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.

sounds tense, like he's been waiting

I say, keeping my voice steady. "There was a fire. The old

"Jesus, Winona...

them here. I'm bringing Mom

pause, longer this time. "Are you

a flicker of doubt. Is this all too

you to feel overwhelmed. This is a lot to take on, especially

my voice firmer than before. "They need a place to stay, and I'm not going to leave them

on this."

14

177 Better Than Gold

+25 BONUS

I don't trust your decisions," he says quickly. "I just want to make

in check. "I think the real question is, can you handle my past in

"It's not

confident than I feel. "They'll stay with me for a while, but they'll get their own place eventually. This

"Okay. If you're sure. I'll

if he's right to be

see you." I

my mind, but I push it aside. I can't

a pang of longing hits me. I miss her so much, and the thought of

no more sad sacks. We're going to treat this like a vacation. I'm looking forward to getting

dreamed about. I'd like to see what your life

I guess any publicity is good publicity. It certainly gets my brand and name out there. A lot of

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