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

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

but push it down. He took me meeting Steve alone with grace.

a moment. "There's business I need to take care of, and I think it'll be good for you to spend some time with your mom

that because you don't want to stay

for you. This isn't about this place, or

him leaving. "You think we'll be okay

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

reassurance. "I want to stay

+25 BONUS

172 Unfamiliar Conforts

live at that house! I have to convince Mom to let it go. I want to try

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

"I know."

"One more question."

"What?"

did that gun come

I'm going on those

doesn't answer

pin that topic," I

head out to the

"I'll miss you.

"I'll miss you too."

were amazing out

know all of this has been eye opening for 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 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 deserve that." We

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

the first

have it. I can't wait to have

bathroom. Yes, there is a big tub and a separate shower. I'd ask for one if

for it on the stove, when

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