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394 My Friend Mia
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2024-11-06 11:14:27Related chapters
Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 395 Perfect Plans
(Judy)The view from the penthouse stretches over Dubai’s glittering skyline, neon lights reflecting off the sea, perfectly framed by the vast expanse of desert beyond.I sink back into the plush silk armchair, savoring the balmy warmth of the evening as I sip from a crystal glass of the finest champagne. There’s a richness to this city, a pulse that suits me. A place where wealth and exclusivity are second nature, where people understand influence is bought, not earned.My phone pings, a soft chime interrupting my thoughts. It’s a brief update from Phillip, telling me things are running smoothly, that Mia’s handling the responsibilities I left her with.Good. Mia is perfectly capable of managing Brennan Industries in my absence. In fact, she’s probably even more driven than I am when it comes to maintaining my expectations.Phillip, of course, pretends to be on Winona’s side. But I don’t care, it looks like he’s aligned with me and that’s all I need. And Lance? Well, he’s off on one
Last Updated : 2024-11-07Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 396 Beating Judy at her Own Game
(Jayden)“Judy’s jet is headed here, to London.”I pause, Viktor’s words sinking in. She always seems to know when things are vulnerable, and now, with Nexus London under siege from within, here she comes. I mean how could she know this place is on its back foot. Unless…No, surely I’m being paranoid.I force a shrug. “Might be a coincidence.”Viktor doesn’t blink. “We both know it’s not.”“Fine,” I say, rubbing the back of my neck. “But I’m not meeting her. There’s nothing she could say to make a difference to how I feel now. Whatever she thinks she’s here to do, she’ll be wasting her time.”“She can try, but she won’t reach you. I’ll intercept her.” Viktor’s tone is steady, his presence a constant reassurance.“At least she isn’t heading for Winona and the kids.”Part of me feels grateful for that, but the rest of me—the part that feels like it’s holding together a house of cards—can’t shake the prickling unease that creeps in whenever my mother is around.What more do I have to do
Last Updated : 2024-11-07Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 397 The DNA Results
(Winona)The envelope the courier just dropped in is in my hands. My hands are buzzing. I have been praying and wishing for these results to make life slightly less complicated.But that’s not how my life generally goes. But I’m determined to hope. There’s more chance Jayden is the father. Law of averages. All I have to do is open it and read what’s inside.My stomach flips and I feel ill. I sit down on the sofa and close my eyes.Please God, let this be the answer I want. The answer I need. The answer my family needs. Just this once. I swear I will never fuck it up again. I finger the envelope, holding all the answers. Finally, I rip it open, my heart pounds as I skim over the words.Positive match.Oh. My. God.There it is, in black and white. Jayden is the father of this baby. We did the impossible again! But will I get to be a mother to this tiny life inside me? How do I cope with the worry and pressure of an impossible pregnancy?The relief crashes over me all the same. Jayden’s
Last Updated : 2024-11-07Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 398 OMG Is This Really Real?
(Winona)I’m waiting for Klara to arrive at the cottage after Lisa has gone to shower and sleep at the estate. Despite me going through the relaxation techniques and even with the positive DNA results, I’m on the edge of a precipice.Once again, my life has gone over a point of no return. It’s unbelievable that I’m pregnant. This had changed everything I thought my life now was.Even with these tests telling me I am pregnant. I can’t get my head around things. I can’t find a way to quiet my mind, and I know I must. It’s vital. But all the calm in the world still doesn’t guarantee the baby will survive. That part may always be out of my hands.Wanting inner calm for the baby’s sake just makes me stress more that I can’t find inner calm. All the other things surrounding this pregnancy haven’t helped. But at least I can take hall pass week and who I had sex with out of contention.Yes, I will tell Jayden one day. But I can certainly pick my battles now and that is a great relief. But pus
Last Updated : 2024-11-08Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 399 A Burden Shared
(Winona)Klara’s calm voice continues, “experience has shown me what can be done to help women in challenging pregnancies. We have many tools at our disposal to support you physically, emotionally, and mentally.”I watch her hands as she unpacks a small notebook. “In addition, I’ve included exercises for positive mindsets—proven ways to center the mind, keep fears in check, and foster a strong connection with the baby.”“I’m so afraid to have a strong connection with the baby.”“I understand. But I do see you have a strong connection with all your children. So, I think this will happen anyway.”“It’s actually something I pride myself on. I’m not the biological mother of three of them but they are my children just as much as Abby is. I feel that.”“Yes, this is a choice we make. You will continue to make those choices. Even if this baby is not for this world, you try and you give it your all. That is what gets you through the dark days.”“Yes. Because knowing I did my very best is so m
Last Updated : 2024-11-08Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 400 Distraction
(Judy)I saunter in, heels clicking against the marble floor, and spot Viktor waiting for me at the reception area outside the boardroom Jayden’s holed up in.He’s all muscle and menace, his arms crossed over his chest like a sentry guarding a fortress. I’m going to rattle his cage a little. Girl’s gotta have some fun.I stride up to him like an old friend. “Viktor! How wonderful!. I hope you aren’t missing that traitor Gus too much… Guess that asshole finally got what he deserved.”I know that will make him pissed.“Judy,” he greets me as stoically as any mountain. “You need to leave.”I arch an eyebrow, a mock smile curves my lips. “Viktor, you’re not even going to let a mother see her son? How heartless can you be?”I give him my most charming smile. “Viktor, darling, you know I never stay where I’m not wanted.” My gaze flicks to the boardroom door behind him. “But… I’m here for my son.”He doesn’t move, blocking the path to the door completely. “Your son doesn’t want to see you. Y
Last Updated : 2024-11-08Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 401 The Envelope
(Jayden)My desk is littered with documents, files, all growing proof of unfinished business. The investigation team has been in and out of my temporary office all morning, each member adding to the pile of work I can’t seem to escape from.The large, yellow envelopes, print-outs, employee details all add to the mountain of things on my to-do list. I sweep all I can fit into my briefcase along with the rest of Grayson’s paperwork, wanting everything in one place for the flight back to Brussels.It’ll be easier to sift through once I’m settled in the jet, away from this pressure cooker.I glance at my watch. I need to get moving. There’s no time to deal with any of this here; I’ll need the next 24 hours in Brussels to breathe, focus on my family, and help Winona settle the kids into their new school routine.The idea of being home even for just one night is the only thing keeping me sane right now.I get a few key documents I still need to sign off on before I leave and isolate them as
Last Updated : 2024-11-09Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband 402 A Plan Comes Together
(Winona)I’m pacing the family room at the cottage, running through all the last-minute details in my head before Jayden comes home. The kids are excited, and the whole place is buzzing with energy.Even shy, reserved Sarah has been talking a mile a minute, making sure I know she has ‘a million billion things’ to tell her dad when he gets here.You and me both, kiddo.Lisa plops down onto the sofa, a mischievous grin playing at her lips. “You know,” she starts, “instead of drowning Jayden in chaos the moment he walks through the door, maybe you two should have some alone time. The kids will be fine with me for a couple of hours.”I give her a skeptical look. “The kids are dying to see him. We’re a family—this reunion shouldn’t be just about me and Jayden.”“There wouldn’t be kids without you and Jayden, would there. Of course it’s about you and him first.”“I’d feel selfish.”Lisa rolls her eyes, but it’s all in good humor. “Yeah, yeah, family bonding is important and all that. But le
Last Updated : 2024-11-09
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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
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
