Maggie sank into his embrace, wanting nothing other than to remain with him for the rest of their days. She loved him, possibly even more than her children. Which was why this parting was decidedly difficult. Their timing never quite lined up. Their love never quite sufficient.

"I love you." Maggie began quietly, her proclamation firm and unwavering. "And I meant it when I said I can't lose you again. Even now, all these years later, you're still my best friend. No one has ever measured up." She shifted out of his grasp, leaning up on her elbow to look at him. The next words to leave her were weaker, the pain of them obvious. "But, you can't wait for me to be out of mourning. Everyone is already speculating about why you're unwed. There's already horrible rumors circulating about you. Another two years would only ruin you..."