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.

May 9th

In the Thornton home, today happened to be a very special and significant one. It was Elizabeth's very first Mother's Day since Taylor's birth.

Jack was the first to wake up and as soon as he did, he propped up on his elbow facing Elizabeth and started gently stroking her hair while lovingly watching her sleep and quietly expressing his thoughts, "Lord, how'd Taylor and I get so lucky?! Thank you so much for giving me the sweetest, most amazing woman and wife and for giving Taylor the most wonderful mother we could ask for. You are so good and we're so grateful."

A few seconds later, Elizabeth stirred in bed then woke up smiling seeing Jack looking at her and stroking her hair. "Good morning, my love."

Jack kept his gaze as he leaned over to sweetly kiss her lips. "Good morning, darlin'. Did you sleep ok?"

Elizabeth smiled as she quickly responded. "Of course, I did. I always sleep wonderfully when you're in my arms."

Jack started gently stroking her cheek. "The same goes for me. I love having you in my arms. Such an amazing feeling."

Elizabeth gently rubbed his arm. "I couldn't agree more. It's one of the most amazing feelings in the world."

After a few seconds of silence, the loving gaze continued as Jack speaks up. "Happy first Mother's Day, sweetheart. Taylor and I love you so very much and are beyond lucky to have you in our life. You are so amazing!"

"Awe. Thank you so much! I love y'all more than I can explain. You two are my biggest blessings and I'm so lucky to have you."

Once they shared a sweet, tender kiss, Jack smiled as he made an offer. "How about I go make us some breakfast in bed before our peanut wakes up?"

Elizabeth smiled back. "Oh, Jack. You're too sweet. I'd love that. Thank you for the offer."

Jack smiled and nodded. "Of course. You do so much for both me and Taylor and I just wanted to spoil you a little and let you know how much you're loved and appreciated. I'll be back soon."

"Babe! That means the world to me. Thank you again. You're truly the most amazing man. And sounds good. I'll be right here."

A few hours later, Jack was ready for church and downstairs waiting for Elizabeth to finish getting herself and Taylor dressed. As he sat on the sofa waiting, he spent a few minutes on Instagram, especially to post a sweet Mother's Day message for Elizabeth. After that, he took the time to give his mother, Charlotte and his mother-in-law, Grace a quick call to wish them a happy Mother's Day as well and let them know he would see them in church soon.

By the time he got off the phone with Grace, Elizabeth was coming down the stairs with Taylor in her arms. As Jack heard them enter the living room, he stood up from the sofa and approached them. "Well, if it isn't my two favorite girls." He took a moment to gently stroke Elizabeth's hair. "Elizabeth. You look so beautiful, honey." He paused again to gently take one of Taylor's hands. "And you look so cute, peanut." He gently tickled Taylor's tummy then kissed her head which made her laugh. "Yes, you do."

Elizabeth gave Jack a loving smile as she held Taylor in her arms and watched the sweet moment between her husband and daughter. "Thank you, darling. You're too sweet and look pretty handsome yourself." She shortly paused to gently rub Taylor's head. "And I have to admit, our little peanut does look adorable."

Jack smiled back and nodded before speaking up. "So, are we ready to head out for church? We don't want to be late."

"Yes, we're ready, babe. Let's go."

A few hours later, church was coming to an end as Frank had finished his sermon and the congregation was led in one more song, "Blessed Be Your Name" by Tree63.

Once the song was over, Frank led his congregation in a closing prayer then made his way to the door to greet everyone as they left.

Jack and Elizabeth, with Taylor in his arms spent a few minutes talking to their family and some of their friends before going to speak to Frank.

As Jack continued holding Taylor, he shook Frank's hand. "Such a great service today, Pastor Frank. We really enjoyed your sermon."

Frank smiled graciously. "Thank you very much. I appreciate it."

Elizabeth smiled, nodded, and reached out to shake Frank's hand. "Of course." She shortly paused. "How are you doing today?"

Frank smiled. "I'm doing well. Thank you for asking. How are y'all?" He shortly paused to take one of Taylor's hands as she was looking up at him with a smile. "And how's this little one?"

Jack smiled as he responded. "So glad to hear you're doing well. We're all doing great too. Thank you. I'm actually about to go treat this amazing woman right here to lunch in honor of it being her first Mother's Day."

Elizabeth's heart melted at her husband's sweet comment. "Oh, Jack. You're too sweet, honey."

Frank watched the sweet moment between his friends and smiled before gently tapping Jack on the shoulder. "You're a good man, Jack. So glad you're all doing well. And happy Mother's Day to you, Elizabeth."

Elizabeth smiled. "Thank you, Frank."

Jack chimed in next. "Thank you, again. That means a lot." He shortly paused hearing Taylor suddenly start crying. "I wish we could stay and talk longer but we should probably head out. I think this little one is getting hungry."

"I completely understand. Hope y'all enjoy lunch and have a great rest of the day."

Elizabeth smiled and nodded. "Thank you! I'm sure we will. And we hope you do too. See you around."

"Thank you. And yes, I'll see y'all around."

The afternoon went by fast as it was now around 2 pm. The Thornton's had just arrived back home from Jack treating his wife and daughter to lunch at Panini's to celebrate Elizabeth's first Mother's Day.

After taking a moment to get settled, Jack and Elizabeth were sitting on the sofa snuggling while Taylor was on the floor in front of them playing with Scout.

Just like she had been the past fifteen minutes, Taylor grabbed one of Scout's toys and tossed it. When he went after it and brought it back to her, he began giving her kisses on her face then hands. It made her laugh which then made Jack and Elizabeth laugh as well.

The couple shared a smile as Elizabeth spoke up first. "Would you look at those two?"

Jack looked at the sweet interaction between Taylor and Scout and nodded. "Yes, it's like they are best buds already."

"I know, darling. Just listen to all of her giggles that Scout is getting from her."

"Yeah, I can't believe it myself. I'm happy that we got Scout as a puppy, so they can both grow up together."

"Oh, yes. I am too, Jack. I'm sure they will be best friends."

Once that was said, Jack and Elizabeth gave each other an understanding friendly glance before going to sit on the floor and join in on the fun with their daughter and puppy.

Elizabeth gently placed a hand on Taylor's back and smiled. "You having fun with Scout?"

Taylor tossed Scout's toy again then smiled and slowly clapped as Scout brought the toy back and gave her kisses on her face making her laugh again.

Jack and Elizabeth smiled and laughed at the sweet moment as Jack rubbed Scout's back. "Good boy, Scout." Seeing Scout wagging his tail, he continued rubbing his back and talking. "You love Taylor, don't you, buddy?" Scout barked giving Jack his answer.

A few minutes later, Scout was on his dog bed in the living room while Jack and Elizabeth spent the next 45 minutes playing a simple game of hide and go seek peekaboo and tug of war.

After that, they put Taylor down for a nap in her crib then went back downstairs to spend some one on one time together.

With the baby monitor on the coffee table nearby, they began cuddling on the sofa. Elizabeth was lying down with her head on Jack's lap as he gently stroked her hair with one hand and held her hands with the other.

"Jack, this has been such a wonderful day already. Don't you think?"

"Yes, it has." He continued his loving gaze and stroking her hair. "Happy first Mother's Day, my sweet, wonderful, beautiful Elizabeth. What would you like to do?"

Elizabeth smiled back at him and responded. "I'm not sure, I've never had a Mother's Day for me before. What do you have in mind?"

"Well, I thought I would take you for a nice romantic walk and some dancing under the stars at Waterfront park."

"Sweetheart, what are we going to do with Taylor?"

"I thought we could invite Ma over for dinner then she could stay her with our little angel for an hour, so we can celebrate your first Mother's Day in style. I love you so much, my darling, more each and every day. You are such an amazing mother to Taylor and a huge blessing to me. I thank God for both of you each and every day." He sweetly kissed her hand.

"Awe, Jack. You are the sweetest. That sounds perfect. I love you so much more, honey."

A few seconds later, they switched positions as Jack leaned against a pillow on the sofa wrapping his arms around Elizabeth's waist, she leaned back against his chest, and they held hands.

"Elizabeth. I was just thinking. Whenever we have a chance, what would be the perfect romantic getaway for just the two of us?"

Elizabeth smiled immediately thinking of the perfect place. "Well, I can't deny that anywhere we go would be amazing but what about the Bahamas? I went once with my parents and sister when I was 15 and thought it was beautiful. I'd love to go back with you sometime."

Jack and Elizabeth shared a loving smile as he quickly responded. "I would love that too, Elizabeth. The Bahamas sound amazing so if it's somewhere you'd like to go, we can definitely make it happen."

Elizabeth gazed in his eyes. "Jack. You're truly the most wonderful man and husband. Thank you! I can't wait to take a trip there with you. "She shortly paused. "What about you? Is there anywhere you think would be the perfect place for a romantic getaway?"

Jack started gently stroking her hair with one hand and continued holding her hands with the other. "Yes, there definitely is. I was thinking we could take a vacation to Fiji sometime. What do you think? I've never been but I've heard how beautiful it is."

"Oh, Jack. That sounds wonderful. I'd love to go to Fiji with you. I've heard it's beautiful as well. I can't wait to explore both places with you, sweetheart."

"I can't wait either, honey. I know it'll be amazing."

Elizabeth smiled and nodded. "Jack. I know this is a random question but who is someone in your past you would've liked me to meet?"

"It's alright, Elizabeth. I don't mind that you asked. I would definitely say my father is someone I'd loved for you to have met. Not only was he an amazing, kind, compassionate, honorable, and smart man but he also had so much love for others and kept God in the center of his life. I learned so much from him and will never forget it." He shortly paused. "One of the things that he loved was reading. It was one of his favorite things to do when he had down time. He used to read to Tom and me and he spent a lot of time teaching us to read even though my mom was a teacher. As I got older, I started reading a lot like he did and enjoyed it. I still do." He shortly paused once more. "I know he would've loved talking to you about reading. Because he read all the time, that's how he became smart. Always learning something even the most random and smallest things." He continued holding her hands with one of his and started gently stroking her hair with the other. "You're the same way, darlin'. No doubt."

"Awe, Jack. Thank you for the sweet compliment. It means the world. It's so awesome hearing how he loved to read and that he got you interested in it too. Reading is a wonderful thing. I definitely would've loved meeting him and talking to him about books." She started resting her hands on his arms that are wrapped around her shoulders. "I may not have ever met Thomas, but I know for a fact how wonderful he was because I see all the same great qualities I've been told he has in you, my love." She shortly paused. "Jack Thornton. You're truly the most amazing Godly man I'll ever know, and I honestly don't know how I got so lucky to have you."

Jack slightly teared up as he gently hugged Elizabeth a little tighter. "Oh, Elizabeth. I love you so much, baby." He kissed her temple letting his lips linger there for a moment. "You're the most amazing woman and I don't know how I got so lucky." He kissed her temple again. "And while we're on this topic, who is someone in your past you would've liked me to meet?"

She looked at him. "And I love you. More than I can explain." She kissed his cheek. "Someone I would've loved for you to meet is my grandmother, Catherine. She was an amazing, sweet woman with a love for the Lord that is truly inspiring. She taught me so much about life and the world and I'm grateful to have had her in my life. One of her passions in life was art and she even made a career out of it by becoming a high school art teacher. Because of her, I've always had an interest in it but never really took the time to pursue it. I know you two would've bonded over your love for the subject."

"She definitely sounds like an amazing woman, Elizabeth. I wish I could've met her. I know I would've enjoyed talking to her about art. And since you have an interest in it, I'd love to teach you everything I've learned."

"Awe, Jack. You'd do that for me?"

Jack softly and sweetly responded. "Of course, I would. Elizabeth. You're my girl and there's nothing I wouldn't do to make you happy and help you achieve any dream you have. And besides, it'd be something else fun for us to do together and bond over."

"I think it would be too. And you're seriously the sweetest. I feel the same. There's nothing I wouldn't do for you, my darling."

A few hours later, Jack was playing blocks with Taylor and Elizabeth had just started making dinner when Charlotte arrived.

After hearing the doorbell ring, Jack smiled as he spoke up. "Elizabeth. I think that's Ma at the door. Do you mind keeping an eye on Taylor for a moment?"

Elizabeth smiled back. "Sure, babe. No problem."

Jack turned to Taylor and smiled. "Taylor. Mimi is here. You wanna see Mimi?" Taylor smiled and clapped giving Jack her answer. "Ok." He kissed Taylor on the head. "I'll be right back, sweet girl."

Once he opened the door, he greeted his mother with a big hug. "Ma! It's so good to see you. Come on in." He closed and locked the door back after she walked inside. "How are you?"

"I'm doing good, son. Thanks for asking. How are y'all?"

Jack responded as they started walking to the living room. "We're great. Just enjoying life."

"That's so great to hear. Where's Elizabeth and Taylor?"

"Elizabeth just started a cooking dinner and Taylor is." He shortly paused as they reached the living room then pointed to his daughter sitting on the floor. "right there playing with her blocks."

Elizabeth, realizing she could step away from the kitchen for a moment, washed her hands, then greeted and hugged her mother in law. "Hi, Ma. It's great to see you. How are you?"

"I'm doing well. It's great to see you too, Lizzie." She knelt down where Taylor was sitting and smiled gently taking her hand. "And how is my favorite granddaughter?"

Taylor smiled at her Mimi.

Jack smiled and comically gave his mother a little sass. "She's your only granddaughter."

Charlotte, Jack, and Elizabeth all laughed before Charlotte spoke up. "There's that sass again. And I know but still. Come here, Taylor." She gently picked Taylor up. "Mimi wants to give you a hug." She sweetly hugged her granddaughter in her arms. "I missed you, sweet girl. You being good for mommy and daddy?" Taylor smiled at her "Good." She kissed Taylor on the head.

Jack and Elizabeth stood by watching the sweet moment as Jack spoke. "Isn't she something?"

Charlotte smiled and nodded while still holding Taylor in her arms. "Definitely. I can't believe how fast she's growing. And she's already sitting up on her own?! That's crazy but amazing at the same time."

Elizabeth happily chimed in. "We know what you mean, Ma. We can't believe it either. Pretty soon she'll be walking. We're so proud of her though, aren't we, honey?"

Jack quickly responded as he smiled at his wife then looked at his daughter. "Yes, we are, sweetheart. She has been such blessing." Jack paused noticing Taylor looking at him smiling. Jack looked back at Taylor and gently held one of her hands. "Yes, that's right. We're talking about you, Taylor. We love you, baby girl." He kissed Taylor on the cheek. "So much."

They continued talking for a few minutes before Elizabeth went back to cooking dinner and Jack and Charlotte sat on the sofa with Taylor to relax and enjoy time together.

Once they finished dinner about an hour and a half later, they remained in conversation talking about a multitude of topics.

After a short bout of silence, Charlotte and Jack shared an understanding look as she spoke up. "Lizzie, for a while now, Jack and I have been talking and he wants to buy Pepper and Apollo from me and make them your clan's first horses." The married couple looked at each other and smiled but waited to speak since they knew Charlotte had more to say. "Jack knows how much work and expensive they are, and we've been working out a payment plan so when you do get them, you know the deal."

Elizabeth interrupted her mother in law before she could continue. She turned to Jack. "Babe, when were you gonna tell me about this? We need to make sure we're financially stable and that the barn is done."

Jack smiled, "Ma is gonna get to the financial part in just a minute." He then told his mother to go on which she did.

"Jack, Lizzie. They're my gift to you. There's no need to pay me a penny and I'll keep them at my place until the barn is done and ready."

The couple were very surprised by what they were just told and laughed. "Ma, are you serious? We've been working out a payment plan and I also offered to do some work around your farm."

"Yes, son. I'm serious and I know we have. The horses are a gift from me and I know they'll be very happy here."

Jack and Elizabeth looked at each other again and kissed before he spoke. "I wanted them to be our family's first horses but also my gift to you for your first Mother's Day. I don't know how much longer it'll be before we can bring them home, though. They're a late gift but I didn't think that would be a problem. So, what do you think about making Pepper and Apollo ours?"

Elizabeth couldn't help but love her husband and how amazing he was with her. "Oh, Jack. You are definitely the sweetest. Thank you. I love you, so much."

Charlotte stayed quiet and smiled as she watched her son and daughter in law in their own little world. Watching them brought back memories of how she and Thomas were when younger. Even though it had been years since he died, Charlotte missed him every day.

After a few minutes, Jack and Elizabeth gave Charlotte their attention once again. "Charlotte, we can't thank you enough and describe how much we appreciate your gift to our family. We promise they will be loved and happy here with us. I also know my man can't wait to take our little girl for rides and expose her to ranch life."

The three of them laughed as they looked at Taylor sitting happily in her high chair and Jack spoke up. "Yea. That's right, peanut. We're talking about you. Your mama and I can't wait to take you horseback riding."

May 20

The next few weeks went by quickly as it was now May 20th and the last day of school for Elizabeth. While she and Jack were at work, Abigail stayed at their home to watch Taylor and Scout.

By the time Elizabeth finished her second lesson, she gave her students their class work assignment then took a moment to check in, first with her husband, sending him a quick text.

"Hi! Just wanted to check in. You're such a hardworking man. I appreciate you, baby."

Jack, sitting in his cruiser, heard a ding on his phone and smiled seeing who had texted him before replying. "Hi, sweetheart. Thank you for the sweet words. It means the world. I appreciate how hard you work for our family too. Hope you're having a great day! I miss you!"

"Awe, of course, Jack. My day has been good, but I definitely miss you too. My students are just working a class assignment right now. How's your day?"

"Glad yours has been good. Mine has been pretty good. Just worked on paperwork all morning for a burglary case and now I'm about to head out on patrol."

"That's great to hear you've had a great day. How did the paperwork go?"

"It went well. I'm actually almost done."

"Jack. That's wonderful. I'll keep my fingers crossed you finish it today."

"Thank you, darlin' I hope so." He sent a second text. "I really wish I could talk longer but I probably should start my late morning patrol."

"I understand. Please be careful, Jack."

"I promise I'll do my best, sweetheart. I should be home by around 8:00 tonight."

"I know you will, honey. I can't wait to see you then."

Jack smiled to himself as he responded along with a kissy face emoji. "I can't wait either, Elizabeth. Love you, endlessly, babe."

Elizabeth replied adding a kissy face emoji at the end of her text. "I love you, darling!"

After finishing her conversation with Jack, she made sure everything was good with her students before sending a quick text to Abigail.

"Hey Abigail, just wanted to check in and see how things were going."

Abigail had just walked outside to the backyard with Taylor and Scout when she saw the text come through. She smiled and quickly responded back while keeping an eye on Taylor who was playing ball with Scout. "Hi, Elizabeth. Things are going well. Taylor just woke up from her nap about 30 minutes ago. I just fed her and now we're just outside in the backyard. She's right here in front of me sitting on the grass playing ball with Scout. She's been such a good girl. And Scout's been really good too."

"Oh, that's wonderful. I'm glad things are going well. I'm sure she looks adorable playing with Scout. I wish I could be there. I miss her. And of course, you too, Abigail."

"We miss you too. And she definitely does. How's your day?"

"Mine has been good. My students are just working on class work right now but it'll be time for lunch and recess soon."

"So glad to hear your day is going well, Elizabeth." She then sent a second text remembering what she wanted to ask. "I was also wondering. Do you mind picking up Cody after school today? Frank got caught up in an important meeting and won't be able to like he originally thought."

"Of course, I can, Abigail. That's no problem at all."

"Thank you, Elizabeth. You're such a great friend."

"You are too. And Cody is a great kid. I'd be happy to pick him up. If I could talk longer I would but I probably should go. The lunch bell should be ringing in a few minutes. We'll see y'all in a few hours though."

"I understand, Elizabeth. Have a great rest of day."

"Thank you! Hope you have a great rest of the day too. Give Taylor a hug and kiss from me."

"I will. See you in a few hours."

"Yes. See you later."

Once Abigail finished talking to Elizabeth, she turned her full attention back to Taylor and Scout. She couldn't stop smiling at the fun Jack and Elizabeth's daughter was having while playing ball with their puppy the last 30 minutes.

Ten minutes later, Abigail thought it would be a good idea to go back inside since the temperature outside was rising and she didn't want Taylor or Scout to get overheated. "Taylor. You ready to go inside, sweet girl? It's hot out here and Auntie Abigail doesn't want you getting overheated." Taylor just looked back at Abigail and smiled before continuing. "Ok, Taylor. Let's go." She gently picked Taylor up then turned her attention to Scout. "You too, Scout. C'mon, boy."

After they were all back inside, Scout went to relax in his dog bed in the living room while Abigail sat on the floor with Taylor and spent about 15 minutes playing blocks with her.

The next few minutes went by quickly as Abigail was still sitting on the floor with Taylor but now watching her play with her Laugh & Learn Puppy Piano.

As she noticed how much fun Taylor was having, Abigail looked at her and smiled. "You having fun playing with your puppy piano?" She paused as Taylor smiled, cooed, and kept playing. "Yea. That's a beautiful song, Taylor. Keep playing."

Even though she didn't fully understand what Abigail was saying, Taylor kept playing while smiling, laughing, and cooing at the same time.

Abigail just couldn't help but smile as she kept watching Taylor play with the piano. "You're so talented, Taylor." She gently tickled Taylor's arm. "Yes, you are."

Twenty more minutes later, Taylor had finished playing with her puppy piano as Abigail gently picked her up then sat down on the sofa. While sitting on the sofa, Abigail smiled at Taylor as she helped her stand upright and bounce up and down on her legs.

As Abigail helped Taylor bounce up and down on her legs, she smiled and sang the following nursery rhyme. "Ride the horsey into town, ride the horsey don't fall down."

Every time Abigail repeated the nursery rhyme, Taylor would laugh and giggle hysterically which caused her to smile and laugh as well. "You're so cute, sweet girl. I love hearing that laugh. Yes, I do."

This went on for five more minutes as Abigail continued smiling and said what was on her mind. "Come here my little princess." She started holding Taylor in her arms. "You are growing so fast. You mommy and daddy love you so very much and so does your Auntie Abigail! Yes, we do. "She kissed Taylor on the head. "Your mommy and daddy are the best you could have for parents. Yes, they are!" Abigail started making cooing and babbling sounds that a little one would make then placed kisses on Taylor's neck which made her giggle.

As Abigail continued holding Taylor in her arms, she smiled asking a question. "So. What would you like to do next, sweet girl? You want Auntie Abigail to sing another song?" Taylor just kept smiling. "Ok. I'll sing another song." After going over a number of nursery rhymes in her head, Abigail came up with the perfect one.

"Twinkle, twinkle little star,

How I wonder what you are.

Up above the world so high,

Like a diamond in the sky.

Twinkle, twinkle little star,

How I wonder what you are."

Once she finished singing, Abigail gently kissed Taylor on the head then smiled. Noticing how happy Taylor was, she spoke up. "You wanna hear another one." She shortly paused. "Ok. I'll sing another one."

After singing a few more nursery rhymes, Taylor suddenly started crying which Abigail hated to see. "Awe. Taylor. What's wrong, sweet girl? You hungry?" Taylor kept crying as Abigail noticed a few seconds later what's making her cry. "Oh. I think I know. You need a diaper change, don't you? Well, we can fix that right now. Let's go, Taylor."

With that, Abigail made her way to the nursery with Taylor in her arms, got the necessary items, then gently laid her on the changing table. As she was changing her diaper, she spoke up. "Oh, my little darling, we need to freshen you up. A pretty princess should never smell like that, poooy!" She started putting a new diaper on Taylor. "How can somebody so sweet smell that bad, I will never know." With that, Taylor was all fresh. Before Abigail finished redressing her, she blew some raspberries on her tummy that made her giggle and laugh. "There you go, sweet girl. All clean. Auntie Abigail loves you." She kissed Taylor's nose. "Yes, I do." After redressing Taylor, she played pat-a-cake with her which made her laugh even more. Seeing Taylor's facial expressions, Abigail smiled. "You sure are one happy doll! How your mommy and daddy got so lucky I will never know."

Later that afternoon, school was over for the day and Elizabeth and Cody had just walked in the house.

As they walked in the living room, Elizabeth was the first to speak up while giving her friend a hug. "Hi, Abigail."

Cody smiled, chimed in, and gave Abigail a hug. "Hi, mom."

"Hi, Elizabeth. Hi, Cody. Did y'all have a good day?"

Cody responded first. "Yes, ma'am."

Elizabeth happily responded next. "I definitely did." She paused to give Taylor a kiss on the head then looked at her lovingly while gently taking her hand. "Hi, sweet girl. Did you have fun with Auntie Abigail?"

Taylor just looked at her mother and smiled before Abigail responds. "We definitely had lots of fun. She was a perfect little angel."

Elizabeth smiled. "Awe, I'm so glad to hear that." She shortly paused to see Scout approaching them before she knelt down to pet him. "Hey, Scout. Did you have a good day, buddy?" Scout just happily wagged his tail and stuck out his tongue slightly giving an answer.

Cody followed Elizabeth's lead and knelt down to pet Scout. "Hey, Scout. Hey, boy."

Elizabeth smiled at the cute interaction and spoke up as Scout kept happily wagging his tail. "You like Cody, don't you, buddy?" Scout happily barked letting everyone know his feelings.

Cody kept gently petting Scout. "I like you too, Scout. You're such a good puppy."

There was a short bout of silence before Elizabeth came up with an idea. "Abigail. Would you and Cody like to stay for dinner?"

Cody loved the idea and excitedly responded. "Oh, mom. Can we please stay?"

Abigail looked back at her son and tried to be firm in her response. "I'm not sure. Don't you have homework, young man?"

"Yes, ma'am but I could work on it here. Pretty please, mom."

"Alright." Abigail shortly paused. "But as long as it's no imposition on Elizabeth."

Elizabeth smiled quickly chiming in. "It's no imposition at all. Taylor and I would love for you to stay. I'm sure Jack would say the same if he were off work." She shortly paused. "And if Cody needs any help with homework, I'd be happy to do so."

Abigail smiled at Elizabeth's kindness. "Ok. We'll stay. Thank you, Elizabeth."

"Of course, Abigail. We're happy to have you join us."

A few hours later, Cody had finished playing with Taylor and Scout and was now working on his math homework. While Abigail helped Elizabeth with dinner, Taylor was taking a nap, and Scout was relaxing in his dog bed.

As Cody was coming close to finishing his homework, he soon came across a few problems he was having trouble with which didn't go unnoticed by both Elizabeth and Abigail.

The two women shared an understanding look before Elizabeth spoke up. "Is everything ok, Cody?"

Cody shook his head and politely responded. "Everything is ok. I'm just stuck on these last few math problems. Do you think you could help me try to figure them out, Mrs. Thornton?"

Elizabeth briefly looked at Abigail to make sure she wouldn't be overstepping, which she definitely wasn't. Abigail then smiled and nodded of approval as Elizabeth answered Cody's question. "Of course, I can. I'd love to help you." Elizabeth sat down on the sofa next to him. "So, what kind of problems are we looking at?"

Cody responded as he showed her the problems on the page. "Simplifying fractions."

As Elizabeth looked over the problems, she smiled. "Alright. This should be easy." She shortly paused. "So, the first one. 6 over 57." She shortly paused again. "What are the factors for both the numerator and denominator?" She smiled at Cody and kindly continued. "Can you write them down for me?"

Cody took a moment to write down the factors of the numerator and denominator.

Seeing Cody had written down the two correct numbers, she spoke up. "Ok. Good. Now, between the two numbers, 1 and 3, what is the greatest common factor between 6 and 57? Remember, the greatest common factor is the largest number that will divide both the numerator and denominator equally."

After taking a second to process what Elizabeth had told him, he came up with an answer. "Three."

Elizabeth smiled and quickly acknowledged what Cody said. "Yes, that's right. Now, if you divide the numerator, 6 and the denominator, 57, you'll have your simplified fraction." She gave him a moment to write down his answer before continuing. "So, what did you come up with?"

Cody smiled and responded as he showed Elizabeth the answer he came up with. "2 over 19?"

Elizabeth smiled and excitedly replied. "Yes. That's it. Great job, Cody." She shortly paused. "Would you like me to help you with the rest of them?"

Cody looked at Elizabeth and smiled. "Yes, please. Thank you, Mrs. Thornton."

"Of course, Cody. It's no problem at all. I'm happy to help."

With that, Elizabeth continued helping Cody with his math problems and by the time his homework was finished 20 minutes later, dinner was ready, and Taylor was waking up from her nap.

The evening went by quickly as it was now around 7:45. They had finished dinner, cleaned the kitchen, and were currently relaxing in the living room.

While Elizabeth and Abigail were sitting on the sofa talking, Cody was sitting on the floor playing with Taylor and Scout.

Before they knew it, they could hear Jack coming in the door and Scout ran to the door to greet him.

Once Jack put away all unnecessary items from work in the safe, he smiled as he knelt down to pet Scout. "Hey, Scout. Hey. Have you been a good boy today?" Scout wagged his tail and happily barked giving Jack his answer. Jack then stood up and urged Scout to follow him to the living room. "C'mon, boy."

A few seconds later, they reached the living room as Scout went to sit in his dog bed and Jack greeted his family and friends starting with Elizabeth.

He gently wrapped his arms around her from behind the sofa and kissed her temple. "Hey, beautiful. Did you have a good day?" He kissed her other temple. "I missed you."

Elizabeth's heart melted at Jack's display of affection. "Hey, handsome. It was good but better now that you're here. I missed you."

Jack smiled then stood up straight placing a hand briefly and gently on Abigail's shoulder. "Hi, Abigail. How was your day?"

"Hi, Jack. It was wonderful. I had so much fun hanging out with Taylor and Scout today. They were both on their best behavior."

"That's so good to hear. Thank you for looking after them."

Abigail smiled and quickly responded to Jack. "Of course. I was happy to."

Jack then walked around from behind the sofa, knelt down to Taylor's level, kissed her on the head, and gently took her hand. "Hey, peanut. Daddy missed you. Did you have a fun day with Auntie Abigail?" Taylor smiled and made a cooing noise giving Jack an answer before he continued. "That's good."

After greeting Taylor, he offered a high five to Cody. "Hey, Cody. How are you?"

Cody smiled and responded. "Hi, Sergeant Thornton. I'm good. How are you?"

"I'm doing well especially now that I'm back home with my family and friends too. Did you have a good day at school?"

"Yes, sir. We're glad to see you too."

Jack smiled and gently patted Cody on the shoulder. "Thank you, buddy. And glad you had a good day at school."

Once that was said, Jack sat down next to Elizabeth on the sofa wrapping an arm around her as they continued chatting with Abigail and Cody started to play with Taylor and Scout again.

This went on for about 30 minutes before Abigail decided it was time for her and Cody to say their goodbyes then head home for the night.

As soon as Abigail and Cody left, Jack and Elizabeth spent 30 minutes playing with Taylor then went upstairs to give her a bath.

After Elizabeth made sure the water in the baby bath tub was the right temperature, Jack held Taylor in his arms and looked at her lovingly. "Ok, Taylor. You ready to get really wet, baby girl? You too, Elizabeth. Do we have plenty of towels handy? You already know we'll need several."

Elizabeth smiled back, chuckled, and responded as she was helping Jack finish getting Taylor ready for her bath. "Oh yea. We do. I've been keeping an extra stash of towels in here till we can get a handle on all the splashing."

Jack quickly smiled and responded. "Alright then. Let's put her in."

Once Jack put Taylor into the tub, the water started occasionally flying all over as he and Elizabeth worked together to gently wash their daughter's hair and body while singing some fun nursery rhymes.

Evidently, Taylor loved her bath time and was now smiling and laughing as she continuously splashed water out of the tub and all over her mommy and daddy.

With Jack and Elizabeth soaking wet, they shared a smile and laugh before Jack spoke up. "Geez, Elizabeth. I didn't know a wet t-shirt contest was on for tonight's activities."

Elizabeth smiled back. "Oh, Jack." She flirtatiously whispered in his ear. "I think you look pretty sexy."

Jack whispered back in her ear flirtatiously. "I'll show you just how sexy later tonight."

"I'm gonna hold you to it, darling."

Just as they were about to kiss, Taylor smiled and cut loose with a hearty splash that drenched both of them.

They then all ended up laughing as Elizabeth looked at Taylor lovingly. "Taylor Hope Thornton! You think that's funny don't you, sweet girl?"

Taylor smiled and laughed as she looked up at her mommy and daddy.

Jack then gently tickled Taylor's tummy and looked at her. "You're so cute, baby girl. Yes, you are."

When bath time was over, they got Taylor ready for bed then headed to her nursery.

While there, Elizabeth spent about 20 minutes nursing Taylor before giving her to Jack.

As Jack sat in one of the chairs holding Taylor in his arms and looking at her, he sang a song to help her go to sleep which only took five minutes.

After gently laying Taylor in her crib, he leaned over to kiss her on the head. "Sweet dreams, baby girl. Daddy loves you."

Elizabeth was next as she leaned over to kiss Taylor on the cheek. "Goodnight, Taylor. Mommy loves you, sweet girl."

With that, Jack and Elizabeth turned all the unnecessary lights off in the nursery, changed into their pajamas, then headed back downstairs.

Elizabeth offered to heat up leftovers for him since he missed dinner which he thoroughly enjoyed. Once he finished eating, they went to snuggle on the sofa together.

They had already been talking for fifteen minutes when there was a short bout of silence between them.

Jack looked at her and smiled. "So, what would you like to do next? We could watch a movie."

"I love that idea, Jack." Elizabeth shortly paused. "There's a few I'm already thinking of. We have 13 Going On 30, Sweet Home Alabama, The Proposal, Dirty Dancing, and Footloose. What do you think?"

"Those are all great choices, so you pick, darlin'." Jack smiled at his girl showing his dimples. "As long as I get to snuggle with you, I'll be happy."

Elizabeth smiled back as her heart melted at her husband's sweet comment. "Oh, Jack. You're so cute, babe. I feel the same." She kissed his cheek. "What about 'The Proposal'?"

Jack smiled again and nodded. "The Proposal it is."

June 4

When Jack and Elizabeth woke up, they were wrapped in each other's arms. While she rested her head on his bare chest, he wrapped his right arm around her and held her right hand with his left that she was resting on his torso.

"Good morning, handsome."

"Good morning, beautiful." He kissed her head. "How'd you sleep?"

"I slept wonderfully, especially with you in my arms. What about you?"

"The same goes for me. I love having you in my arms."

"Oh, honey. You're so sweet! I can't imagine being anywhere else." She shortly paused. "Can't we just stay here all day and snuggle?"

Jack gently rubbed her fingers with his thumb. "I wish we could, babe." He shortly paused. "But I do have to go to work."

"I know. Taylor, Scout, and I will miss you though. How long is your shift this morning?"

"I'll miss you all too. And my shift is from 9 am to 1 pm." He shortly paused. "When I get home though, I promise we'll have some quality family time."

"I can't wait, Jack. Nothing like quality time with my two favorite people."

"I can't wait, either. Quality time with my two favorite girls is always special." He shortly paused. "You know what I just realized?"

"What's that, babe?"

Jack continued holding her hand resting on his torso and rubbing her fingers with his thumb. "Today is exactly 4 years since we first met."

Elizabeth smiled remembering the moment she met her husband despite what she had just been through. "That's right. I can't believe it's been that long already. Wow, how time flies."

"I know! It's so crazy." He shortly paused. "I'm so grateful though."

"I'm so grateful too." Elizabeth briefly leaned her head back slightly to sweetly kiss Jack's cheek. "Ever since that day, you've made me so happy and I truly cannot imagine my life without you, honey." She kissed his neck. "I love you so much."

"Oh, darlin'. You've made me happier than I ever thought possible and I can't imagine my life without you. I love you more than I can explain." He shortly paused as he sat up then gently pulled Elizabeth on his lap to face him while resting his hands on her hips over his T-shirt she was wearing. "Come here, my sweet Elizabeth. I really wanna look in those beautiful blue eyes and kiss you."

Elizabeth started gazing at her husband and gently running her fingers through his hair. "Oh, Jack. You're so adorable. I wanna look in those hazel eyes of yours and kiss you." She started placing her hands on his bare chest. "How about a little morning make-out before we start getting ready for the day?"

Jack's face lit up as he kept his loving gaze and gently ran his hands up and down her sides. "I'd love that. Let's do it, baby."

Elizabeth smiled back and started gently rubbing his chest. "I'd love it too. Let's definitely do it, sweetheart."

With that, they spent fifteen minutes wrapped in each other's love before deciding it was time to get ready for the day.

As Elizabeth was putting Jack's shirt and her yoga pants back on, he sat on the edge of the bed gazing lovingly at her.

Once she finished, she caught his gaze. "It melts my heart but what's that look for, darling?"

Jack gently took Elizabeth's left hand, pulled her closer to him between his legs, rested his hands on her hips, and looked up at her. "You look so cute and sexy in my shirt, I just can't keep my eyes off you, honey."

Elizabeth smiled back and chuckled at Jack's cute comment while resting her hands on his shoulders. "Jack, you're too sweet. I love wearing your shirt." She sweetly placed her hands on his chest while keeping her gaze. "And you look pretty dang cute with that bare chest look. I can't keep my eyes off you." She shortly paused. "Ughh. I'm gonna miss you so much today."

"I'm gonna miss you more, baby."

She started gently rubbing his shoulders. "Please promise me you'll be safe out there and come home to us."

Jack looked deeply in her eyes while still resting his hands on her hips. "I promise I'll do my best. You know I want nothing more than to come home to my two favorite girls every day."

"Yes, I do. And I know you'll do your best." Elizabeth looked back deeply into his eyes. "I just don't want to think about living without you, sweetheart."

He still kept his gaze while gently rubbing her hips. "I know, darlin'. I don't want to think about that either." He shortly paused. "I promise I'll check in throughout the shift when I can though."

"I know you will, Jack. I can't wait." She leaned over to sweetly and tenderly kiss his lips while resting her hands on his shoulders. "I love you like crazy, baby."

Jack gently pulled Elizabeth down to sit on his lap wrapping his arms around her waist, gently pulled her even closer to him, then started running his fingers through her hair while giving her a tender, passionate kiss. "I love you. So dang much, honey."

An hour later, they had just finished breakfast as a family of three as Jack was dressed in his uniform and about to head out for his shift.

The small family stood in the mud room with Elizabeth held Taylor in her arms and they all said their goodbyes and I love you's.

Once they did, Jack kissed his girls, knelt down to pet Scout, then made his way out the door to head to the station.

While Jack was working at the station, Elizabeth and Taylor were having a mother daughter day at home.

After spending a little while playing with Scout, he went to go relax in his dog bed while Elizabeth and Taylor sat on the floor and played with her blocks.

Elizabeth looked at Taylor while getting the blocks together. "Let's see our big girl build today." When Elizabeth started to build a tower of blocks, Taylor soon knocked the blocks down making a lot of noise and giggling like crazy. She smiled and laughed then spoke up again. "Look at what you did big girl! More?" Elizabeth then built another tower and only got half the height she built before Taylor knocked it down and started giggling again which made her laugh. She smiled at her daughter and gently took one of her hands. "You're so cute, baby girl." She gently tickled Taylor's tummy making her smile and giggle. "Yes, you are." She sweetly kissed Taylor's head. "Mama loves you." Taylor looked at her mother smiling as Elizabeth continued. "Yes, I do." She shortly paused. "You wanna build the blocks again?" She paused again seeing Taylor smile and clap her hands. "Ok. Let's do it, sweet girl."

This continued for 15 more minutes before the blocks were cleaned up and Elizabeth sat on the sofa with Taylor in her arms to read "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" by Eric Carle to her.

Once Elizabeth finished reading to her daughter, she noticed a smile and spoke up. "Did you like that story, Taylor?" Taylor continued smiling and clapped giving an answer. Elizabeth looked at Taylor then continued. "Yea. I did too." She shortly paused noticing Taylor looking around the room. "You wanna take a walk, sweet girl?" Taylor smiled again before Elizabeth continued. "Ok, let's take a walk."

With that, Elizabeth spent twenty minutes walking around the house with Taylor in her arms showing her and telling her about different things before deciding it was time for lunch.

While Elizabeth made lunch, Taylor sat in the kitchen nearby playing with her 3 - stage interactive activity center and bouncing up and down happily.

After lunch and once Elizabeth nursed Taylor, it was time for her nap. As Elizabeth walked around the living room, she held Taylor in her arms and started singing and swaying as she sang.

Hush little baby don't say a word, Daddy's gonna buy you a mocking bird.

If that mockingbird don't sing Daddy's gonna buy you a diamond ring.

If that diamond ring turns brass, Daddy's gonna buy you a looking glass.

If that looking glass gets broke, Daddy's gonna buy you cart and bull. If that cart and bull turns over, Daddy's gonna buy you a dog named rover

By the time, Elizabeth finished singing, she noticed Taylor was asleep then gently laid her down in her bassinet near the sofa before leaning over to give her a kiss on the head. "Have a good nap, sweet girl. Mama loves you."

As soon as Elizabeth put Taylor down, she sat down on the sofa and turned the TV on to Hallmark Channel to find "Pearl in Paradise" playing which she always enjoyed watching.

Thirty minutes into the movie, Elizabeth's phone started ringing. Hearing the song "God Gave Me You" playing and seeing Jack's picture pop up on the screen, she smiled.

"Hey, honey."

Jack, sitting in his cruiser smiled hearing Elizabeth's voice on the other end. "Hey, babe. How's your day going?"

"It's good. Taylor and I played blocks and with Scout earlier, then we took a walk around the house and had lunch. Now Taylor and Scout are taking a nap while I'm just relaxing on the sofa watching Hallmark. We miss you."

"I miss my girls and Scout too. And that sounds like fun. Glad y'all have had a good day. What movie is on?"

"Pear in Paradise. Wish you could be here snuggling with me."

Jack quickly responded in a longing tone. "Awe, man. That's a good one. I wish I could be there snuggling with you."

"Yes, it is. One of my favorites." She shortly paused. "Anyway. How is your day going?"

"It's good. I just finished up some paperwork for an abduction case we've been working on for a few hours and now I'm about to head out on patrol."

"That's good to hear you've had a good day too and that you finished the paperwork you had to do. Please be safe out there in patrol."

"I promise I'll do my best, love. Once my patrol is finished, I should be off for the day and heading home."

"I know you will. And that sounds good. I can't wait to see you!"

"I can't wait to see you!" He shortly paused. "Well, I wish I could talk longer but I probably should go so I can start patrol. I'll call you when I'm on the way."

"I understand. And please do."

"I will." He shortly paused. "I love you, angel."

She smiled at Jack's sweet term of endearment. "I love you more, sweetheart."

An hour later and a half later, Jack was walking in the door from his shift. After locking away all unnecessary items in the safe, he made his way to the living room to see his girls.

Elizabeth was on the sofa in the living room holding Taylor and watching the end of "Pearl in Paradise" when she heard Jack enter the living room. She smiled as he walked over to them and sat down. Before doing anything else, he kissed Elizabeth then kissed Taylor's head.

Elizabeth smiled. "How was your day? We missed you."

Jack was glad to be home. "I missed my two favorite girls too. My day was very busy but good. I have something I want to talk to you about but first, please give me Taylor."

Elizabeth handed the 8-month-old girl to Jack who smiled at him as soon as he smiled at her. "Hey, baby girl. I missed you today just like your mommy. How are you?" Taylor continued smiling then laughed which made Jack and Elizabeth laugh too.

"She's been great today. Lots of smiles and laughs when awake. We're both glad you're home. So, what did you want to talk to me about?"

"You know how I check on inmates and their statuses at times?" Taylor looked at Jack again and smiled while he and Elizabeth continued talking.

Elizabeth had an idea that he was giving her an update on Charles. "Jack, please tell me Charles hasn't gotten out. He hasn't served his full sentence yet. The judge gave him 20 years."

What Jack was about to tell her was something she didn't expect. He gently grabbed her hand and continued. "I hadn't checked Charles's status since he went to prison and I was curious to know where he was. I found out he died not long after the trial. He got into a fight with his cell mate and quickly bled out from a stab wound to the heart. Elizabeth, we don't have to worry about him anymore. We're safe and he's never gonna hurt anyone else ever again."

Elizabeth sighed deeply while tearing up as she felt relieved. "I don't know what to say except I'm relieved."

"I know how you feel, Elizabeth. I'm relieved too." He shortly paused. "When I found out at work today, I immediately thought back to the call 4 years ago." He paused again becoming teary eyed. "I'll never understand why some men think it's ok to beat and abuse their girlfriends or wives." He continued stroking her hair while looking lovingly in her eyes and still tearing up. "You are the sweetest, most beautiful soul and." He shortly paused once more. "It still breaks my heart and makes me so angry thinking about what Charles did to you. No woman, especially you deserves to be treated like that. It's just not acceptable."

Seeing Jack cry made her cry as well. While still holding Taylor, she gently wiped Jack's tears away then took one of his hands and looked lovingly at him. "Oh, Jack. I'll never understand it either. I can't deny that what Charles did still makes me angry but you know what?" She shortly paused. "I refuse to think about him anymore because I am happy right where I am right now." She briefly and lovingly smiled at Taylor while gently rubbing her head. "I have an amazing daughter." She looked at Jack with love and started stroking Jack's hair with her free hand. "And I have an amazing, wonderful, handsome husband who makes me smile, laugh, and feel more loved than I ever thought was possible." She shortly paused the conversation with Jack seeing Taylor looking around the room and at her toys and noticing her squirming. She smiled at Taylor then asked her a question. "You wanna play with toys, sweet girl?" Taylor smiled at Elizabeth giving an answer before she continued. "Alright. You can play." She gently kissed Taylor's cheek while Jack gently took one of Taylor's hands and continued talking. "Mama and daddy love you, Taylor." She gently set Taylor on the floor in front of them, so she could play with her blocks then went back to her conversation with Jack looking at him. "Sorry about that, darling. You know how our little peanut is when she wants to play."

Jack smiled and chuckled. "Yea, I do. It's alright though." He gently took her left hand with his right and started stroking her hair with his left. "So, you were saying?"

Elizabeth's heart melted at how cute Jack was. "I was just saying that I have such an amazing, wonderful, handsome husband who makes me smile, laugh, and feel more loved than I ever thought was possible." She started stroking his hair again with her free hand not held by Jack and looked deep into his eyes. "Jack Thornton, you are just the sweetest man in the world and I honestly don't know how I got so lucky to have you." She started tearing up thinking about how lucky she was. "Thank you for saving me. Thank you for always being so protective and making sure I feel safe. And thank you for loving me like you do. You truly make me feel so special and like the luckiest girl in the world." She continued as happy tears rolled down her face. "I just love you so much and am so very grateful that you're in my life."

Jack gently wiped Elizabeth's tears away and cradled her face in his hands while gazing in her eyes. "Of course." He shortly paused still gently holding her face in his hands and looking at her. "There is absolutely nothing I wouldn't do to make you feel safe, protected, cherished, and loved. You're my whole world and so very special to me, I'm so grateful to have you in my life. You're the sweetest, most amazing woman and I love you more than I'll ever be able to explain, babe." He shortly paused. "I am just so relieved that we don't have to worry about or deal with Charles ever again. He was the most horrible man."

"Yea, he definitely was. And I'm relieved too. "Elizabeth shortly paused. "But you know what?" She shortly paused smiling at Jack. "Let's not think or talk about him. Let's just focus on us and the wonderful life we get to share." She smiled again, only this time a little more flirtatious. "In fact, we don't need to talk."

"I'm good with that. And no, we don't."

With that, they leaned in giving each other a passionate kiss on the lips that lasted almost five minutes.

"Oh, Elizabeth. You know I love kissing you, but I think we need to stop there for now while our little peanut is in the room before it goes any further." He shortly paused gently rubbing her leg and looking in her eyes. "But I promise I'll make it up to you later tonight."

Elizabeth smiled back at her husband. "Oh, Jack. I know you do. I love kissing you, but I agree about stopping there for now." She started gently rubbing his leg while continuing with her gaze. "I can't wait for you to make it up to me later. I know it'll be amazing."

"Yea, it will, honey." He shortly paused as they both look at Taylor briefly. "How about we spend a little time with that sweet daughter of ours?"

"I'd love that. Let's do it."

Once that was said, Jack and Elizabeth went to sit on the floor with their daughter and spend time with her. They spent 15 minutes playing ball with her and Scout then spent another hour 30 minutes playing blocks and peekaboo and listening to some music.

As Jack and Elizabeth played music, sung, and danced around the room, they took turns holding Taylor, occasionally wrapped their arms around each other, shared loving glances, and smiled at their daughter.

At one point while the Disney song, "The Bare Necessities" was playing, Jack and Elizabeth looked down at Taylor in his arms noticing how happy she was then shared a glance. He gently took one of Taylor's hands and spoke up. "You like that song, baby girl?"

Taylor smiled as Elizabeth looked back at her and chimed in. "Yea. We do too, peanut." She gently took one of Taylor's hands. "You're such a sweet girl, Taylor." She shortly paused giving her an Eskimo kiss. "Yes, you are."

The rest of the afternoon and evening went by quickly as it was now around 8 pm. Jack and Elizabeth had spent the first few hours after he got off work with Taylor before putting her down for a nap then spending time together as a couple then making dinner.

After dinner and once Taylor was fed, they gave her a bath and dressed her for bed. As they were sitting on the floor next to each other in the nursery playing with Taylor, she was rolling and crawling all over alternating between climbing on Jack's lap and climbing on Elizabeth's lap. While doing this, she smiled and made many cooing noises trying so hard to talk to her mama and daddy.

Elizabeth looked at Taylor then Jack and smiled with Taylor in currently climbing on her lap. "Jack, did you ever think in your wildest dreams that we would be having so much fun with such a sweet baby?"

Jack smiled back and responded. "I think when it's your own baby all things they do at this age are fun. Just look at how many things she has learned so far. Rolling from her tummy to back and back to tummy, sitting by herself, crawling, and trailing along the furniture. I just wish we could slow her down, she's growing and changing so fast."

Elizabeth shared an understanding smile with Jack. "I know, my darling, husband. We will be planning her first birthday party before you know it." She looked down at Taylor who had climbed onto Jack's lap again and noticed her smile. "Yea. That's right. We're talking about you, baby girl. You're growing up so fast."

Jack noticed Taylor still smiling then looked at her. "Yes, you are." He shortly paused seeing Taylor yawning before picking her up, holding her in his arms, then gently rubbing her head. "Alright, sweet girl. I think it's time for bed. You want daddy to sing you a song?" Taylor just looked up at Jack with a soft smile. "Ok. I'll sing you a song."

By the time Jack had finished singing "My Wish" by Rascal Flatts, Taylor was asleep. He sweetly kissed her on the nose then spoke up. "Sweet dreams, baby girl. Daddy loves you so much."

Elizabeth was next. She gently took one of Taylor's hands, rubbed her head with the other hand, then leaned over to kiss her cheek. "Goodnight and sweet dreams, sweet girl. Mama loves you very much."

With that said, Jack gently lied Taylor down in her crib then turned all the lights except for the night light off before he and Elizabeth left the room and made their way right down the hall to their room with the baby monitor in hand.

Once they reached their room, Elizabeth set the baby monitor in her hand down on the dresser then smiled flirtatiously at Jack while untucking then starting to unbutton his uniform shirt. "I was just thinking." She continued her gaze while unbuttoning the rest of the buttons. "You look so sexy in this uniform but." She slipped his shirt off him letting it fall to the ground then rested her hands on his sides. "I'm ready for you to make it up to me, honey."

Jack smiled back lovingly and flirtatiously at Elizabeth while resting his hands on her sides inside his shirt she's wearing. "You look so sexy in my shirt, darlin' but I'm definitely ready to make it up to you." He shortly paused. "I wanna spend some time showing my girl how much I love and adore her."

Elizabeth smiled as her heart melted at Jack's sweet comment. "Oh, Jack. You're so cute and I wanna do the same with you, my sweet, man." She gazed lovingly in his eyes and continued resting her hands on his sides. "Kiss me, baby. I want your lips on mine."

Jack continued his gaze and rested his hands on her sides. "Gladly, my love. I want the same thing."

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