she was plain verging on ugly, and he was very handsome, and had many very beautiful women around him, one of whom he married and lives quite happily with

One thing I have learned is that I would much rather be with someone who really wants to be with me than with someone who simply believes we look good together. The best thing anyone can do if they are interested in someone who is not in a committed relationship is to talk to the other person. Who knows what can develop. Even if the other is in a committed relationship, you might turn into friends.

Full many a flower is doomed to blush unseen...