Her brothers strode back up the aisle, all so handsome and confident, not at all intimidated by those filling the pews: the earls, marquesses, dukes, countesses, marchionesses, duchesses. But then why should they be when their family was slowly expanding to include so many of them? When they reached her, they each gave her a hug and a peck on the cheek.

“Ready?” Mick asked.

She smiled brightly. “Absolutely.”

“No doubts?” Aiden asked.

“None whatsoever.”

“You’ve not known him long.” Finn, who had met his love when he was barely a man, gave voice to his worries.

“I’ve known him long enough.”

Beast, having already said his piece, merely gave her a nod and a warm smile.

“Can we get going?” she asked. “I’m anxious to begin the remainder of my life.”

Mick offered his arm, and she took it. Then he gave a signal and the organist began playing her favorite waltz. It wasn’t traditional, but it was special to her and Matthew.

Mick started leading her down the aisle, her other brothers following. Out of the corners of her eyes she was aware of people standing, but her entire focus was on the man at the altar waiting for her. It brought tears to her eyes to see so much love reflected in the green of his. He was so frightfully handsome in his gray trousers, white waistcoat, and navy coat. When they were near enough, he winked at her.

“Who gives this woman away?” echoed through the church.

“Her brothers,” Mick responded, and then he was placing her hand in Matthew’s, and she thought it had never looked as though it belonged anyplace more.

Matthew seemed unable to recall a single moment of his first wedding, but knew he’d never forget a single second of this one. The other had been a chore, a test of his willingness to endure an unpleasant task. Today none of his thoughts centered around himself. They were all focused on Fancy and ensuring he gave her a day of fond memories—not necessarily to see her through to old age because he planned to give her a good many more before then. But he did want their public commitment to each other to hold a special place in her heart. He didn’t know if his voice had ever sounded more clear, more sure, so strong as it did now while he recited his vows. She was all that mattered. And he’d nearly lost her.

Never again would he doubt, never again would he hesitate. Where she was concerned, he’d always trust his instincts.

She was lovely in her frothy white gown with its wisps of lace and tulle that reminded him very much of a confection, but beneath it all was a woman of steel and determination. When he placed the ring on her finger, he’d never been more sure of anything. She was his, and he was hers.