469 Jayden’s Request

(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 to... I don't know, gloat?"

He snorts softly. "Anyone who knows you, knows better than that. Mia's not equipped for this. She's too inexperienced and also from another country. And I'm definitely not leaving something as sensitive as this up to Phillip." Shit. Okay. Fair point I guess.

"The employees need support, they may need professional services or time off. I know you can facilitate all of that. But, only if you don't feel it's adding pressure for you and the baby."

"Okay. I'll go. I think being involved like that actually helps my stress levels anyway."

"Thank you," he says, relief evident in his tone. "I know it's a lot to ask."

"How are things on your end?"

Lawyers, funeral directors, and making sure Nexus is okay

the USB? Have you watched

voice tightening. "Did you watch

but also gave me some peace." I admit, hoping that doesn't sound awful. "I'll

too. He doesn't make it easy, but did he ever?"

find a way to

Industries you make it happen. Money is no object here. Winona, you are the best number cruncher we have. I need you to make sure Mia is handling the funds appropriately or find someone you trust

I'm CEO again. She left it to me. I don't want it, but for now, what I say goes. I say you are acting in my stead until I arrive and I'm emailing legal documents saying as much right

fine. I promise. You just get yourself here as soon as

"Call me after, okay?"

will. Take

***

races with memories of Lance, Judy, and the

with smiles and hellos, and some level of caution

are going through the motions until

through the lobby towards reception, I'm aware of the

Phillip near

fet

talking with Mia. His gaze locks on mine, and

annoyance, maybe

over. Mia

"Phillip," I reply evenly.

do we owe the pleasure?" he asks, his tone

he hasn't checked his

asked me to come. To support the employees. It's been a rough week. He's sent an email to

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