Disclaimer: I don't own….

Note: this combines episodes 2 and 3 of season 6. I hope you enjoy!

Thank you to friends, users and guests who have left comments!!! Louise725; JjPutnam81; Livin4Jesus Your support means a lot!

If you don't like the selection, save your time and don't read it. if you do you like the selection but want my opinion on what's happening, just email me-please use reviews to comment on the story "I Need You". Flames fired at Lori Loughlin or myself, and reviews with inappropriate language by guests or members on this story will be deleted. I don't condone her actions, but we need to forgive and move on. This is a story with Lori Loughlin in mind until Hallmark replaces her. (I think Kelli Williams from Lie to Me would make a great Abigail!) The show must go on!

As will the story... starting now

"Henry? I believe I owe you this."

Henry Gowen looked at Abigail Stanton confused.

She looked mighty lovely in her lace blouse and red was certainly her color...

"What for?" he didn't mean to sound alarmed, as she attempted to hand him the ten dollars he had given her due to the crashing of their farming stock.

She needed the money more than he did…

"Because I understand that this came out of your own pocket." she raised an eyebrow, and he winced.

Abigail smiled. "You don't have to do that, Henry."

Henry suddenly got an idea. He'd give her most of the profit- it wasn't much- especially after their history when she first decided to open the Cafe and he had tried to foil her plans at every turn.

"Tell you what. You didn't lose all of it." he gave her back the majority of the money.

She smiled fondly at him.

"Henry, I knew the risks when I asked you to invest for me. Nobody's perfect."

He winced. "Don't I know it."

Glad to have that discussion over with, both stood side-by-side as they watched different couples on the dance floor.

Henry wanted to ask Abigail to dance, and she secretly wanted him to ask her to dance, but both kind of nervous especially considering their history…

All too soon the dance ended- to prevent things from being even more awkward, Henry decided to take his leave

"Well, goodnight."

Abigail smiled, giving him a polite nod.

"Goodnight, Henry."

Henry groaned as he put his hands over his eyes. He should have asked Abigail to dance!

Those last moments before they left could have been the perfect opportunity to show the world that Abigail Melody Stanton was his, and he was proud of that fact, and her.

He smirked sleepily as he remembered she had tried to give him back the full ten dollars.

His pride wouldn't let him do that. He opted for the good old fashioned 7-3… those three dollars might just lead to the cost of something wonderful...

"Night Abigail" he muttered into the dark, not caring she wasn't there to answer- He held his pillow that much closer…

Henrigail- Romance

That night Henry Gowen slept like a baby, but it was certain that others had not, including the Mayor.

Today was the day things were going to change, especially between the two of them.

He wasn't afraid to show her again how he felt, in private, but he also understood her need for discretion in public.

This relationship was so new and fragile to both of them, and Henry really didn't want to do anything to make Abigail feel uncomfortable in any way, but he decided this morning he could at least say hello...

The Cafe was open and no one was in yet, so Henry snuck up behind Abigail, and gave her a kiss on the cheek.

He wasn't prepared to see or feel her jump.

"Abby? You okay?" he asked, slightly concerned.

"Mmm? Sorry Henry… didn't sleep very well last night…" *yawn*

Henry snatched the knife out of her hands before she could chop her fingers off…

"H-ey! I need that! Giveitba *yawn* -back!"

Henry grinned and shook his head at her, waving his finger at her.

"Didn't your mama tell you the difference between cooking and sleeping in the kitchen? Now you get on to bed for a couple hours, and I'll have Cody wake you up"

Abigail did something completely out of character just then.

She stomped her foot and pouted.

"No! Now give me back that knife Henry, and I mean now!"

Henry glared at her. "Abigail Melody Gowen you get back up those stairs this minute! And I mean now!"

He tried to look stern, but one look into her beautiful sleepy face, forced him to chuckle.

She glared at him, too tired to notice his slip, but turned to do as he ordered.

Henry put the knife back in the steak block and grinned. He grabbed the damp dishrag near the sink.

"Go'on now… get!" His towel hit the back of her skirt and she yelped.

"Get up those stairs Abigail and get to bed!"

She purred like a kitten, grinned sleepily, and pulled on his arm.

Henry flushed big time trying not to remember how closely he had held his pillow the night before.

Bill had his keys jingling outside, no doubt wondering why the door was locked.

Against Abigail, Henry stood his ground.

"We'll talk about this later, young lady, now get!"

Abigail finally disappeared, and Henry rushed to the door opening it; he was out of breath.

"Oh, good morning, Bill. You're probably wondering why I'm here"

Bill looked suspiciously at Henry. He was dressed in clothing similar to his jailhouse attire, and he was strangely out of breath...

"Well, yeah... the thought did cross my mind…"

As if sensing the reason for Bill suspicion, Henry's eyes narrowed.

For goodness' sake! Does he seriously think that Abigail and I… that we…

He folded his arms, looking cross. It was one thing for Bill to think ill of him that way, even though it was untrue to the highest extent…

He'd be darned if Anyone, least of all Bill was going to think or speak ill of Abigail...

"Well unfortunately Abigail is under the weather this morning. She won't be down for a couple of hours."

Bill looked at Henry suspiciously again.

"Is that Carson's diagnosis, or yours?"

Henry was getting agitated- it was none of Bill's business!

"Mine!" he snapped.

"I advise you get to the sheriff's office. Abigail will make arrangements when she's feels better... Right now she needs her rest."

Bill continued to glare suspiciously at Henry, wondering where he had received authority to boss Bill or anyone around!

"Why do you care so much about Abigail?" he asked snidely.

"Because I love her." Henry stated without flinching.

Well I'll be! He finally admitted it!

Bill waved Henry off as the former Mayor watched him leave.

Even after Bill left, Henry stood there for some time until it was time to head over to the saw mill.

He made good use of that time getting the water and vegetables prepared for Abigail to make along with her famous pot roast.

Henry laughed to himself as he recalled last Christmas' roast… that had been the talk of the town for two weeks!

He thought about different men in Abigail's life that had come and gone- Noah, Henry himself, Bill, and Frank, and now Henry again…

He wondered that if Noah and the other men survived, would she be as happy as they were at this moment?

If Noah were alive Henry knew they wouldn't be the same people.

For every time there is a season for everything under Heaven…

Henry's thoughts eventually turned to Ray Wyatt as they sometimes did.

How was he making out in prison?

Would he get parole?

Then another thought caused Henry to worry.

If Wyatt did get out of prison, would he seek revenge?

From Henry?

From Bill?

From… Abigail?

Henry swallowed thickly, then channeled the rage he felt into slicing thick potatoes for the soup Abigail intended to make.

No one would ever harm Abigail- Not while Henry Joseph Gowen still had breath in his body…

Later that day...

Abigail and Elizabeth noticed Ned Yost, Florence and Kate standing in a group complaining about Bouchard and how late the saloon had been opened the night before.

When she asked what was wrong, they complained about the noise and music.

"So, what're we gonna do about it?"

Everyone looked over at Abigail.

Oh great! Just my luck for being Mayor!

Her plan was to approach Bouchard diplomatically in the hope that they could reach some sort of compromise.

If not, if he had taught her nothing else during his time as Mayor, Henry Gowen taught her it was always to have an extra card up one's sleeve…

She entered the saloon which wasn't very busy due to others being at work.

"Madam Mayor. This is a pleasant surprise.What can I get you?"

She smiled politely, feeling awkward.

"Well… Unfortunately, this isn't a social visit."

Lucas smirked "I see."

"First, let me say how happy we are that your business is doing so well."

Lucas raised an eyebrow "I sense a "but" coming."

And you'd be right, slick talking sidewinder!

Good gracious she sounded like Bill! Or maybe even Henry! she flushed slightly, demanding her body to keep composed...

"There are some concerns about the hours you keep, and the noise."

Bouchard looked annoyed.

"The noise?"

Abigail was getting agitated.

"Yes, from your patrons and the music.But I was hoping you'd be willing to help us."

He looked at her sideways.

"What do you have in mind?"

"Perhaps you could close by 10:00 pm."

Smirk.

"That is a little early, isn't it?"

" Well, those are the hours that Tom kept when he was running the saloon."

"I- "

The Mayor was adamant "I don't think it's unfair."

Lucas sighed.

"Ok. I'll watch the hours."

Lucas sighed wondering how to get around the mayor.

"And the noise." she prodded.

"And the noise. Especially if we're not busy."

Abigail nodded, certain that something was going to go wrong, but not certain why...

"Thank you. And congratulations again on your success."

Just like Ray Wyatt had done to her face when she denied vote for the railroad route to pass through the southern lands, Lucas smirked behind her back, shaking his head as well…

To see this, Abigail would have been unnerved.

As she left however, she did feel a certain chill up her spine…

Later that night...

It was 10:30 at night!! 10:30!!!

As annoyed as she was that her request had been ignored, that was nothing in comparison to Cody coming down and saying that his sleep had been interrupted- again!

That was it!!

"Mom?"

"Oh, did the music wake you up again?"

"I think it's louder than last night."

"Are you gonna let him have it?"

"Go back to bed. We'll talk about it in the morning."

Taking off her apron she stormed outside.

Play it cool… don't go all Mama bear yet!

Entering the saloon for the first time since the opening was like night and day for Abigail.

All around her men were drinking, which was normal in a saloon, but she hadn't been expecting to see two fellows arm wrestling (better than fighting), as well as Telephone Operator Fiona Jenkins to be whooping aloud that she'd just beaten a competitor in darts...

As if the smoke wasn't bad enough what really got her goat was the identity of two men with Bouchard: Mike... and Henry!

"Mike... Henry" she said sidling up to their table and smiling at them sweetly.

"Enjoying the game?"

Oooooh I hope you enjoy your game Mister! We're gonna talk!

Henry looked up and couldn't help the feeling of being caught red handed.

He swallowed thickly.

Oh crap!

"Well, I'd be enjoying it a lot more if Lucas here wasn't cleaning up." he smirked.

I can explain!

Henry went over in his mind why he had sat down in the first place.

He had entered the saloon after work, nothing really on this mind except to get a nice cool beer to cool down from the hot sun they had been experiencing lately.

Lucas Bouchard was at one of the tables shuffling a deck of cards, when he nodded at Henry.

"Mr. Gowen"

"Mr. Bouchard"

Lucas smirked.

"Kinda nice not to have a preacher breathing down my neck…"

Henry wanted to scowl at him, but he kept his cool.

"Oh? He's not here?"

Lucas shook his head

"Cleared out soon as I sat down... I offered him a seat, but he declined"

'Good' Henry thought for Silas' benefit.

Had Reverend Anderson sat down with Mr. Bouchard, it would possibly have ended up in a fight, with both of them in jail.

"He doesn't like me much" Lucas smirked.

'Well for the record, I don't either!' Henry thought.

"Too bad" Henry said noncommittally.

"His loss" Lucas shrugged, "he'll never fit in here... at least, not for long…"

Henry turned and faced Bouchard head-on raising an eyebrow…

"And just what do you mean by that?"

Lucas smirked and rubbed his beard.

"He's too old... especially for Mrs. Thornton…" he started dealing cards.

"Hang on there sonny boy... he and I aren't too far apart in age... what's more, he's been here longer than you have!"

Lucas shrugged and smirked again.

"Yeah, well, that's in the past... this is now. 'Elizabeth shouldn't marry a toad, when she's got a prince in front of her… He should be careful he doesn't get too close" he scoffed, shaking his head.

Henry nearly spit out his beer in disgust. Bouchard it not only just threatened Silas but also Elizabeth...

Say that to my face you tongue twisted charlotin!

Those next three words slipped out of Henry's mouth before he could stop them…

"You wanna bet?!"

Before long Mike had joined the game, and Henry was losing...

Presently

"I'm not really enjoying it."

Henry gave Mike a sideways look, attempting to control his urge to glare at him.

Mike's current look could rival that of a kicked puppy.

Henry had suspected Mike of taking a shining to Abigail ever since two Christmas' ago when the two had observed the float plans together...

Suck it up! She's mine you two-bit whining swindler!

Get away from this Abigail! he'd wanted to growl.

Henry wanted to groan, wondering who had been the bigger fool, him or Lucas Bouchard…

As she calmly processed what he had just said, her hands were fists.

"Sorry" Bouchard said flippantly

Henry winced, especially when Abigail look straight at him! He knew what she was thinking. It wasn't so much about the loud music and voices that bothered her as much as they bothered her young son, Cody, who did in fact have school in the morning...

One, Abigail didn't see herself as a gambler, and even though Henry and she had discussed a few times that life was a gamble and worth taking risks…

Heh...including us! Henry felt pride just then, until Bouchard called Full House, and then invited Abigail to sit with them…

"Would you like to join us, Mayor? We have room."

Bad move Henry thought, irritated slightly as Bouchard attempted to charm her.

Henry had promised Abigail they would be subtle, so short of folding and guiding her away from the table, he waited and judging by the look in Abigail's eyes, Bouchard wasn't going to get away with his last comment.

"No thank you, I have an early morning, as does my son, Cody."

Henry and Mike winced. They should've known better than to sit down…

"Does he? Forgive me Madam Mayor, but tomorrow is Saturday"

Crap! Henry grimaced. Now ya done it!

But Abigail, bless her angelic heart, despite the fact her hands were tight with fury, smiled.

"No, Mr. Bouchard, it is actually now Thursday. A school day for all of the children in this town, not to mention Mrs. Thornton."

Ouch Henry and Mike exchanged looks.

Henry saw the flicker of… hope, attraction… flicker briefly into Bouchard's eyes.

Not a chance! Henry smirked, still pulling for his friend, however slim that hope might be…

He still hoped that Silas would be able to defend Elizabeth despite the fact Henry had just lost 20 dollars to the Bouchard for the right to flaunt himself at Elizabeth.

It stung too.

Henry had heard Fiona and Bill talking about Bouchard speaking French to a woman when he supposedly didn't know French at all…

Something was fishy, and Henry wanted to get to the bottom of it.

"You gentlemen enjoy your evening"

Henry felt his stomach pound in guilt and sadness when he discovered that Abigail was leaving.

She gave him a warm knowing smile.

I'll see you later that look seemed to say.

Henry wanted to groan out loud. He decided to call it a night.

He'd lost this round against Bouchard, but if he learned anything from Abigail, you should never back down from fighting for those who mean the most to you...

The Next Day

Elizabeth felt bad for Cody and Abigail.

Due to the issue at hand with the saloon, Elizabeth let school out early, hopefully encouraging Cody to go home and get some rest.

Elizabeth rolled her eyes shortly after when Robert convinced Cody and Timmy to play pirates again…

Cody was all full of energy then...

Boys…

Preaching Teacher- Friendship

Later...

Elizabeth felt the Holy Spirit convict her when she advised Abigail to gamble and call Bouchard's bluff. She had known men like him a plenty and had heard rumors that Bouchard was already involved with someone.

Elizabeth was incensed that he would come on to her so strongly if that indeed was the case…

Be careful My child… do not seek to judge thy brethren…

Elizabeth decided to ask Reverend Anderson the question that was bothering her.

She entered the Cafe and he was sitting at a corner table, reading his Bible.

He looked up and smiled when she arrived.

"Mrs. Thornton… what a pleasant surprise… and where is Master Jack this afternoon?"

Elizabeth brightened with the mention of her son.

"He's with my nanny, Laura."

By now Anderson had stood up.

A gentleman…

Elizabeth smiled to herself, thinking Bouchard and his playing mates cads for not rising upon the Mayor's arrival.

"Please, have a seat… is school out so early?"

Elizabeth nodded. "I found that the students and I were restless today due to the occurrences of last night."

Silas frowned. It was one thing for him to lose sleep...he was older and a minister, so he didn't need as much rest as Mrs. Thornton and the children…

Shame on him! he scowled glaring at Bouchard in his head.

"las?"

He'd done it again…

"I'm sorry, what did you say Elizabeth?"

Elizabeth smiled mischievously, knowing that if Florence caught wind of the Reverend using her first name at such an early stage, she'd be tongue wagging for a week...

"Is gambling a sin?"

Silas raised an eyebrow, wondering what brought about the question.

"I don't believe that actual gambling is a sin… men in the Bible cast lots for different things, even our King's clothing when He was sent to the Cross."

Elizabeth sat in attention.

"The Bible does say that the love of money and coveting thy neighbor's wife, house and property is a sin… they all stem from the same heart…"

"Pride?" Elizabeth guessed.

Silas smiled- she was well read…

"Exactly" he nodded.

Suddenly Elizabeth was deep in thought.

"When pride cometh , then cometh shame; But with the lowly is wisdom."

Silas nodded his head, picking up his tea.

"Absolutely" he nodded to her.

As if they had their own conversation, Elizabeth returned his nod with one of her own.

'Be aware and don't allow pride to lead into confrontation.'

They stood at the same time, bade each other farewell, and parted ways.

As Florence and Kate noticed Elizabeth and the Reverend part ways, each started to wonder…

Hmm...

Meanwhile

At the saloon, Henry was on his lunch break and Lucas Bouchard had just bought him a beer on the house.

Henry knew that Bouchard just did it because he wanted dirt on Abigail, but he wasn't about to turn down a free beer…

"Thank you" Henry smiled, raising the glass and taking a sip.

"I didn't expect Mayor Stanton to take it so personally."

Henry had to focus on just what Bouchard was complaining about… he had plans to set in motion for his lady friend...

"She takes her job seriously." Henry smirked thinking about that morning in the Cafe when Abigail was asleep on her feet.

"So do I." Bouchard groused. "There's nothing wrong with people having some harmless fun."

He thought for a minute more.

Henry stood his guard, knowing that if Bouchard threatened Abigail, both Gowen and Bouchard would end up in jail- Bouchard for threatening a public official, and Henry for physical assault and battery.

"The place is busy for a reason." Bouchard sulked.

"Well, you won't get any argument from me about it." Henry shrugged. "I mean, I always thought that Tom ran this place like a nunnery."

Henry felt sorry for poking fun at the man but it had been true...

"If Abigail thinks I'm gonna roll over she is mistaken."

Well if that wasn't karma rearing its ugly head…

Henry had remembered thinking those same words when Abigail had gotten him removed from office and then taken his place...

He smiled it all down with his beer, clapping Bouchard on the shoulder.

"Well, underestimate our mayor at your peril.She has an annoying tendency of getting her way."

He left then, hoping Bouchard would seriously think about his words…

Henry was only poking fun at Abigail, just a little, so he hoped none of this would reach her ears.

Lord knew he may be kicked out of the Café for a week…

The Town Council Meeting

"Uh, Ned? We're ready to start."

"Very good."

He nodded to everyone in attendance.

"Alright. The first item on today's agenda was supposed to be Elizabeth's proposal for a new town library, however, seeing as most of you are not here for that reason Elizabeth has very graciously agreed to postpone that discussion until our next meeting. Therefore, let's get right into it."

"A vote on the proposed town ordinance which states all Hope Valley businesses must close by 10:00pm. Madam Mayor."

"Is the council prepared to vote?"

The council all nodded their heads.

" Hmmhmm."

Abigail nodded.

"Very well. All those in favour."

"Aye."

"Aye."

"Aye."

Lizzie Masters also quietly raised her hand.

"All those opposed."

Rosemary was incensed when her husband raised his hand.

"Lee!" she hissed.

"I'm sorry, Abigail, but my men, they really love the saloon."

"Sometimes I work late."

"I like to have a beer after a hard day."

Mike also raised his hand.

Abigail smiled and nodded graciously.

"You don't have to explain yourselves.That's why we vote."

Elizabeth counted and looked at Abigail.

"The council is split four-four. As mayor your vote breaks the tie."

Lucas glared at Elizabeth wishing she'd stay quiet as Lee Coulter's wife had done.

Beside him, Silas noticed Bouchard's sudden body language shift, and noticed the expression on his face, and whom it was directed at.

He moved his foot to the right rather forcefully…

"Oh!" cried Lucas in pain. His ankle bone was suddenly throbbing violently.

"So very sorry, sir… as you can see these are rather close quarters… Lost my footing for a moment."

Reverend Anderson smiled at the Mayor and Mrs. Thornton both.

Henry coughed and cleared his throat quickly.

"I'd like to ask Mr. Bouchard to step forward."

Lucas did so, trying not to hobble.

"Mr. Bouchard, what you'll find the more time you spend in Hope Valley, is the people here support rather than divide each other"

"and while your saloon is a big hit in town, I think you can see that not everyone is happy.So rather than voting, I'd like to know if you're willing to compromise."

Abigail took a deep breath feeling Henry's eyes on her the whole way.

"I propose that you stay open late two nights per week.What do you say?"

Tick tock tick tock

"I assume three nights would be out of the question?"

Elizabeth let out a scoff of annoyance, but flushed when she caught Silas Anderson's look, whom she had also invited to the meeting - he was shaking his head with a small, knowing smile.

"You would assume right. I have a suggestion about the days, but I will leave that to your discretion."

Her eyes glittered in the same fashion they had when she mentioned about her son and the other students having school.

Weekends it is, then Bouchard thought, wondering if pretty Mrs. Thornton was available for supper that evening.

"In that case we have a deal."

"Very good."

"Here, here." Elizabeth cheered, smiling at Silas.

He smiled at her in return, nodding his head.

"Thank you, everyone. Thank you for coming.This meeting is over." Abigail called over the applause.

Henry decided to stay close to Abigail and keep an eye Lucas just in case.

"Madam Mayor?" Abigail turned to him.

"Let me guess. This was your plan all along."

Abigail smiled deciding perhaps Bouchard wasn't a slick talking sidewinder after all.

"Well, I had a sense of how the vote might go, but I wanted to give you an opportunity to do what was right."

Lucas shifted from foot to foot, despite the pain in his ankle.

"You know, when I first arrived here, the people told me that Hope Valley was different.Today you proved they're right."

Abigail nodded.

"We take care of our own. And that includes you now."

'Hehe that's my girl'

She was planning to turn around, when a familiar black fedora caught her eye.

Henry was going for casual, but it wasn't working out too well.

His joy and pride in something was just too obvious to see.

In truth he had just finished a discussion with their pastor, which brought a grin to his lips.

A Few Moments Before...

"I saw that"

Silas eyed him. "And what exactly did you see?"

Henry scoffed. "You defending the honor of our school teacher"

Silas flushed. "Ah, yes… I also lied, which is not a good thing."

Henry shrugged. "If that's the way you feel, I understand, but it also was pretty crowded in there."

Silas grinned sheepishly, a glint of mischief in his eyes.

"No man should ever regard a woman the way he just regarded Elizabeth. As you mentioned the other night to our beloved Mayor, this isn't the Edwardian era"

Henry howled with laughter. He was also curious.

"How did he regard her?" he asked.

Silas scowled. "Our world is changing. Women are gaining power in our schools and governments… some even in the church" he frowned, but shooed it away.

"Be that as it may, Elizabeth- er, Mrs. Thornton has a very strong, powerful voice, as does Mayor Stanton" he winked, causing Henry to flush.

"They use their voices to invoke change for the next generation, and they do so without ruling over men- which is what Apostle Paul cautions against in the church"

Henry nodded. He had read and understood for himself where Silas was coming from.

God made Adam first, not Eve.

"Be that as it may, Elizabeth was attending to Abigail about her mayoral office. Bouchard gave her a look of anger and disrespect, as if she should have kept silent."

Henry understood. Silas was absolutely right.

"I simply showed him the consequences of such actions"

Both men laughed deeply and freely.

Henry clapped Silas on the shoulder.

"You know, Reverend you are a Godsend for more reasons than one."

Silas raised an eyebrow. Henry shook his head, and Silas understood; another tale for another time.

"For the record, Constable Jack Thornton would've done the same thing, although Bouchard ight have had to pick himself up off the floor"

Henry and Silas burst out laughing again.

Silas had left, and Henry stood waiting for Abigail.

"Henry Gowen, do I detect a smile?"

He continued to smile. Just looking at her made his day.

"It's not a crime now, is it?"

Abigail flushed prettily. "No, but you had become so chummy with Lucas I thought you'd be on his side."

"Well, friends reveal themselves."

You, Jack, Elizabeth, Lee, Silas, Bill...

"I don't go looking for friends, I look for opportunities."

Just like you saw in me...

"And you see one in Lucas?" she asked curiously.

He smirked. "Your words, not mine."

He found himself wanting to hold her and embrace her as he had that morning, but felt they weren't quite ready for that stage in their relationship.

"You did real good today, Abigail." he said with feeling.

There were stars in her eyes. He was proud of her!

Oh, Henry!

She found she wanted him to take her into his strong arms again, and just hold her close, but felt they weren't quite ready for that stage in their relationship.

"Thank you, Henry." she flushed again.

"Afternoon." He tipped his hat, then clasped her hand softly and lay a light kiss upon it.

Abigail flushed when he left, finding a note in her hand…

Picnic up on the lake? If so, I'll be waiting there tomorrow after school lets out. Let's make it count for real this time. All my love- Henry

Abigail felt light headed; she wanted to swoon…

Instead she looked in the direction that Henry had left and shook her head in amazement. That man certainly had changed for the better…

Elizabeth noticed Abigail's whimsical expression and smirked to herself. She had seen that Abigail and Henry had gotten close within the last couple of years… he had certainly changed for the better that she could see… could there be a spark between the former Mayor and her best friend?

"I saw that!" she whispered, putting an arm around Abigail.

They continued to talk until all left home for the evening…

After she was sure that baby Jack was asleep for the night, Elizabeth sat down with her diary and wrote to her husband.

Dear Jack, she began

Since you've been gone there have been so many new changes!

Hope Valley has got a new telephone! It's an adjustment for some and not so for others…

I don't know about this personally, but I'm sure at least Lee has his work cut out for him with Rosemary using the telephone every day…

Elizabeth giggled, wondering what else to write.

Speaking of new changes, one of the most remarkable things that has changed is the relationship between Abigail and Henry! I can't really put my finger on it, but it seems something between them has shifted…

I looked over at Abigail after Henry left today after the town meeting, and she looked as if she had stars in her eyes… I remember being in that position especially when it came to you.

I remember wanting to swoon in your arms and you would pick me up as if I weighed as light as a feather…

Elizabeth sighed sadly.

I miss you so much, and it hurts me to see and know that you're in Jack as I am, but you won't be here to see him grow..: see him able and ready to ride Sergeant... see him get married and see him…

Elizabeth swallowed thickly, her emotions becoming somber

I know that I can't prevent him from doing anything, especially when it comes to the possibility of him following in your footsteps. I just know that he is the last part of you that I have, and as his mother I don't want to lose him as I lost you.

If something happens to Jack it'll be like losing you

all over again and I can't let that happen; at least for now I won't. The Bible says that perfect love casteth out fear...for now I plan to cherish every single moment that I have Jack. I love you both so dearly and pray the best for his future.

Elizabeth's thoughts wandered to the note that Jack had given Abigail. If she were still in Hamilton, she knew that her mother and sisters would start to question her and encourage her to meet someone again, especially considering the fact that little Jack needed a father.

Elizabeth didn't feel that way, especially since Jack had so many uncles it was enough to make her head spin at times.

I know you told me that you want me to find love again, but right now it feels too soon. I don't want to be impulsive- I don't want to rush into anything with anyone else just because it hurts to be alone. I know I'm never alone, but my heart hurts when I'm without you every night…

Maybe someday I will be able to find someone should the Lord bring him into my path, but I know for certain that right now I only have love for one person - our son.

I love you Jack and I always will

Yours forever,

Elizabeth Anne Thornton

Preaching Teacher- Friendship

It was Friday after school let out that Reverend Silas Anderson sought out Mrs. Elizabeth Thornton.

If he were honest with himself he'd say he wasn't here to see the church as much as he was there to see Elizabeth herself; he enjoyed her company.

Although, he wasn't sure how well a friendship with the school teacher might be viewed in the eyes of the town, and her friends…

Silas winced as he thought about who he had been before, when the town was called Coal Valley.

He and Henry both had been employed by the railroad and mining companies, and no matter the squabbles that he had had with Henry, Silas had been no better, though you couldn't tell him that at the time...

He had been guilty of pride aplenty- he enjoyed having people see him as the leader of the church, a pinnacle of righteousness in the community.

He hadn't given a care for his flock except in jealousy when Cat Montgomery led his flock away as she shared the biblical knowledge the Lord instilled in her to share with others.

Silas' face flamed in shame with the memories… how could he do something so selfish and unrighteousness as to blame a poor widow for burning down the church?

He shook his head, then tears came into his eyes as he thought about Camila, the sweetest, green-eyed Spanish beauty he'd ever known.

Her family was originally from Spain, and they had tried to head for Mexico, but found the traveling treacherous, so the family decided to remain in Canada.

She had lost her mother at birth, and her father at the time they met; her oldest brother Juan took her in.

Instead of friends, Camila spent most of her time with her family and her pet goat, Marie.

Silas loved spending time with Camila. They would often laugh together, and teach each other things. He taught her to horseback ride and to speak French.

She in turn taught him Spanish and how to fence.

They would tease each other and laugh and hold hands. He'd nicknamed her Esmeralda.

After six months, Silas and Camila fell in love, and wanted to marry, but her brother forbade it, saying that Esme would marry a cousin of theirs.

Camila refused, and Juan had slapped her, forbidding her from seeing Silas ever again.

Sadly the wedding to her cousin happened, and a year later she was pregnant.

Silas was brokenhearted and longed for his beloved, but knew it was a sin.

Tragically during Christmas two years ago, Camila escaped and fell through a thin sheet of black ice.

They never found her, but the baby, born deformed, had died of exposure to the elements.

The child, born lighter than either of his parents was given a cruel name by his father, and Silas shook with anger (and cold) at the time.

"Rest in peace, Alejandro Miguel" he whispered, tears in his eyes, as he had kissed the babe's frozen head. "Your mother and I loved you so very much."

He had buried the child himself, grieving that his beloved was lost to him forever.

"Te amo mi Esmerelda Camila te amo infinidad"

(I love you my emerald Camila, I'll love you forever"

Now, five years later since he was last in Hope Valley, and nearly two years after he lost his "family", He had given Camila his heart, but now wondered if it were time to start again…

Elizabeth looked up when she heard someone enter the school.

"Reverend Anderson! Welcome to the Jack Thornton School! What brings you here?"

Silas' ears perked up at hearing 'Jack Thornton School.'

He was convinced even more now that they may need to find another place of worship…

He found himself nervous which was a little silly… but it had been nearly two years since talking to a young lady, especially one as pretty as Mrs. Thornton.

Adelante, mi amor… hablar con ella!

(Go ahead, my love… talk to her!)

Silas flushed, smiling fondly at hearing Camila in his mind. There hadn't been a jealous bone in her body…

Apparently he had her blessing then…

"I was wondering if, since it's such a beautiful day outside and class is over…"

Elizabeth looked at the Reverend expectantly, noticing his embarrassment.

She smiled to herself.

"Perhaps you would like to take a ride with me?"

Elizabeth raised an eyebrow.

Interesting prospect… and Sergeant does need a ride…

She looked at the papers on her desk and inwardly groaned.

Go, Elizabeth…

Jack??!!

Hehe Yep it's me… I think you should go…Just stay away from the saloon…

Elizabeth smirked.

But… I've got papers to grade, and Baby Jack…

Is with Laura, sweetheart… you'll never get out and find love again if you're stuck at the school… besides! Reverend Anderson is a good man, just consider giving him a chance…

Elizabeth was unsure.

As if he could sense her uncertainty, Elizabeth could hear Jack again in her head.

He's not down on his knee, is he?

Well, no…

Then at least be friends with him… Nothing wrong with having friends… as long as they don't own the saloon…

Elizabeth laughed. That was definitely something Jack would say if he were here.

I love you, Jack and I miss you…

I love you too, darlin… the faster you go, the faster you get home to our son… he's hungry…

Elizabeth laughed again, and grabbed her coat and the key to lock the school.

Silas had been wandering around, looking at the school layout, and had taken notice of the brown plaque with blue lettering and white accents.

"Who made this?" he asked as the teacher walked over to him.

He inwardly breathed a sigh of relief.

"The children" Elizabeth smiled proudly.

Silas raised an eyebrow. The workmanship was exquisite!

Elizabeth caught his expression and laughed.

"Well, they did have help from Henry Gowen"

Silas smiled warmly at the mention of his friend.

Henry had come a long way from being the Mayor and man he had been.

Silas wondered if that had anything to do with current Mayor Stanton…

"Penny for your thoughts?" Elizabeth asked.

"Just thinking about Henry. He was rather intimate in saying goodbye to Mayor Stanton the other night"

Elizabeth looked halfway shocked. "I knew it!" she grinned triumphantly.

They descended the stairs together. Anderson's filly was standing close to Sargeant.

Their muzzles were rather close for a first time meeting...

Elizabeth smirked and looked up at Silas.

"If I didn't know better, I'd say spring was in the air"

Silas grinned. "Well, for every time there is a season"

Elizabeth nodded and smiled.

"She's beautiful" she said, reaching out to pet the mare's nose.

The horse was currently licking Elizabeth's hand, searching for a treat.

Elizabeth giggled.

"No, no, mi niña, tengo tu manzana aqui"

(No, no, my girl, I have your apple right here)

Silas stepped forward, giving a whole red apple to the horse. He gave another to Sergeant, and offered a third to Elizabeth.

She accepted it gratefully with a smile.

"Thank you"

Silas nodded. "You're welcome."

Elizabeth took a small bite and then swallowed.

"What was that language you were speaking? I've never heard it before."

Silas smiled sadly. "Spanish"

Elizabeth sensed there was something amiss, and that Silas didn't want to discuss the issue at the moment.

She decided to let it slide.

"It's lovely." she smiled sympathetically. She nodded to the horse.

"What's her name?" she asked.

Another sad smile. "Esmeralda"

Elizabeth thought she had heard of that name somewhere before, but couldn't remember where…

"Shall we ride?" she asked.

Silas nodded in agreement and allowed Elizabeth to lead the stallion first.

He then led Esmeralda next to Elizabeth, placing the reins over the mare's head.

He looked over at Sergeant. He was a strong, powerful animal, that seemed to be exhibiting grief.

The animal stood still, allowing Elizabeth to mount.

Silas was impressed with how quickly and easily Elizabeth mounted the horse.

"What's his name?" Silas nodded.

"Sergeant" Elizabeth answered, patting the stallion's neck.

"He's a magnificent animal." said Anderson, mounting Esmeralda.

"How long have you had him?"

Suddenly Elizabeth's smile faded and took on the same sadness that Silas had felt moments before.

"A year. He was my husband Jack's horse."

Realization hit Silas like a wave… why the animal seemed listless and sad…

News had travelled quickly about the landslide and the brave Constable Jack Thornton had sacrificed his life to save the lives of two of his men.

Sergeant had been there when Jack lost his life…most likely powerless to help his master most in his desperate time of need.

Tears stung Silas' eyes. How painful that must be…

He decided from then on to tread very cautiously and slowly concerning his friendship with Elizabeth.

If she chose to accept him, he would treat her as the gem and queen that she was.

However, if she did not feel the same, Silas vowed he would stand aside, and support her no matter what.

"How long have you had Esmeralda?"

Silas turned his attention to the teacher as they began their trek north, to Nelson's Ridge.

"Nearly two years… she became mine after the death of a friend."

That feeling of sadness coming from Anderson was back.

Elizabeth realized that just as she had lost Jack, Reverend Anderson had also lost someone dear to him as well…

She had written to Jack last night that she wasn't ready to move on just yet; it felt too soon.

Given time, perhaps a year, maybe the Lord would send someone in her path.

Then again, had He done so already?

I don't know Lizzie... are you cut out to be a minister's wife?

Elizabeth flushed as she heard Jack's voice in her head, lovingly teasing.

She decided to wait patiently for the Lord to move His hand.

Within a year if the Lord did not send anyone else to Hope Valley aside from Lucas Bouchard, and Silas Anderson was intent and keen on the idea, she would accept his proposal of courtship, if that was what he intended.

If a year passed and Silas did not approach her but wished to remain friends, she would accept that as well.

For now she was content on learning about and becoming friends with this humble man of God.

As if he sensed her deep mood, Silas whistled, catching her attention.

He chuckled when she looked over at him confused.

"Now, then Mrs. Thornton, enough thoughts of pain and gloom! We'll race to the lake! Last one there and back treats the other to supper!"

One of the things that Jack had loved about her was Elizabeth's competitive streak.

She felt more than ready for the challenge…

Her eyes twinkled with mischief.

"I believe, my dear Reverend, you've got a deal! Prepare for defeat! HYAH!"

It took Silas a moment before he realized she'd gotten a head start.

"Vamos! HA!"

They rode together to Nelson's Ridge by the lake, saying hello to Abigail and Henry, as well as waving to Carson and Faith down the way.

Elizabeth savored the company of her friends, which now included Silas.

As much as she enjoyed the minister's company, she still missed Jack…

When it was time to go home, Silas helped Elizabeth down, not knowing that some people were watching them.

They both smiled at each other and Elizabeth made her way home.

Most of them women, many in the crowd were pleasantly surprised and pleased.

There was someone though not so happy about seeing the Reverend with the schoolteacher…

Henrigail- Romance

Henry and Abigail sat together on the blanket after Silas Anderson and Elizabeth Thornton left.

They were talking about Wednesday night.

"Did you lose the game?"

Henry finished his apple pie, putting everything back in the basket, then leaning back to rest. He gave a satisfied sigh.

"Yeah, but not by much" Abigail smirked and cuddled next to him, laying her head on his chest.

Henry beamed with love and pride. This was how it was supposed to be.

They were both watching Silas and Elizabeth ride off to town together.

As the minister and young lady vanished from sight, a mischievous thought sprang into Henry's mind. He just hoped that he didn't scare Abigail in the process...

Abigail squealed and giggled when Henry turned her around, giving her kisses all over her face, lingering on her lips.

She couldn't have asked for a better, sweeter, thoughtful man as Henry Gowen to spend this romantic afternoon and evening together.

As the sun set beautifully along the lake, Abigail relished in how special she felt, safe and loved in Henry's arms.

"How so?" she giggled.

Warm, strong, possessive arms wrapped Abigail in a safe loving embrace- she found it impossible to resist.

"My secret weapon showed up just in the nick of time," Henry smirked, nuzzling his nose in her hair

Abigail look at him suspiciously… "Let's just say I had a card up my sleeve" he grinned.

"Henry, you know how I feel about cheating"

Henry shook his head and kissed her. "It's not cheating when my secret weapon is you"

Abigail raised an eyebrow "As Mayor?"

"No" Henry grinned, giving her a mischievous wink.

"As Queen of My Heart"

I hope you enjoyed! Please let me know what you think!