My CEO 190

190 Being a Daughter (Winona)

+25 BONUS

Jayden walks into my living room with a kind of swagger I haven't seen in a while.

He's got that confident, easy-going smile that used to drive me crazy back in college-the one that says he knows exactly what he wants, and he's not afraid to go after it.

"I'm done with therapy," he says, like it's the most natural thing in the world.

I blink at him, caught off guard. "What do you mean, done?"

"Exactly that. I don't need to see Barnaby anymore. I've got my shit together, and I'm in control. No more sessions."

It's not a question, and he's not looking for my approval. He's telling me, plain and simple, that he's made up his mind. There's something undeniably attractive about the way he says it-like he's finally stepping into his own power. But there's also a part of me that's surprised by how resolute he is.

"You're sure about this?"

"Absolutely," he says, walking over to me and pulling me into his arms. "I know what I want, and I'm not going to let anything or anyone get in the way of that. And right now, what I want is to take you out on a date."

His tone shifts, dropping to that low, playful one he used to use when we were younger, and I can't help but smile.

"A date, huh?"

behind my ear. "Just you, me, and some seriously good food. And maybe a little something

and I shake

to kiss me softly. "Come on,

in my belly. It's been so long since we've just been... us. No drama, no chaos. Just

"Great. I'll pick you up at seven. Be ready to

I watch him go, feeling a mixture of pride and a little bit of awe. This is the Jayden I fell in love with the one

better, I can see it in the way she holds herself, the way she talks about the future. But there's still a fragility to her, and

+25 BONUS

190 Being a Daughter

I mean. You could help me with

that kind of responsibility. I mean physically I'm not strong. I'd be worried about being alone with her for too long." "Let's take it a little at a time." I say, reaching out to take her hand. "Abby would love to have her

tugging at her lips. "I'll consider it. It's hard adjusting from being independent,

get it,

into the room, her energy filling

ask,

Then, Mom, you can come live with me. I'll take good care of you." There's a hint of pride in her voice, but also something

reading too much into it. But in

hesitates, looking between us. "We'll see," she says gently. "One step at

says, though I can tell she's already

don't react, just smile and congratulate her on the new job. But the conversation leaves me with a lot to think about. Cass

maintain the closeness they've shared. And I can't

is still fractured. There are pieces missing, and I'm not sure how to put them all together just

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255