339 Loose Ends

(Winona)

I sit across from Phillip, the papers spread out between us like a line in the sand. The buyout offer is sitting right there, glaring at him. I’ve made my decision. This is it.

“I’m offering you the chance to buy me out, Phillip. You take it, or I have other buyers waiting. Either way, I’m done.”

His eyes widen, but I can see the shift in his expression—the surprise melting into something more defensive, even a little bitter. “You’re serious? Just like that? You’re ditching everything we’ve built up again?”

I don’t flinch. “Yes. Just like that. It’s time for me to focus on my family, and I can’t do that while juggling this business. It’s what’s best for me.”

Phillip leans back in his chair, arms crossed. “You’ve always had your own income, Winona. You’ve always needed your independence. And now you’re ready to just hand it all over?”

“Never been more ready.”

“What happened to you? You’re really okay with letting go of everything you’ve worked so hard for?”

“I am,” I say firml