My CEO 194

94 Once And For All

+25 BONUS

194 Once And For All

(Winona)

"What the hell are you doing here?" The words slip out before I can stop them. I'm too on edge to care about politeness right now.

"Is that any way to greet your daughter's grandmother?" Judy's voice is all syrupy sweetness, but her eyes -those cold, calculating eyes-are scanning me, taking in every detail. Gus gives me an apologetic smile. "I told her you didn't like surprises."

"Abby's at school," I say, crossing my arms. "And we have plans after, so..."

"So?" Judy cuts in, her tone sharp. "So we'll wait. I'd love to catch up with you, Winona. Maybe we can chat while we wait for Abby to come home?"

I do not want her near my mother.

Is this coincidence that Steve is in town and Judy shows up?

I'm not mentioning a word about anything. Not Jayden, not Steve and definitely not Ashlyn.

I stand my ground.

"Maybe I can help," Judy offers, her voice too eager. "I could pick Abby up from school, like I used to. Spend some time with her while you handle your plans." "No," I say, too quickly. "Abby has a friend's birthday party."

Judy's eyes narrow slightly. "I see."

thanks for the

but she doesn't

his throat, glancing at Judy. "We'll

doesn't move, her eyes still locked on mine. "Yes, another time. Soon." Then she turns and walks away, Gus sticking close behind

I say casually. "Soon.

leaning against it for a moment as I try to catch my breath. What a shit

much does

in the middle of something important. However, I know I also have to tell

any of this trigger me. I need to talk to someone, get some advice. But who? Jayden's gone, and I don't want to drag Lisa into

Brown's number. He's been a solid ally, someone who knows how to handle dangerous

1/3

And

+25 BONUS

he can give me some insight, help me

mind works-he thrives on conflict, on pushing people to their limits. If he thinks I'm trying to outmaneuver

1. us.

risk that. I need to handle this on my own, at least

I'm stronger now, more capable. I won't let Steve take that away from me. Not again. But even as I tell myself that, a dark voice in the back of my mind whispers that I'm in over my head. That Steve is more dangerous

phone buzzes in my hand, startling me. I

Don't worry. I got you. Talk

him to be safe and that I love

my phone on the kitchen counter, figuring I'll grab a quick shower to clear

But I need to hit the road, so I dry and dress and go to the kitchen to grab my phone

is back in my

came to let you know I'm skipping going out today." Her voice sounds worn out. "I want to take something to help me sleep. I'm just

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