Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband by Anney GW

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."

for the

smile tightens, but she doesn't

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

"Yes, another time. Soon." Then she turns and walks away, Gus sticking close behind

I say casually. "Soon. For sure. Welcome

door, leaning against it for a moment as I try to catch my breath.

much does Judy

the middle of something important. However, I know I

to talk to someone, get some advice. But who? Jayden's gone, and I don't want to drag Lisa

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

1/3

And

+25 BONUS

insight, help me figure out my

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, make things even more

1. us.

I need 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. But even as I tell myself that, a dark voice in the back of my mind whispers that I'm

in my hand, startling me. I glance

on it. Don't worry. I

a quick reply, telling him to be safe and that

the kitchen counter, figuring I'll

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

in my kitchen. "Oh,

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