Disclaimer: I do not own the characters within this story. All rights and much respect go to Crown Media, Hallmark, Brian Bird, Michael Landon, Jr., the actors, creators, and writers of the show "When Calls the Heart." Any real people or places noted in the chapter are just there for storyline purposes.
Chapter 19- Making Amends and Starting Anew
Tired, but unable to sleep, Elizabeth's eyes cracked open slightly. Her room was dark, and it was obviously too early for the sun to make an appearance. She stretched and calmly smiled before realizing that today was not just another day…it was her wedding day.
She glanced at the clock sitting on her bedside table, 5:27am, and she closed her eyes for a quick nap, but it turned into a moment of reflection instead.
She turned on the lamp sitting on her bedside table and pulled her journal from the drawer. Sitting up in bed, she crossed her legs, took a deep breath, and released the thoughts, feelings and emotions that seemed to be held tightly within her…
"Our lives are made up of moments, fleeting periods of precious time that we often take for granted, never realizing their value until they have become memories. We rush through each day, assuming that there will always be more; more time for thankfulness, more time for forgiveness, and more time to express the love we so deeply feel for those we hold close to our heart. Not until it is all taken away do we realize how priceless the gift of time truly is.
Sadly, we waste so much of our time wishing our lives away. We wish to be older, prettier or brighter; we wish that Monday were Friday, we wish for monetary wealth, as if money will cure everything, and, of course, we wish for love.
Often times we jump in head-first, assuming that each relationship is true love, that there is no feeling like what we are experiencing at that moment, and wondering with each breakup, will we ever feel those powerful emotions again. And then, the Lord puts the One, the Only One in your path, and what you feel literally stops you in our tracks and takes your breath away. Jack Thornton, not only are you perfect for me, not only have you lit a fire inside me, but Riley loves you with everything he has, a love I see reciprocated by you every day.
I've always believed that if you love something, you love it completely. You give your all…you say it, you cherish it, and above all else, you show it. We all know that life is fragile. What you have can be here today, and sadly gone tomorrow, so I will never take for granted what you have brought into my life…our lives. So, I'll choose to say what is needed, and then I'll say a little more. You may think I say too much, but I'll never want anything to be left unsaid.
As I look back on my life, I know that every choice, decision, adventure, experience, and yes, even every regret I've had, has led me to you. I put the sadness of my past tribulations behind me, realizing that each and every heartbreak has been well worth the pain, for if I had done even one thing differently, I may have never met you.
Today, my best friend will become my family. We will grow together and learn from each other, knowing the importance of accepting each one for who they are, and making no attempts to change them. For when you release expectations, you are then free to enjoy things the way they are instead of the way you think they should be.
As I embark on this new chapter, I do so with complete joy. I come to you without reservation or question, and I truly trust you with my life, our lives…and our hearts."
Elizabeth closed her journal and slipped it into the bag beside her bed. Planning to take her "keeper of secrets" with her on her honeymoon to Maldives, she pulled out her cellphone and 'googled' Maldives.
Elizabeth initially smiled at the bathing suits she'd recently purchased for this trip before her thoughts drifted to the various negligees that were also carefully packed away, simply waiting to make their appearance.
Across town, Jack sat on his computer, sweating like the proverbial pig, as he re-read an email from the resort in Maldives…
"Good morning, sorry to inform you, but we have a problem with your reservation. Apparently we are over-booked, so we have cancelled your reservation. We are happy to offer you a 25% discount on any future reservations; just use code Ooops914."
"Seriously…Good morning; what's good about it? My wedding is in four hours, and our honeymoon has blown up in my face," Jack muttered. He closed his eyes, "Think Jack…it's your wedding day; it's the best day of your life. You can figure out something."
He reached for his phone, hoping that someone would answer…
"Vakkaru, may I help you?"
"Yes, my name is Jack Thornton. I had a reservation for my…"
The clerk interrupted him, "Oh yes, we are so sorry for your problem. It was a misunderstanding with a new employee."
"My problem…well, I guess it's my problem, but my wedding is in a few hours, and I don't have a honeymoon lined up now. I'm hoping you can help me."
"Oh, I wish I could. I can give you phone numbers to other resorts, but I will tell you, that everything I know of is booked up, or we would have done that for you before we notified you of the problem."
Jack released a frustrated breath, "Okay, thank you anyway."
Hanging up the phone, his first thought was that the honeymoon was his one and only true job for the wedding, and he was now sitting in what felt lie a cataclysmic fail.
Without thinking, Jack pulled up the contact list on his phone, and immediately reached out…
"Hello…" the voice sounded groggy, or intoxicated, but since Jack knew the man to be a non-drinker, it was assumed that he was asleep.
"Harrison…it's Jack Thornton. I'm sorry to call you so early, but I need your help."
"What's wrong, Jack…?"
"I'm getting married today…"
"Oh man, I didn't know that; of course, you can stay over here…come on over."
"What?"
"You don't want to go through with it, right?"
"No, I love Elizabeth; if it was up to me, we would have already been married."
"Okay, well then, congratulations. What can I do to help?"
"Look, I had a fabulous honeymoon trip planned to the Maldives, and…"
"Oh man, don't tell me that they cancelled your reservation," Jack's travel agent friend responded.
"How did you know?"
"Because I had several clients that this happened to. I was scrambling around yesterday and managed to find the last three available villas. So, what can I do to help you, man?"
"Harrison, the honeymoon was my only job, and I can't show up with no trip for us to take. Can you help me…?"
"Tell me what you are looking for, and I'll see what I can do."
"We want a place to ourselves on a beach, with a private pool, and something really nice…you know, something that you'd take Heather to for a second honeymoon."
"How much do you want to spend?" Harrison asked.
"You probably don't hear this a lot, but 'I don't care what it costs.' I want to give her…us the trip of a lifetime, and I'm frantic right now, so I might end up renting a place in Mexico owned by the cartel or something. I know that you have the inside info on all the best places…please help me!"
"Don't worry, Jack. What about transportation?"
"I have access to a private plane to anywhere…"
"WOW, who do you know?"
"Jennifer Hudson…"
"Yeah right…okay, I'll have something for you in a little while."
"Please make it before 10, I can't say 'I do' when I don't have a honeymoon planned."
"Don't worry, I'll have something fabulous for you two."
"Thanks, Harrison. I hope I didn't wake Heather up."
"No, she's still laying here sound asleep. I'll call you in a little while."
Jack hung up the phone and released a breath, one that showed both his frustration and relief, and he thought about how lucky Harrison was to be able to wake up to his wife, Heather, every morning. He threw the covers back, hopped out of bed and headed for the shower.
Standing in the shower as the water ran over his naked body, Jack was brought to tears. He knew for quite some time that Elizabeth was the only woman he'd ever want in his life, and his thoughts raced through their time together, and everything that had occurred between them in that short time frame.
His tears mixed quickly with the water as he thought about meeting her through Riley, sweet, loving Riley. His heart leap in his chest before being ripped apart when he assumed that she was married, only to find it pounding again when he learned of Elizabeth adopting her "son."
Jack leaned his back against the shower wall as the water continued to cover him. He shook his head at the misunderstandings which threatened their relationship, and the two occasions that they broke up. Before Elizabeth entered his life, he'd never been truly in love, so when relationships fell apart, he may have been disappointed, but he simply moved on.
That was until he and Elizabeth broke up the first time over his job. He knew without a doubt that had to be the worst two weeks of his life. At that point he was hooked, like no time before, he loved her and Riley, and was thinking in terms of family, with bachelorhood no longer being a part of his vocabulary.
Before Jack had a chance to breathe a sigh of relief, he recalled the time at the zoo when Riley ran off to confront the bear. Jack remembered watching Riley playing and in the short period of time that he and Elizabeth were focusing on each other, Riley disappeared. As such, Elizabeth questioned her relationship with him and quickly backed away, assuming that to be a good mother, she needed to remain single.
Jack was concerned by Elizabeth's obsession over Riley's safety, and as she assumed that she must be the only parent this had ever happened to, she questioned her competency, even contemplating turning her son over to Lionel's parents to raise.
Thankful that Elizabeth came to her senses quickly, this breakup was not nearly as long, but just as heart wrenching as the one before. Within days they were back together, and looking forward to a life as a family, each one excited to leave their 'single' status behind.
Then, as if the sun awoke by hanging from the ceiling of the bathroom, there was light, a bright light, and his tears ceased as his smile covered his face. Today was truly the best day of his life, but only slightly ahead of meeting her, proposing to her, and signing the papers to adopt her son, Riley.
As the water continued to wash over him, he felt the thoughts, feelings and emotions of those trying times slipping down the drain, and he couldn't have been more thankful.
Thirty minutes away, Elizabeth stood in her own bathroom staring in the mirror at her wet hair, puffy eyes, and tear stained cheeks, wondering how in the world the Lord saw fit to bring Jack into her life. Not only did she believe that he loved her unconditionally, and was perfect for her, but Riley loved him, and she knew the feelings were reciprocated. Although there was no plan to have children right away, Elizabeth had no doubt that in Jack's eyes, Riley would always be his first born.
Hearing noises outside, Elizabeth tied the belt on her robe tightly around her waist and pulled her hair up into a dry towel before walking to the back door to investigate.
As she stood in the doorway, Elizabeth watched as several workmen assembled the arch in her backyard while several other women released the flower arrangements and an abundance of loose flowers into the pool.
Elizabeth waved to the women by the pool and advised that she would be out after she dried her hair. With plenty of work still to be done, they waved back and told her "Don't rush…"
With her hair now dry and waiting on the hair stylist and makeup artist to arrive, Elizabeth slipped into a pair of grey sweatpants and a white crop top t-shirt before stepping out into the back yard.
The arch was now assembled, and white chiffon with a spray of flowers in various shades of pink hung from the top as the material was pulled back and tied by flowers of identical color and style as those above it. An aisle runner was also in place as Elizabeth stepped across without touching it, feeling that for some reason it would be bad luck to do so before walking on it down to the altar. She perused the beautiful flower arrangements, ten in all, which contained white, light pink and hot pink roses, as they floated about the pool, dispersing the free floating roses, minus the stems, that effectively covered approximately a third of the water's surface.
Elizabeth thanked the florist's work crew when she took possession of her and Mary's bouquets, and the corsages and boutonnieres, handing the crew supervisor a $100 tip and suggested that they check out the cinnamon rolls at Ann Sather Restaurant.
"Trust me, if I didn't have something much more important to do this morning, I'd be heading over there…" Elizabeth joked which actually helped ease the stress of the rushed morning.
She again thanked the crew as they made their way through her side gate and she stepped inside through the back door. Once inside, she heard her doorbell. Expecting the hair stylist and makeup artist, she rushed to the door.
Standing on the porch was Angela, a hair stylist friend of Mary's. Elizabeth quickly ushered her inside and into the bathroom they went where Angela immediately began to perform what Elizabeth considered to be a miracle.
"A miracle… girl, you could walk down the aisle right now, just like this and you would still be gorgeous."
"That's nice of you to say, but I think my outfit would be a bit of a put off standing at the altar, don't you think?" Elizabeth responded as both women giggled.
Hearing the front door open, Elizabeth glanced into the mirror, checking the reflection for the person coming inside. "Who's there?" she called out.
"It's just me," Mary called out as she turned the corner and headed down the hall to the bathroom. "I saw Angela's car outside, so I assumed that you two were busy," Mary stated as she stared at Elizabeth in the mirror. "You look beautiful this morning…Jack is going to lose it when he sees you."
"Nice try, Mary, but Angela hasn't even started yet…"
"Well, it's just a tribute to your inner and outer beauty," Mary replied.
"Do you think he's going to show up?" Elizabeth asked, suddenly looking much like a deer caught in headlights.
"You don't seriously think he won't be here, do you?" Mary asked just as Elizabeth's phone chimed, signifying a text.
Elizabeth smiled as she held up her phone and read the message from Jack…
"Just wanted 2 tell u how much I love u. I can't w8 2 say 'I do'…"
"I love u 2. The florist built the altar in the backyard & put flowers in the pool…"
Her phone rang and needing to hear his voice, she immediately answered it, "I love you, Jack."
"I love you too. Do you need me to do anything before the ceremony?"
"No, just…" she stopped as she felt tears welling in her eyes.
"Just what, honey?"
"Just show up…" she replied, her voice sounding soft and hesitant.
"Do you seriously think I won't be there?" Jack replied.
"Well, you still have a few hours to change your mind."
"Elizabeth, I'll be there by 9:30, and I am most certainly not changing my mind, but I do need to talk to you about something."
"Is something wrong?" she asked, feeling her breath catch in her throat.
Realizing that he shouldn't have added to her stress this morning, he kept the honeymoon debacle to himself. "No, nothing is wrong. I wrote my vows…"
"Oh no…"
"Elizabeth, oh no, what?"
"I haven't written my vows…"
"Elizabeth; don't worry about it; everything will be fine. Just write from your heart."
"Just make a copy of yours; I'm sure that they will fit for me too…" she responded, sounding as though she was kidding, but internally, she wasn't so certain.
Unaware that he was now on speaker phone, Jack attempted to ease the stress she was under by adding a bit of levity. "Elizabeth, I'll be glad to let you have them, but you'll need to change it around when you get to the part about wanting to make mad passionate love to you, and…"
"Jack…wait," Elizabeth attempted to interrupt him, but he was on a roll. Looking at her phone, she attempted to remove him from speaker, but couldn't find the icon quickly enough.
"How my body takes over my mind whenever I see you, think about you, hear your voice, or smell your perfume, and as a result, 'Little Jack' becomes excited. and…well, he's always ready for you."
"Jack…"
"Oh God, no…Mary is that you?" Jack barely got the words past the huge lump that quickly grew in his throat
"Yep…You might need to get Little Jack checked out…"
"Please tell me that Mr. and Mrs. Thatcher aren't there too…"
"No, it's just me, Elizabeth and Angela," all three women burst out laughing.
"Thanks for lightening the moment, Jack. I do love you, and thanks for the offer, but I'll write my own vows," Elizabeth responded as she felt more relaxed, but wasn't certain how long that feeling of tranquility would last. "Oh, and by the way, you aren't putting any of that Little Jack stuff in the vows, are you?"
"Of course not," Jack replied. "Oh, and ladies, please excuse what I said; it was really only for Elizabeth to hear. I thought we were on a private…conversation."
"I'm sorry Jack; I did try to stop you, but I do feel better."
"I'm glad you feel better. Now would you please take me off speaker phone for a minute?"
"Okay, it's just us. I'm sorry, but I didn't think you were going to say…well, you know…"
"Everything I said is true; I've wanted to be with you since the moment I met you. I couldn't stop thinking about you, and once we met again, I couldn't get you off my mind. Elizabeth, I consider myself to be the luckiest man in the world to be marrying you," Jack replied. "I'll see you at 11…" Jack laughed silently.
"11…? Jack the ceremony is at 10…"
"I was just teasing, Elizabeth. I'll be there in plenty of time. Oh, did you find the music you wanted?"
"I was looking for a different kind of song to walk down the aisle to, but there wasn't anything that struck me, so the Wedding March will have to do."
Once the call ended, it was back to the business at hand, and Elizabeth quickly returned to being a nervous bride. "Do you know he told me that he'd be here at 11."
"He does know the ceremony is at 10, doesn't he?" Mary asked. "Oh, never mind, he was just teasing."
"I know, but it wasn't funny," Elizabeth responded.
"Well, he was just getting you back for having him on speaker phone," Mary reminded her.
"I did try to stop him…" Elizabeth responded in an attempt to justify herself. Taking a moment to reflect, she continued, "You're right, I deserved that."
With Elizabeth sitting still in the chair in front of her mirror, Angela worked her magic by loosely French braiding her hair, leaving two small strands falling freely along her temples, and tucking her long tresses under before strategically placing baby's breath in the back.
"Okay, let's do your makeup…" Angela stated as she pulled a case from her tote bag.
"I thought someone else was coming to do makeup…" turning in her seat to glance in Angela's direction, "Not that I don't think you can do it, but I just thought there was someone else."
"Well, you made an appointment with my roommate, Marcela, but she had a family emergency, so you are lucky, and you get me…" Angela smiled as she pulled makeup from her bag. "Is that okay?"
"Of course, it's okay, but I really don't wear a lot of makeup, so I don't want to look like a clown."
"You have beautiful skin; I can tell that you need minimal makeup. I'm sure you'll be happy with what I do."
As Angela put the finishing touches on Elizabeth's makeup, the front door opened and Riley rushed inside, "Mommy, it's our wedding day…"
Before Riley made it back to the bathroom, Elizabeth commented, "He is so excited to have Jack as his father."
"He's not the only one; I think Jack is excited about it too. Well, his excitement is up there with being your husband!" Mary remarked.
"Well, that's good. I was wondering if he was just taking me too because I come with Riley…you know we're a package deal."
Riley rushed in and jumped into Elizabeth's lap, "Where's daddy?"
"He'll be here soon. I'm not supposed to see him until I walk down the aisle."
"Why…?" the small child asked.
"It's bad luck for us to see each other until the ceremony; but he'll be here, I just talked to him."
Her explanation seemed to satisfy him as Riley kissed her cheek and then disappeared into his room.
After Angela packed up her belongings, received her check and left the house, Mary pulled Elizabeth aside. "I hope you aren't upset…"
"About what?" Elizabeth asked.
"Well, I know you have been stressed trying to get everything done, and although the ceremony is at 10, Ryan and I made arrangements for a catering company to do some food; you know, like cheese, crackers, fruits trays and vegetables. We're setting up a coffee station next to the juice and tea you arranged for. Of course, the bakery is delivering the cake too…"
"Mary, thank you so much; that was so thoughtful of you and Ryan," Elizabeth stepped in and the two women hugged. "I love you and Ryan so much," she stated as her tears began to flow.
Riley stepped back into the bathroom, "Oh no, mommy's crying. I don't like it when you cry, mommy…"
Much like a sun shower, Elizabeth smiled but her tears continued to fall. "Honey, I'm okay; these are happy tears." She hugged her young son, "Will you do me a favor and go help grandma and Papa with any last minute set up arrangements?"
"Okay…" and with that simple request, Riley was running down the hall toward the back door.
Elizabeth took a breath, "Mary, I know Jack loves me, but do you think he fell for Riley, before me…? Oh, forget I even said that; I don't know where my mind is this morning," she stated as the two women walked down the hall to the master bedroom.
"I never told you this, but…"
"But what…?" Elizabeth asked. "Is this going to upset me, because if it is, I don't want to know. Oh, who am I kidding…you've opened the can now, I've got to know…"
"No, it isn't bad."
"Well then, what is it?"
"Elizabeth, I know you were kidding when you said that you came with Riley, so Jack had to take you, but I don't know if you realize how wrong you are."
"What are you talking about, Mary?"
"Before you and Jack officially met I had lunch with him, and all he could talk about was this woman who had waited on him, but she didn't really wait on him at a restaurant, and he couldn't find her. He thought he'd found her, but it wasn't her, and he was a mess. He really wasn't making much sense."
"I know he was looking for me, but I didn't know he talked to you about it."
"I remember sitting at Regino's eating pizza and drinking a beer and he said, 'Have you ever met someone who for whatever reason turns your world upside down…in a good way, I mean, and all you can do is think about her, wonder who she is, and pray that in a city this large, that you will see her again?'"
"I didn't know that;" Elizabeth responded.
"Well, he was smiling at first, and then his face changed. Not knowing what he was talking about or where the conversation was going with this mystery woman, I pressed 'record' on my phone, so I could play it back at a later date and show him how silly he was being."
Mary pulled her phone from her purse and pressed the icon for her 'Photos and Videos.' Scrolling through months and months of pictures and videos, she pushed 'play' when she reached her video of choice.
As the video, with no actual picture due to the phone lying face down on the table, began to play, Elizabeth could hear Jack's voice, "Part of me wants to see her again, because…I know, and you'll think this is crazy, but I think she's the one. But then, she's perfect, and she must be with someone, married, or engaged or in the very least dating someone. So, not seeing her again allows me to live in this fantasy, because…I could see it in her eyes; Mary, stop laughing… I could see into her soul, and I know we were meant to be together. But I think it will kill me if I do see her again and find out for sure that she's with someone else. What's wrong with me?"
Suddenly Mary's voice could be heard, "I told you Jack that you'd meet the woman of your dreams when you least expect it…I can't say that even I thought about this scenario. But I guess if it's meant to happen, you'll see her again. What's her name?"
"Becky…that's all I know," Jack responded.
Seeing the depressed look come over him, Mary attempted to change the subject, but forgot to shut off her recorder. "How's work going?"
Although Jack's face could not be seen, there was a lift in his voice, "That part of my life is going great. There is this young boy, I think he's about 7, and his name is Riley. He seems a little shy, but I'm really hoping that I can get him out to play and maybe he'll open up. I'm not sure what's going on with him at home, but I'm thinking maybe his dad isn't spending much time with him. He wants to learn to play basketball, but maybe he doesn't have anyone to teach him."
Mary interjected, "Well, if there is anyone who can get through to him and bring him out of his shell, it's you, Jack Thornton. He's lucky for having met you…"
"Maybe so, but somehow I think it's the other way around," Jack commented before the recording ended.
Looking at Elizabeth, Mary grabbed a few tissues, "I'm so sorry; what is wrong with me, I didn't mean to make you cry."
"That's okay; I needed to hear that, thank you…" Elizabeth stated as she gathered her essentials and headed for her bedroom. "You can get ready in here if you want."
Hearing the doorbell ring, Elizabeth glanced at the clock on her bedside table, "It's not even 9:00 yet. I know it isn't you or my parents, and Jack isn't going to be here until about 9:30; it must be Reverend Culbertson."
Assuming that one of her parents would answer the door, Elizabeth was taken aback when Riley came down the hall tugging on the hand of his paternal grandfather, Martin.
"Mommy, Papa is here to see you," Riley stated as he turned and ran down the hall, "It's gonna be a good day, everyone is here. Oh wait, grandma isn't here, and where's daddy…?" his voice faded the farther away he got from Elizabeth's room, wrapping his arms around his Grandma Grace, who had stepped inside to see if she was needed for anything.
Realizing that she needed to allow Elizabeth and Martin to speak alone, she and Riley stepped outside.
Dressed in a suit, Martin stood in the doorway to Elizabeth's bedroom. He was noticeably nervous and hesitant, but still asked, "I don't want to disturb you, but could we talk for a few minutes?"
Mary hesitated but excused herself when Elizabeth invited Martin into her room. "I'll be back in a few minutes to help you get ready."
"Martin, would you mind waiting in the den so I can get dressed first?"
"Absolutely…take whatever time you need."
Once dressed, she stepped out into the hallway and called Martin back to her room."
"Oh Elizabeth, you are beautiful…"
"Thank you," Elizabeth took a seat on the side of her bed, while Martin walked…actually, he paced.
"Elizabeth, I need to tell you that Catherine is in the car, and she would like to apologize to you, but I wasn't sure how you would take her being here today, so she's waiting until after we talk."
"Martin, I did call to invite you both, but Catherine has been saying such hurtful things to me, and about me to Riley, and I just don't want her disapproval of everything to put a damper on my wedding. Can you understand that?"
"I do, and after I say what I need to say, we'll leave if you want us to."
"Okay, I'm listening…"
"Elizabeth, Catherine and I love you, but she still hasn't dealt with Lionel's loss, and the only tie to him is Riley. I'm not saying it's right or wrong, I'm just saying how she feels."
"I understand her loss, I mean, I lost my sister, too. But Martin, I put my life on hold for the past five years, and I'm not saying that I'm upset about it, because I'm not, and I will always put Riley first. But, you and Catherine need to understand, Riley needs a father figure in his life, and I need a good man like Jack in mine," Elizabeth explained, but before he could respond, she continued.
"Martin, Riley is an intelligent insightful little boy, but he closed himself off from people. Maybe he did so because of signals we were all giving him about not getting close or you could get hurt when you lose someone you love…I don't know. But Jack, he genuinely loves Riley, and he's brought him out of his shell. They spend time together, and he's given Riley a sense of normalcy."
"You are a wonderful mother to Riley, and no matter what Catherine has said, you are his mother. I don't know your fiancé, and I can only assume that since he has caught your heart, that he is a good man, and a perfect fit for Riley."
"Martin, I want you to know that Jack has never pushed himself on Riley, or me for that matter. He was just as surprised as I was when Riley started calling him 'Daddy.'"
"I think that's when Catherine lost control of her senses…she thought that Riley was going to forget about Lionel."
"Well, in all honesty, Martin, Riley was so young that he really doesn't remember Lionel or Viola, for that matter, but you can be assured that we talk about them; there are pictures of them around the house, and he will always know that they loved him dearly."
"Elizabeth, I appreciate that, and I know Catherine does too," Martin's voice was soft and full of emotion. "We both love you and appreciate the fact that you put everything on hold to become Riley's guardian. It is time for you to think of yourself too. I understand you wanting to provide him with a family. I…we even understand the decision to allow Jack to adopt him. Catherine and I have talked, and we believe, given the circumstances that Lionel would understand and is even smiling down on you both as you navigate through everything."
"Martin, I appreciate your understanding and kind words, but Catherine has made it truly clear that I'm not fit to raise Riley. It all started when I began dating Jack. She made it sound like I had a revolving door of men coming and going out of my house. It was untrue and hurtful and even made me question whether she may be right," Elizabeth could feel tears spilling down her cheeks, "Maybe I wasn't the person who should raise him."
"I'm sorry honey, I don't mean to upset you."
"Martin, when Riley came into my life, I was is a serious relationship with Charles. I don't know if we would have gotten married, but that was the direction we were heading. Riley immediately became my priority which Charles did not understand. I ended that relationship, and never looked back, which had to mean something. Charles was obviously not the right man for me or Riley, because if he had been, I wouldn't have walked away so easily," Elizabeth dabbed a tissue on her cheeks to dry her tears.
"When Jack came into our lives, I contemplated ending the relationship even before I truly gave it a chance. Before I considered what was right for me, I have always put Riley's needs first. I knew Jack was different when we met, but I fell in love with him the more time we spent together and observed the bond he built with Riley. I love Jack and I know in my heart that to him, Riley will always be treated as his son, his first born, and any children that come from this marriage will be loved equally. But Jack would never try to take Lionel's place, and he wants his relationship with Riley to be whatever Riley wants it to be, okay?"
"Okay, and I understand. I hate to ask, but Catherine would like to apologize to you, and we would both love to attend your wedding ceremony, if that's okay."
Concerned that Catherine would upset her but knowing how important their attendance at the wedding would be to Riley, she agreed.
Martin stepped outside and returned a few moments later with an already crying Catherine. By this time, it was 9:20, and Elizabeth was nowhere near ready for her wedding.
"Grandma, you came…you need to meet Mr. Jack, you'll love him too," Riley came in from outside and rushed to his grandmother, knowing in his young mind that things had not been good between her and his mother. He wasn't certain why but assumed that it had to do with Jack.
Riley's own tears began, "Grandma, I know you miss my daddy, but please be nice to mommy and Mr. Jack. My friends said that no one wants to marry a girl who already has a kid, but Mr. Jack loves mommy and me, so please don't scare him away…"
Elizabeth put her arms around Riley, eventually calming him. "Honey, will you go outside for a few minutes and let me finish talking with your grandparents?"
"Okay, but please grandma…be nice," Riley remarked as he ran from the house hoping to keep everyone from seeing the tears that again began to roll down his cheeks.
Catherine turned her attention to Elizabeth, "I am so sorry, and I understand if you don't want me here. I've said some cruel things, and even when I said them, I knew they weren't true. I'm so sorry Elizabeth. Martin and I love you and appreciate everything you have done and continue to do for Riley. I know you have turned your world upside down for him. Just so you know, I honestly believe that you are his mother, and I know that you would not open your heart to a man if he wasn't right for both you and Riley. So, congratulations to you and Jack, and I pray that you will allow Martin and me to remain a part of Riley's life…"
Deciding that now was as good a time as any to begin a new day and start a new chapter in all of their lives, she smiled, "Catherine," Elizabeth leaned in and hugged Riley's grandmother. Leaning back, "I have always loved you and Martin… I was hurt by what you said, and the anger that seemed to be behind it. But I do understand, or at least I believe it comes from your feeling of loss, and I'm willing to put things behind us. I just want us…all of us to put Riley first. After all, he is the most important person here. Can we all agree on that?"
"Yes," both Catherine and Martin agreed.
Unable to stay away, Riley came back inside, "Mommy, don't cry; it scares me when you cry…"
Elizabeth grabbed another tissue from the entryway table and dabbed at her tears, hoping not to ruin her makeup. Glancing down at Riley and seeing his apprehensive expression, Elizabeth whispered, "I'm okay, sweetheart," she promised. "Riley, your grandparents will be staying for the wedding. Will you do me a favor and escort them outside so they can find a seat?"
"Oh goody, everyone's here that I love…except daddy."
Observing Riley look from person to person, as if Jack would jump out from behind one of them, Elizabeth could see the concern in his eyes. "Where's daddy?" Riley asked, not understanding that Jack wasn't supposed to arrive too early and take the chance of seeing Elizabeth before the ceremony.
"He'll be here, honey…" Elizabeth assured him. As Riley happily ran off with his paternal grandparents in tow, Elizabeth glanced at the clock on the wall…9:37. She glanced out the window and didn't see his vehicle in the driveway. However, she did see several vehicles that she couldn't identify, and assumed that they belonged to friends that Jack had invited.
Thankful that her parents were present and helping with the outside arrangements, Elizabeth sat several music CD's on the kitchen counter.
She walked back to her room, grabbed her phone off of the bed and sent Jack a text…
"U r coming, right…?" she held the phone in her hands expecting him to text her back immediately. Across town, Jack left his phone sitting in the passenger seat of his vehicle while he ran back inside to retrieve something he'd forgotten.
When Elizabeth didn't hear back, she found Mary in one of the guest bedrooms. "Have you heard from Jack?"
"No, but I'm sure he'll be here in time."
"You don't think he's not coming, do you?"
"Elizabeth, he's probably pulling into the driveway right now."
Elizabeth turned away and headed for the front of the house. Glancing out the front window, she observed Ryan parking cars, several of her invited teacher colleagues walking around toward the back of the house and Riley standing in the front yard watching the street.
She opened the front door, "Riley, come here please," calling him inside for fear that something would happen to him in all of the confusion.
"But I'm waiting for daddy."
"I know honey, but there is so much going on out there, I don't want anything to happen to you."
"Your eyes are watery. Are you crying again, mommy?"
"I'm fine, honey," she responded. "Can you do me a favor and go out back and stay with Grandma Grace?"
"I want to wait for daddy."
"Honey, I have to finish getting ready, and I'm afraid to let you be out front without someone to keep an eye on you," she stated. "There is a lot of traffic on the street today."
"Can we call daddy?"
"I texted him, but he didn't…honey, don't worry; he'll be here," she hoped to ease his mind, even though she was beginning to worry enough for the both of them.
Elizabeth watched as Riley, dressed in his tuxedo with pink vest and tie and white boutonniere over the decorative pocket handkerchief skeptically walked out into the backyard.
Jack checked his watch as he pulled out onto the highway hoping not to hit any traffic. He immediately dialed Elizabeth's number, hoping not to worry her, but her phone sat on the kitchen counter unanswered. He then called Ryan, who left his phone in the car, so that call went unanswered as well.
Jack's phone rang and the screen displayed "Harrison Payton," pushing the notification from Elizabeth's text from view, correspondence that Jack had yet to see.
"Hey Harrison, were you able to get something for us?" Jack asked, feeling quite stressed at the moment.
"I did. It's a private house in Nags Head, North Carolina…"
Jack initially said nothing, thinking to himself that there is no way on earth that Nags Head could compete with Maldives. "I was hoping for something tropical…"
"Jack, you didn't give me a lot to work with. You need it today, and on such short notice, not a great deal is available unless you want to stay in a hotel."
"I know, but I had this fabulous place all lined up in Maldives, and I don't want to disappoint Elizabeth."
"Well, let me tell you about the house, and if you don't want it, I'll keep looking."
Realizing that time was of the essence, he stated, "Okay, I'm sure it will be fine; tell me about it."
"Well, it's right on the ocean, and the glass lined oceanfront living area provides magnificent views of the water. I know it's just you and your fiancé…well, I guess she'd be your wife by then…anyway, there are a bunch of bedrooms, and bathrooms, a really nice kitchen, den and game room. Oh, and there is a pool and a hot tub too. So, what do you think?"
"It sounds great, and I'm sure Elizabeth will love it; I had just built her up to going to Maldives that I hope it doesn't disappoint her. Book it for me and when I get to Elizabeth's I'll send you my card number to cover the rent."
"You don't even know how much it is…"
"Harrison, at this point, I don't care."
"Well, it's $5,000 for the week."
"Okay, I'll get you my card information when I stop driving. Thanks for your help…"
Jack continued on his way, paying little to no attention to his speed. As blue lights lit up his rearview mirror, and a blaring siren behind him split the silence of the morning, Jack pulled over.
Rolling down his window, he glanced in his side mirror and observed Officer Stacy Stanton approaching the driver side of his vehicle.
"Excuse me sir…Jack Thornton, why are you in such a hurry…?"
"Stacy, I'm getting married today…"
"Oh, are you running away?"
"No, I forgot the wedding rings on my kitchen table, and I had to go back for them, but I only have ten minutes before the ceremony…"
"Follow me; oh wait, where is the ceremony?"
Jack gave her the address and watched as she pulled in front of him. Following the blue lights, Jack turned on his flashers and stayed close to his sister-in-blue. As they turned into the neighborhood, Stacy shut off the lights and siren and drove past Elizabeth's house as Jack pulled into her driveway.
Reaching over onto the passenger seat, Jack clutched the ring box that contained the symbol of their forever love. He also grabbed another item, assuming that he wouldn't see Elizabeth, he was hoping that Mary could get it to her before the ceremony.
Standing at the side gate, Riley observed Jack get out of his vehicle. "Daddy, you did come."
"Of course, I did; were you worried?"
"Mommy was crying?"
"Crying…why?" Jack asked as he started for the front door. Walking inside, he immediately closed his eyes. "Elizabeth…are you in here?"
"Jack, you are here, but you can't see me until the ceremony," she stated as she closed her eyes while her hands moved along the hallway keeping her from walking into the walls.
"My eyes are closed…"
"Mine are too."
"Riley said that you were crying…why; I'm sorry I was late. I had to go back home and grab the wedding bands. I didn't realize until I was almost here that they weren't in the vehicle."
"Well. I have to tell you, I was getting nervous, but Martin and Catherine are here, and I can explain later, but she apologized, and we're family after all, but it was emotional talking to them."
Jack stuck his arms out and after several misplacements of his hands, Riley stepped forward, "Daddy this is funny; it's like playing that game 'Pin the Tail on the Donkey."
"Are you calling me a donkey, young man…?" Elizabeth smiled.
"No mommy," turning his attention to Jack, he says, "Let me help you," and he placed Jack's hands into Elizabeth's.
"What's this?" she asked as she held a small puffed heart made out of felt in the palm of her hand.
"It's my heart," Jack moved his hand upward, cradling her cheeks, "I love you, Elizabeth Thatcher, and I can't wait to make you my wife." Jack leaned in and had no difficulty locating her lips.
Her lips were soft and warm, and although they'd kissed many times before…this was different. This kiss seemed to hold promises of a new future.
"You three look beautiful and handsome," Mary stated as she stepped out of one of the guest bedrooms.
"I'm sure you look beautiful, as does Elizabeth, but I just can't look right now," Jack responded. Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out his wedding ring, an 18K yellow gold 6mm etched channel set diamond band.
"Mary, I guess you hold on to this."
Jack held out his hand and Mary removed the ring from his palm, "I'll keep it safe."
Turning his attention back to Elizabeth, "May I kiss you once more Elizabeth Thatcher?"
"You don't need to ask, my lips always long for yours…"
Jack stepped closer as their lips, much like magnets met. Riley looked up at Mary, "They do that a lot!"
Mr. Thatcher burst through the back door, "Has anyone seen Jack…?" Glancing into the hallway, he observed them in an intimate moment, "I'm sorry to interrupt, but everyone is seated and ready. Reverend Culbertson is here, and people are beginning to wonder where the groom and best man are."
With his eyes remaining closed, Jack's lips pressed softly against Elizabeth's forehead, "I'll see you, and I mean I'll really see you in a few minutes. Don't forget your vows…" he took her hand and placed it on his chest tapping on his jacket, "I have mine right here."
"Vows, oh no, I forgot to write my vows," Elizabeth turned away. "Jack, I can't get married without vows."
Jack reached out and took hold of her arm. He gently turned her back around and although neither of there were looking, they faced each other. "Just speak from your heart," he kissed her one final time, and before she knew it, he and Riley were gone.
Standing on the back deck, Jack reached into his pocket and pulled out Elizabeth's wedding ring, a thin gold band with diamonds all the way around which matched her engagement ring perfectly. "Put this in your pocket and don't take it out until I need to put it on your mom's finger, okay?"
"Okay, daddy…" Riley replied as he immediately stuck it into his right tuxedo pocket.
"Remember, it's not official until the rings are on our fingers," Jack reminded him. "So, don't lose it…"
"I'll be ready. We want it to be ficial…"
"Close, it's official…" Jack replied.
Once Elizabeth heard the back door close, she opened her eyes. The first thing she saw was her father's smile, and then the tears that ran down his cheeks. "Are you okay, daddy?"
"You look so beautiful, Elizabeth…I'm allowed to cry on my daughter's wedding day."
Seeing Mary wearing a long, flowing, chiffon dress with spaghetti straps in a shade of purple, Elizabeth released a soft laugh, "The colors of this wedding are all over the place. Riley is in pink, Jack is in mint, Mary is in purple, and well, I'm wearing white."
"I'm sorry Elizabeth; I had a pink dress just like this, but it had been packed away, and I didn't get it back from the cleaners in time," Mary felt the need to apologize. "If you have something else you want me to wear, I can quickly change…"
Elizabeth stepped away from her father and hugged Mary, "Don't you dare, and please don't give it another thought. This wedding will be perfect just the way it is, and" she leaned in and whispered, "I can't remember if I told you, but Jack is taking me to Maldives for our honeymoon."
"Oh, you lucky girl. I love you Elizabeth, and I can't think of a better person for you and Riley than Jack. I'm so happy for both of you."
Stepping toward the back door, Elizabeth observed her music CD's sitting on the counter. "Oh, I forgot about the music," She stated as she reached out to grab them.
"Leave them alone honey," her father took hold of her hand. "Jack has taken care of some of the music for you…"
Hearing violin music playing in her backyard, Elizabeth asked, "What's that?"
"I believe that's Canon in D Major, and my cue to walk down the aisle," Mary stated as she grabbed her bouquet of pink roses from the counter, kissed Elizabeth on the cheek, and stepped outside.
As Elizabeth stepped closer to the door, her father stopped her, "If you want a big wedding with all the colors and flowers that match and everything, you know I'll pay for it, and you can put this off," her father offered, concerned that she would regret not having what he assumed every woman dreamed of, and what he wanted to provide for his daughter.
Through her already falling tears, she responded in a breathy tone, "Daddy, I love you and mom so much, but truthfully, I'm proud of what we've put together in one week, and I really can't think of anything I'd change. So, if you're ready, let's go get me married…"
Mr. Thatcher looked out the window, turned to Elizabeth and said, "Mary is almost at the altar; I guess it's time to go."
Before the door opened, Mr. Thatcher placed a CD in the player.
"What's that?" Elizabeth asked as the music began playing.
"It's a song Jack picked out," her father replied. Standing out on the deck, he continued, "Apparently you were looking for something different, but couldn't find anything. This is his selection…"
Stepping off the deck, "I Get to Love You" by Ruelle, began to play through the stereo system…
One look at you,
my whole life falls in line.
I prayed for you
before I called you mine.
Oh I can't believe it's true sometimes.
Oh I can't believe it's true.
With the guests all standing, Jack couldn't initially see Elizabeth. As she stepped onto the runner and headed for the altar, he received his first glance at the love of his life in a wedding dress as she was escorted down the aisle by her father.
I get to love you.
It's the best thing that I'll ever do.
I get to love you.
It's a promise I'm making to you:
Whatever may come your heart I will choose
Forever I'm yours, Forever I do.
I get to love you
I get to love you
The way you love,
it changes who I am.
I am undone.
I thank God once again.
Oh I can't believe it's true sometimes.
Oh I can't believe it's true.
I get to love you.
It's the best thing that I'll ever do.
I get to love you.
It's a promise I'm making to you:
Whatever may come your heart I will choose.
Forever I'm yours, Forever I do.
I get to love you
I get to love you
I get to love you
I get to love you
And they say love is a journey.
I promise that I'll never leave.
When it's too heavy to carry
Remember this moment with me.
I get to love you
I get to love you
I get to love you
Wearing a white, floor length dress with a delicate lace design, invisible zipper, flowy spaghetti straps covered by lace which criss crossed near her lower back, she smiled but held tightly to her father's arm as they made their way passed her most cherished guests.
Although Jack remained standing, he was sure that he'd experienced some type of medical episode. He couldn't move and wasn't even certain that he was breathing.
Riley glanced up at Jack, "Daddy are you okay?"
Jack smiled, "I've never been better. Look at your mom; isn't she beautiful?"
"She's always beautiful…" Riley responded, as he reached up and took hold of Jack's hand.
Jack looked down and caught the innocence of Riley's expression, "She sure is. We're two lucky fellas, aren't we?" Jack's eyes returned to Elizabeth, as his hand wiped away tears that fell down his cheeks.
As they reached the altar, Mr. Thatcher placed Elizabeth's hand in Jack's, "Promise me that you will love her always. No matter what happens; no matter the situation, you will always love her completely…"
Through tears that Jack couldn't seem to stop, he responded, "I will always love her, and Riley, and I'll take the best possible care of her heart, I promise you…"
As Jack and Elizabeth faced each other, he leaned in and whispered, "That's from Amazon…? Elizabeth, you are so beautiful; you take my breath away."
Through her own tears, she responded, "You're beautiful too…uh, you know what I mean," and they both softly laughed.
Forgetting that others were around, he observed resting on her chest the diamond laced gold heart necklace he'd recently given her, "I knew that necklace would be perfect against your skin… you are just so beautiful."
Reverend Culbertson leaned in and whispered, "Did you forget that we were here?"
"I'm sorry," both Elizabeth and Jack laughed softly. Hearing a clicking sound, Jack and Elizabeth turned to find Rosie taking picture after picture, doing her best to capture this special moment.
"Sorry, but I don't see a photographer here. You need pictures…"
Elizabeth smiled appreciatively, "Thank you." Turning her attention back to Jack, "WOW, how could I forget about pictures?"
Before Jack could respond, Reverend Culbertson asked, "So, should we get started…?"
"Absolutely…" Elizabeth quickly replied.
Reverend Culbertson looked out at the guests, few in numbers, but those who were the most important to both Jack and Elizabeth. "Good morning…"
"Good morning," the guests responded in unison.
Reverend Culbertson continued, "Thank you, please be seated. Today we gather to lift Jack and Elizabeth up in celebration of ever-lasting love. In the presence of their beloved family and friends, Jack and Elizabeth will pronounce their love through this ceremony and begin a lifelong journey together.
On this day, we offer gratitude for the blessings that have been bestowed upon Jack and Elizabeth. In this fast-spinning, always-changing world they have at last found peace and comfort in one another. I have known Jack and Elizabeth for years, and their love is truly a testament to their faith…I know each one has always maintained faith that they would find their other half. This ceremony is a tribute to their most unique love story and a promise of a beautiful future ahead. There are no limits that love cannot surpass, and we see that here today.
Before we begin, I would like to give this special reading from Edward Monkton.
"In that still and settled place
There's nobody but you
You're where I breathe my oxygen
You're where I see my view
And when the world feels full of noise
My heart knows what to do
It finds that still and settled place
And dances there with you."
Thank you. As we begin, we ask that every witness here today close their eyes for just a moment. Imagine your best memory of Jack and Elizabeth. To surround this couple with love and support, we ask that you offer that memory to the heavens with sentiments for a beautiful beginning to this special chapter of theirs. Please take just a moment…"
After a moment of silence and reflection, Reverend Culbertson continued, "Do these two have your blessings?"
It sounded much like a cheer, as everyone in attendance released a resounding "YES…"
Reverend Culbertson smiled as he glanced at Jack and then Elizabeth, finally settling on Riley. "I didn't ask Elizabeth if I could share this story, and actually, until recently, I don't think she had any idea that I knew." Looking back at Elizabeth, "I hope you don't mind."
Reverend Culbertson looked out into the several rows of guests, "Many months ago, a young boy stood outside his Sunday School class searching for a Godly man for his mother. He loved her so much; she was the most important person in his life, and from what he knew from his friend's families, she needed a husband to be happy."
Reverend Culbertson continued, "Upstairs, in her own Sunday School class his mother was unaware of her son's activities. To her, the most important thing in her life was her son, and love and romance wasn't on her radar.
The young boy was Riley, and of course, that would make Elizabeth, the mother. I remember walking down the hall and Riley asking me if I knew a Godly man for his mother. Although I make it a habit not to involve myself in matchmaking practices, the man I immediately thought about was Jack Thornton. So, you see, although I didn't set them up, the Lord obviously felt that they were perfect for each other and made certain that their paths crossed."
"Sorry that I digress; I just thought that was a precious story of what was apparently meant to be. Now I'm sure that Jack and Elizabeth would love for me to get back on track…" Reverend Culbertson continued. "There is nothing more romantic and sacred than standing before all those near and dear to your heart to declare your love to one another. This time-honored tradition is carried on only by those committed to a true life-long love story. I can feel that desire burning bright today."
Reverend Culbertson looked at both Jack and Elizabeth, "I'm ready to move onto the vows, did you write any?"
"Yes sir," Jack stated.
"Okay, Jack and Elizabeth would like to express their feelings in vows they've written themselves. So, Jack, why don't you go first…" Reverend Culbertson suggested.
Jack reached into his tuxedo jacket and pulled a folded piece of paper from the inside chest pocket. As he unfolded the paper, he took a deep breath, wiped his eyes and although he began by reading, he quickly handed the paper to Riley, and spoke from his heart.
"Elizabeth, the first time I saw you, I knew there was something special about you. My heart pounded and I couldn't take my eyes off you. Unfortunately, you did get away, you disappeared, and all I could think about was finding you. Although that first meeting was short, you made a deep and indelible impact on me. I thought your name was Becky, and I searched but couldn't find you. Little did I know you were practically under my nose the entire time, related to a close friend of mine, and mother to a boy who tugged at my heart when we first met.
I was drawn to you the first time I saw you, and after we officially met, your warm and inviting eyes and your magnetic smile easily had me making up reasons to see you and talk to you. To see you beam that amazing smile back at me immediately put me at ease and brightened my day. I love that we started out as friends. You truly saw me; you understand me, and you accept me in a way that I believe no one else can. You are my best friend; you are not only the person I want beside me through the unexpected trials, tribulations and joys of life, but you are the one person who I know for a fact that I cannot live without."
Hearing the last statement of Jack's vows, Riley suddenly felt expendable. Reaching up, he tugged on the hem of Jack's jacket, "What about me…?"
Everyone laughed softly as Jack knelt down. Eye level with Riley, he stated, "You are extremely important to me, and I can't live without you either. Riley, I promise to always be there for you whenever you need someone. Whether you need a coach, a dad, or just a friend, anything you need, you can always count on me." Jack again lost control of his tears. He wiped his eyes for what seemed like the umpteenth time today before continuing. "I love you Riley. I may not have had the honor of helping to give you the gift of life, but life sure has given me the gift of you. You will always be my son, and I will love you forever."
Riley practically leapt into Jack's arms with his own arms wrapping around Jack's neck as they held each other close. "I'm so glad that you're going to be my daddy…"
Before they could return to the ceremony, Riley, unconcerned by the several rows of guests in attendance turned to Martin and Catherine. "I'm sorry that I don't remember my real daddy, but mommy tells me all the time that he was a wonderful daddy to me."
Elizabeth put her hand on Riley's back trying her best to calm her crying child.
Riley's explosion of emotion couldn't be quieted. "My real daddy isn't here anymore, and I know you're sad, but I need Mr. Jack, so is it okay with you if he's my daddy now?"
Catherine stood up and walked over to Riley where she knelt down in front of him. With everyone in tears she softly responded, "I'm so sorry for everything I said. I was wrong, and I certainly didn't act the way your daddy would have expected. I'm sure Mr. Jack is a wonderful man, and your daddy is smiling down on you…all of you, today," she kissed Riley's cheek before returning to her seat, whispering "I'm sorry" to Elizabeth as she passed by.
Riley turned his attention back to Jack, "I love you daddy, and grandma said it's okay…"
Jack squatted down as Riley rushed back into his arms, "I love you, buddy," Jack responded as he kissed the top of Riley's head before standing up to resume the ceremony.
With Elizabeth, Jack, Riley, Mary, Reverend Culbertson, and every one of the seated guests in tears, Reverend Culbertson suggested, "Let's take a moment to reflect on those beautiful words before we continue." Seeing Elizabeth's appreciative glance, he whispered, "Just let me know when you're ready."
After a few moments, Elizabeth looked to Reverend Culbertson and smiled. Not that she had vows running through her head, but she decided to focus solely on Jack, and do as he suggested…speak from her heart.
"Before we first met…and I mean through Riley's basketball, not at the restaurant, I was taken by how genuine you were with Riley. I watched from a distance as you spent time with him, and your kindness touched my heart. The more I got to know you the more I felt that I couldn't live without you. So, my dearest Jack when you walked into my life, love walked in, too.
Jack, I promise to have the patience that relationships demand, to speak when words are needed, but to share with you in the silence when they are not. I vow to be giving, and forgiving; to make you laugh, and although this is one hard for me, I promise not to take everything so seriously and to occasionally laugh at myself. I promise to love you always, to be your hearth and to forever keep a flame alive for you in my heart. From Becky to me to eternity, you will always be my one and only…"
Reverend Culbertson continued the ceremony, "Jonathan Andrew…Jack, do you take Elizabeth to be your lawfully wedded wife; do you promise to respect, comfort and keep her, in sickness and in health, to cherish her, and forsaking all others, to be faithful to her alone?"
Jack quickly and happily responded, "I do."
Reverend Culbertson turned to Elizabeth, "Elizabeth Grace, do you take Jack to be your lawfully wedded husband; do you promise to respect, comfort and keep him, in sickness and in health, to cherish him, and forsaking all others, to be faithful to him alone?"
Elizabeth just as quickly and happily responded, "I do."
Reverend Culbertson continued, "Jack and Elizabeth, as you exchange your rings today, you are also reinforcing your faithful commitment to trust, love, and romance. Each ring serves as a constant reminder that you are loved. Your beloved is giving you the most precious gift on Earth through love."
"Jack," Reverend Culbertson waited as Riley dug through his left pocket. Looking mortified, he glanced up at Jack…
"It's in the other pocket," Jack reminded him.
Riley finally pulled out the ring and handed it to Jack.
Reverend Culbertson continued, "Place the ring on Elizabeth's finger and repeat after me…with this ring, I thee wed."
"Elizabeth," Jack's hand shook slightly, "With this ring, I thee wed."
Elizabeth took Jack's ring from Mary.
"Elizabeth, place the ring on Jack's finger and repeat after me…with this ring, I thee wed."
Before Elizabeth could comply, Riley spoke up, "Please mommy, hurry up. It's not ficial till you do it…"
Elizabeth smiled, Out of the mouth of Babes, right…"
Jack laughed softly as he reached down and took hold of Riley's hand.
"Jack, with this ring, I thee wed."
With the vows completed and the rings exchanged, Reverend Culbertson continued, "By the power vested in me by the State of Illinois, before your families and your friends, I now pronounce you lawfully and spiritually united. You may now kiss your bride."
Jack certainly didn't need to be told twice. His lips met hers, and although the passion was contained due to the guests in attendance, there was both a familiarity, and a sense of a new beginning in their touch.
"I love you, Mrs. Thornton…"
"I love you too…"
"Ladies and gentlemen, it is my great honor to introduce to you for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Thornton," Reverend Culbertson announced as Jack and Elizabeth each held one of Riley's hands and their family started back down the aisle, stopping to hug and kiss their parents.
As Jack, Elizabeth and Riley stood at the end of the aisle, friends and family approached to wish them well. Lee and Rosie were one of the first to offer their congratulations. Jacob Sperling, Mr. Thatcher's personal lawyer approached, "I filed the paperwork yesterday, and was assured by Judge Carter's clerk that she would have him review it first thing on Monday."
"I thought you had to wait until after the ceremony to file it," Jack asked.
"Well, I probably should have, but if I had waited until Monday, it would be Tuesday or Wednesday before the judge reviewed it. Mr. Thatcher told me how important this is to you both, so I'm hoping to have everything done when you get back from your honeymoon."
Jack stepped closer and spoke softly hoping not to upset Elizabeth, "Is it legal? I mean, yesterday Elizabeth's last name was Thatcher, so if you listed her as Thornton, does that null and void the paperwork?"
"Jack, what are you talking about?" Elizabeth asked.
Mr. Sperling interrupted, "I should have prefaced everything by saying that Judge Carter's clerk is my wife. So, I gave her the paperwork on Friday which lists your new married name, but my wife will put it on his desk the first thing on Monday morning, and she'll see to it that he reviews it before getting any other correspondence."
Jack stuck out his arm and shook Mr. Sperling's hand, "Elizabeth and I are very grateful to you for everything."
Feeling a tug on his jacket, Jack looked down and observed Riley with an inquisitive expression, "Is something wrong?
Are you in trouble, daddy?"
"No, why do you ask?"
"Because the man was talking about a judge, did we do something wrong?"
Jack squatted down; eye level with Riley, he responded, "No, we've done everything right. He's filed the paperwork for the adoption, so hopefully before long you will be a Thornton, just like your mom."
The guests mingled as the violinist played and the cake and other refreshments were delivered and set up.
Elizabeth was thankful to Mary, whose childhood friend, Sheri was the owner of a local bakery. Sherri quickly and happily prepared a five-tier wedding cake with white icing. The cake had pink roses cascading in a bending line from the top down to the bottom tier, where it wrapped around the largest layer. A few individual pink roses were strategically placed on various ledges between the tiers, giving the delicious masterpiece a delicate and romantic appearance.
Elizabeth caught a glimpse of the side gate as two workers with a cart on wheels carried the cake into the backyard and she held her breath. Once they safely reached their destination, the beautifully decorated dessert was placed on a table by itself.
Several tables were set out for the guests, and each one was decorated with a white corrugated thick plastic cylinder which held bright pink and soft pink paper napkins twisted to form the shape of roses. The place settings consisted of a real pink rose sitting atop a napkin on a white plate.
Nearby, another table held three drink dispensers which contained tea, orange juice and fruit punch, while directly beside it was a coffee station for those in need of the morning caffeine jolt. Also available was a cheese and cracker platter, pre-made yogurt and fresh fruit parfaits, vegetable cups, and fruit filled martini glasses with salt rims.
As Riley socialized with his grandparents, Elizabeth pulled Jack aside, "The music was beautiful, Jack. Where did you find that song?"
"Well, you know you can find all sorts of things on the internet," Jack replied. "Speaking of the internet, I need to talk to you…"
"Is something wrong?" she asked.
Before Jack could respond and explain the internet mix-up regarding their Maldives reservation, Rosie called everyone over. "I know this was put together quickly and you don't have a real photographer, but I'd like to get some pictures of the wedding party," she directed everyone over by the altar.
Following the taking of pictures, many of which contained an ecstatic and difficult to contain Riley, it was time to move on with the reception and specialty dances. Jack took Elizabeth's hand…
"Wait Jack, we didn't pick anything," she whispered as her carefree, blissful expression suddenly changed.
"Don't worry; you had so much to take care of. I think you'll be happy with my selection…" Jack stated as he took her hand and led her out onto the concrete pad at one end of the pool.
Lee stepped into the house and popped "I Choose You," by Sara Bareilles into the stereo system, piping the music into the backyard.
Let the bough break, let it come down crashing
Let the sun fade out to a dark sky
I can't say I'd even notice it was absent
'Cause I could live by the light in your eyes
I'll unfold before you
Would have strung together
The very first words of a lifelong love letter
Tell the world that we finally got it all right
I choose you
I will become yours and you will become mine
I choose you
I choose you, yeah
Seeing Riley looking somewhat dejected seated in a chair nearby, Jack sprinted over, grabbed him, and as a family they danced the remainder of the song together.
There was a time when I would have believed them
If they told me that you could not come true
Just love's illusion
But then you found me
And everything changed
And I believe in something again
My whole heart
Will be yours forever
This is a beautiful start
To a lifelong love letter
Tell the world that we finally got it all right
I choose you
I will become yours and you will become mine
I choose you
I choose you
We are not perfect we'll learn from our mistakes
And as long as it takes I will prove my love to you
I am not scared of the elements I am underprepared,
But I am willing
And even better
I get to be the other half of you
Tell the world that we finally got it all right
I choose you, yeah
I will become yours and you will become mine
I choose you
I choose you
I choose you
As this song ended, Lee popped in "Cinderella" by Steven Chapman, a CD handed to him by Elizabeth's mother, and Mr. Thatcher took his daughter's hand and stepped onto the concrete dance floor.
She spins and she sways
To whatever song plays
Without a care in the world
And I'm sitting here wearing
The weight of the world on my shoulders
It's been a long day
And there's still work to do
She's pulling at me saying
"Dad, I need you
There's a ball at the castle
And I've been invited
And I need to practice my dancing
Oh, please, Daddy, please"
So I will dance with Cinderella
While she is here in my arms
Cause I know something the prince never knew
Oh, I will dance with Cinderella
I don't wanna miss even one song
'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone
She says he's a nice guy and I'd be impressed
She wants to know if I approve of her dress
She says,
"Dad, the prom is just one week away
And I need to practice my dancing
Oh, please, Daddy, please?"
So I will dance with Cinderella
While she is here in my arms
'Cause I know something the prince never knew
Oh, I will dance with Cinderella
I don't wanna miss even one song
Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone
She will be gone
Well, she came home today with a ring on her hand
Just glowing and telling us all they had planned
She says,
"Dad, the wedding's still six months away
But I need to practice my dancing
Oh, please, Daddy, please?"
So I will dance with Cinderella
While she is here in my arms
Cause I know something the prince never knew
Oh, I will dance with Cinderella
I don't wanna miss even one song
'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone
After a short break, Jack took a CD that his mother brought with her and he handed it to Lee. Unaware of the song she picked, he took his mother's hand and led her to the dance floor as the song, "Seems Like Yesterday" by Melissa Smith, began playing through the stereo system.
It really seems like yesterday, I held you in my arms
A day I'll cherish when I became your mom
I brought with me a pink and blue and put the blue one on
Said, thank you Jesus for my precious little one.
I knew you were a priceless gift that God had given me
But this gift that was given came with responsibility
The love you and teach you and pray your heart would be
Molding to the One who created you for His glory.
And so began the journey from a little boy to a young man
Once so close by his mama's side, now on his own he stands
Once so sweet I heard that little voice as we'd walk hand in hand
Now the years have passed, he's all grown up, my little boy's become a man.
It really seems like yesterday but now I'm looking up at you
With that handsome smile that melts my heart, like that little boy I knew
What a thrill it's been to watch you grow, every victory, every fall
I thank Jesus He chose me to share it all.
In this new chapter of your life, as you marry your best friend
I thank God for who he chose for you and pray your love will have no end.
Cherish what he's given you, understand her and be kind
Together love your God with all your heart and mind.
And what a joy the journey's been, the sweet memories I recall
Every day since you came into my life, I treasure them all.
And though at times I wish I could go back to when you were my little one
I thank God for who you are today, and for all you will become.
It really seems like yesterday, I stared in awe that you were mine
As I held your tiny hand, kissed your sweet head a thousand times.
The time has come and now you have her hand to hold on to
But I thank God for this journey I've shared with you.
As Jack and Elizabeth stood over at the pool listening to the violinist and enjoying the beautiful flowers floating in the water, Elizabeth observed Riley sitting alone, his head down, and staring at the grass.
Elizabeth drew Jack's attention to Riley and asked, "There's a CD on the kitchen counter. It's Stevie Wonder singing "You Are the Sunshine of My Life." Will you do me a favor and put it in the player so I can dance with him. I think he's feeling lonely…"
Elizabeth walked across the yard and stood in front of Riley with her hand out, "Excuse me, but I'd really love to dance with my son."
"Really, you want to dance with me?"
"Well, next to my own father, you are the first boy I ever loved. Will you dance with me?"
"Will I ever…" the smile returned to his face as he took her hand and they walked over to the pool. As everyone watched, and cried, both Elizabeth and Riley danced, feeling the love they had for each other and the moment that was changing both of their lives.
You are the sunshine of my life
That's why I'll always be around
You are the apple of my eye
Forever you'll stay in my heart
I feel like this is the beginning
Though I've loved you for a million years
And if I thought our love was ending
I'd find myself drowning in my own tears
You are the sunshine of my life, yeah
That's why I'll always stay around, yeah, yeah
You are the apple of my eye
Forever you'll stay in my heart
You must have known that I was lonely
Because you came to my rescue
And I know that this must be Heaven
How could so much love be inside of you?
You are the sunshine of my life, yeah
That's why I'll always stay around
You are the apple of my eye
Forever you'll stay in my heart, yeah
You are the sunshine of my life, baby
That's why I'll always stay around
As the song ended, Riley asked permission to check out the food tables. With permission received from both parents, Riley happily disappeared with a plate in his hand, looking to load it up with goodies.
With the violinist playing, the guests snacked and mingled as Jack and Elizabeth prepared to cut the cake. Standing slightly behind her, Jack's right hand covered hers on the knife handle, as his left hand rested along her waist on the slope of her hip. Although he knew that he needed to tell her about the change in honeymoon plans, right now, all he could think about was getting her alone, making love to her, and the location wasn't of a great consequence to him. He prayed that she'd feel the same way.
The guests put down their plates and stood around the table to cheer on the new couple, as Rosie stood primed and ready, camera in hand, to catch each of them smashing cake into the other's face.
The knife slid effortlessly through the moist cake as Jack and Elizabeth intentionally cut small pieces to feed each other.
"You aren't going to smash it into my face, are you?" Elizabeth whispered.
"Well, that depends…"
"Depends on what?"
"Whether you intend to smash it into my face."
"Jack," she leaned in and whispered, "You are already sweet enough. You don't need cake in your face. So, no I won't do that to you."
To Rosie's dismay, both Jack and Elizabeth slowly and carefully fed the other. Jack leaned in and tenderly kissed her lips, effectively wiping away any remnants of the dessert.
Elizabeth stepped inside and grabbed To-Go containers, returning to the backyard where she sat them on the table. "Please come and help yourself. We'll be out of the country for a week, so this food doesn't need to go to waste."
"Honey I need to talk to you…" Jack seemed somewhat insistent.
Assuming that it had to do with them "being together," Elizabeth responded, "I'll be right back, as she removed the top tier off of the wedding cake.
"Honey, I really do need to talk to you," Jack responded.
Elizabeth leaned in and kissed him, "I have a surprise for you and I think you're really gonna like it," she whispered as she walked away, carrying the cake to secure in their freezer to be eaten on their first wedding anniversary.
He released a frustrated breath before whispering, "I have a surprise too, but I'm not sure you'll like mine."
Elizabeth quickly returned, took Jack by the hand and they walked together away from the guests.
"I need to tell you something," Jack stated.
"I'm not saying that what I need to tell you is more important, but I think you're really going to like mine. May I go first?"
Having no idea that she was about to make one of his fantasies come true, he stated, "Ladies first…"
Leaning against his body, her lips made soft contact with his ear, as her warm breath placed every one of his nerve endings in high alert. "I've been thinking…I'm sure that Jennifer's jet is decked out with a very comfortable bedroom, and since we have a 19-hour flight to Maldives, well I guess longer for refueling, I was thinking that maybe…"
Although the words weren't spoken, all Jack heard was "Mile High Club."
"What's wrong; I thought you'd be…well, excited…"
"Oh, you have no idea, but I have to tell you something."
"Jack, if you don't want to, it's fine," she stated assuming that maybe he was beginning to feel self-conscious about making love so close to the pilot and flight attendant on the jet, even though they'd have a private room. "I just thought you wanted to, but really I think it will be better to wait until we get to…"
"Nags Head, North Carolina…" he quietly blurted out.
"Excuse me…?"
"Elizabeth, I'm so sorry. There was a problem with the reservation; something about being over-booked, and I tried to get us somewhere tropical, but it looks like Nags Head, North Carolina is where it will be," he hesitantly responded. Quietly he awaited her response.
The smile that covered her face wasn't what he expected.
"Jockey's Ridge, the Wright Brother's Memorial, and the wild horses of Corolla… Jack, we can go to Maldives another time. This will be wonderful, and like I told you before, I just want to spend time alone with you," she replied.
"Are you sure?"
"I just married the most incredible man who is already trying to make my dreams come true. Don't you know, you've already done that? I love you so much, Jack Thornton." She smiled slyly, "But, the flight is going to be much shorter, so I hope you don't mind, but the Mile-High Club offer is off the table at this point."
"I understand, but maybe some time I can get Jennifer's jet again and we can fly to Miami, or LA, or Cancun; those are bound to be a few hours longer. Do you think maybe we could revisit the possibility?"
"Anything is possible, but just don't hold your breath…" Elizabeth pressed her soft lips to his. Leaning back, she whispered, "But then again, your birthday is coming up soon."
To be continued…
Next Chapter- The Honeymoon!