186 Desperate Bargain

(Ashlyn)

I watch Winona’s eyes, searching for any sign that she might believe me. But all I see is doubt, suspicion, and hate. She’s not going to make this easy, I know that. But I have to try.

This is my last chance, my only chance, to do something right in this messed-up life I’ve created.

To help this baby I’ve created. If I adopt the baby to just anyone, Judy will find it. I know she will. If I leave the baby solely to Jayden, Judy will make sure she takes over again.

The only choice I have is to get Winona to agree to adopt my baby as her own and promise me, if things don’t work out with Jayden, she will fight to keep my baby with her.

I guess I have no real guarantee that will happen, but I know Winona and if she makes a promise she always tries to keep it. Especially as a mother.

“I need you to believe me,” I say, my voice cracking slightly. I hate how weak I sound, but it’s the truth. I am weak right now, weaker than I’ve ever been.

Winona’s expression doesn’t change. She jus