Chapter Twenty-Two
CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO
MAC
I scroll through my phone as I sip my coffee. Katie and Addi planned this little meet-up, giving me the time and place without much explanation. I’m sure this has to do with Kyle, so I agreed without any push back.
When I glance up, I spot them walking through the door—and sure enough Kyle is trailing behind them. This should be fun.
“Hey,” I say, nodding to all three of them.
They greet me in return and slide into their seats. There’s an awkward silence at first until Katie jumps right in, taking the lead like always.
“Okay,” she announces, clasping her hands together like she’s running a board meeting. “Addi and I decided it was time for you two to get past this nonsense. You’re too old to be acting like children—and the silent treatment is the worst.”
I scoff, leaning back. “It’s not me. I tried.”
Kyle nods in agreement, exhaling. “You did—I should’ve responded.”
“Then why didn’t you?” I ask .
He shrugs and glances at Addi. She gives him a look urging him to talk. “Because I was wrong, and I didn’t want to admit it. I overreacted, and I shouldn’t have come at you like I did.”
The tension in my shoulders loosens a little. It’s not easy to admit you’re wrong—I know that firsthand. It’s something I’m not great at either.
Addi leans forward. “You two have been friends forever. A disagreement shouldn’t ruin that.”
Kyle nods. “You’re right. I’m sorry, man.”
“It’s cool,” I say. “I’ve made my share of mistakes.”
“So does that mean you’ll be the best man at my wedding?” he asks carefully.
I smirk. “Definitely. Especially now that you admitted you were wrong. It might never happen again.”
He chuckles. “True.”
Katie throws her hands up. “See? That took less than five minutes. If you two hadn’t been so prideful, this could’ve been settled already.”
“And you’ll be at the birthday party, right?” Addi asks, making it sound like a demand rather than a request.
“Oh, I was planning on coming to the party regardless—even if I had to crash it,” I tell her. “I’ve missed enough over the years.”
“Good,” she says, satisfied. “Now, I need coffee.”
She and Kyle head to the counter, leaving Katie and me alone. She studies me, tilting her head to the side.
“How’s it going?” she asks.
I already know she’s not talking about me and Kyle. She’s referring to Vivian.
“Not great,” I admit.
She nods like she expected that. “Well, if it makes you feel any better, it hasn’t been easy for Vivi either. ”
Her words hit like a punch to the gut. That’s the last thing I want.
I let out a slow breath. “I understand why she put a stop to this, but I can’t help but wonder if we could make it work. I keep trying to come up with some kind of plan to convince her to take a chance.”
Katie presses her lips together thoughtfully. “I’ve heard of long-distance relationships working, but they’re not for everyone.”
“You’re right,” I say, running a hand through my hair. “No matter what, I don’t regret any of it. She’s amazing—and I’m an idiot for never noticing until now.”
“Yes, you are,” Katie says with a knowing smirk. “But to be fair, you’re not entirely to blame. Vivian is as stubborn as they come, and she already had her own opinions about you.”
I let out a slow breath, nodding. “I can’t blame her for that. Especially after the things I said about her.” Ugh. Every time I think about it, the guilt cuts deeper.
“Well, you can’t change the past,” she reminds me. “But you can learn from it.”
I smile. “You’re very wise.”
“That’s what I’ve been told,” she replies playfully, tossing her hair over her shoulder.
“So, does this mean you’re going to continue trying to play matchmaker for Vivian and Dallin’s friend?”
Her eyes widen slightly. “Huh. I hadn’t thought about that.”
Crap. I just put the idea back in her head. Great job, Mac.
“But probably not,” she adds after a few seconds. “Vivi isn’t interested in him .”
I’m so glad to hear this. I know she’ll find someone eventually, but right now, the thought makes me sick .
Our conversation is interrupted by Kyle and Addi returning to the table with their drinks and an assortment of pastries to share. They settle in and are eager to catch me up on the wedding plans they’ve started putting together. I nod along like a dedicated best man should, but my mind is miles away.
I’ve attended my fair share of events—it comes with the territory of my career. From elaborate galas to intimate parties, I’ve seen it all. But I must admit, the twins’ birthday party is nothing short of spectacular. Addi, along with Claire, the event planner, has truly outdone herself. Every detail is perfectly put together, making it clear just how much thought and effort went into the planning.
The party is at the country club where Addi’s parents are longtime members. The ballroom is cleverly divided down the center—one side dedicated to Kyle and the other to Katie, each reflecting their distinct personalities. Kyle’s half is a bold, blue, while Katie’s side is draped in rich shades of purple, elegant and chic. A massive balloon arch blends the two colors and connects the two sides. Right in the center, is a split cake uniquely decorated—the flavors are half carrot cake and half chocolate—the twins’ favorites.
I arrive early with my parents before most of the other guests. My mom immediately rushes off to find Laura. Meanwhile, my dad wastes no time making a beeline for the bar, and I have a feeling I won’t be far behind him. For now, I hesitate near the entrance, letting the atmosphere settle around me. The room is lit up with string lights, the music is low in the background, and the caterers are moving quickly setting up the buffet table .
I take a deep breath. I’m relieved everything with Kyle is resolved, but there’s still a heaviness in my chest. Maybe it’s because I haven’t seen Vivian since the night she ended things. My stomach twists at the thought. I’m wondering if it will be awkward when we see each other.
Regardless, tonight isn’t about us—it’s about celebrating our best friends, and if there’s one thing we’ve mastered, it’s coexisting for their sake. We’ve had plenty of practice, so this should be easy, right?
I push my doubts out of my mind as I make my way across the room to join my dad at the bar. He’s already deep in conversation with a guy at the counter and the bartender, laughing like they’re lifelong friends. That’s my dad—he can strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere. Both of my parents are like this.
“Here he is,” my dad announces proudly, clapping a firm hand on my back. “The star goalie of the Tennessee Wolves.”
I grin. My dad never misses an opportunity to brag about me, and I’ve grown used to it over the years.
I extend my hand to the man he’s talking to. “Mac Evans.”
“The best man himself,” the man replies with a nod. “I’m Dave Cooper, Addi’s father.”
Ah. So this is Kyle’s future father-in-law. He’s definitely a guy I need to make a good impression on.
“Good to meet you. Addi’s great. Kyle is a very lucky man.” I tell him.
“She is,” he agrees, taking a sip of his drink. “And we really like Kyle. Their engagement was quick, but I’ve never seen my daughter happier. That’s all I care about.”
It’s clear by his tone how much he adores his daughter. And he likes Kyle, which is a good sign.
I signal the bartender and order a drink while the conversation shifts to the one subject I could discuss for hours—hockey. This topic is my comfort zone and helps to take my mind off seeing Vivian this evening. I’m sure once the initial interaction takes place it’ll be fine.
Guests begin arriving, and I see a lot of familiar faces. Many of them I’ve known forever—old friends, neighbors, and relatives I’ve met over the years. I grin and greet everyone I encounter, while my parents take the opportunity to sing my praises. I let them enjoy it while my attention is elsewhere. I can’t help but look around continuously for a glimpse of Vivian.
A sudden burst of cheers cuts through the noise, and we all turn toward the door. Addi and Dallin lead the way, followed closely by Katie and Kyle, their faces glowing with excitement. The moment they step inside, the entire room breaks into song, launching an off-key version of “Happy Birthday . ” I cringe because this is the worst song ever. When is someone going to create a new version?
Still, I clap along, watching Katie and Kyle move through the crowd, greeting the guests with hugs and handshakes. I continue scanning the crowd again. Where is Vivian?
She would never miss Katie’s birthday party. Nothing could keep her from this night.
An uncomfortable feeling comes over me—what if she skipped it because of me? The idea sends a sharp stabbing feeling through my chest.
I need some answers.
I’m about to pull Katie away from her guests when I finally spot Vivian. She steps through the door, a few wrapped gifts balanced in her arms. A rush of emotions surge through me—relief, anticipation, and adrenaline. She’s even more beautiful than I remember, as if that were even possible. She’s wearing a short, flowy white dress that fits her like a glove. Her long hair cascades in soft waves over her shoulders, and for a moment everything and everyone else around her fades. I only see her.
It takes all my strength to physically stop myself from crossing the room and pulling her into my arms like she belongs there.
Addi moves to greet her, and they exchange a few words. I should turn away and stop staring, but I’m unable to. My eyes are locked on her, and if anyone notices, I’ll need to come up with a quick excuse for why I’m acting so weird. Not that I care what anyone thinks.
The only thing that matters is that she’s here where she should be.
Kyle comes into view, and I make my way toward him, weaving through the crowd.
I step toward him, patting him on the back.
“There’s the best man,” Kyle announces after turning around.
“Yes, I am,” I say with a chuckle. “Oh, wait—you mean the best man in your wedding. I thought you were referring to me in everyday life.”
Kyle scoffs, shaking his head. “Your arrogance is boundless.”
“Just speaking the truth,” I reply with a casual shrug.
Out of the corner of my eye, I catch sight of Vivian talking to Katie. Her laughter rings in my ears, a reminder of what I’m missing out on. I’m not sure how I’m going to make it through this evening.
“Everything okay?” Kyle asks, nodding in Vivian’s direction.
I let out a slow breath. “No. But I’m trying.”
Kyle studies me for a moment, his expression unreadable .
“Anyway,” I say, shifting the conversation, “This is quite the celebration. I think Addi might like you a little.”
He laughs. “Yeah, it seems that way.”
“Oh, and I met your future father-in-law,” I add casually. “He’s a hockey fan, so we hit it off instantly. I went ahead and told him all your deep, dark secrets. So, now he’s fully informed.”
Kyle’s eyes narrow. “Not funny, man.”
I chuckle, shaking my head. “Relax. You know me better than that. But it’s a good reminder that my memory is spot on.”
Kyle sighs. “Duly noted.”
I grin. “Happy birthday, man. I’m glad we’re good.”
His expression softens. “So am I. Addi gave me an earful about minding my own business and being a supportive friend.”
“I knew I liked her,” I say with a smirk.
“Well, she’s right,” he adds.
Before I can respond, another guest steps in to offer birthday wishes to Kyle. I take the moment to exhale, and as I turn away, I come face to face with Vivian.
Time seems to slow as our eyes meet, sending a wave of emotions rushing through me. In the dim lights, her eyes sparkle, taking my breath away.
She gives a gentle smile. Without thinking, I move toward her, and at the same time, she steps in my direction, as if we’re being pulled together.
“Hi,” I say, my voice cracking slightly.
“Hey,” she replies. A comfortable energy settles between us.
“This is quite a party,” I say, forcing casual conversation.
“It’s unbelievable,” she agrees, looking away before meeting my gaze again .
I suddenly realize we’re standing in the middle of the room, everything and everyone swirling around us in a blur of movement and noise. But none of it matters.
“How are you?” I ask, my voice low.
She hesitates, her lips pressing together. “I’m hanging in there.”
Ugh. I know the feeling.
“I’m glad you and Kyle worked things out,” she adds.
“Me too,” I say, nodding. “Although I told him I would’ve shown up today no matter what.”
A flicker of amusement flashes across her face, her lips curving up slightly.
“As you should,” she murmurs. The words linger in the air, fading into a silence that stretches between us.
Before I can gather my thoughts, my mother’s voice interrupts our moment.
“Vivian,” she exclaims, stepping forward with open arms, her face alight with warmth.
Vivian turns, allowing herself to be pulled into my mother’s embrace. I watch as she melts into the familiar comfort. I’d give anything to be the one hugging her, to have her in my arms again like she never left.
“It’s so good to see you,” Mom gushes, pulling back just enough to look at her. “You look gorgeous. That dress is stunning on you.”
Vivian smiles. “Thanks, Jeannie.”
My mother glances between us, her expression shifting.
“Well,” she says briskly, “I’ll leave you two to your conversation. We’ll catch up later, Vivian.”
And just like that, she turns and rushes away.
I release a slow breath, shaking my head. “My mother is nothing if not subtle.”
Vivian chuckles softly, but she doesn’t meet my eyes. Suddenly an impulse grips me—a desperate need to tell her that I’m not ready to give up yet.
“Vivi—”
“I should probably check in with Addi and see if she needs anything,” she interrupts, her voice rushed, almost as if she’s trying to escape before I say something she doesn’t want to hear.
She turns to leave, but I gently catch her wrist. “Can we talk later, please?”
For a moment, she hesitates. Then nods slowly. “Okay.”
As I watch her walk away, I feel a tiny glimmer of hope. At least she agreed to talking. I don’t know what I’m doing, but one thing is certain—I’ve never been good at giving up. Maybe there’s still a chance for us…I won’t know unless I try.