Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband novel Chapter 142

142 Being Patent 

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142 Being Patient 

(Judy) 

The news of Ashlyn’s commitment to a high–security mental health facility had come as no surprise to me. After all, I was the one who had put the wheels in motion, ensuring that Ashlyn would be deemed unfit for trial. 

Knowing that her chaotic presence is now contained, though not entirely neutralized, is great because I still need her long–term. 

My thoughts drift back to the day Ashlyn shot Jayden. It was supposed to be Winona in the crosshairs, not my son. I didn’t know he would jump in front of her I didn’t want to risk his life, just eliminate the thom in my side, Winona. 

I grip my teacup tightly, pushing the guilt away. Jayden survived, again, and that’s what matters. Now, I need to play my part to perfection no matter how long it takes. 

Winning Winona’s trust is crucial if I’m going to get what I want–Jayden and Abby all to myself, 

I’ve invited Winona and Abby over today. My staff answers the door and Winona greets me with a guarded expression when she enters my sitting room. “Please, help yourself to tea. And how are you, my darling?” I say to Abby. 

Abby’s face lights up. “Grandma Judy! I drew you a picture!” 

I kneel beside her, admiring her artwork. “Another one? I’ll need a whole art gallery soon.” I took it from her. “It’s beautiful, sweetheart. You’re so talented.” 

Winona watches us, a soft smile on her lips. I can tell she’s starting to believe in this new, improved version of me. Perfect. 

“Abby, your dollhouse is now in the room next to yours. I made you a new playroom.” 

“Yay! Can I go play, Mommy?” 

“Sure.” 

I make small talk with Winona, offering advice, asking for hers. Whatever it takes to break down her inherent distrust of me. Of course this will take months, maybe even years. But it will be worth it. 

“You know, Winona, I admire your decision to not live with Jayden yet.” 

“Admire it?” 

“Yes, in my day you just did what was expected. You endured whatever you had to endure. What women wanted never entered into it.” 

“I’m sorry life was like that for you. That you felt you had no choice but to stay in an abusive relationship.” 

I shrug. “At least with Greg it was physical, I knew what to expect. But if it had been Gus, I don’t know. I wasn’t risking my mind being torn apart.” 

“I’m not sure I could stick around for either.” 

“No one ever does. It happens gradually, you know.” 

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142 Being Patient 

She shakes her head. “Not really.” 

“One day it’s short temper. Another time it’s yelling at you. The next it’s telling you you’re nothing. Then it’s the threat of suicide. It starts with a push, or a grab that bruises. It builds up. Escalates.” 

“I see. Well, again, I’m sorry you had to go through that. 

“The way they are so sorry though. You swear they will never hurt you again. It’s heartbreaking really. I think they actually believe it.” 

Winona’s mind is turning over, I can tell. Something I’ve said has hit the spot. That’s what I was hoping for. I sip my tea. “Are you okay?” 

She eyes me carefully. “Yes. Why?” 

“I know Jayden’s temper. I mean his father and uncle both had control issues, clearly. Jayden has been under a lot of pressure lately. I should’ve been honest from the start. I actually should not have contemplated what I did, what I tried to do to you.” 

Winona stiffens slightly. “He’s not looking to forgive you that’s for sure.” 

“What about you?”