The personal disclosure hit me hard. This wasn’t just about market share or profits—it was about real people. Real children.
“That’s exactly why my husband and I built it,” I said. “Marco had family as well with Type 1 diabetes. He wanted patients to be able to live their lives without constant interruption.”
“Then let’s make sure this reaches the people who need it.” Duncan’s voice softened slightly. “Patrick told me you lost your husband recently. I’m very sorry. But I want you to know—I’m partnering with you because your technology is brilliant, not as some kind of charity. You’ve earned this on merit.”
“Thank you. That means more than you know.”
After we hung up, I sat at Marco’s desk, staring at my notes. Duncan MacLeod wanted to move forward. The deal that would save CarideoTech, prove I could lead the company, shut down Arthur’s hostile takeover attempt—it was real.
My hand went to the phone automatically. I needed to tell someone, needed to share this before I exploded. Lisa was at home. The board members would hear about it on Monday. But Patrick?—
I dialed before I could second-guess myself.
He answered on the second ring. “Patrick McCrae.”
“He wants to move forward.” The words tumbled out. “Duncan. He loves the technology, wants full specs by the end of the week, his lawyers are drafting preliminary agreements—Patrick, it’s actually happening.”
“Theresa.” The warmth in his voice made my chest ache. “That’s brilliant.”
“You were right. About all of it.” I was standing now, pacing Marco’s office with energy I hadn’t felt in months. “He asked incredible questions, really understood the clinical applications,and he thinks we could dominate the European market within two years.”
“You could. Your technology is years ahead of the competition.” He paused. “How are you feeling?”
“Terrified. Exhilarated. Like maybe I can really do this.” I stopped at the window, looking out at the backyard where the kids’ toys were scattered across the lawn. “Like maybe I’m not completely insane for thinking I can run a company and raise four kids and not fall apart completely.”
“You’re not insane. You’re remarkable.” His voice dropped lower. “I’m proud of you, Theresa.”
“Thank you. For the introduction, for the support, for—” For making me feel alive again. For understanding. For the kiss that I still thought about every night. “For everything.”
“You did the work. I just made a phone call.”
“Yes, but you also reminded me I’m still a person. Not just a widow or a CEO or a mother. Just... a person.”
“You’re considerably more than just a person, Theresa Carideo. But I understand what you mean.” His voice softened. “Call me if you need anything. Day or night.”
After we hung up, I stood there holding the phone, my heart doing complicated things I wasn’t ready to examine too closely.
Michael appeared in the doorway around five o’clock, leaning against the doorframe with that expression that meant he was about to ask for something.
“So,” he said. “Shelly and I were thinking about going out tonight. Like, actually out. To a restaurant. With tablecloths.”
I looked up from my computer, where I’d been cataloging technical documents. “You should. You two deserve a night out. You’ve been living here for months.”
“Right, but that means?—”
“I’ll watch the kids. All six of them.” I shut down the computer. “Michael, you’ve been taking care of my kids long enough. It’s my turn. Go have dinner with your beautiful wife.”
He studied me for a long moment. “You seem different today.”
“Different how?”
“Lighter. Like maybe you’re not drowning anymore.” He paused. “Good phone call with Scotland?”
The smile that broke across my face was involuntary. “Really good phone call. Duncan wants to move forward with the licensing deal.”
Michael crossed the room and pulled me into a hug. “Tess. That’s incredible.”
“I know. I’m trying not to jinx it by being too excited, but—” I couldn’t help it. “It’s happening, Michael. I’m actually going to pull this off.”
