Page 39 of The Rancher's Bride
Petunia, notorious for dressing and acting like a boy, stood there donning a dress and looking every bit the young lady. It was as if the rough-and-tumble tomboy had vanished, replaced by this delicate-looking girl with neatly curled hair. The transformation was so complete Bethany couldn’t help but gape at the sight.
“Is that Petunia?” she muttered to her pa, trying to reconcile the image before her with the person she’d known all these years.
As she continued to watch the exchange between Tommy and Petunia, she tried to fathom what could have brought about such an incredible change in the young woman. Were the whispers she’d heard about Petunia’s feelings for Tommy true? And if so, what did this mean for the future of their little community?
“I don’t recognize her, but it looks like Tommy’s got her upset about something.”
“I wonder who she is, then.” Bethany thought as she tore her gaze from the pair and turned her attention back to the celebration unfolding around her. For now, she would focus on her own happiness as she glided across the floor to where Ben stood with Tess and Ted.
Ben stood tall and proud, with a charming smile on his face. His dark hair, neatly styled, highlighted his strong cheekbones and piercing eyes. He exuded confidence and strength, making Bethany unable to look away. In just a few moments, she would be his wife.
As she approached him, she noticed even though he was smiling, there was concern behind his happy mask.
“Is something wrong?” Bethany asked, placing a hand on his arm. She curled her fingers slightly, feeling his muscle tense beneath her fingertips.
“Ted’s been spending a lot of time with Tessa,” Ben replied, a hint of irritation seeping through. “I don’t like it.”
Bethany looked back at the pair, noting the way Ted leaned in close, listening intently to whatever Tessa was saying. “He seems honorable enough,” she offered. “Maybe it’s good for her.”
“Maybe. But she’s too young,” Ben countered, his jaw set in determination. “If he’s truly sweet on her, he’ll have to wait. I won’t let him take advantage of her innocence.”
“Sometimes waiting is worth it.” Bethany reached out and took his hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. “I waited my whole life for you, didn’t I?”
“True, but that doesn’t mean I have to like it,” Ben grumbled, though some of the tension left his shoulders when Bethany gently stroked the back of his hand with her thumb.
“Let’s give him a chance,” she urged, feeling a protective instinct rise within her for both Tessa and Ted. “If things are meant to be, they will find their own way. Ma was young when she married my pa back in Charleston. Ted will show what his intentions are soon enough.”
“All right, Beth,” Ben conceded, wrapping an arm around her waist and pulling her close. “But if he steps out of line, I won’t hesitate to put him in his place.”
“Fair enough,” Bethany agreed, allowing herself to be enveloped in Ben’s warmth as they moved towards the back of the barn where the preacher was waiting.
Ben leaned over. “Ready?” he asked, his breath tickling her ear.
“More than anything,” she replied, smiling up at him as theyclasped hands, fingers intertwining tightly.
The room went quiet as all eyes turned to witness the union of the couples to be joined in matrimony.
“Dear friends and family,” Reverend Billings began, “we are gathered here today in the presence of God and these witnesses to join these men and these women in holy matrimony.” He clasped his Bible to his chest and lowered his head. “Let us pray.”
As the preacher’s voice rose in prayer, Bethany felt a comforting warmth settle around her shoulders, as if the love and prayers of everyone present enveloped her like a protective blanket. When the prayer ended, she and Ben turned to face each other, their eyes locking as they prepared to exchange their vows.
As the preacher spoke the vows, voices echoed through the barn, each couple reciting the to join them for life.
Ben’s voice was firm and smooth as he recited his vows pledging to love her forever. Bethany’s voice trembled slightly when she recited her vows to love, honor and obey.
He pulled a thin band from his pocket and slipped it on her finger, sealing her as his wife from that point forward.
“I now pronounce you husband and wife,” Reverend Billings announced as Ben’s lips met Bethany’s in a tender, heartfelt kiss. It ended too soon, but she knew she’d be kissing him again shortly.
The barn erupted in cheers and applause, but for Bethany, the world had narrowed to just her and Ben, their love shining bright and true amid the celebration.
The applause and cheers of the townspeople filled the barn, a cacophony of joy that seemed to shake the very rafters. Smiles lit up every face, some wet with tears of happiness as they clapped and hooted for the newlywed couples.
Millie ran up to them with Tessa, who threw her arms around Bethany in a tight hug. “I’m so excited to have a sister,” Tessa gushed, “and such a good friend.” She looked at Millie. “I can’t wait to stay the night with your ma and pa.”
Bethany hugged her back just as tightly. “I’m so blessed to be part of your family, too.”
“Ma and Pa said Tessa can stay as long as you want her to, so you can have some alone time at the cabin.”
