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 pa appear 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.

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 they clasped 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."

"That's mighty kind of them," Ben said, as he watched Tessa and Millie run off like two schoolgirls. "See?" He lifted his eyebrow towards Bethany. "Sometimes she acts like she's old enough. Other times she's too young."

"Let's not worry about that right now." Bethany gave him a shy smile. "Do you want to stay here for dinner, or would you like to head home?"

"I'll saddle the horse." Ben gave her a quick kiss on the cheek and practically raced from the barn.

He reappeared a few moments later as Bethany was saying her goodbyes to Marmee and Weston. "I knew several of the couples would leave early, so I already packed you an easy dinner to take with you. It's just ham and some sides, but it will fill you up."

"Thank you, Marmee," Bethany said, accepting the basket.

Ma and Pa walked them towards the front of the barn. "We can't talk you into staying longer?" Ma asked.

"Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Moore," Ben said. "We're grateful for your kindness and generosity, but we should get back home before it is really dark."

"You are welcome to come for dinner tomorrow. We will eat early."

"Thank you, ma'am. I... we appreciate that."

"Of course, son," Ma replied, her eyes misty with emotion as she embraced Bethany, then Ben. "You're family now."

As they said their goodbyes, Bethany felt a mixture of happiness and sadness, grateful for the love and support of her family, but also longing for the quiet solitude that awaited them at Ben's cabin.

Ben lifted Bethany onto his horse, as a sudden burst of laughter and excitement erupted from the barn. Bethany craned her neck to see what was happening, but Ben had already clicked his tongue, urging the horse into motion. She turned back to face him, her curiosity unsatisfied.

"Did you see what happened?" she asked as they rode away from the barn, their families' cheers fading into the distance.

"Missed it," Ben replied with a grin. "But I'm sure it was nothing important." He tightened his grip around her waist, pulling her flush against his chest.

She adjusted the picnic basket so it wouldn't fall off her lap.

They continued in comfortable silence until they reached the bend in the creek where Bethany had seen Tommy's coat caught on a tree branch. The creek waters glistening under the moonlight. Ben reined in the horse, and they stopped to watch the water go by for a few minutes.

"This is where I fell in the creek," Bethany said. "Who knew it would actually make you notice me?"

His arms tightened slightly around her, and Bethany sighed. "I noticed you before that."

"When?"

"I remember you from finding that little girl. I also remember you in town. You were wearing those pants."

"My buckskins?"

"Yeah. I think everyone noticed you in them."

"I didn't want anyone but you to notice me."

"Well, you got my attention. I reckon it was when you screamed about the sheep in the house I truly fell in love with you, Bethany."

Her heart swelled at his words, and she reached for his hand, fingers intertwining. "Please tell me Marigold is in the barn."

"She is in the barn." He breathed against her hair.

"I think I knew I loved you even before that," she admitted softly. "When we first met during the summer, I just knew... I was meant for you."

"Is that so?" Ben raised an eyebrow, his voice teasing. "Quite presumptuous of you, darling."

"Maybe," she conceded with a playful grin. "I was right, wasn't I?"

"Indeed, you were, Mrs. Kendrick," Ben said, his expression tender. "I thank the Lord every day for bringing you into my life."

"Me too," Bethany murmured, her eyes shining with emotion.

"Let's go home."

As they crossed over the creek, she felt a sense of peace and contentment wash over her. This was where their love had begun, and now it would continue to grow as they embarked on their journey as rancher and wife.

I hope you enjoyed reading Ben and Bethany's story. Stay tuned for Tommy and Petunia's story in The Trapper's Bride coming soon!