Page 38 of The Rancher's Bride
“If that is what it takes.”
“That is exactly what I’ve been dreaming of, Benjamin.”
“Christmas Eve sounds perfect, Beth.”
“Christmas,” she replied without hesitation, her eyes shining with unshed tears, “is the perfect time for new beginnings.”
“Christmas it is, then.” Benjamin couldn’t think of anything more perfect either as he pulled her close once again, their lips meeting in a tender, loving embrace that seemed to bind their souls together for all eternity.
“Bethany Moore!”
Bethany pulled away, laughing. “I have to go.” She pressed a quick kiss on his cheek. “I love you.”
“I love you too.” He held his hands together to help her into the saddle. She adjusted her skirt before blowing him a kiss and turning her horse to gallop towards her family who were waiting for her at the edge of the woods.
He lifted his hand as Joe Moore stood at the front of the buckboard and cupped his hands around his mouth.
“You have my blessing.”
Ben smiled and did a little dance as he headed inside to see what Tessa had made for dinner.
Yes, God had blessed them indeed.
Epilogue
Christmas Eve
Bethany stood near the entrance of the barn. It was a little too warm inside with all the people this year. Her heart swelled with happiness as she surveyed the scene before her. She had always loved community gatherings like this one, where folks put aside their differences and came together to celebrate life’s blessings. She knew tonight would be extra special, as it marked the beginning of her new life with Ben. Marmee said there were seven couples getting married.
Seven!
Bethany could never recall more than three or four couples getting married on Christmas Eve.
“You look beautiful, Bethy.” Bethany turned to see her paappear out of the shadows. “I remember when your ma wore that same dress the night we were married.”
She swayed from side to side, allowing the fabric of the dress to wrap around her legs. “I thought this was the prettiest dress in the world.” Touching the collar and the edge of the sleeves, she smiled at Pa. “We had to add a touch of lace where it got worn.”
“It is still the prettiest dress in the world.” He reached out to pull her into a warm embrace. “I can’t imagine losing you to someone who wouldn’t be worthy of you.”
“He is worthy, Pa.”
Pa kissed her forehead. “I know, sweetheart. I couldn’t have picked out a better man for you if I tried.”
“I think Marmee was pushing Ben my way before I fell into the creek.”
Joe lifted his eyebrow. “Oh?”
“She told Ma she mentioned something to Ben about the winters being long out here.”
“Hmmm. I’ll have to speak to Ingrid about that.” Taking Bethany’s elbow, he escorted her back inside. “I think they are going to get started soon.”
The scent of roasting meat and warm spices filled the air as families mingled around tables covered in mismatched tablecloths. Hay bales were lined up to form benches, and each family had picnic baskets filled with plates and silverware set out for them. Children darted among the adults, their eyes wide with excitement as they eagerly awaited the festive meal.
Her gaze wandered over the many familiar faces, pausing when she caught sight of Tommy in a heated conversation with someone she didn’t recognize. Squinting slightly, she tried to make out the stranger’s face, feeling a jolt of surprise when she realized it was Petunia Beale.
“Can’t believe my eyes,” Bethany whispered under her breath.
“What?” Pa asked.
