Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband by Anney GW

478 Taking the Reins

(Jayden)

My driver pulls up outside Brennan Industries, and I step out, the morning air biting against my skin.

Lance's absence is a void that's both personal and professional, and the tension in my shoulders feels like it's pulling me apart. He was the best and matching him won't be easy. But Lance had something here that is hard to find. He cared about his work and his colleagues.

Lance was never in it for the money. His money came from his parents. But he wanted to be a part of something and belong somewhere and Brennan Industries was that for him.

Inside, the lobby is busy but there's a definite subdued energy. This speaks volumes about the morale of the staff. Mother and Lance both leave a huge gap and it's my job now to bridge that.

As I walk through, people greet me with polite nods and murmured "Good mornings." Their eyes follow me, probably trying to gauge how things will change now that I'm back.

I reach the top floor boardroom, the management team is already gathered and seated. The conversations hush as I walk in, their faces turning to me with a mix of anticipation and unease.

"Good morning," I say as I take my seat at the head of the table. I stay calm and measured, trying to lead by example. But that isn't how I feel inside.

Mia sits near the end of the table, closest to me, her posture poised and self-assured. I catch her watching me closely. She's young and hungry, I get that. But if she thinks I'm just handing her control on a silver platter, she's wrong. She hasn't earned my trust, and I don't have the luxury of giving it freely.

"Let's get started," I continue. "As you all know, the past weeks have been... difficult. Lance's passing left us with a significant gap in financial leadership. Judy's loss has caused ructions with our main investors, and we need to stabilize quickly." The room is silent except for the faint hum of the air conditioning. I scan the faces around the table, taking in the gravity of their expressions.

"Effective immediately," I say, "I will handle the CFO responsibilities on an interim basis while we look for a permanent replacement."

There's a ripple of acknowledgment, though a few of them exchange glances.

Mia clears her throat, drawing my attention. "If I may, Mr. Brennan," she begins, her tone smooth but firm. "I've been closely involved with operations under Judy's guidance, and Lance's. I could take on some of the CFO duties, at least temporarily."

I lean back in my chair, keeping my expression neutral. "No. I barely know you and your skill level can only be entry level at best. I will advertise the position and conduct interviews."

"Judy-"

raise my voice, "am not Judy. Your position here is predominantly a paid intern and work sponsorship visa. I will honor that sponsorship, unless you choose

keep her composure. "I'll remain," she says,

place for several months. Please take full advantage at this difficult time. Now, we'll work through any

through the department updates, and I listen carefully, taking notes where necessary. By the time the meeting wraps up, I have a

seems like child's play. I realize

out, Mia lingers, her gaze fixed

"Something else?" I ask.

her arms. "I'm just trying to understand why I'm being sidelined. I've proven my

assumptions. You may bear the Brennan surname, but you and I are strangers. It takes

you have, but I

had control over every aspect

see a lot more from you

for the positions and be vetted

same as

any other candidate."

can speak. Phillip strolls in, a box tucked

news about Judy and Lance though. It's hard to believe. How are you holding

blood boils instantly. Like I'm going to chit-chat with him. Just seeing him is enough to stir up

and he leans against the table, setting the box down. "Still touchy, I see. Let me guess you're not over the photos yet? Judy really did a number on you

between us, her

say sharply, not taking

the room,

his

it. Seeing those photos must have been... unpleasant. But let's not act like this is all on me. You gave her the freedom, Jayden. She

step toward him, my hands clenching at

it had been strangers? Men she didn't trust, didn't know? Or is it worse knowing she turned to people who actually care about her?" His words hit a nerve, and

no idea what you're

be honest-you're mad because you can't control this. She made

my voice dropping. "Say one more