Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband novel Chapter 444

(Jayden)

“Jayden,” she greets warmly as I approach the table. “You look well.”

“Thanks, Mother,” I reply with a smile, leaning in to kiss her cheek. “You look as perfect as ever. Still setting the standard.”

She beams at the compliment, her eyes studying me closely. “Flattery, Jayden? You must want something.”

I laugh lightly as I take my seat. “Do I need a reason to compliment you? You’re my mother. It’s been too long.”

Her expression softens slightly, but I can tell her mind is working overtime. Judy doesn’t take things at face value.

The waiter appears, pouring wine for us both.

“I took the liberty of ordering ahead. Like old times. This wine I discovered on my travels here. It’s excellent.”

I lift the glass, swirling it absently. “To new beginnings,” I say, raising it toward her.

Judy’s lips curl into a satisfied smile, and she clinks her glass against mine. “To new beginnings.”

“You’re settling into London nicely, I hope?” she asks, taking a delicate sip of wine.

“It’s been productive,” I reply. “All of this with Grayson is unfortunate. But that’s almost over with now.”

“You just never know who you can trust, do you? But you can always trust me to have your best interests at heart.”

“I know that. But there is a fine line between that and interfering, Mother. My life is my life. You can only be a part of it if you don’t try and run it.”

“Understood. I’ve learned my lesson, Jayden. I won’t be overbearing again.”

Yeah right, like I’m believing that.

“I won’t hesitate to cut you from my life again if you do. Your choice. I’ve done it with Winona and I’ll do it with you.”

“I’ve no intentions of us parting again.”

“You were right about Winona and I,” I concede. “It was inevitable.”

“I’ve only ever wanted your happiness.”

“We’re good at parenting together, good at being friends but we’ve realized we’re not good for each other in a relationship.” I shrug. “I’ve made my peace with it.”

“Have you, really?” she asks, tilting her head.

“I have,” I say firmly, meeting her gaze. “This isn’t a decision I made lightly, but it’s the right one. For everyone. And it’s final.”

Her smile widens. “I knew you’d see sense, Jayden. You have so much potential, so much to offer the world. Being tied to someone like Winona... well, she was always holding you back.”

Internally, I bristle at her words, but I keep my tone calm. “She’s a good mother, Judy. That’s all that matters to me right now. The kids will always have my support and undivided attention.”

“I disagree, especially after what she’s done with Lance and Phillip,” she says, her voice sharpening. “Let’s not pretend she’s the ideal fit for raising Abby and Henry. You should consider what’s truly best for them.”

I pretend to listen and take her advice. “What are you suggesting?”

“Custody, of course,” she says smoothly. “The two youngest are yours, your legacy. Bobby and Sarah—well, they belong with Winona. You shouldn’t burden yourself with children who aren’t truly your responsibility.”