Her words shocked Landon, taking him completely off guard. But her soft gaze never left his as she spoke.
Before he could walk over and pull her into his arms, his father said, “If you’re so willing to walk away to give us peace, why are you even here? Why not just let Landon go?” Samuel asked. He sounded genuinely curious, not angry.
Carrie gasped at the question and Landon took a step toward his father, no plan in mind, but Vivi grabbed his arm.
“I came because I wanted to tell you I was sorry. And to explain that I really do love Landon. Whatever you decide, I understand. But if you can find it in your heart to accept me, I’ll do everything I can to make him happy.” She turned and walked out, leaving them all stunned.
Landon had every intention of following her out, his father’s feelings be damned, but he paused to glare at the parent who’d raised him to be a better man. “How could you–”
Samuel shook his head. “Go after her, son,” he said in an understanding voice. “I’ll be here when you come back. With Vivi. I just wanted to know where her head was. I want the best for you.”
With a half nod, Landon turned and ran for the front door, wanting to get to Vivi before a car arrived to take her back to the city.
* * *
Seven minutes until the Uber showed up. Dammit. Vivi glanced at the house and turned away, not wanting anyone to see the tears streaming down her face.
She’d done what she came to do. She’d faced Landon’s parents and apologized for her brother and admitted her feelings, although she hadn’t anticipated Landon being there when she did. Talk about mortifying. But tomorrow, she’d be able to look in the mirror and know she’d done what she could to salvage a relationship that meant everything to her.
“Vivi!” The door to the house slammed open and Landon strode out, a determined look on his face.
She wrapped her arms around herself and turned to him. “I hope I didn’t make things worse with your family. Your father especially.”
He shook his head, cupping his hands around her cheeks. “You’re one brave woman, Vivi Zane. And I love you, too.”
She blinked, forcing the tears to continue to fall. “I’m sorry your father can’t accept me but I do understand. I just needed to come and explain my side. I wanted them to see me.”
He shook his head and smiled. “You did what I couldn’t. I gave them an ultimatum, though my mother didn’t need one. My father was going to stand his ground, and I was ready to walk away. To come to you regardless of what they wanted. And then you showed up and you softened him.” Reaching up, he threaded his fingers through her hair. “I love you, Vivi.”
Her heart swelled with love for this man who was willing to choose her. “Really?”
He nodded. “Definitely,” he said with a grin. “You know, when I lost my twin, I lost a part of myself. I never thought I’d find anyone who’d complete me. I watched Jason then Tanner pair off, and still, it didn’t feel possible for me. Even knowing my parents had a solid thirty-year marriage, I thought I’d be alone. And then I met you and something about you called to me.”
She slid her hands around his waist. “I felt it, too. At first I chalked it up to just attraction, but there was a deeper pull. I’ve never been in love before either. But I love you. Enough to put your family’s happiness above my own.”
“Listen to me, Vivienne Zane. You are my happiness. And we’re stronger together. So from now on, we’re a team.”
“A long-distance team?” she asked.
He narrowed his gaze. “Did you get news from Owen?”
She held her breath before telling him, knowing this meant they’d be pulled apart just when they’d gotten together. Would he share in her excitement and joy? Or would the reality make him sorry he’d chosen her?
“Vivi? Tell me.” His hands slid from her cheeks to her forearms.
“Axel – who was on his best behavior thanks to you talking to Owen – offered me my own world tour.”
A few silent beats passed while he processed the news. “Holy shit, Vivi.”
She nodded. “My thoughts exactly.” She pulled her lower lip between her teeth.
Before she could ask him his feelings, he picked her up and swung her around. “That’s my girl! You’re going places and I’m so fucking proud of you!”
He spun her twice until she was dizzy and laughing out loud. “Put me down!” Although he complied, he held on to her, his hands around her waist as he pulled her against him.
“I can’t wait to see you conquer the world,” he said, warmth and honest pride in his eyes.