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

tightens, but she

at Judy. "We'll see Abby

still locked on mine. "Yes, another time. Soon." Then she turns and walks away, Gus

say casually. "Soon. For

it for a moment as I try to catch

much does Judy

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

this trigger me. I need to talk to

number. He's been a solid ally, someone

1/3

And

+25 BONUS

insight, help me figure out my next

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, make things even more dangerous for all

1. us.

risk that. I need to handle

steady my nerves. 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

in my hand, startling me. I glance down and see a

it. Don't worry. I got you. Talk soon.

him to be safe and that I

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

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

in my kitchen.

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

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