Chapter 50: Be mine
Few weeks had passed since Christian’s encounter with Ashley—and that infuriating Lorenzo. He still hadn’t devised the perfect strategy to win her back, but it was only a matter of time. Ashley had always been his, and the thought of her belonging to someone else now was unbearable. He admitted he had wronged her in the past, but it wasn’t anything that couldn’t be forgiven. After all, he was only human, prone to mistakes. And it wasn’t like she was innocent either... she cheated too, and even tried to pin the result of that affair on him.
Christian left the living room and headed to little Jennifer’s room. He had decided to take the day off to spend it with her. Her angelic laughter and soft coos always melted his heart. Adopting her had been more than a blessing.
As he entered her vibrantly pink room, a small smile tugged at his lips. Sunlight filtered through her curtains, casting a warm glow on her chubby cheeks. Her giggles filled the air, infectious and sweet, as Veronica made silly sounds to amuse her.
"Good morning, sunshine," Christian cooed, lifting her from the crib just as her toy slipped from her tiny grip.
"Good morning, Mister Harrington," Veronica greeted with a slight bow before excusing herself.
Jennifer’s bright eyes sparkled as she wrapped her small fingers around one of his, trying to get it into her mouth. Her eyes reminded him of someone—the same striking sapphire color, the long, full lashes... just like Ashley’s.
He showered Jennifer with playful kisses, her laughter echoing through the room like music. A deep sense of pride and satisfaction filled him, knowing the little cutie was his—just like Ashley and her bastard child would be, soon enough.
He set Jennifer down gently and watched with amusement as she staggered toward a horse toy on the floor. Her unsteady steps were adorable, and her tiny, chubby legs were a joy to watch.
As they played, with Christian pretending to chase her from one corner of the room to another, his thoughts drifted to Ashley from time to time.
Some of his restaurant chains were still struggling, especially the ones she used to manage—now under Kayla’s control. He needed a better plan.
He didn’t mind getting rid of Lorenzo and reclaiming what was rightfully his, but he had to be more careful now. Especially since Lorenzo might be expecting him to make a move after their last confrontation.