Chapter 18

Ramon POV

She was already moving toward the bed, her attention fixed on Ollie with the kind of focused intensity that had made her successful in every business venture she’d ever attempted.

“And you must be my grandson,” she said warmly, extending her arms toward Ollie. “Come here, sweetheart. Let Grandma get a proper look at you.”

The transformation in her demeanor was startling. Gone was the commanding matriarch, replaced by the kind of grandmother who probably kept cookies in her purse and spoiled children without reservation.

Ollie looked to Lake for guidance, clearly uncertain about this new development. Lake’s face had gone pale, but he nodded slightly, giving permission.

“It’s okay, baby,” he whispered. “Go say hello.”

Ollie allowed himself to be lifted into Elena’s arms, though he kept looking back at Lake with the vigilance of a child who’d learned never to fully trust new situations.

“Oh, you’re perfect,” Elena cooed, settli