LOGINShare
216 Passing the Torch
Last Updated:
2024-09-01 16:02:37Related chapters
Divorce 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 : 2024-09-02Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 221 Naming Our Son
(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
Last Updated : 2024-09-02Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 222 A Parent's Love
(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
Last Updated : 2024-09-03Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 223 Uninvited Guests
(Jayden)The music is pounding, the lights are flashing, and for the first time in what feels like forever, I’m out, trying to enjoy myself.The new club is packed, and Lance is already in his element, a drink in hand, a grin plastered on his face as he chats up every woman within a ten-foot radius.I try to relax, sipping my drink and letting the atmosphere wash over me, but there’s a nagging feeling that I shouldn’t be here. I should be with Henry.“Relax. He’ll be fine with the nurses. You know how good they are with the babies.”“Yeah, but I feel guilty. What if he has a setback?”“He’s been going great all week. The doctor said the best thing you can do is take some you-time. You’ve been there every possible moment.”“I know. I know you are right. But it doesn’t feel right.”“I’m hearing you. But, we’re here now. I’m all dressed up, Cass as well, a little less black and baggy.”“You are looking amazing too” She is. Her slender form in a hugging blue dress is amazing. But she coul
Last Updated : 2024-09-03Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 224 Not My Problem
(Jayden)“What the hell, Lance?” I mutter, trying to keep my voice low.Lance, as usual, is completely oblivious to feelings. “What? I thought it’d be a good idea to bring them out, you know, get to know everyone. They’re family now, right?I glare at him, my jaw clenching. “Family? Lance, I handed them shares to keep them and that business out of my life, not to bring them into it.”Lance shrugs, unbothered by my annoyance. “Yeah, but they’re here now. Might as well make the best of it. Those sisters are hot hot hot!”“Do not even go there. I swear Lance…”Before I can finish, Gabriel catches sight of me and waves hesitantly.I force a smile and wave back, feeling Winona’s eyes on me as she approaches. “I don’t know what Lance has done but I know that look between you two.”Lance waves the four of them to come closer. The older sister is looking like she hates it here and the youngest is bopping with the beat and looks excited. The other is somewhere in between, I think.I sigh, runn
Last Updated : 2024-09-03
Latest chapter
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
