474 Preparing For Home

(Jayden)

The clock on my desk blinks 12:47 AM, but the late hour doesn't register anymore.

I've spent the last few hours in calls and emails, trying to coordinate everything: the will readings, the services, the logistics of leaving Nexus Global in capable hands while I head back to the States.

I hit call on Viktor's number, knowing he'll be awake. He always seems awake. I wonder if he's actually human sometimes.

"Jayden," Viktor answers on the second ring, his voice sharp and alert. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing's wrong," I say quickly. "I need to talk to you about Nexus. I'm flying back to the States soon, and I need someone I can trust to hold things down while I'm gone."

There's a brief pause, then a low chuckle. "You're not serious."

"Dead serious."

"Jayden," Viktor says evenly, "I don't run billion-dollar companies. I handle security, strategy, and occasionally beating people to a pulp if they get too close."

"You also know Nexus Global inside out," I counter. "You've been in the trenches with Gus and with me. You know how this place operates, and you know the stakes better than anyone. Hell, I'd never have done it if it wasn't for your guidance." "That doesn't mean I can run it."

"It means you can keep the damn thing from falling apart for a couple of weeks," I snap, frustration creeping into my voice. "Just manage it while I'm gone. Make sure nothing critical slips through the cracks."

His voice is back to being my employee and not my friend. "If they are your instructions, I will follow them."

"I wouldn't ask if I didn't know you could handle it."

There's silence on the other end for a moment, then Viktor says, "I'll pick you up at 7am, so you should sleep."

"Yeah, I'm beat. Night Viktor." I disconnect the call and head for the shower.

***

dial Winona's number. It rings longer than usual

it must be 2am there," she

to sleep," I say. "Just finalizing everything before I leave. The

flying out?" she

Viktor to hold things together

"Smart choice," she says.

think he thought so, but you know Viktor,

a skill I wish

going on, Winona?" I ask. I can tell by her voice

shifting in her seat. "I had a hospital check-in today. My blood pressure was elevated.

precautionary. They didn't find anything

"You should've called me."

her tone defensive. "But Lisa came and got me,

need to tell me. You know that, right?

"I don't need you second-guessing every decision

I have a right to know what's happening

sharp intake of

this baby safe. You know that. You being

so far away. Of course I'm

be here soon enough," she replies, her tone still cool. "In

I counter,

to fight

just... I want to make

everything is okay."

voice quieter now. "Really. If

stop breathing down

you ready for the will readings?" she

admit. "But it needs

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