I wanted to clap, but taking a gander at the other occupants of the room, I’d say celebrating was a little premature. I seemed to be the only one happy with this revelation. Everyone else looked stunned. Some even a little disapproving.

Milly was one of the astounded observers.

As was Dex, who lowered the shotgun reluctantly.

Roane did clap his hands but only to get everyone’s attention. “The Anchor is closing early. Everyone pay up and get out.”

Although slow to comply, everyone followed his orders, slapping coins and notes on the bar before ambling out of the pub with dazed expressions.

First a proposal.

Then Alnster’s own Beatrice and Benedick.

“Let’s go.” Roane held his hand out to me and nodded to Caro and Shadow. She grabbed her laptop as I took Roane’s hand, his thumbs sweeping over the engagement ring sitting on my fourth finger.

“Thanks,” Milly murmured as we passed. “Sorry we ruined your proposal.”

“Nothing got ruined, Milly,” Roane assured her. “Call if you need me.”

I gave her a small smile, my eyes shooting over to Lucas, Vi, and Dex, who were standing in pained silence together.

All three of us let out an exhalation as we stepped outside and Shadow trotted ahead of us.

“You must be feeling pretty pleased with yourself.” Roane shot me a wicked smile.

“Because I just bagged myself a hot farmer or because I was right all along about Vi and Lucas?”

Caro giggled at my side as Roane pulled me closer. “Both I suppose,” he said.

“Well, of course I’m ecstatic about the former.” I studied my engagement ring and felt another wild flutter of excitement in my belly. Dropping my hand, I sighed. “As for Vi and Lucas, I wish it hadn’t gone down like that. Not just because they kind of stole our moment,” I teased, “but because I think they should have been up-front about what was going on. They were obviously sneaking around. Lying about their relationship only makes it look like they have something to be ashamed of, and it’ll make it harder for Milly and Dex to trust them when they say it’s love. I know that’s how I’d feel.”

Hopefully, however, Milly and Dex would come around. I loved Viola. I loved them all and just wanted them to be as happy as I was.