My CEO 212

212 The Right Decisions

(Jayden)

I take a deep breath before answering. "Brennan," I say, my voice steady, even though my stomach is in

knots.

"Mr. Brennan, this is Dr. Mitchell. I wanted to give you an update on Ashlyn and the baby."

I hold my breath, waiting for the worst. "Go ahead."

"The baby's condition remains stable. No changes today, which is good news. We're continuing to monitor closely, but for now, everything is holding steady."

Relief washes over me. "Thank you, Doctor, I appreciate the update."

"You're welcome. We'll keep you informed of any changes. There's no need for you to be here tonight if you choose to stay home."

"Thanks," I say again before ending the call. I stare at the phone in my hand, letting the relief sink in. "The baby's still okay." I tell Winona who is looking on, concerned. "Oh, thank goodness. That's great news, Jayden."

"I think I'll stay here tonight. Doc says I'm not needed there."

"It's up to you. I get it if you feel you need to be at the hospital."

"Maybe for a check in. But then I'll come back."

My phone buzzes again. This time it's Lance. Winona nods as I answer and she heads off to the kitchen.

"Lance, what's up?" He shouldn't still be at work at this time of the evening.

"Jayden," Lance's voice is tense, "I just got off the phone with the board. They're insisting on a meeting first thing this morning. They're saying your presence is mandatory:"

I roll my eyes. "Of course they are. They're probably losing their shit because I haven't been around."

"Pretty much," Lance confirms. "You're all over the media again. They've got questions. They've heard rumors about your commitment, and they want answers. They don't like being kept in the dark." 200

"Well, they're about to get their answers," I say, my voice hardening.

Lance asks, though

tell them my shares are up for grabs," I say firmly. "I'm done with this. I've got a growing family to think about,

slow breath. "I figured that's where you were headed. But have you thought about who you're selling to? The

"You're giving up couch-surfing?"

somewhere bigger to live. Stop changing the subject. Will I

+25 BONUS

212 Tim Right Decisions

unemployed tomorrow?"

it," I admit, running a hand through my hair. "I don't want to let down my employees. I owe

surprised you've considered us, to

"I'm not that bad."

"Well..."

do something with them. Someone who knows the company inside and out." "Who?" Lance asks, suspicion

"My mother."

she was running the place. I mean you

weren't talking to

no contact order

"Shit. That's drastic."

me killed

always overreact. Anyway, back to

keeps her out of my life, and it guarantees that the people who've been loyal to me, like you, keep their jobs." "It's

It's a calculated risk."

"What will you do?"

stay-at-home dad for a

loud at this. "Ahhh, cool joke, Bro. No

""I'm serious."

more of an idiot than

for the

idea what you're doing with people let alone

"I'll learn."

much, but I sure feel sorry for yours right now. I mean they poop and

73

212 The Right Decisions

+25 BONUS

an expert on that countless

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255