That was why he’d come with his comrades: to thank the man in person, on his daughter’s wedding day.

Then he took in the white dress, the empty altar, and Tristan smirking in the background. “But I arrive,” Shawn said, his eyes flashing, “and I find the brave man who saved my life apologizing for being a worker.”

He turned to me with plain respect. “Maisie, I won’t take advantage of your pain, and I won’t ask for an answer you’re in no state to give. But there’s something I want to say in front of everyone.”

He drew a breath so the whole room could hear him. “A woman who defends her father with that much dignity deserves the highest respect. If you ever let me court you properly, my intention is to marry you and honor your family.”

The room went silent as people tried to process it.

Tristan burst out laughing, trying to cover his embarrassment. “Picking up what I left behind, Commander?”