My CEO 177

177 Better Than Gold (Winona)

+25 BONUS

The next morning, we have newly packed luggage and we're getting ready to go to the airport.

"Mom, I know this isn't easy," I break the silence. "But I really think this is the best thing for you right now."

Mom doesn't respond.

"Don't be nervous about the plane ride. It will go fine. The first one is the most nerve-wracking."

Mom smiles. "Don't worry, I'm okay. Let's go and get this day started.

"Once we get to the townhouse, we can start looking for a place where you and Cass can settle down. It's not going to be at my place forever, just until you decide where you want to be." Cass snorts. "Yeah, right. Like we can choose anywhere we want. We don't have infinite resources like others do."

"Cass, it's better than the streets," I say, trying to keep my voice calm. "And it's definitely better than living in fear because of what just happened. You'll have to get a job to make rent." She glares at me, but she doesn't argue. She knows I'm right, even if she doesn't want to admit it.

Mom finally speaks, her voice small and uncertain. "I really don't want to be a burden."

"You won't be," I say firmly. "Mom, Abby deserves to know her grandmother. And you deserve to be a part of her life. You're not a burden. You're family."

She nods slowly, but I can see the doubt still lingering in her eyes. I know this is going to be a big adjustment for all of us, but it's the only way.

I step out of the room and dial Jayden's number. He answers on the first ring.

okay?" He sounds tense, like he's been

voice steady. "There was a fire. The old house...

"Jesus,

nothing left for them here.

another pause, longer this time. "Are you sure that's the

me off guard, and I feel a flicker of doubt. Is this all

just... I don't want you to feel overwhelmed. This is a lot to

stay, and I'm not going to leave them here with nothing. The won't take charity and Mom can meet Abby. You

on this."

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177 Better Than Gold

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your decisions," he says quickly. "I just want to make sure you're not taking on more than

a deep breath, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I think the real question is, can

"It's not that.

I say, trying to sound more confident than I feel. "They'll stay with me for a while, but they'll get

the other end of the line. "Okay. If you're sure. I'll be here when

part of me wonders if he's right to be concerned. "We'll figure

see you." I hear the weariness in

on the bed, staring at my phone. Jayden's doubt lingers in my mind, but I push it aside. I can't let it shake me. I

longing hits me. I miss her so much, and the thought of being back bolsters me. She's safe with Anne, Bobby, and

more sad sacks. We're going to treat this like a vacation. I'm

We'll treat this like the vacation I always dreamed about. I'd like to see what

and name out there. A lot of it they make up as they go. Being high profile isn't always fun." "At least you can afford stuff,"

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