Page 40 of Highlands Homecoming

“Colin, you're my divorce lawyer. Tell them,” Dave pleaded, turning to his former attorney with desperation in his eyes.

But Colin simply shook his head, a sad expression crossing his face. “Actually, Dave, I'm not your lawyer anymore. Your constant interference and accusations regarding my relationship with Melissa caused me to be let go from the firm.”

“What’s more, your name is not on the deed to Greenhill House,” said Margaret with a grin.

“We’re not married; you’re not on the deed … You can see where this is going, right, Dave?” said Melissa.

Dave's cheeks went pale, and he stared at Colin, his mouth agape in shock. “You … you can't do this to me,” he stammered.

“I'm sorry, Dave. But it’s been years since I’ve had a license to practice law in the UK, and even if I did, I wouldn't want to represent someone who doesn't trust me,” Colin replied calmly but firmly.

Dave opened and closed his mouth several times, but no words came out. Finally, he turned to Melissa with a pleading look. “Melissa … please … baby … isn't there anything we can do?”

But Melissa stood tall and unwavering, her voice lacking any hint of hesitation or doubt. “I'm sorry about the misunderstanding, Dave. But Colin is right. I’m sure you fellows can find another property that suits your needs,” said Melissa in the most confident and steady tone she’d ever used in her life.

Melissa savored the sweet feeling of satisfaction as she watched Dave's expression of defeat. Justice had been served, and she couldn't be happier.

Melissa confidently collected her purse. “Well then, I'll be off now. Good luck, Dave. See you around the pubs, then.”

Dave retorted with a hint of sarcasm, “I'm going back to America where they actually speak English!”

He stormed out the door, his two cronies following meekly behind him.

When it was all over, Melissa looked at Margaret, and the two of them burst into laughter. Andrew and Colin joined them.

“Tonight, we’re all going to Greenhill to celebrate!” said Melissa.

Melissa couldn't wipethe smile off her face as she drove back toward Greenhill House. The sun was finally beginning to burst through the clouds, filling the sky with a warm golden glow. Ice glimmered on the trees, and the landscape looked like something out of a fairy tale.

As she turned into the gates, Melissa was struck by how beautiful this gorgeous stone home was, with its rolling hills, tall pine trees, and the magical Loch Ness in the background. And it was all hers, forever. A Mackenzie legacy that had been in the family for generations. As Melissa parked her car, she noticed Colin arrive behind her. He emerged from his car carrying a large box.

“I’ve ordered loads of catering from Lindsay. You didn’t need to bring anything, Colin!”

Colin shook his head. “It’s a present I’ve been saving for this moment, and the time has come.”

He set the giant box down on the steps, and Melissa opened it. It was a large Mackenzie clan shield with their motto:Luceo, non uro.Melissa’s eyes filled with tears as she translated the Latin aloud, “I shine, not burn.”

“Whereas, he who shall not be named will probably always fly too close to the sun, you sparkle, my dear Melissa. And you were just brilliant today, inside and out.”

He kissed her and took her hand as they walked into her home.

Later that evening,the house smelled like fresh bread, cozy fire, and pine. Sunlight streamed through the windows, and the view of the snowy hillside and the old wishing well made Melissa’s heart sing. Lindsay, Elspeth, and Sydney brought in trays of food, while Drew set up a playlist of lively music. Sandy arrived looking dapper and flushed, with Margaret on his arm. Caitlin and Angus joined the party via FaceTime, their faces beaming with happiness.

They ate, drank, bantered, and told funny stories, and Melissa added log after log to the crackling fire. As Sandy stood and hugged Melissa goodbye, tears filled her eyes. “Thank you so much for coming.”

“I’m so happy for you, Melissa. You deserve all this and more,” Sandy said, his eyes drifting toward Colin.

Melissa flushed and hugged him again. “Drive safely!”

“I’ve got my personal chauffeur here,” he said, a twinkle in his eye as he took Margaret’s arm. “Margaret, thank you. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

“I guess you’re stuck with me then,” said Margaret.

“Maybe we’ll have to do something about that,” said Sandy.

Melissa's eyes sparkled as she noticed Colin and Lindsay exchange a knowing glance, a touch of amusement flickering between them.

Melissa hugged Lindsay tightly, not wanting the evening to end. Her best friend had been by her side through all her struggles, and now she had finally achieved her dream.