Trust, Love, Happiness Chapter 6: Love Goes Deeper, a when calls the heart fanfic

Trust, Love, Happiness

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters or anything else in this story. All credits go to the Hallmark Channel, Janette Oke, Brian Bird, Michael Landon Jr., the actors, and the writers of this amazing show. No copyright infringement intended.

Chapter 6

November 14th

On Tuesday morning around 6:15, Elizabeth was in the kitchen drinking some of her usual morning coffee when Rosie came in after starting to get dressed for work that day. Rosie saw Elizabeth in her gym clothes and wanted to know what Elizabeth was up to. "Good morning, Elizabeth. I see you're in your workout clothes."

Elizabeth looked up from her coffee mug. "Yeah, Jack and I talked last night and we're going to the gym this morning then spend the day together. He'll be here in 15 minutes or so. I should actually get breakfast started before he arrives."

As Elizabeth rose from her seat and went over to the fridge to pull some stuff out for breakfast, Rosie sat on the stool near the counter and asked, "How are things going between the two of you? You seem like you're safe and comfortable with Jack."

Elizabeth smiled. "We're doing well and I am safe and comfortable with him. I don't have to hide or be afraid of anything when it comes to Jack whereas with Charles, well you know. Enough about Jack and me. So, how are things going with you and school and all? We've been a hit and miss lately so haven't had a lot of time to talk."

Rosie finished her coffee. "School is going well. Keeping me busy for sure. By the way, do you have any plans for Thanksgiving?"

Elizabeth finished making the scrambled eggs before starting on the sausage. "Jack and I are going to have Thanksgiving with our families out at my parents. His mom and brother will be coming to Beaufort next Tuesday so they'll be staying here in town for a few days."

After talking a little bit more, Elizabeth finished making breakfast then went to finish packing her bag before stepping outside to wait on the porch for Jack who was on his way. She was excited to see him and spend the day with him as always.

After sitting on the porch for about 5 minutes, Elizabeth sees Jack pull up in his Ford F-150. When he got out of his car, she ran in his direction and swung her arms around his neck kissing him, which he welcomed and even enjoyed.

Jack, with his arms wrapped around Elizabeth's waist, smiled. "Wow...what a way to say good morning! How are you, babe?"

"I'm great but even better now that I'm with my sweet, handsome man. Would you like a little breakfast before we head out for the day?"

"Sure. Breakfast sounds good. Don't want us to work out on an empty stomach. Let's go inside."

As Jack & Elizabeth were coming inside for breakfast, Rosie was making her way out the door to head to school & smiling when she saw her friends holding hands. "Good morning, Jack. How are you today? I heard you and Elizabeth were spending the day together. Do y'all have anything fun planned after the gym?"

"Good morning Rosie. I'm great especially now that I'm with my beautiful girlfriend." Jack looks at Elizabeth and smiles before continuing. "And yes, after we go to the gym we're actually going to spend the day in Hilton Head."

"That sounds like fun. Wish it wasn't a school day so that I could hang out with y'all. It's been a long time since I've been."

Elizabeth smiled. "We wish you could too. Maybe we can all plan a weekend trip down there in the future and we'll invite Lee to go with us."

"That sounds wonderful Elizabeth. Let's definitely plan to do that."

Jack and Elizabeth smiled and nodded before Rosie continues. "Alright. I wish I could stay a few more minutes and hang out but it's time to head to school. Hope you two lovebirds have a wonderful & fun day. Looking forward to hearing about it. See you later!"

Jack and Elizabeth smiled again and said in unison, "Thanks, Rosie. Hope you have a great day too. See you later!"

A few minutes later Jack and Elizabeth finished breakfast. She got her gym bag then they headed out the door to start their day together.

During the fairly short drive to the gym, they held each other's hand and shared the occasional loving glances.

After one of their occasional loving glances Jack, still holding Elizabeth's hand says, "So, are you ready for our day, darling?"

"Of course, I am sweetheart. There's no one else I would rather spend this day with than you. Can't wait to explore Hilton Head with you."

"I can't wait either. I just know it's going to be a great day whenever you're here with me."

"Jack, you're so sweet. I love you."

"I love you too." Jack then kissed her hand as they arrived at Omni Health & Fitness. When they arrived, Jack got out of the car then walked around to open Elizabeth's door before heading inside.

It was now 8 am. They had already been working out for 15 minutes and there were only a few people there including Jack and Elizabeth. After being on the rowing machine and cable weight machine, they were both already tired and sweaty and decided to take a short water break. When they finished their break, they got on the treadmill. As they were starting on the treadmill, Jack decided to take off his shirt leaving him in only his workout shorts as he thought about how it would drive Elizabeth crazy.

"What is he doing? He knows it drives me crazy when he does that. It's a good thing Jack isn't looking right now because I can't stop staring. Oh, my goodness... I don't think it's possible for other men to be any more good-looking than my Stud. His toned abs, 6 pack, muscles, and those strong arms I love being wrapped in. I think I need a fan! My sweet man is so sexy!"

They were now nearing the end of their workout for the day. While Elizabeth was focused, Jack, on the other hand, was not. He looked over at her smiling. He couldn't focus because of admiring her beauty.

"What in the world?! It is a good thing Elizabeth isn't looking right now because I can't stop staring. Oh, my goodness...her curves, the way her workout clothes hug all the right places, her long legs, her toned muscles. I think I need some water. My Bella is so beautiful inside & out. I'm so lucky to call her mine."

Just a few minutes later, they finished their workout and decided to go shower and change for the rest of their day together. When they reached the doors to locker rooms they gave each other a quick but sweet kiss.

As they pulled apart Jack caressed her cheek and gazed into her eyes smiling. "I enjoyed that workout with you. Can't wait for the rest of our day. I'll see you soon, babe."

"I enjoyed it too and can't wait either. See you soon, sweetheart."

After she said that they headed for the showers.

A little while later, Jack and Elizabeth met back up at the front of the fitness center after showering and changing clothes. Jack was wearing a plaid buttoned shirt with jeans and rainbows flip flops while Elizabeth was wearing a light pink and blue floral top, light pink sweater, distressed skinny jeans with holes in the knees, and a pair of white keds.

When they greeted each other, they smiled and Jack gave her a sweet kiss on the cheek. "Hey, darling."

"Hey, cowboy. You ready to go?"

"Yes, I'm ready. I know I've already said this but it won't hurt to say it again...can't wait to spend the day with you. And may I just say...you look absolutely beautiful as always, Elizabeth."

"You're so sweet, Jack. I can't wait to spend the day with you too. And thank you. You look pretty handsome yourself. Let's head out."

With that being said, they walked out to the truck. Jack opened Elizabeth's door and made sure she was inside the vehicle before closing the door and walking around to get in on his side. Jack then started the truck and they headed out to Hilton Head for their fun day ahead.

Jack and Elizabeth became hungry after their time at Harbor Town Lighthouse Museum and decided to go to Wayback Burgers for lunch before continuing their day. They both ordered grilled chicken sandwiches, water with lemon, and shared a milkshake.

While eating their lunch, Jack brought up their plans for Thanksgiving. "So, Bella. I've been thinking about our Thanksgiving plans and I wanted to talk to you about it."

Elizabeth looked at him, "Are you having second thoughts? If you are, we can figure out something else."

Jack smiled, "No, not having second thoughts at all. I'm just wondering how you're feeling about meeting my mom and brother. I can tell you that they will love you so there is nothing to be nervous about. My dad would've loved you too."

Jack had never given Elizabeth a reason to not trust him so she knew she could trust him on what he said about his mom and brother loving her.

"I'm nervous but I trust you on it, Jack. I'll relax about it. My parents and sister will love you too and there's nothing to worry about with them either. Just remember, we can get through anything that happens as long as we do it together."

Jack reached for Elizabeth's hand and squeezed it while smiling and feeling the love for his girlfriend getting stronger.

The couple finished eating and decided that their next stop would be Sea Pines Forest Preserve.

Jack and Elizabeth went to Sea Pines Forest Preserve for a couple of hours then decided to go for a walk on the beach at Islanders Beach Park.

The couple enjoyed their view and that included the view of each other. As Jack and Elizabeth made their way down the beach holding hands, they exchanged loving glances and smiles before Jack decided to stop them both. He stood in front of Elizabeth with his hands now holding on to her shoulders and looked deeply into her eyes. "Elizabeth, I have enjoyed our time together today as always and just want you to know how much I love you. I hope there is a future for us where you'll become Mrs. Thornton and if that happens and when we're ready, we could get started on the Thornton Clan. However, I know it'll only happen if it's God's Will. If it is, it'll happen in His timing. I hope I'm not making you nervous or anything by expressing what I've had on my mind all day. I just want you to know how I feel about us."

Elizabeth chuckled as she looked down then back up at her loving boyfriend. "No, you're not making me nervous or anything. I appreciate you wanting to share what has been on your mind especially about us. I don't know what the future holds but the way you just described what you want for yours; it's one I couldn't turn down if the opportunity were to come up. I hope one day I'll be Mrs. Jack Thornton and we have our Thornton Clan but as you said, it'll only happen if it's God's Will and if it is, we have to trust His timing. I love you, Jack."

After she said the last of her response, Jack leaned in and kissed his Bella who kissed him back with such love. After their intimate moment, they finished their walk on the beach then decided to head back to Beaufort.

As the couple headed back to Beaufort, they intertwined their hands and shared occasional glances full of love for the other. Just then, Jack heard a song he recognized and turned up the radio.

"Jack, what song is this?"

Jack looked over at his beautiful girlfriend, "It's called 'Yours' by Russell Dickerson. It's one of my favorites and I think about us every time I listen to it."

Elizabeth kept her eyes focused on him and smiled knowing how much he loved her. As Elizabeth listened to the words, she ended up recognizing it and began to sing which made Jack want to join her and both had a blast singing together.

"I was a boat stuck in a bottle
That never got the chance to touch the sea
Just forgot on the shelf
No wind in the sails
Going nowhere with no one but me
I was one in one-hundred billion
A burned out star in a galaxy
Just lost in the sky wondering why
Everyone else shines out but me

But
I came to life when I first kissed you
The best me has his arms around you
You make me better than I was before
Thank God I'm yours

I was a worn out set of shoes
Wandering the city street
Another face in the crowd
Head looking down
Lost in the sound of a lonely melody
Empty pockets at a roulette
Always landing on a lost bet
Just live for the spin and hope for the win
Go all in just to lose again

But
I came to life when I first kissed you
The best me has his arms around you
You make me better than I was before
Thank God I'm yours
The worst me is just a long gone memory
You put a new heartbeat inside of me
You make me better than I was before
Thank God I'm yours

I was a boat stuck in a bottle
That never got the chance to touch the sea

I came to life when I first kissed you
The best me has his arms around you
You make me better than I was before
Thank God I'm yours
The worst me is just a long gone memory
You put a new heartbeat inside of me
You make me better than I was before
Thank God I'm yours
Thank God I'm yours
Thank God I'm yours
Thank God I'm yours."

After the song was over, they laughed and continued their occasional glances, their hands were still intertwined with no intention of letting go and kept the conversation going until they arrived back in Beaufort.

Once they arrived back in Beaufort, Jack asked Elizabeth if she was hungry and she gave her answer by nodding. Jack shared some places of where they could go and Panini's was the final decision.

When they arrived, Jack put his truck into park and smiled looking at Elizabeth before getting out. She caught him staring, "Why are you looking at me like that, Jack? You're not thinking about what I hope you're not thinking, right?"

Jack was surprised by her question and looked at her seriously. "Bella, of course not. Why would I? That's not gentleman like."

Elizabeth couldn't help but laugh, "You are so cute Stud."

They kissed then Jack got out and went over to Elizabeth's side to open the door for her. "

"Thank you, Jack. You're a real gentleman." Elizabeth quickly kissed his cheek then started walking towards the restaurant with Jack following her.

Jack opened the door letting his beautiful girlfriend enter before he did then the couple was taken to a table by a host a couple of minutes later.

Jack pulled the chair out for Elizabeth then sat down himself once she was settled. They were given a menu and made their decisions very quickly. The waitress came over to introduce herself and take orders since they were ready. Elizabeth ordered first, "I will have the Tuscan Steak Panini and water with lemon, please."

Jack then ordered, "I'll have the Fresh Tomato Panini and also water with lemon, please."

The waitress wrote down their orders then took their menus. Jack thanked the waitress and started talking to Elizabeth again. "Bella, what was your favorite part of our day? We had a full but fun day."

Elizabeth agreed then answered his question. "My favorite was the beach and knowing how much you love me. What about you?"

Jack smiled, "The beach and I do love you so much. I want you to take me seriously when I say and show it because I am dead serious about what I'm feeling for you."

Elizabeth smiled as she looked into her loving boyfriend's hazel eyes and intertwined her hand with his. Before she could respond to what he had said, the food came and the couple said Grace before beginning to eat. They spent an hour in the restaurant talking and laughing enjoying each other once they finished eating.

When they were ready to head out, Elizabeth turned to Jack. "Jack, I don't want you to take this personally but I'm ready to go home. It has been a full day and I'm really tired."

Jack nodded and followed her out to the truck and opened the door so she could get in. He got inside the truck and put the keys in the ignition about to start it up the when he felt Elizabeth's hand on his forearm. "Jack, are you upset with me because I want to go home?"

He turned himself towards her responding to her, "Not at all, babe. What makes you think I'm upset? I just want to fulfill your request to take you home. I love you."

He leaned in and kissed her before starting up the truck and made his way to her house. He got out and went over to his Bella's side to help her out and make sure she had everything before walking her to the door. "Thanks for today, Jack. I really enjoyed myself and I'm always happy to spend time with you."

Jack smiled, "I had a wonderful time, too. I always look forward to our time together." He looked at his watch, which showed that it was 9:30. "Well, it's late so I'm going to head home myself. I love you. I'll call you tomorrow. Sleep well."

He started walking away then was stopped by his girl who kissed him, which he always accepted. Once their little intimate moment was over, Elizabeth went in the house and locked the door before Jack went to his truck and drove home. "I'm the luckiest man in the world. Thank you, God, for giving her to me. I just hope it's Your Will that we get married at some point. I love her so much and have never felt this way with anyone else. I know You know how special and how much of a blessing she is to the world." He thought of her on his whole way home.

"I'm the luckiest woman in this world when it comes to Jack. God, thank you for putting Jack in my life. I hope it's Your Will for us to spend the rest of our lives together at some point in the future. I know You know how special and how much of a blessing Jack is to the world." With that being her last thought for the night, she turned to her side and fell asleep.

1 week later (Nov 21st)

It was a foggy but beautiful morning and Elizabeth and Rosie were getting ready to meet with Jack and Lee for breakfast. The four of them were going to Yost's Café, which was known to have really good food, and since they've never been there before, they decided to try it. "Rosie, have you seen my light pink lip gloss? I can't find it. The last time I remember having it was in the bathroom."

Rosie was in her room doing her hair. "I thought I saw it on the counter this morning. With our stuff all over the counter, I wouldn't be surprised if we missed a puppy sitting there. I'm sure your lip-gloss is in that mess somewhere. If you still can't find it when I'm finished with my hair, I'll come help you."

Elizabeth laughed and found her lip-gloss a couple of minutes after walking back to the bathroom. She let Rosie know and did the final touches of her make up.

Meanwhile, Jack and Lee were at their apartment getting ready to see the two most beautiful women in the world for a good meal. "Jack, we are two lucky men when it comes to Elizabeth and Rosie being in our lives. I hope that there is a future for the both of us with our girls. We can't let them go if we can help it."

Jack smiled in an agreement and the men grabbed their wallets and keys before leaving their place.

It was a couple of minutes to 9 am and Rosie and Elizabeth were in front of the restaurant waiting for Jack and Lee. Two minutes later, the women saw the men approaching them. Elizabeth hugged and kissed Jack while Rosie and Lee stood nearby watching and smiling. "Come on, lovebirds. We're hungry."

Jack and Elizabeth laughed and followed them. They sat down at their table and ordered water with lemon to start off while looking at the menu. A couple of minutes later, the waiter took their orders then left to go put their orders in.

"So, Elizabeth. How has your leave been? Do you miss the kids?"

Elizabeth looked at Jack then back across the table to answer Lee's question. "My leave has been good. I do miss the kids very much. I'm hoping to be taken off leave after the New Year."

She got quiet then Rosie asked the sweet couple sitting across from them, "How are things going between the two of you?"

Elizabeth decided to let Jack answer the question as they intertwined their hands. "Things have been wonderful between us. I couldn't ask for a better girlfriend."

Elizabeth lovingly glanced at her sweet boyfriend, "Awe, Jack. You're so sweet. I couldn't ask for a better boyfriend."

He kissed her on the cheek, "I love you, beautiful."

She smiled back, "I love you too, my sweet man."

They then gave each other an Eskimo kiss while Lee and Rosie sat there smiling as they watched.

"We're so happy for the two of you. Elizabeth, it's so wonderful to see you so happy. I think you have a super high chance of spending the rest of your future together."

The couple glanced at each other quickly then started focusing on Rosie and Lee. "So, how are things going between the two of you? We've noticed you've been spending a lot of time together as well. Is there a possibility that you'll become a couple at some point?"

The four of them laughed. "Elizabeth, don't butt in their business."

Lee and Rosie laughed, "Jack, it's perfectly fine. To answer your question, we're doing great and I'd say it's a very high possibility that we will become a couple at some point. So, what are you two doing for Thanksgiving?"

Elizabeth and Jack once again looked at each other before she answered. "Well, Jack's mom and brother are coming later today so I can meet them then we're spending Thursday with both of our families at my parents'. What about you?"

Lee shared that he was going to see his family in Pendleton then Rosie mentioned her plans of staying in Beaufort and spend time with her family.

The couples talked a little bit more before their food finally came. The guys ordered Pancakes with Blueberries on top and a side of bacon and the girls ordered Shrimp and Grits.

They continued to enjoy each other as they ate their delicious meals before leaving to go about their day.

Jack's mom and brother planned to arrive around noon in Beaufort to spend a few days with Jack and Elizabeth and attend the Thanksgiving gathering. Jack and Elizabeth made arrangements to have lunch with Charlotte and Tom at Q on Bay at 12:30.

Before meeting his mom and brother, the couple went on the Sunshine Tour they've been wanting to do and enjoyed themselves.

Ten minutes before the arranged time to meet for lunch, Charlotte and Tom found a parking spot and saw the couple as they walked nearing the restaurant.

Jack saw them and gave each of them a big hug before introducing Elizabeth.

The four of them went inside and ordered before getting into a conversation. After the food was served, the four of them said Grace and enjoyed themselves while they ate.

Jack both ordered a BBQ sandwich and water with lemon and Charlotte and Tom both ordered the Q Burger and unsweet tea with lemon.

After finishing lunch, the couple left to go take care of some things before going back to his apartment to spend the evening with Charlotte and Tom.

That evening, Jack and Elizabeth spent time with Charlotte and Tom at his and Lee's apartment while Lee and Rosie were out doing their own thing.

The four of them talked so Charlotte and Tom could get to know Elizabeth a little better before they decided on watching National Treasure.

After the movie was over, Jack pulled his guitar out and started playing "Never Stop" by SafetySuit while he and Elizabeth sang.

"This is my love song to you
Let every woman know I'm yours
So you can fall asleep each night, babe
And know I'm dreaming of you more

You're always hoping that we make it
You always want to keep my gaze
Well you're the only one I see
And that's the one thing that won't change

I'll never stop trying
I'll never stop watching as you leave
I'll never stop losing my breath
Every time I see you looking back at me
I'll never stop holding your hand
I'll never stop opening your door
I'll never stop choosing you babe
I'll never get used to you

And with this love song to you
It's not a momentary phase
You are my life, I don't deserve you
But you love me just the same
And as the mirror says we're older
I want to look the other way
You are my life, my love, my only
And that's the one thing that won't change

You still get my heart racing
You still get my heart racing
You still get my heart racing
You still get my heart racing
For you

You still get my heart racing
You still get my heart racing
You still get my heart racing
You still get my heart racing
For you."

Charlotte and Tom enjoyed listening to them and definitely knew they loved each other. Deep down inside, Charlotte knew her son had found the perfect one for him and prayed that it would be God's will for them to spend the rest of their lives together.

An hour later, Elizabeth was ready to go home so she said her goodbyes to Charlotte and Tom then Jack drove her home. He walked her to the door and kissed her goodnight before driving back home.

Thanksgiving Day

Around 8 am, Elizabeth went over to her parents' house to help them get the feast ready for later that afternoon. Before the Thatcher's knew it, the Thornton's arrived at the house at 4:00 with a fruit salad and a bag of rolls. The Thatcher's welcomed the Thornton's into their home and enjoyed getting to know each other. They all grabbed a beverage and went into the living room to get to know each other a bit.

"So, Charlotte and Tom. Tell us a little bit about yourselves."

Tom went first. "I'm 20 years old and a Sophmore at Clemson University majoring in Agriculture Economics. I live with my mom on her farm and help with the animals and other jobs that need to be done to keep things running. I love it, too. Mom, your turn."

Charlotte chucked, "Thanks, honey. I retired after teaching 4th grade for 28 years. My husband died when Jack and Tom were 12 and 7 years old. Like Tom stated, we live on a farm so we keep busy without a doubt. Let me just say, we love Elizabeth and we're super happy for her and Jack."

Everyone in the room smiled as the couple lovingly glanced at each other before Elizabeth's sister Julie was asked by Charlotte to tell a little bit about herself.

"I'm Elizabeth's younger sister Julie. I'm 19 years old and majoring in Graphic Design at Art Institute of Charleston but I'm home for the holiday. Besides going to school, I work as a waitress part-time at one of the local restaurants. I enjoy it, too."

Next, Grace shared a little bit. "Well, I'm Grace. I live here in Beaufort with William and work as a Sewing Teacher. I've been teaching sewing since before Elizabeth was born so for years. I also love reading and spending time with William and the girls."

William spoke up next. "I'm William. Like Grace stated, we live here in Beaufort. I've been the Boating Director at the Beaufort Marina for 26 years. I love doing hands-on projects as well as work on cars. What I love the most though is being with Grace, Elizabeth, and Julie."

Everyone smiled and all looked at Jack who was the final one to share. "I'm Jack Thornton and just turned 25 last month on the 4th. I grew up in Pendleton on the farm. I stayed in Pendleton after graduating high school to attend Tri-County Technical College to study Law Enforcement. My best friend got me a job with the Beaufort Police Department and I've been working there for a little over 2 years now. I love what I do even though it is dangerous. I can't see myself doing anything else. Wearing my uniform isn't just an honor. It's also my life, my calling. It's my destiny. I love Elizabeth and I hope that one day, she'll become Mrs. Jack Thornton."

Everyone looked at the couple smiling & loving the way Jack and Elizabeth were with each other.

By the time everyone finished sharing about themselves, it was time to get started on the feast and they all enjoyed each other over dinner and dessert for the few hours that they were gathered together.

Dec 16th

Around 9 am, Jack and Elizabeth left Beaufort to drive to Pendleton for an early
Christmas gathering with both of their families.

While enjoying the drive, the couple listened to the radio as well as talked and sang. About halfway through the drive, the song "The Bad Days" by David Ramirez played and Jack and Elizabeth sang along to it like they did with "Yours" by Russell Dickerson.

"There are gonna be days when you hate me

There are gonna be days when I make you mad

There are gonna be days when you don't know what we're doing

Maybe some days you wish you could take it all back

There are gonna be days when the love is so thin

The days are a game that we just can't win

There are gonna be days you might want to be free

There are gonna be days that you hate me

But hold on strong

Don't let go

We'll carry on I know we can find a way

'Cause you're still my girl in the bad days

There are gonna be days I haven't seen you for months

Nights when my lover is a basement club

There are gonna be weeks when you're all alone

Because of the days, I'm chained to that open road

But I hope the years that we come up short

Are swallowed by the years that we make it work

I pray the times when our love is sweet

Outweigh the days that you hate me

But hold on strong

Don't let go

We'll carry on I know we can find a way

'Cause you're still my girl in the bad days."

When Jack and Elizabeth with her family following them in William's car finally arrived at the farm, Charlotte and Tom came out to the driveway to greet everyone.

Charlotte and Jack took Elizabeth and her family inside to get them settled while Tom stayed outside and worked a little bit. Once settled, Jack gave Elizabeth and her family a tour of the farm, which they all enjoyed.

December 17th

At 7 am, Charlotte and Jack were cooking breakfast while Tom was outside as the Thatcher's woke up and came downstairs to join for a yummy meal.

After breakfast, Jack and Elizabeth decided to go on a half hour ride on two of the six horses that Charlotte had living on the farm. Jack wanted to take his Bella on one of his favorite trails which was quiet and saw very few people out if any at all. "Jack, how old were you when you started riding? You seem like you're a pro at it."

Jack chuckled, "My dad took me out with him on his horse for the first time when I was 6 months old. Mom thought he was crazy but she trusted that nothing bad was going to happen to me as long as I was in front of him in the saddle. Ever since I've been riding and have grown to love it more and more as time keeps going by. Before my dad died, it was something we always did together when I wasn't at school or doing homework or working on the farm. After he died, I didn't ride for about 6 months because it was too painful. Then after that 6 months went by, mom, Tom, and I went riding all the time. Mom would ride my dad's horse with Tom in front of her on the saddle while I rode her horse. It was our way to honor my dad and we had his horse until Captain was put down just a few years ago."

Elizabeth felt bad that her love and his mother and brother had to grieve the painful loss of Thomas Thornton. However, after hearing what Jack told her, in a way she felt like they were honoring his father while riding. "Jack, I'm so sorry about the loss of your dad and Captain. I can't imagine how difficult that must've been for you."

Jack smiled and they continued talking as they made their way back to the farm.

Around 2:00 that afternoon, the Thornton's and Thatcher's went to town for the Christmas Parade, which they all enjoyed.

After the parade, they went back to the farm to shower and get ready for dinner. Once they finished eating dinner and cleaned up, the two families did gift exchanges then played three rounds of Scrabble before calling it a night.

Jack and Elizabeth said goodnight to their families then went outside in the backfield to look at the stars. Jack laid down on his back with his arms under his head until Elizabeth got herself settled next to him on his left side.

She placed her head on his chest and her hand on his stomach then he took his left arm and wrapped it around her as they stared at the beautiful stars.

"The stars are gorgeous, Jack. I've never been able to see the stars like this in the 24 years I've been on this earth. I'm in just complete awe of this sight."

Jack chuckled, "It really is amazing just like you."

Elizabeth glanced up and Jack made eye contact with her and they both smiled.

"Jack, I love you. You're so sweet and loving. I always thought that if I ever left Charles and found someone else, I couldn't love them as much as I did with Charles but I was wrong. I love you and always will for an eternity. We have something that I didn't have with Charles and nothing can get in the way of the love we have for each other."

Jack smiled once again and continued to hold Elizabeth close to him for a while longer before going inside for the night.

December 18th

In the early afternoon, Jack, Elizabeth, and her family said goodbye to Charlotte and Tom before driving back to Beaufort.

Christmas Day

After spending a quiet day on the couch together watching Hallmark Channel Christmas Movies, Jack decided to make dinner for the two of them. There wasn't much in his fridge or cupboards but managed to make a good meal for them. Elizabeth and Jack had gifts for each other and decided to do their own gift exchange once they were done with dinner and had cleaned up.

Elizabeth gave Jack his gift first. When he opened his gift, he saw a baseball signed by the Atlanta Braves and a framed photo of them next to the baseball.

"Bella! How did you get this baseball signed by my favorite team?"

Elizabeth chuckled seeing Jack's facial expression. "My father helped with getting the team to sign it since he's very well-known and a big-time businessman. It's incredible that the team made time to sign it for you. It happened about two weeks ago and my father kept it at the house until I picked it up yesterday."

Jack couldn't believe that William did that for him. "I owe your father some huge thanks for helping with this amazing gift. I also love this photo of us. I remember it was taken the day that I asked you to be my girlfriend."

Elizabeth kissed him then Jack got up and grabbed his gift for Elizabeth. He watched her open it and pull a necklace with a sapphire birthstone with the words "To the Moon and Back" engraved right under where the birthstone was placed. Elizabeth couldn't believe how beautiful it was and Jack was the first man in her life besides her father who had given her such a wonderful and special gift that was treasured.

"Jack! This is gorgeous. I love it! I also love the Polaroid Camera. You're so sweet and I love you to the moon and back."

Jack smiled and kissed her passionately.

After their gift exchange and intimate moment, they decided to cuddle up on the couch again and watch "Cookie Cutter Christmas" on Hallmark Channel, which happened to be one of their favorites.

Elizabeth turned on the movie and went to the spot where she had been all day and cuddled up against Jack who wrapped his arms around her.

"Jack, this has been the best Christmas I've had in years. Thank you for making it so special for me. I love you."

Jack glanced at her, "I love you too, Bella. This has been the best Christmas I've had in years as well. Just being with you makes it even better and more special."

He kissed her on her temple and they watched the movie enjoying their special time together.