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 8- Holiday Magic
The following morning, Elizabeth and Cruise were up early. Elizabeth slipped into a pair of stonewash jeans, a white tank top, jacket and tennis shoes. She headed down the hallway, stopping at Jack's door. Wrongly assuming that he was still asleep, she continued downstairs and outside to take Cruise for a walk.
With Cruise's business done, they walked out onto the dock. Enjoying the feel of the early morning sun on her face, she removed her jacket and took a seat at the end of the dock, allowing her feet to dangle just about the water line. With her arm around Cruise's body, she began to talk as if he were listening and understanding.
"We're going home, and you get to see Audrey," Elizabeth stated as Cruise's tail wagged vigorously at the mention of Audrey's name.
Hearing footsteps behind them, Elizabeth turned around, releasing her hold on Cruise as he made a mad dash down the long dock and leapt into Jack's arms.
"WHOA," Jack called out as the speed and force at which Cruise hit him nearly knocked him over.
"I'm sorry; he's just so happy that you're here," Elizabeth stated as Jack took a seat beside her.
"I hope he's not the only one," Jack responded as he reached over and slipped his arm around her waist.
Elizabeth smiled, leaning her body against his, she rested her head on his shoulder, "I'm very happy that you're here; I'm just sorry that…"
Jack's finger touched her lips, immediately quieting her, "We don't need to talk about that. Besides, you believe me, and you know how I feel about you, so all in all, I think it was a very productive trip."
"But if I hadn't left…"
"Shhh," he whispered before his lips covered hers, silencing her as her hands walked up his strong arms. Slipping her hands around his shoulders, her fingers began to feather through the hair on the back of his neck.
He held her close as they stared out over the water. "Elizabeth, do you want to spend Christmas with your parents?"
"What…? I thought we were going home."
"Well, I do have flight reservations for us and Cruise, but…"
"But what, Jack? You don't want to spend Christmas with me?"
"No…I mean, yes, I do, and if you want to spend it here, I'll fly back so we can be together. I just don't want to take you away from your parents if you'd rather spend the holidays here."
"Jack, that's sweet of you to think of my feelings, but to be totally honest with you…" she started as the smile on her face and twinkle in her eyes was infectious with Jack returning the expression.
"I'm happy to do whatever you'd like…" Jack whispered as his glance moved between her eyes and her soft, full lips.
Elizabeth softly pressed her lips to his, as his hand behind her head held her close, deepening their connection.
"Jack, the truth is, I've never seen snow, let alone spent a white Christmas anywhere. So, I'm hoping that I'll have a better chance for a white Christmas up in the Cape. And well, I want to spend Christmas with you…just you."
His smile continued, "Well, I can't lie; no matter where we are, I'm just excited about spending the holidays with you. But, if snow is what you're hoping to see, I'm quite sure you'll get your wish…I can't remember a Christmas without snow on the Cape."
"Thank you…" she responded.
"Honey, I don't have any control over the snow," he released a soft laugh, "But, you're welcome."
"I'm not thanking you for the snow, or rather the possibility thereof. I just want you to know that I appreciate you coming all the way down here and being willing to turn your plans around for me," Elizabeth stated before turning her body to face him, "You're a very special guy, Jack Thornton."
His face blushed, "Well, I don't know about that."
"Accept the compliment, Jack, because it is well deserved," she leaned in as her mouth eagerly covered his lips.
Jack's hand around the back of her head held her close. The kiss was warm, wet and welcomed.
"What time is our flight?" she asked.
"3:30 this afternoon; is that okay?" he replied.
"Perfect…"
Jack and Elizabeth walked hand in hand around the grounds before heading back to the house to gather their things.
Standing in the entryway, Elizabeth hugged her mother. "Thank you for the talk. You have no idea the impact it had on me…on me letting him back in, and I love you so much."
Stepping away from the men, Mrs. Thatcher softly responded, "Honey, you would have come to the same conclusion at some point."
"But it may have been too late." Elizabeth glanced over to see her father and Jack talking. "Mom, I almost threw away the best man I know because of my pride, and hurt feelings… I mean, best man, excluding daddy, of course."
"I know what you mean, honey, and from what I've seen, Jack is quite the young man. I'm so glad you two worked out your issues," her mother stepped in and hugged Elizabeth once more. "I'm…I mean, we're going to miss you, but I understand you wanting to spend Christmas with Jack."
"I'm hoping to see snow…" Elizabeth responded.
"Elizabeth, you've seen snow before."
"When, I don't remember."
"That Christmas when we flew out to Wyoming to visit your grandma and grandpa Thatcher. Don't you remember?"
"No ma'am; if I remembered then I wouldn't say I've never seen snow. When was this?"
"Oh, it had to be back…hmm, maybe, oh wait, no it wasn't Christmas, it was that time your dad and I went to a convention, and you stayed with my parents. We saw the snow in Colorado. You and your sisters were in Florida…sorry, no snow there."
"Jack said that they always have snow at Christmas, so maybe this will be my year," Elizabeth stated as they walked back toward the men and she took hold of Jack's hand. "I guess we should get going."
She released Jack's hand long enough to hug her father, before they walked outside, loaded up the cars, and waved goodbye as Jack followed Elizabeth out of the driveway.
Once at the airport, they checked in and Jack took Cruise with him while Elizabeth grabbed two coffees and waited at the gate.
With Cruise safely tucked away in the pet baggage waiting area, Jack headed to Gate A3. He walked into the seating area and found Elizabeth pacing back and forth in front of the window as she watched her beloved companion loaded onto the plane.
"Are you okay?" he asked as he approached and observed her wiping her eyes.
"Do you think he'll be okay?" Elizabeth asked.
"He'll be fine; he was already sleeping when I left him," Jack replied.
Jack put his arm around her waist and pulled her close as they watched the cargo door close. Taking her hand, he led her to their seats while they awaited the boarding announcement.
"Group 1, you may now board," the announcement was loud and clear.
"What group are we in?" Elizabeth asked.
Looking at their boarding passes, Jack jumped up, "Oh, we're in Group 2."
"Group 2…Group 2, you may now board…"
Jack presented both boarding passes and then took hold of her hand as they walked down the long air bridge to American Airlines #4705 for their direct flight home to Logan International Airport.
Once they settled in their seats, Elizabeth asked, "Should I call Rosie and get her to pick us up at the airport?"
"Why? I have my truck…"
"You left your truck parked there? That could cost you a fortune; well, depending on how long you were away. That's why I took an Uber…"
"I wasn't thinking about that; all I wanted to do was get to you…"
"Jack…"
He leaned over and covered her lips with his, "We're not talking about what happened and what's her name anymore. She's out of our lives."
"Are you sure, Jack?"
"I told her that I didn't want to see her again, that I was done…"
"Kinda like I told you that we were done, and we aren't?"
"Don't remind me. That was a hard conversation. I am done with her, and I don't ever expect to see her again."
"Jack, the Cape isn't like living in New York City; you are bound to cross paths at some point."
"Well, I'm still done…" he stated as he brought her hand up to his lips.
"I believe you; I'm just not sure that she does," Elizabeth stated as she rested her head on his shoulder.
As the jet raced down the runway, Elizabeth closed her eyes and gripped Jack's arm, refusing to let go until he leaned over and whispered, "We're in the air, but if you feel better, grip away…"
"I'm so sorry, Jack. Flying has always been the easy way to travel, but I've never gotten used to take-offs," Elizabeth replied, easing up slightly on the hold she maintained on his arm.
An hour later, due to turbulence, the seatbelt light was lit. Elizabeth was sound asleep, so Jack carefully leaned over, snapped her seatbelt before his own, and she returned her head to his shoulder, never once opening her eyes.
An hour and a half later, the landing gear was deployed and American Airlines flight #4705 was coming in for a landing.
The jolt of the wheels hitting the tarmac jostled her awake, "We're home?" she sleepily asked.
"Yes…you are home; here, with me, where you belong…"
Elizabeth looked up, leaned in and covered his lips with hers, "This is my home now, Jack. I do honestly believe that…I love you."
His smile was bright and broad, and his dimples were deep, "I love you too, honey," and as the plane came to a stop at the air bridge, he continued, "Let's go get our boy!"
They walked hand in hand to the pet baggage area. Elizabeth waited outside while Jack went into the small room to retrieve Cruise. When the door opened, Cruise was on a leash, leading Jack as he pulled the crate behind him.
Elizabeth opened her arms and Cruise rushed to her, nearly knocking her to the ground. Glancing at Jack she stated, "Maybe we should work on patience when we get home."
"Audrey could use some work in that area as well," Jack mentioned as he placed both overnight bags on top of the crate and wheeled it behind him.
With Elizabeth holding Cruise's leash in one hand, and Jack's hand in the other, they happily walked out of the airport and to his awaiting truck.
Jack slid the crate into the back of his truck, hoisted Cruise into the cab and then turned his attention to Elizabeth. With her back against the passenger side door, he asked, "Have I told you today that I love you?"
"Yes, I believe that you have."
"It bears repeating," he whispered. Jack stepped closer and pressed his body against hers. His glance moved between her ocean blue eyes, and her blush, ripe for picking, lips. Though it was cold outside, the moment their lips touched, a feeling a warmth spread through them.
With Christmas just around the corner, work for both Jack and Elizabeth slowed, but much to their disappointment, only slightly. Their days were still tied up with menial business tasks, while Jack's mind was on Elizabeth, and hers was consistently on him.
Elizabeth did manage to meet with Becky Haversham, during which time she received her personal apology, signed the necessary paperwork to stage her second property, and was around for an over the asking price bidding war, all before the 16th of December and the closing of her office for the holidays.
Jack's office didn't officially close until two days later, celebrating with a joint casual party with the staff from "Life's a Stage," and many of their clients, which seemed quite appropriate given that the principals in both companies were coupled together.
Since Jack was running late, he made plans with Elizabeth to meet at Alberto's Ristorante at 6PM, with most of the employees and clients, and their guests scheduled to arrive at 6:30.
Hoping to pleasantly surprise Jack, Elizabeth walked into TC Construction dressed in a pair of black slim fit dress trousers, and a red shirt with pleated bodice, six buttons from the middle of the scoop neckline down to the waist, ¾ length sleeves that bloused out at the elbows, and displayed multiple prints of Santa along the hemline and sleeves.
Finding the waiting area empty, Elizabeth slipped down the hall, walking toward Jack's half opened door. Hearing his voice inside, she stopped, not wanting to interrupt him.
Assuming it was a business call, she figured that it would be completed momentarily. The call, or at least what she could hear, quickly moved from the house that the company recently finished to that evening's Christmas party.
Elizabeth started to knock when she heard Jack say, "Mom, I called and invited you to the party. Tom said he was bringing you; you are coming, aren't you?"
Jack was quiet, until he blurted out, "Yes, you were my date last year, but this year I have a date…"
Jack listened as his mother spoke, finally responding, "Mom, I'm not hiding her; I just don't want to spring too much on her at one time…she's really special."
"Why are you laughing?" Jack asked his mother. Listening to her response, he added, "Yes, I remember you telling me that Gabby wasn't the one."
"Okay, okay, neither was Amber, Katie, or Melissa, what's your point; why are you still laughing?"
Jack was silent. After a few moments he replied, "Yes ma'am you were right; when I least expected it, she would come along, which she did. She's so special, mom, and I want you to be nice to her tonight…please."
Assuming he was alone in the office, Jack pressed "speaker," setting his phone down on the desk, as he sat in his chair, his framed picture of he and Elizabeth together in his hand and a broad smile on his face.
"Jack, why am I just hearing about your young lady?"
"Mom, her name is Elizabeth Thatcher, and she works with Rosie in the staging business."
"That sounds nice; how long have you two been seeing each other?"
"We met over Memorial Day…"
"And I'm just now hearing about her?" Charlotte replied. Continuing on, she asked, "Jack, when you dated other women, you introduced me to them."
"And what did you always tell me?"
"Honey, those women weren't right for you. You know what?"
"What…?"
"I think you knew they weren't right for you and you just wanted me to confirm it for you."
"Mom, I've always appreciated your opinion, and I guess that's why I didn't date them for long."
"Well, Gabby was like a relative who overstayed her welcome. I felt such relief when you two split up. So, what's Lizzie like?"
"Well, first of all, her name is Elizabeth, but mom, she is different, nothing like Gabby; she's special, and I…"
"You haven't introduced me to her because you don't want me to tell you that she's not right for you."
"Mom, I love you and I really do value your opinion, but I need you to know that I care a lot about Elizabeth."
"Jack, that's all that matters, and if you want, I'll keep my opinion to myself."
"Well, I'm thinking that would be a first…" Jack released a hard breath.
"So, are you going to tell me how you really feel about her, or do I need to pull it out of you?"
"Mom, I said she was very special to me."
"Honey, special like Audrey, or special like I may one day soon have grandchildren?"
"MOM…"
"Jack, do you remember when you first started dating and you swore that every girl was "the one…?"
"I remember; it didn't take me long to realize that they were nice, but certainly not "the one."
"And what did your father and I tell you over and over again?"
"You always said, 'When you get older, and know what you want in life, that special someone will come along, and you'll know that she's the one,'" Jack seemed to remember the comment practically word for word, as she and his father had recited it to both him and Tom many times through the years. "When I was in high school, I wasn't so sure that I believed you; I mean, every girl seemed like the one. I guess I was just young and stupid, and I kinda thought you were crazy. But the girls I dated in college, well I think I knew they would only be friends, I never really felt that spark with them. Mom, when I met Elizabeth, I knew it from the moment our eyes met…she's the one, and I would like your opinion, because to be honest, I know you'll love her too."
"Well, I have to say that I haven't heard such enthusiasm in your voice when talking about a woman in quite a long time, and now that I think about it, I don't think I've ever heard you sound so happy and excited before. So, if this young lady…"
"Elizabeth, mom…her name is Elizabeth Thatcher."
"I know, honey, I was just saying that if she makes you this happy, then I'm all for the relationship. And I know that I'll love her too."
"Thanks mom; I need to get ready for the party, but I assume I'll see you tonight?"
"Yes, of course, but I just have one question…"
"Okay mom, what is it?"
"You never answered my question before; am I looking at having a grandchild sometime soon?"
As Jack practically fell backwards in his desk chair, Elizabeth lost her balance and fell into his door, barely staying on her feet as her hand grabbed for the handle on her way into the office.
"Mom, I have to go…" Jack stated as he quickly ended the call.
"Jack, I'm so sorry; I didn't mean to eavesdrop," Elizabeth stated as she stumbled while gaining her footing. "I'll go and just meet you there."
"No, wait…Let me explain."
"Jack, you don't need to explain anything. I know how mothers can be, remember, I have one too."
"Elizabeth, how much did you hear?"
"Uh…"
"I'm sorry; don't let her talk about grandkids throw you for a loop."
"Grandkids…? I didn't hear anything about grandkids, I was more focused on her not liking any of your previous girlfriends."
Feeling quite confident, Jack smiled and released a cleansing breath, "You have nothing to worry about. My mom's going to love you…"
Elizabeth could feel her legs wobble, "Hey, why don't I let you spend the evening with your mom and brother, and I'll just meet them another time."
"What…? No, you don't have to worry about my mom, she's great, and besides, it's a joint Christmas party; you have to be there," he reminded her. "Are you afraid to meet my mom?"
"Oh, like you weren't afraid to meet my parents."
"Well, if I recall correctly, I was thrown off by where you lived, not by meeting your parents," he stepped closer. "I'm quite charming, in case you haven't noticed," he stated, his voice softening to a whisper as he closed the distance between them.
Jack leaned closer as their eyes met and she whispered, "Oh, I've noticed."
With her back against the wall, and his hands on either side of her head, the vision of this scene with Gabby in her place was nowhere in her mind. She could see the desire in his eyes, and it was easy to tell that she was who he wanted…Gabby never entered his thoughts.
Elizabeth could feel his warm breath as it swept passed her neck. The feeling of butterflies fluttered in her stomach, a feeling that was unfamiliar to her until she met Jack.
Elizabeth could feel his body pressed against hers, holding her still, keeping her from slipping away, but in her mind he didn't need to hold her there, for she had no plans to move.
"Shouldn't you get ready?" she whispered as his lips moved closer to hers.
"Maybe…but I have something else on my mind."
As her glance moved between his eyes and lips, she breathlessly responded, "Oh, what would that be?"
His right hand released the wall and rested along her jawline as his thumb caressed her cheek. Whispering, "E-liz-a-beth, I love you," his voice was soft, and romantic, and she could feel her knees wobble as his lips captured hers.
In that kiss, that one sweet, passion driven kiss, were millions of loving thoughts all condensed into a single moment… all expressed without a single word.
Jack rested his forehead against hers, "I love you, Elizabeth Thatcher. Thank you for coming home for Christmas."
Elizabeth leaned her head back against the wall, she took a breath and smiled, "This is my home, Jack. Besides, I'm hoping to see the snow fall on Christmas morning."
"I hope that the snow isn't the only reason you came home," Jack remarked as his mouth frowned.
"Well. If I'm being honest…" she giggled.
Before she could finish her comment, his lips covered hers again and again, each subsequent kiss becoming more passionate than the one before as they easily melted, one into the other.
"If we keep this up, we'll never make it to the party," she breathlessly responded.
"Would that be such a bad thing?" he released a soft laugh. "Oh wait, I need to be there."
Assuming that he was referring to his mother being present, she replied, "I know you need to get ready; do you want me to meet you there?"
Following a peck on her cheek, he responded, "No, I have my clothes here, so I'll be ready in a few minutes."
"Okay, I'll wait for you outside…" she stated as she turned away and opened the door.
Taking hold of her arm he turned her around to face him. She could feel the heat from his smoldering eyes as his glance left her feeling practically naked. Her lips separated as her eyes caught his and refused to look away.
Elizabeth was thankful that breathing was involuntary, as she wasn't certain how oxygen was getting into her lungs. For if it were up to her, she would forget to inhale and the room around her would certainly go dark.
All she could think about were his gorgeous hazel eyes that seemed to look deep into her soul, and his firm lips, which always seemed to know when hers were begging to be touched.
"What…?" she asked as he simply stared in her direction.
"I just love you, and don't worry about meeting my mom…"
"Oh great, thank you, I had almost forgotten. Thanks for reminding m…"
His lips, firm and warm, pressed gently against hers, immediately sending her mind into a sensual state of intoxication.
"Don't worry about it," Jack whispered as he slowly stepped away.
"Worry about what?" Elizabeth asked, having completely forgotten what had occupied her mind only moments ago.
"Nothing honey," Jack stated as he opened the office door fully and she stepped out into the hallway. "I'll be with you in just a few minutes."
Jack watched her walk down the hall, mesmerized by the way she walked, her hips subtly sashaying from side to side. "You are going to be the death of me…" he whispered before turning back into his office and closing the door, "But what a way to go…"
Ten minutes later, Jack walked down the hall wearing a pair of black jeans, a black t-shirt and a heather grey sport coat, and carrying a Santa Claus suit.
"What's that?" she asked.
"It's my year to play Santa to the kids of the employees," he responded as they walked outside and locked up the building. "This is why I have to be there."
"Hmm" she smiled, "Do you need an elf?"
"I do, but Jimmy Clark is dating someone, and she said she'd be the elf," he advised, disappointed that the role would be handled by someone other than Elizabeth.
"Who's Jimmy; have I met him before?"
"No, I don't think so. He moved from another company that was out in Provincetown. The daily drive was killing him."
The restaurant parking lot was already quite full when Jack pulled in and parked. He took Elizabeth's hand and they walked together toward the entrance. They were ushered to the beautifully decorated meeting room, where Lee and Rosie were greeting the early arrivals and directing them to the bar, in the case of singles or couples without children, and to tables and the game area for all others.
By 6:45, the area was packed, leaving Jack to inquire about the possibility of opening the divider to the adjoining room.
With one room decorated for Christmas, and the other simply providing chairs and tables for overflow seating, Elizabeth stayed fairly close to Jack, having suddenly remembered that this was the night that she was to meet his mother and brother.
With Christmas tunes playing in the background, Jack and Elizabeth floated around the room, socializing with the guests as they arrived. Charlotte and Tom walked into the restaurant and she immediately grabbed Jack and pulled him in for a hug.
"Be nice, please…" he whispered. Turning to Elizabeth, he took her hand, "Elizabeth, this is my mom, Charlotte Thornton and my brother, Tom. Mom…Tom, this is my… this is my girlfriend, Elizabeth Thatcher."
"Oh Elizabeth, what a beautiful name," were the first words escaping Charlotte's mouth. "I love your blouse."
"Thank you. It's nice to meet you, Mrs. Thornton," Elizabeth responded.
"Oh honey, it's just Charlotte, okay?"
"Yes ma'am…I mean, okay."
"I'm happy to meet you, Elizabeth. Do you think maybe we could go talk for a while; I'm afraid my son hasn't told me much about you," Charlotte asked.
Elizabeth released Jack's hand, "Of course. Did you want to talk now?"
"Well, there's no time like the present."
Elizabeth turned to Jack, "She already hates me," she whispered before kissing his cheek.
Before Jack could respond, he watched as the two most important women in his life walked away from him, leaving him to wonder what they were talking about, and if Elizabeth would be talking to him afterward.
Elizabeth and Charlotte stopped by the bar and grabbed two glasses of wine before taking seats at a vacant table, within Jack's eye view.
Assuming that the alcohol would give her courage during her talk with Charlotte, she wanted to drink down her glass in one gulp. Quickly realizing that this may give Charlotte the wrong impression, she took one sip before returning her wine glass to the table.
"So, how did you and Jack meet?" Charlotte asked.
"I'm from Savannah, Georgia, and I grew up with Rosie; in fact, we're best friends," Elizabeth began. "I came to visit Rosie over the Memorial Day holiday. Actually, Rosie asked Jack to be my date for dinner, but he refused. So, I went to dinner with Tyler Markham; do you know him?"
"Yes, I've met Tyler. So, how is it that you and Jack got together?"
Suddenly feeling as though Charlotte may view her as a fickle woman, she quickly added, "First, let me say that I didn't know anything about Rosie trying to set me up. I don't know why I didn't think she would, because I've known her forever, but I guess I just thought I was going to visit her and to meet Lee."
"I see; so how did you and Jack meet?" Charlotte asked again.
"Rosie and I were meeting Lee at his office, and when we pulled up to the building, Rosie told me to go inside and she'd be right in," Elizabeth smiled at the remembrance of their first meeting. "I was admiring a bouquet of orange roses on the receptionist's desk and Jack walked up behind me. He startled me and I knocked the vase over, cutting my hand on the broken glass."
"Oh my, were you okay?"
"Oh, it wasn't anything bad, but Jack grabbed a first aid kit, and I have to tell you that when he took hold of my hand…" Elizabeth stopped. Wondering if she should tell his mother that she felt electricity with his touch, she simply added, "He was like a Boy Scout. He cleaned and bandaged it for me."
"That's my son," Charlotte agreed.
The women talked, and talked, all under Jack's watchful eye. Charlotte now knew where Elizabeth went to school, secondary and college, that she was previously an elementary school teacher, was remarkably close to her family, was contemplating studying for her real estate license, had never seen snow falling and loved the beach.
"Well, if that's not a sign, I don't know what is," Charlotte remarked when Elizabeth mentioned that both she and Jack purchased puppies from the same breeder.
Jack made three attempts to walk over to their table, but each time he was stopped by different employees, each one stopping to thank him for being such a great boss.
Back at the table, Elizabeth had finished her glass of wine, but couldn't remember if it were sipped, or guzzled. She was thankful when Charlotte stated, "I've enjoyed talking to you, but I guess I shouldn't monopolize all of your time."
"I've enjoyed talking to you as well," Elizabeth replied, and surprisingly, she meant it.
As the two women stood, Charlotte scooted her chair under the table before saying, "May I ask you one last question?"
They had already covered many topics, so she couldn't imagine her parting question to be of any concern. "Sure, ask away…"
"Are you planning to stay here on the Cape?"
Oh no, she thinks I'm going to make him go away to follow my dreams or something… Elizabeth thought. "I'm planning to stay on the Cape. I do consider it my home now."
"Did you move here because of Jack?"
"No ma'am," Elizabeth stated. "I missed Rosie, and I love staging properties, but I will admit that I do care about Jack, and…"
"You do…?" Charlotte interrupted.
"Yes ma'am; I care a great deal about him, and he is one of the reasons why I'm staying," Elizabeth admitted.
"Well, I'm glad to hear that," Charlotte stated.
Jack breezed past her, wrapped his arm around Elizabeth's waist and pulled her close, doing his best to gauge by their expressions how the talk went. "Mom, I'd like to dance with Elizabeth; may I steal her away?"
"Of course, honey. You two go have some fun."
Jack took hold of her hand and walked her out onto the already crowded dance floor. The DJ was doing his best to intermingle Christmas songs that could be danced to with Pop tunes.
As several coupled left the dance floor to take a break, Jack held Elizabeth close as "All I Want for Christmas" by Mariah Carey began to play.
I don't want a lot for Christmas
There is just one thing I need
I don't care about the presents
Underneath the Christmas tree
I just want you for my own
More than you could ever know
Make my wish come true
All I want for Christmas is you, yeah
As Elizabeth remained quiet, Jack held her close and whispered, "Are you okay?"
"Jack, your mom is so sweet, and she loves you so much."
Still whispering, Jack continued, "Honey, that's not what I asked you. Are you okay?"
"I'm fine, Jack. She just wants the best for you…"
"Well, that would be you…" Jack stated as a bright smile covered her face.
I don't want a lot for Christmas
There is just one thing I need
And I don't care about the presents
Underneath the Christmas tree
I don't need to hang my stocking
There upon the fireplace
Santa Claus won't make me happy
With a toy on Christmas Day
I just want you for my own
More than you could ever know
Make my wish come true
All I want for Christmas is you
You, baby
Oh, I won't ask for much this Christmas
I won't even wish for snow
And I'm just gonna keep on waiting
Underneath the mistletoe
I won't make a list and send it
To the North Pole for Saint Nick
I won't even stay awake to
Hear those magic reindeer click
'Cause I just want you here tonight
Holding on to me so tight
What more can I do?
Baby, all I want for Christmas is you
You, baby
Oh, all the lights are shining so brightly everywhere
And the sound of children's laughter fills the air
And everyone is singing
I hear those sleigh bells ringing
Santa, won't you bring me the one I really need?
Won't you please bring my baby to me?
Oh, I don't want a lot for Christmas
This is all I'm asking for
I just wanna see my baby
Standing right outside my door
Oh, I just want you for my own
More than you could ever know
Make my wish come true
Baby, all I want for Christmas... is you
You, baby
All I want for Christmas is you, baby
All I want for Christmas is you, baby
All I want for Christmas is you, baby
All I want for Christmas is you, baby
All I want for Christmas is you, baby
As the song ended, Lee reminded Jack of his Santa Claus obligation.
"Oh, I almost forgot," Jack stated as he looked around and observed approximately ten children anxiously standing in line awaiting Santa's arrival. "Have you seen Jimmy and my elf?"
"Jimmy just got here. He said his date is in the bathroom changing," Lee assured him. "She'll be ready when you are…go get dressed."
Interested in seeing Jack's elf for the night, Elizabeth excused herself and headed for the bathroom. Once inside, the room was quiet, eerily quiet, and she assumed that that she was the only one inside.
Running a brush through her hair as she stood in front of the mirror, Elizabeth started to talk to herself, "Girl, you are so lucky to have found a man who's willing to wait for you. Someone who understands that making love is special and worth waiting for."
Suddenly, a shoe hit the floor in the large, handicapped stall and Elizabeth glanced downward and observe two feet at the back end of the cubicle.
Assuming 'the elf' was changing, and that once she came out if she saw no one, she'd have no idea who had been talking, Elizabeth grabbed her purse and started for the door.
Hearing the click of the bathroom stall unlocking, Elizabeth glanced over and practically fell into the trashcan when Gabby, dressed as Mrs. Claus stepped out.
"What are you doing?" Elizabeth asked.
"I guess I could ask you the same thing."
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"Oh, this is just too funny; are you really still a virgin?"
"I don't know what you're talking about, but my personal life is none of you're business."
"Your right, it isn't, but here's some advice for you…if you want a man to stick around, you need to give him a reason to want to."
"You know, Gabby, you are pathetic."
"I'm just saying that Jack is a red-blooded man, and he has needs and desires, and you won't keep him for long with your puritanical ideas."
Gabby continued, "I'm surprised that you're even here…oh wait, I guess you have to be here anyway since it's Rosie's company party too," Gabby responded.
"What's that supposed to mean; why would you be surprised that I'm here?"
"Well, I heard that you and Jack broke up…wait, see I was right; he's not going to hang around forever. So, who are you dating now?" Gabby goaded her.
"I don't know who told you that, but their information was wrong. Jack and I are very much together, so no matter what you do, it's just not going to…you know, it won't make any difference…" Elizabeth stopped as she felt her blood pressure rising and could feel herself beginning to ramble.
"So, you don't have any problem if I dance with Jack, do you?"
"Why do you need to dance with Jack?" Elizabeth was quickly growing impatient with Gabby and her antics.
"Oh, I mean, Santa. You know, the kids will want to see us dancing, kissing and snuggling together."
"I don't know what world you live in, but parents who bring their kids to see Santa aren't expecting a porn show, so just knock it off."
"I'm just teasing, but I can see that it bothers you. Are you afraid that if Jack dances with me that he's going to remember what we shared together?"
"Gabby, I'm fairly certain he already has remembered and that's why he's with me now."
Taking a deep breath, Elizabeth composed herself and continued, "Gabby, Jack is a grown man, and if he wants to dance with you, I don't have any say about it. Like I've told you before, I wouldn't want to hang on to a man who doesn't want me, so don't you think you should spend time with the man who brought you to the party?"
"I'm Jimmy's date but we're just friends, so he doesn't care who I dance with. As far as the elf thing goes, I heard that Lee was looking for one, so I told Jimmy to volunteer me. To be honest, I do have an elf costume, and I did wear it for Jack when we were together, but it wasn't appropriate for the kids, if you know what I mean…" Gabby did her best to push Elizabeth's buttons.
"Apparently it made little impact on Jack since he's here with me this evening."
Gabby snapped back, "Well tonight I'm Mrs. Claus, Santa's loving and devoted wife. I'm sure the kids won't mind, do you?"
"I'm offended, because it's inappropriate for you to even be here, let alone pass yourself off as Santa's wife. Why exactly are you here?"
Happy holidays, Elizabeth… I need to go out and get a little lovin' from Santa," Gabby laughed as she walked out the bathroom door.
"Has she forgotten that this is a children's party?" Elizabeth whispered as she grabbed her purse, checked her makeup and walked back outside.
Elizabeth walked into the room and found Jack, dressed as Santa Claus, sitting in a green armchair in a staged area with a fireplace, a Christmas tree, complete with presents, and a decorated mantle, with Gabby sitting on the chair arm beside him, her arm around his shoulder.
Jack caught her eyes but having no idea that she had just spoken with Gabby in the bathroom, and was already aware of her presence, he was hoping to convey his surprise by simply looking in her direction.
Turning to Gabby, Jack asked, "What are you doing here, and why are you dressed like that?"
Before she could answer, the children began to circle around them, and Jack's attention returned to the little ones who began to call out to them.
"Santa…"
"Santa…"
"Santa…Mrs. Claus…we love you."
"You're behind me," one boy commented to another.
"Okay, no pushing," Santa called out. "Get in line so I can listen to each and every one of you, but one at a time."
The first three boys took their turns, and provided Santa with their wishes, which included bicycles, PlayStation, video games, and a go-cart. The next to step forward was a little girl, dressed in a clean but obviously old and well-worn hand me down pair of jeans and a pale pink top.
Standing behind her as she stepped forward and crawled into Jack's lap was her mother, Tammy, Jack's receptionist.
Jack turned to the little girl, "Hi Emily."
"How do you know my name?" she asked.
"Because I'm Santa, and I know everything. Just like I know you've been an exceptionally good little girl. So, what would you like for Christmas?"
Assuming it would be something simple like a baby doll, a stuffed animal or the like, Jack was shocked when she turned to whisper in his ear, "I want my daddy to not be sick and mommy to be happy again."
Never remembering Tammy to be anything other than cheerful at the office, hearing that Emily knew her to be otherwise concerned him. "Is there something that you'd like me to bring you for Christmas?"
Her eyes watered, and she shook her head back and forth. Jack's arm around her pulled her close and she immediately clung to him.
"Thank you, Santa, for being so nice," Emily stated as she crawled down from his lap.
As Tammy walked forward to take Emily's hand, Jack took hold of her arm, "I need to talk to you. Will you meet me after I finish here?"
"Jack…"
"Please Tammy, I need to talk to you."
"Jack…I mean Santa, it's not your problem."
"Please, just talk to me…"
"Okay…"
Tammy stepped away with Emily beside her and Jack, although now preoccupied, continued on by listening to the wishes of the remaining children in line.
Once all the wishes had been heard and he'd pushed Mrs. Claus away for a record number of times, Jack planned for Emily to play with a few of her friends and Santa took Tammy into another room.
"Tammy, I know it's not my business, but we've known each other forever, and you've been working with us for years, we're family here, and I know something's wrong."
Tammy glanced down, "It's Mike; he had a heart attack back in August and was out on sick leave for a month. Unfortunately, he's been out without pay for the past four months. He was getting better, and then had a setback, and Jack we're so far behind in things."
"Tammy, I'm so sorry, I had no idea," Jack walked her over to a table and encouraged her to take a seat. "What can I do to help?"
"Jack, it's not your problem."
"Tammy, it might not be, but I want to do something to help you, Mike and Emily."
Her tears began, "I thought we had it all together, but between the regular expenses and all the medical bills…could you please take that beard and hat off; it's freaking me out."
"I'm sorry…" Jack did as she asked, then jumped into what he could do to help. "Is your mortgage still with Cape Cod 5?"
"Yes, but Jack…"
He interrupted, "Tammy, we're going to help."
Feeling a slight sense of relief, Tammy broke down and cried, "Emily knows something's wrong; she just doesn't understand. Mike is back in the hospital, so he's not around, and when he is home, he isn't able to play with her like he used to. Often I find her in her room crying…"
"Is there anything I can do to help her?" Jack asked in a calm, soothing tone.
"No, I appreciate it. There's a Christmas dance on Monday night for the Pre-K classes; it's a father-daughter, mother-son kind of thing. She doesn't want to go because it would mean me taking her. She feels left out and I have a hard time talking with her about anything, because I cry at the drop of a hat."
"What does she want for Christmas?"
"She hasn't asked for anything…which is a good thing, because I can't afford anything right now."
Taking a deep breath, she calmed slightly, before continuing, "I'm sorry Jack. I need my job, so I won't let what's happening affect my work, I promise."
"Tammy, you're not just a valuable employee, you're a friend and Lee, and I will work something out to help you."
"Jack, I can't take handouts…"
"It won't be a handout," Jack promised her as he returned his beard and hat to its rightful place on his body.
As they finished their talk, Tammy hugged Jack under the watchful eye of Gabby who rushed to Elizabeth to provide her with Jack's dalliance.
Elizabeth put her hand up as Gabby rattled off what she'd seen, "I don't want to hear it, Gabby. Please can't you just leave me alone."
The rest of the evening, Elizabeth could tell that something was weighing on Jack's mind. Was it Gabby, or the fact that Jimmy was dating Gabby? She wasn't certain and with his Santa obligations, they weren't able to talk, until now. "What's wrong?" she asked as they walked outside.
Finally alone, he began, "First of all, I'm so sorry about Gabby being here; I had no idea that Jimmy was dating her," Jack rattled off quickly.
"Does it bother you?" she asked. "Jimmy dating her, I mean."
"What, no of course not," he replied, "Well, honestly, I hate to see Jimmy get hung up with her, but that's his life. I'm just sorry that you still have to deal with her."
"Jack, both of us have to deal with her, but for me, she's more like a pebble in my flip flop; I'm just trying not to think about her," Elizabeth assured him. "Besides, I actually saw Gabby in the Ladies restroom, and she told me that she and Jimmy are just friends. She came with him tonight because he needed a date, and apparently you needed an elf."
"Then why was she dressed like Mrs. Claus?"
Elizabeth coughed, "She said that she had an elf costume that she'd worn for you before, but it was inappropriate for the kids. Is that true?"
"I've never seen her in an elf costume…appropriate or not."
Holding his hat and beard in his hand, Elizabeth leaned over and kissed his lips, "You need to put your beard back on and finish up with the kids, because if anyone sees me kissing Santa, the rumors will fly."
"Let them talk…" Jack's words were rushed, and he pulled her into his body, "I don't care if people talk, do you?"
Elizabeth took the beard and hat from his hand. Placing the elastic over his head, the beard and hat were now in place. Her voice was barely a whisper, "Have you seen the way the younger ones look at you? I'd say that those children inside believe you are Santa Claus. So, I'd rather they see me kissing you as Santa than seeing you as Jack imitating Santa."
"I didn't think about that…"
"That's why you have me," she replied, but gave him no time to respond as her lips parted slightly and her mouth covered his. His tongue sought the warmth on the inside of her mouth as it ran gently along the soft skin on her lips.
Breaking apart, each one fought for their breath, "I'm kinda fond of that reason…"
Unaware that Gabby was inside the restaurant watching them through the window, Elizabeth apologized, "I'm sorry, Jack; I didn't mean to get carried away. Something other than Gabby was bothering you before; do you want to talk about it?"
"It's Tammy," he responded as he proceeded to fill her in on the less than cheery information he'd learned.
"Okay, well, let me take care of Christmas for Emily, and what can we do for the family…?"
"What…?" he seemed shocked. "You don't even know them."
"But you do, and this is bothering you enough that I want to do what I can to help."
Jack released a hard breath which escaped passed his lips sounding much like a soft laugh, "You know, you are such a special woman." He stepped closer as his right hand brushed several strands of hair behind her ear. Whispering, he continued, "Every time I think I couldn't possibly love you more, I'm mistaken, and I grow deeper, and deep…er in love…with…you…" he'd barely allowed the words to escape his mouth as his lips tenderly met hers.
Soft, warm and wet, the kiss was magical, and left Elizabeth with one item marked off of her age-old bucket list…making out with Santa.
Jack and Elizabeth walked back inside as the kids, excited for the holiday, and the wonder of what Santa will bring, gathered around, begging for him to read them The Night Before Christmas.
Sitting in the green armchair, he instructed Gabby to disappear when she tried to sit beside him.
Opening the book, Jack settled in as Emily, seemingly smiling for the first time in many months, climbed up into his lap.
"Is this okay, Santa…?" she leaned in and whispered in his ear.
"I wouldn't have it any other way," he whispered back.
Emily rose up and turned each page, but quickly nestled back into his chest until her services were needed again.
With the book completed, and most of the children, and their parents exhausted, Jack, still dressed as Santa began handing out presents and bonuses. Each child was excited as they ripped open their gift, and Jack's heart leapt when he handed Emily her present and observed the bright smile that covered her face.
He watched as she opened her Vtech Write and Learn Creative Center and immediately began to draw a cat. Elizabeth, ever the teacher, walked over and helped her spell out "CAT" on the board.
All of the kids were excited with their gifts, and their parents were equally thrilled to receive their $1500 bonus.
It was now Monday morning and Jack's first phone call was to Cape Cod 5, the bank which held the mortgage on Mike and Tammy's house.
"Hey Brock, it's Jack Thornton…"
"Hey Jack, what can I do to help you?"
"Well, I have an employee whose mortgage is with your bank, and they've fallen on some hard times. I'd like to get it up to date and pay a couple of months ahead."
Knowing that Jack was referring to Tammy, Brock stated, "Jack, because of confidentiality issues, I can't give you any information, but if you were inclined to write out a check for…" there was a pause, and the sound of an adding machine clicking in the background. "Okay, if you wanted to write out a check for $10940.52, that would pay the three months that this family may be behind, as well as three more months. Oh, and I'll waive the late fees."
"Okay thanks, I'll be down in a little while…"
It was still early, and Jack's heart ached for Emily, what she was going through and how he could help. He grabbed his keys off the entryway table and headed for his truck. Fifteen miles away, he pulled into the hospital parking lot, parked and headed inside.
Receiving a clearance to see Mike, Jack slipped into Room #416, and luckily caught him awake, watching the news, and feeling as though the weight of the world was on his weary shoulders.
"Hey Mike…"
"Hey Jack…"
"Man, I'm sorry; I had no idea about your heart attack."
"We were trying to keep it within the family."
"I'm sorry, and I don't want to meddle, but I'd like to help."
At that point Mike lost control of his emotions and the tears began. Jack pulled up a seat and sat beside his bed, "Mike, we're friends, and I consider you family. Wasn't it you who stood up with me in 11th grade when Adam Talbert threatened me because I took the quarterback position away from him?"
"Well, yeah…"
"And wasn't it you who came over and sat with my mom until I could get there when my dad was killed?"
"I couldn't leave her alone…"
"Mike, my point is, we may not hang around with each other and our lives have gone in different directions, but if I needed something you were there. It's my turn…"
"I don't know what to say, Jack…"
"Well, this is what I want to do…" Jack stated as he laid out his plan, receiving a very thankful thumbs up from Mike.
Ten minutes later, Jack pulled into Cape Cod 5 with a check in hand and a plan to take some of the worry off Tammy's shoulders.
Across town, Elizabeth was up early, her Christmas list in hand, and standing in line hoping to snag some of the most sought-after toys for four-year-old children like Emily.
She managed to secure a Magic Walking and Singing Unicorn, a Crayola 2-Sided Easel, a doll with several changes of clothes, a personalized purse, a pink and grey jacket with a hood, a pair of ivory tights, two fit and flare jersey dresses, one in white with red hearts, and the other in pink designed with hearts and unicorns, and a Butterfly Fairy Lights Arts and Crafts set. Elizabeth also picked up a pair of Christmas pajamas that she planned to leave unwrapped.
On her way back to Jack's, she passed his beloved hardware store. Glancing over at several items outside, something caught her eye. Still needing to shop for Jack, she stopped and ran inside.
"Hmm, I'm not sure how I will wrap this, but I think we'll both enjoy it," she thought to herself as she placed the item on a cart and carried it up to the checkout line. Her next stop was a jewelry store and embroidery shop.
Barely managing to fit everything in her small car, she took off, excited to show Jack everything she'd found for Emily. In a separate bag there were rolls of Christmas paper, bows and the much-required Scotch tape, all of which she intended to use to encourage his help with the wrapping.
Standing at his front door she rang the bell. The thoughts running through her mind had nothing to do with Gabby and the last scene she'd seen there. It had to do with a little girl, hurting for many reasons, and her family who had fallen on hard times.
Although Elizabeth had never experienced their hardship, she knew what it felt like to need help but to be too proud to ask. It was her hope that in making the Christmas a joyous one for Emily, that it would also brighten the spirits of her parents.
Jack opened the door; thankful to see her standing on his porch, he whisked her and the bags inside. "I have been trying to reach you all afternoon."
"I'm sorry, but I've been fighting my way through the Christmas crowds. Is something wrong?"
"No, not really, but I need some help…"
"I thought that was what I was doing," Elizabeth responded as she pointed at all of the Christmas presents she'd purchased for Emily.
Looking at the bags, he smiled before returning to his slightly frantic state, "I see, and it looks wonderful, but I'm really in a bind and I need some help."
"Okay, what is it?"
"There is a Christmas dance…"
She interrupted, "A Christmas dance…?" Elizabeth looked down and observed her outfit, a pair of stressed jeans and a sweatshirt. "Jack, I'm not dressed for a dance. Why didn't you tell me before now?"
"Well, actually it's not for you. It's a dance at Centerville Elementary School, and Emily won't go because it's a father-daughter, mother-son dance. With Mike in the hospital, I thought I'd go by and take her."
"Oh Jack, that is so sweet of you. Did you check with Tammy to see what she needed?"
"No, I'm afraid if I call she'll say 'no' but if I show up maybe she'd agree to let Emily go. Elizabeth please, I need your help."
"Okay, I know you know how to dance, so you don't need a lesson; what do you need me to do?"
"I need to get her a dress and a corsage…"
Elizabeth dropped her bags, "I'll be back as soon as I can…"
"Hurry…" he yelled out as she ran down the porch steps.
"Don't worry about me, you be ready when I get back."
Elizabeth rushed to the mall, parked and ran into the first dress shop she came to. Sadly, many of the items on the racks looked much like Emily would be trolling the streets, bringing Elizabeth back to her teaching days and the inappropriate outfits that often graced the bodies of her students.
She finally settled on a dress with a black velvet bodice, short sleeve but with a matching long sleeve bolero, and a plaid taffeta skirt. Shoes were a bit iffy, but she thought back to her teaching days. On many occasions she'd secretly purchased clothing and shoes for her own students or others in the school whose families had fallen on hard times, and she was quite adept at getting the correct size.
She grabbed a pair of black ballet flats, a pair of black tights, paid for her items and rushed back out to the car. Elizabeth made a quick stop at the closest florist hoping to purchase a wrist corsage but found nothing suitable for a 4-year-old girl.
On her way to the door, she found a broach that looked much like a real red rose, and seeing that time was not on her side, she purchased the pin as well as the red rose boutonniere in the refrigerator case before scooting back outside.
When she arrived back at the house, Jack was dressed in a black suit, and actually had Elizabeth feeling somewhat jealous that the four-year-old was the one who would be enjoying this evening with him.
"Jack, you look so handsome," she whispered as she attempted to place the boutonniere on his lapel. "Why are you so fidgety…stand still or I'm liable to stick you with this pin."
"I'm nervous…"
"Why, Jack; you know Emily, and she's just a sweet little girl."
"I just want her to have a good time."
"Trust me, Jack, she will have the best time…and I should know, because I always have a wonderful time when I'm with you."
"Okay, I'm gonna go; wish me luck," he stated as he turned toward the front door.
Elizabeth took hold of his hand and turned him back around to face her. Pressing his body up against the wall, she now replaced the prior visual with Gabby, inserting herself, as her lips tenderly pressed against his.
His arms slipped around her waist and he held her close against his body. "Oh, if you only knew how much I wanted to stay here with you right now," he whispered.
"Okay, my work here is done…I just didn't want you to forget me."
"Trust me Elizabeth, you are impossible to forget…" his voice was soft as he gently planted one final kiss on her cheek before heading outside. "Can I see you later tonight?"
"If you don't think you'll be out too late…"
"Elizabeth, she's four-years-old."
"Well, maybe we can get these presents wrapped later."
"Uh, that's not really what I had in mind…" he stepped closer.
Elizabeth laughed and pushed gently against his chest, "Well, if we keep this up, you'll never make it to the dance. And, although I love your thinking, Mr. Thornton, these presents still need to be wrapped."
Elizabeth walked with Jack out to the driveway and watched as he pulled away from the house on his way to a hopeful dance date with Emily. Twenty minutes later, Jack pulled into the driveway of Emily's house. Grabbing the dress, shoes and rose broach, he approached the front door. Before he cleared the top step, the door flew open, and Tammy had her arms around his neck.
With tears falling, she barely managed to speak, "I…I …ciate what yo…you've do…done, bu-ut I…I, we can't accept it…"
Jack laid the dress on the railing and placed the shoes and broach on the porch. Taking her hands, he looked into her eyes, "Tammy, when Lee and I started this company, we promised ourselves that we would put 10% of each property into an account for our employees to be used when needed. Lee and I agree that it is needed, and I hope you will accept this gift from us…your family."
"But Jack," her tears were still falling, "I don't know when Mike and I can pay back the company. Can you just deduct something from my pay?"
"No, we won't take anything from your salary. This is a gift, and we don't expect you to pay it back. What I would like is for you to keep me up on how Mike is doing, and if you need anything, and I mean anything at all."
"I can do that," her arms again found their way around his neck, "We were close to losing the house, so you have no idea what a burden you have just lifted off my shoulders. Thank you, Jack…"
"You're very welcome. Now for the real reason I'm here…" he reached over and picked up the dress.
"Why are you so dressed up…is Elizabeth with you?" she asked as she glanced over at his truck.
"No, she's not with me."
"What's that for," Tammy asked as he picked up the dress, shoes and broach from their temporary resting places.
"Well, I know Mike is in the hospital, but you said that Emily has a dance at school this evening, and I would love to take her."
"What… you want to do that?"
"Of course I do, if it's okay."
"I don't know if she'll go, but it's fine with me," she stated as she started for the front door. Stopping, she turned around, "Jack, you are truly one of the best men I have ever known. Elizabeth is incredibly lucky to have you."
Jack smiled, "That's nice of you to say, but I actually feel like the lucky one in this relationship."
They stepped inside the house and Tammy called Emily downstairs. Carrying her V-Tech computer, she raced to the entryway, "Yes mommy?" Turning to see Jack, she stated, "Mr. Jack, look what Santa gave me at the party. I'm so lucky…I got to sit in his lap while he read us a story. He's such a nice man," she rambled as she stared into his eyes. "Mr. Jack, did you know that you and Santa have the same eyes…?"
Jack laughed softly, "Really; no, I wasn't aware of that."
Turning back to her mom, she again asked, "Did you want me, mommy?"
"Look what Mr. Jack brought you."
"Oh, Mr. Jack, it's a beautiful dress."
Jack squatted down in order to be eye level with her, "Emily, I understand that there is a Christmas dance at your school this evening, and well, I never got to go to my Christmas dance when I was your age," fibbing slightly since there was no Christmas dance at his school when he was her age. "Anyway, would you let me be your date for the evening?"
"Really Mr. Jack…?" she squealed. Turning to her mother, "Is it okay mommy?"
"Of course, it's okay, but we have to hurry up and get you ready."
Tammy and Emily raced toward the stairs before Emily turned around and ran back to Jack. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she held on tight, much like she had to Santa at the Christmas party. "Thank you, Mr. Jack…thank you."
As she ran up the stairs with Tammy, Jack found himself wiping away several tears as they rolled down his cheeks.
Emily was so proud of her new dress and shoes and made certain that all of her friends saw her rose broach and were introduced to her date, "Mr. Jack." Of course, there weren't many introductions needed because Jack knew most of the people at the dance as they had either met through business ventures or social gatherings.
Emily stood on Jack's feet as they danced to song after song, and it brought him a great deal of joy to see the once sad and depressed little girl with a smile on her face and enjoying herself.
Jack walked Emily to the door where he found Tammy appreciatively waiting.
"Did you have a good time?" Tammy asked Emily.
"Mommy, Mr. Jack let me stand on his feet like daddy does…did, and we danced. It was so much fun…" Emily stated as she hugged Jack. "Thank you," she called out before running inside.
"Jack, I just…"
"Tammy, you don't have to say anything," he assured her. "Take care of Mike and let us know if you need anything."
"I will…"
Rosie's house…
Elizabeth managed to get Jack's big box, and all the other gifts she'd purchased upstairs and wrapped along with most every item for Emily as well. She and Cruise were out for a walk along the waterline when Jack pulled into her driveway.
Looking inside the door, Jack could see that Cruise's crate was empty, and since Elizabeth's car was in the driveway, he assumed that they were nearby.
Standing at the railing on her deck, Jack called out to Elizabeth as she came over the dune on her way back to the house, "Hey beautiful…"
"Well, my hair is windblown, I have no makeup on, and I'm in old clothes, so beautiful isn't the word I'd use," she responded while climbing the steps to the deck.
"You're always beautiful to me."
"Well, I'm fairly certain Mr. Thornton that I could put that statement to the test," although she laughed softly, she was also aware that there would be times when he could not possibly find her to be beautiful.
They walked inside and Jack observed all of the gayly wrapped gifts; "Are all of these for Emily?"
"No, not all of them. I did mail a box off last week for my parents, but this one," she walked over and held up a small box, "It's a watch I got for Rosie, because she's always late. This one's for you," she held up a small but different shaped box than the one before. "It's cute, and well, I thought it would keep you thinking of me."
"Don't you know by now that I'm always thinking about you?" he asked. "So, you aren't going to tell me what you got me?"
"Jack, you need to wait until Christmas morning."
"I've never been patient at Christmas time."
"I can tell you that I picked up a… oh wait, I can't tell you what I got Lee, because I got you one too. Oh well, the others are for Emily, except for this one…that's for you," she stated as she pointed to a large box covered in Rudolph wrapping paper. "And I got this for you, but it's really for us."
"Oh," she continued, "While I was out, I looked for a pair of boots," she stated.
"Did you get any?"
"No, I saw this black pair of Sperry or Sorel, something like that, with fur around the top and they were so cute, but I needed a 7 ½ and they had it in 7 and 8. I'll have to see if I can find a pair before Christmas, because my tennis shoes won't cut it in the snow."
"Well, I don't even know what a Christmas without snow would be like. I don't think I've ever experienced one."
"And I've never experienced a Christmas with snow."
Elizabeth turned on the TV and they sat on the sofa enjoying a glass of wine…Well, Jack was enjoying the beverage, Elizabeth, on the other hand was fast asleep leaning up against his body before the beginning movie credits had finished scrolling.
He leaned over and kissed the top of her head, realizing that some nights were not going to turn out how he'd planned or fantasized. Having hoped for a more romantic evening, he ended up sitting quietly, inhaling the scent of her floral perfume, and putting the finishing touches on his Christmas list for her.
Several hours later, Rosie and Lee returned from their evening out and caught both Jack and Elizabeth asleep, on the sofa with Cruise on the floor, curled up in a ball beside them.
"Aren't they precious?" Rosie whispered. "But, you know, they are always asleep; is that a good sign?"
"Rosie, I've known Jack forever, and I've never seen him so content," Lee responded.
"What do you mean?" Rosie asked.
"I mean, he's happy; he's happy at work; he's happy in his love life, which I don't think has ever happened before, and I'm admitting that meeting Elizabeth was good for him."
"I told you…"
"Yes dear…"
The following morning, Jack was sitting at his kitchen table having a cup of coffee. He dialed Paisley Jacobs' number, owner of "The Streetwalker," a local shoe store…
"Hello, Jack…"
"Hey Paisley, it's Jack, oh sorry, you already know that" he laughed softly. "I'm sorry to call you so early…"
"That's okay; what can I help you with?"
"My girlfriend moved here from Georgia, so needless to say, she isn't used to winters on the Cape."
"I heard you had a new honey…congrats Jack. I'm glad to see you out there again," Paisley interjected. "I never said anything, but Gabby wasn't good enough for you, and I secretly cheered when you two broke up."
"Funny thing is, I don't think you were the only one who cheered when that relationship tanked. But I'm really happy now; Elizabeth is the best, and it's our first Christmas together."
"You sound happy, Jack. So, what kind of shoes do you want for your girlfriend?"
"Boots…"
"Oh Jack, we have a great selection of dress boots in stock."
"No, not dress boots. She needs boots for snow."
"Oh okay; we have a great selection in stock of those too."
"What I want are boots that come maybe halfway up the shin in black with fur around the top. Do you have anything like that?"
"Sorel boots, yes I have several styles."
"When you get to the shop will you pull all of the 7 ½ pairs in that style of boot and I'll come by and pick one?"
"Absolutely…I'm actually on my way to the store now.
"Well, this is going to be a "first" Christmas for her," Jack advised.
"How so?" Paisley asked.
"She's never seen snow falling before, and I promised her snow on Christmas, so she needs boots to be able to get out in it."
"So, where are you taking her?"
"What do you mean; I don't need to take her anywhere."
"Jack, if you want her to see snow, you'd better find some place to take her," she advised. "The news channels have been reporting all day how this is the first Christmas in for-ever that will be without snow."
"Are you serious?"
"Of course, I am. Do you still want the boots?"
"Of course, I do. I'll find a place to take her that has snow…"
"Good luck, Jack."
"Thanks Paisley. I'll be in a little later to pick out those boots."
One phone call led to another and then another until he had everything lined up. Now he simply had to talk Elizabeth into going away with him for the holiday.
Jack was thankful that he'd talked with Paisley earlier in the day, for who would have known that Sorel boots, in the style Elizabeth wanted and in size 7 ½ would be the shoppers' favorite purchase this year.
Standing in the store, Paisley pulled him into the back room where she lined up four pairs of boots, all size 7 ½, similar styles but different colors.
Jack settled on a black pair of Sorel boots, with white fur along the top and on the inside for warmth. Paying by credit card and $150 later, they were in a bag and he was exiting the store. He made a trip to several specialty stores, perusing each counter and rack for just the right gifts for Elizabeth. "Was it too early for jewelry, any kind of jewelry," he asked himself before finding just the perfect gifts before moving on to the next store.
With multiple bags in his hands, he smiled with each and every step he took back out to his truck, knowing in his heart that this would be the absolute best Christmas of his life.
Once home, Jack wrapped the gifts he'd purchased for Elizabeth, four boxes in all, each one in varying sizes, before printing out information on their "trip." He and Audrey excitedly left the house; her thrilled to be with Cruise, and Jack, anxious to present his travel plans to Elizabeth.
Cruise was waiting at the door when Jack and Audrey slipped inside. Elizabeth could hear the dogs happily howling from down the hall, and quickly joined the group.
While Cruise and Audrey played with the numerous toys scattered about the floor, Jack took Elizabeth's hand and led her to the sofa. "Can we talk?"
"Oh, that sounds ominous; is something wrong?"
"No, not really, it's just that the weather forecast is not calling for snow on Christmas."
"Really…that sure is disappointing," she stated as her initial smile at seeing Jack changed to an anxious expression, and finally settled on disappointment.
"I'm sorry; I know I promised you snow."
"Jack, don't you remember telling me that you aren't responsible for the weather forecast?"
"Maybe not, but I have a solution…"
"What, a snow machine?"
Jack laughed softly, "No, I'd like for us to take a trip to Taughannock Falls State Park. I rented us a house, and they are expecting a good snowfall for Christmas Eve."
"But Jack…"
"Elizabeth, I know what you're going to say."
"Oh, so you think you know me well enough to know what I'm thinking?"
"You're concerned about the sleeping arrangements. This house has more than enough rooms. In fact, you, me, Audrey and Cruise can all sleep in different rooms for that matter."
"Well, I guess you do know what I'm thinking, but Cruise is going to want to sleep with Audrey," she replied as she looked at the pictures of the house that he'd printed off the internet.
"I know how he feels," Jack whispered under his breath.
"What…?"
"Uh, so, what do you think?" he asked, silently praying that she would agree to go away with him.
"You know Jack, I think this will be a wonderful trip. So, yes I'd love to go away with you."
"Really…you'll go?" he was shocked and not certain that he'd heard her correctly.
"Of course, I'd love to go, and by the looks of it, Cruise and Audrey will love it too."
"That's great, can you be ready to leave tomorrow morning?"
"I'll pack tonight, and you just tell me what time to be ready…"
"6…" Jack stated.
"In the morning?" she coughed.
"Too early?" he responded.
"No, of course not. We'll be ready."
"How about 8, would that be better?"
"Immensely…"
With a bucketload of things to get done, they made it an early night. Jack and Audrey rushed home, packed and loaded his truck before hitting the bed at midnight.
Elizabeth was still packing when Jack texted her, "I'm done, r u…?"
Feeling as though he was goading her, she texted in response, "Just about. Just trying 2 decide wat negligees 2 bring. Ur fave color…?"
"What…? Blue, green, pink, purple, white, black…oh hell, any color…"
"I'm teasing. U tried 2 make me feel bad that I take 2 long 2 pack…"
"No, just want u 2 know that I'm excited to go w/ u…"
"Oh, then I'm sorry, thought u were teasing me…"
"But feel free 2 bring negligees, any color…"
"JACK…"
"I'm teasing…" he took a deep breath, "I think!" he whispered.
"I'll c u in the morning…"
"E- I love u…"
"I love you too…"
The following morning Elizabeth pulled the presents for Rosie and Lee from her bag and sat them under the Christmas tree. Knocking on Rosie's bedroom door, she was groggily invited inside.
"Hey," Elizabeth whispered.
"What are you up so early for?"
"I didn't get to talk to you last night…speaking of which, did you just get in?"
"Lee and I were celebrating," Rosie giggled.
Knowing exactly what she meant, Elizabeth changed the subject, or at least she thought she did. "Jack is taking me to Tau…Tuc…Tag…he's taking me to a state park where they are expecting snow."
"Ooo, you two are going away together. Does that mean that…"
Elizabeth interrupted as she took a seat on the side of Rosie's bed, "It means that Jack is taking me, Audrey and Cruise away for the holiday so we can experience snow, and that's it."
"When are you leaving?"
"I'm on my way out now. I thought I'd try to be downstairs when Jack arrived," she stated before standing up. "I didn't want to leave you a note, so…you have a nice Christmas. I left your present and one for Lee on the kitchen table, and Cruise and I'll see you when we get home."
"When will that be?"
"You know, I forgot to ask."
"Well, have a great time, and who knows, maybe you'll come home engaged and we can have a double wedding."
"Stop it, Rosie. It's only been seven months, hardly enough time to build a lifetime on…right?"
"You're asking the wrong person. I fell in love with Lee the night I met him, so seven minutes was long enough for me…"
"Rosie, that's just crazy."
"Well, I'm crazy in love, and from what I see, you have that look in your eyes too."
Elizabeth started toward the door. Before stepping out into the hallway, she turned and responded, "I don't know what will happen, but I'm really in no rush, and I certainly don't want Jack to think I am and feel pressured."
"If he asked what would you say?"
"Rosie stop; I know Jack, and he's not going to ask. It's too soon for him."
"But is it too soon for you?"
"I can't imagine loving any other man the way I love him."
"Ha, I knew it," Rosie laughed.
"Well, I know I'm preaching to deaf ears, but please leave it alone."
"I won't say anything…have fun," Rosie yelled out as Elizabeth closed the door behind her.
"You too…" Elizabeth called back, as she grabbed their stuff and headed outside.
Finding Jack in the driveway loading up Cruise's crate and food that she had already brought downstairs, she picked up her speed, excited to begin her holiday with the man she loved.
With Elizabeth downstairs by 7:15, and the truck packed by 7:30, Jack was pulling out of Elizabeth's neighborhood thirty minutes early on their drive to Taughannock Falls State Park which was scheduled to take 6 hours and 45 minutes, that is with no stops.
The first stop came only twenty minutes later when he swung by Tammy's house to drop off Emily's Christmas presents. Tammy hugged Jack, again thanking him for everything.
"Merry Christmas, Tammy," Jack stated as he stepped off the porch.
"It will be Jack. I just heard from Mike, and he's coming home this afternoon."
"That's wonderful news…take care."
"You too…" Tammy replied. Glancing over at the truck, she yelled out, "Hi Elizabeth, Merry Christmas."
"Merry Christmas to you too."
"Hey Jack," Tammy called out causing him to stop and turn around. "I'm so glad that you've found someone. You seem so happy, and you really deserve that."
"Thank you; I've gotta tell you, I think I'm beyond happy. It's scary sometimes."
"Don't let it be, and if she is the reason, don't let her get away."
"I don't intend to."
With local errands completed, Jack pulled out onto the highway and headed west toward New York. For a majority of the trip, his right hand held her left as his thumb gently and subconsciously brushed across her soft skin.
To be continued…
NOTE: Sorry that it has taken me so long to update. For those of you unaware, I had knee replacement surgery 3 weeks ago, so writing had to take a backseat. I have actually written more on this story, but there was so much info that I felt it best to break it down into a few chapters. I hope you enjoy it… Oh, and I have reviewed it several times, but just remember, I am on medication, and what seems normal under the influence of my meds, may not be normal in real life. Hopefully, you won't come across anything that fits into that category…LOL