Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband

376 Life Finally Works (Jayden)

The Nexus jet is smooth and steady as it slices through the clouds, with Viktor sitting across from me, his usual calm demeanor just a touch more relaxed than usual.

I can't help but feel a rush of excitement about the future. Everything is falling into place here in Brussels- the kids are adjusting, Winona seems at ease for the first time in a long time, and the cottage feels like it was made for us.

I can't remember the last time things felt... normal. As If, maybe, this could be our life, no huge shadows from the past ready to crash over us.

"I have to say," I start, turning toward Viktor, "the staff BBQ was perfect."

"agree.

"They all seemed genuinely happy to be there. Now, with the diplomats' welcome party coming up, I can feel like we're... part of something here."

Viktor nods, a hint of a smile on his face. "It's a unique environment," he says. "But it works because you and Winona are making it your own."

"It's starting to feel like home," I admit. "Moving to the cottage is only going to make that even more real. But, you know," I lean back, scratching the back of my neck, "but I hadn't planned to stay long term." "It's a big decision.

"I realize my decisions don't just affect my family. They affect everyone who works for Gus and for Nexus, everyone who's given their lives to make this it all run smoothly."

"Precisely," Viktor says, his voice measured.

"Nexus Global aside, I think moving from the main house will leave some displacement. Just the kitchen staff alone..."

"As much as they're excited to see you all settle into the cottage, there's... an expectation. Many of them assume they'll be moving in along with you."

I glance over, surprised. "To the cottage? We'd never all fit."

Viktor smiles.

"I hadn't thought of that. I mean, it's a house. For my family. Not the army of staff who've been there for... what, decades?"

"Some of them, yes.Text property © Nôvel(D)ra/ma.Org.

"I don't want to cut anyone's job, but how can we keep that many people busy? Gus was alone there, but he spent a lot of time away too. What did they do?"

"It's true, Gus wasn't there all the time," Viktor says, folding his hands thoughtfully. "But he kept the staff employed by using the place for tours, and events." ""Like a tourist venue?"

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376 Life Finally Works

"Similar yes. There are many precious things to see there. The grand ballroom can host many for special events. The gardens are like a botanical garden. Even aquesthouse at times. Whatever it takes."

"So... you're saying to keep them all on, I need to find something for them to do?"

Viktor nods. "Or transition some to other roles. There's a respect that goes both ways, Jayden."

I look at him. "How so?"

"They're loyal to you, to your family. But there is also a deep loyalty among the staff for each other. They're like a family in their own way. However, if the arrangement no longer works, they'll understand. But it's a delicate balance."

I look out the window, thinking about it. A part of me doesn't want to shake things up, they've already sacrificed so much to keep this place running, even when Gus didn't need them. But I can't justify an entire staff for a single house.

"I like the idea of using the place as a tourist stop, for events and the gardens. That makes sense to me. It has history and that's important."

"Yes, I'll get all the past things brought to you, so you can understand. The mansion and grounds run quite separately from Nexus Global. One does not depend on the other."

"What would you do?" I ask Viktor. "You know these people better than I do. What's the best way to handle it without losing that loyalty, that sense of family they have? I don't want to insult them."

Viktor is quiet for a moment. "You've already made strides by showing them respect, by involving them in a family gathering and welcoming them to be part of your world."

"Okay."

"If you want my advice... consider a smaller staff at the cottage, those who are truly indispensable, offer transition to roles at Nexus or elsewhere in businesses Nexus own. You can support them in finding new opportunities, even if they're not in the mansion." He continues, "The entire staff at the estate are invaluable in planning and executing events and taking care of visitors, even the public by busloads. But maybe some would like other things."

I nod, thinking it through. "You're right. I'll talk to Winona and she can talk to each of them. Decide what we need at the cottage. With us down there, the main mansion and grounds can be that tourist and event

space.

"An ideal arrangement," Viktor agrees. "You're not just a new family to them, Jayden. You're... hope, of a sort. Many have been waiting for change to come."

"Thanks, Viktor. For everything. And that family visit we talked about? The kids would love to see your family's farm."

Viktor's face lights up at the mention. "It would be an honor. They'd be thrilled to host all of you."

I smile. "I can find accommodation close."

"Nonsense. My brothers have new rustic huts almost fitted out. They'll jump at the chance to give them a

test run."

376 Life Finally Works

"That's very generous and an honor."

"Winona and Mama will have much to talk about with kids." Viktor smiles.

"Winona is very excited to get some tips on running a large family."

"Is that what you both wanted? Lots of kids?"

"Actually, it kind of happened suddenly and it just felt right. Winona and I were married once before. Oh, you probably know all the gory details..."

Viktor nods. "What's on paper rarely tells the real story.

"Winona had a miscarriage early. We'd never considered kids, hell we were still kids ourselves really. But that loss hit her hard and then the doctors told her she'd likely never carry babies to full term." ""But she did?"

"Yes, Abby. Our miracle baby. But I never knew she existed until she was almost four. Again, you probably read the details."

"Miracles can happen again."

"I also got Henry, I think I've used up my miracle baby quota."

Viktor nods. "You adopted Bobby and Sarah."

"Yeah, like I say, it felt right. The way they came to us was nothing short of a miracle either. But it's been tough because it all happened so fast. Winona has been an amazing mother." "You are a very lucky man."

"How about you? Why aren't you married and wrangling a bunch of kids?"

"I guess I work, I have my younger family members." He shrugs. "I haven't met the right one yet, maybe. Or I like my life as it is."

"I'm hearing you. Lance and I, boy, we've had the best bachelor life. But I wouldn't trade that for being a dad. No way."

Viktor raises his glass of scotch. "To miracle kids."

I clink my glass against his. "To miracle kids."