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."

Thanks to my dear Heartie BFF LisaNY for your editing skills!

Chapter 14- Commonwealth Classic- Part 2

She watched as he exited his truck, tugging at the waistband of his jeans, forcing them to sit just right. It was Jack; she knew immediately, and she couldn't have wiped the smile off her face even if she had tried. She suddenly felt proud and even seemed to sit taller in the saddle. At this point, she knew that all she had to do was her best, and everything would be okay. It was always okay when he was there.

He caught her eye. Her heart stopped as she observed the way his lips turned upward, his dimples crinkled, and his perfectly aligned white teeth caused the butterflies to escape from the pit of her stomach. There was no getting around it; he was her sunshine, her blue sky, and pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

Elizabeth smiled back, almost forgetting where she was and the job she had to do. Jack walked to ringside and stood proudly. He had surprised her and she was obviously happy to see him.

Her group was called out to the railing. They were told to trot, then canter, and then walk before reversing and doing the same in the opposite direction.

Elizabeth's group was called back into the center of the ring, and the judge calculated their scores. Everyone waited patiently as the class winners were announced…

"First place and congratulations goes to #279, Bugsy Malone, owned and shown by Elizabeth Thatcher. Second Place and congratulations goes to #183 Spring Social, owned and shown by Stephanie Farnsworth." Once Elizabeth realized that she had won, and Stephanie had actually placed below her, the remaining placements were inconsequential. Essentially, Elizabeth and Stephanie were now tied for first place.

Elizabeth trotted out of the ring and quickly made her way over to Jack. He was smiling from ear to ear as he helped her down, and wrapped her in his arms.

"I'm sorry that I wasn't here yesterday. I should have been. So where is the doctor?" He asked.

"Who Chris? Don't worry about him, Jack. I introduced him to Stephanie, and it appears that they've hit is off famously," she remarked.

Mr. and Mrs. Thatcher were sitting on the other side of the ring, but watched as Elizabeth rushed to Jack.

"Honey, is that him?" She asked.

"Yes it is. I'm glad he made it. I could tell last night that she was upset that he couldn't be here," Mr. Thatcher responded.

"He certainly is a nice looking young man," she smiled as she observed the expression on Elizabeth's face. "She does seem happier since he arrived."

Jack's hand slid down her arm, folding over her hand. Their fingers laced together and their palms kissed as they walked away from the crowds…

"I'm so sorry, Elizabeth…"

"Jack, just shut up and kiss me," she demanded, as her hands crept up his arms, over his shoulders and behind his neck, pulling his lips toward hers.

Jack pressed his lips to hers. She tasted of strawberries and crème, which was quickly becoming his favorite lip balm flavor. Her lips were soft as a pillow and he felt that he could easily lose himself in them.

She felt dizzy as her breathing became faster and faster, and she swore that she was quickly melting into his body. They separated slightly and only momentarily before he covered her lips again.

As they separated once again, he rested his forehead on hers. His hands gently rubbed up and down her arms and even through her riding coat his touch caused her skin to tingle.

"I wish we were alone," Elizabeth remarked.

Jack glanced about and exhaled hard. Seeing people milling about her said, "Obviously we aren't."

"We need the exhibitors for the final Commonwealth Classic Hunter class to check in at the gate," the announcer called out on the loud speaker.

"Gotta go. Wish me luck," She headed back to Bugsy, mounted and started for the gate.

Jack grabbed the reins and stopped their forward movement, "I love you. Go and have some fun!"

She leaned over and kissed him once more before heading for the ring.

The second course was much more challenging than the first. It required more turns, deeper distances, and jumping one fence on an angle. As the thirty competitors completed their round, the top ten riders and horses were called back into the ring.

Stella and the Princess Anne crew were ringside when the ten finalists were called back into the ring. "Oh this isn't going to be good. I bet they have to change horses," Stella remarked.

Elizabeth was the only rider from Breckenridge that made the cut. As they sat in the middle, the judge walked amongst the exhibitors… "Number 293 exchange with number 314. Number 142 exchange with number 86. Number 267 exchange with number 285. Number 306 exchange with number 224 and number 279 exchange with number 183."

Oh flipping great, Elizabeth thought as she dismounted and handed her reins to Stephanie.

"Stephanie, watch the triple in-n-out. Bugsy will push to the right, so you need to be ready with your right leg to push him back into the middle," Elizabeth was trying to be a good sport and fair competitor, remembering the wise words from Stacy and George...

"I'm capable of riding your horse, Elizabeth," Stephanie gloated.

Stella called all of the barn members around to watch. "You won't believe this girl. She can really ride."

The next course was completed by the other eight exhibitors. Next up, "Number 279 please enter the ring," the announcer called out.

Elizabeth rode "Sophie" as if they had always been a team. She reached the distances between the fences, made each turn beautifully, and the jump on an angle was cleared effortlessly. However, a car backfiring in the parking lot caused Sophie to shy away from the railing. Elizabeth sat deep, and pushed with her right leg, causing Sophie to straighten before the final fence. However, Sophie took off over the jump a stride too soon, causing her to pull down the top railing. As she made her final hunter circle, she observed Jack at ringside…

"Woo Hoo, way to go Elizabeth! That's my girlfriend," he quickly remarked to whoever would listen.

The last exhibitor was Stephanie and Bugsy. Their course was fairly effortless until they came to the triple in-n-out. Stephanie did not take seriously Elizabeth's constructive suggestions, and he drifted to the right, just far enough to be off center of the first jump. Her foot hooked the standard and toppled the jump over into a pile of wood and poles.

Stephanie trotted out of the ring, jumped off Bugsy and handed Elizabeth the reins. "This horse isn't worth the money you paid for him."

"You're right. There is no amount of money that could possibly be a fair price. Sophie is a nice horse, but I'll gladly keep my boy," Elizabeth enthusiastically remarked as she ran into Jack's open arms.

"You did it," he whispered in her ear. "I'm so proud of you. You worked so hard and you deserve it." Jack drew back slightly as he cradled her face in his hands. His thumbs gently wiped the tears of joy that fell down her cheeks. "I wish Rosie had made it…she did promise me after all."

"Look over by the announcer's stand," Jack pointed as Rosie and Lee were waving erratically in their direction. "They got here just before your last trip around. We were all cheering for you."

Elizabeth waved back just as wildly, "They did make it."

"Don't celebrate too quickly Elizabeth. The results haven't been tallied yet. If we have a choice between a hack off and flipping a coin, you'd better flip the coin. You will have a better chance of winning that way," Stephanie nastily remarked as she grabbed her horse and walked away.

"Man she's a…" Jack stated before Elizabeth interrupted.

"You aren't saying anything that I haven't already thought. Karma will get her at some point," Elizabeth promised. "I would just love to be there when it happens."

Jack wrapped his arms around her, lacing his fingers together at the small of her back. Her arms gently worked their way around his neck as she wove her fingers through his hair.

"You're here; Bugsy is showing beautifully, so I've already won." Elizabeth proudly stated as Jack held her tightly, sneaking in a tender kiss under the watchful eyes of many spectators.

The announcer called out, "We need the following exhibitors back into the ring… #279 and #183."

Jack kissed her forehead, "I'll be right here when you're done. Go show her what you're made of." He gave her a leg up before watching her trot back into the ring.

George walked up to Jack, "Are you staying for the dance tonight?"

"Yes sir, I was planning to. Well, that is if Elizabeth wants me to," Jack remarked.

"I know she's glad you're here. A woman as beautiful as Elizabeth needs to spend her evening with her beau, not her parents. She did promise me a dance though. Is that okay?" George asked.

"For you…that's fine," Jack replied.

In the ring, Elizabeth and Stephanie were instructed to remove their stirrups. The judge explained what he wanted and called each one out separately. Stephanie took the railing first. She picked up a trot, jumped a 2' brush box and halted within six strides. She then picked up a canter and headed for the triple in-n-out. Sophie jumped beautifully; however Stephanie was unable to maintain contact with her horse. Although she did not fall off, the visual of her wrapped around her horse's neck brought gasps from the spectators.

Elizabeth was then called to the railing. The whole area was so quiet that you could have heard a pin drop in the sand. Elizabeth picked up a trot and effortlessly cleared the 2' brush box before halting in a perfect line four strides later. She glanced to her right, gauging the distance to the triple in-n-out. Knowing that Bugsy drifted to the right, her leg was ready to move him back to the middle of the line. He jumped the first jump perfectly which set him up for the second fence two strides later. One more stride, and the final jump was cleared. Elizabeth's equitation was impeccable as she finished out with a hunter circle before returning to the middle of the ring.

Elizabeth and Stephanie were released by the judge and advised that the trophy would be awarded tonight at the dinner. He wished them both well as Stephanie headed out of the ring first.

George and Jack were both at the gate waiting for her. She jumped down and immediately wrapped her arms around George.

"Thank you so much for everything. Whatever happens, I owe everything to you. You pushed me to learn to ride, not to simply buy something that did everything for me. I love Bugsy, but he by no means is perfect, and he's made me become a better rider. Thank you so much, George," she spoke through her excitement and tears.

"Elizabeth, I gave you the skills but you did all the hard work…you and Bugsy. Whatever the outcome, I couldn't be prouder of you," he kissed her cheek before placing her hand in Jack's as he walked away.

Elizabeth walked Bugsy over to the barn while Jack met up with Lee and Rosie. She had cleaned her stall, filled up his water bucket and thrown him some hay before Jack, Rosie and Lee walked up.

"Can I come in?" Rosie asked.

"Rosie, he's not going to trample you. He's a sweet boy," Elizabeth said as she held his head and allowed her friend inside.

Rosie approached her for a hug. "I don't know what this Commonwealth Classic Challenge Trophy thing is, but it must be a big deal. I heard somebody over by the ring talking about this dance tonight. It's quite something."

"Well, they use the dinner to announce the winners, and it gives people an opportunity to wind down. The horse show has been going on all week. The Commonwealth Classic is just the finale," Elizabeth explained. "You guys are coming, right? I can get you tickets."

"Your dad already took care of that. Lee has them and he even brought a tux," Rosie seemed impressed. "I can't wait. I never do anything where I need to get dressed up."

"Well, now you can and I'm so glad you guys came." Elizabeth wasn't sure if Jack had brought anything to wear, especially since she had never mentioned the dance to him. "Jack, I don't have to go to the dance, so if you didn't bring anything to wear…"

"It's all covered, Elizabeth. We do need to get to the hotel so we can all get ready though," Jack mentioned.

"I have my stuff in the truck. All of the finalists have several rooms reserved at the Hyatt Regency. It's some fancy introduction thing. I don't know, but I won't see you until the winners are introduced," she moved forward and pressed her lips to his.

"I have a room at the Holiday Inn on Rt. 3," Jack stated.

"That's where my regular room is," Elizabeth stated excitedly.

"Lee, you can stay with me and Rosie can stay with Elizabeth," Jack suggested.

"Sounds like a plan," Elizabeth remarked. "Here's the key to my room if you want to use it to get ready. Rosie grabbed it in one hand, and took Lee's arm with the other as they headed for the parking lot.

Jack hung back not wanting to say goodbye just yet. "So what dress are you wearing?"

"That my dear is a surprise," she snickered.

"Can you tell me what color it is?" He asked.

"It's white. Why?" She asked.

"Just asking," he replied.

Jack stepped inside the stall and closed the door. While Bugsy munched on his hay, Jack walked Elizabeth back against the wall. His hands were resting on either side of her face; they were so close that they were breathing the same air, and their hearts were beating in the same rapid rhythm. "You were beautiful out there and I'm so proud of you," he lifted his hand and swept loose strands of hair out of her face. "I look forward to seeing you tonight and spending the evening with you," he watched as she gently bit her bottom lip.

Nothing further was said as he covered her mouth with his, the combination of mint and strawberry was quite refreshing. He pressed his tongue gently to the seam of her lips as she opened her mouth slightly, welcoming him. His hands cradled the back of her neck as his thumbs gently stroked her jaw line. He leaned back slightly…

"Ahem…" The noise drew Jack and Elizabeth's attention away from each other as they glanced up to find Mr. and Mrs. Thatcher standing at the stall door.

Elizabeth quickly broke away from the stall wall and headed toward her parents, "Hi, mom this is Jack…Jack Thornton."

Jack walked toward the stall door extending his arm to shake her hand.

"Handshakes are for men. I prefer a hug," she stated as Jack obliged.

"Hello Mrs. Thatcher. It's very nice to finally meet you," Jack stated as he stepped back beside Elizabeth.

"Have you seen George yet?" Elizabeth asked.

"Yes, he's sitting with us at the dance tonight. Jack, do you need a ticket?" Mr. Thatcher asked.

"He doesn't need a ticket, daddy. All of the finalists get to bring a date on their ticket, so he's good. Thank you though," Elizabeth remarked.

Mr. Thatcher smiled, "OK, sorry to interrupt," he cast a glance in Jack's direction. "I'm going to leave now, but Elizabeth, you've only got a few hours before the dance."

"Yes sir. Jack and I were just leaving," she advised as she took Jack's hand and led him out of the stall.

Jack walked Elizabeth over to the farm truck and kissed her before heading over to meet Lee and Rosie in the parking lot.

Stacy dropped Elizabeth off at the Hyatt Regency. She walked in and was immediately met by the desk clerk, who advised her that the finalists were on the 12th floor. She was given a key and a bellman carried her bag to Room 1214.

She opened the door, "Oh, I'm sorry Stephanie. I thought this was my room," she stated as she looked back at the bellman for clarification.

Stephanie jumped up from the sofa, "No, you're in this room too. We're roomies."

Oh goody… "Okay, I'll try to stay out of your way," Elizabeth remarked as she had the bellman place her bag on the chair by the window. Elizabeth slipped him a $5 bill as she closed the door behind him.

"Let me see your dress," Stephanie demanded. "I'll show you mine."

Oh great…the I'll show you mine if you show me yours game.

"Elizabeth, that's beautiful. Is it by Vera? Marchesa? No, it's a Valentino, right?" Stephanie excitedly asked.

Elizabeth laughed, "No, it's by Cally Harper."

"Cally Harper? Who's that? Is she from Paris? London? I don't think I've heard of her," Stephanie asked as she ran her hands down the gown feeling the silk and beading.

Elizabeth took the gown to the garment pole outside the bathroom and hung it up. "You wouldn't have heard of her unless you grew up in South Philly, or went to Virginia Tech. She's a friend of mine from Tech. Isn't it just gorgeous?"

"Yes, but why?" She asked.

"Why what?" Elizabeth responded.

"Why if you can have a gown from any of the top designers would you want one of hers?" Stephanie suddenly frowned at her choice.

"I happen to think she is extremely talented and one day, when she makes it big, I can say that I have one of her first originals," Elizabeth replied with an air of confidence.

Well we'll see who gets the most attention tonight…Stephanie thought.

I'll put my gown up against yours any day of the week…Elizabeth thought.

The women went about preparing for their big night…

"Do you have a date?" Stephanie asked.

"Yes I do. As a matter of fact, my very handsome, personal police officer made arrangements to attend with me. How about you? Are you taking Chris?"

"Yes, I went ahead and invited him. He's out buying a tux now," Stephanie replied.

"Buying? Stephanie, didn't you know that the hotel offered the use of some clothes for those who didn't have a tuxedo?" Elizabeth asked. "I mean, some people didn't know that they would be going until the last minute, or didn't have a tux to bring."

"Elizabeth, he's a doctor. He has the money," she responded.

WOW, what a snob… "That's not the point. Never mind, it's none of my business, but Chris is a friend of mine."

"Tell me about this man of yours?" Stephanie sat on the side of her bed as she watched Elizabeth empty her bag.

"He's not my man. Actually he's his own man. I don't own him," Elizabeth snapped back.

"Oh and he's a cop? How quaint," She asked and answered her own question. "You know I was dating Blake Darden, the weatherman on the channel 8 news, but I recently broke up with him.

Elizabeth had had enough of her holier than thou attitude, "Oh, I thought it came out that he was gay."

Stephanie gasped, "That was a rumor, but totally untrue."

Elizabeth headed for the shower, "Well Stephanie, please be nice to Chris. I think he really likes you." She walked into the bathroom, closed the door, and turned on the shower. Why, of all the people I have to share with, why does it have to be her? What have I done Lord?

Elizabeth stepped out of the shower, wrapped a towel around her and walked out into the room. There sitting on her bed was a box, "What's this?"

"It was delivered while you were in the shower," Stephanie replied.

"What does yours look like," Elizabeth asked assuming that all of the finalists received them.

"I didn't get one. That's from your cop," Stephanie stated enviously.

Elizabeth smiled, "He's a police officer, Stephanie, and a great guy."

"Sorry…oh, they called from the committee. We have to be downstairs at 7pm," Stephanie advised.

Elizabeth looked at her watch, "Hmm, 6:10. Okay, I'm done in the bathroom if you need to take a shower."

"It's beautiful," Elizabeth smiled as she opened the box to pull out a corsage consisting of red and white roses. She lifted the wrist corsage up to her nose and inhaled its fragrance. Inside the box was also a small card which contained the following…
"I once thought my life was full,
then you came waltzing in,
I love you so,
don't want to ever let you go,
No matter what, I win!"

"A limerick," Elizabeth burst out laughing.

"What's so funny?" Stephanie asked, as the curiosity was killing her.

"Nothing, it's just Jack is so funny!" Elizabeth continued laughing as she held the card up to her chest.

Elizabeth sat on her bed, pulled her journal from her bag and smiled.

"What's that?" Stephanie asked.

"It's a journal. I… never mind," Elizabeth replied.

Stephanie grabbed her shower supplies and under clothes and headed for the shower, "What could you possibly have to write about?" She said under her breath.

Elizabeth barely heard her comment, "Karma take care of this please…" She returned to her journal and tried to find the happy spot she was in before Stephanie so rudely ruined it.

"Excitement courses through my veins spreading warmth, like going to Grandma's on a warm Sunday afternoon. For future reference, my mind attempts to capture every detail, from the most mundane to the grandest; for if it cannot be recalled at a later date, it's as if it never occurred. Through hard work and determination we have accomplished what some may have thought to be impossible. No matter what happens tonight, I have the love and support of my friends, family and a wonderful man, and will forever feel like a winner. I am truly blessed to have someone who can make my day brighter, my problems seem minute, and my heart beat faster, especially at a time when I didn't care if it beat at all."

As Elizabeth sat her journal on the table, her phone sounded with a text…

"I miss u, Rebecca…"

"Funny, I miss u 2, Jake…"

"Seriously, did u get my surprise…?"

"I did. Jack its beautiful…"

"How did u like the poem…?"

"The limerick was precious…"

"Well, at least it didn't start out, there once was a girl from Nantucket…"

"Yes, thank u 4 that…"

"I'm here, Can't wait 2 dance w/ u. Hurry down…"

"We have to b downstairs by 7..."

"Its 7 now…"

"Jack, its 6:25. C u in 35 minutes…" She finished her text with a smiley face blowing a kiss.

Elizabeth slipped into her Cally Harper original. It was white silk with a v-neck beaded bodice, and thin spaghetti straps. It had a full skirt that seemed to flow whenever she moved. The color popped as it accentuated the remainder of her deep summer tan, and the wrist corsage from Jack of red and white roses added just enough color. She added pearl stud earrings and a simple gold chain to finish off the look. Elizabeth brushed out her hair, pulling it up on the side with clips, as she allowed the remainder to cascade over her shoulders.

It was now 6:50 pm and Elizabeth grabbed her purse and headed for the door. "Are you ready or will you come down on your own?"

Stephanie was slipping on her shoes, "I'm ready."

The door opened and both women stepped out into the hallway. They met up with the other eight finalists and everyone rode down in the elevator together. They stepped out of the elevator and were ushered down the hall toward the back of the ballroom. Elizabeth's eyes darted through open doors, hoping to catch a glimpse of Jack. Alas, the ballroom was packed but she was unable to locate him.

They were advised that the announcement of the winners would be made first. As each placement was announced, the winner would enter the ballroom and take a seat on the stage. It was evident that the top two places would be going to Elizabeth and Stephanie, and most of the other finalists had their ideas who would be coming out on top.

Jack was standing in the middle of the ballroom watching, hoping to see Elizabeth. He was approached by Jonathan Berkshire, the Commonwealth Classic coordinator. Jack was pulled to the front table to join the dates of the other finalists.

"The program will be starting in about ten minutes. Feel free to mingle but be certain to be back in your seats by 7 pm," Jonathan advised.

Jack waved to Lee and Rosie but since there were only eight minutes before the start of the program, he decided to stay put.

The lights in the ballroom began to blink signifying that the start of the program was only moments away. Jack took his seat, with an empty seat between him and Chris, Stephanie's date. There was also an empty seat on the other side, with that finalist's date sitting one seat down. He couldn't wait to have Elizabeth sitting next to him.

The lights went out and the spotlight focused on the stage. The MC for the evening was Trey Porter, a graduate of the Hurrah Players theatrical group.

Trey stepped out and engaged the crowd with his eloquent prose. He broke the crowd up with his jokes and storytelling before beginning the night's festivities…
"Ladies and Gentlemen, Good evening and welcome to the 15th annual Commonwealth Classic Dinner and Dance. I had the pleasure of watching some of the Commonwealth Classic today and it was without a doubt one of the most exciting events that I've witnessed in quite some time. So, without further adieu, I present to you the coordinator of all things pertaining to this horse show… Jonathan Berkshire."

Jonathan took to the stage holding the envelope that held the names of the winners. "Instead of holding you in suspense all night, we have decided to announce the winners first, and then you can enjoy the rest of your evening. So, I will call out the winners from 10th place to 1st place. Please hold your applause until all of the winners are on the stage."

He opened the envelope and took a deep breath. "Okay, ladies and gentlemen, the winners of the 2016 Commonwealth Classic are as follows…

In 10th place…Tish Wasteneys
In 9th place…Baylee Gorman
In 8th place…Elizabeth (Jack felt his breath catch in his chest) Parker
In 7th place…Hope Thayer
In 6th place…Spencer Harrison
In 5th place…Scarlet Barnes
In 4th place…Hailey Brown
In 3rd place…Carrie Baydush

"Okay, in 2nd place…" music was playing as he held off, adding to the suspense, "Stephanie Farnsworth."

The Breckenridge farm crew, Lee, Rosie, George and Mr. and Mrs. Thatcher were on their feet cheering, only their voices paled in comparison to Jack's. He was on his feet, a smile from ear to ear, clapping his hands, as he looked around and saw the number of people who obviously cared for Elizabeth and were excited for her win.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to introduce to you the winner of the prestigious Commonwealth Challenge Trophy…Elizabeth Thatcher."

Jack watched the side of the stage for Elizabeth to appear. Suddenly he saw her and he found it difficult to catch his breath. He watched as they presented her with a trophy that was almost as tall as her. She was unable to hold it and simply posed for pictures while leaning up against it.

Jack couldn't take his eyes off of her. He knew she was beautiful and was very familiar with the term knees buckling. However, when she walked out on to the stage, he quickly realized what the term meant, as he found himself falling back into his seat.

Elizabeth's eyes were set on Jack. She was called out several times as the photographers found it difficult to maintain her attention. She had never seen him dressed in anything other than casual attire or his uniform. However, she had to admit that Jack seeing her in a gown would be a surprise to him as well. She smiled at his nervousness, as he kept fidgeting with his cummerbund. She was rushing to finish the photos, wanting nothing more than to wrap herself in his strong arms. He had quickly become her sun, and she was certainly beginning to feel his warmth.

The Commonwealth Challenge Trophy was not something she kept. However, Elizabeth's and Bugsy's names would be engraved on the plate, and if she won it twice more, it would be hers to keep. As winner of the Commonwealth Classic, Elizabeth was also awarded a Marcel Toulouse Premia saddle, saddle pad, and a cooler for Bugsy with the shows insignia on the side.

Finally, Elizabeth and the other winners had completed their photo obligations. Jack approached the stage and held out his hand to help her down the stairs.

"You are absolutely breathtaking," his words brought a bright smile to her face.

"Jack, I have never seen you looking more dashing," she wrapped her arm through his as they headed for their table.

Jack pulled Elizabeth's chair out, and slid it back toward the table once she had taken her seat. He sat beside her, bringing her hand up to his lips…

"Oh Elizabeth, this must be your friend," Stephanie snarkily remarked.

Elizabeth released a hard breath through her nose, "Stephanie, this is Jack…Jack Thornton. Jack, this is Stephanie Farnsworth, and you already know her date, Dr. Chris Warren."

Everyone took their seats as the wait staff started delivering their meals. Elizabeth tried to ignore Stephanie's attention toward Jack, but had had enough…

"I need to go to the restroom," Elizabeth stated as she stood, but not before Jack jumped up and pulled her chair out for her. "Thank you, Jack. Stephanie, don't you want to go?"

"No, I'm fine right here," she replied.

Elizabeth gently took her by the arm, "You need to powder your nose."

Jack remained standing until the two women had left the table. He was feeling a bit flustered by all of the attention Stephanie was giving him, and all he wanted to do was to find a quiet place to spend some time alone with Elizabeth.

Elizabeth and Stephanie walked into the bathroom and found themselves alone…

"Stephanie, I know that we are not the best of friends. Actually, we just tolerate each other and that's fine. I have no desire to be your BFF. I have tried to overlook the attention you have thrown toward my date, even with yours sitting right beside you. However, when you take your knife, slice and butter Jack's biscuit for him, I think we have a problem. He is a grown man, and if anyone will be buttering his bread, or anything else for that matter, it will be me. Do you understand?" Elizabeth stated as she unwrapped a plastic cup that was sitting on the counter and filled it with water.

"Elizabeth, there's no need to be snippy. I was just trying to be nice," Stephanie remarked.

"I'm not interested in your kind of nice, and neither is Jack," Elizabeth advised.

Elizabeth started for the door but turned back when Stephanie called her name…

"Elizabeth, you can handle little boys but it takes a woman like me to handle a man like Jack," Stephanie was fixing her makeup while looking at Elizabeth in the mirror.

"Stephanie," Elizabeth called out causing her to turn around. "You need to cool off," Elizabeth demanded as she threw her cup of water in Stephanie's face.

Elizabeth walked to the door and held it open as two other women entered before she exited.

"Oh my, what happened here?" Elizabeth heard one of the women remark before the door closed.

On her way back to the table, Elizabeth was stopped several times by friends and acquaintances congratulating her on her win. She and Stephanie made it back to the table at the same time, and although Stephanie had repaired most of the water damage, the impact was still evident.

Jack leaned over and whispered, "What happened in there?"

"Just an unfortunate plumbing issue," she replied with a smile of satisfaction. "I think it's resolved now."

Jack and Elizabeth took to the dance floor. As winner of the prestigious Commonwealth Classic Challenge Trophy, Elizabeth and her date danced the first dance. The band, Hotcakes, started the set with a slow song, "Always and Forever" by Luther Vandross. Jack stood and held out his hand, which she gladly took. He walked her to the center of the dance floor.

The applause of the audience died down as they attempted to ignore the stares they received. Jack placed his left hand on her hip; she placed her right hand on his shoulder, and their free hands finally met. They quickly lost sight of all the remaining occupants in the room and their eyes were locked on each other.

Toward the end of the song, more couples descended upon the dance floor. The next song started, another slow one, an oldie but goody, "The Way You Look Tonight" by Frank Sinatra.

As the song began, Jack felt a tap on his shoulder, "Would you mind if I danced with my daughter?"

Jack smiled and placed her hand in his as he excused himself and went back to his seat. Elizabeth thought back to the times with her father as she would stand on his feet and they would dance around their living room. Although she enjoyed her time with her father, her eyes were set on Jack and her desire to get back to him.

The next song began and Elizabeth satisfied her promise to dance with George. Following this song, George walked her back to her table. Jack stood as they approached…

"Thank you Elizabeth for a lovely dance. Jack, thank you for the opportunity to dance with your beautiful date," George kissed her on the cheek and returned to the table with her parents.

"Are you tired or do you feel like dancing more?" He asked as he held out his hand.

"If I'm dancing with you, I could dance all night," she took his hand and they headed for the dance floor.

In the middle of the next song, "I knew I loved You" by Savage Garden, Elizabeth was tapped on the shoulder.

"Given what happened in the bathroom, you owe me this…" Stephanie started to comment.

"I don't owe you anything," Elizabeth responded and turned back to Jack.

Stephanie tapped Elizabeth on the shoulder again, "You've only been to the finals this time, so you may not know what is expected here. We're supposed to exchange partners sometime this evening for a dance. Maybe we should do it now?"

Elizabeth was shocked. She had never heard of such a thing, and certainly didn't believe her. "Stephanie, Jack is my date for the evening and unless he tells me otherwise, I intend to dance with him."

Jack pulled her in tight to his body, "No, I'm good. Excuse us, the music is calling."

Stephanie was humiliated. She turned around and looked for Chris who had since given up trying to be her date. She saw him dancing with Stacy, which only added to her humiliation.

"Karma is a wonderful thing," Elizabeth stated as she pulled herself into his chest. His arms held her tightly and she felt so safe and secure.

Jack pressed his lips to her cheek and then whispered, "Of all the things I have ever held in my arms, you are by far the most precious."

To be continued…