Page 50 of Claiming My Grumpy Ex

Elena’s eyes sparkled as she pondered her idea. “What if you used the money to build an athletic complex in Beaver Creek?There’s nothing there like the one here in Cedar Cove, and I know it would make such a difference for the community. Plus, Jake could watch it develop—see how projects like that come to life.”

I grinned, already envisioning it. “That’s an incredible idea. It’s exactly the kind of project the foundation was created for. And who knows? Maybe one day Jake will want to take over the foundation himself.”

Elena laughed softly, settling back against me. “Let’s not put too much on his plate just yet. He’s still figuring out how to hang ornaments without breaking them.”

I chuckled, pulling her a little closer. “Fair enough. But still, this… all of it… it feels like the start of something I never dared to dream about.”

“Yes, it is like a dream come true,” she said softly. “And I’m so glad we’re doing it together.” A smile played on her lips as she added, “I can’t wait to tell the gals atReflections. I’m going to need their help—a lot—since we don’t have much time. I can afford to close the salon for a bit and pay them their regular salary while they plan the decorations, figure out the reception… all the details.”

“Sounds like you’ve already got it all mapped out,” I teased.

She laughed, the sound warm and easy.

We stayed on the couch, wrapped in quiet conversation, our plans weaving together seamlessly—talking about the hardware store, the wedding, and the baby. Our words drifted between the practical and the dreamy, the kind of talk that made the future feel both exciting and attainable. By the time we noticed the clock, it was well past midnight, and the house had settled into a deep, peaceful stillness.

“Guess we should call it a night,” I said, stretching slightly as I stood. I reached for her hand, pulling her up with me. “But I’ll say this—I wouldn’t trade nights like this for anything.”

She smiled, her fingers lacing through mine. “Neither would I.”

Hand in hand, we made our way down the hall, the holiday ambiance following us as if to remind us of all the good things waiting just around the corner. As we passed Jake’s room, Elena stopped, her fingers tightening around mine. She nudged the door open just enough for us to peek inside.

Jake was sprawled across his bed, tangled in his blankets. His face was peaceful, and his earlier excitement had given way to the quiet of deep sleep.

Elena smiled and whispered, “He’s going to be such a great big brother.”

I nodded, my heart swelling as I watched him. “Yeah, he will be. He’s already so protective. Can you imagine how he’ll be once his little brother’s here?”

Elena turned to me, one eyebrow raised, her lips curving into a teasing smile. “His little brother? What makes you so sure it’s a boy? What if it’s a girl?”

I chuckled softly. “Then he’ll likely become intrigued and even more protective with what it’s like having a little sister.”

She laughed and nestled her head against my shoulder. “You might be right about that. You know how us gals can be.”

Her words lingered, and I found myself smiling at the thought. My gaze shifted back to Jake, his young frame curled up under the blanket, and a wave of gratitude washed over me. He has so much ahead of him, so much to learn, to experience—and now, he would have someone to share it all with.

I nodded, imagining the bond they’d have, and added, “He’s going to have so many stories to tell. And they’re going to look up to him so much. I hope I can teach him what he needs to know to be that kind of big brother—and maybe even the kind of person who could take over the foundation one day.”

Elena tilted her head to look at me, her eyes soft. “You’re already teaching him, Cory. Every day, just by being here.”

Her words settled over me, warm and reassuring. I wrapped my arm around her and pulled her closer, my gaze lingering on Jake’s peaceful face.

We stood there for a little longer, savoring the quiet promise of the future, before gently closing his door and continuing down the hall. As we slipped into our room, I felt the excitement of everything I had to look forward to: a wedding, a new baby, a growing family. And most of all, a future filled with love, laughter, and a life I’d never dared to dream of before now.

Twenty-Four

Elena

Christmas Eve

The bride’s room was quiet, with only the soft rustle of fabric breaking the stillness as I adjusted the skirt of my dress. In the full-length mirror, an image stared back at me that I could hardly believe was mine. Simple yet elegant, the empire-waist gown felt like the perfect choice. Soft folds draped gracefully over my growing belly, making me feel like the most beautiful version of myself.

I smoothed my hands over the delicate lace detailing along the bodice, my fingers trembling slightly. I wasn’t nervous—not about marrying Cory—but the enormity of this moment felt like it was settling over me all at once.

The door creaked open behind me, and I turned to see my mom stepping inside, her eyes lighting up the second she saw me. “Elena,” she breathed, pressing a hand to her chest. “You look stunning.”

A lump rose in my throat as I watched her cross the room, her soft lavender dress swaying with her movements. “Thanks, Mom,” I said, my voice catching.

She reached out, gently adjusting the veil draped over my shoulders. “Hold still,” she said, her tone light but affectionate. “Let’s make sure everything is perfect.”

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