(Jack's POV)

I knew I was stressing myself out, but I couldn't help myself. Knowing how long it usually takes to get things built, but times two, I wanted everything to be perfect before my child arrived in this world. I also knew, however, that it was taking a toll on my marriage with Elizabeth. We committed to each other first, and I needed to remember that.

I woke up early in the mornings to work on the house a bit, then went to work, and then worked on the schoolhouse in the evenings. I typically had lunch at Abigail's during the school day, and that's the only meal I'd eat. I knew it was bad, but I poured all of my energy into this, that I was starting to unravel, myself.

I decided to take a break one day, and surprise Elizabeth. She deserved the world, and this baby was such a miracle after all we had been through.

I left early once more, to prepare, and to also not throw off my plan. I packed a bag of supplies, then headed to Abigail's to cook. I knew if I cooked at our house, then Elizabeth and the baby would wake up to the smells.

Once I dropped everything off at the new house site, I headed back home. It was a Saturday afternoon, so Elizabeth was probably writing, something she was trying to pick back up more before the baby came.

When I arrived, I found my amazing wife hanging up laundry in the backyard, singing to herself as she did it. She didn't sing often, but when she did, she usually stopped when she noticed I was listening. So I just stood in the doorway and smiled, listening to her softly sing to our little future Thornton.

Speaking of the baby, Elizabeth had gained a little baby bump in the past few weeks, but nothing too noticeable yet, except to me. I always got so excited seeing the little bump that would be our whole world before we knew it.

Elizabeth finally saw my in the corner of her eye, and smirked as she turned to face me. "How long were you going to lurk there?"

"We're married, I can lurk as much as I'd like." I walked to her and planted a kiss on her lips. "Here, let me help you with the rest."

"You've always had a knack for sweeping in right when everything's almost done."

"I don't know what you're talking about." We both giggled, as I finished the last of the clothes-pinning.

"What are you doing home anyway? I feel like I haven't seen you in so long, might I add."

"I know, and I'm sorry, but that's why I'm here. I have a surprise for you."

"Are the buildings done already?"

"I wish, but no. You're close though."

We walked through town, and it seemed like everyone was shocked to see us together. We stopped to chat with folks along the way, and it was nice spending time with my wife and the town again. I couldn't wait to go on strolls as a family when our baby was here.

We finally got to the site of the new school, which was coming along quite nicely. My guess is that it would be done by the end of the month, or next.

"I can't wait to get books for class from right next door. And the children can spend recess reading and checking out books! Even throughout the summer, they'll be able to expand their horizons because of the library." I squeezed Elizabeth's hand and smiled at her, I'm so glad I could make her dreams reality.

When we got to the house, Elizabeth stopped in her tracks. "Jack… is this...?"

"Our future home." I gave her a kiss and lead her inside. The walls and floor plan had been built, but the rest still needed work. We walked through each room, though we couldn't head upstairs yet, because the stairs hadn't been built quite yet. Once we reached the backdoor, we came upon the real surprise.

I had a picnic blanket laid down, with a basket full of food. The plates and silverware were arranged, but I didn't want bugs getting to the food, so I had decided it was best to leave it in the basket for now.

"Jack, when did you do all this?" Elizabeth was clearly shocked, but thrilled, and we made our way to the blanket to have a seat.

"This morning. Abigail helped me plan things a few days ago. I cooked everything at the café earlier this morning, so nothing would potentially wake you up, giving it away. We've got salad and fruit, some rolls, and chicken pot pie." I started getting everything out and arranging it before us.

"This all looks so delicious, I don't quite know where to start!"

We ate in silence for a bit, as I could tell Elizabeth was just enjoying her food and also taking everything all in. We also shared some passionate kisses too, and joked about our early days in Hope Valley.

After lunch, we walked back through the house, trying to imagine ourselves living here in a few months.

"You know, I know it's a little bit early, but we should start thinking of names for the baby. Do you think it's a boy or a girl?"

"Elizabeth, you know that all I care about is that they're safe, happy, and healthy. We can think of some names later, today is for you & me. For we've been lacking in that area recently. But I never want you to forget how much I love you, Mrs. Elizabeth Thornton."

"I love you too Jack Thornton."