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20
There were probably worse places for a brokenhearted person to be than the set of a romance movie shoot. But Landon couldn’t think of any as he stood there, watching Peter throw himself on the sword—figuratively, of course—for Jessica. He couldn’t help but consider his own situation. If only there were something he could do that would make this big a statement.
“That’s a wrap!”
Rourke’s announcement led to an eruption of applause and cheers. The funny part was most of these people would be right back at work Monday morning, but still, it felt like they’d accomplished something big.
“One movie down, three more to go,” Rourke said.
“Everybody head to the food tent,” Landon announced as planned.
Now that it was out that he was a partner in this venture, Landon was comfortable directing things. But he still didn’t want to step on his brother’s toes. This was his deal. Landon was just an investor.
“Time for the wrap party!” Rourke announced.
The local diner was sending over trays of food for their Christmas dinner-themed wrap party. But he was far from a celebrating mood right now.
“Do we need to take all this down tonight?” Christian had come over to stand next to him. He was looking around, his arms crossed over his chest.
All day, it had been like that. People had come to him with questions, just as they would Rourke normally. It seemed the word was out. Landon was more than a set consultant.
“We can do all that next week sometime,” Landon said. “Unless you don’t want it left here.”
“No, fine by me.” Christian shook his head. “This barn is rarely used, anyway. Maybe this movie will be a big hit and people will want to get married here.”
“You could call it the Christmas Card Barn,” Landon said.
“Christmas Card Barn.” Christian nodded. “I kind of like the sound of that. Sorry about Audrie. She’s had a bit of a history of being hurt in relationships. She’s a little gun shy.”
Landon watched as the crew broke down their camera equipment. Normally, he’d be helping, but it looked like everyone had things under control. Rourke was even standing nearby, talking to the male production assistant, rather than pitching in.
After a brief hesitation, Landon spoke again. “I don’t know if I can make it right. I sure would love to try.”
“You can make it right.” Christian nodded. “You’re not like the others.”
“The others?” Landon looked over at him, unable to suppress his natural curiosity at that statement.
“She had a couple of long-distance relationships that didn’t work out so well,” Christian said. “Those guys weren’t like you, though. They were the ‘lay it on thick, back off when things get a little too serious’ type.”
“That’s a type?” Landon had no idea. He’d obviously led a pretty sheltered life.
“I guess in bigger cities, it is.” Christian shrugged. “Here in Corbin, we’re not quite used to that sort of thing.”
“So, Audrie thought I was like those guys.” Things were starting to make sense now.
“Not exactly,” Christian said. “I’m sure she knew you’re different, but she’s scared. We’re all scared when it comes to new relationships, but if we shy away from anything that might hurt us, we never really live, do we?”
“That’s what I always say.”
That wasn’t true at all. He’d never said that. But it made sense. Maybe he should make it his motto.
“I’ve had a few relationships in my time, but nothing like this,” Christian said, looking over at him. “This is the real thing.”
Landon looked over at him and was blown away by the seriousness in his eyes. He meant every word of it. And he knew Audrie.
“So, how do I win her back?” Landon asked. “I need to do something pretty big, don’t I?”
“Yeah.” Christian nodded toward the scene in front of them. “Something like this.”
