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212 The Right Decisions
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2024-08-30 11:32:40Related chapters
Divorce 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 : 2024-08-31Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 216 Passing the Torch
(Jayden)The boardroom buzzes with the usual tension that comes with high-stakes meetings, but today there's an extra layer of unease. No doubt the rumors have been rife, but I have something no one saw coming. Not even me.The proof has been shown. DNA proof. I only needed to see the Brennan eyes to know that. There’s no doubt that I’m walking in with Greg’s family behind me. All eyes are on us, and the room goes silent as the door closes behind us all.“Can someone get some more seats? Sorry, this is last minute.” I ask one of the trainee assistants.Lance is at my side, but he’s unusually quiet. I know he’s trying to gauge the situation, but I can see the surprise in his eyes too. None of this was in the script, and he’s not used to me being unpredictable.I glance at the board members, their faces are a mix of confusion and curiosity. Good. Let them wonder. They wanted change, they’ll have it.“Good morning,” I say, my voice steady and clear as I take my place at the head of the h
Last Updated : 2024-09-01Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 217 The Decision
(Winona)Every time I’ve been at this hospital it’s been in fear of the life of someone I love dearly. Abby, Jayden, Mom.Now, I’m walking back into that same uncertainty, but this time it’s about a life that hasn’t even begun yet. I see Jayden ahead, his tall frame standing rigid, his eyes focused on the floor. He looks like a man ready for battle, and in a way, he is.“Jayden,” I call out as I approach. His head snaps up, and the tension in his face softens just a bit when he sees me.“Winona,” he replies, his voice thick with emotions he’s trying to keep in check. He pulls me into a quick hug, his arms strong and protective around me. “Thanks for coming.”“Of course,” I say, leaning into him for just a moment, taking some of his strength for myself. “What’s the situation?”“They’re prepping Ashlyn for the emergency c-section,” he explains, his voice steady but laced with worry.I nod, trying to absorb the gravity of the situation. “Do they know if the baby will be okay?”He shakes
Last Updated : 2024-09-01Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 218 Greg’s What??!!
(Judy)I know there was a board meeting happening today. Whatever, I’ve honestly lost my zest for life anyway.Maybe I’ll take up cruising life. There’s nothing here for me now. I can go be a prisoner of my own doing in my castle after that.My lawyer calls and I connect. “Hello.”Mark’s voice comes through, tense and measured. “Judy, you’re not going to believe what I’m about to tell you.”“Try me,” I say, rolling my eyes.Lawyers always have a flair for the dramatic. I used to be able to trump the dramatic with a flick of my fingers. Those days are over. I have no battles left to fight.“It’s about Jayden,” he begins, “he’s… well, he’s walked away from Brennan Industries.”“What do you mean, ‘walked away’? That’s ridiculous. Jayden wouldn’t just leave. He’s not stupid.”“I know it sounds unbelievable,” Mark says, his tone cautious. “But it’s true. He handed over half of his shares… to you.”“To me?” My heart leaps at the thought.Maybe, just maybe, he’s finally come to his senses. M
Last Updated : 2024-09-01Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 219 A Breath of Life
(Winona)The room is bright, too bright, as the surgical lights glare down on Ashlyn’s still form, her chest still rising and falling in time with the machine keeping her alive. Alive for this, this moment.I pray the baby comes through. I stand beside Jayden, gripping his hand tightly, trying to be strong for him—for both of us. The tension is thick with worried nerves from the both of us, every second dragging on like an eternity.Jayden hasn’t taken his eyes off Ashlyn’s face, his face set in a grim expression. He’s stroking her cheek, and my heart is breaking for him. I know he’s trying to keep it together, but I can feel the tremor in the hand I’m holding.I tighten my grip momentarily and then let go.I take Ashlyn’s hand. “This is it, Ashlyn, the one thing you wanted. To see this baby make it. You asked me to adopt your baby. To keep the baby safe. I promise you I will always do that for you. Jayden and I will always do that.”A single tear rolls down Jayden’s face onto his fac
Last Updated : 2024-09-02Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 220 A Father’s Touch
(Jayden)“But what about Ashlyn? What happens now?” I ask because as much as my baby has life, this also means hers will likely end. I can’t just ignore that.“She’ll be well cared for post-op and taken back to her room. The same as any patient. You’ll get time to say goodbye if that’s what’s needed.”I sigh in relief. “I want Ashlyn taken to the Brennan Wing. No arguments. Her mother is due this afternoon. Please make sure she has everything she needs in there with her daughter.”“Of course, Mr. Brennan.”The trip to the neonatal ward is a blur. The tiny form of my son, wrapped in a small, sterile blanket, is surrounded by the best medical equipment and minds available.The doctors and nurses work quickly, their hands deft and sure, ensuring that every moment counts.The billions in my bank don’t count for anything right now. Because sometimes the best medical care you can buy still isn’t enough.Winona is beside me as we follow along with the small incubator that holds my son, our s
Last Updated : 2024-09-02
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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
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 488 Family Dynamics
(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
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 487 Reckoning with Lance
(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
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 486 She’s Okay
(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
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 485 The Fight for Her
(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
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 484 Stay With Me, Winona
(Jayden)I burst through the front door, taking the stairs two at a time to the second floor. I pray I’m in time. I stop at the bottom of the attic stairs.Then I see her.Winona lies crumpled halfway down the attic stairs, her body twisted awkwardly. Her head jammed up against the wall, her hand rests on a spindle. Blood pools beneath her head on the stair, dark and horrifying, and for a second, I’m frozen.My mind blanks out, every thought swept away by raw panic.But then I snap back. She needs me. She needs me to be fully present, not panicking.I force myself forward, the first aid kit from the car clutched in my shaking hands. Every instinct screams at me to scoop her up, to hold her, but I stop myself. If she’s hurt her neck or spine… I could make it worse. My knees hit the stair below her, and I reach for her wrist with trembling fingers.A faint pulse. Relief crashes over me so hard I almost collapse, but it’s short-lived. She’s alive, but for how long?I tear open the first
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 483 Breaking Point
(Cass)“Winona!” I scream into the phone again, but there’s only silence. The screen is dark, it’s silent. She isn’t answering. “Goddammit, Winona!” I shout, “answer me! Be okay. Answer me…”I don’t want to end the call, she could be… But I have to. I need to call Jayden.My breath is ragged gasps as I stumble to the kitchen counter, gripping the edge for support. My shaking fingers scroll to Jayden’s number. “Pick up, pick up!” My voice cracks as I pace in a tight circle, clutching the phone to my ear. It rings, and then—voicemail. “Are you fucking kidding me?” I scream, slamming the phone onto the counter so hard it bounces off and hits the floor. Fuck! It’s totaled now.My chest tightens, panic squeezing my throat. How can I call him, how can I contact Jayden? I grab my jacket and bolt out the door, running as fast as my legs will carry me to the estate. Viktor. He has a another number, one that always gets answered.My lungs are bursting as I run full tilt for the estate, but
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 482 Checking in with Cass
(Winona)Cass’s face fills my phone screen, her hair messy and there are definite dark circles under her eyes.“God, you look wrecked,” I tease gently as I check out the kitchen of the home I’m about to close on. Anne has the kids for the afternoon, so I’m going to show-off this place to Cass. Cass groans. “Tell me about it. I just got done with prep for the estate’s first formal dinner since Jayden left. I’m in charge of a canape, Winona. A canape!” I raise an eyebrow. “That’s a really big deal. You should be proud of yourself.” “Oh I am. I’m so excited. These chefs are relentless but I’m learning so much. I love it here, even if Viktor’s constant hovering is killing my vibe a little.” “Hovering?” I ask, confused. “He’s not here physically—he’s too busy running Nexus Global—but the calls, the emails, the random texts asking if I’ve checked the locks or need anything… it’s constant. Can you tell Jayden to call him off please?” I lean forward, frowning. “Cass, I don’t think Jayde
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 481 Judy’s Service
(Jayden)Mother’s polished mahogany coffin sits at the front, surrounded by white lilies and roses, a stark contrast to the tumultuous life she lived and the wreckages she caused. It’s just Gus and me. No friends, no extended family. Just the two of us and that was what she wanted. Of course she did, just us two solely focused on her. Gus sits beside me in shackles, the officers are keeping their distance for now and covering all exits. He’s leaning forward with his elbows on his knees, his face drawn and pale. He looks like a man carrying the world’s regrets on his shoulders. He should be.I stand up and go forward to place a single rose on top of the coffin. This is it, she’s really gone. My emotions are tangled—anger, relief, guilt, and some small, stubborn ache that won’t let go. I feel free, and that in itself feels wrong. I go sit next to Gus again.But she made my adult life Hell and Winona is right, a big part of me won’t miss any part of that. I will miss most what I didn
