The fact that Ethan didn't notice his butler seemed to be aging really fast, was quite surprising —she thought as she watched him disappear down the hall.

Turning her attention back to Ethan, she pushed the door wide open and it gave way to his large study. He stood leaning over his massive desk, with his back to her.

“Excuse me, Lord Williams,” she began, pushing the door shut behind her. She stood with her hands clasped before her and watched as Ethan turned around to face her, frown immediately settling on his face. She smiled. “I needed to see how you're doing.”

“Where is Jacob?” He glanced behind her.

“I insisted he gets some rest.” She said, covering the distance between them.

Reaching where he stood stiffly by his desk, she paused, her gaze searching his. It was easy to see the fear in his eyes and she immediately knew what it was he was afraid of —his feelings for her.

“Goodnight Juliet,” he murmured, his gaze locked with hers as he stood motionless before her.

Leaning forward until her face was only inches from his, his warm breath tickled her skin. Standing on tiptoes, a small smile curved her lips at the look on his face. “I came because I care,” she whispered.

“Did you leave because you care?” He murmured against her lips, pain lacing every word.

“I left because I didn't have a choice...” She began, the words dying on her lips as he made to walk away from her.

Turning around sharply, she held his wrist. “Ethan!” She cried, leaning forward and wrapping her arms around his waist, her head settling on his chest. “All my life, all my life...” She leaned back with her arms still wrapped around him as she stared into his silver eyes. “I have been manipulated by my guardians. I know you shall never believe me but Elaine and James Winston forced me into this marriage. They wanted the manor and thought by getting me to marry you, they could gain ownership of it. But they didn't and when you didn't, they got furious and they threatened me, forcing me to leave your home.” Juliet could feel tears make their way down her cheeks. “I brought Elizabeth back because it was the right thing to do —difficult, but right.” She sniffed. “When Aunt Elaine found out what I had done —including your plans to get married again— she forced me to come back and try to stop your wedding by taking Elizabeth away.” It was a lie, but she was willing to say anything to convince him, and thankfully, her tears cooperated with her falsehood. “I never, in my entire life, wanted any of this to happen.” She reached forward and touched his face, her eyes searching his. “I have to stand here and watch another woman possess your love —a love I once possessed. But I'm fine with it. I came back to let you know that I'm fine with it and I shall always love you.” She leaned forward, standing on tiptoes. “I love you, Ethan.” She finished, closing the distance between their lips.