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."

to read him.

to. It's just... I need to work it out in therapy. It's

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

of, and I think it'll be good for you to spend some time with your mom and Cass without

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

of nails for you.

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

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

his reassurance. "I want to stay here for at least a week, I'm not

+25 BONUS

172 Unfamiliar Conforts

to convince Mom to let

can't force anything. They have a right to make

"I know."

"One more question."

"What?"

that

I'm going on those

answer my

pin that

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

"I'll miss you.

"I'll miss you too."

know what? You were amazing

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 you still have my back after everything. I don't

and then he's gone. The place and my heart feels very empty

call the first

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

the bathroom. Yes, there is a big tub and a separate shower. I'd

water for it on the stove, when

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

Comments ()

0/255