SWNOVELS Chapter My CEO 247
246 Getting Intel
246 Getting Intel
(Winona)
"So, the gala night was interesting." Phillip says, not looking up from his papers.
He's been over at Brennan Industries working with Judy on a marketing push since the gala evening.
I glance over at him. "What do you mean?"
"Judy was her usual underhanded self."
"No surprise to me at all."
"No. Me neither. Jayden is right to cut her out of his life."
"What do you think of Gabriel, with Cass?"
"Look, I think we are all a little concerned but Cass is no slouch. She stood up for you when Judy mentioned you. Gabriel basically told Judy mind her own business too."
"Really?" Even after that fight we'd had? "Cass never mentioned anything. What do Gabriel's family think of Cass?"
"They seem fine, but their culture is different I guess."
"Do you know them very well?"
"The sisters," Phillip clarifies, finally looking up. "I've met with Ana and Eva a few times now, and they are very nice, but... I get the feeling they're not really interested in sticking around in the States. They miss home. Mia, well she is a free spirit. I don't think she has any focus in life other than fun."
Half her luck. I'd love to have that carefree attitude to life again.
"Does that mean they will sell their shares?"
"Yeah, I guess," Phillip muses, setting his papers down. "But still, it seems strange to me. Ana and Eva have this opportunity here, to be a part of the American dream and they don't seem to care much about it."
I shrug. "I guess they are happy with life the way they live it now. I can respect that."
"I can tell you, it's not through lack of intelligence. Both of them are highly educated and sharp as a whip. They aren't intimidated by anyone it seems.
"I've heard about the hot-headed Latino blood. I wish I'd had a transfusion of that all those years I couldn't stand up to Judy."
"I think you did what you had to do for Abby."
Before I can respond, there's a knock at the door. Gus walks in, his usual authority filling the room.
"Winona," he greets me with a smile, then nods at Phillip. "Phillip."
I sit up straighter in my chair. "Gus, what brings you here?"
I haven't seen or heard from him since he stopped Jayden going near Judy.
246 Getting intel
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"I'm going to grab some lunch, Give you two some privacy," Phillip says.
I nod at Phillip.
Gus pulls up a chair. "I wanted to see if you and Jayden would like to have dinner with me and Maria. She has some questions about Greg." "You know how he feels about Greg. And honestly, I think you are the one who should tell Maria about your brother, not Jayden."
"Maria's been asking a lot of questions. She's been struggling to reconcile the man she knew with the stranger that's been revealed."
I raise an eyebrow. "How does she remember him?"
"She said Greg was loving, kind, attentive, and present with her and the kids. He traveled for work a bit but that was his job. When he never came back, she wasn't sure where to start looking for him because after she tried searching for him, it had become obvious he wasn't who he married her as."
"I do feel for Maria. Well, if she is being real. Imagine finding the loving husband you thought you knew had a whole other life and identity?"
Gus leans back in his chair, crossing his arms. "She still gets very upset about it. I do feel she is being genuine. I can see what Greg fell in love with. She sees the good in everything. You know, she even told Judy she was sorry for her loss when Judy introduced herself as Greg's wife at the gala."
"Oh my god. Judy has some hide considering she hated the man."
"Maria took it in her stride. She is quite amazing actually."
I raise my eyebrows. I really can't help but like Gus. "Maybe there's another wedding in the future," I tease, There's a moment of silence before Gus speaks again. "Speaking of the wedding, who's giving you away? Do you have someone? I'd be happy to show up for you, and Jayden."
I smile, shaking my head. "I don't need anyone to give me away, Gus. I'm comfortable walking on my own to Jayden. Thank you, I'm very touched by your offer."
7 mean, I don't have an invite anyway, but I wanted you to know, I'd be there for you."
"Thanks. How does Judy feel about you seeing Maria?"
"Let's just say, if looks could kill, I'd be dead ten times over."
I grin.
"I have to say I'm a little satisfied knowing she's pissed."
"Hah! Me too. I've loved Judy for a lot of years despite her flaws. But lately, the shine is wearing off. It's hard work. I'd like to think love can become easier in my golden years."
"You talk like you're ninety."
1 feel it some days."
"But not when Maria is around?"
"It's almost impossible to not think good things when Maria is around. She has a profound calming
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246 Getting Intel
energy. I thought she'd be good for you. She has that same maternal focus that you have. She loves her children but not in a toxic way."
"What about her father?"
Gus shifts in his seat, his expression turning serious again. "She doesn't acknowledge him as her father. I'm satisfied there's no link between her and the corruption her father is allegedly involved in."
I nod, relieved. "If you're sure about her, then I'll trust your judgment. What about the sisters? Phillip seems to feel they are okay and we're both on the fence about Gabriel."
"Ana and Eva are very much like their mother, but they are well
247 Cancun Worries
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247 Cancun Worries
(Winona)
"Cass is heading to Cancun soon with Gabriel and Mia for a short break before the wedding." I can't hide the hint of disapproval.
Gus raises an eyebrow. "You're not okay with her seeing Gabriel?"
I sigh, leaning back in my chair. "No. Not really. But what can I do? She's an adult, Gus. I can't control her decisions. And besides, I've got too much on my plate with the wedding and our family." "Yes, you can't take on life for Cass too."
"It's just. I'm worried. Gabriel. He's older, and I can't shake the feeling that he's using Cass."
"I get it."
"But what is he using her for? I mean, he clearly doesn't need her for a green card or residency with the business shares. It's not like Cass has assets or a fortune in the bank." I shrug.
"Maybe you just answered your own question. Maybe he likes Cass for who she is. From what I saw, a very remarkable young woman who has no qualms taking care of herself or telling anyone how it really is. "You have no clue how good she is at taking care of herself, physically and verbally. But it's emotionally I worry about."
"We all get over our first heartbreak."
"I'm not sure you and I are advocates for that reasoning"
He smiles. "Probably not. We're still hung up on our first heartbreaks. I think Cass will come to you if she gets out of her depth."
"I really do want to believe that. My gut feelings are probably just over the top lately."
"How was Jayden after the whole thing with Judy?"
"Let's just say he was livid, but not because he loves and misses his mother." I don't want to say much more. It's not my place.
"I guess she will always hope otherwise."
I let out a humorless laugh. "The whole thing with Gabriel-does he even realize Judy is using him like
that?"
"From what I've seen, Gabriel isn't completely trusting of Judy," Gus replies, his voice measured. "He's making his own decisions, staying independent. I don't think he's the type to be easily manipulated." "Well, that's a relief," I mutter. "But I'm more worried about Judy getting her hooks into Cass. I know she'll try driving a wedge between us, and I can't help but feel like this is all part of some larger plan."
Gus leans forward, his gaze sharp. "Cass is strong, Winona. She's not as easily swayed as you think. But I'll keep an eye on things. You just focus on the wedding. In fact, I might even take a trip to Cancun soon." He gives me a wink. "What a coincidence."
247 Cancun Wornes
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I give him a small smile. "Thanks, Gus. I appreciate it."
111 see if Maria wants to join me. Maybe that will be enough distraction from your wedding day for Judy. I'll send her a few pics of the wonderful scenery there.
"That is very evil. But I like it." I laugh. "Gus, why do you care about me so much?"
"That's easy. You are the love of my son's life, and you are the mother to the heirs to Nexus Global. I will always see you have what you need. That is a promise
1 will sleep better at night knowing that." I wish I could sleep better but it's for a whole other reason.
But Jayden hasn't had any more dreams lately. That I know of. I just need to let it go if I'm not going to mention it to him and get it off my mind.
"Is everything okay?" Gus interrupts my thoughts.
"Sorry, just daydreaming."
"How is Henry?"
"We had a little scare when they tried to get him to bottle feed. We're trying again next week. Jayden will hold him for skin contact this try."
"I'm sure he'll get it this time. He's a real fighter."
"He really is. It's hard to believe that babies so tiny can fight for life like that."
"Instinct is an amazing thing. When can we visit? I mean, if that's okay?"
"I'm sure it will be, Gus. But he needs to be out of the incubator and breathing alone. His immune system) needs to be built up more. One small infection could end it all."
"I understand. Let me know if you need anything."
I look at my phone. "I really have to get moving. I have the last fitting in an hour, sorry."
Gus stands up. "I won't hold you up any longer. Thanks for the chat."
"Thank you for the chat. I do feel better. You know, I think Maria is good for you. Go for it."
"We are friends. I'm not sure she is thinking anything more. But if it's just friendship, I'll take it. I almost believe the world can be a wonderful place with her around."
"The world can be, Gus." I think of how wonderful my little family makes me feel lately. "Maybe you just need to believe."
"If only it were that easy. But when you know what I know, then things seem a bit less shiny."
Something about the look on his face, in his eyes, worries me. "Gus, are you okay?"
He gives a small chuckle.
"What?" I ask.
"You might be the only person ever to ask me that."
247 Cancun Worries
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247 Cancun Worries
(Winona)
"Cass is heading to Cancun soon with Gabriel and Mia for a short break before the wedding." I can't hide the hint of disapproval.
Gus raises an eyebrow. "You're not okay with her seeing Gabriel?"
I sigh, leaning back in my chair. "No. Not really. But what can I do? She's an adult, Gus. I can't control her decisions. And besides, I've got too much on my plate with the wedding and our family." "Yes, you can't take on life for Cass too."
"It's just. I'm worried. Gabriel. He's older, and I can't shake the feeling that he's using Cass."
"I get it."
"But what is he using her for? I mean, he clearly doesn't need her for a green card or residency with the business shares. It's not like Cass has assets or a fortune in the bank." I shrug.
"Maybe you just answered your own question. Maybe he likes Cass for who she is. From what I saw, a very remarkable young woman who has no qualms taking care of herself or telling anyone how it really is. "You have no clue how good she is at taking care of herself, physically and verbally. But it's emotionally I worry about."
"We all get over our first heartbreak."
"I'm not sure you and I are advocates for that reasoning"
He smiles. "Probably not. We're still hung up on our first heartbreaks. I think Cass will come to you if she gets out of her depth."
"I really do want to believe that. My gut feelings are probably just over the top lately."
"How was Jayden after the whole thing with Judy?"
"Let's just say he was livid, but not because he loves and misses his mother." I don't want to say much more. It's not my place.
"I guess she will always hope otherwise."
I let out a humorless laugh. "The whole thing with Gabriel-does he even realize Judy is using him like
that?"
"From what I've seen, Gabriel isn't completely trusting of Judy," Gus replies, his voice measured. "He's making his own decisions, staying independent. I don't think he's the type to be easily manipulated." "Well, that's a relief," I mutter. "But I'm more worried about Judy getting her hooks into Cass. I know she'll try driving a wedge between us, and I can't help but feel like this is all part of some larger plan."
Gus leans forward, his gaze sharp. "Cass is strong, Winona. She's not as easily swayed as you think. But I'll keep an eye on things. You just focus on the wedding. In fact, I might even take a trip to Cancun soon." He gives me a wink. "What a coincidence."
247 Cancun Wornes
+25 BONUS
I give him a small smile. "Thanks, Gus. I appreciate it."
111 see if Maria wants to join me. Maybe that will be enough distraction from your wedding day for Judy. I'll send her a few pics of the wonderful scenery there.
"That is very evil. But I like it." I laugh. "Gus, why do you care about me so much?"
"That's easy. You are the love of my son's life, and you are the mother to the heirs to Nexus Global. I will always see you have what you need. That is a promise
1 will sleep better at night knowing that." I wish I could sleep better but it's for a whole other reason.
But Jayden hasn't had any more dreams lately. That I know of. I just need to let it go if I'm not going to mention it to him and get it off my mind.
"Is everything okay?" Gus interrupts my thoughts.
"Sorry, just daydreaming."
"How is Henry?"
"We had a little scare when they tried to get him to bottle feed. We're trying again next week. Jayden will hold him for skin contact this try."
"I'm sure he'll get it this time. He's a real fighter."
"He really is. It's hard to believe that babies so tiny can fight for life like that."
"Instinct is an amazing thing. When can we visit? I mean, if that's okay?"
"I'm sure it will be, Gus. But he needs to be out of the incubator and breathing alone. His immune system) needs to be built up more. One small infection could end it all."
"I understand. Let me know if you need anything."
I look at my phone. "I really have to get moving. I have the last fitting in an hour, sorry."
Gus stands up. "I won't hold you up any longer. Thanks for the chat."
"Thank you for the chat. I do feel better. You know, I think Maria is good for you. Go for it."
"We are friends. I'm not sure she is thinking anything more. But if it's just friendship, I'll take it. I almost believe the world can be a wonderful place with her around."
"The world can be, Gus." I think of how wonderful my little family makes me feel lately. "Maybe you just need to believe."
"If only it were that easy. But when you know what I know, then things seem a bit less shiny."
Something about the look on his face, in his eyes, worries me. "Gus, are you okay?"
He gives a small chuckle.
"What?" I ask.
"You might be the only person ever to ask me that."
2/3
247 Cancun Wonies
247 Cancun Worries
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247 Cancun Worries
(Winona)
"Cass is heading to Cancun soon with Gabriel and Mia for a short break before the wedding." I can't hide the hint of disapproval.
Gus raises an eyebrow. "You're not okay with her seeing Gabriel?"
I sigh, leaning back in my chair. "No. Not really. But what can I do? She's an adult, Gus. I can't control her decisions. And besides, I've got too much on my plate with the wedding and our family." "Yes, you can't take on life for Cass too."
"It's just. I'm worried. Gabriel. He's older, and I can't shake the feeling that he's using Cass."
"I get it."
"But what is he using her for? I mean, he clearly doesn't need her for a green card or residency with the business shares. It's not like Cass has assets or a fortune in the bank." I shrug.
"Maybe you just answered your own question. Maybe he likes Cass for who she is. From what I saw, a very remarkable young woman who has no qualms taking care of herself or telling anyone how it really is.
"You have no clue how good she is at taking care of herself, physically and verbally. But it's emotionally I worry about."
"We all get over our first heartbreak."
"I'm not sure you and I are advocates for that reasoning"
He smiles. "Probably not. We're still hung up on our first heartbreaks. I think Cass will come to you if she gets out of her depth."
"I really do want to believe that. My gut feelings are probably just over the top lately."
"How was Jayden after the whole thing with Judy?"
"Let's just say he was livid, but not because he loves and misses his mother." I don't want to say much more. It's not my place.
I
guess she will always hope otherwise."
I let out a humorless laugh. "The whole thing with Gabriel-does he even realize Judy is using him like
that?"
"From what I've seen, Gabriel isn't completely trusting of Judy," Gus replies, his voice measured. "He's making his own decisions, staying independent. I don't think he's the type to be easily manipulated." "Well, that's a relief," I mutter. "But I'm more worried about Judy getting her hooks into Cass. I know she'll try driving a wedge between us, and I can't help but feel like this is all part of some larger plan."
Gus leans forward, his gaze sharp. "Cass is strong, Winona. She's not as easily swayed as you think. But I'll keep an eye on things. You just focus on the wedding. In fact, I might even take a trip to Cancun soon."
He gives me a wink. "What a coincidence."
247 Cancun Wornes
+25 BONUS
I give him a small smile. "Thanks, Gus. I appreciate it."
111 see if Maria wants to join me. Maybe that will be enough distraction from your wedding day for Judy. I'll send her a few pics of the wonderful scenery there.
"That is very evil. But I like it." I laugh. "Gus, why do you care about me so much?"
"That's easy. You are the love of my son's life, and you are the mother to the heirs to Nexus Global. I will always see you have what you need. That is a promise
1 will sleep better at night knowing that." I wish I could sleep better but it's for a whole other reason.
But Jayden hasn't had any more dreams lately. That I know of. I just need to let it go if I'm not going to mention it to him and get it off my mind.
"Is everything okay?" Gus interrupts my thoughts.
"Sorry, just daydreaming."
"How is Henry?"
"We had a little scare when they tried to get him to bottle feed. We're trying again next week. Jayden will hold him for skin contact this try."
"I'm sure he'll get it this time. He's a real fighter."
"He really is. It's hard to believe that babies so tiny can fight for life like that."
"Instinct is an amazing thing. When can we visit? I mean, if that's okay?"
"I'm sure it will be, Gus. But he needs to be out of the incubator and breathing alone. His immune system) needs to be built up more. One small infection could end it all."
"I understand. Let me know if you need anything."
I look at my phone. "I really have to get moving. I have the last fitting in an hour, sorry."
Gus stands up. "I won't hold you up any longer. Thanks for the chat."
"Thank you for the chat. I do feel better. You know, I think Maria is good for you. Go for it."
"We are friends. I'm not sure she is thinking anything more. But if it's just friendship, I'll take it. I almost believe the world can be a wonderful place with her around."
"The world can be, Gus." I think of how wonderful my little family makes me feel lately. "Maybe you just need to believe."
"If only it were that easy. But when you know what I know, then things seem a bit less shiny."
Something about the look on his face, in his eyes, worries me. "Gus, are you okay?"
He gives a small chuckle.
"What?" I ask.
"You might be the only person ever to ask me that."
2/3
247 Cancun Wonies
247 Cancun Worries
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247 Cancun Worries
(Winona)
"Cass is heading to Cancun soon with Gabriel and Mia for a short break before the wedding." I can't hide the hint of disapproval.
Gus raises an eyebrow. "You're not okay with her seeing Gabriel?"
I sigh, leaning back in my chair. "No. Not really. But what can I do? She's an adult, Gus. I can't control her decisions. And besides, I've got too much on my plate with the wedding and our family."
"Yes, you can't take on life for Cass too."
"It's just. I'm worried. Gabriel. He's older, and I can't shake the feeling that he's using Cass."
"I get
it."
"But what is he using her for? I mean, he clearly doesn't need her for a green card or residency with the business shares. It's not like Cass has assets or a fortune in the bank." I shrug.
"Maybe you just answered your own question. Maybe he likes Cass for who she is. From what I saw, a very remarkable young woman who has no qualms taking care of herself or telling anyone how it really is.
"You have no clue how good she is at taking care of herself, physically and verbally. But it's emotionally I worry about."
"We all get over our first heartbreak."
"I'm not sure you and I are advocates for that reasoning"
He smiles. "Probably not. We're still hung up on our first heartbreaks. I think Cass will come to you if she gets out of her depth."
"I really do want to believe that. My gut feelings are probably just over the top lately."
"How was Jayden after the whole thing with Judy?"
"Let's just say he was livid, but not because he loves and misses his mother." I don't want to say much more. It's not my place.
"I
guess she will always hope otherwise."
I let out a humorless laugh. "The whole thing with Gabriel-does he even realize Judy is using him like
that?"
"From what I've seen, Gabriel isn't completely trusting of Judy," Gus replies, his voice measured. "He's making his own decisions, staying independent. I don't think he's the type to be easily manipulated."
"Well, that's a relief," I mutter. "But I'm more worried about Judy getting her hooks into Cass. I know she'll try driving a wedge between us, and I can't help but feel like this is all part of some larger plan."
Gus leans forward, his gaze sharp. "Cass is strong, Winona. She's not as easily swayed as you think. But I'll keep an eye on things. You just focus on the wedding. In fact, I might even take a trip to Cancun soon."
He gives me a wink. "What a coincidence."
247 Cancun Wornes
+25 BONUS
I give him a small smile. "Thanks, Gus. I appreciate it."
111 see if Maria wants to join me. Maybe that will be enough distraction from your wedding day for Judy. I'll send her a few pics of the wonderful scenery there.
"That is very evil. But I like it." I laugh. "Gus, why do you care about me so much?"
"That's easy. You are the love of my son's life, and you are the mother to the heirs to Nexus Global. I will always see you have what you need. That is a promise
1 will sleep better at night knowing that." I wish I could sleep better but it's for a whole other reason.
But Jayden hasn't had any more dreams lately. That I know of. I just need to let it go if I'm not going to mention it to him and get it off my mind.
"Is everything okay?" Gus interrupts my thoughts.
"Sorry, just daydreaming."
"How
is Henry?"
"We had a little scare when they tried to get him to bottle feed. We're trying again next week. Jayden will hold him for skin contact this try."
"I'm sure he'll get it this time. He's a real fighter."
"He really is. It's hard to believe that babies so tiny can fight for life like that."
"Instinct is an amazing thing. When can we visit? I mean, if that's okay?"
"I'm sure it will be, Gus. But he needs to be out of the incubator and breathing alone. His immune system) needs to be built up more. One small infection could end it all."
"I understand. Let me know if you need anything."
I look at my phone. "I really have to get moving. I have the last fitting in an hour, sorry."
Gus stands up. "I won't hold you up any longer. Thanks for the chat."
"Thank you for the chat. I do feel better. You know, I think Maria is good for you. Go for it."
"We are friends. I'm not sure she is thinking anything more. But if it's just friendship, I'll take it. I almost believe the world can be a wonderful place with her around."
"The world can be, Gus." I think of how wonderful my little family makes me feel lately. "Maybe you just need to believe."
"If only it were that easy. But when you know what I know, then things seem a bit less shiny."
Something about the look on his face, in his eyes, worries me. "Gus, are you okay?"
He gives a small chuckle.
"What?" I ask.
"You might be the only person ever to ask me that."
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247 Cancun Wonies
""Well, are you?"
He nods. "I'm okay. Eyes forward."
"Yes. Eyes forward," I agree.
There's so much more to Gus than meets the eye. I can feel it. One thing is for sure...
I'd rather have him for me than against me.
247 Cancun Worries
+25 BONUS
247 Cancun Worries
(Winona)
"Cass is heading to Cancun soon with Gabriel and Mia for a short break before the wedding." I can't hide the hint of disapproval.
Gus raises an eyebrow. "You're not okay with her seeing Gabriel?"
I sigh, leaning back in my chair. "No. Not really. But what can I do? She's an adult, Gus. I can't control her decisions. And besides, I've got too much on my plate with the wedding and our family."
"Yes, you can't take on life for Cass too."
"It's just. I'm worried. Gabriel. He's older, and I can't shake the feeling that he's using Cass."
"I get it."
"But what is he using her for? I mean, he clearly doesn't need her for a green card or residency with the business shares. It's not like Cass has assets or a fortune in the bank." I shrug.
"Maybe you just answered your own question. Maybe he likes Cass for who she is. From what I saw, a very remarkable young woman who has no qualms taking care of herself or telling anyone how it really is.
"You have no clue how good she is at taking care of herself, physically and verbally. But it's emotionally I worry about."
"We all get over our first heartbreak."
"I'm not sure you and I are advocates for that reasoning"
He smiles. "Probably not. We're still hung up on our first heartbreaks. I think Cass will come to you if she gets out of her depth."
"I really do want to believe that. My gut feelings are probably just over the top lately."
"How was Jayden after the whole thing with Judy?"
"Let's just say he was livid, but not because he loves and misses his mother." I don't want to say much more. It's not my place.
"I
guess
she will always hope otherwise."
I let out a humorless laugh. "The whole thing with Gabriel-does he even realize Judy is using him like
that?"
"From what I've seen, Gabriel isn't completely trusting of Judy," Gus replies, his voice measured. "He's making his own decisions, staying independent. I don't think he's the type to be easily manipulated."
"Well, that's a relief," I mutter. "But I'm more worried about Judy getting her hooks into Cass. I know she'll try driving a wedge between us, and I can't help but feel like this is all part of some larger plan."
Gus leans forward, his gaze sharp. "Cass is strong, Winona. She's not as easily swayed as you think. But I'll keep an eye on things. You just focus on the wedding. In fact, I might even take a trip to Cancun soon."
He gives me a wink. "What a coincidence."
247 Cancun Wornes
+25 BONUS
I give him a small smile. "Thanks, Gus. I appreciate it."
111 see if Maria wants to join me. Maybe that will be enough distraction from your wedding day for Judy. I'll send her a few pics of the wonderful scenery there.
"That is very evil. But I like it." I laugh. "Gus, why do you care about me so much?"
"That's easy. You are the love of my son's life, and you are the mother to the heirs to Nexus Global. I will always see you have what you need. That is a promise
1 will sleep better at night knowing that." I wish I could sleep better but it's for a whole other reason.
But Jayden hasn't had any more dreams lately. That I know of. I just need to let it go if I'm not going to mention it to him and get it off my mind.
"Is everything okay?" Gus interrupts my thoughts.
"Sorry, just daydreaming."
"How is
Henry?"
"We had a little scare when they tried to get him to bottle feed. We're trying again next week. Jayden will hold him for skin contact this try."
"I'm sure he'll get it this time. He's a real fighter."
"He really is. It's hard to believe that babies so tiny can fight for life like that."
"Instinct is an amazing thing. When can we visit? I mean, if that's okay?"
"I'm sure it will be, Gus. But he needs to be out of the incubator and breathing alone. His immune system) needs to be built up more. One small infection could end it all."
"I understand. Let me know if you need anything."
I look at my phone. "I really have to get moving. I have the last fitting in an hour, sorry."
Gus stands up. "I won't hold you up any longer. Thanks for the chat."
"Thank you for the chat. I do feel better. You know, I think Maria is good for you. Go for it."
"We are friends. I'm not sure she is thinking anything more. But if it's just friendship, I'll take it. I almost believe the world can be a wonderful place with her around."
"The world can be, Gus." I think of how wonderful my little family makes me feel lately. "Maybe you just need to believe."
"If only it were that easy. But when you know what I know, then things seem a bit less shiny."
Something about the look on his face, in his eyes, worries me. "Gus, are you okay?"
He gives a small chuckle.
""What?" I ask.
"You might be the only person ever to ask me that."
2/3
247 Cancun Wonies
"Well, are you?"
He nods.
"I'm okay. Eyes forward."
"Yes. Eyes forward," I agree.
There's
so
much more to Gus than meets the eye. I can feel it. One thing is for sure...
I'd rather have him for me than against me.
247 Cancun Worries
+25 BONUS
247 Cancun Worries
(Winona)
"Cass is heading to Cancun soon with Gabriel and Mia for a short break before the wedding." I can't hide the hint of disapproval.
Gus raises an eyebrow. "You're not okay with her seeing Gabriel?"
I sigh, leaning back in my chair. "No. Not really. But what can I do? She's an adult, Gus. I can't control her decisions. And besides, I've got too much on my plate with the wedding and our family."
"Yes,
you can't take on
life
for
Cass too."
"It's just. I'm worried. Gabriel. He's older, and I can't shake the feeling that he's using Cass."
"I get
it."
"But what is he using her for? I mean, he clearly doesn't need her for a green card or residency with the business shares. It's not like Cass has assets or a fortune in the bank." I shrug.
"Maybe you just answered your own question. Maybe he likes Cass for who she is. From what I saw, a very remarkable young woman who has no qualms taking care of herself or telling anyone how it really is.
"You have no clue how good she is at taking care of herself, physically and verbally. But it's emotionally I worry about."
"We all get over our first heartbreak."
"I'm not sure you and I are advocates for that reasoning"
He smiles. "Probably not. We're still hung up on our first heartbreaks. I think Cass will come to you if she gets out of her depth."
"I really do want to believe that. My gut feelings are probably just over the top lately."
"How was Jayden after the whole thing with Judy?"
"Let's just say he was livid, but not because he loves and misses his mother." I don't want to say much more. It's not my place.
"I
guess she will always hope otherwise."
I let out a humorless laugh. "The whole thing with Gabriel-does he even realize Judy is using him like
that?"
"From what I've seen, Gabriel isn't completely trusting of Judy," Gus replies, his voice measured. "He's making his own decisions, staying independent. I don't think he's the type to be easily manipulated."
"Well, that's a relief," I mutter. "But I'm more worried about Judy getting her hooks into Cass. I know she'll try driving a wedge between us, and I can't help but feel like this is all part of some larger plan."
Gus leans forward, his gaze sharp. "Cass is strong, Winona. She's not as easily swayed as you think. But I'll keep an eye on things. You just focus on the wedding. In fact, I might even take a trip
to Cancun soon."
He gives me a wink. "What a coincidence."
247
Cancun Wornes
+25 BONUS
I give him a small smile. "Thanks, Gus. I appreciate it."
111 see if Maria wants to join me. Maybe that will be enough distraction from your wedding day for Judy. I'll send her a few pics of the wonderful scenery there.
"That is very evil. But I like it." I laugh. "Gus, why do you care about me so much?"
"That's easy. You are the love of my son's life, and you are the mother to the heirs to Nexus Global. I will always see you have what you need. That is a promise
1 will sleep better at night knowing that." I wish I could sleep better but it's for a whole other reason.
But Jayden hasn't had any more dreams lately. That I know of. I just need to let it go if I'm not going to mention it to him and get it off my mind.
"Is everything okay?" Gus interrupts my thoughts.
"Sorry, just daydreaming."
"How
is Henry?"
"We had a little scare when they tried to get him to bottle feed. We're trying again next week. Jayden will hold him for skin contact this try."
"I'm sure he'll get it this time. He's a real fighter."
"He really is. It's hard to believe that babies so tiny can fight for life like that."
"Instinct
is an amazing thing. When can we visit? I mean, if that's okay?"
"I'm sure it will be, Gus. But he needs
to be out of the incubator and breathing alone. His immune system) needs to be built up more. One small infection could end it all."
"I understand. Let me know if you need
anything."
I look at my phone. "I really have
get
moving. I have the last fitting in an hour, sorry."
Gus stands up. "I won't hold you up any longer. Thanks for the chat."
"Thank you for the chat. I do feel better. You know, I think Maria is good for you. Go for it."
"We are friends. I'm not sure
she is thinking anything more. But if it's just friendship, I'll take it. I almost believe the world can be a wonderful place with her around."
"The world can be, Gus." I think of how wonderful my little family makes me feel lately. "Maybe you just need to believe."
"If only it were that easy. But when you know what I know, then things seem a bit less shiny."
Something about the look on his face, in his eyes, worries me. "Gus, are you okay?"
He gives a small chuckle.
""What?" I ask.
"You might be the only person ever to ask me that."
2/3
247 Cancun Wonies
"Well, are you?"
He nods. "I'm okay. Eyes forward."
"Yes. Eyes forward," I agree.
There's so much more to Gus than meets the eye. I can feel it. One thing is for sure...
I'd rather have him for me than against me.
247 Cancun Worries
+25 BONUS
247 Cancun Worries
(Winona)
"Cass is heading to Cancun soon with Gabriel and Mia for a short break before the wedding." I can't hide the hint of disapproval.
Gus raises an eyebrow. "You're not okay with her seeing Gabriel?"
I sigh, leaning back in my chair. "No. Not really. But what can I do? She's an adult, Gus. I can't control her decisions. And besides, I've got too much on my plate with the wedding and our family."
"Yes, you can't take on life for Cass too."
"It's just. I'm worried. Gabriel. He's older, and I can't shake the feeling that he's using Cass."
I I get it."
"But what is he using her for? I mean, he clearly doesn't need her for a green card or residency with the business shares. It's not like Cass has assets or a fortune in the bank." I shrug.
"Maybe
you just answered your own question. Maybe he likes Cass for who she is. From what I saw, a very remarkable young woman who has no qualms taking care of herself or telling anyone how it really is.
"You have no clue how good she is at taking care of herself, physically and verbally. But it's emotionally I worry about."
"We all
get
over
our
first heartbreak."
"I'm not sure you and I are advocates for that reasoning"
He smiles. "Probably not. We're still hung up on our first heartbreaks. I think Cass will come to you if she gets out of her depth."
"I really do want to believe that. My gut feelings are probably just over the top lately."
"How was Jayden after the whole thing with Judy?"
"Let's just say he was livid, but not because he loves and misses his mother." I don't want to say much more. It's not my place.
"I
guess she will always hope otherwise."
I let out a humorless laugh. "The whole thing with Gabriel-does he even realize Judy is using him like
that?"
"From what I've seen, Gabriel isn't completely trusting of Judy," Gus replies, his voice measured. "He's making his own decisions, staying independent. I don't think he's the type to be easily manipulated."
"Well, that's a relief," I mutter. "But I'm more worried about Judy getting her hooks into Cass. I know she'll try driving a wedge between us, and I can't help but feel like this is all part of some larger plan."
Gus leans forward, his gaze sharp. "Cass is strong, Winona. She's not as easily swayed as you think. But I'll keep an eye on things. You just focus on the wedding. In fact, I might even take a trip
to Cancun soon."
He gives me a wink. "What a coincidence."
247 Cancun Wornes
+25 BONUS
me. Maybe that will be enough distraction from your wedding day for Judy. I'll send her a few pics of the wonderful scenery there.
I give him a small smile. "Thanks, Gus. I appreciate it."
111 see if Maria wants to join
"That is very evil. But I like it."
"That's easy. You are the love
I laugh. "Gus, why do you care about me so much?"
of my son's life, and you are the mother to the heirs to Nexus Global. I will always see you have what you need. That is a promise
1 will sleep better at night knowing that." I wish I could sleep better but it's for a whole other reason.
But Jayden hasn't had any more dreams lately. That I know of. I just need to let it go if I'm not going to mention it to him and get it off my mind.
"Is everything okay?" Gus interrupts my thoughts.
"Sorry, just daydreaming."
"How is
Henry?"
"We had a little scare when they tried to get him to bottle feed. We're trying again next week. Jayden will hold him for skin contact this try."
"I'm sure he'll get it this time. He's a real fighter."
"He
really is. It's hard
to believe that babies so tiny can fight for life like that."
"Instinct
is an amazing thing. When can we visit? I mean, if that's okay?"
"I'm sure it will be,
Gus.
But
he
needs
be out of the incubator and breathing alone. His immune system) needs to be built up more. One small infection could end it all."
"I
understand. Let me know if you need
anything."
I look at my phone.
"I really have
get
moving. I have the last fitting in an hour, sorry."
Gus stands up. "I won't hold you up any longer. Thanks for the chat."
better. You know, I think Maria is good for you. Go for it."
"Thank you for the chat. I do feel
"We are friends. I'm not sure
she is
"The world can be, Gus." I think
thinking anything more. But if it's just friendship, I'll take it. I almost believe the world can be a wonderful place with her around."
of how wonderful my little family makes me feel lately. "Maybe you just need to believe."
"If only it were that easy. But when you know what I know, then things seem a bit less shiny."
Something about the look on his face, in his eyes, worries me. "Gus, are you okay?"
He gives a small chuckle.
""What?" I ask.
"You might be the only person ever to ask me that."
2/3
247 Cancun Wonies
"Well, are you?"
He nods. "I'm okay. Eyes forward."
"Yes.
Eyes forward," I agree.
There's so
much more to Gus than meets the eye. I can feel it. One thing is for sure...
I'd rather have him for me than against me.
""Well, are you?"
He nods. "I'm okay. Eyes forward."
"Yes.
Eyes forward," I agree.
There's
so
much
more to Gus than meets the eye. I can feel it. One thing is for sure...
I'd rather have him for me than against me.
He
nods.
"I'm
okay.
Eyes forward."
"Yes.
Eyes forward," I agree.
There's
so
much
more to Gus than meets the eye. I can feel it. One thing is for sure...
I'd rather have him for me than against me.
2/3
247 Cancun Wonies
"Well, are you?"
He nods. "I'm okay. Eyes forward."
"Yes.
Eyes forward," I agree.
There's so
much more to Gus than meets the eye. I can feel it. One thing is for sure...
I'd rather have him for me than against me.
aware that there isn't good in some people. They don't discuss their grandfather. It's like he doesn't exist. Mia is a livewire. I think because being the youngest and last baby there has been a little more leniency with her. Maria says she is her
artistic one."
"I guess artistic is one way to describe it. But thank you, that information really puts my mind at ease."
That just leaves Gabriel to work out.
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