Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband by Anney GW

My CEO 194

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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."

thanks for

tightens, but she doesn't

at

time. Soon." Then

casually. "Soon.

the door, leaning against it for a moment as I

much does Judy

call Jayden. But I know he 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

need to talk to someone, get some advice. But who? Jayden's gone,

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

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can give me some insight, help me figure out

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, make things even more

1. us.

can't risk that. I need to handle this on my own, at least for

I can't let fear control me. I've 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 dark voice in the back of my mind whispers that I'm in

in my hand, startling me. I glance

it. Don't worry. I got you. Talk

a quick reply, telling him to be safe and

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

savor each last drop cascading over me. But I need to hit the road, so I dry and dress

in my kitchen. "Oh, having trouble

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