Beast and Beatrice

Chapter twenty-four - Gilbert

  Gilbert lifted his head and smiled down into his new wife's face as he returned her to her own feet. 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 surprising to realize she was actually his wife. After Rose, he never expected ever to find another woman he would call his 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, and 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. He stood by while Beatrice bent to sign her name. While he awaited his turn, 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 would have unnerved him just days ago, but now he didn't mind the crowd.

  With Beatrice at his side, he felt ready to re-enter society. Maybe he could offer his skills to the community. 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 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. The idea had merit and, pleased, he smiled with satisfaction.

  Just then, Beatrice waved him forward, and he moved to take her place before the registry. A hasty scrawl, and his name was inked next to hers. When he finished, 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 grinned in return. 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? Sumter wisely 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 the couple back to the other side of the alter.

  Gilbert obediently escorted his lovely bride into place. The villagers murmered amongst themselves, their attention having wandered in the interim, and the little clergyman held up his hands, calling for silence.

After the crowd quieted, he proudly announced in a strong, clear 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 could easily drown in those soft, chocolate brown pools. She was so warm, so caring and sweet. He would do anything for her. He'd even faced down his most devastating fears because she'd asked it of him. She was more than his wife. She was his strength, his reason for being.