Page 48 of The Rancher's Jilted Bride

Because the sight of her crying as she stared down at him with eyes that were full of love and compassion—-

God.

He rose unsteadily to his feet, and she smiled up at him just like the first day.

God.

That was it in a nutshell.

The miracle of her forgiveness.

Her ability to adore him despite the countless ways he had hurt her.

And the way she was now throwing her arms around him.

Only He could've made this happen.

God, God, God.

His heart felt as if it was about to burst.

And all he could do was squeeze his eyes shut.

God.

He had so many things to explain to her.

So many things to ask forgiveness for.

But right now, there were three words he needed to say above all else.

"I love you."

And in response, his Heaven cupped his face.

Gave him another one of her precious smiles.

Before making Hale yank her back into his arms with her answer.

"I love you, too...but can we please get married before you change your mind again?"

"I love you," Hale groaned as he buried his face in her hair. "I love you. I love you. I love you."

Epilogue

Playlist: Joy to the World (Joyful, Joyful) by Phil Wickham (The Chosen: Live)

FOXTOWN ON CHRISTMASwas always a majestic spectacle, with management sparing no expense in recreating a 19th-century Christmas for its guests. Carriages were adorned for the holidays with silver and gold trimmings. Modistes boasted of new seasonal collections to those wanting to make a splash. And as this was often requested, more and more mistletoes were added in the unlikeliest places to help usher "matches" for the romantically inclined.

Invitations to the most coveted balls usually came with the most prohibitive price tags. This year, however, offered a special surprise. Aryan Hale, the Duke of Ice, was to marry Lady Heaven Gaines in a private ceremony, after whicheveryregistered guest of the Regency-themed entertainment park was warmly welcomed to join the newlyweds in this Season's grandest ball.

Aside from a gasp-inducing guest list populated by eligible bachelors (one of which was a mysterious Russian prince who had yet to be named), there were also rumors of a new non-playing character that the management had yet to unveil.

It was the most exciting Christmas yet, but for now...

"Ladies and gentlemen, our newlyweds, His and Her Grace, the Duke and Duchess of Ice."

Thunderous applause greeted the couple as they slowly descended the carpeted staircase, but instead of the traditional waltz, Heaven and Hale were joined by their friends for a wonderfully choreographed quadrille.

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