My CEO 194

94 Once And For All

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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."

for

she doesn't

clears his throat, glancing at Judy. "We'll see

move, her eyes still locked on mine. "Yes, another time. Soon."

"Soon. For sure. Welcome

moment as I try to catch

does Judy

won't answer, not if he's in the middle of something important. However, I know I also have to tell him his mother is back in the country. I sent

I refuse to let 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

glance at my phone again, my thumb hovering over Gordon Brown's number. He's been a solid ally, someone who knows how to handle dangerous

1/3

And For

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some insight, help me figure out my next

out and sees it as a challenge? I know how his mind works-he thrives on conflict, on pushing people to their limits. If he thinks I'm trying to outmaneuver him, he'll double down,

1. us.

handle this

faced worse than this before, and I've survived. 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

my hand, startling me. I glance down and

I got you. Talk

quick reply, telling him to be safe and that

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

over me. But I need to hit the road, so I dry and dress and go to the kitchen to

in my kitchen. "Oh, having

out today." Her voice sounds worn out. "I want to take something to help

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