The Seamus Heaney translation says Grendel "nursed a hard grudge." When I see that, I understand a couple of things about Grendel's heart. First, he's bitter, and bitterness is something which hardens the heart. Second, he's nursing whatever unspecified grudge he's got. Nursing implies he's figuratively feeding it, keeping it healthy and growing and alive. Finally, it's a hard grudge. This is not something which will go away on its own over time--especially since he's nursing it.
Given that, Grendel can laugh all he wants and it will never be a joyful laugh. He is likely laughing at the fear and despair and grief of those whom he's terrorizing. This seems similar to so many of the classic movie villains who laugh (or chortle or snicker or roar) when they have their prey in their grasp. It's an evil, joyless laugh, and it must be the same for Grendel.
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