 And Mr. Brown had lived together for more than 20 years, raising their children together and functioning as family. I wanted to marry, but we just never did, Ms. Rice confessed one day. But now, she added, I really think I want to do this, to make this step. It was decided that my wife and I would talk to Mr. Brown about the matter soon, first alone, then with him and Ms. Rice together. When the four of us met together, Mr. Brown seemed open to getting married at last.