Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband by Anney GW

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."

thanks for

smile tightens, but she doesn't argue. "Of

at Judy. "We'll

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

say casually. "Soon. For sure.

a moment as I try to catch my breath. What a

much does

grab my phone to 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 back in the country. I sent

of this trigger me. I need to talk to

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

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some insight, help me figure

then I hesitate. What if involving Gordon only makes things worse? What if Steve finds 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

1. us.

to handle this

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.

hand, startling me. I glance down

worry. I got you.

a quick reply, telling him to be

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

hit the road,

in my

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