Everything Taken I Left to Become CEO (Darcy and Zane) novel Chapter 19

**TITLE: Pain Refines the Soul — Jason Brooks 19**
**Chapter 19: Rising Tensions**

091

+5 Pearls

As the thought crossed her mind, Olena swiftly settled herself beside Viktor, her fingers gently kneading the tension from his shoulders. “It’s all because you taught him so well. He’s absorbed everything from you, like a sponge soaking up water,” she remarked, her voice laced with admiration.

Viktor took her delicate hand in his, feeling the warmth radiate from her skin. “You’re the one who deserves the accolades, Olena. I’ve always been too caught up in work. You’ve poured your heart and soul into raising him. You’ve put in the hard work all these years,” he replied, his tone earnest as he looked into her eyes, hoping to convey the depth of his gratitude.

When Zane and his mother were younger, life had thrown them many challenges. Viktor often reflected on those days, a heavy sense of guilt settling in his chest whenever he thought about the struggles they faced.

Bringing them into the Vance Manor had been a decision filled with mixed emotions. He had hoped to provide a better life for them, and now, witnessing his son’s success blossoming before his eyes filled him with a profound sense of satisfaction and pride.

The three of them shared a cozy dinner, laughter and warmth enveloping the table like a comforting blanket.

After the meal, Zane drove back to his modest apartment near the company, the hum of the engine echoing his thoughts.

Once he stepped inside, he shrugged off his jacket, letting it fall carelessly onto a nearby chair, and made his way to the fridge, thirst gnawing at him. But as he opened the door, disappointment washed over him — it was completely empty.

He had always been averse to having strangers invade his personal space, which was why he had never employed a live-in housekeeper.

Initially, Darcy had made time in her busy schedule to come over, taking care of cleaning, laundry, and even stocking the fridge with groceries.

But as the demands of their work grew, she had opted for a part-time cleaner who came three times a week, focusing solely on cleaning and laundry. The grocery shopping, however, remained firmly in Darcy’s hands.

She had a particular way of doing things, believing that no one else could choose the right items for their home; her selections were the only acceptable ones.

Zane leaned against the kitchen counter, his handsome features darkening as he pondered.

It feels like Darcy hasn’t been here in ages.

He rubbed his temples, feeling the weight of her absence pressing down on him. Reluctantly, he turned on the tap, filling a glass with water and grimacing slightly at the taste.

After downing the glass, he sank into the sofa, laptop perched on his knees, ready to dive into work. Yet, his gaze drifted to two small teddy bear plushies nestled on the couch.

He pulled them into his embrace, a bittersweet smile tugging at his lips.

Darcy had picked them out, a reminder of her thoughtful touch in his life.

Most of the decor in this apartment bore her influence. When he had first acquired the place, his intention had been purely functional — a place to sleep, devoid of any personal flair.

It was Darcy who had seen it differently. She had walked in, her eyes sparkling with ideas, and declared it cold and impersonal. With her unique eye for aesthetics, she had transformed the space into a home, filling it with warmth and character.

Darcy…

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10:09 Tue, Dec 16

**Chapter 19: Rising Tensions**

It feels like I haven’t seen her in forever.

Her mother’s illness must be quite serious, for her to be neglecting even him.

There was a time when she pursued him with relentless determination, always seeking his company.

Zane retrieved his phone, his fingers instinctively scrolling to Darcy’s name in his contacts.

He hesitated, staring down at the screen as he massaged his temples again.

Settling down, he noticed a new message on WhatsApp. A smirk crept onto his lips as he read it.

His former colleague now worked at Easemark Ventures, and Jax had cleverly inquired about the tender details.

10:09 Tue, Dec 16

**Chapter 19: Rising Tensions**

91

+5 Pearls

He learned that Easemark was taking this bid very seriously. Companies across the industry were vying for the opportunity, including the sector unicorn, SummitCore Tech.

Most importantly, the new VP at SummitCore Tech happened to be a classmate of the IT Manager at Easemark Ventures. Their close relationship could prove advantageous.

With that connection…

Hmph. Let’s see how Darcy’s rushed product makes a fool of itself tomorrow.

That afternoon, Darcy was summoned upstairs for a meeting with Jethro.

She confidently updated him on her project’s progress, mentioning the pre-sales demo scheduled for Easemark the following day.

Jethro smiled, a hint of pride in his eyes. “Do you need me there? I’ve met the CEO of Easemark a few times, you know.”

Darcy, however, shook her head firmly. “That won’t be necessary. We’re very well prepared,” she asserted, her voice steady and assured.

Jethro admired her confidence, nodding in understanding. “Alright then. Just contact me if any issues arise.”