Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband by Anney GW

My CEO 197

197 It Is Time

(Winona)

I drive back across town to Lisa's place, gripping the steering wheel tight. Tension creeps into my shoulders. This is it-the last stop before I confront Steve. My heart pounds, every beat reminding me of what's waiting for me.

I park out front and get Abby out of the car, my hands trembling slightly as I unbuckle her seatbelt. She chatters on, oblivious to the storm brewing in my mind. Once we're through the gate, she runs up to Lisa's door with that boundless energy. They get along so well. Lisa would make a great mom. It's a pity she couldn't find her person. Then again, all you really need is a sperm donor, I suppose. I know several women raising kids alone and acing it.

I mean, I did it. Okay, I had Anne, who I couldn't have done it without. But still, I think about what it would be like if Lisa had her own little one running around, filling the house with that same laughter that Abby brings with her. Lisa opens the door, smiling wide as Abby practically tackles her with a hug.

"Hey, sweetie! Ready for some fun?" she asks.

"Yeah!" Abby squeals, her little arms wrapped tightly around Lisa's waist. She looks up at her with those big, trusting eyes, the kind that make you want to protect her from everything. Exactly what I'm about to do.

Lisa looks at me over Abby's head, her smile faltering slightly as she takes in my tense expression. "You okay, Winona?" she asks, her voice dipping into concern, a slight frown creasing her forehead.

I nod, trying to keep my expression neutral, though I can feel the tightness in my face. "Yeah. Can we talk for a few minutes?" My voice sounds steadier than I feel.

She nods. "Abby, Ginger is on the sofa. He's really missed you," she says, her tone lightening as she directs Abby toward the living room.

to find the cat. They are the best

never leaves mine. "What's up?" she asks

I also need to leave my car here, and somehow Abby needs to think I'm still here somewhere." The words tumble out of me, quicker than I intended, but there's no time to sugarcoat

evident. "What the fuck, Winona?" she says, her voice rising slightly, though she quickly checks herself,

know, the better," I say, my voice firm, trying to convey the seriousness

the worry is still etched in her

my face at the memory of our wilder days. It feels like a lifetime ago. "I'll slip out the back and order

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197 It Is Time

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head, her concern deepening. "I can tell Abby you've

suggests.

shrug, knowing that Abby is too young to question much, but not wanting to underestimate her either. Still if anyone asks Abby, she needs to say I was here. I need to get this over with

her shoulders slumping slightly. "Winona," she

here, remember? I'll be as quick as I can."

"I'll slip out back. Can I borrow a

a moment, returning with an oversized hoodie that smells faintly of her perfume. "Here," she says, handing it to me. "Just... be careful, okay?"

up over my head, shadowing my face