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 the

tightens, but she doesn't

at Judy. "We'll see

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

say casually. "Soon. For sure. Welcome

a moment as I try to catch

much does

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

in my shoulders. I refuse to let any of this trigger me. I need to talk to someone, get some advice.

Gordon Brown's number. He's been

1/3

And

+25 BONUS

can give me some insight, help me figure out my next

mind works-he thrives on conflict, on pushing people to their limits. If he thinks I'm trying to outmaneuver him, he'll

1. us.

risk that. I need to handle this on my own, at

I'm stronger now, more capable. I won't let Steve take that away from me. Not again. But

my hand, startling me. I glance down

worry. I got

quick reply, telling him to be

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

works a treat, and I savor each last drop cascading over me. But I need to hit the road, so I

is back in my

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

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