Thank you everyone, for your lovely reviews. I enjoy reading them all so keep 'em coming! And once again, there are a couple steam alerts in this one!

***STEAM ALERT***STEAM ALERT***STEAM ALERT***STEAM ALERT***STEAM ALERT***STEAM ALERT***STEAM ALERT***STEAM ALERT***STEAM ALERT***STEAM ALERT***STEAM ALERT***STEAM ALERT***STEAM ALERT***STEAM ALERT***STEAM ALERT***


June 30th, 2010 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Jack wrapped his arms around Elizabeth and spun her around. Carefully lowering her, he looked at her with fear in his eyes. "I'm sorry. Are you okay?"

Laughing, she replied, "Yes, Jack. I'm not a porcelain doll."

Elizabeth continued to laugh as he picked her back up and spun her around again. Jack's face lit up with the smile that spread throughout, tears still falling down his cheeks.

Setting her down, he asked, "When did you find out?"

"Just today. I was cleaning the bathroom upstairs and realized that I missed my last period. I hadn't even noticed. I rushed to the store and bought the tests."

Looking back at the plastic stick he still held in his hand, Jack read it once more. "Are these things accurate?"

Nodding, she replied, "Yes, they are quite accurate. But we will go to the doctor to be sure."

Setting the test and boots on the counter, Jack cupped her face in his hands and covered her lips with his. After what felt like an eternity of slow, loving kisses, Jack pulled back for air.

"This is amazing, Beth. Just...amazing."

"I'm glad you're happy," she replied, smiling, tears forming in her eyes.

"Of course, I'm happy. I'm ecstatic." Moving his hands to the front of her belly, he continued, "There is a beautiful life in here. A piece of me and a piece of you." Moving to his knees, he pressed his cheek against her stomach and wrapped his arms around her waist as Elizabeth weaved her fingers into his hair. Whispering, he said, "I can't wait to meet you."

…..

July 6th, 2010 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Elizabeth picked up her phone and pressed call next to Julie's name.

"Hey, there, Sis," Julie said before Elizabeth even heard it ring.

"Hi. How are you doing?"

"Fat!" Julie exclaimed.

"Only, what, three weeks left?"

"Yes. Three...long...weeks."

"The baby will be here before you know it."

"I sure hope so. I'd like to see my feet again. You'd think there were four of them in there. But we are cursed with big babies I'm afraid."

"Oh, great," Elizabeth said, thinking of her own future birth, not looking forward to the long, drawn-out labor that both of her sisters had endured.

"So, when will you be so blessed to have an overgrown belly, swollen ankles and ripped wide open?"

Gasping, Elizabeth responded, "Julie, there is such a thing as TMI."

Laughing, Julie replied, "Not for you, my sister!"

"Let me know as soon as your labor starts so I can fly out there."

"Really? You're coming here?"

"Yes, I missed your first one. I'm not missing this one."

"That would be great." Pausing briefly, Julie added, "You didn't answer me."

"About what?"

"When are you going through this?"

Hesitating to answer, debating whether to tell anyone yet or not, Elizabeth finally said, "Sooner than later."

"What does that me...wait. What? Are you?"

"Yes."

"Beth!"

"Yes?"

"That's so exciting. Our kids will be so close in age!" Julie's voice grew several decibels in volume and a raised few octaves higher.

"Keep it to yourself, please. Jack and I haven't told anyone yet. We've only known a week and our doctor's appointment is next week."

"My lips are sealed, Beth. I am so happy for the two of you."

"Thank you. We've been trying since February. I was beginning to think something was wrong with me."

"Do you have any idea how long we tried for Skylar?"

"No."

"Eight months. Eight months of heartbreak, disappointment, fear...and then it finally happened."

"I know exactly how you feel. I know it was only four months for us, but it felt like an eternity."

"Beth, don't shortfall your personal pain. Four months, eight months, heartbreak is heartbreak."

Elizabeth's tears began to fall at this moment, listening to the wisdom from her little sister.

"Are you still there, Sis?"

"Yes, I'm here," Elizabeth replied, wiping her face. "Just wondering when you became so wise."

"Eh, we all have our moments," Julie teased.

The sisters laughed, cried and talked for two more hours before Elizabeth finally laid her phone on the table next to the couch. Looking up to the wall where the creepy deer mount once hung, Elizabeth looked over her most recent painting that had taken its place, one she had done of Harley as a gift for Jack.

Hearing her phone buzz from a text message, she picked it up and read what Jack wrote.

I need to run to the western wear store. Do you want to go with me?

Yes, I'll be ready in 5.

Okay. On my way in.

Elizabeth hopped off the couch and ran upstairs to change from her sweats and T-shirt she'd been wearing to do some cleaning. A few minutes later, Jack passed through the bedroom, kissing her on the way, to take a quick shower.

…..

As they walked through the store, Elizabeth's eyes were drawn to the women's clothing area. She caught Jack's attention and pointed to the section, letting him know where she'd be, before she stopped and browsed several racks of the shirts and jeans.

"Take your time and look around here and while I go look at the work boots."

Nodding, Elizabeth moved to a different rack filled with ladies' shirts and perused for something she liked.

After Jack had tried on several work boots and settled on a pair, he picked up the box and proceeded to find Elizabeth. Standing at the shelves that held home décor, she was holding a candle when Jack walked up behind her.

"Find something you like?"

Turning around with an arm full of shirts and a pair of jeans, she grinned and answered, "Yes, a couple things."

Looking down and seeing her selections, Jack laughed, "I'd say so."

"Isn't this nice?" she asked, holding up the candle for Jack to smell.

"Wow, yeah. That smells great. What is it."

Turning the candle to find the name of the scent, she answered, "Graham cracker."

"That doesn't smell like graham cracker, but it smells good. Are you ready or did you still have shopping to do?"

"I'm done," she said, setting the candle back on the shelf.

"Don't you want that?"

Shrugging her shoulders, she replied, "I don't know. I've already got so many things."

Picking up the candle, Jack stated, "All I have is a pair of boots."

As the two walked toward the front of the store, something caught Jack's attention and he veered to the right.

"Come with me," he said over his shoulder.

Walking into the hat area, Jack sat his items down on the counter and took Elizabeth's from her hand, doing the same.

"Hey, Jack. How are you today?" George asked, stepping up behind the counter.

"Great, George." Moving his hand behind Elizabeth, he pulled her to his side. "I'd like you to meet my wife, Elizabeth. Beth, this is George."

"Well, hello Elizabeth. Great to meet you," George said, sticking out his hand.

Taking it, Elizabeth replied, "Great to meet you, too."

"She needs a new hat. Can you show her a few choices?" Jack asked.

"Absolutely, follow me."

George led the couple to the back of the hat area, "Straw or felt?" he asked.

"Straw for now," Jack answered.

"Jack, really, I don't need a hat."

"Yes, you do. You've got your horse trained and ready to go, you'll need a hat for when we go riding."

After showing them a few hats and Elizabeth tried each one on, she settled on a white straw hat with a black leather band with silver conchos and white leather wrapped between each one. After having it shaped to Jack's liking, they picked up their other items and began toward the check out.

Setting her new hat on her head, she asked, "Do you like it?"

"Yes, I love it," he answered, leaning to her and kissing her cheek. Whispering, he added, "Maybe you can wear it for me later...with nothing else."

"Jack," she exclaimed, shoving his shoulder, acting shocked. After a few minutes, she responded, quietly, "I might just do that."

"Yee haw!" Jack replied, louder than Elizabeth liked.

"Shhhh!" She stated, feeling her cheeks flush red.

…..

July 9th, 2010 - Eminence, Missouri

Jack backed the trailer into the camping spot with the number 54 attached to a small post, while Tom and Lee waited on the road to back into their spaces. The camping area they were moving into had 4 spaces that lined each side of a grassy area with a shared firepit, including four picnic tables and shade from three large oak trees.

Once he was satisfied with the position of the trailer, Jack put the truck in park and turned the key off.

"Ready?" he asked, seeing the excitement in Elizabeth's eyes.

"You have no idea," she smiled back.

With all the trailers situated in their designated spaces, a frenzy of activity began. Climbing down from the trucks, everyone immediately unloaded the horses and got them settled into their stalls that were located along the tree lined forest. Once they were tied in and watered, everyone returned to their trailers to get set up.

Elizabeth watched Jack as he began the preparations needed for their weekend by lowering the trailer jacks. Unlocking the trailer from the ball in the center of the truck bed, Jack pressed a button, raising it free from the hitch's grasp. Once it was high enough, he pulled the truck out from under the trailer.

After positioning blocks by the trailer tires, he returned to the control panel at the front of the trailer and pushed another button. Elizabeth watched as the jacks began to move and it self-leveled.

Once that was complete, Jack moved to the side of the trailer with the door that led into the living quarters, opened another panel, and watched as the awning unspooled and began to cast a shadow across the ground by the step.

Elizabeth watched all of this with awe and the excitement began to take over. She had never been camping before as her father was not much of an outdoorsman. Jack seemed in his element as he proceeded to pull camping chairs from the trailer and set them up near the firepit.

Lee and Tom had gotten their trailers in place, and they had begun their tasks, with the help of Rosie and Sam.

"Is there something I can help with?" She asked Jack, moving to his side.

"There's a rug just inside the door. You can grab it and roll it out in front of the step if you'd like."

Everyone made quick work with getting everything in its place; the trailers were plugged in, the air turned on, and the water hooked up. Jack carried the firewood that he'd chopped earlier that day, from his truck and stacked it neatly next to the fire ring.

Elizabeth did what she could, not knowing exactly what needed to be done. As she stood at the small copper sink, filling a bowl with water for Wyatt, Jack stepped up behind her, moving an arm around her waist. With his free hand, he brushed her hair away from her neck and pressed his lips against her skin. Elizabeth instinctively tipped her head to the side, giving him free access to her sensitive area below her ear, of which Jack took full advantage.

Turning her to face him, Jack immediately covered her lips with his, slipping his tongue through her parted lips. Pulling back, he looked down into her sky-blue eyes, "We'll have to christen this trailer later."

Elizabeth felt her cheeks warm with anticipation as Jack bent down and kissed her again, sucking gently on her bottom lip.

…..

After a quick lunch, the group saddled their horses and started toward a trailhead located near their campsites. Wrangler tucked his head behind Harley, who led the pack into the thick trees. At a slow pace, they followed the trail that had been cut through the forest by hundreds of horses before them.

Elizabeth's eyes darted from one area to another as conversations flowed between everyone. She spotted two squirrels running around the girth of the large maple tree, a deer and her fawn was seen in the distance, attempting to hide behind a skinny tree, a rabbit darted across the trail between Harley and Wrangler, and a rustle in a bush had her curious as to what resided there.

"Are you alright?" Jack asked, turned in his seat and looking back to Elizabeth.

"Perfect," she replied, a huge smile spreading across her face.

"Enjoying this?" Jack asked, grinning at her childlike enthusiasm.

"Oh, yes. It's beautiful here."

Jack turned back to the front and guided Harley to a trail that led off to the right and up a large hill. Once they reached the top, the group stopped at an overlook and took in the gorgeous scene that was sprawled out before them. A deep valley carpeted in trees led out to a lake where several boats could be seen skirting across the top of the water.

"This is amazing," Elizabeth stated as she stared across the horizon.

"Yes, it's wonderful out here. It's one of our favorite places to camp and ride," Sam replied as she moved her horse up next to Wrangler. Pointing to the horse, she said, "He's doing really good."

"Yes, he is," Jack added. "I never thought I'd see the day he'd be out on the trails with Elizabeth on his back when I first brought him home."

"Liz did most of his training," Rosie gushed about her friend.

"I don't know about that," Elizabeth responded.

Moving Harley closer to Wrangler, Jack reached his hand to Elizabeth's knee. "You are fully responsible for the success of this horse," he said before reaching up and removing her hat, leaning over and kissing her. "I'm very proud of you."

Blushing, Elizabeth dropped her eyes to the ground.

"Are you guys ready for some real fun?" Lee asked.

"You know it!" Tom exclaimed.

Jack kissed Elizabeth once more before replacing her hat to her head, and turning Harley around.

Led by Harley once more, the group returned to the trail and began their trek down a long, steep hill. Having been instructed by Jack before the ride began, Elizabeth leaned back as they made their way down.

Thirty minutes later, they stopped at a large water crossing. Wrangler's head was up high and his ears moved forward as he stared at the slow-moving water, wide eyed. Seeing this, Jack slid off Harley's back and led him to Elizabeth.

"I think you should ride Harley across. This is Wrangler's first water crossing and we don't know how he'll react."

Feeling Wrangler tense under her and without argument, Elizabeth quickly dismounted and climbed onto Harley.

The group stayed back as they watched Jack patiently work with Wrangler, carefully urging him to enter the water. Pacing back and forth along the water's edge, as soon as his hoof would touch the foreign substance, he'd jump back and attempt to push his way back into the herd.

"He has the patience of Job," Lee stated, watching his friend with amazement.

"Can one of you guys go ahead of him. Maybe he'll follow."

Moving his horse down the small hill that led into the river, Tom carefully guided Remington into the water, stopping several feet in.

Seeing this, Wrangler stepped into the water, finally allowing the river to flow over his hooves. Stopping, he lowered his head and snorted.

Laughing, Jack patted him on the neck and let him rest with both front legs in the cool water. Urging him once more, Wrangler took one step, then another, until he was beside Remington, and the two slowly walked across the expansive width of the river.

When everyone was across, Jack asked if Elizabeth wanted to switch back or ride Harley for a while. Since she was already on the beautiful red horse, she decided to stay where she was.

A few more smaller water crossings, two more outlooks with unbelievable views, and pit stop for Rosemary to go to the bathroom behind a bush, rounded out their first trail ride.

…..

After untacking, brushing out and feeding the horses, the group returned to their campsite where Jack proceeded to get the fire started.

"What do we want to do for dinner tonight?" Sam asked the group.

"We brought enough steaks for everyone, I can grill them if you guys want to take care of the sides," Jack replied.

"Wow, I like camping with him," Rosie replied. "I'll start throwing a salad together," she said as she vanished into her trailer.

With everyone in their trailers, preparing their portions of the meal, Jack pulled the steaks from the fridge and had them spread across a pan on the counter. After adding salt and a few seasonings, Jack allowed the steak to rest as he moved behind Elizabeth who was uncovering an apple pie she had made the day prior.

Jack rested his hands on her sides at her hips and gently squeezed. Lowering his face next to hers, he pressed his lips to her cheek.

"I can't wait to get you in bed later," he whispered in her ear.

Turning to face him, she moved her arms around his neck, gripping his hair at the back of his head she pulled his face to hers, kissing him hard and passionately.

"I can't wait to get you in bed," she replied.

A knock at their door drew them back to their surroundings as Jack stepped over to open it.

"Do you have any sugar?" Sam asked, standing on the ground looking up to Jack. "I thought I packed some but I must have left it at home."

Grinning, Jack pushed the door opened wider, "I'm not sure, come on in and check with Elizabeth."

Having heard the conversation, Elizabeth was already removing a small canister of sugar from the cabinet as Sam stepped in.

"Here you go," she said, handing the plastic container to Sam.

"Thank you so much. Tom loves his sweet tea with more sugar than tea," she said, chuckling.

"Well, there is plenty there to sweeten it to his liking," Elizabeth replied.

"Perfect. Thanks again. We'll see you in a few." Sam opened the door and began to step out. Stopping, she turned and added, "This trailer is gorgeous by the way."

"Thanks, Sam. We love it," Jack replied, smiling.

Sam stepped outside and closed the door behind her and Jack moved back to Elizabeth.

"Now...where were we?"

"Right here," she replied, weaving her fingers into his hair, pulling him down and meeting his lips with hers.

…..

"Well, that was just delicious," Lee said, leaning back into his chair and wiping his mouth. "Great steaks, Jacko. Someday you'll have to show me how you prepare them."

"Will do, Brother."

After everything was cleaned up and the food put away, the group gathered around the fire as Jack finished adding more wood.

"Delilah looks like she's doing great," Jack commented as he popped open his beer.

"Yes, Jack. Thank you so much. She's doing amazing on barrels. I'm going to retire Samson and start using her, she's doing so well."

"That's good to hear," Jack replied. "Glad she worked out for you."

"Wrangler is doing amazing, too," Sam added.

"Yes, thanks to Elizabeth. I was about to give up on him when she came out that day. You just never know who a horse will attach to."

"She did some amazing work with him," Rosie stated. "I watched them a few times and that horse loves Liz."

After two hours of visiting, laughing and drinking, everyone retired to their trailers for the evening. As Elizabeth pushed her jeans off, she felt Jack's arms move around her and she straightened in his embrace. With her back against his chest, she reached an arm up and gripped his hair as he kissed her neck.

Jack pressed his hands against the skin of her hips, sliding up and under her shirt, moving them along her stomach and ribs. Gliding his right hand up across her breasts, he rested it against her collarbone as he traced her neck and jawline with his lips. With his other arm across her stomach, Jack held her tight against him as he continued to kiss her neck.

Feeling Jack's strong, muscular arms around her, and his warm, wet lips against her neck, Elizabeth felt a pulsating energy flowing through her body. Remembering the last time they had been here, unmarried and unwilling to take things further, Elizabeth's heart raced and blood pumped at the thought of making love to her husband in the trailer he had purchased with her in mind.

Grabbing the hem of her shirt, Elizabeth pulled it over her head and tossed it onto the nearest seat. Jack's lips moved down the side of her neck and across the top of her shoulder. Bringing his hands to her back, he quickly unfastened her bra and pushed the straps off her shoulders, letting it fall to the floor. Returning his arms around her, one across her stomach and the other angled along her chest, his hand rested once more on her collarbone as his lips returned to her neck, jaw, cheek and ear.

Elizabeth moved her hands back, gripping the sides of Jack's jeans, enjoying the heat that flowed from head to toe that her husband ignited with the simplest touch. Jack moved a hand to her breast, gently caressing it as he softly kissed her ear. His warm breath across her soft skin sent a sensation through her body, stoking the fire within.

"You are so beautiful," Jack whispered in her ear, before turning her to face him.

Standing in front of him, wearing only her panties, she pulled the hem of his t-shirt up and over his head. Moving her hands to his buckle, she unfastened it, then his jeans, and pulled the zipper down. Jack grabbed the outside of Elizabeth's thighs, pulling them up on either side of him, and carried her toward the steps that led up to the bed. Elizabeth wrapped her arms behind Jack, covering his lips with hers, kissing him with the frenzy that resided inside her.

Slowly lowering her to the floor, keeping his lips on hers, he brushed his hands along her cheeks and into her hair, cradling her head in his hands. When he finally released her so they both could take a much needed breath, Elizabeth turned, moved up the three steps and climbed onto the bed. After disappearing behind the wall that held the TV, her panties came flying out and hit Jack square in the face.

Laughing, he quickly pushed his jeans and briefs off, leaving them on the floor where he stood as he ascended the steps to his wife.

Once on the bed, Jack laid alongside her, their bodies facing each other. Resting his hand on her neck, he stroked his thumb across her cheek as he stared into the blue pools of her eyes. Feeling his love for her grow as every second of every day passed, he felt as if his heart would burst. Lost in the confusion of how he was so fortunate as to have her as his wife, his eyes searched her face for the answer. Seeing the evident love she held for him in the gaze that she returned, emanating the same powerful love that he felt for her, Jack felt a lone tear fall from his eye that left a dark mark on his pillow. Closing the small distance between them, Jack softly kissed her, enjoying the lingering flavor of her fruity drink she'd consumed only minutes before, covering her soft, wet lips.

He softly ran his fingers across her shoulder, down her arm and across her hip. Moving his hand back to her butt, he gripped it and pulled her over him as he rolled to his back. With limited space between them and the ceiling, Elizabeth sat up as much as she could as Jack lifted her slightly and entered her fully.

Clutching her hips, he slowly lifted her up and down his shaft as he rocked his hips to deepen their connection. Elizabeth leaned forward and rested her hands on his biceps, squeezing with each thrust, feeling the pleasure pulsate through her body.

With their motions slow and deep, their eyes fixed on one another, their hearts racing, their breaths were shallow and labored. With bodies damp with sweat, Jack began to quicken their motions, their moans matching the increased pleasure and the imminent climax that was swiftly approaching.

As the explosion of electricity radiated through their bodies, Elizabeth collapsed onto Jack's chest and he wrapped his arms around her, holding her tight as they caught their breaths, waiting for the effects of the paralyzing climax to dissipate.

…..

The remainder of their weekend continued much as the same as their first day. Sharing meals, cleaning up around camp, trail rides, enjoying time with their friends, and ending the evenings with time alone in their trailer, constantly exploring their love and pleasure with one another.

When it was time to pack up after their final ride, Elizabeth had quickly caught on to the necessary chores around camp and was able to help get everything loaded back into the trailer. Once everything was buttoned up and the horses were loaded, the three trucks and trailers began their three-hour drive back to their ranches.

…..

July 16th, 2010 – Primrose OB/GYN

Jack's knee nervously bounced up and down as they sat in the waiting room. Seeing this, Elizabeth laid her hand on his leg, squeezing it gently.

"Nervous about something?" She asked.

Halting his motion, Jack turned to her. "I just want to hear him say it."

"Say what?"

"That you're pregnant. It will make it that much more real."

Feeling herself melt once again for her husband, Elizabeth leaned toward him and wrapped him in a hug. "I love you so much," she whispered in his ear.

After kissing her cheek, Jack leaned back into his chair and took her hand in his, his leg once more beginning its dance.

Hearing her name called, Elizabeth's heart began to race, matching the tapping of Jack's foot. Standing, the couple followed a nurse down a long white hallway where they were shown into a room that was decorated with photos of baby's hands and feet, and a poster showing different stages of pregnancy.

Elizabeth was handed a cup and instructed to collect a urine sample, and left to do so while Jack waited in the room. Standing in front of the poster, Jack looked at the drawings of the baby's progress at each month and the drawing of the woman's pregnant anatomy. Completely enthralled at it all, Jack hadn't heard Elizabeth return to the room.

Standing behind him, she asked, "It's all quite amazing, isn't it?"

Jumping slightly, Jack turned to face her and pulled her against him. After kissing her, he stared into her blue eyes and replied, "I can't even describe how I feel right now. I never thought I would see this day, and I'm so glad to be here with you."

Hearing a knock on the door, they turned to see the doctor enter the room.

"Hello," he started, looking down at the paper in his hand, "You must be Elizabeth Thornton. I'm Dr. Shepherd."

"Nice to meet you, this is my husband, Jack."

After shaking hands, they each took a seat in the provided chairs. After looking over the papers in his hands once more, Dr. Shepherd sat them down and looked at the couple who were holding hands.

"First, I'd like to say congratulations. You are most definitely pregnant."

Squeezing her hand, Jack looked over to his smiling wife.

"Based on your last period, that would put you between five and six weeks along. We can do a transvaginal ultrasound today and take a look at the little peanut as well as try to hear the heartbeat."

"Already?" Jack asked, leaning forward in his seat.

"We won't be able to see much, but I'll show you what I can."

"This is wonderful," Elizabeth added, a light resonating from her expression on her face.

Handing her a gown, Dr. Shepherd stepped out of the room for a few minutes to allow her to change.

Sitting at her head and holding her hand, Jack watched as Elizabeth's legs were placed in the stirrups and the doctor prepared the wand for the ultrasound. Feeling like a fish out of water, Jack looked on, trying to comprehend everything that was happening.

Jack and Elizabeth both stared at the screen as the doctor maneuvered the wand, searching for the perfect angle. Stopping, he made a few clicks with the mouse, then pointed to a little circle on the screen.

"There he is. There's your baby."

Elizabeth felt a smile form across her face and a tear fall down her cheek. Looking up to Jack, she saw that he had several tears falling now and he couldn't take his eyes off their baby. Returning her gaze to the monitor, she listened as the doctor continued with his exam.

Switching to the fetal doppler, the doctor moved it around Elizabeth's belly until he found what he was looking for.

"Here's your baby's heartbeat."

Gasping, both Elizabeth and Jack felt their tears begin to flow again as their grip on each other's hands tightened.

Once the exam was over and the doctor left to allow Elizabeth to get dressed, Jack stood, holding the ultrasound photo in his hand, shaking his head in disbelief. Once she was dressed, Elizabeth stepped up behind Jack, placing her hands on his arms and looking around his shoulder at the photo.

"That's our baby," Jack said, his statement almost sounding like a question.

"Yes, that's our baby." Elizabeth reached forward and took the photo from Jack, taking a closer look at it once more. "Our baby," she said, running her fingers across the paper.

Jack wrapped his arms around her as they stared at the photo, tears still traveling down their cheeks.

…..

July 20th, 2010 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Jack walked into the barn at the end of an excruciating day on the ranch. After spending two hours mending a badly broken fence, Jack, Lee, Jason and Lance loaded 150 small bales of hay onto a hayrack while Tom drove the tractor along the rows. Hours walking through the field in the heat, picking up sixty-pound bales and tossing them up to Lee and Jason who then stacked them, had worn Jack out.

Sitting on the bench inside the tack room to rest for a moment, Jack pulled his shirt off and wiped the dirt and sweat from his face before dropping it to the floor. After unbuckling his belt and releasing the button on his jeans, Jack leaned back on an old horse blanket, pulled his ball cap over his eyes and was quickly asleep.

…..

Jack felt fingers touch his skin and he quickly opened his eyes to find Elizabeth kneeling beside him, touching him. She slowly scanned Jack's body, taking her time, looking at every inch of his tanned pecs, abs, arms, and even his thigh muscles could be seen through the denim fabric of his jeans. Reaching up, she had laid her hands on his chest and softly touched his skin, slowly moving her hand down across the ridges of his abs until she reached the top of his unbuttoned jeans. Pressing her hand against his skin, she slipped her hands under the soft fabric of his boxer briefs and carefully took hold of his manhood.

Moving her eyes to his, she caught him staring at her and he began to sit up until she started stroking him. Jack fell back onto the blanket and his eyes closed as a moan slipped from his lips. Keeping her hand on him, feeling him become firm and erect in her grip, she leaned in and covered his lips with hers.

Jack reached his hand behind her head and pulled her hard against him, deepening their kiss as his tongue invaded her mouth, wildly dancing with hers. Kiss after kiss, their desire for one another grew as it always did, warmth from their internal fire moving throughout their bodies. Jack reached down and grabbed her hand, pulling it from his pants, then swung his legs off the bench. Seeing she was wearing a skirt, Jack slid his hands up her legs to discover that she wasn't wearing any panties.

With widened eyes, Jack lifted up slightly and pushed his jeans off his hips, moved his hands back under her skirt, pushing it up, and pulled her down onto him. Feeling her moist tightness around him, Jack leaned back as she moved up and down his shaft, slowly and carefully, sending his senses into a frenzy.

As she continued to move on him, Jack rocked his hips to match her motion and slipped his hands under her shirt. Feeling she also did not have a bra on, he cupped her breasts, squeezing, rubbing and massaging.

With his head tipped back, his eyes closed, and feeling himself getting close, he heard Elizabeth call out his name. As they continued to move together, he heard her call out his name again. Trying to open his eyes, he heard his name again, but the voice was lower and deeper.

"Jack!"

Finally able to open his eyes, Jack looked around the dark tack room. "Elizabeth?" He called out, unable to find her.

"Jack!"

Hearing Lee's voice and seeing him step into the room, Jack quickly sat up and grabbed the horse blanket, pulling it across his lap. Trying to catch his breath and slow his heartrate, Jack replied, "Hey there, Bro."

"What are you doing? I've been yelling your name."

Pretending to wipe the sleep from his eyes, Jack answered, "I guess I fell asleep."

Seeing Jack's cheeks were flushed, his breathing was heavy and the horse blanket across his lap, a grin took residence across Lee's face. "Good dream?"

"Huh?"

Tilting his head toward the blanket on his lap, Lee asked again, "Have a good dream?"

Knowing he'd been caught, Jack leaned back on the bench, "You could say that."

"Well, the hay racks are put up and the tractor is in the shed. I'm heading home to my wife. Maybe you can go see your wife and get that taken care of," Lee said, pointing to Jack's lap.

Grabbing the hat from his head, Jack flung it at Lee, hitting him square in the chest.

Laughing a full belly laugh, Lee stepped out the door, "See you later, Brother."

Tossing the blanket aside, Jack stood, picked up his hat, and followed Lee outside. Leaning against the doorframe of the barn, Jack watched as Lee drove away in his beat-up truck.

"When will that boy ever buy a new one?" Jack asked himself, shaking his head. Turning his gaze toward the house, Jack stared at it, remembering his dream, imagining Elizabeth reaching into his pants. Jack's body began to react to the thought and he jogged toward the house, to his Elizabeth.

…..

July 23rd, 2010 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Elizabeth was about to change into her shorts and T-shirt for the evening when her phone rang. Picking it up without looking at the name on the screen, she heard Bill's voice on the other end.

"Beth?"

Straightening, she quickly replied, "Bill? Is Julie alright?"

"Yes, she wanted me to call you and let you know that we're on our way to the hospital. She's in labor."

"Tell her I'm on my way." Without waiting for a reply, she pressed the end button, threw her phone onto the bed and began to put her jeans back on. Grabbing her phone and her bag she'd already packed, she ran down the stairs to find Jack.

"Jack?" She called out, "Jack!"

Flying up the stairs from the basement, Jack burst into the kitchen.

"What's wrong, Beth?"

"Julie's in labor. I need a ride to the airport."

Grabbing his truck keys from the hook near the front door, Jack held the door open for Elizabeth as she passed through.

As they jogged to the truck, he opened the door and she climbed up onto the seat next to him.

"Are you sure you don't want me to go with you?" Jack asked as he started the engine.

"No. I'll be fine. You have too much to do around here."

"Tom and Lee can take care of things."

"Really, I'll be fine. You don't need to."

Jack turned the truck onto the road and quickly accelerated up to the speed limit, then pushed it, going slightly over.

"You should call the airlines and see what time the next flight is."

"That's a good idea," she replied, pulling her phone from her purse.

After twenty minutes on the call, Elizabeth had secured her ticket for the next flight out that left in an hour and a half.

Laying her hand on Jack's knee, she listened to the song that was playing through the radio.

"Are you alright?" Jack asked after a long silence.

"Yes, just nervous for Julie. She had a really long labor last time. Thirty-four hours."

"Wow," Jack responded, thinking of Elizabeth and their upcoming birth. "Doesn't the second one usually go faster?"

"Viola's didn't. Her second was actually longer than her first."

"Oh," Jack replied, suddenly getting nervous for Elizabeth.

They remained quiet the remainder of the drive to the airport, until Jack put the truck in park in front of the terminal.

"I'm going to miss you," he said, taking her hand in his. "We've never spent a night apart since we've been married."

Laying her head on his shoulder, she replied, "I'll miss you, too. I'll call you every day."

"You better," Jack said. Turning in his seat, he lifted her face and kissed her. The kiss was soft, gentle, and long. One of not wanting to say goodbye.

Finally relenting to the clock, they eased out of the truck and Jack carried her bag inside, setting it on the floor near her feet.

"Wow, I didn't think it would be this hard," he said, resting his hands on each side of her neck, rubbing his thumbs against it. "I love you so much. Tell Julie and Bill hello and congratulations for me."

"I will," she stated, staring into his hazel eyes, looking at each golden flake that made up his unique eye color. "I love you, too."

Leaning down, Jack covered her lips with a longing, eager kiss.

"Goodbye, Baby."

"Goodbye, Cowboy."

Elizabeth smiled, picked up her bag and turned toward the check in counter. Jack watched as she got her boarding pass, waved, and vanished into the line of people at security. He then hesitantly walked out the door to return to his truck, sat in it briefly, then pulled away.

…..

July 24th, 2010 – Vermont

Elizabeth stepped through the doors at the Lebanon Municipal Airport and entered the taxi that was waiting for her. Once in the car, she instructed him to go to the Rose Medical Center.

Fifteen minutes later, she was leaving the taxi and entering the hospital, only six and a half hours after receiving the phone call, Elizabeth was on the elevator on her way to the fourth floor.

Almost 2 am at this point, Elizabeth was growing tired as she watched the numbers change, indicating which floor she was approaching.

Having called Jack from the cab, her heart ached at the distance between them. As understanding as Jack was regarding Elizabeth wanting to be with her sister, Elizabeth could tell that he was already missing her terribly, as was she.

The door opened and she stepped out onto the fourth floor, checking the signs for room 436.

Quickly finding it, she knocked on the door. Seeing Bill's face when he opened it, Elizabeth knew it was going to be a long night.

As she approached her sister's side, the dam broke and Julie began to cry. Holding her hand out, Elizabeth took it and leaned down, hugging her little sister.

Pushing the hair from her sweat covered forehead, Elizabeth asked, "How are you doing, Sis?"

Taking a deep breath between sobs, she finally replied, "Ready for this guy to come out."

"Boy?" Elizabeth asked, smiling.

"Oops, that was supposed to be a surprise. Yes, it's a boy."

"I'm so happy for you, Julie. Can you tell me the name since you already slipped?" she asked, grinning.

"Jacob William."

"Oh, Julie. That's wonderful."

At that moment, another contraction hit and Julie clamped down on Elizabeth's hand, breathing through the pain. Bill was soon at her side, holding her other hand.

As it ended, she relaxed her hands and laid back onto her pillow.

"Good job, Honey," Bill said, spooning ice chips into her mouth.

The doctor entered the room and introduced herself to Elizabeth. After a quick exam to check Julie's progression, she moved her stool back and removed her gloves.

"You're progressing very slow. You're still only 2 centimeters dilated. Due to the prolonged labor from Skylar, I think we'll go ahead and administer Pitocin now and try to get this one moving along."

"That would be wonderful," Julie stated, still slightly out of breath.

….

Back at Hope Meadows, Jack laid in bed, staring at the ceiling that was illuminated by the slight glow of the moonlight that found its way through a space in the curtain. Worrying about Julie, about Elizabeth's own labor, and missing the warmth of his wife next to him, Jack had been unable to get any sleep.

Finally getting out of bed, Wyatt was quickly at his feet, looking up to Jack with worry.

"Hey there, Buddy," Jack said, scratching Wyatt in his favorite spot behind his ear.

With a low, quiet bark, Wyatt pushed his way between Jack's legs and jumped up, placing a front foot on each of Jack's knees. After a quick lick on the cheek, Wyatt sat back onto the floor and stared up, looking him in the eyes.

"Need to go outside?"

Normally, hearing this, Wyatt would begin to bark and spin in circles, but this time he just sat, staring up at Jack.

"What's the matter, Boy?"

Wyatt walked around to the foot of the bed and jumped up onto the comforter, laying down where Jack's feet would be.

"Now, you know you're not allowed up here. Get down, Wyatt."

Ignoring Jack, Wyatt belly crawled further up the bed, stopping where Elizabeth normally slept. Watching this, Jack laid back down, his head on the pillow facing the dog.

"You miss her, too?"

Wyatt whined and stretched out, covering Elizabeth's side of the bed.

"Oh, alright. You can stay. But just tonight." Jack stretched his arm out, draping it across Wyatt, and was soon asleep.

…..

Another contraction took hold of Julie as she clamped down on Elizabeth's and Bill's hands once more. Trying to stifle a moan, it slipped through her lips as she tried to do her Lamaze breathing.

"That was a long one," Bill stated, brushing her hair away from her face. "They're getting closer, too."

"And stronger," Julie added once she finally caught her breath.

Three more hours into the labor, Julie had only progressed to 3 centimeters, causing concern with the doctor.

"If we don't see better progress, we're going to have to start thinking about a cesarean section."

Checking the logs and looking at the clock, the Dr. Preston continued, "It's been almost 10 hours since your first contraction. As long as the baby doesn't show signs of distress, I'll let you go another few hours. But if there is no change, then we'll have to schedule that C-section. Okay?"

"Yes, Doctor. Thank you," Julie replied.

The doctor left the room and the three of them remained quiet, thinking over the news they'd just received.

"I really don't want a cesarean," Julie said to Bill.

"I know, Honey. But if the doctor thinks that's what's best..."

"I know," Julie added.

….

Jack felt Elizabeth's lips on his, warm and wet. Reaching out to pull her body against his, Jack felt fur and his eyes popped open to the blue and green eyes of Wyatt staring at him, his rough, wet tongue going up the length of Jack's nose.

Calling out, Jack wiped his face and scooted back away from the dog.

"Wyatt!" He yelled, wiping his lips over and over. "Geez. That was a rude awakening." Seeing the sad eyes of Wyatt staring at him, Jack sighed and moved back toward the dog and patted his head. "I'm sorry, Boy. You just...well...caught me off guard this morning." Laughing, Jack petted the length of Wyatt's body. "Ready to go outside?"

Hearing this, Wyatt jumped up and spun in a circle, stopping and staring at Jack, waiting for him to move. After a bark, Jack rolled out of the bed and onto his feet.

"Alright, let's go, Boy."

…..

Elizabeth checked the clock on her phone. 8 am. Thirteen hours of labor and not much progress. Sighing, she stood and whispered to Bill, not wanting to wake Julie who'd finally fallen asleep for the first time.

"I'm going to step out for a few minutes."

Nodding, Bill unsuccessfully attempted to hold back a yawn.

Tapping on the phone app, she pressed call next to Jack's photo.

"Beth, how's it going?"

"Hi, Jack," a yawn escaped her as she said his name.

"Oh, Baby. You need to get some sleep."

"I will later."

"So, how's Julie?"

"She's okay. Not making much progress."

"What exactly does that mean?"

"She should be dilated more by now and the doctor said if things don't start moving along faster, that she might have to have a cesarean."

"Oh, really. Is that bad?"

"Well, yes and no. There's nothing...wrong with it. But her recovery will take a lot longer and then, of course, the scar. And it's a surgery, so there's always risks."

"Yes, of course."

"The doctor should be in soon to check her again. We'll know more then."

"How long has she been in labor now?"

"13 hours."

"That must be exhausting."

"It is, she's actually sleeping right now. It won't be for long, but it's better than none." After a short pause, Elizabeth asked, "How are you?"

"Lonely."

"You sound tired."

"I didn't sleep much last night. I'm used to you being by my side."

"I know. I'm not sure how well I'll be able to sleep when I actually get a chance to try."

"Don't get mad, but Wyatt slept with me."

Laughing, Elizabeth replied, "That's fine, Jack. I really don't care if Wyatt sleeps in our bed."

"That's good, cause I'm not sure we'll be able to tell him no again." Jack let out chuckle, then tried to hide it.

"What's so funny?"

"Well...I sort of woke up, thinking you were kissing me."

"Okay? Why is that funny?"

"It wasn't you kissing me."

Thinking about his statement for a second, Elizabeth began to laugh. "Wyatt?"

"Wyatt."

They laughed and visited for a few more minutes until Elizabeth saw the doctor duck into her sister's room. "I need to go; the doctor is here. I love you."

"I love you, Babe."

After returning her phone to her pocket, Elizabeth hurried back into the room, just as the doctor was beginning her exam.

"Good news. You are 7 centimeters dilated and 80 percent effaced. You are finally moving along. It looks like you just might be able to have this big guy on your own."

Feeling a sense of relief, Julie and Bill both relaxed slightly.

"I'm going to go ahead and break your water to ensure things keep progressing."

When the doctor was finished and had left the room, Elizabeth pulled the chair up next to the bed and took Julie's hand in hers.

"How's Jack doing?" Julie asked.

"He's fine. Lonely, but he has Wyatt."

"Thank you for being here."

Lifting Julie's hand to her lips and kissing to top of it, Elizabeth replied, "I wouldn't miss it for the world."

The contractions began to speed up as the time neared. Only an hour after breaking her water, the doctor checked Julie once more.

"It's time to meet this little man. Let me gown up and we'll bring him into the world."

Elizabeth could feel her heart begin to race as she tightened her grip on Julie's hand. Once the doctor was ready, and the nurses were in the room, everything was prepared and Julie began to push. Almost an hour and a half later, Jacob William was born; a perfect 10 pounds, 9 ounces, 21 inches long, 10 toes and 10 fingers.

Elizabeth felt her tears begin to fall as she watched the doctor lay Jacob on Julie's chest. Her sister and Bill were both crying at this point, completely in love with their baby boy.

Handing Bill the scissors, the doctor showed him where to cut the umbilical cord. Elizabeth watched as he cut it, returning the scissors to the nurse and his attention back to his son and wife.

Elizabeth had heard her phone buzzing from notifications during all the excitement of Jacob's arrival. Picking it up, she read a text from Jack asking how things were going, and one from her mom stating that she and William had arrived.

Gently laying her hand on Julie's shoulder, Elizabeth leaned down and said, "Mom and Dad are here. I'm going out to see them and give you two some privacy."

Holding her arm out for a hug, Julie pulled her sister in tight. "Thank you for being here."

Elizabeth could feel Julie's tears against her own cheek. "Thank you for allowing me to be in here. It was…indescribable." Straightening, she took her little sister's hand, "Want me to give them the news?"

"Yes, could you please."

Stepping out into the hallway, Elizabeth pressed call next to Jack's name and waited for him to answer. After only one ring, she heard Jack's voice and her tears broke loose.

"Beth, is everything okay? What happened?" Fear clutched onto Jack's heart as he listened to Elizabeth's sobs on the other end of the call. "Beth, what is it?"

"Nothing's wrong. It was all just amazing, Jack."

"The baby is here? Everyone is alright?"

"Yes. It's a boy. Jacob William."

"That's wonderful, Beth. Please be sure to tell them congratulations for me."

"I will. Mom and Dad just arrived and I need to go out the give them the news. I'll call you when I get to my hotel room and can talk more. Okay?"

"Yes, Babe. That's fine. I'll be waiting for your call. I miss you," Jack's voice quieted with his last statement.

"I miss you, too. I love you, Cowboy."

"I love you, Beth."

Shoving her phone into her pocket, Elizabeth found the room that her parents had been waiting. Seeing Elizabeth enter, Grace jumped to her feet and gave her hug.

"How's Julie?" She asked, holding Elizabeth at arm's length.

"Julie is fine. The baby is fine."

"The baby is here?" Grace asked, covering her mouth with her hand.

"Yes. A boy. Jacob William. 10 pounds, 9 ounces, born at 11:24 am."

William placed his hand over his heart, his shoulders dropped and a tear rolled down his cheek.

Elizabeth visited with her parents for a short while then returned to her sister. After another hour with her, Elizabeth left to find a hotel and get checked in, freshen up and take a nap.

…..

With Wyatt glued to his heels, Jack walked out to the building that housed the tractor. Opening the door, he helped Wyatt up who took his usual spot next to the seat on a padded board that Jack had installed for him; making it possible for the dog to watch through the windows.

Wyatt glanced in every direction as they traveled along the path that led out to the hay field, prepared to warn his owner of any danger that might be approaching. Having baled the hay in small bales as well as large round ones, Jack began his task of taking the large bales to his hay storage shed, one at a time.

Just under two hours had passed as Jack lowered the fork of the tractor, setting the final bale in its row, and backing out of the building. Checking his phone once more, there had been no calls from Elizabeth. Shoving the phone back into his pocket, he patted Wyatt's head as he turned the tractor around to return it to the building.

Just as he was about to open the front door and enter the house, he heard his phone begin to ring and he quickly retrieved it from his pocket. Seeing Beth's name on the screen, Jack smiled and answered.

"Hey, Baby."

"Hi, Jack," Elizabeth replied, releasing a large yawn afterwards.

"Have you still not slept?" Jack asked, his voice filled with concern.

"Yes, I just woke up. Still trying to wake up I think."

Letting out a breath of relief, Jack added, "That's good. Please make sure you're taking care of yourself. Are you taking your vitamins the doctor recommended?"

"Yes, Jack. I'm taking them every day."

"I'm sorry. I'm just worried about you and with you so far away...well...I just worry."

"I know. I'm sorry." Elizabeth leaned back onto her pillow, "What have you been doing?"

"Wyatt and I just brought in the rest of the hay."

"Oh, good. He sure loves riding in the tractor with you."

Jack was sitting in the chair in the front room now and reached down to pet Wyatt's head. "He sure does. He was on high alert for danger the whole time, too."

Laughing, Elizabeth closed her eyes and envisioned the sight of Jack driving the tractor with Wyatt at his side, scanning the ranch. "He's such a funny dog."

After a short silence, Jack asked softly, "How was the birth?"

Taking a deep breath, Elizabeth began, "It was hard at first. She progressed very slowly so they gave her some Pitocin, which intensified the contractions. She was able to get an epidural, but it was still hard on her."

"I see."

"After a while when she finally started to move along, the doctor broke her water and things seemed to really begin to happen after that." Smiling, she continued, "It was really amazing, Jack. Seeing a child being born. I can't even explain the range of emotions that flowed through me."

"That's great, Beth. I'm so glad you were able to be with her."

"Me, too. When Skylar was born, there was a blizzard working its way through the Midwest and all the planes were grounded for two days. I missed the whole thing." Yawning, Elizabeth rolled to her side and let the phone rest on her ear.

"How are you doing?" Jack asked in a loving tone.

"I'm okay. Just tired."

"Is that all?"

Knowing her husband knew her almost better than she knew herself, Elizabeth answered, "It was hard seeing Julie go through that. Some of the contractions were really tough."

"I thought it might be something like that." Taking in a deep breath, he silently released it, "Yours will be just fine. I'll be right by your side, holding your hand, doing whatever it is that you need."

"I know you will." A smile formed across her face, picturing Jack in the delivery room with her. "I love you."

"I love you, too."

"I should probably get back to the hospital."

"Okay. Call me later?"

"I will."

…..

As she entered her sister's room, Elizabeth smiled at the scene of her father holding Jacob. The baby had his tiny fingers wrapped around his grandfather's thumb as William watched him sleep. Hearing her walk in, William looked up and smiled at his middle daughter.

"He's perfect," William stated, returning his gaze to Jacob.

Standing over them now, Elizabeth looked down at the child that was lost in a peaceful sleep. "Yes, he is."

"Sit down," William said, patting the cushion next to him.

As Elizabeth sat, he turned to her, holding out the baby. "Want to hold him?"

She gladly took her nephew in her arms, leaned back in the seat and held him close to her chest. Running her finger down his cheek, she watched as his face twitched from the tickle of her touch.

"Wait until you have your own," William said softly, "There's nothing like it in the world."

Looking up to him, a tear fell down her cheek and she nodded.

William put his arm around her shoulders and asked, "Is everything alright?"

Looking back at Jacob, she answered, "Everything is perfect."

With Julie asleep, Grace and Bill had gone to the cafeteria to get something to eat. Returning to find Elizabeth snuggled into her father's arm and holding Jacob, Grace's heart was full and her face beamed with pride. Taking the seat next to them, Grace reached up and gently touched her grandson's hand.

"Have you and Jack discussed having a family?" She asked nonchalantly.

"Hmm mmm," Elizabeth replied, grinning.

Seeing this, Grace sat up straight, "What does that mean?"

Not realizing that her face had given her away, Elizabeth tried to hide it, "What does what mean?"

"Hmm mmm and that grin." Grace gave her daughter a sideways glance and then her eyes widened. "Are you pregnant?"

"How could you possibly know that?" Elizabeth asked, shock in her voice.

"You are?" Grace's voice cracked and her eyes began to dampen with tears once more.

Nodding, Elizabeth smiled.

"What, Beth? You're expecting?" William asked, leaning to the side so he could see her better.

With her gaze darting back and forth between her parents, Elizabeth gave in. "Yes, I'm pregnant."