Torn between Matthew's stability, warmth and protection and Ian's instability, passion and sense of adventure, she takes them home to meet the parents. Matthew Meets the Family First, Meredith spends an afternoon with Matthew on a river cruise in Portland OR. Looking forward to meeting the family, Matthew declares he's ready to consider marriage as long as she's ready. She won't open up, saying she's been hurt so many times. He wants to protect himself too, knowing he's not the only one. Then, on to the family — the parents, brother and uncle. Her Dad's impressed when, under questioning, Matthew says he sees something in Meredith's eyes and smile that makes him want to be there. Meredith tells her family she's never met anyone like him, that she feels safe and secure with him. Dad notices that Meredith is glowing and her brother, who had been a skeptic, says Matthew has more intelligence and personality than he'd suspected. After dinner the couple snuggles on the couch. He asks her