Peadar's Wee Lass, Wedding & Surprise


Mac'IlleMhìcheil Estate – Blessing Stone

Sam and Jules headed to the gathering meadow with all the other family but then they separated with Jules heading to the area set up for the wedding ceremony and Sam heading to the blessing stone where the wedding party was gathering. Jules was stunning in her gown Sam thought as he watched Jules walk away with Mason's sisters Nan and Em.

Cala stopped and watched Sam. She could tell that he was so in love with Jules. His mouth was slightly agape as he watched her walk away. She came up to him and said "When are you two tying the knot?"

Pulled from his gawking and the lustful thoughts that had started to enter his head Sam looked a little guilty like a boy caught with his hand in the cookie jar as he looked at Cala. His voice was a little hoarse as he said "We haven't set a date yet. Not quite ready to be on separate teams."

Cala nodded "Why do you two have to be on different teams when you marry? I mean what's the difference than dating?"

Sam shrugged. He really didn't see a difference himself but he answered "It's one of the stipulations. The brass thinks there is a difference of some sort. They're wrong of course but …"

Cala smile "But you will abide by the rules now."

Sam grinned "Yeah, we've had enough of sneaking around. Feels better not lying by omission. I'm ready to lead a team anyways and when there is an opening I'll get first crack at it. Least that is what Ed and the Boss say."

Cala looked at Marsaili and said "Time for Mason to be heading to the altar so Marsaili can remove the sheet that is hiding her wedding dress."

Sam nodded and headed over to Mason. He tapped him on the shoulder and said "Time to go wait for your bride at the altar."

Mason sighed looking down at Marsaili. He had been surprised to find her wrapped up in a sheet that covered everything except her face when he stole her from her room. He guessed that was so her wedding gown reveal would take place as she walked down the aisle with her father. He wanted to kiss her right now but knew he had to wait.

He bowed to Marsaili and said "I will be waiting for you at the altar my àlainn bòcan." (my lovely sprite)

Marsaili smiled sweetly and curtsied "I'll be there soon mo Goireas laoch." (my highland warrior)

Mason turned to Blondie and said "I see you are unscathed. Did you have fun?"

Sam grinned "Yeah that was fun. Who knows I might take a few fencing classes when I get home."

Jim shook his head and handed his Sam pack to Mason "You are bound and determined to make my life hell aren't you Sam. Mason would you give this to Heather for me please. Need to keep this thing close."

Mason, Winds and Blaze chuckled. Mason took the Sam pack and headed for the wedding area.

He stole one last glance at Marsaili as he headed away. Mason wondered what he had done to be blessed with such a wonderful woman. Before he bumped in Marsaili in that corridor on the way to the General's office he had resigned himself to being a bachelor. Now he was getting married and he had a child on the way. Life could not get better than this.

Marsaili's four sisters unwrapped her from the sheet and readjusted her dress. Her eldest sister, Lissa handed Marsaili her bouquet of red roses and rare white heather while her second sister Isobel fixed a small fly-away piece of hair. When Aimil and Deidre were done fussing with Marsaili's dress and making everything perfect all four sisters stepped back to look at their baby sister.

Peadar Mac'IlleMhìcheil, Marsaili's father, sighed looking at his youngest lass. His lovely wee lass was pretty as a picture. Some days he had feared he would not live long enough to see his last daughter married. Peadar was so impressed with the man she chose. He knew that Mason would protect his little wee lass. That her gentle heart would be well-tended and she would be loved forever more by a strong and capable man.

He took a puff of his inhaler and looked a moment more. Beautiful! Peadar then kissed Marsaili's cheek and asked "Are ye ready to go my lovely wee lass?"

Marsaili looked up into the adoring eyes of her father and smiled "Yes daddy."

It warmed his heart to hear his wee lass call him daddy once more. Peadar looked to the others and said "Shall we go?"

The wedding party paired up and headed towards the wedding area.


Mac'IlleMhìcheil Estate – Wedding Area

Mason stood tall at the altar waiting for his bride to make her appearance. Inside he was quaking, not with fear but with excitement and anticipation. A smile spread across his face as he saw the first of the processional turn the corner that shielded view of those approaching. He would have to wait a few more moments to see his bride.

The first two to approach to the sounds of bagpipes were the best man and maiden of honor. Blondie was escorting Marsaili's eldest sister Lissa MacLeod. They made their way slowly up the long aisle.

When Sam joined Mason he lightly patted Mason's arm and said softly "It is worth the wait to see her."

Next up the aisle was Blaze escorting Isobel Grant, Marsaili's second sister. They were followed by Winds and Aimil Sinclair, the next older sister. Jim had Deidre Morgan, Marsaili's sister that was only thirteen months older than her, on his arm. The last groomsman and bridesmaid to walk up the aisle were Marsaili's brother Wallace and Mason's sister Cala.

"Ahs" were heard from many as they saw the cutest little boy start down the aisle. It was Lachlann as the ring bearer and he was dressed in a Prince Charlie kilt in the Srònaich'O' Naoimhín tartan. He tried to catch up with his mom. When Lachlann reached the front his Grandma Bea scooped him up and sat him on her knee where he would stay for the rest of the ceremony. Lachlann happily snuggled close to his grandma and closed his eyes. It was way past his normal bedtime.

Next up the aisle was little five year old Wynona as the flower girl. She was happily sprinkling red rose petals and sprigs of white heather as she walked. Jules looked at the little girl as she passed by. She saw that Wynona was making a beeline for Sam and Liisa gently redirected her to go sit with Ailis.

Jules thought that Sam was a magnet for females of all ages, but especially little girls. He was like a real life Prince Charming and little girls seemed to know it intuitively. At least Allie and Wynona did. Jules wondered what Sam would be like as a father to a little girl. Scratch that, she knew exactly how he would be. Great! And he would be wrapped around his daughter's little finger from the moment she was born.

Her hand went to her stomach as a sense of longing hit Jules. She wanted kids but wasn't sure if she would be a good mother and if she could continue with SRU if she did have kids. Did Sam want kids? She was afraid to have that talk just yet. Things were good right now. She didn't want to throw a wrench in things so she was avoiding that particular conversation with Sam.

Jules stood with the rest of those gathered as the bagpipes changed their tune signaling that Marsaili was heading down the aisle.

Mason stared at his lovely sprite. She was as beautiful as the fairies. Marsaili floated down the aisle towards him. He only had eyes for her. He was surely blessed.

Marsaili only had eyes for Mason. Her highland warrior was waiting for her at the altar. She always saw beyond the scars on his face. For her they did not exist. All she saw were his rich chocolate brown eyes and they showed what was in his heart. Mason's heart was the biggest, gentlest and most loving one she had ever come across. She was finally going to be Mrs. Srònaich'O' Naoimhín and that made her so very happy.

Marsaili and Peadar ascended the dais to the altar and stopped just before Mason. They had constructed the raised dais so that everyone would be able to witness the wedding.

Peadar kissed Marsaili on the cheek and then placed her right hand in Mason's right hand. He looked Mason directly in the eyes. He smiled when he read the love in Mason's eyes for his wee lass. Peadar stepped back, descended the stairs and joined his wife Muriel who was sitting next to Laird Gillebrìde and Lady Ailis. All three were beaming as they looked upon the couple at the altar.

This was going to be a joining of two families that were much alike. Both families embraced the Scottish traditions and culture. Both families were loving and demonstrative in that love. Both families fiercely protected those they loved but were gentle and caring. It was a very good match.

The minister began the ceremony with a Celtic wedding prayer "Dear Lord, help this couple to remember when they first met and the strong love that grew between them. May they incorporate that love into practical things so that nothing can divide them. We ask for words both kind and loving and hearts that are always ready to ask forgiveness as well as willing to forgive. Dear Lord, we put their marriage into your hands."

He continued with various verses and a speech on the sanctity of marriage. Then he asked them to speak their wedding pledges.

Mason's voice was strong and clear but filled with emotion as he turned to Marsaili and spoke his pledge.

"You cannot possess me, for I belong to myself. But while we both wish it, I give you that which is mine to give.
You cannot command me, for I am a free person. But I shall serve you in those ways you require.
I pledge to you that yours will be the name I cry aloud in the night and the eyes into which I smile in the morning.
I pledge to you the first bite from my meat and the first drink from my cup.
I pledge to you my living and dying, equally in your care and to tell no strangers our grievances.
This is my wedding vow to you. This is a marriage of equals."

Marsaili's voice shook with deep emotion and happy tears welled in her eyes as she spoke her pledge to Mason.

"You cannot possess me, for I belong to myself. But while we both wish it, I give you that which is mine to give.
You cannot command me, for I am a free person. But I shall serve you in those ways you require.
I pledge to you to be your best friend, your faithful partner and that you are my one true love.
I pledge to encourage you and inspire you and to love you truly through the good times and bad.
I pledge to forever be there to laugh with you, to lift you up when you are down and to love you unconditionally through all of our adventures in life together.
This is my wedding vow to you. This is a marriage of equals."

The minister then asked for the rings. Mason removed Marsaili's Claddagh ring. Sam stepped down to a sleeping Lachlann and removed Mason's Claddagh ring from the little pillow it was tied to and handed it to Marsaili after he ascended the dais again. Marsaili in turn handed it to the minister. The minister said a blessing over the rings and then handed them to Mason and Marsaili.

Mason smiled as he slipped the Claddagh ring on Marsaili's left ring finger with the heart facing inward and stated "With this ring, I, Murchadh-Ailpein Srònaich'O' Naoimhín, take thee as my wife from now 'til death do us part."

Marsaili beamed as she slipped on Mason's ring and stated "With this ring I, Marsaili Mac'IlleMhìcheil, take thee as my husband from now 'til death do us part."

The guests were expecting the minister to pronounce them husband and wife. But instead he stepped back as Peadar Mac'IlleMhìcheil and Benneit Srònaich'O' Naoimhín stood up and ascended the raised dais where the wedding altar was located. Peadar, Benneit and Sam all reached down and removed the Sgian Dubhs that were tucked into the top of their left stocking.

Peadar went to Marsaili and using the Sgian Dubh cut a length of Mac'IlleMhìcheil tartan from her sash. He tucked the Sgian Dubh back into place and stood waiting.

Benneit stepped to Mason and using the Sgian Dubh cut a length of Srònaich'O' Naoimhín tartan from Mason's fly tartan. He tucked the Sgian Dubh back into place and turned to Peadar. The two men knotted the pieces of tartan together then handed the length of tartan to Sam. They both turned and descended the dais and resumed their seats.

Sam felt the light weight of the extremely sharp Sgian Dubh in his left hand as he held the tartan in his right. This was the part he was not looking forward to. But he would do it because Mason had asked him to do it and as best man it fell to him to do it. He looked at Marsaili first then Mason silently asking again if they really wanted to do this part of the ceremony. He got two nods as each held out their right hands to him.

Taking a quick breath Sam made a small cut on the inside of Mason's wrist then repeated the cut on Marsaili's wrist. As he replaced the Sgian Dubh in his stocking, Mason and Marsaili clasped their hands to each other's right arms so the cuts were aligned and their blood mingled.

Sam then took the knotted combined tartan and quickly tied their hands together. He received a smile of thanks from both Mason and Marsaili. Then he stepped back to his place beside Mason.

Mason then said with emotion "Tha sibh fuil m 'fhuil agus cnàimh mo chnàimh. Bheir mi sibh mo chuirp, gu bheil sinn a dh'fhaodadh a bhith dà aon. Bheir mi sibh mo spiorad, 'til ar beatha ni a dheanamh."

Marsaili repeated the same in English "Ye are blood of my blood and bone of my bone. I give ye my body, that we two might be one. I give ye my spirit, 'til our life shall be done."

The minister stepped forward again and smiled. He asked Mason and Marsaili to clasp their left hands together also.

Then the minister spoke the final blessing loud and clear "These are the hands of your best friend. They are holding yours on your wedding day as you promise to love each other today, tomorrow and forever. These are the hands that will love you and cherish you through the years and will comfort you with the slightest touch. These are the hands that will wipe the tears from your eyes, tears of sorrow and tears of joy. These are the hands that will tenderly hold your children and help you hold your family as one. These are the hands that will give you strength when you need it. These are the hands that when wrinkled and aged will still be reaching for you and still giving you the same unspoken tenderness with just a touch. May these hands continue to build a loving relationship that lasts a lifetime."

Then the minister declared "I now pronounce you husband and wife."

He never got out 'you may kiss the bride' because Mason pulled Marsaili to him and kissed her lovingly.

Cheers erupted. Bagpipes began to play the recessional tune. But Mason continued to kiss Marsaili.

Sam chuckled as he tapped Mason on the shoulder "Mason, time to go buddy. There'll be time for that later."

Mason reluctantly parted his lips from Marsaili's. They turned as one to the gathered crowd with bright smiles. Then they started down the dais and down the aisle. The guests tossed heather blossoms as the newly married couple passed. The air was filled with the fresh woody and mossy fragrance of heather.

Once the wedding procession exited, the immediate families of both began down the aisle followed by close friends and then the rest in attendance. They all headed for the large sideless tents that had been set up for the reception buffet and dancing.


Mac'IlleMhìcheil Estate – Reception Tents

Seven behemoth tents were set up for the reception. Four tents were set up with tables and chairs; several tables were set especially for the bridal party and their spouses or significant others. Two tents were set up with rows of tables filled with food and four bars that were manned by three bartenders each. The last tent contained a DJ area and a huge dance floor.

Mason and Marsaili sat at a table with Sam, Jules, Blaze, Winds, Jim, Heather, Cala, Wallace and Wynfreda. Mason's and Marsaili's parents shared one table and were engaged in conversation. The rest of the family members were at various tables. Mason's sister Nan and her husband had chosen to take all the little kids, including Lachlann, back to the cottage after the kids ate as it was too late for them to be out and about and they were either asleep or falling asleep.

There was a festive party atmosphere as music and laughter filled the night air. Mason and Marsaili announced to everyone that they were expecting a child. Ailis, Bea, and Muriel were so pleased to hear Marsaili was expecting. Peadar gave Mason a hard stern look but then his face split into an ear to ear smile as he shook Mason's hand and congratulated them.

Wedding toasts and congratulations were offered by many as the Mac'IlleMhìcheil Whisky and Heather Ale flowed. As he promised Sam stuck with ginger ale like Marsaili. Jules had nursed one mug Heather Ale for over an hour, wanting to try the unique beverage and then switched to ginger ale too.

Sam gave the obligatory best man speech and told a warm but embarrassing story about Mason but its real purpose was to show Mason's true character and big heart. Mason promised to embarrass Sunshine just the same when he got married. Sam had quipped back that perhaps Gorgeous would not be invited if that were the case. Both had laughed knowing that would never happen.

After they all ate, Mason and Marsaili cut the cake with a sword. Then caterers served up the cake to all the guests.

When Mason and Marsaili headed to the tent with the dance floor Jules looked at Sam with hopeful eyes. Sam grinned, took Jules' hand in his and stood up "Wanna dance?"

Jules replied "Thought you'd never ask."

They headed off to the tent along with the rest of them. Sam danced all the slow songs with Jules, mainly just swaying to the music with her; nothing to aggravate his stomach muscles. He smiled and watched as Jules danced the fast songs with all his buddies and some the extended family members and a few local guys. It made him happy to see Jules enjoying herself so much.

Winds was the dancer among all the guys. He was in high demand with all the ladies. Jim and Heather enjoyed dancing together. Blaze danced a few songs with Jules, Heather and Cala. But it was clear he was missing Lizzy.

Mason allowed Peadar to dance the obligatory father/daughter dance with Marsaili but then he monopolized her the rest of the night. Who could blame him? Marsaili was his wife now and he was showing a possessive streak. The guys ribbed him about it but Mason only smiled and Marsaili tucked herself closer to Mason happy to be monopolized by Mason tonight.

As things began to wind down the group was seated at a table together talking softly and just enjoying each other's company. Jules sighed and leaned on Sam's left shoulder.

Sam put his arm around her and squeezed lightly "Penny for your thoughts."

Jules turned and looked at Sam. Her voice was a little melancholy "This has been so nice. I hate that we have to go back tomorrow night; back to the real world. I wish we could just find a little cottage in the wilds of Scotland and just be alone together."

Sam smiled "That sounds good to me too. Too bad we have to get back."

Part of Sam was not looking forward to the flight home. He was three for three on commercial flights for having alcohol dumped on him; and not to mention last night at the bar. He could imagine several scenarios where he would end up doused in alcohol again. His luck seemed to be that bad lately.

Marsaili overheard Jules and Sam and nudged Mason. She whispered "Time to tell them."

Mason grinned and then pounded on the table to get everyone's attention. Everyone stopped and looked at Mason. Mason stood up and turned to Sam and Jules.

His smile was bright as he said "Blondie and Jules we have a surprise for you."

Sam and Jules looked at each other and then around the table as the others were all wearing huge grins. Sam looked back to Mason "Surprise? For what?"

Mason explained "Last night we decided that we needed to thank you for what you did. For all you have always done. Winds had the start of an idea and by the time we all got done adding to it, it just seemed perfect."

Jules' voice was soft "What idea?"

Blaze stood and said "I think Winds should tell you, since it was his idea to begin with."

Winds stood and so did Jim. The four men looked at Sam as Winds said "Blondie you have always gone above and beyond to take care of others. We all like the fact that you are starting to take better care of yourself."

Turning to Jules he smiled "We know that is mainly due to Jules. We know she is your Beauty of Life. The one Matt promised you was waiting for you. You two deserve to be happy. You both do so much for others."

Then Winds turned to Mason and said "You do the honors. You are the one that orchestrated it all."

Sam was getting a bit worried "Come on, someone just tell us what is going on."

The guys all laughed and Blaze took charge, as usual, and he said "We have arranged for both of you to have three more weeks of vacation. The General spoke to Commander Holleran and squared it away. Marsaili with the help of Lady Ailis has outfitted a small cottage with all you two will need for three weeks."

Marsaili interjected "It is located in a remote part of the estate and primarily used as a hunting cottage. It is near the loch and can only be reached walking or on an ATV. Grandpa has arranged for you to have use of two ATVs for the duration. All your things were packed during the wedding and moved there already. Wallace will show you two the way there tonight when you are ready to leave the reception."

Jim spoke and said "We also know that you have had your fill of drunks lately and flying commercial might not be too appealing. With your luck Sam, you would probably end up doused in alcohol again. So Mason contacted Mike Galloway."

Mason grinned with his knowledge of Mike, Red Baron to him now. He interrupted Jim and said "Remember that cool jet you rode on once with me, Winds, Mike and Drake?" He did not go into detail that it was when Blondie had no memory of who he was after taking out that terrorist cell when he reactivated to save Ben.

Sam nodded.

Mason continued "Well Mike has arranged for you and Jules to be flown home on that jet. No possibility of you getting alcohol thrown in your face unless you piss off Jules."

That elicited a chuckle for everyone.

Marsaili laid a hand over her stomach and smiled sweetly "That is how we all would like to thank you for everything you have done for all those you care about. It is but a small gesture for all the sacrifices you have made but we all hope that you two enjoy the time to just be together." Her grin turned impish as she said "Think of it as a honeymoon if you will, you did get handfasted here."

Sam and Jules looked at each other wide eyed and speechless. Neither could believe what they had done for them. Sam and Jules were utterly surprised at their generosity and thoughtfulness.

Jules' wish and her dream from last night was coming true. She covered her open mouth as no words would form or come forth.

Sam gave them all a WOW smile and found his voice as he managed to say two words "Thank you."

In a chorus Blaze, Winds, Jim, Mason, Marsaili and Heather all said "No, thank you."

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AN: Hope you all liked the wedding and the surprise for Sam and Jules. One more chapter and this story will be done.