He withdrew a small velvet pouch. It was my mother's. I'd like you to have it if you're willing. Amelia accepted the pouch, opening it carefully. Inside was a delicate gold band set with a small perfect diamond.
Carrick, she breathed. It's lovely. If you'd prefer something else, no, she interrupted firmly. It's perfect. I'm honored to wear your mother's ring.
Relief crossed his features. Good. That's good. The church was nearly full when they arrived. Word of Carrick Montgomery's wedding had spread throughout the community, bringing folks from neighboring ranches and farms.
Amelia felt a moment of panic at the sea of unfamiliar faces, but Carrick's steady presence beside her kept her grounded. Preacher Jenkins, a tall man with kind eyes and a booming voice, welcomed them warmly. The ceremony itself was simple but meaningful traditional vows exchanged with clear voices. The ring slipped onto Amelia's finger with hands that trembled only slightly. "I now pronounce you man and wife," the preacher declared.
"Mr. Montgomery, you may kiss your bride." Carrick looked into Amelia's eyes, a question in his gaze. She gave a small nod, and he leaned forward, pressing his lips gently to hers. The kiss was brief but tender, a promise rather than a passion. As they turned to face the congregation as husband and wife, Amelia was surprised by the genuine warmth of the applause that greeted them.
These people, strangers, just days ago, seemed genuinely pleased for their happiness. The Brennan's Sunday dinner was a lively affair. Martha Brennan, a motherly woman in her 50s, embraced Amelia as though they were long lost relatives rather than new acquaintances. "We're so pleased Carrick finally found someone," she told Amelia as they prepared to serve the feast. That man needed a good woman in his life.
I hope I can be that for him, Amelia said honestly. Martha patted her hand. You already are, dear. I haven't seen him smile this much since he arrived in the territory. The dinner conversation flowed easily with Joseph Brennan regailing them with tales of the early settlement days. their children, two grown sons with wives of their own, and a daughter of 17, added their own stories, particularly about Carrick's help during difficult times.
Saved our entire herd during that blizzard of 71, the elder son recounted. Rode out in conditions that would have killed most men. Amelia glanced at Carrick, who seemed embarrassed by the praise. Anyone would have done the same, he murmured. No, they wouldn't have, Joseph said firmly.
That's why we're all so glad to see you settled with a good woman. A man who gives that much deserves happiness in return. By the time they headed home, officially home now, for both of them the sun was setting, painting the grasslands in shades of gold and amber. They rode side by side, comfortable in shared silence. At the ranch, Carrick dismounted first, then moved to help Amelia from her horse.
His hands lingered at her waist a moment longer than necessary, his eyes meeting hers with an unspoken question. "Well, Mrs. Montgomery," he said softly. "Welcome home." The use of her new name sent a thrill through Amelia. "Thank you, Mr. Montgomery."