Claiming His Heart (English Version)

Chapter 41

Lucy woke up early, the sunlight streaming through the curtains barely touching her skin, yet she felt a surge of energy running through her. Today was Kelseay’s birthday, and she was eager to be part of the preparations. She moved around the mansion almost like a whirlwind, arranging decorations, checking on the catering, and offering a helping hand wherever she could. Her heart swelled with genuine happiness. This day belonged entirely to her cousin, and she wanted every moment to be perfect.

As she moved about, she caught glimpses of Leandro and Kelseay together. The way they laughed, the subtle touches of their hands, the glances full of affection… it was enviable. Lucy couldn’t help but let a small, wistful sigh escape her. Her own love story with Drake remained stalled, caught in a limbo between hesitation and longing. He was cautious, guarded, yet there was something magnetic about him that refused to leave her thoughts. She shook her head, pushing the fantasy aside. As long as there’s life, there’s hope, she reminded herself, a small smile tugging at her lips. Especially when your crush was still very much single.

She returned to her duties, straightening a few cushions, when a familiar voice broke through her thoughts. Her smile froze, and she stiffened in place.

“Hey, is Leandro still upstairs?”

Her heart skipped a beat. “Ah! s**t!” she blurted, startled. She hadn’t realized he was standing so close. Her hand flew to her chest instinctively, eyes wide as she looked up at him.

Drake smirked, clearly amused by her reaction. “You really know how to startle someone. My heart almost jumped out,” he said, his voice calm, teasing just enough to make her pulse quicken.

“You’re overreacting, you know? Hasn’t Leandro come down yet?” he asked, raising an eyebrow.

She matched his look with a sarcastic tilt of her head. “Why, do you see him here?”

“Don’t be sarcastic, Lucresia. I’m asking nicely. Can you answer without the sarcasm?” he replied sharply, the firmness in his voice making her chest tighten.

‘Well, you clearly don’t see him,’ she thought.

“Don’t act foolish. He’s not here, and you’re still asking? Common sense, Drake,” she said, her tone firm yet light, a small edge of frustration creeping in. Relax, Lucy. Remember, you love him. Breathe.

Drake shrugged, turning away. “I don’t know about you. Go find the person you’re looking for,” he muttered casually, as if the matter was already beneath him.

Lucy shook her head, muttering under her breath. “Look at you, Drake Anderson. Has your brain gone dull? Want me to throw some common sense at you?” She couldn’t help the small chuckle that followed, though it was tinged with exasperation. So early in the day and already showing your usual… menopausal mood, she mused, unable to hide her amusement.

Her attention shifted as she noticed Leandro descending the stairs. He moved with a relaxed ease, a subtle smile playing on his lips that hinted at some private amusement. Lucy’s gaze flickered between him and Drake, observing the effortless camaraderie in Drake’s casual fist-bump greeting. Her heart clenched with a mixture of longing and admiration. These two, different yet complementary, shared something effortless. She wished for the same.

Guests began to arrive in steady streams: a cheerful couple with two children, Uncle Isma with a warm, paternal smile, and Leandro’s grandfather, who had arrived just yesterday, his cane tapping lightly against the polished floor. Lucy helped usher them into the spacious living room, feeling a subtle thrill of satisfaction at seeing everyone comfortably settled. Momsie and Papsie arrived shortly after, adding to the lively energy of the gathering.

Lucy moved among the guests, helping with small tasks and smiling warmly. Soon, Kelseay, half-asleep but clearly aware of the excitement—descended the stairs. Lucy greeted her warmly, and the room filled with laughter and chatter as each person offered their birthday wishes.

“Happy birthday, cous’!” Lucy called out, stepping forward with genuine joy.

“Happy birthday, Kelseay,” Drake added, his voice steady and sincere, though his eyes lingered a moment longer on her than necessary.

“Happy birthday, darling,” Uncle Isma said, a soft pride in his tone.

“Happy birthday, Auntie!” Kylie cheered, and Kyle added, “Uncle loves her, that’s why we love Auntie too!”

Leandro stepped forward last, supporting Kelseay gently as she reached the final step. “Happy birthday to the most beautiful woman in my life. Happy birthday, sweetheart.”

Kelseay’s eyes shimmered with tears as she replied, “Thank you, sweetheart. And thank you all for the warm birthday wishes.”

Lucy hugged her tightly, feeling the warmth and joy radiate between them. Others joined in, laughter mingling with the echoes of heartfelt emotion.

As the group dispersed slightly, Leandro excused himself, leaving Lucy alone with Kelseay for a moment of quiet. She pulled her cousin aside, smiling softly.

“Wow, Kelseay. You really are lucky, handsome and kind. Well, slightly too kind, but still, it’s wonderful. I’m so happy for you. I hope this happiness never ends,” Lucy said, her voice a mixture of admiration and longing.

Kelseay smiled, her own eyes glistening. “Thank you, Lucy. I hope it never ends too. And thank you for always understanding me and never leaving my side. You truly are the best cousin… and best friend. I’m lucky to have you.”

Lucy exhaled, a wistful note in her sigh. “Alright, enough drama, Kels. Let’s get organized and follow your schedule. I have a feeling there’s another surprise waiting.” Kelseay nodded eagerly, and together they began moving around the room, putting plans into motion.

Lucy’s gaze lingered for a moment on Drake and Leandro in the distance, watching their interactions. One day, she thought, a soft determination settling in her chest, it’ll be my turn. Not now, maybe not soon. But when the time is right, with the right person… it will happen. For now, she returned to her tasks, her heart full of hope, patient and unwavering.