The wedding day has finally arrived. Thank you everyone for sticking with me and taking the time to leave reviews! Please, if you are not on the When Calls The Heart ~ Fan Fiction Facebook page, please join it. There are a lot of visuals for this chapter...along with a "little" project that I worked on to go along with this one. I hope you enjoy it. Next chapter...wedding night! ;)


October 23rd, 2009 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Jack walked through the barn one final time before everyone would arrive for rehearsal. He checked the new windows and plumbing, as well as a few new electrical outlets. A new room had been built in the back corner to be used as a dressing room and bathroom. The new floor had been stained and polished, as well as new stain on all the beams, rafters and walls.

Before leaving, he stopped in the doorway, taking in the scene. The tables and chairs had been set up, various sized paper lantern globes had been hung from the rafters, a single chandelier hung above the center of the dance floor, and strands of small globe lights edged the walls. White linens covered the tables where a variety of centerpieces sat; a mixture of lanterns, pale pink and white roses, hydrangeas, wooden boxes, candles, and jars.

Jack stepped outside and turned to look back at the barn. Seeing it restored to its former glory of how it looked when his dad was alive, brought a smile to Jack's face.

…..

June 1st, 1997 – Thornton Ranch

After repairing the hinge on the large door, Thomas tested it out by swinging it back and forth.

"Is it working now, Dad?" Jack asked as he and Tom walked up after tying their horses.

"Yes, it is. The hinge was broken. I just replaced it and viola...now it works," Thomas stated as he set the drill down on the tailgate.

"Anything we can help you with, Dad?" Fifteen-year-old Tom asked as he picked up the drill and pushed the button, making it spin.

"Sure. Let's go find some more things that need fixing." Thomas put his left arm across Tom's shoulders and his right arm across Jack's, and led his sons into the barn.

…..

October 23rd, 2009 – Hope Meadows Ranch

The evening after the rehearsal and dinner, Jack retired to his bedroom. It had been a long day and Jack was exhausted and anxious. Sitting in his bed, he pulled his journal out from the drawer in the nightstand and thumbed through the pages. Seeing his progress in black and white, his entries changing from regret and anger into faith and love, caused Jack to pause and say a prayer of thanks.

He stopped and read a few of Elizabeth's entries, pausing the longest on the worn page that read I will wait for you. He ran his fingers across it once more, remembering his fear of losing her at that time, and thinking of how far they had come. He turned to a blank page, near the end of the journal, and made one final entry.

…..

October 24th, 2009 – Elizabeth's townhouse

Elizabeth woke to someone tapping on her forehead. She rolled over to find Julie's face just inches from her own.

"Julie...why are you in my bed?" Elizabeth asked, followed by a big yawn.

"Because you are getting married today." Julie's face was covered by a large grin and her blue eyes glistened.

"You are as bad as a child on Christmas morning."

Julie sat up and bounced up and down on the bed in exaggerated motions. "I know I am. Now, let's get up, get some breakfast, and get to the salon."

…..

Jack pushed the button and started the coffee brewing. He pulled a skillet out of the cupboard, set it on the stove and began to prepare breakfast for Grace and William, who had been staying in his spare bedroom.

Grace appeared, and began getting place settings out.

"Omelets okay?" Jack asked as she poured a cup of coffee.

"Sounds and smells delicious, Jack."

William soon joined them as they sat around the island, learning a little more about their soon-to-be son-in-law and enjoying their omelets.

…..

Julie and Elizabeth were sitting outside on the patio, drinking their coffee, when Skylar came running out.

"Mommy!" She yelled as she jumped onto Julie's lap, almost causing her to spill her coffee.

"Good morning, Baby."

"Good morning, Bill," Elizabeth said, seeing Bill stepping through the door to the patio.

"Good morning, Beth." He pulled a chair out next to Julie and pulled Skylar onto his lap.

"She's such a daddy's girl," Julie said in between sips.

"Daddy's girl!" Skylar blurted out, patting his cheeks with her chubby hands.

"Are you ready to be a flower girl?" Elizabeth asked her niece.

"What fwower girl?"

"Remember what you did yesterday with Savannah? When you practiced with the basket and the flower petals?" Julie asked her daughter, pushing her out-of-hand curls away from her face.

"Yes."

"That's what you get to do again today. You're the flower girl."

"Goodie!" She exclaimed, bouncing up and down on Bill's lap.

…..

Jack walked through his barn, feeding and watering the horses. He stopped at Harley's stall and ran his hand down the horse's forehead.

"Hey there, big boy." Jack moved his hand down his neck as Harley stuck his head over the half door.

"Best horse you've ever had." Charlotte said, walking up to the stall and looking in.

"Hey, Ma. He sure is."

"I remember when you almost didn't buy him."

Jack chuckled, "That's right, I almost passed on him. I didn't want to spend that much money."

"And now?"

"I wouldn't trade him for a million dollars." Jack smiled as he patted Harley on the neck.

"Grace and William at the house?"

"Yeah. I think they are sitting on the porch, finishing their coffee."

"I'm going to go visit with them for a little while."

"Alright, Ma. I'll be there shortly. I'm almost finished here."

…..

Elizabeth pulled into the parking lot of the hair salon. She and Julie, with Skylar in tow, stepped out of her car as Rosie, Sam and Savannah pulled in and parked next to them.

The women chattered excitedly as they walked into the building. With each of them showing the stylist a photo of the hair style they wanted, they took their seats and continued talking about the day ahead of them.

…..

With the help of Charlotte, Tom and Lee, Jack served lunch to the Thatchers and Bill on the back deck. The group enjoyed the perfect weather along with relaxing conversations.

"You've got such a beautiful place here, Jack. I just can't get over these views," William said, looking at the trees and valleys in the distance.

"Thank you, William. One of the many reasons I love it here." Jack smiled as he looked at the same view. Then lowered his gaze down to what was now in the backyard. He couldn't wait to show it to Elizabeth.

"When will the girls be here?" Grace asked.

Jack looked at his watch before answering. "They could be headed this way soon. After their hair appointment they were going someplace to eat then coming here to finish getting ready. I should probably get going to the barn before they show up." Jack pushed his chair out and stood, picking up his dishes, he walked into the house.

Tom and Lee followed with their dishes in hand.

"Such a perfect day for this," Charlotte said, taking a sip of her tea.

"It is. Can't ask for better weather," Grace replied.

Jack stuck his head out the door, "Hey, Ma. Are you okay here? Beth just texted and they're almost here. We need to run to the barn."

"Yes, dear. Run along."

William turned to Charlotte and sat his glass of tea down. "I'm not going to lie. When Beth first told us about Jack and what he does for a living, we were worried. I just couldn't fathom what she could see in a bull rider. But, I am embarrassed to say that I misjudged him. Jack is a great man and I couldn't have picked a better husband for our Beth."

Charlotte leaned forward and laid her hand on William's hand. "And I couldn't have picked a better wife for my Jack."

…..

Sam and Rosie were stepping into their dresses when Grace and Charlotte walked into the room.

"Oh, you guys. Those dresses are amazing," Charlotte exclaimed, tears already forming in her eyes.

The sleeveless blush pink dresses fell above their knees and were made of chiffon with a lace overlay. The sweetheart neckline bodice was covered in pink lace that reached up to their necks. The backs had a large keyhole opening that reached almost to the waistline.

Elizabeth stepped out of the bathroom, her hair and make-up done, but still in her white bride button-up shirt and jogging pants. Her hair was pulled up slightly at the sides, pinned back with baby's breath tucked in, with her remaining hair down and curled into large loose locks.

"Oh, Beth. Your hair," Grace said, her eyes now glistening with the hint of tears.

"Mom, don't start already. You're going to make me cry and ruin my make-up." Elizabeth dabbed under her eyes. She took one look at her mom and gasped, "Mom, you look amazing."

Grace was dressed in a black, knee-length dress with half sleeves and an asymmetrical neckline pinned with a diamond broach. Grace had always kept her slim figure and this dress showed it off.

"Thank you, Beth. Where's Julie?" Grace asked.

"In here, Mom," Julie called out from the bathroom.

Grace walked in and teared up again when she saw Julie in her dress.

"I'm not getting married today, Mom. What's wrong with you?" Julie teased.

"It's just the whole day, Jules. You look beautiful." Grace said, patting her face with a tissue.

"Just wait until you see Beth."

"I know, I'm going to be a mess."

The pair stepped out into the large bedroom where Elizabeth was looking at her dress that was hanging from the door.

Grace walked up behind her and placed her hands on her shoulders. "Are you ready to put that on?" she asked softly.

Elizabeth laid her hand on top of her Grace's. "I am so ready, Mom."

With Grace's head next to her own, Elizabeth tipped her head against her mom's, both staring at the dress and trying very hard to hold back the tears.

…..

Jack walked out of the back room he had built in the barn, wearing his new jeans and white dress shirt, buttoning the cuff on his sleeve.

"How are you doing, Jack?" William asked, walking up to him.

"I'm good," he answered nervously.

William looked at him sideways. "Really?"

Jack chuckled, "I'm scared to death right now. It is all beginning to set in." Jack, unable to get the button through the hole, shook his arms out and drew in a deep breath.

William reached down and took Jack's arm, buttoning the cuff for him.

"I remember my wedding day. I thought I was fine until we were at the church. Then I thought I'd pass out." William laughed at the memory.

"But you didn't, right?"

"No, as soon as I saw Grace walk in, everything came into view and my nerves settled."

"May I ask you something, sir?"

"Of course, Jack."

"Do you think I'm good enough for your daughter?"

William placed his hands on Jack's shoulders and looked him square in the eyes. "Jack, I have no doubt that you are the one for Elizabeth. I can see the love you hold for each other in the looks that you share. You are a good man, Jack. Your father would be proud of you."

Overwhelmed by the mention of his father, Jack inhaled, trying to hold his emotions in check. "Thank you, William. You have no idea how much that means to me."

…..

"How are we getting over to the barn?" Julie asked as she picked up her flowers.

"I don't know. Jack said he had it all arranged," Elizabeth answered, picking up her train and laying it across her arm.

"Well, sis, are you ready to go get married?"

"Yes, Jules. Let's go."

Sam and Rosie walked out the front door, followed by Grace, Charlotte, Savannah, and Skylar.

"Horsies!" Skylar yelled as she stepped onto the porch.

Rosemary stepped back into the house, grinning ear to ear, "I believe that your chariot awaits."

"What?" Elizabeth asked.

"Come see."

Elizabeth and Julie followed Rosie through the door and looked out into the drive. Two white carriages, each pulled by a white horse, were standing and waiting in front of the house.

….

Jack pulled his black suit jacket on over his white dress shirt and black vest, and waited for Tom to pin the boutonnière to the lapel.

Tom looked up to find Jack looking at him. "You look so much like dad."

One corner of Tom's mouth turned up into a forced smile. "I had a hard time on my wedding day, too."

Jack nodded, "He's missed so much."

"Yes, he has." Tom finished setting the pin in place, straightened Jack's lapel, then dropped his hands. "All set."

Jack looked down at the pink and white flowers then back up to Tom. "Were you this nervous?" Jack held out his hands to show Tom how much they were trembling.

"Yes, more so I think." Tom grinned, placing his hand on Jack's shoulder. "You found a good one, Jack. Dad would have loved her."

Jack looked back to Tom, tears pooling in his eyes. "You think so?"

"I know so." Tom squeezed his shoulder. "Have you seen Mom with her? Just like Sam, she welcomed her to the family the first time she met her. I think Mom knew that our wives were the ones before we did."

Jack let out a laugh, "You are definitely right about that, brother."

…..

Jason, Lee and Frank stood outside the back room watching for William to give them their cue.

When they received it, Lee knocked on the door, "You guys ready? The girls are almost here."

Jack looked at Tom, his eyes widened and his eyebrows raised, "This is it."

Tom gave Jack one last brush over the shoulders. "This is it," he smiled.

The brothers stepped out of the room and joined the other men. Each of them wearing a black suit jacket, black vest, blue jeans, boots and black felt cowboy hats. The groomsmen wore black ties while Jack's was pink. They made their way through the barn and stepped outside. Jack took a quick breath, looked at his groomsmen, and nodded. They walked down the aisle between the rows of chairs that led to the arbor that Jack had made. They stood in their rehearsed places and waited, watching for the carriages to come into view.

After a brief threat of rain that morning, the skies had cleared to a beautiful blue, a few scattered clouds floated by. The leaves had just begun to turn and the meadow was surrounded by a palette of colors. The sound of wagon wheels turning drew everyone's attention in the direction of the approaching carriages.

Jack watched, waiting to catch of glimpse of Elizabeth, as his heart raced and his palms sweated.

The carriages stopped along the side of the barn, blocking Jack's view from the passengers in the second one.

With the help of the driver, the women and girls stepped down from the carriages and walked through the side door of the barn. Luke and Austin were waiting inside the barn with Bill and as soon as they caught a glimpse of Sam, they went running, yelling, "Mommy."

Grace and Charlotte walked through the open doors and down the aisle to the front rows, nodding and smiling at guests as they went. Charlotte had slipped her arm through Grace's as they walked, separating only once they reached their seats.

Frank watched Charlotte as she walked along side Grace; he was admiring her figure flattering dress. It fell just below her knees; the bodice and skirt were lilac satin with a plum lace covering the entire dress. The lace neckline fell across her collarbone and into ¾ sleeves. Paired with her nude sandals, Frank thought she was something out of his dreams.

Lance, a friend of Jack's, was playing his guitar and once the women took their seats, he changed to a different song and was joined by a keyboardist and a violin.

Sam walked out of the barn, followed by Rosie, then Julie. A vision of pink dresses paired with boots slowly made their way toward the arbor as instrumental music of Brandon Heath's Love Never Fails floated through the air.

Lee and Tom were smiling at their respective women, hearts full, as they watched them walk down the aisle. Tom remembering his own wedding day; Lee thinking of his future.

Bill sent the four kids reluctantly down the aisle, then pulled the barn doors closed. Savannah held Skylar's hand, both dressed in pink lace dresses and cowgirl boots. Austin, walking slowly next to his sister, nervously eyed the guests as they moved along, while the girls dropped pink rose petals on the grass. Luke, in his black suit jacket, jeans and black cowboy hat, quickly walked off ahead of them on a mission to reach his dad as quiet laughter filled the air.

As the guitar player began to sing, both Grace and Charlotte stood while the guests followed suit.

Love is not proud
Love does not boast
Love after all
Matters the most

As Bill reopened the barn doors, Elizabeth and William came into view as they stood in the doorway, illuminated by the sunlight slowly sliding across them as the doors opened. Jack could feel his heart beating through his entire body as she came into view; a heavenly vision before him. The sight of her sent his emotions out of his control as tears filled his eyes and found their way down his cheeks.

Love does not run
Love does not hide
Love does not keep
Locked inside

William, dressed in a grey suit jacket and jeans, looked at his daughter, his face filled with pride, as the two began to walk toward Jack.

Love is the river that flows through
And love never fails you

Love will sustain
Love will provide
Love will not cease
At the end of time

Elizabeth fought to hold back the tears as she saw Jack's face, his own falling down his cheeks. Her heart was racing faster than ever and butterflies had taken residence in her stomach.

And love will protect
Love always hopes
And love still believes
When you don't

Love is the arms that are holding you
Love never fails you

When my heart won't make a sound
When I can't turn back around
When the sky is falling down
Nothing is greater than this
Greater than this

Jack swallowed hard, then blew out a long breath through his lips. He wiped the tears from his face and eyes, clearing his vision in order to see Elizabeth clearly.

'Cause love is right here
Love is alive
Love is the way
The truth the life

Love is the river that flows through
Love is the arms that are holding you
And love is the place you will fly to
Love never fails you

In her ballgown, Elizabeth stood at the front of the arbor, her right arm through her dad's left. Jack could hardly take in the vision of Elizabeth in her wedding gown of intricate lace detailing that covered the bodice, trimmed the neckline and continued to the off the shoulder delicate cap sleeves. The guests were able to see that more lace framed the wide v-back, matching the front of the gown. A full skirt with box pleats and pockets gave the gown a simple but elegant appearance.

Jack's eyes were moving up and down Elizabeth, not knowing where to stop, trying to comprehend the beauty in front of him. He finally focused on her face to see her giving him a half smirk and moved her eyes downward. Jack lowered his gaze to see her lift the hem of her dress slightly and show off her new boots.

Jack let out a laugh as his nerves began to finally settle. The effect that this woman had on Jack always baffled him. She could send his heart racing, his mind reeling, and stomach doing flips…and at the same time, a simple gesture from her would send a calming peace through his entire body and put him at ease.

Once the music ended, Frank began the ceremony.

"Thank you, everyone, for being here on this beautiful day to celebrate the beginning of Jack and Elizabeth's life together."

"I've only known these two for a short while, but in the time that I have been blessed to spend with them and their families," Frank smiled at Charlotte, "it was clear to see the love they have for one another, for their families, and for God."

"Please pray with me as we ask for blessings on their union."

"Father God, we pray to You as one family, a family that loves and cares for Jack and Elizabeth. We pray that You bless their union today as they become husband and wife and that You always remain the center of their house. We ask You, Lord, to be present through their trials as well as their triumphs. Thank you, Lord, for bringing us all here today, so that we may all celebrate the marriage of two of Your children. And all of His people said..."

"Amen," echoed through the meadow as everyone said it in unison.

"Who gives this woman to be married to this man?"

William squeezed Elizabeth's hand that had been resting on his arm, under his own hand. "Her mother and I do." William kissed Elizabeth on the cheek, then took a step toward Jack with her and held out her hand to him.

Jack moved forward and took her hand in his. As William took his seat next to Grace, the couple stepped closer to Frank and Elizabeth turned to hand her bouquet of pink and white roses to Julie. Turning back to Jack, she saw him wipe his face again, trying to hide the few new tears that had escaped down his cheek.

Elizabeth could feel her nerves begin to take hold of her as her hands began to tremble and her heart raced faster. Tears were beginning to fill her eyes as she stared at her future in front of her.

Jack took both of her hands in his and gently shook them out, taking in a deep breath and blowing it out again through his lips.

Jack silently mouthed the words 'I love you' and Elizabeth returned the gesture, feeling a tear escape and slide down her cheek.

Jack reached up and gently wiped the tear away.

Frank opened his Bible to the marked page and began to read the passage.

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails."

"Just like the beautiful song that you just heard and these words from 1 Corinthians 13: Love never fails. We are all here today because of the love between Jack and Elizabeth, and because we all love them."

Frank looked between the couple. "Jack, Elizabeth, I want you to always remember this day, and how you feel for one another. Remember the strength of your love for her," Frank looked at Jack and motioned to Elizabeth. "And remember the strength of your love for him," Frank looked at Elizabeth and motioned toward Jack. "There will be days, as there are in every marriage, when you might ask yourself what you saw in the other. Remember back to this day, remember your feelings for one another, remember that love keeps no record of wrongs. Love can always bring you back to one another if something tries to pull you apart. Love never fails."

Frank closed the Bible and held it at his left side. "Jack and Elizabeth have written their own vows and would like to say them now."

Jack drew in a long breath through his nose and shook their hands again. Lifting them up between them, he began, "Elizabeth Nicole Thatcher, today I take you as my wife. From the first moment I saw you, I knew that I wanted you in my life. You invaded my dreams and my heart, and I've been anxiously waiting for my dreams to become reality. God brought you into my life for reasons we have already seen and others we have yet to know. You are my future, my best friend," Jack turned to look at Lee, "so are you buddy." Lee smiled, winked and nodded his head and pointed his index finger to Jack. Laughter filled the air as Jack returned his attention back to the laughing Elizabeth. "You are my forever. Because of you and the love of God, I have been able to find myself again and return to the man that my dad raised me to be. I promise to always be there for you, to protect you, to pick you up when you fall, to celebrate with you when you succeed. I promise to be your biggest supporter and to always love you like that."

Elizabeth sucked in a quick breath and a tear fell down her cheek. She couldn't believe he had remembered that conversation from the night they had returned to each other; the night she had fallen in love with him out on his front porch.

After gaining minimal control on her emotions, Elizabeth closed her eyes and took a deep breath, then reopened them, looking into Jack's hazel eyes. Her heart slowed only slightly as she began.

"Jack Ashton Thornton, you have opened my eyes to a world that I never knew I was missing. You have shown me a lifestyle that I never knew I wanted. There had always been a void in my life that I was never able to identify or fill. Once I met you, that void began to shrink until it had completely vanished. It was so slow that I hadn't even realized it was happening until I woke one day, realizing that my life was whole. You filled that void; you made my life complete. Ann Landers once wrote, "Love is friendship that has caught fire. It takes root and grows, one day at a time. Love is quiet understanding and mature acceptance of imperfection. It is real. It gives you strength and grows beyond you – to bolster your beloved."

"Jack, I will always be your biggest fan in whatever you do. I will always lead your cheering section. I promise to love you forever, until my last breath I take."

"Jack and Elizabeth have chosen to do a branding ceremony as a symbol of their unity. As a sign of their love for each other, the intertwining of their lives, and the fire that burns within their souls for one another, they will brand a piece of wood."

Jack walked over to a fire pit bowl that had hot coals burning in it since before the ceremony. Laying in the coals was a brand with the letters J and E. Jack grabbed the end of the long handle and carried it back to where Elizabeth was waiting near the corner of the arbor.

With both of their hands gripping the end of the handle, they pressed the red-hot brand into the wood and watched as smoke rose from where the branding iron sunk slightly into the soft wood and a small flame reached up out of the wood. They pulled the brand back and admired their initials that were forever burned into the arbor that Jack had made.

Jack returned the brand to the fire pit, but laying it into a pail of water to cool it off.

Once he returned to Elizabeth's side and slid his hand back into hers, Frank began again.

"The rings?" Frank asked softly.

Jack turned to Tom, who pulled a ring from his pocket and handed it to Jack. Elizabeth turned to Julie, who pulled a ring from her thumb and handed it to Elizabeth.

Jack, taking Elizabeth's hand in his, began to slip the band onto her finger. "I give you this ring as a reminder that we face this world together. We're an unbreakable team." Jack finished sliding the ring onto her finger as he said the words.

Elizabeth took Jack's hand and repeated the ritual, sliding the black titanium ring onto his finger. "I give you this ring as a reminder that we face this world together. Know that I'm always with you, behind you, and by your side."

Jack and Elizabeth stood, hand in hand, smiling at each other, anticipating Frank's next words.

"By the power vested in me by the state of Missouri, I now pronounce you husband and wife." Frank paused, looking back and forth between the couple. "Jack...you may kiss your bride."

Jack grabbed Elizabeth's face in his hands, pulling her in quickly and hard against his lips. He wrapped his right arm behind her, pulling her in tighter, as he raised his left arm up, removing his hat and holding it in front of them, blocking their kiss from the guests, as his eagerness grew in his lips.

The guests erupted in cheers and whistles as Jack returned his hat to his head. He took her left hand in his right, and the couple turned to face their family and friends, as Elizabeth retrieved her bouquet from Julie.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I am very pleased to be the first to announce to you, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Thornton."

Jack and Elizabeth walked down the aisle toward the barn, both smiling from ear to ear, looking at each other. As soon as they stepped into the barn, Jack pulled her back to the private room he had gotten dressed in.

"Jack, what are you doing?" Elizabeth asked as Jack closed and locked the door.

"I want a moment alone with my wife." Jack pushed her against the wall and took her face in his hands once more, pressing his lips to hers with eagerness. Elizabeth felt her knees grow weak as she wrapped her arms around his waist, trying to steady herself. Her lips parted, inviting Jack to kiss her deeper as his tongue danced with hers.

He pulled his head back, just far enough to rest his forehead against hers as he held her.

"Say it again," Elizabeth said, out of breath.

"My wife." Jack tipped his head again, kissing her softly and lovingly.

"My husband," Elizabeth said as she laid her hand over his heart.

Jack laid his hand on top of hers and the couple stared into each other's eyes, their foreheads touching again as they swayed to some faint music playing somewhere outside.

"I have something for you," Elizabeth said as she walked toward the door. She picked up a small bag that someone had set just inside the door and carried it to Jack. "This is for my husband," she said, smiling.

Jack took the bag and removed a small box that was inside. He slid the lid off and took out what first appeared to be a pocket watch. Once he popped the lid open, he could see that it was a beautiful compass with a photo of them inside the lid.

"Beth, this is beautiful," he commented as he turned it over in his hand, inspecting it. "Thank you," he said as he leaned down and kissed her.

"It's so you'll always find your way back to me."

"Oh, Beth." Jack wrapped his arms around her, pulling her body against his, as he once more captured her lips with his. "There are no worries about that. You are my home." He kissed her nose then stepped back slightly. "I have a couple things for you but they aren't here. I'll give them to you tomorrow if that's okay."

"Of course, Jack." Elizabeth laid her head against his chest and she enjoyed the warmth of his arms around her and the beating of his heart in her ear. "We should get back to our guests."

Jack let out a sigh as he stepped back and took her hand in his, leading her to the door.

…..

The guests mingled and conversations echoed in the barn. Most everyone had finished eating the catered meal of salad, garlic whipped potatoes, seasoned vegetables, grilled chicken osso bucco, and penne pasta with basil cream sauce.

The band was softly playing music in the background as Jack and Elizabeth moved from table to table, talking to each guest personally and individually. Jack's hand never left Elizabeth's as they made their way through the room.

It was time to cut the cake and the couple moved behind the small table adorned with boxes made of barnwood, stacked in a pyramid. An ivory cake sat on the top box, topped with pink roses. Cupcakes in a variety of flavors were placed on top of the other boxes and along the table. More roses, baby's breath and green fern leaves, decorated the table and boxes.

Jack and Elizabeth proceeded with cutting the cake and feeding each other the first bite. A bit of frosting covered the corner of Elizabeth's mouth and Jack kissed it away, sucking it from her lip.

They moved to the center of the dance floor, where a chair was waiting for Elizabeth. Jack removed her garter, then positioned it to sling shot it to the waiting single men. Jared jumped up just in time to snag it from the air.

Elizabeth tossed her bouquet to the group of single women. Her friend Abby leaped into the air and clutched the bouquet to her chest before taking it in her hand and shoving it into the air in celebratory fashion.

Jack and Elizabeth moved to the center of the dance floor as the band geared up to play their first dance, with a song that Jack chosen.

As the guitar began, Jack pulled Elizabeth into him, her right hand in his left. His right hand pressed into the small of her back, holding her close. He looked down into her eyes as the band began to sing the lyrics.

It was no accident me finding you
Someone had a hand in it
Long before we ever knew
Now I just can't believe you're in my life
Heaven's smilin' down on me
As I look at you tonight

Jack bent down slightly, his lips covering hers with a soft yet passion filled kiss. "I love you so much, Beth." Jack released her hand and wrapped both of his arms around her waist.

Elizabeth raised her hands to Jack's face, gently cupping his cheeks. "I love you, Jack Thornton." She pulled his face to hers, kissing him again.

I tip my hat to the keeper of the stars
He sure knew what he was doin'
When he joined these two hearts
I hold everything
When I hold you in my arms
I've got all I'll ever need
Thanks to the keeper of the stars

William and Grace watched their daughter dancing with her husband. William's arm was wrapped around Grace's waist and he pulled her in tighter against his side. Grace, with her right arm behind William's back and left hand on his chest, tipped her head against his shoulder, watching the couple lost in their own world. "You look beautiful tonight," he whispered to her then kissed the top of her head.

Soft moonlight on your face oh how you shine
It takes my breath away
Just to look into your eyes
I know I don't deserve a treasure like you
There really are no words
To show my gratitude

"I didn't think this day would ever get here," Jack whispered in Elizabeth's ear as they turned to the music.

Elizabeth tipped her face toward Jack's again, "Me neither. But I'm so glad it finally did." She smiled as his lips covered hers once more.

I tip my hat to the keeper of the stars
He sure knew what he was doin'
When he joined these two hearts
I hold everything
When I hold you in my arms
I've got all I'll ever need
Thanks to the keeper of the stars

Charlotte was standing next to Frank, only a few inches between them. She looked down at his hand and slipped hers into it. Frank looked over to her, smiling, as he squeezed her hand. The pair looked back to Jack and Elizabeth as the couple finished their first dance as husband and wife.

It was no accident me finding you
Someone had a hand in it
Long before we ever knew

Jack turned Elizabeth and dipped her. While holding her back, he leaned down and kissed her, pulling her back up without releasing her lips.

"Jack, that song was beautiful."

"It's the truth. I don't know if you'll ever truly know just how much you have changed my life just by being here." Jack covered her lips again as another slow song began.

Other couples flooded the dance floor as Jack and Elizabeth remained in their own world in the center of them all.

"Today was absolutely perfect, Jack. Thank you for everything that you did."

"You did most of the work," he grinned, showing off his dimples.

"Do you know what those do to me?"

"What?"

Elizabeth raised her hand to his cheek and gently brushed her thumb across his right dimple. "These."

Jack's smile grew, causing them to do deeper. "Oh, you mean those?" He teased.

Elizabeth closed the gap of only a few inches between their faces and kissed him, showing Jack exactly what his dimples did to her.

Jack pulled back when she finally released him, inhaling deeply. "Ready to go?"

Elizabeth laughed, "Jack, we can't yet. We have guests."

"They'll understand."

Elizabeth knew Jack was teasing, yet at the same time, he had a seriousness in his eyes that was pleading her to leave.

"She covered his cheeks with her hands and kissed him gently on the lips, "Soon, Babe."

As the song was nearing the end, Elizabeth glanced over and spotted something. She motioned over in the direction, catching Jack's attention, and he turned to catch his mom and Frank slow dancing. Just as the song ended, Frank gave Charlotte a lingering kiss. Jack grinned and looked back to Elizabeth, kissing her soft lips.

Just then, the DJ announced that it was time for the father – daughter dance. Everyone cleared the dance floor and as Jack backed away from Elizabeth, leaving her in the center, he lifted her hand to his lips and kissed her ring before letting go.

William joined his daughter as Butterfly Kisses began to play. William took Elizabeth's right hand in his left and held it up as he placed his right arm behind her back. The two began to dance and glide across the floor as if they were floating.

There's two things I know for sure:
She was sent here from heaven and she's daddy's little girl.
As I drop to my knees by her bed at night

She talks to Jesus and I close my eyes
And I thank God for all of the joy in my life
Oh, but most of all

William spun Elizabeth, pulling her back into their routine that they had done since she was a little girl. William had always taken the time to spend with his girls, and dancing had always been one of their favorite things to do.

For butterfly kisses after bedtime prayer
Sticking little white flowers all up in her hair
"Walk beside the pony, Daddy, it's my first ride."
"I know the cake looks funny, Daddy, but I sure tried."
Oh, with all that I've done wrong, I must have done something right

To deserve a hug every morning and butterfly kisses at night.
Sweet 16 today
She's looking like her mama a little more everyday
One part woman, the other part girl.

As his tears began to fall, William wiped his face and eyes. This caused Elizabeth's own tears to begin to fall again and she dabbed below her eyes, trying to save her makeup.

To perfume and make-up from ribbons and curls
Trying her wings out in a great big world.
But I remember...
Butterfly kisses after bedtime prayer
Sticking little white flowers all up in her hair.

"You know how much I love you, Daddy
But if you don't mind I'm only gonna kiss you on the cheek this time."
Oh with all that I've done wrong I must have done something right
To deserve her love every morning and butterfly kisses at night.

William kissed Elizabeth on the cheek, holding her hand to his chest as they danced to the remainder of the song, having a quiet, private conversation as the lyrics continued.

When the song ended, William led Elizabeth off the dance floor as Jack approached his mother with his hand out.

"May I have this dance?" He asked her as she placed her hand in his. He led her to center of the floor, spun her around and pulled her back to him. Charlotte tipped her head back laughing as Jack began to dance, leading his mother, to the song he had picked out for her.

She's the sky that holds the clouds
She's the lady of the house
A blind believer in all I dare to be
There's no safer place I've found
Than the shoulder of her white night gown
Oh I've got the best and the worst of her in me
And I'd share her if I could

Charlotte's eyes began to tear up as she listened to the lyrics of the unfamiliar song.

So the wars would all be over
'Cause she'd raise us all as friends
And no one would ever wonder if somebody wanted them
We'd walk on grass that's greener
And our cares would all be freer
If the world had a mother like mine

She's our father's one great love
She's the one he wanted most
She's the light in the window of the house I grew up in
She takes the midnight call
She's the bravest of us all
Still she sings in the garden she lets her hair down in

Frank, along with the rest of the guests, looked on as the mother and son danced, laughed and cried. A few of the guests wiped tears from their eyes, as did Jack and Charlotte.

"Your father would have loved to have been here today. He'd be very proud of you. I'm very proud of you." Charlotte dabbed a handkerchief under her eyes, trying to save her makeup.

"Thank you, Ma. Thank you for all that you have done. I know it wasn't easy with Tom and me after Dad died. Especially me. And I'm sorry."

Charlotte placed her hands on Jack's cheeks as they continued to sway to the music. "Jack, don't you ever apologize for grieving. You lost your father, your best friend. And I understand that. We all grieve differently."

Jack's tears began to flow as he wrapped his arms around her, hugging her, his face buried in her shoulder. Charlotte tightened her hold and they slowly moved to the music.

Don't go away
Don't go away from me
Oh I understand
She is a helping hand
Still I have to say

Grace and William, with Elizabeth in between them, each wrapped their arms behind her, holding her tightly as they watched Jack and Charlotte. Elizabeth was wiping her face with a tissue that Rosemary had handed her, giving up on salvaging her makeup.

She's the sky that holds the clouds
She's the lady of our house
We all need her
But no one more than me

Oh the wars would all be over
'Cause she'd raise us all as friends
And no one would ever wonder if somebody wanted them
We'd walk on grass that's greener
And the dishes would all be cleaner
If the world had a mother like mine

Once the song had ended, Elizabeth walked out to where Jack and Charlotte still stood. Jack was wiping his mother's face when Elizabeth reached them.

"That was beautiful, Jack." Elizabeth said, resting her hand on his arm.

Jack moved his arm behind her and pulled her into his side. Elizabeth ran her hand up and down Charlotte's arm as Charlotte finished wiping her face.

"Jack sure knows how make a person cry, doesn't he?" She said, letting out a small laugh.

Elizabeth pulled her into a hug, "You raised a good man, Charlotte."

"Please, feel free to call me mom, Beth."

Just then, Sam and Tom joined them. Sam, standing behind Elizabeth, put her hands on her shoulders, "Just give in now," she giggled. "It took me months to call her mom and she wouldn't let it go until I did."

"That's right. All my kids call me mom." Charlotte wrapped her arms around Sam and Elizabeth, "And my boys better take care of their girls or they'll have me to answer to."

"Yes, Ma," Tom and Jack answered in unison.

The evening continued with more dancing, more laughter, and a few more tears. Once Jack finally convinced Elizabeth that it would alright for them to leave, they began to say their farewells to all of their guests.

Everyone lined up outside the large barn doors where the horse and carriage were waiting to take them home. They held up sparklers into the night's sky as Jack and Elizabeth swiftly walked between them. Once in the carriage, Jack told the driver to go, and they waved their good byes as they traveled down the path that had been lit by hundreds of luminaries.

"Oh, Jack. This is so beautiful."

She sat nestled against him, his arm wrapped around her, as they looked out over the meadow and the luminaries lighting their way home.

Jack brushed his knuckles across Elizabeth's cheek, then lowered his lips to hers; tasting the sweet cake residue that remained on her soft lips.

"Are you ready to go home, Mrs. Thornton?"