Page 41 of Highlands Homecoming

"Thank you for everything, Lindsay," said Melissa as they pulled away from each other.

"I'm just happy to see you happy, Mel," replied Lindsay warmly,

Melissa nodded, knowing that she could always count on Lindsay.

"Looks like we're the last ones here," said Colin, who was standing by the fireplace, the amber liquid in his glass casting a warm glow on his face. She moved toward him, her heart pounding in her chest, her breath hitching in her throat.

He turned to her, and she could see the desire in his eyes, mirroring her own. Without a word, he set his glass down on the mantelpiece, and reached for her, pulling her against him. His lips found hers, and she moaned softly at the feel of his mouth on hers. His kiss was demanding and urgent, and she responded eagerly, her tongue dancing with his. He tasted like whisky and smoke, and she found herself wanting more.

They broke apart for a moment, both breathless, and Melissa could see the heat in Colin's eyes. He ran his thumb over her bottom lip, and she shivered at the sensation.

"You're so beautiful," he murmured, before capturing her lips again. This time, his kiss was softer, more tender, and she melted into him, feeling safe and desired.

They kissed for what felt like hours, lost in each other's embrace, until finally they broke apart, both panting and flushed. Melissa sighed and looked up at Colin, feeling a deep sense of satisfaction and excitement at what was to come.

And with that, they disappeared upstairs.

Chapter16

Opening night at the MacAlister Inn was the talk of the town. After their soft opening for Burns Night, the small, well-chosen crowd of locals who’d attended had spread the word about the wonderful food, updated interiors, and all the promise of events to come.

Melissa stopped in early to find the inn buzzing with excitement. Elspeth and Sydney had hung a giantGrand Openingbanner in the entryway. Lindsay had created a gorgeous selection of appetizers and mixed drinks that waiters, circulating around the room, served on trays as guests arrived. The white tablecloths were adorned with lovely heather and thistle bouquets and candles. A fire crackled in the hearth, and the delicious scents of pine, haggis, and scotch filled the air.

Melissa made her way to her table with Colin. They savored their drinks and dug into tiny meat pies, croquettes, oatcakes, and an assortment of cheeses. Melissa felt a warm glow around her as she realized this was exactly where she belonged.

Just then, Sandy and Margaret arrived. Hand in hand, they looked like they were ready to celebrate a 60th anniversary rather than six weeks or so of dating.

Sandy pulled the chair out for Margaret, who greeted Colin and Melissa with little cheek kisses before sitting down. Sandy gave Melissa a gentle kiss on the cheek, feeling like a father figure to her. She couldn't help but hope for something more in the future, but she knew she was getting ahead of herself.

Once all the guests arrived and the main courses were served, Lindsay was able to slip in and join the table.

“You’ve done it again, Lindsay!” said Sandy, raising a glass to his daughter.

“Incredible. I’d ask for the recipes, but I’m sure it’s a trade secret,” said Margaret.

“Oh, these are just traditional Scottish recipes that I’ve made my own. I learned it all from my mother …” But as Lindsay spoke, she couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness in her chest. Her mother was no longer here to taste her creations and offer her words of praise.

Sandy, sensing Lindsay's change in mood, reached out and gave her a gentle squeeze on the shoulder. "And your mother would be right proud of you. I guarantee it.”

“If you’ll excuse me, I’m going to go see the new tiles in the loo,” said Margaret.

As Lindsay watched Margaret walk gracefully through the dining room, Sandy watched Lindsay, understanding the bittersweet emotions that must be running through her mind.

"It's all right, Lindsay," Sandy reassured her. "She understands."

“She’s a wonderful woman, Da. Truly,” said Lindsay, her eyes glistening as she looked at her father.

“I’m glad you feel that way,” Sandy said mischievously. “How did the desserts turn out?” he asked, almost in a whisper.

“I think everything’s in order,” Lindsay responded with a grin..

Margaret returned, and soon the waiters had cleared the tables and brought out a selection of deserts.

“This looks incredible!” said Melissa, “But how do we decide between cheesecake, raspberry cranachan, shortbread, and rice pudding?”

“A little bit of everything!” said Colin, taking a knife and beginning to divide and conquer. Sandy subtly took the knife from Colin and gave him a knowing look.

“Allow me, son.”