My CEO 145
145 Party Planning Peace. (Winona)
Abby sleeps peacefully, her chest rising and falling in a steady rhythm. She's been a trooper through the surgery,
and Dr. Green has just given us the best news we could hope for-she's cthrough with flying colors.
"We'll need to keep her under observation for a couple of weeks," Dr. Green explains, his face alight with a rare
smile. "But if her recovery continues this way, we won't need to consider another operation for at least 12
months. Just monthly check-ups." Relief spreads through me, and tears of joy prick at my eyes. "Thank you, Dr.
Green. That's just the news we needed to hear."
He nods, his expression softening. "She's a strong little girl. Just make sure she takes it easy and follows all the
post-op care instructions."
"We will," Jayden assures him, his hand squeezing mine. "We'll do everything by the book."
As Dr. Green leaves, | look at Jayden, my heart swelling with gratitude and love. "For the first tsince her first
operation | think she's going to be okay."
He pullsinto a gentle hug. "Yes, she is. And so are we."
We've settled into the Brennan wing, where Abby can gain strength under close observation. The atmosphere is
a mix of hospital efficiency and homely comfort, designed to make families feel secure and supported.
Abby's room is bright and cheerful, filled with her favorite toys and books. | can't help but feel optimistic.
She stirs a little and opens her eyes. "Mommy, can we go hsoon?" Her voice is still a little weak.
"Soon, sweetheart," | replied, stroking her hair. "We need to stay here for a bit so Dr. Green can make sure you're
all better."
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Abby nods, "can | have Jello for breakfast again?"
I laugh, "you sure can, Sweety. Anytyou want."
Being grateful doesn't sound enough to describe how I'm feeling not only to have Abby's life safe and sound but
to have my own and Jayden's. Coming so close to death makes you take life in a different stride.
| find myself being thankful for everything. Even when arguing with Jayden, I'd still prefer that than to be visiting
his grave. We'll work it all out. It just takes tWith Judy leaving, Ashlyn locked away. | feel a whole lot safer.
My father has left this city and he's not allowed to cback near me. | really hope he just takes whatever deal
he got for that confession and runs with it.
Abby dozes off again and Jayden heads to the sitting room. An idea takes root in my mind.
"Jayden, | think we should have an engagement party when Abby can chome. A real celebration for
everyone after all the we've been through. It could also be a bon voyage for Gus and Judy."
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145 Party Planning Peace
Jayden's face lights up. "That's a wonderful idea. We all need something to lift our spirits."
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"| think so too," | say, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. "It will be a great morale boost, and it will give us all
something to look forward to. Especially Abby."
| smile as the possibilities develop. "Having all her family and friends in the one room will be fabulous for her.
And let's make it dressy so the ladies can strut their stuff a little."
Jayden nods, his excitement obvious. "Where and when should we have it?"
I lean back, considering the options. "Maybe at the townhouse? We could do it in the garden. It's beautiful this
tof year, and it would be perfect for a celebration. I'll get caterers as | think Anne has enough to worry about
right now." Jayden smiles, clearly on board. "The garden sounds perfect. We could set up fairy lights, have some
music, and make it a night to remember. If that's what you want."
I'm thinking of my friends and family and what's important to me. "I want it to be what we want, not just me. I'm
sorry | overreacted the last tyou planned something."
"No, you were right. | shouldn't have just gone ahead and organized things. It was stupid of me."
"So, Evening wear? For all or just the ladies? | don't want the men feeling too buttoned up and formal, Everyone
needs to be comfortable and relaxed."
"You know what, the men will be fine. You ladies go for it. It's been a long tsince we had a reason to dress
formally. But I'll tell the men that a tux isn't going to cut it, we want to see spersonality and flair."
I grin. "I love that idea, Jayden!"
For the first tin a long while, it feels like we're moving forward, building a future full of hope and joy. "We'll
need a guest list," | say, grabbing my tablet. "Who should we invite?".
| start typing the names of our friends.
"Literally everyone." He grins
"Definitely Gus and Mother," Jayden begins. "Lisa, Lance, Dr. Green, sof the nurses who've been so great
with Abby..."
I nod, jotting down names. "And Phillip?" I'm not killing this buzz by assuming anything.
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"Of course," Jayden agrees. "He's been a good friend to you and he's a father figure to Abby."
| glance up, feeling a rush of love Jayden. "This is going to be amazing, Jayden. We deserve this."
"Yes, we do," he says, taking my hand. "It's tto celebrate our love, our family and friends, and our future."
We spend the next few days making calls, sending out invitations, and planning every detail. The excitement is
infectious, and Abby perks up every twe discuss the party. "Can | wear a princess dress, Mommy?" she asks,
her eyes wide with anticipation.
145 Party Planning Peace
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"Of course, you can," | say, smiling. "We'll find the prettiest princess dress for you. You can try every single dress
in this city."
Jayden laughs, his eyes sparkling. "You'll be the belle of the ball, Abby."
"I don't want to be a bell." Abby pouts. "I want to be a princess."
"You're already a ding-dong so you'd make a good bell Jayden teases her.
She playfully sticks out her tongue at him and he ruffled her hair. "The Belle of the Ball is the most beautiful
princess there. | think that will definitely be you."
"What about Mommy? She's beautiful too."
"She sure is. I'm the luckiest Daddy in the whole world,
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