 212 The Right Decisions
(Jayden)I take a deep breath before answering. “Brennan,” I say, my voice steady, even though my stomach is in knots.“Mr. Brennan, this is Dr. Mitchell. I wanted to give you an update on Ashlyn and the baby.”I hold my breath, waiting for the worst. “Go ahead.”“The baby’s condition remains stable. No changes today, which is good news. We’re continuing to monitor closely, but for now, everything is holding steady.”Relief washes over me. “Thank you, Doctor. I appreciate the update.”“You’re welcome. We’ll keep you informed of any changes. There’s no need for you to be here tonight if you choose to stay home.”“Thanks,” I say again before ending the call. I stare at the phone in my hand, letting the relief sink in. “The baby’s still okay.” I tell Winona who is looking on, concerned.“Oh, thank goodness. That’s great news, Jayden.”“I think I’ll stay here tonight. Doc says I’m not needed there.”“It’s up to you. I get it if you feel you need to be at the hospital.”“Maybe for a check
Last Updated : 2024-08-30Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 213 A Quieter Future
(Winona)I sit across from Jayden in the penthouse living room, the city lights flickering outside the floor-to-ceiling windows. The day has been long and exhausting, the week has, but somehow, sitting here with him, a sense of calm settles over me.We’ve finished cleaning up from dinner with Cass, and Anne is sleeping in Abby’s room. Abby had trouble settling off to sleep after the news we gave her over dinner.I was so relieved when she finally closed her red-rimmed eyes after countless memories we shared about Mom since she’d come to live with us. I’m grateful we’ve had that time to have memories of her.It’s heart-wrenching to see Abby’s little mind try and cope with the awful news. It’s late now and Jayden and I are chatting over a glass of port. The drink is warming, almost comforting with everything going on in our lives.Jayden leans back on the sofa, his eyes searching mine. “I’ve been thinking a lot about the future.”I nod, leaning in a little closer. “It’s hard to think to
Last Updated : 2024-08-31Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 214 My Wedding Planner
(Winona)“I appreciate that,” I reply, my heart swelling with affection for him. “We can let things progress naturally. We’ve covered a lot of ground with Barnaby and with each other. I don’t think we need to overthink this.”Jayden nods, his hand still holding mine. “I want you to feel safe and natural with me. Like it used to be.”“I want that too. I don’t ever want it to be like our engagement party night again. But I do feel we are seeing life in a different light now.”“For sure. Do we need to redo the engagement party then? Finish on a more positive note?”“No. No going back. I mean, other than us arguing it was a perfect night.”“True. Okay.”“I think we should be planning the wedding.”He smiles at me and nods. “Alright then. I’ll do that.”“You want to plan the wedding?”“Yeah, sure. How hard can it be?”I laugh. “I guess you’ll be finding out.”“I can plan it then?”“Sure, why not? Knock yourself out.”We sit in comfortable silence for a moment, just enjoying the presence of
Last Updated : 2024-08-31Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 215 The last board meeting
(Jayden)I’m in my office at Brennan Industries early, as usual, but today there’s a different energy in the air. It’s the final board meeting before I drop the bombshell I’ve been planning for weeks.My mood is still buzzing after a wonderful night snuggled up with Winona. Neither of us wanted to get out of bed this morning, and after today, I won’t have to. It was perfect and we both slept like logs.I’ve already been to the hospital to see Ashlyn and check on the baby. It’s sobering to see her lying there, kept alive by machines while our baby grows inside her. Her mother is due to fly in today, so I’ll make sure I’m available for her later in the day.They never had a close relationship but I’m sure this will hit hard.This meeting is the last step in cutting ties with everything that’s held me back for too long and I’m keen to get it done.Lance is already here, sitting across from me, feet up on the corner of my desk like he owns the place. He’s always been more comfortable in m
Last Updated : 2024-08-31
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Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 497 Shattered Reality
(Jayden)Winona looks pale, her body trembling, her grip on my shirt loosens as her strength fades. The blood beneath her is too much. Fear grips me.I can’t lose her too.Dr. Harris steps back from the bedside, her face tight with focus as she assesses the situation. “Jayden, we need to stabilize her now,” she says firmly, her tone leaving no room for argument. “I need to prep her for emergency surgery. You’ll need to wait outside.”I don’t let go of Winona’s hand.The nurses move swiftly, adjusting the IV, getting her ready to move to surgery. One of them gently touches my shoulder. “Mr. Brennan, we need you to step back, please.” I shake my head, my grip tightening. “I’m not leaving her.” “Jayden,” Dr. Harris says, her voice soft but commanding. “You can’t help her right now. Let us do our job.” Winona’s eyelids flutter. “Jayden…” she whispers weakly. “I’m here,” I say, kissing her on the nose. “I’m right here.”“Please,” she breathes. “Don’t… let them take me away…” I kiss h
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 496 Future Revealed
Trigger Warning:The following chapter contains sensitive content, including the loss of a pregnancy and scenes of emotional distress. This may be triggering for some readers, particularly those who have experienced similar situations. Please proceed with care, and remember to prioritize your well-being. If needed, take a break or seek support.(Winona)I’m propped up in bed with a stack of pillows, sipping herbal tea from a handmade ceramic mug Klara sent as part of a care package all the way from Brussels.It came with a range of her organic herbal teas, a lavender-scented balm, and a handwritten note in her elegant script: Rest your body, nurture your heart, and trust your strength, Winona. That woman always seems to know what I need before I do.I’m so grateful and thankful for meeting her. I miss her gentle counsel and seeing her on a daily basis now I’m back in the States.My body feels stronger today, the heaviness weighing me down since the fall has lifted ever so slightly. Me
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 495 Broken Inside
(Cass)He steps forward and takes my hand in his. “And I regret it every day,” he says. His touch burns into me, but I know I can’t be betrayed by this physical attraction again.I pull my hand from his. “Enough. You don’t get to touch me. I’m here for my family. Go back to your business. I’m not interested.”Gabriel moves into my personal space again.Viktor moves lethally, placing himself directly between us. “She said enough,” he says, his voice is cold steel. It shouldn’t, but Viktor’s level of protectiveness sends a thrill down my spine. Fuck, I’m so wrong. Stop it.Gabriel’s jaw tightens, and for a moment, I think he’s going to push back.But then he steps away, his hands raised in mock surrender. “Fine. I’ll back off. But only because Cass asked me too. It was wrong of me to barge in with expectations.”“You’re damn right it was,” I say.“I hope Winona recovers well. Perhaps you can spare me some time one evening. For me to apologize properly…”“What part of the word no, don’
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 494 Between Fires
(Cass)Henry is a whirlwind of energy, zipping around the lounge like a tiny hurricane, clinging to the TV remote he’s found and smacking it against the couch.Jayden keeps half an eye on him while balancing a steaming cup of coffee and scrolling through something on his phone. “Should I be worried that your kid’s favorite pastime is destruction?” I ask, leaning against the back of the couch. Jayden smirks but doesn’t look up. “He’s not destructive. He’s… curious.” “Curious? That’s one word for it.” “Curiosity is healthy,” he smiles.Henry giggles and bolts along the floor as I make a beeline to get the remote back off him.“Healthy for him maybe.” I huff and puff as I wrestle the object out of his vice-like grip. “Give me that before you break something, little man.” Henry retaliates with an ear-piercing squeal that makes me cringe. Jayden just grins and plucks him off the floor, holding him upside down like a sack of potatoes. “That’s enough, buddy. Aunt Cass is tired of your a
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 493 Heartbeats
(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
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 492 Waking Up
(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
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 491 Walking Away
(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
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 490 Show of Strength
(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.”
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 489 Creating a Family Cocoon
(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
