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. "Something you can't tell me

It's just...

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

after a moment. "There's business I need to take care of, and

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

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

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

you need me. This is all a part of being able to

reassurance. "I want to stay here for at least a

+25 BONUS

172 Unfamiliar Conforts

house! I have to convince Mom to let

"But you can't force anything.

"I know."

"One more question."

"What?"

that gun

I'm going on those

doesn't answer

pin that

see how pinning topics can work against me." He smiles. I'll head out to the jet. Your

"I'll miss you.

"I'll miss you too."

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

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

the others and then he's gone. The place and my heart feels very empty without

the

it. I can't wait to have a

shower. I'd ask for one if possible. I turn the taps

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

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