Chapter 20

When Jacqueline finally gave her confirmation, Hayden's tense body relaxed, and he drifted into sleep. Even if he died now, he would have no regrets. Jacqueline took in deep breaths to calm herself down. She contacted Penelope and Fabian. Within seconds, she received a message that read, "I'll arrange for a plane immediately. See you in five hours." What she hadn't expected was that Penelope would come, too. When Penelope appeared, she was nothing like the confident, dazzling woman she was when they parted ways. She had grown thin and seemed to be emotionally withdrawn, consumed by a certain darkness. In the past, if Hayden had been hurt this badly, she would have been the first to rush over, crying. Now, she simply stood to the side, unmoving. Jacqueline didn't know how to face her. She kept her eyes lowered. "Let's get on the plane. How's Mr. Gardner doing?" Fabian asked, stepping forward. In one quick and professional movement, he connected the portable ventilator as they li