So he’d remained a dutiful brother-in-law and favorite uncle once Rachel was born, hoping Allison would eventually realize Everett was the better man, that she’d fall out of love with Austin and he would be there to pick up the pieces.

Over the years, he’d even entertained some sort of tragedy befalling his brother, imagining scenarios where he helped it along. But Everett couldn’t see any of those vicious endings through because he couldn’t stand the thought of Allison suffering. He loved her that much.

As a result, he just waited, figuring Austin would pass first, either from the hazards of his profession or the stress of being an overworked male. Even if it had happened late in life, Everett would have taken her for however much time was left.

Now, with this devastating diagnosis, he was going to be denied that as well.

After delivering the news, Austin said he needed to go to Scotland on an investigation—and Everett knew he must go and see Allison.

Looking back, he hadn’t shown up at the Maida Vale house with the intention of pouring out his heart. But he must have known it on some level, as he hadn’t told his brother he was going there in his absence.

They sat on the living room couch where Allison served tea and scones. He commiserated on the horrid turn of events, saying what one does in such situations—how unfair life could be and there must be a way to get through this. Allison took his hand and said there was no hope for her. But she was certain they’d all be fine afterward and that caused Everett to fall apart.

Suddenly, the woman he’d cherished with all his broken heart was comforting him—and three decades of holding everything back poured out of him.

Everett told her he’d always loved her, how he’d do anything for Allison, how she should have been with him all these years, and that there was still time.

Allison let go of his hand. “You don’t know what you’re saying, Everett.”

“But I do.” He put his arms around her and started to plead with all of his misguided soul. “Let me take care of you—let me see you through this.”

Tears formed in her eyes. “That’s impossible, Everett . . .”

But he continued to pull her toward him. “Please, Allison . . .”

He moved to kiss her, but she turned her head away. “Everett, no. Don’t . . .”

She began to struggle in his arms, but Everett wouldn’t let go. He couldn’t. Not when, after all this time, he held her this close. “I love you so much, Allison.”

He kissed her neck. Her cheek. Started pulling at her clothes—unable to stop himself.

“No!” she cried out. And pushed him off her.

Everett reached out to grab her again.