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."

search his eyes, trying to read him. "Something you can't tell

"It's not that I don't want to. It's just... I

He took me meeting Steve alone with grace. I

of, and I think it'll be good for you to spend some time with your mom and Cass

because you don't want to stay here,

would sleep on a bed of nails for you. This

feel about him leaving. "You think

squeeze mine. "I'll just be a phone call away if you need me. This

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

+25 BONUS

172 Unfamiliar Conforts

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

says. "But you can't

"I know."

"One more question."

"What?"

that gun

on those streets and not

doesn't answer my

that topic,"

can work against me." He smiles. I'll head out to the jet. Your suitcases

"I'll miss you.

"I'll miss you too."

were amazing out there. I'm proud

with it? I'll understand if it's all too much." "Winona. No. I've never been more sure that I

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

call the first

have a shower. We always

shower. I'd ask for one if possible. I turn the taps on, and the steam

think back to the bathroom in the house. I remember beating water for it on the stove, when we had electricity. That wasn't

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