My CEO 172

172 Unfamiliar Comforts

(Winona)

I drive us across the city in a cheap hire car, away from the grime, decay and horrid memories that defined so much of my childhood.

The hotel we check into isn't luxurious by Jayden's standards, but it's clean and comfortable.

Far better than anything Mom and Cass have experienced ever. I chose it carefully-something that wouldn't overwhelm them but would still offer them a taste of security and comfort.

As we step into the small lobby, I can see Cass looking around, her expression staid. Mom is quiet, her eyes darting nervously from one side of the lobby to the other.

"It's very nice," Mom says softly, almost like she's afraid to jinx it by speaking too loudly. "Thank you,

Winona."

I nod, giving her a reassuring smile. "It's a place to rest. We'll be safe here."

Jayden handles the check-in process, his usual confidence on full display, but I can sense something different in him. He's quieter than usual.

Maybe this whole experience has him rattled. Maybe he doesn't think he can handle it.

My mind is so tired I don't even have the strength to worry about something like that right now.

Once Mom, Cass and I are settled in the room-two double beds and a pull-out couch-he pulls me aside.

"We need to talk," he says, his voice low.

I step into the hallway with him and close the room door. "About what?"

"I have something major to take into our next therapy session."

trying to read him. "Something you

to. It's just...

down. He took me meeting Steve alone with grace. I have to offer him the same.

back home," he says after a moment. "There's business I need to take care of, and I think it'll be good for you to spend some time with your mom and Cass

want to stay

nails for

I feel about him leaving. "You think we'll be

says, his hand reaching out to squeeze mine. "I'll just be a phone call away if you need me. This is

to stay here for at least a week, I'm not

+25 BONUS

172 Unfamiliar Conforts

to convince Mom to let it go. I want to try and get Cass

to do," he says. "But you can't force anything. They have a right to make their own

"I know."

"One more question."

"What?"

did that gun

think I'm going on those streets

doesn't answer

pin that topic,"

against me." He smiles. I'll head out to

"I'll miss you.

"I'll miss you too."

know what? You were amazing out

No. I've never been more sure that I want to be with you. You're amazing. You're

the others and then he's gone. The place and my heart

call the first

can have it. I can't wait to have a shower. We always used the

the bathroom. Yes, there is a big tub and a separate shower. I'd ask for one if possible. I turn the taps on, and the steam begins

the house. I remember beating water for it on the stove, when we had electricity. That wasn't all that

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