Highlands Homecoming (A Highlands Christmas Romance #3)

Chapter 15

D ave texted Melissa mid-morning, and relief washed over her, knowing that she could stop him. His text read: Got a buyer. It’s a company that wants to tear it down and build a hotel. Boo hoo.

Margaret stood poised and confident behind Melissa, her eyes fiery and ready for battle when she saw the text. She made a quick call, and soon a handsome and sharp-witted barrister appeared, ready to take down the enemy with legal prowess and a flair for dramatic revenge.

“I’m told you’ve got baked goods and a good revenge plot,” he said. “How can I be of service? I’m Andrew Douglas, Margaret’s brother.”

“And the best barrister north of Edinburgh,” said Margaret proudly.

“Maybe this side of Inverness?” said Andrew.

“Don’t sell yourself short, baby brother,” said Margaret.

“Lovely to meet you. And perfect timing,” said Melissa.

Melissa handed Andrew the divorce papers and pointed out the 2-1 date that Dave had scribbled at the bottom. “He post-dated this so he could try to scam his way into co-owning and selling my newly inherited home.”

Andrew looked over the papers and raised an eyebrow. “Well, that’s certainly not playing nice. Fortunately, I have some tricks up my sleeve,” he said.

Andrew read through the documents, then looked at the text Dave had sent Melissa.

“Hmmmm … Yes … Well …” Andrew paused, his index finger tapping thoughtfully against his chin. “I hate to ask, but I have to.” He turned toward Melissa and raised an eyebrow inquisitively. “Does this man play poker?”

Melissa let out a small sigh before answering. “Excuse me?”

Andrew leaned forward, his eyes narrowing as he drilled into her with his stare. “Is he cunning? Can he read people? Is he …” He paused, searching for the right word.

“He’s a glaikit bampot eejit ,” said Margaret matter-of-factly.

Melissa, who had been silent up until this point, looked puzzled at the unfamiliar words. “ Eejit , yes. The rest of that I didn’t really get.”

Andrew threw back his head and let out a hearty laugh. “I think we’re all set then.” He turned to face Melissa. “Now here’s the situation.” He gestured with his hands as he spoke. “In the US, what he did was sly, but the date holds up. In the UK, you’re right—that’s not how we handle dates.” He glanced back at Margaret for confirmation before continuing. “However, it’s not like we don’t understand American dates. But for the good of the cause, I’ll be happy to play the strict and to-the-letter barrister who has a stick up his arse.” His voice dripped with sarcasm as he emphasized the last few words. “I think we can scare him away so he’ll never come back to bother you again.” He turned back to Melissa with a mischievous glint in his eye. “What do you think?”

Melissa's face lit up with excitement as she answered. “Unleash the kraken!”

“Here’s how it’s going to play out,” said Andrew, and the three began to conspire.

Dave’s realtor’s office was a bustling hub of activity, filled with the sounds of ringing phones and clicking keyboards. Colin was already waiting inside when Melissa, Margaret, and Andrew arrived. Dressed in a sharp, polished gray suit, Colin's eyes twinkled as they fell upon Melissa entering the room. Despite his obvious admiration for her, he maintained a professional demeanor and didn't show any signs of recognizing her team.

Melissa exuded confidence and elegance in her favorite Mackenzie tartan dress, complete with matching shoes and her clan pin proudly displayed on her lapel—her version of a power suit. As she took in the scene around her, Melissa couldn't help but feel a sense of importance and determination wash over her. Margaret and Andrew stood by her side, fierce protectors, guarding her back. She breathed a sigh of relief, grateful to have their unwavering support. Though she avoided making eye contact with Colin, she was secretly thankful to have him as her secret weapon in this situation.

Dave sauntered into the office a few minutes later, coffee in hand and sporting a rumpled navy suit and scuffed black shoes. With him were a stern-looking corporate businessman and a high-end realtor, both clearly well-versed in the art of negotiation and deal-making.

As Dave and Melissa stood in the office, a sense of tension hung thick in the air.

"All right. Wasn’t sure you’d show up or be able to find the place, but here you are," he chuckled, a hint of smugness in his voice.

“It was easy,” said Melissa.

Dave's cronies snickered, but she didn't let his teasing faze her. She knew her worth and capabilities, despite what Dave may think. Her attention quickly turned to the matter at hand as Dave continued speaking.

“So, my buyer is ready to close and would like to take possession in the next two weeks."

"I’m afraid that won’t be possible,” Melissa interjected innocently.

“I’ve already made the agreement, Mel. Your opinion doesn’t matter here,” Dave stated firmly.

But before Dave could continue, Andrew spoke up with a mischievous twinkle in his eye. "About that …" he began, drawing out each word for effect. "It seems that you are no longer married to Melissa."

Dave's confidence faltered for a moment before he regained his composure. "Nope," he proclaimed proudly. "We’re still married until February 1st." He tapped on his phone screen and turned it toward Andrew to show him the paperwork.

Andrew put on a show of examining the documents, furrowing his brow and making thoughtful noises. Finally, he looked up at Dave and shook his head slowly. “I’m sorry," he said with mock concern. "I don’t see anything here about February. You’ve clearly dated this January 2nd." He gestured toward the date on the document.

Dave's expression turned to confusion as he checked the date himself. "January 2nd? That can't be right." He studied his phone, trying to understand the confusion.

"In the UK, we put the date before the month," Melissa explained triumphantly.

Dave's face fell as he realized his mistake.

“We don’t accept post-dated documents, or whatever this is meant to be,” Andrew stated firmly, looking pointedly at Dave. “Your divorce was finalized weeks ago when Melissa signed her papers. She wasn't even in possession of Greenhill House at that time.”

Andrew paused for effect, then added with a flourish, “It wasn't until mid-January, I believe.”

Dave's face contorted into a scowl. “This is absolute bullshit!” he exclaimed, his voice rising in anger.

“Colin, you're my divorce lawyer. Tell them,” Dave pleaded, turning to his former attorney with desperation in his eyes.

But Colin simply shook his head, a sad expression crossing his face. “Actually, Dave, I'm not your lawyer anymore. Your constant interference and accusations regarding my relationship with Melissa caused me to be let go from the firm.”

“What’s more, your name is not on the deed to Greenhill House,” said Margaret with a grin.

“We’re not married; you’re not on the deed … You can see where this is going, right, Dave?” said Melissa.

Dave's cheeks went pale, and he stared at Colin, his mouth agape in shock. “You … you can't do this to me,” he stammered.

“I'm sorry, Dave. But it’s been years since I’ve had a license to practice law in the UK, and even if I did, I wouldn't want to represent someone who doesn't trust me,” Colin replied calmly but firmly.

Dave opened and closed his mouth several times, but no words came out. Finally, he turned to Melissa with a pleading look. “Melissa … please … baby … isn't there anything we can do?”

But Melissa stood tall and unwavering, her voice lacking any hint of hesitation or doubt. “I'm sorry about the misunderstanding, Dave. But Colin is right. I’m sure you fellows can find another property that suits your needs,” said Melissa in the most confident and steady tone she’d ever used in her life.

Melissa savored the sweet feeling of satisfaction as she watched Dave's expression of defeat. Justice had been served, and she couldn't be happier.

Melissa confidently collected her purse. “Well then, I'll be off now. Good luck, Dave. See you around the pubs, then.”

Dave retorted with a hint of sarcasm, “I'm going back to America where they actually speak English!”

He stormed out the door, his two cronies following meekly behind him.

When it was all over, Melissa looked at Margaret, and the two of them burst into laughter. Andrew and Colin joined them.

“Tonight, we’re all going to Greenhill to celebrate!” said Melissa.

Melissa couldn't wipe the smile off her face as she drove back toward Greenhill House. The sun was finally beginning to burst through the clouds, filling the sky with a warm golden glow. Ice glimmered on the trees, and the landscape looked like something out of a fairy tale.

As she turned into the gates, Melissa was struck by how beautiful this gorgeous stone home was, with its rolling hills, tall pine trees, and the magical Loch Ness in the background. And it was all hers, forever. A Mackenzie legacy that had been in the family for generations. As Melissa parked her car, she noticed Colin arrive behind her. He emerged from his car carrying a large box.

“I’ve ordered loads of catering from Lindsay. You didn’t need to bring anything, Colin!”

Colin shook his head. “It’s a present I’ve been saving for this moment, and the time has come.”

He set the giant box down on the steps, and Melissa opened it. It was a large Mackenzie clan shield with their motto: Luceo, non uro. Melissa’s eyes filled with tears as she translated the Latin aloud, “I shine, not burn.”

“Whereas, he who shall not be named will probably always fly too close to the sun, you sparkle, my dear Melissa. And you were just brilliant today, inside and out.”

He kissed her and took her hand as they walked into her home.

Later that evening, the house smelled like fresh bread, cozy fire, and pine. Sunlight streamed through the windows, and the view of the snowy hillside and the old wishing well made Melissa’s heart sing. Lindsay, Elspeth, and Sydney brought in trays of food, while Drew set up a playlist of lively music. Sandy arrived looking dapper and flushed, with Margaret on his arm. Caitlin and Angus joined the party via FaceTime, their faces beaming with happiness.

They ate, drank, bantered, and told funny stories, and Melissa added log after log to the crackling fire. As Sandy stood and hugged Melissa goodbye, tears filled her eyes. “Thank you so much for coming.”

“I’m so happy for you, Melissa. You deserve all this and more,” Sandy said, his eyes drifting toward Colin.

Melissa flushed and hugged him again. “Drive safely!”

“I’ve got my personal chauffeur here,” he said, a twinkle in his eye as he took Margaret’s arm. “Margaret, thank you. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

“I guess you’re stuck with me then,” said Margaret.

“Maybe we’ll have to do something about that,” said Sandy.

Melissa's eyes sparkled as she noticed Colin and Lindsay exchange a knowing glance, a touch of amusement flickering between them.

Melissa hugged Lindsay tightly, not wanting the evening to end. Her best friend had been by her side through all her struggles, and now she had finally achieved her dream.

"Thank you for everything, Lindsay," said Melissa as they pulled away from each other.

"I'm just happy to see you happy, Mel," replied Lindsay warmly,

Melissa nodded, knowing that she could always count on Lindsay.

"Looks like we're the last ones here," said Colin, who was standing by the fireplace, the amber liquid in his glass casting a warm glow on his face. She moved toward him, her heart pounding in her chest, her breath hitching in her throat.

He turned to her, and she could see the desire in his eyes, mirroring her own. Without a word, he set his glass down on the mantelpiece, and reached for her, pulling her against him. His lips found hers, and she moaned softly at the feel of his mouth on hers. His kiss was demanding and urgent, and she responded eagerly, her tongue dancing with his. He tasted like whisky and smoke, and she found herself wanting more.

They broke apart for a moment, both breathless, and Melissa could see the heat in Colin's eyes. He ran his thumb over her bottom lip, and she shivered at the sensation.

"You're so beautiful," he murmured, before capturing her lips again. This time, his kiss was softer, more tender, and she melted into him, feeling safe and desired.

They kissed for what felt like hours, lost in each other's embrace, until finally they broke apart, both panting and flushed. Melissa sighed and looked up at Colin, feeling a deep sense of satisfaction and excitement at what was to come.

And with that, they disappeared upstairs.