Chapter 96
96 Loving Couple (Winona)
We spend the next hour arranging his things and making the bedroom look like a shared space. It's not monitored but that doesn't mean authorities can't come in and look.
Tension is definitely there, but there's also a sense of determination between us. We both know what's at stake, and we're willing to do whatever it takes. I'm actually glad I have Phillip back in my corner.
When I look back, he was quite brave in going up against Judy with me before in my work office. She could have revealed him then and there. But she didn't. She seemed happy to let us keep what we had going. I guess
1. me.
because I wasn't trying to be with Jayden. That's always been the thing with her, losing her son to
As we finish, Phillip sits on the edge of the bed, looking worn out emotionally and physically. I wonder how long since he's had a decent meal.
"Winona, I never stopped loving you. Even when I was at my worst, you and Abby were always in my heart."
His words cut through me, and for a moment, I see the vulnerable man I once fell in love with. But I can't afford to let my guard down. Not now. "Phillip. Let's just focus on the task at hand. How long since you've eaten anything?" "I haven't been able to eat much. I had no money for food really and last few nights at the accommodation I just felt nauseous about all of this. I couldn't eat much."
"Anne has the freezer stuffed. Lasagne?"
"You know it's my favorite." He smiles.
"I need some comfort food too. Sorry I can't offer you wine."
"It's okay. Alcohol is probably not the best for me right how anyway. I want to get my life back. I'm an alcoholic. The one thing I have kept up is the meetings. It's been hard but I'm determined to stay dry."
"You should be proud under the circumstances. There's nothing stopping us building a business again for you. You can work from here. I'll ask my parole officer and Gordon."
"I don't want millions again. Just as long as I can pay my bills and live comfortably.
"I think I'll be just as broke by the time I get out of this court case. Of course, I don't need much money in jail."
"Don't talk like that, Winona. You aren't going to jail."
"I really hope not because that almost broke me." I admit. It's nice to have someone to confide in again.
As the evening wears on, we cuddle on the sofa. There are moments of inward awkwardness for me, but there are also moments of genuine connection.
We talk about the good times we shared, the dreams we had for our family, and it brings a sense of normalcy to our reconnected relationship.
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96 Loving Couple
Before we know it, it's time for bed. Phillip hesitates at the bedroom door, his eyes filled with uncertainty." Winona, there's no expectation for anything." he whispers. "I can sleep on the floor."
His words touch something deep inside me, and I feel a flicker of the affection I once felt. I walk into the bedroom. "Thank you, Phillip. I appreciate that. But there's no need to sleep on the floor."
The next morning, the reality of our situation hits me hard. We have to act like a loving couple, share a bedroom, and maintain this facade at all times. I look over at Phillip, who's still asleep, and feel a pang of sadness. This isn't how I envisioned my life turning out. How could anyone imagine the life I've ended up with, all for loving one man. I think it probably would have been way easier without Jayden in it.
But the heart wants what the heart wants. That's the foolery of youth. I don't have to buy into that
anymore.
I slip out of bed quietly and head to the kitchen to make coffee. As I wait for the pot to brew, my mind. races with thoughts of Abby and Jayden. How did everything get so complicated? I just want my daughter safe and happy. Phillip joins me a few minutes later, looking a bit more rested but still worn down. "Morning," he says softly as he wraps his arms around me from behind.
I'm careful to let it happen without reaction. I turn in his arms and give him a soft kiss on the lips. I feel a little twinge of something inside. "Last night was wonderful. I've missed being with you. Sorry I was stubborn for so long." "Hey, better late than never." He grins and kisses me again.
I
"Coffee?" I offer, handing him a mug as I pull away from his arms.
"Thanks," he replies, taking a sip. "I definitely need it."
We spend the day adjusting to our new reality. We hold hands, exchange smiles, and talk about everything except the pending case. It feels strange, almost surreal, but it's necessary.
In the afternoon, Gordon arrives to check on us and discuss the next steps. He pulls us into the private office, ensuring our conversation remains confidential
"You're doing well," Gordon says, looking between us. "But remember, this has to be consistent. Any slip-up could be used against us."
Phillip nods. "We understand. We're committed to making this work."
"Do we have a witness list?"
"We do and pretty much everyone you know is on it," Gordon answers..
"Does that mean Lisa too?" I'll be sad to not have Lisa visiting.
"Not yet. I've gotten you permission for now to see Lise when Shella Hobbs is present just to be doubly sure you aren't discussing the case." 201
96 Loving Couple
"Gordon, are you damn Batman or something? You seem to be able to do anything."
"That's why you pay me the big bucks." He grins.
My heart sinks at this. "Gordon, I know you're worth it but I'm worried I'll run out of money before we get to the end of this."
"That is not something you need to worry about. You have a benefactor."
"What?"
"Your fees are matter what." fully covered no
I'm thinking, is it Jayden? "Anyone I know with that much money would jeopardize the case by funding me, surely."
"It isn't anyone on the witness list. He's not ever going to be on it. Some people are rich and powerful enough to be above the law"
I look at Phillip and I know we both know who it is.
Gus Brennan.