Page 10 of Pucking My Off-Limits Billionaire Boss
"Let's sit down for some coffee," my mom suggests, heading to the kitchen.
We gather in the dining room, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the scent of blooming flowers wafting in from the open windows. I take a seat, feeling a sense of peace that's been elusive these past few years. There's a comfort in being surrounded by family, in a home that holds so many chapters of my life.
Settling into the familiar comfort of the dining room, the conversation naturally turns towards welcoming me back. My parents, ever the nurturing types, are full of questions and comments, the kind that only family can get away with.
"So, how's Carter taking the big move from LA?" Mom asks, pouring a generous amount of cream into her coffee.
I glance at Carter, who's completely engrossed in his new toys, a picture of contentment. "He's as resilient as ever. Kid's tough," I say with a hint of pride. "But it's definitely going to be an adjustment. LA and Cedarwood are worlds apart."
Dad nods, taking a thoughtful sip of his coffee. "You're not regretting stepping down from your hockey career, are you, Jake? That was a big decision."
I shake my head, the answer coming easily. "Not even a little, Dad. I've already missed enough of Carter's life as it is. I don't want to blink and find out another three years have flown by while I'm on the road, leaving him with nannies. It's time for a change."
Mom's expression softens, but there's a hint of something else in her eyes. "Carter's a lot like his mother, isn't he?" she remarks, almost wistfully.
The atmosphere shifts, a shadow falling over the table at the mention of Carter's mom. It's a topic we've all danced around, the unspoken pain and loss still lingering like a faint scar.
I clear my throat, my chest tightening at the thought. "Yeah, it's not easy for a kid to lose his mom. But like I said, Carter's strong. He's handling it as well as any kid could." I force a smile, trying to steer the conversation away from the somber territory. "Anyway, how are Max and Hailey and Charlotte? I heard they're in town?"
Mom brightens up at the change of topic. "Oh, yes, they're on a nature trip for the weekend, doing a little hiking down south.”
Dad chuckles, a twinkle in his eye. "I told Max to enjoy the peace while it lasts. Once they're back in Seattle, it's back to reality."
I laugh, thinking about my old friend and my sister. "They deserve it. Good for them."
We chat more about Max and Hailey, and how the town has changed since I've been gone. It feels good to catch up, to be back in the loop of Cedarwood life. But as we talk, part of my mind is still on Carter, on the journey ahead for the both of us, and on the new challenges and opportunities that await.
This move is more than just a change of scenery; it's a fresh start, a chance to be the father I want to be for Carter. And as much as I loved hockey, loved the thrill of the game, this—being here with my family, with my son—this is where I need to be. Cedarwood might be small, but it's got everything that matters to me now.
Dad leans back in his chair, a look of pride evident on his face. "You've done well for yourself these last few years, Jake. Those investments and sponsorship deals have really paid off. From what you’ve told me, you've got quite the nest egg."
I shrug nonchalantly, picking at a piece of crust on my plate. "Sure, the money's good, but it's not everything. I only care about it as far as it helps me provide for my family. That's the priority."
"But," I add, a mischievous glint in my eye, "I do have some big plans up my sleeve for my old haunt, the Cedarwood Tavern."
Mom perks up at this. "Oh, that place changed hands after you left. But it didn't do too well. Closed down a few months ago and has been sitting empty since. No buyers."
I smile, feeling a rush of excitement. "Until today," I declare. "I'm planning to buy it back. And not just to run it as a local bar. I'm thinking bigger—turning Cedarwood Tavern into a chain. I want to buy not just the old spot, but thewhole block, turn it into somethinghuge."
Dad raises his eyebrows, clearly intrigued. "That's a bold move. You sure about this?"
"Absolutely," I say with confidence. "I've got a vision for it. A place that's not just a bar but a destination. A mix of sports, good food, a place where people can come together. And Cedarwood Tavern is just the start."
Mom smiles, always the supportive one. "Well, if anyone can make it a success, it's you, Jake."
"The first meeting with the old owners is in two days," I continue. "I've been going over the business plan, making calls. It's all coming together."
Dad nods approvingly. "Sounds like you've got it all figured out. Just remember to take some time to relax, too. You've been going non-stop for years with hockey."
I chuckle, leaning back in my chair and stretching my arms. "Don't worry, Dad. I've got some downtime scheduled. Besides, I’ve promised Carter's a few hikes and fishing trips.”
Carter, overhearing his name, looks up from his toys with a big grin. "We go fishing, Daddy?"
I laugh, ruffling his hair. "You bet, champ. We'll catch the biggest fish Cedarwood has ever seen."
As we continue talking, the future feels bright and full of possibilities. For the first time in a long time, I feel like I'm exactly where I need to be. Cedarwood Tavern, my family, and a future that's mine to shape—it's a new chapter, and I'm ready to make the most of it.
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