But hey, she wasn't hitched yet. The future and its endless possibilities were still up in the air, right?

With that in mind, Karl squared his shoulders.

"Maggie, from the moment I laid eyes on you, I've had a thing for you. I'm not asking for anything in return. Go chase after your real love. But if you ever hit a dead end or you're just too tired to keep going, remember to glance back. I'll be right here," Karl said, pouring his heart out.

His eyes were soft, full of warmth and sincerity.

Maggie felt a tug at her heartstrings and didn't know what to say.

She fidgeted with her fingers. "Karl, I'm not all that great. I'm not worth your time."

Karl grinned. "I know you're worth it. Your happiness is all that matters to me."

“Karl...”

Maggie nibbled her lip, lost for words.

Her feelings were all over the place. She even wondered if she hadn't met Sanford, maybe she'd have picked Karl.

After all, all she wanted was a decent guy who felt the same way and would stick by her side.

And Karl? He fit the bill perfectly.

He wasn't born with a silver spoon, but he was happy with the simple things.

If they ended up together, they could build a life from scratch-a home, a family, everything life had to offer.

Their life would be calm and satisfying.

But then there was Sanford, who gave her a rush and thrill like no other.

That thrill!

No one else could light her up like he did.

It made her want to throw caution to the wind and dive headfirst into the unknown.

"So, are you done or what?"