My CEO 97

97 Fight For Abby (Winona)

The morning feels grim as I stand inside my townhouse entryway, my wrists and ankles shackled, waiting for my transportation to the Santa Monica courthouse

To be honest, I'm grateful to be going out despite the circumstances. A week of being confined and only talking either about weather and superficial stuff or things that affect me on a life-or-death level, has been exhausting. Then keeping up the pretense of Phillip and I. But we've done it and we are all going to hear what the judge has to say about where Abby is best to live for the time being. I'm more nervous about this than anything. The cold metal digs into my skin, and I feel it in my bones. Sheila Hobbs, my parole officer, stands nearby, her expression a mix of empathy and stern resolve.

stay calm."

"We'll get through this trip, Winona," she says, her voice firm but kind, "Just follow my lead and stay

I nod, trying to muster the strength to keep my emotions in check. "Thanks, Sheila. I'll do my best."

As we make our way to the transport van, the shackles clink with every step, a harsh reminder of my current reality.

The ride to Santa Monica is long and tense, and I can't help but feel waves of anxiety washing over me when I think about it too hard.

Today's court hearing is crucial. We need to convince the judge that Abby's best interests lie with me, despite the accusations against me.

Phillip and Gordon will be there, and I know Phillip is as nervous as I am. We're both wearing wires, hoping that Ashlyn will attempt to speak with one of us secretly, slip up and make a confession. The stakes have never been higher. Sheila sits beside me in the van, her presence a small comfort. "Remember, Winona, you need to stay strong. This is just another step in clearing your name and getting Abby back. Try not to overthink it."

"I know," I whisper, my voice trembling. "I just hope we can make it happen."

to show emotions.

head back and

and the bathroom halfway. Here's some water and crackers

then go back to

inside, the shackles still clinking with every movement.

catch sight of Phillip and Gordon near the entrance. Phillip's eyes meet mine, and he gives me a small, reassuring smile. I do feel better. He's been a real rock this week. 07 Fight

+25 BONUS

and the police security is tight at the

on trial yet. This is

problem." My heart is hammering thinking about seeing Jayden. But I try to

cameras outside the door. Gordon just says "no comment" to every question. Gordon leads us to our seats, and I know Jayden

him yet.

at him and he nods. As

locked onto me. I can see the deep hurt in his eyes. I can't care. He's already hurt me more times than I can count. He believes Ashlyn. That is all the proof I need that everything he said to me about keeping me

This is about Abby.

I

a glance. look straight forward at the bench

close to Phillip and remember our strategy," Gordon whispers to me.

a united front."

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255