Chapter twenty-four - Gilbert

Gilbert lifted his head and smiled down into his new wife's face. Beatrice licked her lips and coyly batted her lashes at him with a shy smile. She dazzled his senses as no one else ever had. It was so surprising to realize she was actually his wife. After Rose, he never expected ever to find another woman he would call wife. But this wonderful woman had burrowed her way into his stone-cold heart and brought him back to life. She was brave, intelligent, sweet, loving, loyal. Everything he could ever want in a life partner. He wanted to be with her always, together forever. He couldn't wait to get her home, away from this crowd. He was burning to have her all to himself.

"If you will come sign the registry, we will finish up here and move on to the festivities." The priest interrupted his thoughts as he directed them to the open ledgers.

Gilbert took his bride's hand and they moved around to the other side of the alter where the registry sat. Gilbert stood by while Beatrice bent to sign her name. He glanced out over the crowd. The old ruined church certainly was packed. He wouldn't be surprised to discover the whole shire was here to witness the nuptials. No wonder he was feeling a bit warm. Standing here in the mid-day sunshine in the midst of all these people, but for once he didn't mind the crowd.

With Beatrice at his side, he was more than ready to re-enter society. He turned his eyes to the open area that had once been the apse, the missing roof and windowless gaps in the standing stone walls. He could offer to help rebuild, starting with the old church. There was plenty of the same grey-beige stone back at the castle, and he had all those long beams he was planning to use to rebuild his own roof. He could offer to donate the supplies as well as his labor. The idea was worth mentioning to the town council. He smiled with satisfaction.

Just then Beatrice waved him forward and he moved to take her place before the registry. A hasty flourish and he scrawled his name next to hers. When he raised his head, the priest motioned the Mayor and Sheriff forward. Gilbert straightened and stepped away to join Beatrice as the two men moved in to sign as witnesses. She slid her small hand into his and smiled up at him. Gilbert returned her smile. He couldn't seem to stop smiling.

Perhaps that was why his throat felt a little sore and scratchy. Or it could be the strain of speaking again, for the first time in over a decade. He had even surprised himself. It had been Sumter's idea of course. Ever the optimist, his friend suggested it would please his Lady if Gilbert could manage a word or two. And what better words than his vow before God and witnesses to love, honor and cherish? He even pointed out that, even if Gilbert tried and was unable to utter a sound, at least he made the effort.

"If you would take your places together at the head of the aisle, please." The priest softly directed as he waved them back to the other side of the alter.

They moved into their place and the little clergyman held up his hands, calling for silence. After the crowd quieted, he announced in a strong, proud voice, "I am honored to introduce to the congregation, Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Lourson."

Cheers and applause burst out all around. Gilbert gazed down into Beatrice's eyes and felt as if he could simply float away on the warm currents of happiness whirling around them both. He felt tiny fingers grasp his free hand and glanced down to find sweet little Martine happily grinning up at him. He grinned back, then glanced at his wife and noticed Felicia standing at her side, returning Beatrice's bouquet. When she raised her head to smile shyly at him Gilbert almost chuckled aloud with happiness.

Together, the four of them marched back down the aisle and stepped out into the brilliant afternoon sunshine. Sheriff Daimler, Sumter and Teddy followed and everyone else filed out behind them. They led the way out to the bell tower where food was being set out by several of the women. A few loose planks of wood laid across a couple of headstones served as makeshift tables.

News of the devastating fire had spread quickly through the shire and some local farmers had come to town with produce to share. There was more than enough food to feed the entire village. But, as they were still laying out the last of the dishes, Gilbert and Beatrice stood beneath the old bell tower and waited patiently. The children rushed off to play, leaving the adults to congregate as they pleased.

A friendly thump on his shoulder brought Gilbert's attention around to Sumter. The skinny clerk grinned, offering his hand and Gilbert accepted with delight.

"I'll be off, Lourson." He announced. "I'll take care of your animals for you and be back in no time. The Sheriff is lending me a horse."

Gilbert nodded his thanks. Sumter had proven to be a good friend indeed and he found he wished to cultivate that friendship. The man was not put off by Gilbert's massive size or his inability to speak. In fact, the skinny clerk understood his miming and gestures almost as well as Beatrice. More than once, he had interpreted Gilbert's wishes for others. He was both jolly and mischievous, a jokester who loved life and Gilbert appreciated his friendship. It had been a long time since he had anyone to call friend. It felt good.

"We do so appreciate your assistance, Mr. Sumter. You must hurry back to enjoy the party." Beatrice told him sincerely.

"I certainly will, Mrs. Lourson." Sumter chuckled.

Gilbert felt a bubbling pride fill his chest. Hearing his new wife's name spoken aloud really brought home the fact that they were actually married.

"You can explain how you came into possession of this ring when you return." She continued, raising a brow as she lifted her left hand and wriggled her ring finger expectantly.

Gilbert lifted a brow in confusion. What did she mean by that? Surely, she wasn't accusing Sumter of thievery. It was just a simple ring, wasn't it? Beatrice noticed him frowning and lifted her hand to show him the design on her ring.

"This is my family's crest." She turned back to address Sumter. "Did you know?"

Surprised, Gilbert also looked to the skinny clerk for an answer.

"Certainly, my Lady." The man assured them with a nod. "Everyone knows the Smallette crest."

Gilbert frowned. Smallette. The name sounded familiar and yet was Beatrice's family name not Smail? Again, she noticed his confusion and explained modestly.

"The family title was originally Baron Smallette."

Gilbert nodded his understanding but something about the name still niggled at his memory. He couldn't quite recall why but then decided that it would eventually come to him. He set the problem aside for the moment.

"But that still doesn't explain how it came into your possession." Beatrice pointed out logically.

"Well," The skinny clerk ducked his head, his perpetual grin turning sheepish. "I'm afraid that is a rather long and convoluted story."

"That is a story I would like to hear as well." Sheriff Daimler commented sternly as he stalked towards them.

"Of course, Sheriff." Sumter readily agreed.

"Gladly. But, I really need to go tend to Mr. Lourson's animals first." That sheepish grin turned sly. "He's worried about them being left alone for so long."

"Then I believe I will accompany you. Between us, we should finish the chores in half the time." Sheriff Daimler concluded in smug triumph.

"Certainly, sir. I would appreciate the company." Sumter chuckled heartily, his happy disposition restored. "And a guide who actually knows the way."

Sheriff Daimler burst out laughing at the younger man's humorous quip, shaking his head in surrender. Gilbert smiled and shook his own head at his friend's unfailing good humor. He was envious. Not much could dim the man's sunny nature.

"Might I come along, Sheriff Daimler?" Teddy requested anxiously, coming up behind the man.

The Sheriff looked to Beatrice who nodded her permission with a soft smile. Gilbert was pleased she was allowing the boy some freedom. She would be a fine mother for the children.

"Certainly, Lord Smail." Sheriff Daimler dropped his chin in consent. "Can you ride?"

Teddy's eyes suddenly bulged with alarm and his mouth opened and closed rather like a fish out of water. Gilbert doubted the lad had ever been astride a horse before. A pity that. Every young man of his rank should know how to ride. He would have to teach the boy himself. Gilbert smiled at the thought. He was looking forward to the prospect.

"Not to worry, young Lord-ling." Sumter clapped the boy on the shoulder. "You can ride pillion with me."

Teddy visibly relaxed and smiled at the friendly clerk with relieved gratitude.

"Before we take our leave, Mrs. Lourson, I believe I will collect my due." Sheriff Daimler's smile turned genuine as he came around to clasp both Beatrice's hands in his own gnarled fingers.

"Of course, Sheriff." Beatrice smiled beautifully as the older gentleman leaned in and kissed her proffered cheek.

"I claim the right to be next." Sumter announced loudly, chuckling as he took the Sheriff's place and buzzed her cheek.

Beatrice giggled at his nonsense and then Teddy stepped in front of her. He blushed to the roots of his mahogany locks but bravely leaned in and also kissed his aunt.

"Teddy. Thank you." Beatrice exclaimed, ecstatic.

She threw her arms around his narrow shoulders and hugged him close. Enthusiastically, she buzzed him in return which made the boys ears burn even redder, but he suffered in silence. The moment she released him, though, he quickly moved beyond her reach. Mayor Howard and the elderly violinist followed suit but when a group of young man he didn't recognize began moving in, Gilbert wrapped a possessive arm around his bride's shoulders and glared. Enough was enough. Wisely, the other men quickly turned away.

"If you're ready, Sumter, let us be on our way." The Sheriff gruffly announced.

He gave the newlyweds a brief bow and, spinning on his heel, marched away.

"Yes, sir." Sumter tossed a smart salute with a cheeky grin and turned to follow the older man with Teddy on his heels like an eager puppy.

There was a clanging sound and one matronly woman called them all to the tables. Gilbert and Beatrice led the way through the graveyard. As bride and groom, they were considered the hosts for this afternoon's festivities. As such, it was their job to stand at the end of the serving table and greet all the guests. They shook hands and accepted congratulations with happy smiles and grateful nods. It was only after the line had thinned to a trickle that one of the older women sent them off to eat with the rest.

The sun was warm in the sky and Gilbert discreetly shrugged, tugging at his shirt. The damp material was sticking to his skin, becoming very uncomfortable. He was developing a painful thumping behind his eyes and the brilliance of the day wasn't helping. Beatrice smiled up at him as they settled onto the blanket they had used as a bed earlier. Then her smile faded and she touched his forehead in concern.

"You're a little warm. Are you feeling well?"

Not wanting her to fret over him he merely smiled and waved her off. This was their wedding celebration after all and he had no intention of spoiling it for them both. So, he had a bit of a headache. It would pass.