Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband by Anney GW

470 Taking Charge

(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? Cass is trouble. You know that."

"Don't tell me what I know about my sister. Just keep out of her life and we won't have any problems."

"I'll go organize the refreshments, shall I?" Her English is almost perfect but there is still her accent showing through. She turns and walks off.

I get the feeling that she is a whole lot smarter than anyone gives her credit for. But I have other things to deal with now and I'm not adding any extras to my stress list.

***

In the boardroom, I stand before the management team. Lance's team sits together near the center, their expressions a mixture of grief and determination.

Judy's key people flank the edges, their posture stiff and guarded. All eyes are on me.

"Thank you for being here," I begin, my voice steady despite the knot in my stomach. "I know the recent developments have been devastating. Lance and Judy's loss has left a void that's hard to fill."

and his dedication to all of you were unmatched. And Judy... She demanded excellence because she

few heads nod, and I feel a spark of confidence

support, whatever that looks like. If you need counseling, resources, or just someone to talk to, we'll make sure you have it. I'll set

the room. Judy's PA raises

reply. "Until Jayden gets back, I'll be here overseeing operations. Come to me with anything, even if it isn't related to the situation with Judy and Lance. We ask, in return, that you refrain from speaking to the

of its foundational people. Friends to many here. Everyone will be fully supported

there's a moment of silence before the room erupts in quiet applause. It's

to file out, I step into the hallway. The relief is short-lived as Phillip approaches, his smile as infuriatingly

done," he

here for personal chit-chat, Phillip. Keep it professional,

softly, as though my words amuse him. "Professional, sure. Well, Judy is gone. That

stop walking and

my pulse spiking.

his

There's nothing to be happy about as far as

concerned."

have you here, you should know, Jayden knows about

for

thank Judy for that. But

of cool indifference slipping back into place. "So what does

here

ensure a smooth transition

contributions, but as your

here was