Page 61 of Wild Spirit Revival

“There’s more.” Elijah’s tone softened. “Miss O’Sullivan’s ability to blend the raw, untamed nature of the frontier with the growing civilization of the West showcases a talent beyond her years. What our readers recently learned was how Miss O’Sullivan narrowly escaped tragedy in a wildfire in Mystic Valley while photographing the magnificent landscape.”

Molly sat in stunned silence. “I had no idea Faith planned to run an article about me and my work,” she murmured.

Elijah folded the paper, his gaze lingering on her. “Seems you’ve made quite a name for yourself,” he said, a note of respect in his voice. “You should be proud. It’s a good article.”

Two weeks passed, each day bringing Molly closer to full health. After supper one evening, as the sun began its slow descent, Elijah invited Molly to take a short walk with him.

“How are you feeling?” he asked, his eyes scanning the horizon out of habit.

Molly took a deep breath, thankful for the crisp mountain air. “Much better, thanks to you and your family.”

Elijah offered a slow grin, a comfortable silence falling between them. After a moment, he spoke again. “Have you given any thought to your plans? Will you still be heading to Seattle?”

The question hung in the air, heavy with unspoken implications. Molly’s steps faltered for a moment.

“Yes, I intend to continue to Seattle,” she said, her voice firm. “But…” She hesitated, a flicker of vulnerability crossing her face. “I was hoping you might consider accompanying me.”

Elijah’s eyebrows shot up, surprise etched across his rugged features. He hadn’t expected this independent woman to seek his company. “You want me to go with you?” he asked, his voice low and gravelly.

Molly nodded, a slight blush coloring her cheeks. “I’ve come to value your friendship, Elijah. And I think having a guide who knows the territory would be invaluable.”

He considered the implications of her request. The ranch needed him, though not as much with Cody’s return. The thought of traveling to Seattle with Molly stirred something deep within him. Grayson had seen much of the country, as had Cody.

Perhaps it was time for him to venture outside the ranch, bring back stories to entertain the family. He gazed out at the vast expanse of Mystic Valley, his internal struggle playing out across his face.

“I’ll go.” His gaze locked with hers. “Under one condition.”

Molly tilted her head, curiosity piqued. “And what’s that?”

Elijah took a deep breath, his heart pounding in his chest. “That you agree to marry me.”

The words hung in the air between them, heavy with possibility and the promise of a future neither had anticipated when they first met.

Molly’s eyes widened, her breath catching in her throat. For a moment, she stood frozen, the only sound the distant lowing of cattle and the gentle rustle of wind through the prairie grass.

“Marry you?” she finally managed, her voice barely above a whisper.

Elijah stepped closer. “I know it’s sudden. These past weeks, getting to know you… they’ve changed everything. I love you, Molly. Your strength, your spirit, your kindness. I want to spend my life with you, if you’ll have me.”

His hand reached for hers, enveloping it in a gentle grip. Her heart beat an almost painful rhythm as she considered his words. She’d come to Montana seeking adventure and independence, not expecting to find love.

“Elijah, I…” she started, her voice trembling. “I never thought I’d want to marry. My photography, my career…”

“I’m not asking you to give anything up. I want to support your dreams while I’m free to fulfill mine. We’d be partners.”

She searched his face, seeing the sincerity there. Memories of their time together flashed through her mind. His quiet strength during the fire, his unwavering support as she recovered, and the way he listened to her ideas with genuine interest had intensified the love she already held for him.

“I love you, too,” she admitted, a smile breaking across her face. “Yes, Elijah Beckett. Yes, I’ll marry you.”

His usual restraint crumbled as he pulled her into a fierce embrace. Their lips met for a slow, tender kiss declaring their promise of a future together. When they pulled apart, Molly felt a warmth the cold night couldn’t touch.

Epilogue

Three weeks later…

The tower bell rang out, filling the air with a joyous sound that mingled with the laughter and chatter of those gathered in the park behind the church. Elijah Beckett and Molly O’Sullivan stood side by side, hand in hand, surrounded by friends and family who’d witnessed their wedding ceremony. Her eyes sparkled with happiness, and she laughed as one of the guests made a teasing comment about her new husband’s stern character.

“He’s not as stern as you think,” Molly assured, squeezing Elijah’s hand. “Are you, love?”

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