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."

eyes, trying to read him.

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

a pang of worry but push it down. He took me meeting Steve alone with grace. I have to offer him

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

because you don't want to

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

I feel about him leaving.

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

his reassurance. "I want to

+25 BONUS

172 Unfamiliar Conforts

I have to convince Mom to let it go. I want to

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

"I know."

"One more question."

"What?"

did that gun come

those streets and not be

doesn't answer my

that topic," I

I'll head out

"I'll miss you.

"I'll miss you too."

know what? You were amazing

you. It's a lot more raw and 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

gone. The place and my heart

call the

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

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

remember beating water for it on the stove, when we had

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

Comments ()

0/255