Canceled-Order Bride (Sons Of A Gun Book 1)

by Brenda Sinclair

  “I loved sewing my dream design.” Amanda chuckled. “And those lovely new petticoats you just donned are a wedding gift from your groom. When Jackson ordered them, he assured me you’d understand.”

  Lily burst into laughter, recalling her suggestion minutes after Jackson rescued her at the old shack. “Yes, I do at that. This is perfect, especially the petticoats. And you’ve included the changes to accommodate my wishes. Like eliminating the bustle from your design. I won’t ever be bothered with one of those again.”

  “I suppose, they’re more popular in the city, and I didn’t mind removing it for you.”

  “All the rage in Boston. Mother insisted I wear a bustle whenever we attended an event together, but I considered them a total nuisance.” Lily glanced at her reflection in the bedroom mirror. Amanda had styled her hair in a bun at the nape of her neck, and then added the beautiful sparkly combs Lily inherited from her mother. Once she was pleased with her work, Amanda settled the ivory snippet of a hat in place. “I hardly recognize myself,” Lily whispered.

  “You’re beautiful. And you’ll leave my brother speechless when he sees you,” Amanda predicted, smiling.

  “Is Sawyer coming to the wedding?” Lily met her eyes.

  “Sawyer’s in town, and he might stay in Milestone,” Amanda hinted.

  Lily gaped. “He can work with the Pinkerton Agency while living here?”

  “He’s considering leaving the agency.” Amanda smiled, coquettishly at her. “Sawyer claims he may have found a reason to make the decision.”

  Lily touched her hand, catching her meaning. “I hope it works out for both of you.”

  Ten minutes later, Lily walked with her father the two blocks from the hotel to the Milestone Community Church on Granby Avenue. At two o’clock, the weather couldn’t have been better with a gentle breeze and bright sunshine in a cloudless sky. Pleasant mid-August weather without being blistering hot.

  In no time at all, Lily found herself walking up the three wooden steps and entering the church where she’d attended Sunday services since moving to town. Reverend Fitzpatrick and his lovely wife had been among the first people to welcome her to Milestone. She’d volunteered on two community projects with the reverend’s wife, and Amanda frequently sang Mrs. Fitzpatrick’s praises for the emotional support and encouragement she’d received following her mother’s passing.

  “You’re as beautiful as your mother was on our wedding day,” Harold Watson whispered in his daughter’s ear, looking handsome in his dark three-piece suit, shirt, and tie.

  “Thank you.” Lily smiled.

  “Are you ready?”

  “I’ve dreamed of this day since I realized I’d fallen in love with Jackson. I couldn’t be more ready, Father.”

  He patted her hand. “I’m delighted to hear it.”

  The first notes of Here Comes The Bride playing on the piano met her ears as they stood in the vestibule. “Let’s go in before my groom changes his mind,” she teased as the pianist continued playing.

  Her father chuckled as they stood inside the double doors watching Amanda, Lily’s bridesmaid and witness, progress down the center aisle flanked by rows of wood-hewn pews. Lily gazed at the church’s beautiful transformation, and a lump of gratitude for the local ladies’ hard work formed in her throat. She would thank them later for their generosity. Colorful late-summer flowers and greenery were tied with gold ribbons and attached to the pew ends. Lit white candles burned on the shelves of the tall glass windows. Two large bouquets of yellow sunflowers, white daisies, and goldenrod blooms in metal urns were situated on either side of Reverend Fitzpatrick who stood up front with the groom and the best man.

  When Lily and her father entered, the congregation stood and watched as Lily walked beside her father, acknowledging a few of her favorite people with a nod as she passed by them. When they reached the front, she couldn’t take her gaze off Jackson standing so tall and handsome. She’d taken extra care when choosing the perfect dress and fixing her hair, and judging by her groom’s broad smile, she’d succeeded in making a special impression on him.

  Her father patted her hand, and then motioned for Jackson to take his place beside the bride. Harold took a step back then joined AJ and the other McLennon men at the front pew.

  Jackson stared at her, adoringly. “You’re so beautiful,” he whispered.

  “Thank… thank you,” she stammered, her emotions running amok. She couldn’t recall a moment in her life when she’d felt more loved. She prayed she wouldn’t burst into tears of happiness.

  “Please be seated,” Reverend Fitzpatrick instructed everyone in attendance.

  A rustle of shifting feet and low conversation rumbled throughout the room as the congregation seated themselves. Suddenly, Lily could have heard a pin drop as people waited for the ceremony to begin. She took a deep breath and prepared herself to become Mrs. Jackson McLennon.

  “We are gathered here today to join…”

  Lily gazed into Jackson’s beautiful blue eyes as the minister performed their wedding nuptials.

  “Jackson Alexander McLennon, do you take…”

  Her groom never looked more handsome. He faithfully wore his Sunday suit to services every week. But he must have purchased a new suit for the occasion as she’d never seen him wearing this one before. And he’d taken time to get a haircut in town. A chore she knew he hated since it took precious time away from his ranch and the animals.

  “Lily?”

  She jolted to attention. “Pardon me?”

  Reverend Fitzpatrick repeated the question.

  “I do,” Lily replied, smiling. She would certainly take this man to love for the rest of her years.

  The remainder of the ceremony was a blur. She must have replied where necessary since her next conscience thought was, shouldn’t her new husband be kissing her?

  “You may kiss your bride, Jackson,” Reverend Fitzpatrick said, as if he’d read Lily’s mind.

  Lily held her breath as Jackson gently placed his hands on her cheeks. “I love you so much,” he whispered, and then they kissed for the first time as husband and wife. Lily felt a tingle all way to her toes!

  “Ladies and gentlemen, it is my pleasure to present to you, Mr. and Mrs. Jackson McLennon.” Reverend Fitzpatrick stood beaming, clasping his Bible in his hands.

  Jackson slipped her hand into his. They walked down the aisle together and exited into the mid-afternoon sunshine. Lily couldn’t believe how happy she was at this moment. If life with Jackson would always be this good, she’d gladly live to one hundred without a single complaint.

  Everyone congregated outside, extending best wishes and congratulations to the happy couple. And then a splendid, ornate carriage pulled by an identical pair of gray horses with jangling harness halted in front of the church.

  “Our transportation awaits us.” Jackson guided her toward the carriage.

  She recalled AJ’s words, that her groom would hire a beautiful carriage. Speechless from her new husband’s kind gesture, Lily met his eyes, anticipating an explanation.

  “Ray Cochrane’s rig and horses. He agreed to lend them to me. That’s Adam driving the outfit today.” Jackson helped her into the carriage and they rode away amid cheers from family and friends.

  “I have another surprise for you also. We won’t be returning to the ranch with the others tonight. I’ve arranged a room in the hotel for us.” Jackson slipped his arm around her shoulder. “And then we’re leaving in the morning for a few weeks away.”

  Lily smiled. He’d warned her they’d be leaving on a honeymoon. “Where are we going?”

  “To the new town of Calgary, in Canada. It was incorporated last year, and I’ve heard wonderful things about it. I’d like to experience it for myself.”

  “I love a good adventure,” Lily agreed. “But going anywhere with you would be heaven.”

  Chapter 37

  Soon, they arrived at the hotel for their wedding picture. Lily suggested it be take
n outdoors, but the photographer insisted wedding photos were taken inside a building with the groom seated on a chair and the bride at his side.

  Lily wouldn’t have it.

  To his credit, Jackson agreed his bride was right and should have her way, especially on such a glorious afternoon. After some debate, Richard Green, the photographer and owner of the newly opened newspaper, Milestone Weekly Gazette, posed them standing together arms entwined under a cottonwood in the back garden. As a compromise, the bride and groom also had a photograph taken in the corner alcove across from the registration desk, posed in the traditional manner, much to Mr. Green’s delight. Lily couldn’t wait to see the photographs.

  Lily shook out her skirts and Jackson helped his bride settle into her chair at the head table in the Milestone Hotel dining room. Heaving a sigh, she relaxed for the first time today. She’d survived the preparations and the ceremony, and now the time for celebration had arrived. Mouth-watering aromas permeated the room, drifting in from the hotel’s nearby kitchen. The hotel owner, Farley Johnson, had guaranteed his cook would outdo himself. He hadn’t lied.

  She gazed at the lovely decorations. White linen tablecloths covered the tables set with white china and sparkling silverware. Small centerpieces created from autumn blooms and large bouquets of flowers and greenery on the serving tables lent color to the usually drab room. A gentleman sat at the piano quietly playing familiar tunes while the wedding guests gathered. Farley waved to her from the doorway leading to the kitchen, and she offered him a smile.

  Jackson sat down and reached for her hand. “Are you happy, sweetheart?”

  “Very, very much,” she replied, breathlessly. With her pre-wedding ceremony jitters gone, Lily realized she was starving.

  She’d forgotten the wedding night nerves remained to be conquered. But knowing she hadn’t a mother to discuss such matters with, Nancy Cameron had sat her down one day when they were alone in the clothing shop. The kind-hearted and caring widow had allayed all her fears with her explanations, assuring her that Jackson would be a gentle lover. She should just follow his lead and enjoy being a married woman, loved and adored by her husband. That must be what people meant by the term ‘wedded bliss’. Despite her few remaining qualms, Lily looked forward to a long and happy life with Jackson, beginning tonight in their wedding bed.

  She covered his hand with hers. “Are you enjoying being a married man?”

  Jackson chuckled. “I’m still pretty new at it. The novelty won’t wear off as long as you’re by my side.”

  “Till death us do part,” she repeated their vow.

  “And beyond,” Jackson whispered, kissing her deeply without one iota of regard for the wedding guests witnessing the moment.

  A few men in the crowd hooted and called encouragement to Jackson who never broke the kiss. Lily opened her eyes briefly in time to catch Jackson waving off their intrusion.

  “Keep some of that for tonight,” Daniel muttered, seating himself beside Jackson.

  Amanda settled on the chair next to Lily. “Leave them alone, Daniel. Practice makes perfect.”

  Jackson smiled and looked into Lily’s eyes. “Oh, we intend to practice. And practice. And practice.”

  “Good. I intend to become an aunt within the year, so get busy, big brother.”

  Lily gasped, feeling her face redden.

  Amanda giggled and leaned closer to Lily. “You’re married now. You’re supposed to be making babies,” she whispered to her friend.

  “That’s right. I… I suppose I am,” Lily stammered.

  “You make me an aunt, and I promise one day I’ll make you one,” she winked at Lily.

  “Agreed,” she replied, laughing. She doubted she’d ever be as happy as she was today. At least, until she looked into the eyes of her first child. No doubt those eyes would be the same blue color as his or her father’s.

  “I’ll be right back,” Jackson whispered and then left her side.

  Mrs. Sheridan approached the table, smiling broadly. “I just wanted to congratulate you again, Lily. You’re absolutely beaming. It warms my heart to see you so happy.”

  “Thank you,” she replied.

  Just then the ranch cook, Sourdough Sammy, approached. “Would you sit with me for our supper, Nellie?” he inquired, smiling.

  “Of course, Sam. I’d be honored,” Nellie replied.

  “I’ll expect a dance later, Mrs. McLennon,” Sammy whispered, teasing the new bride.

  If Lily wasn’t mistaken, he and Mrs. Sheridan were courting, and she couldn’t be happier for them. No wonder the housekeeper had worried about being forced to leave the ranch. “You’re on my list, Sammy.”

  He nodded and tucked Mrs. Sheridan’s hand around his elbow. “Let’s find our seats.”

  Lily smiled as they moved away. She gazed across the hotel dining room, closed to the public tonight for her wedding meal. Her father was seated with Nancy Cameron and her young daughter, Victoria. They looked quite content with their heads together in conversation, perhaps discussing a common interest. She’d hoped her father would find someone to love again. He seemed too young at heart to spend the rest of his days alone. He couldn’t have chosen a lovelier woman. Would Nancy risk loving another bank manager? Only time would tell.

  Lily turned and glanced toward the entrance. Iris Lake stuck her head in the door and gazed around the room. Lily realized she hadn’t invited the new teacher in town. Before Lily could dash over and tell the newcomer that she was more than welcome to stay, Iris had disappeared from sight.

  “Who was she?” Daniel inquired speaking near Lily’s ear, startling her. She hadn’t heard him leave his chair to stand behind her.

  “Her name is Iris Lake, and she’s the new teacher in Milestone. Have you never met her?”

  Daniel shook his head. “Too busy with my training as a deputy for much socializing.”

  “She’s lovely.” Lily recalled the day Iris admired Daniel from afar. Lily gazed up at Daniel; he appeared interested in the schoolmarm as well. Iris had been crying in the park, and Lily hoped she had resolved her problem. But perhaps Daniel could help Iris find peace in her life. “I heard she’s living at Mrs. Carter’s house now that her daughter’s married. Maybe you should invite Iris to supper? Or for a walk on Sunday afternoon? Or a buggy ride?”

  Daniel shrugged and then a smile creased his face as he wandered back to his chair. “Maybe I should,” he muttered.

  “Lily, you’re absolutely beaming.” Emily Carter stepped up to the table. “I knew you’d try to talk me out of it, so I’m just telling you now.”

  Lily tipped her head and stared at the bakery owner. “What have you done?”

  Emily clasped her hands at her waist. “I baked a lovely cake for your wedding. The hotel staff will bring it out after the wedding meal for you to serve to your guests.”

  Lily gasped and her eyes welled. “You didn’t have to do that.”

  Emily waved off her remark. “I know. But I wanted to. You and Amanda are wonderful neighbors and good customers. I hope you’ll be very happy. Jackson is a good man.”

  “Thank you, Emily.” Lily rounded the table and hugged her fellow merchant. “You have a heart of gold. I cannot thank you enough for your kindness.”

  “You’re quite welcome. Now, I need to find Barb and her husband. We’ll talk again later.” Emily hurried off.

  Jackson returned from across the room where he’d been talking to AJ who attended the wedding alone. Lily supposed her new father-in-law would forever stick to his conviction to remain single.

  Lily’s face hurt from smiling already, but Ray Cochrane stopped by the table. Jackson thanked Ray again for the use of the carriage, and Lily added her thanks. She recalled meeting him for the first time when he arranged for Jackson to take her to the ranch. Being married to Jackson a mere four months later would have been the last thing she would have imagined possible at the time.

  Jackson’s Aunt Ruby accompanied the ranch foreman, Lawre
nce Clarke, to the head table next. They chatted, exchanging pleasantries with Lily and Jackson.

  “May I have your attention, folks? Dinner will be served in five minutes. Find a seat everyone,” Farley Johnson announced, as Ruby and Lawrence hurried to find a chair.

  Lily gazed about the room. The wedding list had grown to include half the town once the urgency to wed had been lifted when her father showed up in Milestone with Sawyer Manning instead of William Connors. She smiled at her father and Mrs. Cameron, laughing together over something one or the other had said. Lily noticed Frances Landers glaring daggers at Nancy. Had Lily’s father been in the horrible widow’s sights for her next husband? Lily couldn’t imagine a gregarious fellow like her father married to a demanding, unpleasant woman like Mrs. Landers. Thank goodness, Nancy caught his eye first.

  Sam Perkins shook Jackson’s hand on his way by. The two best friends talked for a few moments, and Jackson laughed at something Sam said before he wandered off.

  “Have you saved me a dance, sweetheart?” Jackson whispered.

  Lily laughed. She’d talked to so many fellows this afternoon, she’d lost track of how many dances she’d promised. No wonder her groom seemed concerned. “You’ll share my first dance tonight and always.”

  “Thank you, Mrs. McLennon.” He kissed her cheek.

  Lily rested her hand on her husband’s arm. “You’re welcome, Mr. McLennon. Keep the last dance for me.”

  “You know I will.”

  She couldn’t believe how much her life had changed this past year. From the heartache of losing her mother in January to arriving in Milestone in April, a disheartened but determined young lady, and a canceled-order bride. Worse yet was facing the ordeal with William Connors, first in Boston and then in Milestone where she feared for her life. But the part that made life worth living was falling in love with Jackson and marrying the man of her dreams today. Coming to Milestone had been a means to escape, but now this small Montana town had become home.