Page 50 of The Rancher's Jilted Bride

"I'm sor—-aaaah!"

This time around, everyonedidlaugh as the duke swept his bride up in his arms, but as he carried her out of the ballroom, and they saw the way he brushed the top of her head with his lips—-

Oh, my Lord.

The tenderness in that gesture was unmistakable and had most women dabbing their eyes.

It was a merry Christmas indeed, and they were all the more blessed to know that there would always be hope for those who believed.

HEAVEN STARTED CRYINGas soon as they were alone in their suite, and he was gently laying her down on the bed.

"I t-think I'm just s-so happy," she tried to explain as he sat down next to her.

"I know."

His quiet voice had her crying harder.

Because she knew he wasn't lying.

Haledidknow.

Because he felt it, too.

A joy that was like no other.

And one that would always be theirs...because God had meant for them to be together.

Heaven's heart started pounding as she watched Hale reach for the bedside button.

Click.

The battery-powered candles went out, and her heart raced even faster as darkness swept over the room.

She had always thought it romantic if one were to make love for the first time in the cover of the night, but even though she had been too shy to tell Hale this—-

I guess this is just one of those things which the person you love instinctively knows...

Her eyes closed as Hale began disrobing her.

And since her wedding gown was a faithful replica of Regency bridal designs, the process was long and arduous.

But even so...

Hale was patient and efficient as he removed one layer after another. It almost seemed as if he had taken the time to study and master his techniques, and Heaven's eyes stung anew as soon as she thought this.

Even without him saying a word, Heaven was certain that was exactly what her husband did.

Because it was one of those things one instinctively knew...when you loved the other person.

And how she loved him.

So, so much!

And that was why...

The mere sound of Hale disrobing himself had her gulping hard.

Oh, Hale!

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