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

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

a long pause. "Jesus, Winona... are

fine," I assure him. "But there's nothing left for them here. I'm bringing Mom

longer this time. "Are you

flicker of doubt. Is this all too much for him? "What do you

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

Jayden," I say, my voice firmer than before. "They need a place to stay, and I'm not going to leave them here with nothing. The won't take charity and Mom can meet Abby. You have to trust

on this."

14

177 Better Than Gold

+25 BONUS

just want to make sure you're not taking on more than you

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

"It's not that. I just worry about

with me for a while, but they'll get their own place

sigh on the other end of the line. "Okay. If you're sure.

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

I

lingers in my mind, but I push it aside. I can't let it shake

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

going to treat this like a vacation. I'm looking forward to getting to know you both and for

like the vacation I always dreamed about. I'd like to see what your life is like, Winona. Jayden

to believe seeing as our drama is always all over the socials. But I guess any publicity is good publicity. It certainly gets my brand and name out there. A lot of it they make up as they go.

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