Page 54 of The Blacksmith’s Wish

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That afternoon found Effie waiting at the edge of the village where the winding path disappeared into the woods. She spotted Gowan long before he reached her. Even from a distance his stride was unmistakable, steady, powerful, purposeful.

The sight of him still stole her breath. His broad warhorse walked proudly beside him, every bit as imposing as its master.

Her mule, meanwhile, ambled toward them with all the dignity of an overfed goose.

Effie smiled, the animals suited them perfectly.

When Gowan reached her, he didn’t bother with greetings. Instead, he simply reached for her hand. His thumb brushed across her knuckles as though reassuring himself she was truly there.

Together they wandered beneath towering trees, leading their animals along the familiar woodland trail. Birdsong drifted through the canopy while shafts of sunlight danced across the forest floor.

“I’ve been thinking,” Effie said.

He glanced sideways at her. “Should I be worried?”

She nudged him with her shoulder. “Always.”

A smile tugged at his mouth. “What is it then?”

“I ken many things about ye. I ken when ye’re pretending to be gruff.”

“I never pretend.”

She gave him a look.

He chuckled.

“I ken ye secretly enjoy children climbing all over ye, though ye grumble every time. And I ken ye always leave the largest loaf at the bakery for old Murdina.”

His smile widened. “She threatens me with her cane if I don’t.”

“But there are simple things I still dinnae ken.”

“Such as?”

“What meal ye love most. Yer favorite scent. What part of the day makes ye happiest.”

He considered before lifting her hand to his lips. “Mornings.”

“Mornings?”

“I wake rested.” His eyes twinkled. “Which puts me in a fine mood.”

She wrinkled her nose dramatically. “Oh dear. I despise mornings.”

He stared at her in mock horror. “Ye’re telling me I’ve agreed to marry a woman who dislikes sunrise?”

“I dislike leaving warm blankets.”

A mischievous smile spread slowly across his face. “I suspect I’ll begin appreciating mornings even more once ye’re sleeping beside me.”

Heat flooded her cheeks. “And yer favorite meal?”

He didn’t hesitate. “Beef stew with potatoes and carrots swimming in rich gravy.” He sighed dreamily. “Fresh bread slathered in butter.”

She nodded solemnly. “A worthy choice. Although I do enjoy lentil soup on rainy days.”