“To consider only four weeks ago, you swore you weren’t interested in a wife and a farm. Now you’ve asked to retire to Culreauch Castle with your bride.”
“I wasn’t acquainted with Beth then, but I find the notion of being a gentleman farmer rather appealing.”
Robert chortled.
“I don’t quite believe that. But until the weather thaws, you can remain at Culreauch. After that, we will decide which keep you will become laird of, and you can return to the Highlands.”
Edward breathed easier as he pictured the life he and Elizabeth would create together.
“Little brother, I suggest you get some sleep before the ceremony. I suspect your bonny wee bride will be keeping you up tonight.” Robert laughed as he stepped down from the dais.
Edward made his way to his chamber where he slept and then readied himself for the service.
Chapter 11
Edward stood before the altar and priest as he waited for the rear doors of the chapel to open. He glanced at the priest, who returned his look with a scowl. The same man who informed the queen of his inappropriate attention to Elizabeth was the man who would now marry them. Edward grinned with a sense of vindication, but it did not last long when the trumpets blared, and he caught his first glance of Elizabeth. His breath whooshed from him as he beheld a vision far more exquisite than he ever dreamed. Her father stood beside her, and Edward swallowed as his bride walked toward him. She wore an ice-blue gown that sparkled with silver thread inlaid around the collar and the hems of her sleeves and skirt. The neckline plunged low enough to reveal her creamy pale skin; the skirt was cinched tightly at the waist. Edward once again felt his palms itch to wrap his hands around her and pull her against him. Her chestnut hair had intricate braids looping around her crown, but much of it hung free in waves and curls. If her smile were not so warm, she might have appeared as a perfect ice queen. She shimmered like an icicle as diamonds in her ears and around her throat cast prisms of light as she moved toward her groom. She did not take her eyes off him as she approached. Edward stepped down to greet her, ignoring the gasps as he broke tradition. He took Elizabeth’s hand and tucked it around his arm.
They stepped up to the altar, and the wedding Mass proceeded. They held hands throughout the ceremony, even when it was expected that they would fold their hands in prayer. As the ceremony drew to an end, Edward helped Elizabeth to her feet and drew her in for a kiss. They ignored the clearing of throats and the tsks of disapproval as they took their time and savored the blessing of their union. They drew apart and Edward swung Elizabeth into his arms. He carried her past the crowds and into the Great Hall until they reached the dais. He placed her on her feet and chuckled when he looked up to see someone had placed mistletoe above their seats. He pointed up and nipped at Elizabeth’s neck as she took in the small garland. She pulled Edward in for a kiss as people filed in and took their seats. The rest of the evening was spent gleefully giving in to people’s demand that they kiss.
The feast presented to them was beyond anything short of when the king married. The combination of welcoming Christmastide and a wedding meant they were favored with every possible course. Edward and Elizabeth fed one another as the musicians strummed carols in the background. The festive nature of the holiday along with the hope that goes along with a new marriage filled the Great Hall with cheer.
When the meal was cleared away, Edward escorted Elizabeth to the floor and twirled her around in the dance he spent the last month dreaming about. They danced and laughed until neither had the energy to keep going. Well-fed and merry, they had eyes only for one another. The revelers and merrymakers continued to celebrate even when Elizabeth and Edward shared a look that communicated their need to escape. They retired to their newly shared chamber where they undressed one another and fell into bed.
Edward pulled a small box from beneath his pillow and grinned at Elizabeth.
“Wife, I have something for you to mark the occasion.”
“Is this a wedding gift or a Christmas gift?”
“Open it and see.”
Elizabeth opened the box to find a sparkling emerald set in a gold band. Edward lifted the ring from the satin upon which it rested and revealed a pair of crimson-red ruby earrings. He slid the ring onto her finger and kissed each fingertip.
“Eddie, they are breathtaking.”
“They shine only because they are held by you. The ring is for our wedding and the earbobs are for Christmas.”
Elizabeth leaned in for a kiss as she reached behind her and under her own pillow. When they broke apart, and Edward opened his eyes, he found a long narrow box resting between them.
“Go on. Open it!” Edward chuckled at Elizabeth’s giddiness.
He lifted the lid and found a beautiful sgian dubh that held a jewel-encrusted handle. The agate shone with hues of blue and green that nearly matched his hazel eyes.
“We seem to like one another’s eyes, husband,” Elizabeth chirped.
Edward could not take his eyes from the dagger. It was the first gift he had been given since he was a boy and received the sword he still carried.
“Beth, you have no idea how special this is to me.”
“I noticed you carry a couple of daggers, but a sgian dubh comes in handy.”
“That’s not what I meant. No one has given me a present since I was a lad.”
Elizabeth was sure she saw his eyes glisten, but she would never point it out.
“Then this is a merry Christmas after all.”
They were left to their own devices until they emerged four days later, blissful and even more in love.
About Celeste Barclay
Celeste Barclay lives near the Southern California coast with her husband and sons. Growing up in the Midwest, Celeste enjoyed spending as much time in and on the water as she could. Now she lives near the beach. She's an avid swimmer, a hopeful future surfer, and a former rower. When she's not writing, she's working or being a mom.
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Home for Christmas
by Celeste Jones
Chapter 1
Juniper Junction, Wyoming Territory
Six months until Christmas, 1884
The breath hitched in Josie Lawson’s chest as she stared down into the corral at the Jenko County fair. Her fiancé, Clinton Ramsey, sat astride his horse, Dead Eye, waiting his turn. He glanced up at Josie, easily finding her in the crowd on the makeshift bleachers, and gave her a wink. She blushed and returned his smile, though she wished he’d concentrate on the task at hand instead of flirting with her. Much was riding on the next few seconds.
Clinton was the best calf roper in the area, though a couple of the previous competitors had made good times. It wasn’t just a matter of pride. There was a cash prize for the winner that would go a long way toward setting up their household in a few months, though they’d yet to make any definite plans.
Clinton cared about the money, but he cared more about doing his best and winning. That’s what she hoped for, too.
The sun was hot, and Josie tipped her hat to shade her eyes so she could see better. The crowd was in a festive mood. For one day, chores and crops and tasks and worries were set aside as the people of Juniper Junction and the surrounding areas gathered together for competition, food, drink, and fellowship. It was Josie’s favorite day of the year.
Well, second favorite, after Christmas.
But today, the crowd was charged with excitement and, her own pulse pounded, she gripped the rough wood of the bleacher seat and leaned forward, holding her breath. She glanced around the rails of the corral where men were placing bets amongst themselves while enjoying cigars and beer. It was a day of decadence for the usually hardworking and God-fearing people of
Juniper Junction, Wyoming. Even Pastor Ellis had a drink in hand and a few dollars to wager on the outcome of the cowboy competitions
Josie returned her eyes to focus on Clinton. Watching him filled her with pride and love. Not only was he the best calf roper for miles, but he was the most handsome man in the entire territory. At least as far as she was concerned, and that was all that mattered. Not only that, but he was brave, kind, hardworking, and a darned good kisser.
She let out the breath she held and took in another quick gasp just as the starter gave the signal. Clinton and Dead Eye shot out of the chute and raced toward the center of the dirt arena where a calf ran across the space. Clinton grabbed his rope and easily lassoed the calf on the first try then leaped from Dead Eye with the horse still in motion, ran over and gathered the calf in his powerful arms, flipped it onto its back, wound the rope around its feet, and jumped back, hands in the air signaling completion of the task.
The crowd, including Josie, rushed to their feet and roared their approval. Clinton nodded to acknowledge the applause and touched his hat before remounting Dead Eye and riding to the side to await the official results. Several people around Josie patted her on the back.
“That fiancé of yours sure is fast.”
“I think he was faster than last year.”
“You must be so proud.”
Josie beamed with happiness. And when the head judge presented Clinton with the gold cup and the cash prize, she shouted louder than anyone else then ran down to lean across the fence to congratulate Clinton. He stopped his horse, sprung over the fence, and pulled her into his embrace. Not caring about the crowds or propriety, he kissed her so hard she came up gasping for air. What would have been scandalous and embarrassing any other day of the year was simply par for the course on fair day.
Once again, the crowd went wild, cheering and clapping.
Later, after watching the rest of the competition then walking around the grounds where he was lauded by familiar faces and strangers alike, Josie and Clinton strolled through the nearly empty streets of Juniper Junction.
“I think this year’s fair was the best yet.” Josie smiled with pride at her fiancé.
“It was best because you were there to cheer for me,” Clinton replied.
“I’ve always been there to cheer for you, Clinton,” she chided.
They’d known each other for nearly as long as she could remember. And she’d loved him for almost the same amount of time.
“I know, darlin’,” he clasped her hand in his, raising her fingers to his mouth, and placing a kiss on them, his dark eyes holding hers. Despite their years of friendship and, now, love, Josie still blushed.
“Clinton,” she glanced around, “someone will see.”
He pulled her down a side street and pushed her up against a building, his hands on either side of her head as he leaned over her, his handsome face filling her view. “Let them look. It’s no secret how I feel about you, Josie.” To prove his point, he lowered his face and covered her mouth with his. She melted into him, and he gripped her shoulders and held her in place, not that she had any thoughts of wanting to be anywhere but right there. Forever. When the kiss ended, she sighed and rested her head against his chest. His arms settled around her waist.
“I wish today didn’t have to end.” Her voice was soft with sadness.
“I know, darlin’,” he replied, equally subdued. “But, it won’t be long before we’re able to be together forever. Officially married. You’ll be Mrs. Ramsey. I like the sound of that.”
“I do, too.” She hugged his waist, trying to burrow as close to him as possible. “I just wish you didn’t have to leave tomorrow.”
“I’m a cowboy, sweetheart. It’s my job. No point in raising cattle if we aren’t going to get them to market.” He tipped her chin up and gave her a wink. “Right?”
“Yes.” She couldn’t help but let his teasing tone lighten her mood, if only a bit. “I just never thought I’d miss you so much, and you haven’t even left yet.”
“I’m going to miss you, too, darling.” He kissed the tip of her nose. “But this will be the last one. By this time next year, the railroad will be passing right through Juniper Junction. Can you believe it? We’ll be able to put the cattle on the train right here instead of taking them all the way to Monroe City.”
“Progress is coming, even all the way out here.”
“Yes, and that also means that this year will be the last chance I have to earn that big bonus Mr. Connor pays at the end of the drive. You know I’ll need that to take care of my new bride.” He pulled her close and squeezed her around the waist. “Come on, now, let’s not spoil our last night together with being sad. I’ll be gone just a few weeks, and that’s nothing compared to the rest of our lives, right?” He took her hand, and they continued down the side street until they were on the edge of town.
“What are we doing out here?” Josie asked when Clinton led her to a small house, the very last one on the dusty street. It was really more like a cottage, though secretly she had always admired this little home with its cozy appearance, even though she’d never been inside.
To her shock, he opened the gate, and they walked all the way into the yard. “Who lives here, Clinton?” She stopped, and he did, too. Her head tilted to the side. “We can’t just go into someone’s yard. Plus, practically everyone in town is at the fair.”
“Come on.” He tugged her hand and stepped onto the front porch. “It’s okay, I promise.”
She arched her brow at him skeptically, but went along. She could never say no to Clinton. When he opened the door and gestured for her to go inside, she hesitated but stepped on through.
She could see nearly the whole house from the doorway, but it was just as sweet and cozy as she had imagined.
“Clinton,” she turned to leave, “we shouldn’t be here. We’re trespassing.”
“It ain’t trespassing if it’s yours,” he said. “Well, or gonna be.”
It took a moment for the meaning of his words to hit her and then she whirled on him. “What are you talking about, Clinton Ramsey?”
A big ole grin spread over his face and he picked her up and whirled her in a circle. “When you and Millie were in the baked goods tent, I used my winnings to pay an option on this house.” He set her down and kissed her again. “Welcome home, Mrs. Ramsey.”
“An option? What are you talking about?” She took a step back and studied him. “I don’t understand.”
“I want to buy this house. With the railroad headed this way, property values are going to skyrocket, and there’s already a shortage of houses in the area anyway.”
Josie nodded. “Yes, I’ve heard plenty of talk about that sort of thing at the general store.”
“An option means that I paid the owner money to hold onto this property and not sell it to anyone else until Christmas. By then, I’ll have saved up enough money to buy it outright, and it’ll be ours, free and clear. Our own house. Just the two of us.”
Josie let that all sink in. It was a surprise. She’d assumed they’d have to rent a place, though they hadn’t settled on anything yet. Leave it to Clinton to plan ahead and have such a clever idea.
With a squeal she hugged him tight then stepped back and peered up at his handsome face. “Clinton Ramsey! Don’t you beat all.” She rushed from room to room on the first floor, a kitchen at the back of the house with a pump for water and a big pantry, a sunny room next to the kitchen that would be perfect for their kitchen table—when they managed to get one—then a front room and a bedroom.
“I know it’s not the biggest house in town,” he said when she’d finished rushing around, “but it’s just right for the two of us and, by the time we have a family”—his eyes darkened and Josie’s tummy flipped—“we’ll be able to sell this and buy something bigger.”
“Well, babies don’t take up too much room,” Josie said as they stood in the bedroom. “We could put the crib right over there.” She po
inted to a corner then turned and smiled up at her handsome fiancé again. “Oh, Clinton, it’s just perfect. But you said you bought an option. What about the rest of the price? Can we afford it?” She hated to mar this beautiful surprise with mundane thoughts, but, even on fair day, you had to be practical.
“Don’t worry, Josie. I’ve got it all worked out. With what I’ll earn from the cattle drive, plus what I’ve been saving up—I didn’t spend all my winnings from today on the option—I’ll be able to pay off the balance when I get back, even though Mr. Kent agreed to give us until December 25th to make the final payment.”
“Mr. Kent?” Josie said in alarm. “Oh, Clinton, he’s the sharpest businessman in the territory. Are you sure you want to do business with him? I’ve heard lots of stories about him…” She felt her dream of life with Clinton in the little house on the edge of town start to fade away.
“I know, Josie. I’ve heard those things, too, but it’s a fair price. I talked to him about it last week and had Charlie Howland look over the contract. He said it was pretty straightforward, we just have to pay the balance by December 25th...our wedding day...and we’ll have this house to spend our first night as a married couple in.” He kissed her. “And all the nights after that, too.”
This time, he pulled her tight against his chest and kissed her hard and deep. There was no mistaking the effect on him as his denim pants left little for her to wonder about. Her hands roamed over his broad shoulders and along his back to his narrow waist and slim hips. Daring more than she ever had before, she slipped her fingers into the waistband of his pants and slid them from back to front, yearning growing in her as she touched the flesh beneath his waistline. They’d been engaged for a few weeks and had been sweethearts for two years before that. Her uncle wouldn’t let any man court her until she turned sixteen, though everyone in town knew there was no one for her but Clinton.
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