But on the other hand, I wonder if love would be enough for them, because no matter how much Marianne may have loved him, he is not necessarily deserving of her, considering her sterling past and his wrong one. So, whatever input you all may have regarding this, please say. It should very interesting! : }

Personally ,I cannot see how love would be enough at all. As you say he is not necessarily deserving of Marianne. We know his charecter is that of a blackguard.Elinor realizes Willoughby has spoilt his own potential. His too early independence and extravagent habits and idleness had ruined his better nature-his talents and affectionate temper had degenerated, leaving his charecter vain and cold. If he had made the choice of marrying Marianne would they have found happiness? I can't help feeling after the intial fire of passion at best they would have settled into the embers of toleration ;at worst the bitter ashes of disappointment. Perhaps their children-as well as reading poetry together would have formed a domestic glue,if not harmony. Also, W. found himself attracted to M. while intending to re-establish his circumstances by marrying a woman of fortune. M. probably wouldn't give a hoot to find his fortune smaller than anticipated-but he would (especially if he didn't inherit from his cousin). In reduced circumstances he would be unable to indulge in the dissipate habits of the Regentcy buck. Unable to afford expensive London society he would soon grow bored in his marriage to Marianne and would probably blame her for it! This guy never blames himself for anything! He makes excuses, points the finger at others. His conduct is careless and many people end up getting hurt.He even reviles his fiancee as well as Brandon. Imagine the life Marianne wouldv'e had as Willoughby's wife;It does not bear thinking of!! For your choice Mr Willoughby, take a bow. Incidently, I am not saying J.A. was not romantic but she was not a romance writer. She was a realist in her writings so her heroines did not find total bliss as that is not life.