Page 135 of Revenge

"Do you love me?" I ask again.

"You know the answer to that question." She closes her eyes and lets out a deep breath.

"I'm in love with you, Ava O'Brien. You are the mother of our children. Marry me?" I see the battle in her eyes. "Just say yes. There is no point fighting it."

"Viktor," she starts.

"I'm sorry for everything you have been through since we met. You coming into my life has been the best thing that could have happened to me. You saved my life. Before you, I had nothing to lose. Now I have everything to lose. I lost you more times than I should have already. I don't want a life without you and our kids. You are my life." I confess. Tears escape her. I wipe her tears.

"You broke my heart, and I barely made it out. I can't do another heartbreak. I won't survive it.”

"Tell me what you want me to do? How can I prove to you my commitment to our family? I'll do anything."

"Don't break my heart. Come home every night. Above everything, don't lie or keep secrets. For us to weather the storm, we have to trust each other." I kiss her, drowning whatever else she was going to say. We only break the kiss when we are gasping for air.

"Say it," I tell her.

"Yes," it's the only word I need. I claim her again.

?

I wake up to an empty bed. I look at the time, and it's nearly eight in the morning. I can't remember the last time I slept in. I take a shower and enjoy how happy I feel. Ava saying yes is the last missing piece to the puzzle of my happiness. I get dressed and go into my bag where I've been keeping a new ring for Ava. One that doesn't hold any sour memories. I got the ring shortly after Niko was born. It was only a matter of when I was going to propose. I didn’t think it would take almost eight months before I could ask her. The ring is made specifically for her. It's a four-carat center diamond with our children's birthstone on each side. I know she will love it. I put the box in my pocket and make my way downstairs. The house is awake. I hear the kids and people all around. I look for Ava. I am not surprised when I find her in the kitchen.

"Blueberry pancakes will be fine for Aisling," she tells the chef.

"Good morning," I say from behind her.

"Good morning," she turns. "Coffee?"

"Please." She walks over to the pot. "I have something for you."

"What is it?" I set the box on the counter. She spots it as she brings me a mug.

"What if I said no?" She smiles.

"It wasn't an option." I open the box.

"Is that a ring, I see?" Oliver mocks as he walks into the kitchen.

"Mind your business," I say.

"You should make him wait," Oliver says, laughing.

"Shut the fuck up. She already said yes." I take the ring out of the box and grab her left hand.

"Am I not getting you on bended knee?" She stares.

"Do you want me to?" She is thinking, almost making me question if she does want me to. I'm going to say something when she speaks.

"Just put the ring on," She says, laughing. I pick her up and sit her on the counter. "Viktor, people eat at this counter."

"Ask me if I give a fuck."

"Apparently, you don't." She rolls her eyes. I put the ring on her finger. She turns her hand to face her. "Are those Aisling and Niko's birthstones?" There is a sparkle in her eyes.

"Yes."

"It's perfect." She puts one hand on my face. "You are amazing. I love you."

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