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."

search his eyes, trying to read him. "Something you

want to. It's

He took me meeting Steve alone

he says after a moment. "There's business I need to take care of, and I think it'll

to stay here, I mean, this

sleep on a bed of nails for you. This isn't about this

I feel about him

away if you need me. This is all a part of being able to function normally We trust each other, no

"I want to stay here for at least a week,

+25 BONUS

172 Unfamiliar Conforts

to live at that house! I have to convince Mom to let

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

"I know."

"One more question."

"What?"

that gun come

those streets and

answer

that topic,"

smiles. I'll head out

"I'll miss you.

"I'll miss you too."

what? You were amazing out there. I'm proud of

you're okay with it? I'll understand if it's all too much." "Winona. No. I've never been more sure that I want to be with you. You're amazing. You're loyal and trustworthy. I am lucky you still have my back after everything. I don't

he's gone.

the first

wait to have a shower. We always used the bath,"

big tub and a separate shower. I'd ask for one if possible. I

beating water for it on the stove, when we had electricity. That

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