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

his head. "It's not that I don't want to. It's just... I need to work it out in therapy.

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

"There's business I need to take care of, and I think it'll be good for

because you don't want to stay here,

bed of nails for you. This isn't

about him leaving. "You

you

hold onto his reassurance. "I want to stay here for at least a week,

+25 BONUS

172 Unfamiliar Conforts

live at that house! I have to convince Mom to let it go. I want to try and get Cass into

can't force anything.

"I know."

"One more question."

"What?"

that gun come

I'm going on those streets and not be

answer my

that topic,"

against me." He smiles. I'll head out to the jet. Your suitcases from our suite will be

"I'll miss you.

"I'll miss you too."

know what? You were amazing

real than you've grown up with. Are you sure 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

to the others and then he's gone.

call the

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

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

water for

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