Author's Note: Most of my story is pretty sweet and definitely rated G. The next couple of chapters have some violence and intense scenes, and I would say rate closer to PG. If you have any children reading this story, please read it first to make sure it is acceptable for them.

Chapter 8—Hold on, Fiona

Lucas and Elizabeth stood there in each other's arms for a few moments, neither one wanting to release the other. Lucas finally spoke, "Since I am already holding you in my arms, shall we…dance?"

Elizabeth's smile was bright as she stepped back and answered, "I would love to dance with you, Mr. Bouchard."

They smiled at each other as they danced, both suddenly feeling a little shy at their newfound love. When the song ended, Lucas gently kissed Elizabeth on the lips. Then he said, "I'm guessing our food is cold by now."

Elizabeth giggled and shook her head, "Perhaps we should see if it is still good. I am a little hungry."

"Oh, by the way. John isn't moving to Montana after all," Lucas said as he once again helped her with her chair and sat down himself.

"No? Why did he change his mind?"

"Because he is buying land just north of here to start his ranch. I'm glad he will be close."

"Lucas, I am so happy that you will have family nearby. I can't wait to get to know him."

They talked as they ate the lukewarm food. Of Little Jack, Allie's accident.

"I spoke to Nathan yesterday," Elizabeth said. "I told him I had feelings for you."

Lucas listened as she spoke. "So, Nathan knew before I did," he said with a laugh then grew serious. "How did he take it?"

"Better than I expected. At least now he knows I am only interested in being friends with him."

"I'm glad you told him. It might be awkward for him to see us together if he didn't know beforehand."

Elizabeth smiled. "I love the sound of that. Us being together."

Lucas grinned back, his dimples showing, "I have dreamed about it for a long time now. It seems so…surreal. Dreams don't always come true."

"I'm glad this one did," Elizabeth said blissfully.

"Me too…my love," Lucas replied.

###

Fiona paced in her room, unable to rest. She had thought this through over and over again and could come up with no other solution that would prevent Savage from hurting the people she cared about.

Only meeting with him.

Fiona didn't fear much; the Savage brothers were the exception. Nelson was no longer a problem, but his death had caused a hatred to grow in Anthony. Fiona thought back over her life in San Francisco.

From the time she was a young child Fiona had known how influential the Savages were. Charles Savage was a formidable businessman in San Francisco with powerful connections. His wife had died when the boys were young and he never remarried. His business was his world, and his sons were allowed to do whatever they wanted. Even when they were young, they were immoral and malicious- almost like they didn't have a conscience. She had seen them torture animals and laugh while doing it when they were all just kids. They were also the biggest bullies in town.

Nelson had always wanted Fiona for himself. They were the same age, Anthony a year younger. Before Johnny had moved, he was her guardian. Once he moved away, Fiona found ways of avoiding Nelson, and making sure she was never alone. She only had sisters older than her, her brothers were much younger, so they weren't able to protect her. Her father was in ill health back then, so she tried to shield him from the turmoil she dealt with.

Tears filled her eyes as she recalled why she decided to leave home. She had a great job with the telephone company already. What happened still affected her so much she couldn't allow herself to think about it.

Fiona looked at the time. It was almost 10. Only an hour to go until she had to meet him.

She walked over to the desk and looked at the letter from her mother once again. She smoothed out the wrinkles as much as possible, and left it laying there, hoping perhaps that someone that could help her would find it. And yet, concerned Savage might hurt them if they did.

###

"I delivered the note, just like you asked. She had no idea it was me."

"Good. It's almost time," Savage said with a smirk.

"She's a looker. It's almost a shame what you have planned for her."

"Nelson thought so too. And we know where that got him. Let's keep our heads. I'll have my revenge very soon."

###

Nathan was turning in for the night. He had thought about trying to get back to Hope Valley tonight, but decided to get some sleep and head out early in the morning, he was only a couple of hours from home. Nathan had done a lot of thinking since he left town. About what Elizabeth had told him. The things Bill said. The truth is, when he was away from Hope Valley, as he was quite often, he didn't spend a lot of time thinking about Elizabeth. He was surprised to realize that when he stopped to think about her that he didn't miss her. Perhaps Bill was right. Not that it really mattered, as she had chosen Lucas. But he wasn't hurt by her choice, only concerned for her welfare.

Nathan was intrigued, however, that he had spent a great deal of time thinking about Fiona. He wondered what was bothering her. He somehow knew she was in danger. He had an uneasy feeling that something was wrong this night.

Tomorrow he would be home and he planned to find out what was going on. He couldn't bear the thought of anyone hurting her.

But now, he had to sleep.

###

Lucas walked Elizabeth home after they took care of all the candles and cleaned up the library. They held hands and couldn't keep their eyes off each other as they slowly strolled towards her house. They stopped on her porch and turned towards each other, Lucas holding both of her hands in his.

"Will you be at the library working in the morning?" Lucas asked.

"Yes, it's my last day this week. I'll be there early. Next week it's back to school," Elizabeth answered.

"Elizabeth, you have made me a very happy man tonight. I don't know if I will be able to sleep," Lucas said smiling broadly.

Elizabeth smiled back, "Lucas, I only wish my thinking had been clear sooner. I have enjoyed our evening…and your kisses."

"Well, Mrs. Thornton, let me give you something to remember me by tonight," Lucas said as he leaned closer. He pulled her to him, then released one of her hands and placed his on her cheek. Their lips touched gently, then more firmly. As the kiss deepened, Elizabeth felt herself leaning into Lucas, making the moment last. He slowly pulled back, meeting her gaze, then kissed her hand that he still held.

"Goodnight, my love. I can't wait to see you tomorrow after work. I'm sure I will have a long day with Mr. Smith," he said.

"I miss you already," Elizabeth said, as she turned the knob, waved at Lucas, and went inside.

Rosemary looked up from the couch as Elizabeth entered. Her mouth dropped open at the dreamy look in Elizabeth's eyes.

"Elizabeth, you need to tell me everything," Rosemary said quietly, patting the couch next to her.

Elizabeth sat down and told her…everything.

###

Fiona walked quietly down the stairs, her heart racing. She was glad this was one of the saloon's early nights. Everything was dark, so she was careful, not wanting to run into anything.

Hope Valley turned in early, so she knew she wouldn't see anyone this time of night. She had heard someone come up just a short time ago, probably Lucas. Then all went silent. Almost like a prelude to her planned meeting- a calm before the storm. She prayed a silent prayer before walking towards the back door. She placed her shaking hand on the handle and took a deep breath, trying not to cry. She thought of Nathan, and the hope she had had of a relationship with him. Then she thought of Johnny and how glad she was that they had reconnected. But she knew how Anthony hated her. He wanted revenge. He wanted her dead. Would she see either man again? Please God, she prayed, keep me safe. Don't let this be the end.

She turned the handle and walked into the cool night, slowly closing the door. She suddenly felt the cold of a pistol on her temple.

"I see you decided to be smart. I brought you a horse. Let's get out of here," Savage said in a low voice. "And don't try anything stupid."

Fiona mounted up, and so did Savage. There was another man on a horse next to him. Fiona took another look at the saloon, and let the tears flow down her face, not knowing if she would ever see it again.

###

Nathan startled awake. He sat up and shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts. He had just had a dream about Fiona. She was being dragged away and she was screaming "Nathan, help me!" but he couldn't hear her, only read her lips. He could see the terror in her eyes. Nathan kept reaching for her but she was just out of his grasp. Her face was all bruised. That was all he remembered before waking up.

He looked at the window and saw the pre-dawn light. He jumped out of bed and hurriedly dressed. He had to get back to Hope Valley as quickly as possible to make sure Fiona was alright.

Hopefully his imagination was just working overtime.

###

Fiona sat terrified in the corner. Her hands were numb from the rope binding them behind her back. She was tied to a table, and as much as she tried, she wasn't able to loosen her restraints. Savage had struck her in the face a couple of times and she knew she was bruised and swollen. Her face hurt. But she was thankful she was still alive. And he hadn't taken her honor- at least not yet. Only her peace.

Savage did more yelling than hitting, drinking in between his shouts. Apparently, the plan was to leave the cabin this morning. Fiona had no doubt how this would end if no one came to her rescue. He had told her over and over again exactly what his plans were.

Savage and his accomplice had spent most of the night drinking, and had finally fallen asleep a couple of hours ago, just at dawn. Fiona thought that might be to her advantage, as they would probably sleep several more hours. She would be missed when she didn't show up for work early this morning. She kept praying someone would save her. Nathan was out of town, but she knew Johnny would come for her when he realized she was gone.

Please, let them sleep a little longer, she prayed silently.

###

Lucas and Mr. Smith had gone to the office early. Lucas knew it would be a very long day and his thoughts kept wandering to Elizabeth. He had finally slept last night, and dreamed of their first kiss. He was a blessed man to be loved by her.

Mr. Smith went right to work on the ledgers. Soon he would be going over procedures and try to find ways of making the business more efficient and profitable. Lucas dreaded that, knowing that he might recommend firing some of the employees.

His mind drifted back to Elizabeth. She was probably at the library by now. He hoped she liked the surprise he left for her.

###

Elizabeth walked into the library and smiled. On the desk next to her typewriter there was a single red rose, and a pastry.

She walked over and picked up the rose to get a closer look. She couldn't resist smelling it and closed her eyes to take its fragrance in. As she looked down to set it in its resting place, she saw a note. She picked it up and read.

My love,

Last night exceeded any dreams I could have ever had about you- and us. I love you, sweet Elizabeth.

Never forget—

Lucas

Elizabeth's face brightened as she read the tender words from the man she loved. She knew what a busy day he had going on today, and that made this gesture even more special. What a romantic her Lucas was! She picked up the pastry and caught the distinct aroma of cinnamon- her favorite.

She was a blessed woman indeed.

###

Nathan came riding into town and stopped in front of the saloon. He hadn't been able to settle his mind since his dream and had to make sure Fiona was alright.

He walked in and looked around, thinking she would already be at work. He spotted John Davis sitting at a table and decided to speak to him.

"Davis, I was wondering if you have seen Fiona this morning," Nathan said as he strode up. John stood and shook his hand.

"No, Constable, I haven't. Albert told me last night she went up early with a headache and she should have been down an hour ago. I was just about to go up and knock on her door. I am guessing she overslept."

Nathan wasted no time taking the steps two at a time and knocking on her door. "Fiona, it's Nathan!" he called, knocking louder.

John had followed him up, wondering why the Mountie was so concerned.

Nathan looked down. "She's not answering."

John turned the knob and found it unlocked. He opened the door carefully, not knowing what he might find inside.

John and Nathan walked into the empty room and looked around. "It doesn't look like she slept here last night," John said. He walked over towards the desk and noticed a wrinkled paper laying there. As he picked it up and read, his face turned into a grimace. "Savage," he said aloud as he handed it to Nathan. Nathan quickly read and looked at John. "Do you know what this is about?" Nathan asked.

"Not exactly. I know Anthony Savage, or I did when I was young. He's bad news," John answered.

"Let's go talk to Judge Avery," Nathan said as they headed back out into the hallway.

"This letter is from her mother dated a month ago. If Savage has her, how did he get her?" John asked out loud.

"You go talk to your cousin or whoever saw her last and see what you can find out. Meet me at the sheriff's office," Nathan said as he hurried downstairs and out the door.

Nathan rushed over to the office. Bill looked up as he came in. He quickly told Bill what little he knew and handed him the letter to read. "Fiona is missing. Looks like this guy may have taken her last night," Nathan said.

Bill looked at the letter. "This isn't much to go on."

"Bill, I know something is wrong. She didn't show up for work today. Didn't appear to sleep in her bed last night. And…I had a…dream that she was taken."

"A dream? I can't put that in any report, but I can make a phone call to try to get some more information about this Savage character," Bill responded then picked up the phone. "Florence, I need to place a call to San Francisco, the sheriff's office there. Yes, ring me back." He looked at Nathan as he replaced the receiver, "Hopefully we will get some answers soon. If he did take her, we don't have any time to waste."

Nathan paced as they waited for the call. He knew they needed to get out there quickly if they had any chance of catching up with them. After what seemed like half of forever the phone rang and Bill answered it. "Yes…Sheriff Dawson, this is Judge Avery in Hope Valley. What can you tell me about an Anthony Savage? Especially pertaining to Fiona Miller?" Nathan heard Bill's half of the conversation and watched his face, waited for the call to end. John walked in holding another wrinkled paper about the time Bill hung up. "What's that?" Bill asked as John handed it to Nathan, who read it then quickly handed it to Bill.

"I found it in the trashcan behind the bar. I figured Savage may have sent her a letter or note since no one saw anything, so I looked until I found it," John answered.

"What did you find out from San Francisco?" Nathan asked Bill.

"I need to saddle my horse," Bill said. "We can talk on the way." John followed them out. Bill turned and looked at him. "We can handle this from here. We don't need any civilians getting in the way," he said to John.

"Oh, I'm coming with you," John said adamantly. "I know Ona better than anyone in this town. I would say my training with the Texas Rangers might come in handy. And I'm an excellent tracker."

Bill and Nathan looked at each other. "Then let's get moving," Bill said as they headed to the livery.

"I'm going to go look around behind the saloon. I'll meet you two there," Nathan said as he mounted up and headed out.

Nathan was kicking himself for not coming home last night. Perhaps he could have intercepted them on their way out of town. This Savage character better not have hurt her. If he did, Nathan would make sure he never hurt anyone again. Whatever that took.

He remembered his dream and thought to himself- Hold on, Fiona.

###

When they all met up behind the saloon, Nathan spoke. "Looks like three horses, so at least two men were here. We don't know if there are any others hiding out elsewhere, so we need to be alert."

"Alright, let's head out," Bill said as Nathan and John took the lead.

They were quiet for a bit, then Nathan spoke to Bill. "I think it's time you shared what you learned from the sheriff in San Francisco. But maybe you should tell us what you know first, Davis."

Bill rode up beside the two of them.

"Please, call me John," he said as he looked towards both of them. "The Savage brothers were pure evil growing up. Nelson was obsessed with Ona. I was concerned about leaving San Francisco when we moved because I wouldn't be there to protect her from him. Their father was rich and the boys bullied everyone. I mixed it up with both of them when we were young. Ona hasn't shared anything regarding them since I got to town. So, I am sure that you know more than I do, Judge, about anything that has happened since I moved away."

Bill nodded. "About two and a half years ago, Nelson kidnapped Fiona. He took her to the woods intending to…assault…her." He looked at both of them to make sure they understood his meaning. "What he didn't expect was that she would fight back. He beat her up in the process, but she somehow managed to get his gun as they struggled. As they fought over it, the gun went off killing Nelson. Anthony vowed his revenge and to keep him from getting in trouble or killed, his father sent him out of the country. Apparently, he returned home a few weeks ago and decided to find Fiona. Thus, the letter from her mother."

Nathan mulled over the things Bill said, concerned about what may have happened since 11 o'clock last night. That was about 10 hours ago. A lot could happen in that time. He was hoping Anthony hadn't succeeded where his brother had failed. He may be a Mountie but he was also a man. Hearing Fiona's story filled him with a hate for Savage and his dead brother.

"Bill," Nathan said, "it looks like we are headed toward that cabin in the woods. If they spent the night there, they might not be that far ahead of us."

"Let's get a move on, that's only 20 minutes away," Bill said as they traveled on.

John clenched his jaw in anger. He would never understand how a man could strike a woman. He hadn't known about the kidnapping. Or Nelson's death. No great loss there. In fact, Ona had done the world a favor. The men rode in silence, John's anger rising as he thought about what she might be dealing with right now. And knowing exactly what he had to do when they found them.

He was going to kill Anthony Savage.