Sleighed by the Farmer’s Daughter (Sweet Christmas Kisses)

Chapter Twenty-Four

“What are your thoughts on living in Hickory Falls?” Seth asked as they listened to the quiet symphony of nature around them.

“I think it’s a great idea. It’s only about five hours from my family, and it sounds like a wonderful small town. You said your brother’s mountain is deed-restricted, with very few parcels available. Where would we live?”

“I spoke with Zach, who owns most of the property in the area, and he showed me a map of the parcels he’s willing to sell. They’re being selective about who moves in to keep the community close-knit. No big box stores or large commercial developments are allowed in the valley. Eric and his friends created a private community called Whispering Pines, where you need at least two hundred acres to build. I love the forest, but that much land feels overwhelming. Plus, you need reliable internet and possibly a storefront for your business. So, I’ve been eyeing a parcel at the base of the mountain. It’s forested with some nice flat areas, about fifteen minutes from Eric and Sarah and about fifteen minutes into town. There’s even a five-minute walk to the lake, though Zach is holding onto all the waterfront property to protect it. If Jason sets up his second garage in Hickory Falls, we’ll be close to him, too, instead of the hour and fifteen minutes it takes to get to his place in Glacier Ridge. I’ve already looked at some potential house plans. Zach said if we commit before October, we could be settled in by spring.”

Mack nodded. “That all sounds good. I’m not too picky about the house design, but it has to have at least five bedrooms and a huge dining room.”

“Why a giant dining room? A standard dining room will hold a table for six.”

“Seth, darling, you’re the oldest. That means we’ll be hosting Thanksgiving from now on. According to everything you’ve told me, Eric doesn’t like having people in his house, and his cabin is cozy. I believe you said he designed it to be ‘guest-unfriendly to help maintain his reclusive ways.’ Jason’s still a bachelor, and your dad doesn’t need the stress of having all the grandkids underfoot. A big dining room means the cousins can play, and the adults can have a comfortable space to relax. Oh, and just so you know, we’ll spend Christmas with my family, but the other holidays can be more flexible—I don’t want everything too planned out. And, I want an October twenty-eighth wedding.”

She could tell when Seth’s brain caught up with her words as his grip tightened and green eyes locked onto hers with an intensity that made her heart skip a beat. “October twenty-eighth, as in… a month from now?”

“Yep,” Mack said, her tone cheerful and matter-of-fact. “Holly’s been hosting a ton of fall weddings, and she sent me pictures—the barn looks incredible. I’m not waiting until next year. I checked your calendar, and you’re free that weekend. We’ll have four full days between contracts. We might have to fly home or drive all night, but we can make it work. It’s a reasonable drive for your family if we hold the ceremony at noon and serve lunch instead of dinner. The only thing we need is a suit. I found my dress yesterday—it’s hanging in my closet.”

Chuckling, he teased, “So, when exactly were you planning to propose to me?”

Mack grinned, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “Let’s just say I already told Sarah about my plans. If you hadn’t proposed by this time next week, she was going to step in.”

Seth pulled her closer, kissing her tenderly, his heart overflowing with love. “I love you, Mack. I never thought a month could feel so long.”

***

The crisp October air was filled with anticipation as guests began to arrive at the beautifully decorated barn on the Cloverdale farms. The morning sun cast a golden glow across the autumn landscape, setting the perfect stage for Mackenzie and Seth’s big day. Holly and her sisters had outdone themselves, transforming the rustic barn into a romantic, elegant venue that captured the essence of the season and the love that had brought everyone together.

The barn’s entrance was flanked by large wooden barrels overflowing with cascading arrangements of burgundy roses, dark teal eucalyptus, and accents of rich orange calla lilies. Wine-colored ribbons trailed down from the arrangements, fluttering gently in the breeze.

Inside, the barn was nothing short of enchanting. The long wooden tables, dressed in dark teal linens, were adorned with centerpieces of deep red and burnt orange flowers, accented with silver-gray foliage and clusters of grapes. The dark teal taper candles in gold holders added a touch of elegance, their flames flickering softly as they reflected off the rustic wood and twinkling string lights overhead. Each place setting was simple yet refined, with wine-colored napkins folded into crisp rectangles and tucked into gray chargers. The scent of fresh flowers and warm candle wax filled the air, creating an ambiance that was both cozy and breathtaking.

At the back of the barn, where the ceremony would take place, a stunning arch made of twisted branches adorned with lush florals stood proudly against the backdrop of the forest, which was dressed in the breathtaking colors of autumn. The open barn doors framed the arch, seamlessly blending the indoor space with the natural beauty beyond. The arch served as a perfect focal point for the room, creating an intimate and enchanted atmosphere.

Mackenzie stood in her bedroom, taking a deep breath as she smoothed the delicate tulle overlay of her dress. The off-the-shoulder gown flowed around her like a dream, the soft blush tones complimenting her complexion. The intricate leaf patterns seemed to climb up the bodice and cascade down into the full skirt, giving her an ethereal look that was both timeless and modern. In her hands, she clutched a bouquet of rich reds, deep burgundies, and vibrant oranges, tied together with a velvet wine-colored ribbon that trailed down elegantly.

There was a knock on the door, and Holly peeked in, her eyes shining with unshed tears. “You look like a dream, Mack. Seth is going to lose it when he sees you.”

Mackenzie smiled, her heart fluttering with a mix of nerves and excitement. “Thank you, Holly. Everything looks amazing. I can’t believe this is really happening.”

Holly walked over and gave her sister-in-law a hug. “Believe it. Now, are you ready to go marry your man?”

Mackenzie nodded, taking one last look in the mirror before heading downstairs to where her father and Daniel waited.

Seth stood at the altar with his brothers Jason and Eric, who were dressed in dark grey suits and wine-colored ties. As Holly and Sarah made their way down the aisle in their matching wine-colored dresses, Eric had eyes only for his wife.

Mackenzie arrived in a carriage pulled by Donner. Daniel was in the driver’s seat, dressed in tuxedo tails and a top hat, much to the delight of the guests, who whispered excitedly as they watched the beautiful bride make her entrance. The carriage ride was the perfect nod to her family’s Christmas traditions, adding an extra layer of magic to the day. Seth smiled at the surprise, loving Daniel for that tiny detail. As she stepped down, with Nick’s help—who was also dressed in tails and a top hat—it was as if she was stepping straight out of a fairytale.

Tessa arranged Mack’s short train and veil after it had been blown by the wind on the way from the house, then scurried down the aisle to stand next to Sarah, who congratulated her on a job well done as junior bridesmaid. Little Leah scattered red and rust-colored petals down the aisle, her small hands trembling with excitement.

As the wedding march began to play and Mack walked sedately down the aisle next to her father, Seth’s heart swelled as his breath caught in his throat. She was radiant, her smile brighter than the sun streaming through the barn windows. All the love and joy of the past year were reflected in her eyes, and he knew, without a doubt, that this was the moment his life had been leading up to.

When it came time to exchange vows, the barn was so quiet you could hear a pin drop. Seth held Mackenzie’s hands in his, his voice steady but filled with emotion. “Mackenzie, from the moment you rescued me in that storm, I knew my life would never be the same. You slayed my heart completely, and I will forever be grateful. You’ve shown me what it means to truly live and to love with my whole heart. You are my home, my heart, my everything. I promise to stand by your side, to cherish you, to protect you, and to love you for all the days of my life.”

Mackenzie blinked back tears, her voice trembling slightly as she responded. “Seth, you walked into my life when I wasn’t looking for anything more than a quiet holiday. But you brought with you a love so strong, it swept me off my feet. I promise to love you fiercely, to stand by you in every storm, and to cherish every moment we have together. You are my forever, and I can’t wait to start this new chapter with you.”

As the officiant pronounced them husband and wife, Seth leaned in, capturing Mackenzie’s lips in a kiss that was tender and passionate, sealing their vows with the promise of a lifetime together. The guests erupted in cheers, but for Seth and Mackenzie, the world had narrowed down to just the two of them, their hearts beating in perfect sync.

Sarah’s infant, Tom, cradled in the arms of his grandpa Stoll, caught everyone’s attention when he decided he was done waiting for his next meal. His one-year-old sister, Saraphina, tried to help, leaning over her grandmother Beth’s arm and loudly shushing her brother. The sweet ceremony came to an end amidst a cacophony of laughter, perfectly reflecting the joy and love that surrounded them.

As the guests moved to the tables for the reception, Holly’s sisters, Ivy and Willow, along with their team, worked quickly and efficiently to serve a delicious meal. The tables were soon filled with plates of hearty food, and the conversation flowed freely.

Seth’s mother, Nicki, stood quietly in the back of the room during the ceremony, her eyes brimming with emotion as she watched her eldest son marry the love of his life. She had slipped in unnoticed and planned to leave just as quietly, but Seth caught her eye. He, Mackenzie, and Jason snuck away to greet her in a quiet corner. With tears in her eyes, she embraced them both warmly, wishing them a lifetime of happiness. After a few minutes of quiet conversation, she slipped away, leaving only Seth, Mack, and Jason aware of her presence. Her brief appearance was enough to let Seth know that, despite the past, she was genuinely happy for him.

Jason stood to make a toast, his voice cracking with emotion as he expressed his happiness for the couple. “To my brother and my new sister, may your love be as strong as the mountains that surround us and as deep as the forest that shelters us. Mackenzie, thank you for taking this lone wolf and returning him to his pack. We are in your debt. Welcome to the family!”

The rest of the afternoon was filled with celebration. Seth’s and Mackenzie’s families blended seamlessly as if they had always been one big family. Eric and Daniel hit it off instantly, spending the day huddled together in a corner of the barn, talking about whatever ex-military men discuss as Eric gently rocked his daughter to sleep. There was dancing, laughter, and plenty of teasing between the brothers, creating a vibrant atmosphere of love and joy.

As the afternoon sun began to dip in the sky, it was time for the newlyweds to depart. The guests lined up outside the barn, their hands filled with birdseed, ready to shower the couple with good wishes as they embarked on their journey together. Mackenzie and Seth climbed into the carriage, and as Donner started to pull them away, the guests cheered and tossed the birdseed into the air. The couple laughed as the tiny grains rained down on them, filling the air with joy and the promise of a bright future.

As they held each other close, watching the landscape pass by, Seth whispered in Mackenzie’s ear, “This is just the beginning, sweetheart. I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you.”

Mackenzie smiled up at him, her heart overflowing with love. “Neither can I.”

And with that, they settled into the warmth of their love, ready for whatever the future held.