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 him. "Something

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

of worry but push it down. He took me meeting Steve alone with grace. I have to offer him the same. "Okay.

and I think it'll be good for you to spend some time

to stay here, I

would sleep on a bed of nails for you.

feel about him leaving. "You think we'll be okay until the next

a phone call away if you need me. This is all a part of being able to function normally We trust each other, no matter

want to stay here for at least a week, I'm not taking

+25 BONUS

172 Unfamiliar Conforts

to let

he says. "But you can't force anything. They

"I know."

"One more question."

"What?"

did that

on those

answer

that topic," I

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

"I'll miss you.

"I'll miss you too."

You were amazing out there. I'm

"Winona. No. I've never been more sure that I

gone. The place and

the

have it. I can't wait to have a shower. We always used the bath," Cass

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

water for it on the stove,

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