My CEO 203

203 Atoning The Past (Jayden)

I move closer to Ashlyn's bed. I'm not here to wallow in self-pity or be overwhelmed by emotions. This is about making sure my child survives. I look at Ashlyn's pale face, and I feel a surge of determination. I'll do whatever it takes. "You're not going anywhere," I murmur as I touch her abdomen. "You've got a life ahead of you, and I'm. going to make damn sure you get to live it. Your mom wants you to live, so that's what you're going to do. Live." The door opens again.

I straighten up and look. A suited man has his head in the doorway. "My Brennan. Can we talk? I'm Detective Harris. I'm investigating what has happened at the facility today."

"Yes, of course." I walk out to the corridor with him. "So, you're investigating Ashlyn Carter's,

He turns to me, sizing me up. "I am."

"Is this internal or external?"

"External. Why?"

"I don't want any cover ups."

"Do you think the facility needs to cover up anything?"

"I don't know, maybe. But that's your job to find out, isn't it."

"Yes. Do you mind answering some questions?"

"No problem but I'd prefer to have my lawyer present."

"I see. That seems a little paranoid."

I shrug. "I don't believe for a second that this was an accident."

slightly. "Right now, we're gathering

fall?

to be with Ashlyn, with the baby. Can we book a time with my lawyer at

leaning in slightly, my voice low and intense. "Ashlyn wouldn't do this on purpose. Not with the baby." "From what I've

wanted this baby to

professional. I'll call you tomorrow with a time, but can you come to my

203 Atoning The Past

+25 BONUS

good. I'll

me. I'm angry-no,

my

judgment. If she has done this to Ashlyn, to

hesitant. "I don't know if you can hear me, but I need to say some things. Things I should've

out, covering it with mine. It feels cold, lifeless, and it only makes the words harder

didn't want to see that

the son she wanted me to be. But I was wrong. I was so wrong. I realize now, I never wanted to be that son. I'd broken away from her and she

"I loved you, Ashlyn. I did. But then.... then I saw Winona's photo online, and everything

hand, hoping that somehow that will help her hear what I

a wave crashing over me, and I didn't know how to handle it. I started remembering

for any sign that she

change what I felt for Winona. It was always there, deep down, and it just

the part I played in all the crap that's happened over the years. I should've been

"Thank you for wanting our baby to live, despite

do whatever it takes to make sure this baby lives. This

are wet and I

loved them so much they would sacrifice their right to be a mother to them so they could have the best life possible. I

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