My CEO 190

190 Being a Daughter (Winona)

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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?"

brushing a strand of hair behind my ear. "Just you, me, and some seriously good food.

wink makes me laugh, and I shake my head

in to kiss me

a flutter of excitement in my belly. It's been so long

that boyish look that used to melt my heart. "Great. I'll pick you up at seven. Be ready to be

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 who knows what he wants and isn't afraid to go after it. Maybe this is the new beginning

can see it in the way she holds herself,

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190 Being a Daughter

could stay here. Permanently, I mean. You could help me with Abby, and we could

I'd love to be close to you, but I'm not sure I'm ready for that kind of responsibility. I mean physically I'm not strong. I'd be worried

hands, a small smile tugging at her lips. "I'll consider it. It's hard adjusting from being independent, and there's Cass to consider. It's just been her and I since she

get it, Mom.

into the room, her energy

ask, genuinely

something. I'm saving up, and as soon as I can, I'm moving out. 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 else-something that makes me pause. It's subtle, but I can feel the undercurrent of ownership and jealousy in her

be the one to take care of Mom. Maybe I'm reading too much

she says gently. "One

though I can tell

But the conversation leaves me with a lot to think about. Cass is trying to carve out her own place in the world, just like

the closeness

as we're trying to rebuild it, is still fractured. There are pieces missing, and I'm not sure how to put them all

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