I watched, tears clouding my vision, as he walked up the road. He didn't look back. I knew this was as hard for him as it was for me. Although he had said he'd be back, I knew he wouldn't. And I think he knew the same. It was impossible for us to be together. It would have to be a miracle for us to be paired as a marriage. I stepped back after gently wiping away tears under my eyes and shut the door. I let out a few deep breaths. I wanted to run after him and beg him to run away with me, but like I said before, it would be impossible. I looked over to the girls and Miss Jennings, who were patiently waiting in the dining room. I took another deep breath and joined them reluctantly. I looked back out the window, finding Mathias nowhere.