Page 79 of Paradise in Progress
Victoria props her feet on the railing in front of her, mindlessly picking at the label on her bottle.
“Remember growing up, you were always the one I would go to when I needed something fixed? Whether I broke a toy or had some kind of issue at school, I’d always go to you for help.”
“Of course, I remember.” I nod as I turn toward her, wondering where she’s going, which is exactly what I ask.
“Well, it’s my turn to offer my advice.”
“I’m not really interested in your advice, Tori. I already know I fucked up.”
“Yeah, I know you did.”
I scoff, but she continues.
“Look, I’m not here to sugarcoat things, Trist. I’m going to lay it out there and tell you how to fix it.”
Bringing my beer to my lips, I take another sip. “I don’t know if it can be fixed.”
“It can. I know we didn’t talk as often as we usually do while you were here, but when we did, I noticed a change in you.”
I quirk my eyebrow, curious.
“You’re happier, lighter. It’s like she sparked something that you’ve kept hidden for a long time. Hell, it might even be since Asher died.”
I bristle at the mention of my cousin’s name. He was my best friend, the one I dreamed all my dreams with. When he died, my dreams died with him. My future was forced to be Nelson Signature, and while I don’t mind it, it’s never been my passion.
“I know it’s hard to hear his name. The two of you had such a deep connection, but when you were with him, you were free. It’s the same freedom I saw when you were here…with Kennedy. You both are miserable.”
My head whips in her direction. “You’ve talked to her?”
“Well, yeah. She’s my friend, and I had to apologize to her for my dad.Andmy idiot brother.”
“Way to pour salt in the wound.”
“Oh stop, you know I love you.” She waves me off.
“I might love you, but Kennedy and I are done. She won’t even take my calls or answer my texts.”
“She has every right to be upset, Tristan. You blindsided her, and you know it. But don’t give up, not yet. When we get back to New York, you need to apologize to her in person.”
“I don’t think there’s any room for forgiveness. I’ve fucked this up real good. It’s not like I’ve always given her a reason to trust me.”
Her head lulls toward me with a subtle smirk. “Oh, sweet, naive brother. Women are…well, we’re easier to forgive than you might think, especially when we know the guy's heart. And deep down, Kennedy knows your heart. She knows you, Trist, therealyou. Don’t give up on her.”
“How do I do that?”
“Don’t treat her like a project, treat her like your partner. Tell her how you feel about her and prove to her that you’re worthy. Take a leap and fight for something you love. I’ve seen how she’s changed you—or, not necessarily changed, but brought out the old Tristan. Give her a reason to take him back.”
I let her words linger. Kennedy is the only person who knows my deepest secrets and how my vision for my future was completely different than what it is now. Of course, Victoria knows some things, but Kennedy got to see the real me. The side of me I haven’t shown anyone and far too long. I’d give up the company if it meant I could have Kennedy Reed in my life.
Sitting up taller in my seat, I feel hope for the first time in days.
“There he is.”
“Who?”
“My big brother. Who would have thought that getting stuck on an island with yourenemywould be the beginning of your happily ever after? You both bring out each other’s best parts. Not only that, but you’re not the same guy who came to this island, Trist. You’ve grown. I’ve seen it. And I know she has too. You just need to be honest with her.”
“When did you become such a romantic?” I ask her with a chuckle.
