Disclaimer: I am not the owner of the characters in this story. All rights go to Crown Media, Hallmark, Brian Bird, Michael Landon, Jr., the actors, creators, and writers of the show "When Calls the Heart." Any names or locations are simply for storyline purposes.

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NOTE: Please observe the STEAM ALERT notification above. This is Jack and Elizabeth's honeymoon and I want to do it justice, but it may be considered mild for some, just right for some others, and too far, way over the top for a few. It is not my intent to offend anyone, so please, if you venture in, you have done so at your own risk!

Chapter 19- Rock My World

As Tristan rushed off to grab another cupcake, Jack took hold of Elizabeth's hand and sat down beside her.

Smiling, he enthusiastically commented, "You're my wife…we've come a long way from that proposal I made so I could stretch out my time with you."

"What…?" she asked.

"That dinner we went on, that was all you were giving me. I didn't want you to leave my life again, so the proposal was my last chance to give us time to work out our past," he admitted. "Elizabeth Thornton, you are my best friend, and my dearest love; I loved you then; I love you now, and I'll love you for the rest of my life."

He reached over and gently brushed the tears away that quickly rolled down her cheeks. Fighting to hold back his own tears, he whispered, "You bring out the best in me."

Elizabeth glanced around; she wanted time alone with Jack, but also knew that family and friends were excited to wish them well. Rosemary had gathered everyone, directing them inside, leaving Jack and Elizabeth alone in the yard, well, alone except for two security guards who were standing near the canal.

"My husband; I always dreamed of this moment, but I have to admit, I didn't think it would come to pass. So thank you," her voice was soft as her lips gently met his.

"For what?"

"For being persistent; for not letting me push you away…too far, for showing me that what we had all those many years ago was still important and worth fighting for, and for loving my daughter like she was your own…"

"Elizabeth, as far as I'm concerned, Tristan is mine, and once the adoption is final, there will be no question about it."

Jack wrapped his arm around Elizabeth and pulled her close, "At the risk of sounding too excited, do you think we could say our goodbyes and start our honeymoon?"

"I personally think that second to you asking me to marry you, getting out of here for our honeymoon has to be the best idea you've had. So where are we going?" she asked.

"Huh…?"

"Are you okay?" she asked.

"Of course I am…"

"So, are we going away some place? I mean, this wedding was put together really fast, and I don't even have something special to entice and excite you." She remarked.

"I'm in trouble if you don't know by now that you always excite and entice me. You could make a burlap sack look sexy," he added.

"Well, I can assure you that there will be no burlap, but it may be flannel…" she teased, although she wasn't so certain that it wouldn't come to pass.

"Well, first things first…" he mentioned as he appeared to go deep in thought.

"Are we staying here? I mean that'll be perfect too. We just have to wait until everyone leaves, and…oh my gosh!" she sharply gasped.

Startled, he finally snapped out of his self imposed trance, "What's wrong?"

"Tristan; I didn't make any arrangements for her. I'm afraid our honeymoon may be turned into a family-moon."

"No, no family-moon on this trip. I've wanted this time with you for years, and as much as I love her, time alone with her mother needs to come first," he replied before leaning over and capturing her lips.

"I totally agree, but I need to make arrangements for my parents to take care of her," Elizabeth stated as she started to stand.

"Rosemary's taking care of her, and she'll see that she gets to and from school," Jack assured her. "However, I completely forgot to get reservations anywhere," he stated as he pulled out his phone, and anxiously waited for it to power up. "Don't worry though, I'll find some place nice," She put her hand over his, "Jack look around; this place is gorgeous…"

"But Matt is staying here now, so we won't be alone."

"Oh right…" she removed her hand, "Continue your search."

"How about here?" Jack asked as pictures of The Breakers in Pam Beach graced his screen.

"Oh, Jack that's gorgeous and right on the water…"

"Honey, we're right on the water here too."

"I realize that Jack, but I don't want everyone in the neighborhood knowing what you're doing to me for the next few days. You know out of sight, and they won't think of us being on our honeymoon."

"The next few days? WOW," he laughed, "You have little faith in me; we have years of lovemaking to catch up on," he whispered, smiling when he caught her blushing.

"You know what I mean; we get married, and then we spend the next few days in bed with each other," she responded softly making certain that no one else could hear her.

"Actually that sounds pretty good to me," he admitted.

"Well, it sounds good to me too; I just don't want people knowing that's what we're doing."

Jack couldn't contain his laughter, "Honey you do realize that your parents and mine did the very same thing…"

"Thanks for that visual," Elizabeth stated as she glanced toward the back door. Seeing her parents on the patio with her mother in her father's arms dancing, she turned back toward Jack, "Will we be as much in love with each other as they are in 30+ years?"

Jack put his phone down and stood; facing her, he held her hands, "You know, love isn't about how long you've been together; it's about how much you love each other every day. I can honestly tell you that I fall deeper in love with you as each day passes."

Her arms hugged his neck as she pulled herself closer to his body, "I love you, Jack." Glancing around and seeing the guests spilling back out onto the backyard she suggested, "Maybe we could drive around until we find a vacancy somewhere."

"No need; we're registered at The Breakers through Thursday," he smiled when he observed her excited expression. "Maybe we can do something special with Tristan when we get home."

"Well, should we go thank everyone and get ready to leave?" she asked. "I need to pack some things."

"No need, Rosemary packed a bag for you."

"Really?"

"Yes, and anything she forgot you can pick up in Palm Beach."

"What about you?" she asked. "Do you have a bag and what are you wearing to excite and entice me?"

"I do have a bag, and actually, I'm just going all natural."

She stepped closer and leaned into his ear. Giggling, she managed to respond, "I have a great imagination…it's already working."

"Let's go," he led her toward the back door, "Elizabeth and I want to thank you all for dropping what you had planned and coming here today to share in this special day with us."

Before they could tell everyone that they were leaving, one by one family and friends approached and hugged them.

"You take care of her this time Jack," his brother Tom practically ordered before stepping outside.

"Don't you worry about Tristan; she'll move on in with Lee and me, and she'll be fine," Rosemary advised as she hugged both Jack and Elizabeth.

"I love her Jack, so don't let me regret giving her to you today," Mr. Thatcher warned.

"I love her too. I've loved her since we met; you'll never regret today," Jack replied. "I promise."

Following all the hugs, kisses and well wishes, Rosemary pulled Elizabeth aside, "You're bag is by the front door; go and enjoy yourself, and please don't worry about Tristan."

"Oh my gosh, where is she?" Elizabeth called out as she began scanning the area.

Observing the frightened look on her face, Jack excused himself from Matt and rushed over to Elizabeth, "What's wrong."

"Tristan, she's missing…" Elizabeth frantically replied.

As everyone rushed inside, the concern for her whereabouts was eased when she was seen sitting on the bottom step of the staircase, her arm through the handle of Elizabeth's bag.

Seeing her cry as she held her Ugly doll, and the outfit that she arrived in before changing for the wedding, Jack and Elizabeth ran over to the stairs, "What's wrong?" they both asked.

"I'm ready to go live with Aunt Rosie," her words were barely audible through her tears.

"What are you talking about?" Jack squatted down and took hold of her hand.

Tristan wiped her nose, "I heard Aunt Rosie say that I was moving in with her. Will I ever see you and mommy again?"

The emotion in her words had everyone in tears. She held her doll tighter and turned away from the group surrounding her.

Jack turned her around to face him and Elizabeth. "Honey, you aren't going to live with Aunt Rosie and Uncle Lee; you're just staying there for a few days. Your mom and I are going to celebrate our wedding, and you can't come because you're in school."

"But daddy, I'm a good student," Tristan turned toward Elizabeth, "Right mommy?"

"Of course you are honey…"

"So I could miss a few days. Besides, you were already gone to Larusiana, aren't you missing me yet?" Tristan inquired.

"Of course we miss you, but honey…" Elizabeth began to explain before Jack placed his hand on her arm and silenced her.

"Pumpkin, how about this, you go to school, and do all of your work, and when mommy and I get home at the end of the week, we'll drive up and take you to Disney World for the weekend," Jack suggested.

"Really daddy?"

"Have you ever been?" he asked.

"No I haven't," she responded before directing her next question to Elizabeth, "Have I mommy?"

Elizabeth smiled, "No you haven't."

"See daddy, I haven't."

"Okay, then we'll start making our family memories, okay?" Jack offered.

"You promise you won't forget me…?"

Jack pulled her into his body, "I love you, Pumpkin. Your mom and I could never forget about you."

Rosemary stepped forward and took hold of Tristan's hand, "We'll have fun and before you know it your mom and Jack will be home."

"Aunt Rosie, he's not Jack, he's my daddy."

"I know he is, but he's Jack to me. Are you ready to go?" Rosemary asked.

Tristan hugged Elizabeth and Jack tightly, "Don't forget, you promised not to forget me."

Elizabeth hugged her tighter, "Never, you're our little girl, and no matter how big you get, you'll always be our little girl."

"Okay, have fun…" Tristan called out as she took Rosemary's hand.

Rosemary glanced in Elizabeth's direction, "Oh, don't worry, we'll have a blast, but probably not as much as you two…"

"Rosemary," Elizabeth's voice was stern.

Rosemary and Tristan walked out onto the front porch with Elizabeth close behind. Rosemary leaned in and whispered, "I've been married for awhile, but I know what a honeymoon is for, and you can't tell me that you haven't dreamed of this day…and night," she teased.

Elizabeth blushed.

"I hope I packed everything you need," Rosemary giggled as she and Tristan walked out into the yard on their way to their vehicle and Lee who was standing with the passenger door on his truck open.

"I'm sure everything will be fine. Hey Rosemary, I appreciate everything…and I mean everything," Elizabeth called out as she glanced down at her beautiful, unexpected wedding dress.

"It was a beautiful ceremony; now go have an amazing honeymoon," Rosemary yelled back.

Elizabeth glanced behind her and observed Jack hug her mother and then his own before stepping out onto the porch. Turning back to Rosemary, she called back, "I most certainly will."

Tristan turned around and waved to her parents before Lee helped her up into the truck.

"I'll be right back," Jack stated as he jumped off the porch and trotted over to Lee's truck. "Can I have just a minute with Tristan?" he asked as Rosemary slipped out of the truck and Tristan piled into his arms.

"I want you to know that I love you, and I'll be thinking about you while I'm gone," he stated, surprised by the emotions he felt.

"Don't cry daddy; I'll be a good girl."

He pulled her into his chest and held her tight, "I know you will be, but I'm going to miss you. Just remember in four more sleeps we'll be home, okay?"

"Okay daddy. What are you and mommy gonna do?" she asked, the look of innocence covering her face.

"Uh…"

"Well daddy, if you don't know what to do with mommy, she likes roller skating, quizzing me with flash cards and bike riding. Oh, and sometimes we play leap frog…"

"Don't you worry; I have some ideas…" he stated, smiling at his own thought, nothing I'm planning to do even remotely resembles roller skating or flash card quizzing. Maybe bike riding, and probably leap frog, he snickered as he turned back and observed Elizabeth still standing in her wedding dress. "You be a good girl and we'll see you in four sleeps," he stated as he held up four fingers.

Jack helped her up in the truck and watched Rosemary secure both of their seatbelts. They said their goodbyes and Jack stood just off the driveway as they pulled away and disappeared out of sight.

On his way back into the house, Matt stopped him. "Hey, I've done a lot of thinking about things, and I'll accept your offer to move here and head up the security business."

Jack stuck out his arm and shook Matt's hand, "WOW, this day is just perfect."

"Well, I don't know her very well, but I'm fairly certain that it is about to get even better. Your bag is in the car; go enjoy yourself and we'll work out the particulars when you get back," Matt stated.

"Hey, are there any paparazzi down in the canal?" Jack asked.

"Melanie Callahan is camped out on the dock, why?" Matt asked.

"I was thinking, she's one of the ones I was going to give our story to and that maybe in the least we could give her a few pictures," Jack responded.

Jack walked up to the porch to speak to Elizabeth, "Hey, one of the reporters that I was going to give our story to is on the dock; are you willing to let her have a few pictures?"

"Sure, but let's hurry…"

"My Elizabeth, do you have some place else to be?" he teased.

"No, not really. I was thinking about my honeymoon, but we've waited ten years; we're not in any rush," she teased back before he took her hand and quickly pulled her toward the backyard.

"Just a couple of pictures and we're outta here…" he promised.

After a rush of pictures were taken from all angles, Jack and Elizabeth promised to make an appointment with Melanie to give their story as soon as things settled down.

"Congratulations," Melanie called out as Jack and Elizabeth walked back toward the house.

As they stepped inside Jack asked, "Do you want to change out of your dress?"

"No, I may never take it off…"

Jack glanced around and finding that they were alone, he remarked, "I hope you're kidding, because in about…" he looked at his watch, "an hour and a half, there will be no clothes between us…"

"Well, I just think this is bound to be better than the flannels that are in my bag," she replied.

"When will you realize that in my eyes, you could wear a feed sack, and I'd still be turned on," Jack admitted.

"Am I interrupting?" Mr. Thatcher asked.

Jack cleared his throat, "Uh, no sir."

"I know you two are getting ready to leave and I just wanted to make sure that Tristan is covered for the time you'll be gone," he mentioned.

"Yes sir," Elizabeth responded. "Rosemary is going to take her to school and pick her up."

"Okay, if you need anything for her while you're gone, call us," her father offered as he leaned in and hugged Elizabeth. Before walking away he held out his hand, "Welcome to the family, Jack."

"Thank you sir," Jack responded as the two men shook hands.

Before returning to the remainder of her family, Julie pulled Elizabeth aside. "Hey, Rosemary left but she didn't tell us what we're supposed to throw at you two when you leave."

"Throw at us; you don't need to throw anything at us," Elizabeth replied.

"Does Jack have any rice in the house?" Julie asked as she headed for the kitchen.

"Julie, I don't know. Remember we haven't been living here," Elizabeth reminded her.

As Julie went from cabinet to cabinet searching for rice, she returned her glance to Elizabeth, "Oh, that's right. So, I guess there's no rush to get to the honeymoon. You've already tried out the goods."

"Julie, that disgusting, inappropriate, and so very far from the truth," Elizabeth gasped.

"Oh come on, you can tell me," Julie pressed as she managed to find a large bag of rice in the pantry. "Oh good, here it is," she stated.

Julie began looking for baggies when she stated, "You know why people throw rice, right?"

"No, but I'm sure you're going to tell me," Elizabeth stated, hoping that they were no longer on the subject of her sex life with Jack."

"It symbolizes rain which is said to be a sign of prosperity, fertility and good fortune," she mentioned as she opened the bag of rice and scooped some out into a baggie.

"Interesting, but we don't need rice…" Elizabeth stated.

"Well, you two have the prosperous and good fortune taken care of. You just need the fertili…" Julie suddenly stopped. "Wait, are you pregnant, is that why you two rushed to get married?" Julie asked.

Elizabeth's expression quickly moved from shock and surprise to devastation.

"I'm right, when are you due? I won't tell anyone…" Julie rushed over and hugged Elizabeth. "Jack has got to be on Cloud 9 to have a kid of his own. I mean I know he loves Tristan, but men may act like it doesn't matter, but I think every man wants to have his own child."

Elizabeth took a seat, and although she tried to tell her, the tears she shed made her words incomprehensible.

"Elizabeth, you look beautiful in your dress, you'd never know," Julie assured her. "If you're worried about mom and dad finding out, my lips are sealed."

"We haven't been together like that, and no, I'm not pregnant."

"You're not? Then why are you so upset?"

Her tears began again as she explained, "No one knows, but Jack. When I was shot, the injury…well, getting pregnant is very unlikely."

"Elizabeth, I'm so sorry," Julie apologized as she wrapped her sister in a hug.

In the entryway, Jack was antsy to leave. Glancing around it appeared that he'd misplaced his bride. Looking through the house, he found Elizabeth and Julie sitting at the kitchen table; both women were in tears.

"What's wrong…?" Jack asked as he entered the room and approached the table.

Julie jumped up, "Jack, I'm so sorry, I didn't know."

"Know what…?"

"I didn't know that Elizabeth can't have any more kids," Julie stated as she squeezed his upper arm on her way by.

Alone in the kitchen, Jack sat down at the table, "Elizabeth, look at me…"

"Jack, this is all wrong; I love you, I do…but you deserve so much more than I can give you. I mean, even Julie knows that you need a child of your own."

Jack tried to speak, but he was certain that every bit of air had just been sucked from his body. He tried to inhale, doing his best to force the oxygen into his lungs. He felt somewhat lightheaded, so he could only assume that the air was being blocked by the massive lump in his throat.

"Hey Jack," Tom called out as he started into the kitchen.

"Not right now, Tom. Ask everyone to give us a few minutes," Jack quickly responded as he watched Tom back out of the room.

Alone again, Jack's voice was stern, "Look at me…"

Elizabeth's eyes remained focused on the table, so his finger under her chin lifted her eyes to meet his.

"You don't get to make the decision alone as to what I need or don't need. I'm telling you that having you and Tristan is all I need. I love you both with every fiber of my being, and I'm not going to let you back away from me. Besides, the doctor told you that it was unlikely, not impossible."

"I know, but…"

Jack leaned in and pressed his lips to hers. They went from looking stern and feeling stiff, to immediately soft and accepting. "There are no buts about it. I know you love me, and I appreciate you being worried about how I'll feel, but you need to know how happy you made me today.

"Maybe not right now though, right?"

"Honey, I thought we'd resolved this issue a few times now. What happened?"

"Julie suggested that we rushed to get married because I was pregnant."

"Honey, she didn't mean any harm," Jack held her in his arms as his hand moved gently up and down her back.

Elizabeth leaned back, "Jack what about a surrogate? Then it would be your child."

"But it wouldn't be yours. Elizabeth, having a child with another woman is not an option for me," his plea was emotional. "You are the only woman I have ever really loved; I am so happy today, and our family of three will be all I will even need. I promise you…"

Elizabeth slipped into the bathroom to cover her tear stains before she and Jack proceeded down the line of family, kissing and hugging everyone. When she reached Julie, both women again began to cry but everyone, except Jack, assumed it was simply the emotions of the day.

Reaching the front door, Jack grabbed her bag at the entryway, took her hand and led her toward the garage and his car. He laughed when he realized that it had been moved to the driveway, and observed on the back window…

Just Married
Jack and Elizabeth
12/2/2018

"Who did this…?" he called out to those standing on the front porch.

"I did; well, Elizabeth's sister wanted to do it, but I suggested it be done without your last name," Matt admitted. "I put my foot down on the tin cans attached to the back. We don't want a lot of attention drawn to you."

"Forever my security guy…" Jack laughed as he opened the passenger side door.

Her bag is awfully light, Jack thought to himself as he placed it into the trunk. It didn't really matter to him, because as far as he was concerned, once they were in their suite, clothing would be optional for the remainder of their stay.

As Elizabeth sat in the front seat, she waved to her family, both nuclear and extended, but was quickly drawn to Jack when he opened his door and slipped behind the wheel.

He took hold of her hand and brought it to his lips, "You are the love of my life, and I am the happiest today that I have ever been."

"Happier than when you won the Grammy and the Oscar?" she teased.

"There is no comparison…"

"Oh, so does today take third place behind the awards?" she asked.

"This day shot right up to the top of my life experiences. It is the absolute best day of my life," he admitted. "Let's go get this honeymoon started."

Jack backed the car out of the driveway and the house was quickly out of sight.

An hour later, they pulled into the entryway of The Breakers in Palm Beach. It was night and the sky was dark, but the resort was well illuminated and the towers on either side were lit in green in honor of Climate Reality, a nonprofit organization that worked to create a healthy and prosperous future powered by clean energy.

He pulled up to the front door. "You wait here and I'll be right back," he suggested.

Ten minutes later, Jack walked out followed by a bellman who took their bags from the trunk. He handed his key to the valet before opening Elizabeth's door and helping her maneuver herself and her wedding dress out of the car.

Walking through the lobby, they approached the elevator, where Jack repeatedly pushed the button.

Elizabeth laughed as Jack's button pressing became more insistent, "Honey, do you think the elevator knows that with each time you press the button that it needs to hurry up?"

"I don't know; there's smart TVs maybe this is a smart elevator," he stated as he pushed the button once more.

There they stood, her in a wedding dress and him in a tuxedo, and even if no one knew who he was, the vision of them together drew attention from those milling about the lobby.

They were in a world all their own when the door opened and a couple, obviously just as happy, stepped off the elevator. Initially their eyes were locked on each other until the girl saw Elizabeth.

Paying no attention to Jack, she was initially drawn to Elizabeth's beautiful wedding dress and stopped to admire it.

"Your dress is beautiful," the woman stated. "Congratulations on your wedding."

"Thank you…" Elizabeth and Jack both responded, as Jack started toward the open elevator door, tugging her along with him.

"Oh wait, aren't you Jack Thornton?" the woman asked, stopping Jack before he stepped inside the elevator.

"Yes I am, and this is my wife, Elizabeth…" Jack stated as he quickly turned back toward the open elevator door, threatening it with his eyes not to close.

"Well again, congratulations. I'm Hannah, and this is my fiancé, Joel. We're getting married here tomorrow night."

"Congratulations," Elizabeth commented, "You're having a Monday wedding?" Elizabeth asked as Jack regretfully observed the door start to close.

As Jack eagerly pressed the button, the door refused to comply requiring them to wait for it to return to the lobby. Realizing that he had to wait anyway, Jack took Elizabeth's hand and rejoined the conversation.

"We were getting married next weekend, but I'm in the military, and we weren't supposed to be shipped out for another month," Joel advised.

"That all changed this weekend, and I have to report this Wednesday, so a fast wedding it will be," Joel advised.

"Well, I'm not in the military, and thank you so much for your service, but we had an impromptu wedding as well," Jack stated as he pulled Elizabeth's hand up to his lips. "If you love each other, the important thing is to just do it, and spend the time you have together," Jack stated as the door opened revealing a still empty, softly lit elevator.

Not wanting the door to close again, Jack led Elizabeth inside. "Congratulations to you both," the couple called out.

"Congratulations to you too…" Elizabeth stated as Jack pressed the button to the fifth floor and the Atlantic Suite with the oceanfront view.

As soon as the door closed, Jack smiled. He immediately pressed Elizabeth up against the elevator wall. Her entire body length was pressed against his as her breasts felt nearly flattened. She didn't move; she couldn't have moved, but the fact was, she didn't want to move.

With his body pressed against hers, she could feel him quickly becoming aroused, "I think your trouser snake wants out…" Immediately upon making the statement her cheeks turned red and she turned her head, embarrassed by her boldness.

"Are you nervous?" he asked, his voice was soft and caring. "Because if you are; you shouldn't be. We can take things as slowly as you need."

"I'm sorry; I can't believe I said that," she whispered, obviously flustered. "Jack, I love you, I want to be with you. I have a child so obviously I'm not a virgin; I know what to expect…" Her eyes were misty, "Only this time, I'm truly in love."

His lips met hers; they were hot, wet, needing and demanding. If there was any concern about her being able to turn him on, those concerns evaporated through the elevator vent as his warm breath heated her skin and his erection, hidden within his trousers, pressed against her.

Her prior comment finally registered in Jack's brain; he laughed, "Trouser snake, that's not one I've heard in a long time, but my God, it's certainly true. I guess we'll have to give him a name…"

"Him… you speak of it as though it's not a part of you," she childishly giggled.

"It may be on my body, but he has a mind of his own, especially where you're concerned, and right now, all he can think about is you…"

Jack's lips covered hers as his hand behind her head deepened their connection. The door opened, but with both of them otherwise occupied, and with no attempt to leave the elevator, the doors closed.

Her arms and hands found their way under his tuxedo jacket, and she grabbed a fistful of material, doing her best to pull him even closer.

Jack's hazel eyes caught her gaze and he lowered his face to hers. For the briefest of moments, her teeth seductively ran across her lower lip, stirring a desire that she remembered being her means of teasing him all those many years ago.

The next touch on her lips was the tender caress of his tongue. Her lips parted as his demanding tongue made gentle, yet playful contact with her own.

Embarrassed at the possibility of being caught she jokingly pushed him away, "Let's not get ahead of ourselves. We need to get to our room."

He smiled, and her breath caught in her throat. Her eyes lifted, meeting his. She leaned in, kissed his softly; her lips brushed delicately, gently yet purposefully against his. Feeling much like the flutter of a butterfly's wings, she remained just long enough for him to inhale her breath, feel the warmth of her skin, and taste the slight hint of the strawberry lipstick and gloss she was wearing.

As if to keep her from escaping, his hands held her head. He was completely mesmerized by her when the door of the elevator opened on the fifth floor just as his lips passionately met hers.

The hallway was empty and the soft light disappeared as the elevator doors closed and they continued to ride upward.

He kissed her like no other man before him had done. It was soft and moist, hot and breathy. He wasn't trying to prove anything; he had no battle to win. He was simply making a connection with the person who meant the world to him; sharing one breath, one sensation, coming together for a timeless and passionate moment.

His right hand brushed along her cheek as he held the back of her head while his fingers tangled in her hair. His other arm slipped around her waist as he tried to press even closer, as if that was even possible.

Again the elevator door opened and Elizabeth glanced out to see the empty hallway. "Is this our floor?" she breathlessly asked as his lips momentarily released hers.

"I don't know…" he responded as his lips again met hers; the passion and heat in the elevator was quite palpable.

"Jack, we've been here three times," her voice was soft and airy as the door on their floor closed again.

Jack's hand hit the control panel and the door opened again. He put his arms behind her shoulders and knees and scooped her up with intentions of rushing to their room. Tripping on the back of her dress, he placed her feet back on the floor before dropping her.

Standing at their door and finding the hallway to be quiet and desolate, Elizabeth pressed her body close as one arm slipped around his neck and her other hand ran along the inside of his thigh, "Open the door…" she whispered.

Jack quickly swiped the room card…red light. Again he swiped the card…red light. He could feel the heat consuming his body as he felt her hand settle near his crotch.

Aroused by her touch, he frantically swiped the card time and time again; each time he saw red lights. He was thankful when she took the key card from him and slowly swiped it obtaining a green color, and the door was quickly opened.

The living area was quite roomy with full length sliding glass doors overlooking the water. Bi-fold doors opened into the bedroom, and the balcony provided for the soothing sounds of the waves lapping at the shore.

"Jack, look…" Elizabeth pointed to the bed. "Did you do that?" she asked referring to the two towels shaped like origami swans touching at the point of their beaks and forming a heart. Surrounding them on the bed were red rose petals scattered about the mattress.

"Well, I told them that this was our honeymoon," he stated as he watched her pull out her cell phone and take a picture.

"Tristan will love this…" she advised.

Jack didn't want to let her go. Actually, there was no need for her to leave the room to change, for he was more than happy to help her out of her wedding dress; the expected flannel shorts and t-shirt were not necessary.

"Please, just give me a few minutes to freshen up," she asked as she grabbed her bag that was sitting on the bed and started toward the bathroom. "Uh, could you do me a favor?"

"Anything…"

"Could you unzip me?"

He stood behind her; his fingers of his left hand slipped behind the back of her dress, while the fingers on his right worked the zipper. As the zipper dropped slowly, she held the dress in the front, keeping it from revealing her breasts, figuring that they would be on display soon enough.

He leaned in; she could feel his warm breath on her neck, and her nerve endings came alive as his fingers brushed along the soft skin on her back.

Still holding the front of her dress she turned around. Pressing her lips to his she whispered, "I'll be right back…" before disappearing into the bathroom.

Jack took off his jacket and vest, laying them across a settee before lighting candles that he'd requested to be placed in the room. He had plans for this to be the most romantic night of her life, so he moved the settee and a table to the side of the room and turned on the stereo as soft music began to play through the suite.

Elizabeth slipped out of her dress, draping it over the shower curtain rod to keep it off the floor. She opened her bag, hoping to find her makeup, among other essentials.

What she found was her makeup bag, panties, but no flannel shorts. However, it shouldn't have shocked her, but it did, when she found a red lingerie set with white faux fur along the top of the halter bra, and along the front of the thong panties. Tossed back inside the bag she assumed that she would either be naked or asking to borrow something from Jack when she stepped back outside the bathroom. That was until she observed several items rolled up on one end of the bag.

She was afraid to pull any of them out, given what she'd already seen Rosemary pack, but feeling as though there had to be something appropriate for her to wear, she took the chance.

Realizing that a majority of her bag was packed with silk negligees, she accepted the fact that basically everyone knew that most of their time away would be spent in bed.

Seeing lingerie in pink, blue, red, maroon and teal, she made her choice, slipped into the garment, released her hair from its braid, and allowed it to fall freely over her shoulders and down her back.

Jack was standing by the open sliding glass door looking out onto the water when he heard the bathroom door open. Expecting to see her in flannel shorts and a t-shirt, which in his eyes would have still been perfect, his knees buckled when she walked out wearing a blue silk V neck negligee with a lace bodice and crossed ribbon in front that dipped low in the back.

The soft, smooth sounds of Kenny G were playing in the candlelit bedroom as he closed the distance between them.

"You are the most beautiful vision I have ever seen," he whispered as he took hold of her hand, pulled her into his arms and they danced.

As they slowly moved to the music, she felt his hand resting on her back as his fingers moved gently across her skin. "I love you so much," he whispered in her ear as the feel of his warm breath brought back the familiar feeling of butterflies.

Thinking back all those many years ago, and her assumption that Jack would be the first and only man she ever slept with, she leaned back slightly, "I hope you know I have never loved any other man the way that I love you."

Understanding that before they broke up it was always simply assumed that they would be together for life, he responded, "I know, and I've never loved any other woman the way that I love you. Elizabeth, we are where we were always meant to be, right here, right now, just you and me…"

His lips captured hers; his tongue was bold as he pressed through the seam of her mouth. Her lips opened wider as his tongue gently swept through the soft skin on the inside of her mouth.

His teeth tugged slightly on her bottom lip as he released her mouth. It wasn't painful; it actually had her wanting more.

With each kiss, the passion and desire increased as they sank deeper and deeper into each other. With his arms around her body holding her securely, his lips pressed against hers as he backed her toward the bed, stopping when the back of her legs met the mattress.

"I've dreamed of this moment for so long," she whispered as her fingers began to unbutton his shirt. As his shirt opened, her lips met his chest. She worked his shirt over his shoulders as she tugged at the bottom to release it from his trousers.

As his white dress shirt dropped to the floor, Jack held her hands and raised them to his lips, "I have loved you for so long; you have to know that you have always been in my heart."

"And you in mine," she whispered through tears and a smile.

Her hands reached for his waistband as he excitedly gasped when her fingers touched his abdomen and released the buckle on his belt. He'd dreamed of being this close with her, sharing such intimate moments with her, but he was ill prepared for the emotions he felt when the button on his pants was opened, his zipper was carefully undone, his trousers and boxers fell to the floor and she took hold of him by hand.

"Tell me what you want…" she leaned in and whispered.

As she stroked back and forth, his eyes closed, his heart pounded and his respiration rapidly increased. "I want this; I want you; I want…"

His body was warm, actually from the moment she touched him, he was certain that he was on fire, burning from the inside out. He was unable to finish his thought as he felt her lips starting at his neck. She moved down his chest; her tongue tracing circles around his nipples, as her hand, firmly but carefully held his shaft.

His hips moved back and forth causing some friction between her hand and his firmness, and as she continued to stroke back and forth, his soft moans made it evident that she held the power to his pleasure.

There was no doubt that the reality of her touch far surpassed his longstanding dream of them being together. Her lips passed his abdomen, and as he softly moaned, she replaced her hand with her mouth.

Given the pleasure she was providing him, he was concerned that he'd have little left for her. His hands on her arms tugged gently, pulling her up his body.

Her lips pressed lovingly against his stomach, his chest, and his shoulder before working her way up his neck where she nibbled lightly on his earlobe.

"Are you okay?" he asked, wanting to make certain that she was comfortable with what had already taken place.

Elizabeth smiled, "Jack, I love you and I want to experience everything with you."

His lips met the soft skin on her neck as his fingers slipped under the spaghetti strap of her negligee. She felt his gentle touch on her skin as the strap slipped over her shoulder, partially revealing her left breast.

His hand moved the material as his lips immediately covered her breast. Brushing across her breast with his tongue, much like what occurred when she sensuously pressed against his crotch, her nipple quickly became stiff and erect.

Jack's fingers under the other spaghetti strap slipped it over her shoulder and he appreciatively watched as the silky garment fell to the floor, leaving her standing in a pair of matching bikini panties.

His lips moved down her neck and across her shoulder as his tongue traced along her collarbone. Inhaling him, she closed her eyes, and rolled her head back while taking in and experiencing every touch, every sensation, every feeling.

Jack laid her back on the bed, scooting her upward so her head was comfortably placed on a pillow. He lay beside her; he wanted to touch and experience every part of her, but was afraid that in his enthusiasm that it would appear as though he was rushing.

Elizabeth could feel his upper body pressed across hers as his lips covered her mouth and his hands began to explore. With each subsequent kiss, the heat and passion exploded, as his hands on her body had her squirming in delight.

His lips worked their way from one breast to the other. While gently sucking and biting one breast, his hand covered the other as his thumb rubbed the nipple doing his best to keep each one satisfied with the attention they were receiving.

Moving down her body, his lips tasted the sweet and saltiness of her skin. He made his way to her flat, and toned stomach as he grazed his lips across her navel, watching her stomach rise and fall as her breathing became more enthusiastic. Elizabeth pressed her body closer to Jack, finding it impossible to be as close as she craved.

With a hand on the inside of her thigh pressing his fingers against her skin, he moved down her body, kissing her as he worked his way across her abdomen, and onto her pelvis.

She felt his warm breath as his mouth moved against her. His tongue was so hot, so wet; she'd never felt anything like that before. Her eyes remained closed as he touched her, teased her, and even tormented her. His touch brought about soft sounds that she had no idea she could make, and feelings she had no idea she could feel until her entire body convulsed, leaving her breathless and somehow floating somewhere above the bed in a decadent daze.

Jack worked his way back up her body, touching and kissing her skin along the way. Her body was warm, her skin was soft, and he blinked several times finding it hard to believe that they were actually together, finally married and making love.

Skin to skin their bodies touched from lips to toes. Passionately, his mouth took quick control of hers as his tongue pressed through the seam of her lips and she returned his kisses with the thirst of a desert traveler.

Jack positioned his body above hers. Elizabeth's legs separated as her bent knees cradled his hips. Slowly he entered her. It had to be a dream; to feel so close to someone; to feel so close to her, he knew he was in heaven.

It had been a long time since she'd had sex, considering her time with Tommy being as far away from emotionally fulfilling as she could be, in her heart this was her first time, her first true time making love.

Concerned for her he whispered, "Are you okay?"

"Don't stop," she practically begged.

He carefully pressed deeper; his hands, strategically placed on either side of her head, rested on her pillow as the sounds of jazz continued to play in the background.

His rhythm started slow, but as he felt her internal muscles tighten around him, the friction between them had his hips rocking quickly in and out as her hips rose into the air to meet him. He continued to fill her with a hard, pulsing and unyielding energy. With each thrust, he was crashing through the doors which contained all of her previously suppressed desires.

As her legs wrapped around his waist, crossing at her ankles, her moans of pleasure assured him that those desires were bursting through her with the power you'd expect from a prison revolt...

Their rhythm continued strong, just as rousing as anything ever heard within a Mozart symphony, with each thrust bringing them to a new level of ecstasy.

She rested her hands on his back and she felt his shoulders become tense as they climbed higher and higher. He pressed his lips hard against hers as her hips rocked forward, and he pushed deeper inside. She held him tight as he moved faster and harder, toward a dizzying climax.

Jack was exhausted; he rested beside her as both did their best to control their breathing. Neither spoke; actually words weren't necessary as their bodies had just spoken to each other in a way that was more beautiful than conversation would have provided.

He held her in his arms; her head rested on his chest as his hand tenderly ran up and down her arm. He bent down and kissed the top of her head, "I love you…"

"I love you too…" she whispered back as they both fell asleep.

As the sun began to rise the following morning, Elizabeth woke. Still wrapped in his arms, she slid out of bed. Walking across the room, she giggled innocently at the trail of their clothes across the floor. Still naked, she picked up his dress shirt, closed her eyes and inhaled deeply, knowing that what she smelled was him. He was her new favorite scent.

She picked up his trousers and boxers and laid them in a chair. She slipped into her panties, but having a choice between her negligee and his dress shirt, her negligee joined the other clothes on the chair.

She stood at the side of the bed and watched him sleep as she listened through the open door to the waves rolling onto shore. He looked so calm and peaceful, and she only hoped that she was the reason for the smile that graced his face.

She grabbed her journal and a pen from her bag and stepped out onto the balcony where she took a seat.

Thankful for this moment in time, she opened her journal and flipped to the next blank page. Never before had she felt so complete, so fulfilled, so loved. As tears rolled down her cheeks, she looked up to the sky, gave her thanks for the blessing she'd been given and then hoped to convey her feelings and emotions onto the temporarily blank page.

"As I reflect on my life, it has not been perfect, but it has been mine. It has been 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 acceptance; more time for forgiveness, and more time for love. Not until it is all taken away do we realize how priceless the gift of time truly is.

We waste so much of our time wishing our lives away. We wish to be older; we wish that Monday were Friday, and we wish that the love we found so many years ago had been cherished and not abandoned. Whether we realize it or not, we each need to reflect on the experiences of the past, allowing us to remember why they were worthy of our time to begin with.

Growing up in a loving family has many advantages, but one of the most awe-inspiring blessings is having the opportunity to witness the loving, respectful marriage of my parents. Lucky to be raised by two kind, generous, and loving people leads me to strive to emulate what they have, and what they desire to give back.

Changes take over our lives; some are good, some are bad, but all require adjustments. Marriage is the ultimate change. It is the combining of two lives, two hearts and two souls as they become united as one. They will then hopefully stand strong together throughout whatever challenges are forced upon them.

Besides becoming a mother, marrying this man is one of the biggest changes in my life. I am so thankful that God placed him in my path. I feel alive with the simple touch of his hand; he comforts me with his strong arms, and his love envelopes me always. I can only hope to strive to be as much of a blessing to him as he is to me.

In our lives, we should be certain to say everything in your heart, leaving nothing to chance. Say more than what is needed; do more than what is anticipated, and love more than what is expected. For everything in life is expendable, but love...love will outlast us all."

She closed her journal and stood up, laying her book in the seat that she had just left. Resting her arms on the railing, she felt the emotion stirring within her. Droplets slipped from her eyes as she felt the warm breeze quickly dry them.

"Elizabeth…" Jack called out from the bed.

So engrossed in the waves below her she didn't hear him. He slipped out of bed and searched for something to wear. Finding his trousers and her negligee on the chair, his choice of what to wear was fairly simple. He slipped into his trousers and walked out to the balcony.

Standing at the door, he observed her leaning against the railing in his dress shirt. He was certain that her legs went on forever, and there was no doubt in his mind that there was no lovelier sight than that which was before him.

He stepped out onto the balcony and slipped his arms around her waist. Startled, she quickly released the railing and wiped her eyes.

He turned her around to face him, "What's wrong; did I hurt you?" he looked as though the possibility of such would have been like a knife in his chest.

"No, last night was incredible, and sweet. You were loving and gentle and…"

"And what, Honey; what's wrong?" his hand rested along her jawbone as his thumb brushed away the few tears that remained.

Her head lowered. She took a breath as his finger under her chin lifted her eyes to meet his.

"Tell me what's wrong…"

"There's nothing wrong; things have never been so right, she stated as her tears began again.

"Then why are you crying; I don't understand."

"Jack, these aren't sad tears, they are tears of thanks, and appreciation and profound love."

Watching his confused expression, she continued, "Jack, all those years ago when we were together, I wanted you to be my first…" her tears began to freefall.

"Shh Elizabeth, I know that things happen in life, but truly the only thing that matters is that we're together. We're a family…you, Tristan and me."

"I just want you to know that last night felt like the first time for me, and in fact it was the first time that I had ever made love. I love you Jack…" she stepped closer as her arms wrapped around his waist.

His arms pulled her tightly into his body, "I love you Mrs. Thornton…"

She fanned her face as she walked back into the bedroom, "I'm sorry to be so emotional."

"Hey," he called out to her as he followed her inside. He took hold of her hand and turned her back to face him. As his own tears formed, he continued, "Elizabeth, you are an amazing woman. I loved you all those years ago, and if possible, I love you more as each day passes. You will always be the only woman for me, and last night…you rocked my world."

He held her as they both calmed and then she leaned back, "Are you hungry?"

A smile covered his face as he began to play with the buttons on her shirt which happened to belong to him.

"Well, you know, I'm not opposed to your idea, but maybe we need some nourishment in order to keep going…" she suggested.

Jack walked over to the hotel phone and called room service. He ordered omelets, pastries, and fruit, coffee and orange juice. "Okay, after breakfast, what do you want to do?" he teased. He then walked over to the door and removed the "Quiet Please" sign he'd left on the outside of their room the previous night. He put it safely on the table, feeling certain that it would be used frequently during their stay.

"Well, if I'm going to leave the room, I'll either need to wear my wedding dress or your clothes…"

"What are you talking about; Rosemary packed you a bag," he replied.

"Yes, but I didn't look inside until last night and apparently she had the same idea as you since all she packed for me were negligees and undergarments…"

He pulled her body into his capturing her lips. As he released her, he teased, "I can live with that…"

To be continued…