(Winona)The next day, I finally got the chance to catch up with Lisa. Apart from text messages to fill her in on Abby, I hadn’t seen her since the night I took her home after her confession over the drugs scandal.“Wow, this suite is amazing. Can I go see Abby?”“Sure. She’s been awake and able to have clear fluids since the infection started clearing up.”“I’m so happy. Does that mean she’s out of the woods?”I shake my head. “Far from it I’m afraid. Another operation next week. Jayden will be giving a blood sample today, possibly Judy as well although I really hope I don’t have to rely on her to do the right thing.”We walk to Abby’s room and she gives a tiny smile. “Aunt Lisa, yay!”“Hey there, poppet. You feeling better?”Abby nods, “I got jelly for dinner.” “Oh my goodness. That’s amazing.” Lisa sanitizes her hands and gives Abby a high five. “Winning!”The nurse smiles. “I’ll head off for dinner. Buzz if you need anything before I’m back.”“Thank you so much.”“There’s enough
(Jayden)The blood test is done and I’m going to see Ashlyn. Mother can wait. Hopefully I can be the one to help out Abby. My mind is even more confused than ever. Remembering is not all it’s cracked up to be.I’ve gone from never wanting kids to being a father twice over in the space of twenty-four hours. As memories filter back through, I know what I’m walking away from. But if I truly love Winona and my daughter Abby, I will choose to let them have a happy, content and peaceful life.But they said she has my eyes and I’d love to see that. I did think it would be better if I never officially met her, but I think if I can just see her once, that will be enough. Then I can get on with my life. Without Winona.The powerful CEO inside me wants to strike out and take what I want most in the world. But I can’t. I’ve made my decision. I will honor what Ashlyn and I had. I will honor Winona’s wishes. I will honor my children the best I can under the circumstances.From the last time we had
(Winona)“Dr. Green. Thanks for stopping by. A call would have sufficed.” I say as I shake the hand that my daughter’s life depends on.“No, I prefer to discuss this in person.”“Is everything okay with Abby?”“For now, yes. She’s showing strong recovery signs. Her operation is scheduled for Monday morning.” “That soon?” It’s Friday now.“She’s strong enough. But Jayden Brennan was not a match. We won;t proceed Monday if I don’t have a blood stock for her.”My heart sinks at that news. “No other prospects for donation?” I ask hopefully.“Not as yet, no. I do believe you have one other blood relative you can ask. Judy Brennan?”“Yes.” I hesitate because I don’t want my daughter’s life in her hands.“Winona, I can’t operate that soon unless we have the blood. The risk of reinfection and rejection is too high. Abby might not get through recovery.”“But if she doesn’t have the operation on Monday?”“The deterioration in the walls of her heart will continue. We have bought her some time.
(Winona)As I walk back into the Brennan Wing at the hospital to get back to Abby, I dial Jayden. The sterile smell of antiseptic and the low hum of medical equipment surround me, reminding me that it isn’t some holiday home. It makes my heart feel heavier with each step.“Hi, Winona. Is Abby okay?” Jayden’s voice comes through the line, tinged with concern.“Yes, I’m not sure if you know or not, but Doctor Green came to see us this morning. Your blood isn’t a match to Abby’s.” I hate saying those words out loud. It feels like defeat, like another door closing in our desperate search for a solution.“Damn. Winona, I’m sorry.” His apology sounds sincere, but it does little to ease the knot of anxiety tightening in my chest.“Well, we can’t blame you for your blood. Anyway, I went to see your mother.” My voice wavers slightly as I recall the tense meeting with Judy, her steely eyes searching mine for any sign of deception.“Alone?” He sounds surprised, maybe even a bit impressed.“Yes
(Winona)At the club, the music is loud and the lights are dazzling. Phillip is beside me at the bar and I’m not even being biased when I say he looks the fittest man here. His sculpted body is alive in clinging jeans and shirt. I’ve noticed most of the women and a few men give him the eye.“You look stunning,” he whispers in my ear, his breath sending shivers down my spine. “That black dress is smokin’ hot on you.”For the first time ever, I’m ready to explore my deeper feelings with him. I want to be happy.“Thank you,” I reply, feeling a blush creep up my cheeks. I grab his hand and lead him across the dance floor to the table Lisa and Lance are at.It’s nice to have friends around, making the atmosphere less tense, and they are seeming friendlier than usual with each other tonight. I hope Lisa knows what she’s doing and doesn’t get hurt again or hurt anyone else. We’ve been through a lot together and made some bad choices. I keep glancing at the entrance, waiting for Jayden and
(Winona)The next morning, I came out of my bedroom early to go check on Abby. Phillip and I are actually engaged. I do need to pick out a ring, but we’ll get to that soon. We shared some laughs and a few more kisses last night and both went to our own rooms.I’m not ready to take it to the next level yet. While I’m sending out a big message to everyone, as Judy wanted me too, I’m still not ready to be intimate. I sit beside Abby’s bed and watch her sleep. I silently pray we get the blood we need to get this operation done on Monday.“Hey, morning. How was last night?” Anne is beside me with coffee.“I asked Phillip to marry me. He said yes.”Abby moves her head and I nod towards the door indicating we should go out and talk.In the lounge area Anne sits with her coffee. “Are you sure you aren’t rushing it?”I shrug. “Maybe. But I’m just doing everything afraid at this point. I don’t believe in the one true love and soulmate stuff anymore. I’ve learned the hard way that life is abou
(Winona)“If Mrs. Brennan is still there, you can ask her to come back down and make the donation right away. Otherwise, I can call her…”“No need, she’s here. Thank you for letting us know so soon.”“You’re welcome. Doctor Green will touch base with you Monday morning.”The call disconnects and I’m so happy I could hug Judy! I look across at her angular face. Hmmm, maybe not. But anyway, this is the good news I’d prayed for.“Great news! Your blood has the marker they need.”Judy gives a close-lipped smile. “How fortunate. I’m sure that’s a great relief to you.”“They said you can pop back down and make the donation now.”“You know, today is a very busy day for me.”I stare at her. She can’t be saying what I think she is. “Judy? I mean what the actual hell are you saying?”She glances at her Cartier diamond encrusted watch. “Today may not be good for me.”“Really?” My blood is all but boiling in my veins. “I knew you were a first class bitch but you’ve really upgraded lately.” I keep
(Jayden)“Mother! Wow, this is great news.” I’m genuinely happy that she’s a match. Maybe this can go some way to mending bridges between her and Winona.“Son, yes. It really is.”“So, Abby can go for her next op Monday, as soon as your mother gives her blood donation… oh, that’s if you agree to it, Judy. I’d hate to presume…” Winona adds.Why does she have to say something like that? Is she just trying to make an argument?“Of course she’ll donate. What are you saying? Do you really think Mother would refuse?” I snap back.“Of course not. I just meant she may be busy today.” Winona says and I know she’s just saying that to cover for how she feels about Mother. “I think it’s about time you stopped all the petty hatred thing. The past is the past, Winona. Get over it. Mother has really been trying lately.”“Yes, I agree. It’s time to let bygones be bygones.” Winona says and her voice brightens up. “Look, I want to throw a combined birthday and welcome home party for Abby in three week
(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
(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
(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
(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
(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
(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
(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
(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
(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