Page 33 of Claiming My Grumpy Ex

"Come on, Elena. You're almost there,” he begged.

I clung tightly to his neck, using it as support as I shifted my weight and adjusted my position. The intensity of our movements sent shivers of exhilaration coursing through my body.

"What about you?" I whispered, feeling Cory pulsing within me. His hooded eyes gave away his desire as I began to ride himup and down with more vigor, seeking the ultimate release we both craved.

Our gasps echoed off the water, blending with the gentle lapping against the sides of the pool. The underwater lights cast a dreamy glow, illuminating our intertwined bodies, moving in a fluid dance of desire beneath the rippling surface.

Tonight, this was our secret haven, where we could abandon ourselves entirely to each other, the years between us melting away. As we moved in perfect harmony, lost in the euphoria of sensation, I knew that this was where I truly belonged—in Cory's arms, consumed by his love and lust for me as we climaxed together.

Soon, I felt Cory's strong arms wrap around me and a plush towel being draped over my chilled body. He carefully carried me inside, taking us to a luxurious bedroom suite just a short distance from the pool. He laid me down on a massive bed, its soft sheets and duvet offering immediate comfort.

As soon as my head hit the pillow, exhaustion swept over me, pulling me into a hazy, dreamlike state. A part of me refused to let go of the sensation of Cory’s touch, while another gave in to my weariness.

In the soft moonlight, Cory’s gaze was intense, burning with a desire that sent shivers cascading down my spine all over again. Without a word, he leaned in, his lips brushing against mine in a kiss so gentle, it felt like a whispered promise.

Time seemed to blur as the night continued. His hands trailed over me, exploring, re-learning, cherishing every inch of me with a patience that made my breath catch. It wasn’t hurried; it was deliberate, a dance of longing and rediscovery. Cory’s mouth found the curve of my neck, his breath warm against my skin, and I melted into him, my hands tangling in his hair as if they’d never forgotten the feel of it.

Each touch felt like a confession, unspoken words filling the space between us. The weight of the years apart seemed to dissolve, replaced by a raw, unguarded connection that felt familiar and thrillingly new.

The night found us entwined, the moonlight streaming through the windows, softly illuminating our skin. His voice was a low murmur against my ear, fragments of words I couldn’t quite make out but felt deep in my soul. It was more than physical—it was emotional, a weaving together of all the pieces of us that had been broken and scattered over time.

In the semi-darkness, I whispered his name, my voice trembling. He stilled, his forehead pressing gently against mine.

“I’m trying to make up for lost time. I’ve always loved you, Elena,” he said, his tone filled with a vulnerability that made my heart ache.

When I awoke to full consciousness, the sunlight was beginning to filter through the curtains. My skin was warm, my heart was racing, and my breath was uneven. I lay there for a while, tangled in the sheets, wondering if any of it had been real. But as my eyes adjusted to the light, I realized I wasn’t alone in the bed. Cory was there, and the faint sound of his breathing comforted me.

I snuggled closer and whispered, “I love you, Cory,” before falling back to sleep.

Seventeen

Elena

When I pulled intoReflectionson Monday afternoon, the parking lot was nearly empty. I sighed, grateful to be back but apprehensive about catching up after an unexpected weekend away.

Misty looked up from the front desk as I walked in, her eyebrows lifting in surprise. “Ellie! I didn’t expect to see you today. You know you cleared your schedule. No clients until tomorrow.”

“I know,” I said, giving her a sheepish smile. “I just thought I’d check in, see how things were going without me.”

“Running smoothly, as always,” Misty said with a wink. “You’ve got a packed day tomorrow, though. Better rest up tonight.”

I nodded, a flicker of relief passing through me. The salon was in good hands, as it always was. Misty and the others provided the kind of dependable presence every business owner dreamed of, and I couldn’t thank her enough for that.

As I made my way to the break room, I hoped for a quiet moment to catch my breath and check in with Sarah. Luckily, she was seated at the table, sipping coffee between clients. She perked up when she saw me and set her mug down.

“Look who’s back!” Sarah said with a grin. “How was your weekend?”

“Eventful,” I said, settling into a chair across from her. “Cory’s building was completely destroyed by the fire.”

“Oh, what a mess,” Sarah shook her head.

Eager to be on time to pick up my son at school, I changed the subject. “Jake didn’t give you any trouble, did he?”

“Not at all,” Sarah replied, leaning back with a knowing smile. “Though he did try calling you this morning to ask how you and Cory were doing.”

I froze for a moment, heat rising to my cheeks. “I must’ve been… busy. I slept in,” I said, my voice a little too casual.

Sarah gave me a look but didn’t press. “Luke poked his head in earlier, by the way. He said he’d like you to stop by the gym when you get a chance.”

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