(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
(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
(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
(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
(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
(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
(Winona)A few hours later, Dr. Green pops in. The doctor’s face is calm, but she does look serious. Jayden and I stand on either side of our son, our hands still resting gently on his tiny form.The reality of what we’re facing is beginning to set in.“Congratulations on the birth of your son,” Dr. Harris says, her voice soft but serious. “He’s stable, but we need to be realistic about the challenges ahead.”“What kind of challenges?” Jayden asks.“He’s going to need tube feeding for a while,” Dr. Harris explains, her eyes meeting mine with a steadiness that I appreciate. “He’s very premature, and his organs are still developing. The next few weeks will be critical in determining his long-term health.”Jayden nods, he’s absorbing every word, every piece of information. “Will he be…? I mean, will he have any ongoing disability?”“There’s always a chance of health complications in the long term,” Dr. Harris continues. “We’ll be monitoring him closely.”I swallow hard, trying to keep my
(Jayden)I stand in the Brennan wing of the hospital. I’m going into the smaller unit to meet with Ashlyn’s Mom. Ashlyn is in there as well and I know that her Mom, as her next of kin, has to sign the papers that will let the doctors turn off the life support.This has to be hard for Mrs. Carter. I let myself in the door and went to the living area. I don’t want to interrupt her personal time with Ashlyn in the bedroom. I hear voices, and I guess the medical staff are updating her.I named the baby after Ashlyn’s father, as a small gesture of respect, something that might offer some comfort to Mrs. Carter.But as soon as Mrs. Carter walks into the room, I feel the tension. She’s a tall woman, her posture rigid, with a coldness in her eyes that immediately puts me on edge. She looks perfect, too perfect.The kind of perfect that you know is bought and paid for.“Mrs. Carter,” I say, keeping my voice steady. “Thank you for coming. I wanted you to know that I named the baby after Ashly
(Winona)The soft cry of a baby envelopes me. At first, it’s faint, like it’s coming from another room. Then it grows louder, more insistent. I’m fumbling, trying to pinpoint the direction, but I can’t find it. My hands press against empty air, the cries getting louder. I’m coming, baby. I’m coming. I wake with a gasp, my chest so tight I can’t draw a breath back in. My hands grip the sheets. It’s like I’ve been running. But I’m in bed. My bed.I look over and see Jayden isn’t beside me. But bright sun is coming through the window. I must have slept late.The room is still. I finally suck a breath into my lungs. No baby crying. No baby to find. No baby.The realization twists. I sit up, forcing myself to breathe slowly, deliberately. “It’s just a dream,” I whisper, running a hand through my hair. “Just a stupid dream.” ***After dressing in a loose shirt and jeans, I decide to head downstairs. The scent of coffee and toast wafts up, warm and inviting. I can hear the kids’ chat
(Cass)I stride through the penthouse, my stiletto heels clicking against the marble floor with purpose.I know I look good—stunning, actually. This dress hugs every curve just right, and the deep emerald green makes my eyes pop.Tonight is about reminding myself that I have a feminine side and I’m not afraid to use it. Gabriel may have been part of my past, but I’m going to show him just how irresistible the present me is. But as I head towards the elevator, Viktor steps out, his tall frame filling the space and his expression hard as stone. He crosses his arms and plants himself directly in front of the doors. “Ready for your date then??” he asks, his voice low, almost a growl. “You know I am,” I reply, refusing to let him intimidate me. “Unless you plan to stand there all night.” His eyes rake over me, lingering just a second too long on the neckline of my dress before snapping back to my face. “You’re really going out with Gabriel.” It’s not a question. “Yes, I am.” I tilt my
(Jayden)I find her on her laptop. “How are you really feeling?” I ask, standing by the edge of the bed. She looks up, her eyes softening. “Tired, but okay. It’s good to be home. That makes me feel one thousand percent better. You’ve got that look.”“What look?” I ask, kicking off my shoes and stripping down to my boxers.“The one that says you’ve got something weighing on you,” she replies, her tone softer now.I sigh, running a hand through my hair and sit on the edge of the bed. “It’s Cass. She’s in danger, Winona. Real danger.”Winona shifts, her eyes narrowing with concern. “What kind of danger? How?”“Don Alejandro, he hasn’t been arrested. He’s gone underground and he’s still calling the shots,” I say, my voice low.“But Cass has nothing to do with him, or Mia anymore. Gus cleared her of anything drug-related. How can she be in danger?”“Cass went to her old apartment. To clear it up. Trying to make a clean slate, I think. While she was there, they turned up.”“Who?”“Mia fir
(Jayden)“Daddy’s home!” Abbey squeals, her feet thundering across the wooden floor towards me. I barely have time to drop my briefcase before she launches herself at me. I scoop her up, spinning her in a slow circle while she giggles wildly. “Hey, princess,” I say, kissing her cheek. “Did you miss me?” She nods, curls bouncing. “Missed you so much! Mommy’s upstairs. She said you were bringing Henry back, but you didn’t. Where is he?” “Henry’s asleep in the car,” I explain, setting her down. “I’ll grab him in a minute. I had to get my Abbey hug first.” Bobby appears in the doorway, leaning casually against the frame like he’s auditioning for a teen drama. “Dinner’s almost ready. Sarah and I are making sure everything’s perfect for Mom. We’re making up trays.” “That so?” I ruffle his hair, and he swats my hand away with a grin. “Good work, kid. You’re the man of the house when I’m not here, right?” “Obviously,” he says, puffing his chest out. “This place would fall apart without
(Mia)“You know what, Gabriel?” I say, my voice sharp. “Maybe you’re not as noble as you want everyone to believe. You think I don’t see what you’re doing? You’re not trying to protect this family. You’re trying to control it.”He narrows his eyes. “What are you talking about?”“Don’t play dumb,” I snap. “You just want Brennan Industries for yourself. That’s what this is really about, isn’t it? Turning Ana and Eva against me so they’ll sell to you.”“That’s ridiculous,” Gabriel retorts, his tone cold. “I’m protecting the company from you. You’ve already proven you can’t be trusted. Someone has to safeguard what Papá built.”“What Papa started,” I say, crossing my arms. “That company was built by Judy Brennan. Our father was an awful businessman. But he loved us, all of us. Don’t forget, Gabriel, we all share the same blood. The same father. We all deserve to benefit from the legacy, not just you.”Ana shifts uncomfortably, her eyes darting between us. “Mía, it’s not about taking sides
(Mia)The townhouse is spotless. Every vase, every gold fixture, every inch of marble gleams under the crystal chandelier’s glow. I’ve made sure of it, not for me, but for them. My family is coming, and I know the judgment in their eyes will be as sharp as their words. They will think I don’t belong here. Such luxury and display of wealth is unbecoming. I should be more humble. Show more gratitude and grace.I don’t care. I do belong here. All I want is for mother to love and respect me as a woman. Not to always see me as her baby girl who needs constant mothering.I straighten the throw pillows for the third time, my nerves simmering beneath my skin. When the doorbell rings, I force my shoulders back and my face into a practiced smile. “Come in,” I say as I open the door. Mama steps in first, her dark eyes scanning the room like she’s searching for something to scold me about. Behind her, Ana and Eva follow, their expressions less obvious but no less guarded. Gabriel brings up
(Winona)“Winona,” he says, walking over to kiss my temple. “Welcome home. It feels so good here, right?”“You feel it too?” That makes me happy. Knowing Jayden feels the same vibe the kids and I do in this place.“You chose perfectly. I’m heading out for a meeting with Gus and Viktor. Figured I’d take Henry with me. He can nap in the car. If that’s okay with you? Is Henry being with Gus okay?” I nod. “Gus visited me, and we sorted some stuff. It’s fine with me if it’s fine with you.”He kisses my lips and whispers in my ear, “I can’t wait to snuggle with you tonight. I have missed you so, so much after dinner time.” He nuzzles my ear.I smile as Henry tries to grab my hair.“Hey, you two, get a room!” Lisa teases.“Oh, we will.” He steps away and Henry reaches for me and I hold his little hand in mine. I’ve missed him so much.“Anyway, I better bounce. Get this Global Nexus stuff done,” Jayden says.“Henry can stay here if it’s easier.”“No need. He’s my right-hand man these days. H
(Winona)The moment I step into the farmhouse, the scent of lavender and woodland spice welcomes me like an old friend. I know it’s one of Klara’s aromatherapy concoctions that I love.Lisa has given me a ride home to save Jayden the trip into the city as he’s here with the kids.The kids are buzzing around like a small tornado, their excitement obvious. It’s a stark contrast to the opulence of Brussels high-end estate or Jayden’s Penthouse here. This place is different. It’s ours. Once I have the renovations done, it will still be luxurious, of course—heated floors, state-of-the-art kitchen, and furnishings you’d see in a design magazine—but not excessive.It’s cozy, warm, and every inch of it feels lived-in. It’s like the cottage in a way. A family home but this place has something the cottage didn’t have. A history in its walls of previous families. It feels like home in a way nowhere else I’ve ever lived has.Even my townhouse, which was perfect for me at the time, pales in com
(Cass)I sit on the couch at Jayden’s penthouse, picking at my nails, while Viktor stands near the window, arms crossed, eyes focused on the city below.His broad shoulders are tense, his entire posture screaming disapproval.I’ve just told him what I overheard in my apartment and he’s acting like I heard it on purpose.“Say it,” I snap, breaking the silence.He turns, his blue eyes icy. “You shouldn’t have gone there alone.”“Tell me why you went there,” he demands, his voice a coiled spring ready to snap. “I didn’t know they’d be there!” I snap, my frustration bubbling to the surface. “I was cleaning up, minding my own business, and then they just… showed up.” “Does anyone else know?” he growls, his accent thickening with his anger. “Did you see anyone on the way in, or out? If he finds out…” “No.” I fire back. “No one else was around. Stop being so dramatic.”“You need to take this seriously,” he says, his voice sharp enough to cut glass. “Don Alejandro is one of the most danger