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."

read him. "Something you can't

I don't want to. It's just... I need to

took me meeting Steve alone with grace. I have to offer him the same. "Okay.

to take care of, and I think it'll be good for you to

because you don't want to stay here, I mean, this

would sleep on a bed of nails for you. This isn't about this place, or

sure how I feel about him leaving. "You think

call away if you need

to hold onto his reassurance. "I want to stay here for

+25 BONUS

172 Unfamiliar Conforts

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

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

"I know."

"One more question."

"What?"

did that

going on those streets and

answer

that topic," I

head out to the jet. Your suitcases from our suite will

"I'll miss you.

"I'll miss you too."

what? You were amazing out there. I'm

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 deserve that." We held each

he's gone. The place and my heart feels

the first

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

a big tub and a separate shower. I'd ask for one if possible. I turn the taps on,

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

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