(Winona)Just after lunch on Monday, Klara is on the cottage doorstep. The kids are in lessons at the estate and I’m reading through all the future suggestions Jayden emailed me on the front porch.She’s balancing a large, rustic basket on her arm. She smiles warmly, setting it down on the wooden table with a soft thud. The assortment of jars, oils, and fresh produce inside exudes an earthy and comforting scent.“Some of the best we have—jams, honey, cheeses, and some of my own oils and remedies. Viktor mentioned Jayden wanted to thank me for the welcome basket I sent you, so I thought there better be one here when he got back.”“It’s perfect,” I say, touching a jar of dark amber honey. “Thank you, Klara.”She inclines her head, but I notice her gaze flicker briefly to her handbag, her expression turning slightly more serious.She reaches into her bag and pulls out a small envelope, setting it on the table between us. My heart starts pounding as I look at it, dreading what it might co
(Winona)Two more days. I can handle two days of this secret, can’t I? Jayden is coming back tomorrow. He may have to head back soon but he’ll be here when I find out.I can tell him in person at least.My phone buzzes, jolting me back to the present. It’s a message from Lisa.Just landed! Can’t wait to see you, girl!Relief and a sliver of happiness wash over me. Lisa’s here, my rock. I type back quickly, letting her know the driver will be waiting for her.A short while later, the doorbell rings, and I hurry to open it. She bounds in, grinning, suitcases rolling beside her.“Well, this so-called cottage is huge! But what is that behemoth the car drove past?”“That is Gus’s estate. Gifted to him by the royal family of Brussels. I suspect they needed somewhere more maintenance free.” I grin.“I am going to love staying there. Queen Lisa, if you please. Offfff with their heads!”We both burst out laughing. She pulls me into a warm hug.“Oh, I’m so glad you’re here,” I murmur, squeezing
(Winona)As we step into the grand entry hall, the sheer opulence of the estate has Lisa’s jaw dropping and Lance running a hand over the polished marble walls, his eyes wide.Staff are stationed at every corner, poised and ready to cater to our every need. For once, I let it happen. I know Lisa and Lance will enjoy being treated like royalty.“Would you like some canapés prepared, ma’am?” a well-dressed server inquires with a respectful nod.Lisa perks up. “Canapés? Yes, please! And a glass of bubbly wouldn’t hurt.”“Sparkling water for me,” I add, smiling. “And whatever Lance wants.”“Beer,” he grins, clearly taken aback by the attention. “Whatever the local drop is. Ice-cold and keep them coming. If that’s okay?”The staff nod and disappear into the kitchen to fetch our requests, and I notice Lisa practically bouncing beside me, loving the special treatment.Lance looks like a kid in a candy store, wandering around in awe of every detail from the frescoed ceilings to the antique fu
(Winona)I’m tidying up the cottage, trying to distract myself from the waiting game, when I hear footsteps approaching. I turn to see Lance leaning against the doorframe, arms crossed. I raise an eyebrow, surprised to see him here without Lisa.“Lance?” I say, “What’s up? I thought you’d be sleeping.”He shrugs, pushing off the door and strolling over with that half-grin of his. “Figured we could catch up… without Lisa.”His tone has an edge to it, and something in his gaze tells me this isn’t just a casual visit. I feel a little spark of dread ignite in my stomach.“Alone? Why?” I ask, folding my arms, though I already have a feeling where this might be going.“Cut the act, Winona,” he says, dropping onto the couch across from me. “I wasn’t actually using the bathroom earlier. I was… listening.”My stomach flips, and I try to keep my face neutral, but I know I’m a terrible liar. I should’ve known Lance would catch on; he’s known me too long.“Listening to what, exactly?” I say, feig
(Cass)I pull my jacket on. Ziggy leans against the counter, arms crossed, his face a mix of disappointment and frustration.“What the fuck is an extended break anyway? Fucking stupid,” I spit out.“It’s the next step of being fired. You were late again. Third time this week.” His voice is quiet but firm, and it cuts through me, hitting harder than I want to admit.I shrug, forcing a smirk, trying to make it seem like I don’t care, like this doesn’t sting as much as it does.“Yeah, whatever. It’s just a few minutes here and there. Not the end of the world, right?” My tone is flippant, but Ziggy’s not having it. He doesn’t even try to soften his expression. “Heads up their fucking asses.”“It was thirty minutes, today, Cass. Then you’re busted smoking pot before you started your shift late, Cass. During a shift. I give up.” He sighs, running a hand through his hair. “This isn’t you. I thought—”“Thought what?” I snap, standing a little straighter. “That I’d be perfect? I didn’t sign up
(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
(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
(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
(Winona)Lisa sits curled into the corner of her couch, her legs tucked beneath her and a blanket draped across her lap.“So, one reading down, one to go,” I say, setting two mugs on the coffee table and taking a seat in the armchair across from her. “Are you ready?” She looks up, blinking like she’s coming out of a daze. “Yeah, well... I don’t think I can be there. It’s still too much.” “Fair.” I lean forward, wrapping my hands around the warm mug. “I know it’s hard. But it’s a start, you know? A start to getting on the other side of all this.” She shrugs.“I’ll be right by your side.”Lisa exhales slowly, tugging the blanket tighter. “It’s just... everything. The way it happened. The way he let me in and really loved me for those few days. The way he left. And now this reading, like it’s going to somehow tie up all the loose ends. But it won’t, will it? Nothing changes that he’s gone.” I nod, letting her words hang in the air for a moment. “No, it doesn’t change that. But it mig
(Winona)The law office is still and cold, a contrast to the storm of emotions brewing inside me. Jayden sits beside me, his jaw set, shoulders tight with the tension he’s carried for days.I can tell he’s ready for this to be over but also bracing for whatever last hand Judy might play.“You okay?” I whisper. He doesn’t answer at first, his stare fixed on the polished table.“No,” he finally says. “But let’s get it done.”Mr. Carter, the lawyer, clears his throat and adjusts his glasses. “Thank you all for being here. We are gathered for the reading of the final will and testament of Judith Ann Brennan.”Jayden shifts in his chair, his knee bouncing with restless energy. I can feel the heat of his frustration, but I keep my hands to myself. No comfort from me is going to land right at this moment.“This will was last amended six months ago,” Carter continues. “Mrs. Brennan made several significant changes, which we will now outline. Copies of the full document will be provided afterw
(Jayden)The elevator dings, and the penthouse opens up before me. This used to be my happy place. Where I could unwind and take in the city lights with a nightcap or three. Before kids.Now it looks like an executive man cave with a family shoved in.I was an idiot for pushing that idea. There’s a crooked home-made banner saying Welcome Daddy, and a tray of icing and sprinkle laden cupcakes on the side table. My heart surges.A chorus of voices breaks through. “Daddy!” Abby’s little feet pound the hardwood floor as she barrels toward me, her arms wide and her face split into a grin. She wraps herself around my leg like a koala. “You’re early!”“Hey, princess,” I say, lifting her up as Bobby and Sarah rush in right behind her. Bobby grabs my middle in a tight hug, and Sarah hovers just slightly back, smiling shyly. “I sure am. Surprise!”“Missed you, Dad,” she says softly.“I missed you too, kiddo,” I reply, wrapping my free arm around her.Winona’s voice carries from the living room,
(Jayden)The clock on my desk blinks 12:47 AM, but the late hour doesn’t register anymore.I’ve spent the last few hours in calls and emails, trying to coordinate everything: the will readings, the services, the logistics of leaving Nexus Global in capable hands while I head back to the States.I hit call on Viktor’s number, knowing he’ll be awake. He always seems awake. I wonder if he’s actually human sometimes.“Jayden,” Viktor answers on the second ring, his voice sharp and alert. “What’s wrong?”“Nothing’s wrong,” I say quickly. “I need to talk to you about Nexus. I’m flying back to the States soon, and I need someone I can trust to hold things down while I’m gone.”There’s a brief pause, then a low chuckle. “You’re not serious.”“Dead serious.”“Jayden,” Viktor says evenly, “I don’t run billion-dollar companies. I handle security, strategy, and occasionally beating people to a pulp if they get too close.”“You also know Nexus Global inside out,” I counter. “You’ve been in the tre
(Winona)The hospital release is a relief, but it doesn’t wipe away the worry. By the time Lisa arrives, I’m eager to get back to the penthouse.“You look awful,” Lisa says, her tone blunt as ever, but there’s concern in her eyes.“Gee, Thanks, Lisa. That’s exactly what I needed to hear.” I grin.“Hey, at least you’re walking out of here,” she retorts, falling into step beside me. “So, what’s the verdict?”“Blood pressure’s back down, no signs of infection or anything. But they told me to call if I feel anything even slightly off.” I know they think I’ll lose this baby and it makes me feel a little hopeless.“Good,” she says, nudging me with her elbow. “You’re not exactly known for taking it easy.”I glance at her, surprised by her willingness to show up. “Thanks for coming. Did you watch the USB?”“No. Not yet. I just can’t,” she says quickly. “But I needed to get out of the apartment anyway. Sitting there being angry about Lance wasn’t doing me any favors. He did what he did, and I
(Winona)It’s been months since Henry was discharged from Neonatal, but the memories of sleepless nights, anxious conversations, and cautious hope are still fresh. Now here I am again but for my own pregnancy.Nurse Ellen Mitchell spots me first. “Winona Brennan!” she greets with a wide smile, her sharp eyes immediately scanning me like a mother hen. “Europe didn’t steal you away permanently, huh? Is Henry okay?”I laugh softly. “He is thriving. I’m here for… me, this time.”Ellen nods and squeezes my arm in support, gesturing toward the exam room. “We got you. Dr. Harris and Dr. Reeves are ready. Let’s see how you’re holding up.”Inside, the doctor’s room feels like it always did with Nurse Casey Ramirez prepping the equipment. “Look who it is,” she says with a grin. “Our favorite mama. How’s Henry? Still dazzling the world?”I smile, relaxing a little. “He’s doing great. Eats like a trucker and sleeps like an angel when he’s not too busy chasing after Bobby’s cat.”These ladies were
(Jayden)The phone rings just as I finish my third coffee of the morning. I glance at the caller ID: Unknown.But I know it’s Gus. I take a deep breath. This is going to be challenging. I answer, keeping my tone even. “Jayden Brennan.” “Jayden,” Gus replies. “Awful news. I can hardly imagine what you’re going through.” “I’m managing. There’s a lot to get through.” “Yes. Have they released the bodies yet?” “Just waiting on final paperwork, so probably tomorrow. How are you?” “Shit,” he admits, and the bluntness catches me off guard. “Judy’s gone, and I can’t quite believe it.”He exhales. “My biggest regret is not making us a family all that time ago. And now she’s just… gone.” I let the silence stretch, unsure how to respond.“I tried to fix things recently,” Gus continues. “Hoped I could. But Judy played me as much as she played everyone else. She loved me, yes, but she was never going to stop punishing me.” “She knew what she was doing, Gus,” I say. “She manipulated everyo
(Winona)“It’s not,” I admit, keeping my tone neutral. “But it’s important. I have a lot of friends and colleagues here. The deaths and the media surrounding them will have a profound effect on morale. Not to mention investor confidence.”Mia raises an eyebrow. “Investor confidence? Bold of you to assume that’s a concern you need to handle. My family owns half of Brennan Industries. It’s our legacy, and we won’t be giving it up anytime soon.”I hold her gaze, unflinching. “You can hash that out with Jayden. And Mia? Don’t think I’m as easy to manipulate as my sister.”Her smile falters slightly, replaced by something colder. “How is Cass? She disappeared it seems. I was worried.”“Cass is just fine, thanks. She’s safe and well.” I’m not mentioning exactly where Cass is. I don’t trust Mia. “No thanks to you. Getting her involved in drug selling.”“That had nothing to do with me. Cass got herself into her own mess. She wouldn’t listen to me. Why do you think Gabriel got out when he did?
(Winona)The phone buzzes on the counter, Jayden’s name flashes on the screen. It’s been a few hours since we last spoke, and he sounded strained then. I swipe to answer. “Jayden,” I say, “everything okay?” “Not exactly, I need a favor.” “Of course. What’s going on?” He exhales, and I can hear the faint clatter of papers in the background. “I need you to go to Brennan Industries. Talk to the employees. Offer them some support after everything that’s happened with Lance and Judy.” My stomach tightens at the mention of Judy. The entire feud between us has been splashed across every media outlet forever. Everyone at Brennan Industries knew, and they’d seen the fallout.“Why me?” I ask cautiously. “Because you’ve worked with them,” Jayden says. “You’re respected there. They deserve some support because everyone loved Lance and Judy was a well-respected CEO despite her side game with us.” “Jayden, they know about everything between Judy and me. What if they think I’m just showing up