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 the

smile tightens, but she doesn't

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

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

"Soon. For

against it for a moment as I try to catch

does

he won't answer, not if he's in the middle of something important. However, I know I also have to tell

this trigger me. I need to talk to someone, get

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

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Once And For

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some insight, help me figure out

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 trying to outmaneuver him, he'll double down,

1. us.

to handle

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

hand, startling me. I glance down and

Don't worry. I got you.

reply, telling him to be safe and that I love him

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

need to hit the road, so I dry and dress and go to the kitchen

in my kitchen. "Oh, having

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

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