Chapter 25

Shadow Valley, Texas - June 1873

Buck sat mesmerized, his hand wrapped around his new bride's. Honor, radiant in her simple ivory gown with cascading brown curls, beamed at their gathered family and friends. The ranch's garden, their chosen ceremony venue, buzzed with joyous chatter. Buck couldn't tear his gaze from her.

A gentle clinking of a glass drew their attention. Teaspoon, his weathered face creased in a warm smile, stood up. "Before our beautiful bride and groom grace us with their first dance," he announced, clearing his throat, "I'd like to say a few words."

Buck chuckled teasingly, "Do you have to?"

Teaspoon winked. "I'll be brief. I've known Buck since he was a strapping young lad, and watched him grow into the fine man he is today. Buck, I'm proud of you, son. You've found yourself a remarkable woman, and I know you two will build a wonderful life together."

Cheers erupted, a wave of well-wishes washing over the couple.

Justice, his voice booming with pride, took his turn. "For those who don't know, Buck here is pretty much a hero to our family. He jumped into a gunfight to save us. Who wouldn't want a man like that marrying their sister? Buck, welcome to the family. I'm honored to call you brother." Glasses clinked in another toast.

Taking Honor's hand, Buck rose. "Thank you all. With your permission, I'm dying to steal my bride away for a dance."

Applause filled the air as Buck led Honor onto the makeshift wooden dance floor. Despite his aversion to being the center of attention, this was an exception he gladly made.

"The whole town?" Honor whispered playfully, a hint of nervousness in her voice.

"Well, wouldn't have been right to leave anyone out, now would it?" Buck winked.

"Thank you for the surprise," Honor whispered, her eyes sparkling with gratitude. "Having Justice and Libby here means the world to me."

A satisfied warmth spread through Buck. "Anything to see you smile." He leaned down, nuzzling her neck with a soft kiss. "Perhaps when we find a stolen moment," his gaze flickered with desire, "we can slip away."

Her smile mirrored his longing. "Agreed."

The music shifted, and they swayed to a few more songs before returning to their table. Throughout the evening, Honor couldn't help but notice her brother stealing glances at Bethany. With a subtle nudge under the table, she drew both their attentions. Bethany met her gaze, then quickly looked away, a blush tinging her cheeks pink. To Honor's delight, Justice soon approached Bethany and led her to the dance floor.

Buck seized the opportunity, taking Honor's hand and whisking her towards the house. He bolted the door shut behind them, leaning against it with a sigh of relief. Finally alone. Honor leaned into him, a playful smile on her lips as she kicked off her shoes.

"Qyá̱u," Buck murmured, pulling her close for a deep kiss.

"You promised you'd tell me what that means someday," she teased, taking his hand and leading him through the house.

The bedroom became their haven. Buck's hands grazed her hips as he stood behind her. He trailed kisses down her neck, his fingers working swiftly on the intricate buttons lining the back of her dress.

"It means something akin to 'soulmate'." He whispered against her ear.

Honor shivered, her eyes fluttering closed. "Mmm," she sighed contentedly.

A muffled curse escaped Buck's lips. "How many buttons are there on this thing?"

Laughter bubbled up in Honor. She reached for him, her voice thick with emotion. "I love you, Buck."

Their lips met in a passionate kiss, a promise of forever.