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

but she

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

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

say casually. "Soon. For sure.

a moment as I try

much does Judy

in the middle of something important. However, I know I

let any of this trigger me. I need to talk to someone, get some advice. But who? Jayden's gone, and I don't want to

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

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Once And

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

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

1. us.

I need to handle this on my own, at

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

in my hand, startling me. I glance down and

I got you. Talk

reply, telling him to

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

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

in my kitchen. "Oh, having

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

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