“As a matter of fact, Grace and Sharon were instrumental to my coming here.” He said, remembering the look on Sharon's face as she walked into his study that evening with Rosie —their baby— in her arms.

“I'm not exactly sure how I feel about Gretchen,” She began, settling on the seat across from him. “But I know I'd feel awful if I had to get married in a different country without the people I love around. So, you should go.” She heaved a breath. “I trust you, Matthew, I trust you enough to do the right thing and come home to us.”

Gretchen stopped in her tracks then. Turning to him, her features clouded. “I never got to apologize to Sharon for what I did,” she sighed. “When you return, will you tell her I'm sorry?” She waited for his nod before smiling. “Matthew Steiner, I have been dying to ask you this question,” she took captive of both his hands, staring deep into his eyes. “Would you do the honors of walking me down the aisle tomorrow?”

**

MATTHEW STEINER WAS married.

Ethan knew that much, but he couldn't trust Matthew. Perhaps he was married? Still, it didn't change the fact that Matthew and Gretchen were a couple once and considering the way Gretchen clung to Matthew, Ethan couldn't help but feel jealous.

Did Gretchen still have feelings for Matthew? Did Matthew still love Gretchen? He hated the way these questions bombarded his mind, leaving him reeling in jealousy. He knew he wouldn't take too kindly to a man trying to take Gretchen away, he'd fight that man if he had to, perhaps even challenge Matthew to a duel if he had to. Matthew might be a good five years younger than Ethan, but Ethan had the training of a knight and could handle a sword any day, compared to the farmer whose only skill was probably milking a cow.

Even now as Ethan stood watching them from his balcony, he didn't think he could stand it any longer.

Straightening, he made his way out of the room, through the hall, down the stairs and out of the house. His eyes caught a glimpse of Gretchen and Matthew standing afar off. Making his way toward them, parts and pieces of their conversation drifted to him.

“...tell her I'm sorry...” Gretchen was saying as Ethan approached. “...walk me down the aisle...”

Ethan reached them in time to see Matthew smile broadly, before nodding his head. “Gladly!” The farmer laughed.

Ethan cleared his throat, breaking up the happy couple. They both turned to him, smiling.

“Now that Lord Williams has decided to vacate the balcony and join us down here,” Matthew grinned. “I will leave you two alone.”

Ethan couldn't help but feel embarrassed as Matthew made to go past him. “Congratulations, Lord Williams.” Matthew whispered loud enough for only Ethan to hear.

Turning from the farmer who was now strolling back to the building, he reluctantly turned his attention back to Gretchen, a small smile playing at the edges of her lips as she raised a brow.