My CEO 218

217 The Decision

(Winona)

Every time I've been at this hospital it's been in fear of the life of someone I love dearly. Abby, Jayden, Mom.

Now, I'm walking back into that same uncertainty, but this time it's about a life that hasn't even begun yet. I see Jayden ahead, his tall frame standing rigid, his eyes focused on the floor. He looks like a man ready for battle, and in a way, he is, "Jayden," I call out as I approach. His head snaps up, and the tension in his face softens just a bit when he sees me.

"Winona," he replies, his voice thick with emotions he's trying to keep in check. He pulls me into a quick hug, his arms strong and protective around me. "Thanks for coming."

"Of course," I say, leaning into him for just a moment, taking some of his strength for myself, "What's the situation?"

"They're prepping Ashlyn for the emergency c-section," he explains, his voice steady but laced with worry.

I nod, trying to absorb the gravity of the situation. "Do they know if the baby will be okay?"

He shakes his head. "They don't know anything yet. The doctor said we have some time to decide if we want to be in the room during the delivery."

Jayden's words hang in the air, and I feel a wave of uncertainty wash over me. Being in the room during the delivery... I don't know if that's where I should be. I mean, Ashlyn and I were anything but close.

Is it right to be there when I know once the baby is out, they'll be making an awful decision?

Is it my place?

"What do you think?" I ask, trying to gauge his feelings.

something happens... I need to be there. I can't let our baby come into this world alone. Or go out of

throat tightening. "I don't know, Jayden. I want to support you, but... I'm scared. What if something goes wrong? What if what if you lose the baby? I'm not

the operating theater is held up for

the inevitable decision. "How did the board meeting go? Did you have enough time to tell them

won't believe what just happened at the office. You

"What do you mean?" Is he going to say he changed his mind

a hand through his hair. "Greg's secret

#25 BONUS

217 The BecINION

heard him right. "What the actual hell are you talking

another marriage, another country, Cuba," Jayden confirms, his expression still carrying the weight. of the surprise. "He had a wife and kids there. They came to the office this morning, saying they have

"I gave them what is rightfully

gave them the

theirs anyway. I'm not even

have any

idea. Not my circus, not

"And Judy?"

shares too. I do wish I could be a

I'm stunned."

"I'm free."

process the information. "Why now? How long have they known? And why

They didn't even know Greg as Greg Brennan. Apparently, they had no idea who he really was until recently. Maria, the wife, said they were just as shocked as

much younger than me.

"This is unbelievable."

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