Chapter 29

"Peyton," I said, "your charity project is exploding! Several big companies want in. Should we meet them?"

"Sure," he replied. "Let's set something up, but keep it low-key. No spectacle."

We chatted a bit longer before he hung up. Leaning back, I closed my eyes. Things were going surprisingly well, but the smoother it got, the more cautious I needed to be.

That afternoon, I picked up Jonas from school. Xavier was there, but scowled and said nothing when he saw me. Yvonne’s voice cut through the air, “Xavier, get in the car.” He obeyed without a word. I watched calmly as he left.

Kneeling beside Jonas, I asked, "How was school?"

"Great, Daddy!" he beamed. "The teacher said my drawings are much better!"

Pride swelled in my chest. "Excellent! How about some new art supplies this weekend?"

His eyes lit up. "Really? Amazing!"

As we talked, Yvonne approached. "Cole, when you drop off Xavier's toys, let Jonas come over."

I hesitated, noticing Jonas’ nervous expression. "Jonas, do you want to go?"

He shook his head. "I want to stay home and draw with you, Daddy."

Relieved, I turned to Yvonne. "You heard him. I'll bring Xavier's things, but Jonas is staying here."

Yvonne frowned. "You're really keeping them apart? Shouldn't they spend more time together?"

Before I could answer, a sharp pain pierced my head. I gasped, clutching my forehead as my vision blurred.

"Cole?" Yvonne's voice was distant. "What's wrong?"

A groan escaped my lips. I felt myself falling.

Chapter 7

I woke in a hospital bed. Jonas was holding my hand, his eyes red and swollen.

"Daddy!" he cried, "You're awake!"

I tried to sit up, but a doctor stopped me. "Mr. Joplin, please rest."

My parents, Hayden, even Yvonne were there.

"What happened?" I croaked.

Hayden stepped forward. "Cole, you collapsed. Severe brain hemorrhage. You got here just in time."

A brain hemorrhage? I felt stunned. How?

The doctor explained it was due to stress, overwork, and recent pressure. He warned, "Mr. Joplin, you need extensive rest. The consequences could be severe."

Jonas' worried face tugged at my heart. "Don't worry," I reassured him, forcing a smile.

Yvonne spoke up. "Cole, you can't handle everything. I'll arrange care for Jonas."

A cold laugh escaped me. "No need to trouble yourself. I'll manage."

Yvonne frowned. "Fine. I see I'm wasting my breath."

Over the next few days, Jonas visited daily, often bringing his drawings. Xavier came too, but soon whined about wanting to play games and left. Jared arrived, gently ushering Xavier away. "Mr. Joplin, I wish you a speedy recovery." I simply watched them go.

Hayden handled company affairs, but I still reviewed emails and documents. One day, Yvonne visited while I was working.