Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband

435 Operation Leaving Jayden (Winona)

The morning sun spills into the living room and laughter fills the space as I walk out into the lung area to the kids already playing. It's become a common sound here, one that warms me and brings a smile to my face even as my mind churns with plans and worries They are up, dressed and ready for their day at school. They go twice a week and are all learning the local language along with being taught in English

This place, this life, has become a haven in ways I didn't expect it's hard to think about leaving, but we have to. I wonder if the kids are more excited about going back to the States than I am right now?

"Good morning. Well, look at you three! All ready for your day. I better get some breakfast on."

"Good morning, Mommy. It's school day, yay! Abby says as she bops about the floor

"You've only been a few times, how are you all liking the little school?"

"Everyone's really nice. I've learned some new words in Flemish and Dutch. Plus, they have the best lunches." Bobby looks very proud of himself.

Sarah had chimed in too. "I made a friend named Elena at school, and we play at lunchtime. It's so fun Oh, I have to go make my bed and tidy my room before go."

I hadn't expected them to fall in love with being here really. Not with the chores and responsibilities they have. I thought they'd be clamoring to go back to our old city life, to familiar faces and places. To the life they once had without so many responsibilities. But they genuinely seem to thrive on it here. The chores system will be going wherever we go.

Once they are all at the table, munching cereal, I ask them a question I've been wondering about

"If you could live anywhere, where would you like it to be?"Copyright Nôv/el/Dra/ma.Org.

"Here." Bobby says mid mouthful.

"Here." Abby agrees.

"Yep, here."

I stare at them. "Really, I was thinking about when we go back the States. Our old city or try somewhere new?"

Bobby shrugs. Great fun trying to get anything even remotely decision-making out of a teen sometimes.

"I was thinking, it would probably be easier to go back close to where we were, but not right in the city. But still where you can go back to the same school you had. Then you already know friends." They all nod.

"Why do you like it here so much? You have a lot more jobs to do

"I like being outdoors and working on stuff. I like our gardens and the woods to explore. I feel more grown up here."

435 Operation Leaving Jayden

+25 BONUS

"Okay, Bobby, wow. They are excellent reasons." This kid could sell ice to the Eskimos.

"I like everyone here, but I do miss Nanny Anne and Aunt Cass." Abby says with a frown.

"Same." Sarah agrees.

"I do too. Well, look. It's almost summer school break here and at home. Why don't we use this trip back to find ourselves a place to work on, with a little land. Then you can do some school and then at Christmas time, we can make a decision on where we live for the next couple of years?"

"Okay, Mommy."

I think this is all a bit lost on the girls, but Bobby is the one, as he'll be doing high school.

"That sounds so cool. I think I'd like to come back here, but I like that idea."

"Great. We better get you guys out the door. Come on."

I watch Bobby fiddle with his new cell phone. Today, he gets his first one so he can have a direct line to Jayden when he needs it. The girls already have their tablets to talk to their dad. It's nice to see Bobby so excited about his first phone.

This will also help him stay in contact with his friends. I think I have a plan to work on when I get back from taking the kids to school.

"Mom, look!" Bobby's voice snaps me back to the present. He holds up his phone, excitement glowing in his eyes. "I got a text from Dad!"

"That's great, honey, how exciting!"

I check my watch. After school drop-off, Klara has made me an appointment with one of the top doctors in Brussels. The meeting is critical, and I've been mentally preparing myself all morning.

I need to know if it's safe to fly back to the States, even if it means stopping for rest nights along the way. As much as I'd love the idea of taking a relaxing cruise, practicality has to win out. "Right, let's get in the car. I'll get Henry in."

Decisions made, I know what I have to do. The private jet isn't an option. I need to show that I'm independent, making choices for myself and the kids, even if that means a more complex travel plan.

It's all part of the game we're playing to keep Judy off our trail, and I can't afford any slip-ups.

I sip the last of my tea, mentally preparing myself for whatever news the doctor will have for me.

I wonder how Jayden is going and if he's contacted Judy yet. He'll message me later tonight. We'll be in constant contact via message. There's no staff here at night, but I think texting is still wise for now. I do my breathing exercises and carry Henry out to the car.

This is it. Operation Leaving Jayden is about to get underway.