Epilogue

EPILOGUE

CHRISTMAS

N early two months had flown by, and the much-anticipated Christmas day had arrived. Not only were the Donald clan excited to be celebrating such a special day, but also the day of Mae and Niall's wedding.

Being winter, they held the wedding in the dining hall. Mira, Sally and the rest of the staff had decorated the walls with boughs of holly and greenery. Mae was surprised to find that as Chief of the clan, Cam could wed them, and it would be a legal marriage. She had also been surprised that brides of this era didn't wear white gowns. It was Dub Sith, who'd popped in for a chat shortly after their return from Ballygrant, who had informed her of the fact that white gowns wouldn't be the custom for a few hundred years yet. So instead, she'd chosen to wear a dress made of the Donald clan wool tartan. It was warm as well, which was good since the castle tended to be a bit drafty these days.

Niall, donned in his traditional Scottish attire, stood tall and proud at the far end of the dining hall where Cam stood on the dais before him. Feeling radiant, Mae walked down the aisle created by the long tables, accompanied by the melodic strains of a Scottish bagpipe serenading their union.

Mae could see the love in Niall's eyes as she joined him to stand in front of Cam. He held her right hand as they said their vows, promising to love and cherish one another for the rest of their days. As the rings were exchanged, the crowd erupted in applause, their joyful cheers filling the air.

"To Niall and his wife Mae! May they have a long and prosperous life together!" Cam shouted.

Niall wrapped his arms around her, and she looked up at him with a smile. She'd never felt so happy in her life. He leaned down and kissed her in front of everyone and she felt her cheeks heat as there were whoops and hollers around them.

"Bring on the feast!" Cam shouted and the staff scurried to make that happen.

Soon, succulent roasted meats, hearty stews, and freshly baked bread filled the air with an enticing aroma. The sound of merriment intertwined with the lively tunes played by the ceilidhs band, inviting guests to partake in joyous dancing and spirited revelry.

Amidst the celebration, heartfelt toasts were raised to the bride and groom, their journey honored, and their love celebrated. Mae and Niall, surrounded by their loved ones, danced in each other's arms, their smiles radiant and their hearts full of love and happiness.

As the moon cast its ethereal glow upon the castle, the wedding festivities continued. The night echoed with laughter, music, and the warmth of camaraderie, as clan members and guests reveled in the beauty of the Scottish traditions and the bonds that had been sealed on this special day.

As the merry celebration reached its crescendo, a hush fell over the dining hall as Sir Kellan, made a grand entrance. All eyes turned toward him, the flickering torches casting an ethereal glow on his distinguished figure. The joyous atmosphere was momentarily tempered by a mix of anticipation and respect.

Mae was shocked to see him, as they'd only sent an invitation to him and the Laird out of respect. They hadn't actually expected either of them to come, especially not in winter.

Sir Kellan, approached them, a small smile on his face. In his hands, he carried a beautifully crafted wooden box, adorned with intricate carvings, and polished to a gleaming finish. He presented it to Mae and Niall, their curious gazes fixated on the mysterious gift.

"Congratulations," he said. "I do hope you enjoy this, and I apologize for my tardiness. The weather was a bit harsher than I'd anticipated and it took me longer than I thought to get here."

"We appreciate you making the effort," Mae said, floored by his apology.

The music picked back up and around them people began to dance once more.

"I also wanted to thank you again for delivering Brian's things to us." He gave a rueful smile. "I fear some of the behavior I witnessed while here, has made an appearance at home, however, thanks to whatever it was you did, I am no longer required to keep an eye upon him. The Laird has arranged a more suitable companion for him."

Mae swallowed and looked at him slightly with fear. She hoped he wasn't here to find out what that something was. She glanced over at Niall, biting her lip.

"Not to worry, I am not here to bring trouble to your door." He smiled. "Perhaps you will allow me to propose a toast?"

"Of course," Niall agreed.

Sir Kellan, took a glass from a passing staff member and then raised it, and proposed a toast to love, loyalty, and the strength of alliances. The room resounded with the clinking of glasses and joyful laughter as the revelers joined in the toast, their voices united in celebration.

The music swelled once again, filling the night air with its infectious rhythm. Mae and Niall, their hearts brimming with gratitude and happiness, embraced the enchanting moment, dancing with renewed vigor and spirit.

Sir Kellan joined in with the festivities and Mae couldn't help but hope that his appearance and gift would help to bring some peace between the two clans. She looked at her new husband and smiled. Taking his hand, she led him over to join the others in the dancing and frivolity.

"I love you, Niall MacDonald."

"And I love you, Mae MacDonald." He held her close and kissed her. "I cannae wait to start a family with you."

Mae just grinned.

That was a secret she was saving for later.