On with more Thornton family adventures. This chapter is filled with a lot of informational horse stuff, lots of Savannah, and of course, lots of loving. Mild steam alert!

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

August 1st, 2012 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Elizabeth picked up the twins and walked over to the ponies Jack had just unloaded from the trailer. The kids were squirming in her arms almost causing her to drop them as the warm air and excitement of the ponies had them both bending and twisting to get down.

"I'll take Peyton," Jack said, reaching for his daughter.

They each leaned down, allowing the twins to pet their new ponies, the elation in the toddlers was uncontainable as they screeched and giggled.

"And what are we supposed to do with these two?" Elizabeth asked, motioning to the ponies.

"I'll put them in one of the larger stalls together. They are broke to ride but it's been a while since anyone has ridden them. So, I'll have plenty of time to work with them and get them ready for the kids when they are a little older."

Jack placed Peyton on the back of the lighter colored pony and held onto her as she squealed louder than ever and buried her fingers in the mane. Elizabeth gave in and did the same with Colton, who had the same reaction: rocking back and forth while simultaneously bouncing up and down.

"So, what are their names?" Elizabeth asked, trying to keep a hold on the very excited Colton.

"Well," Jack chuckled, "they came from the same ranch and their kids named them."

"Okay?" Elizabeth asked, inquisitively.

Jack laughed again and pointed to the darker one, "This is Peanut." He then pointed to the lighter one, "and...this is Butter."

Elizabeth snickered and pursed her lips.

"I know, I know," Jack laughed. "We can change them. They aren't like dogs so it won't hurt anything."

"Well, Peanut is kind of cute," Elizabeth stated. "But Butter? I think we can do better. Are they mares?"

"Peanut is a gelding, Butter is a mare," Jack replied.

While their parents discussed the ponies' names, Peyton and Colton continued to bounce and rock back and forth, trying their hardest to get the little horses to move, but they just stood still and continued to eat grass.

Elizabeth looked the light-colored mare over and thought for a minute before continuing, "How about Daisy?"

"Hmmm, Daisy. Yes, she looks like a Daisy. Peanut and Daisy then?"

"Yes, Peanut and Daisy," Elizabeth responded, smiling. "These kids are going to have so much fun."

Jack lifted Peyton from Daisy and held her. "What do you think, Pey? Should we name her Daisy?"

Peyton clapped and giggled, "Day-ee."

"You heard it, Mama. Day-ee it is."

…..

August 6th, 2012 – Hope Meadows Ranch

"Savannah was very adamant about what she wants for her tenth birthday," Tom said as he leaned on the railing of the round pen, watching his brother work with a beautiful palomino gelding. Jack had sent him around the pen, currently in a perfectly timed lope. Wyatt was sitting just outside the gate, his eyes glued on the horse.

Jack stopped the horse from making another circle and the pair walked toward each other. When he reached the gelding, the horse stopped and Jack began rubbing its neck and he looked toward his brother.

"And what would that be?"

"She wants a barrel horse and she wants you to go with us to look at one that she's already picked out." A wry grin covered Tom's face, knowing what his brother was about to say.

"Ohhh, you're in trouble, Brother. You know you won't be able to say no," Jack told him, chuckling as he scratched the gelding's back.

Laughing now, Tom nodded, "I know. We'll be taking the trailer with us...you know...just in case."

"Of course," Jack walked toward his brother as the gelding followed right behind him.

"It is really amazing how quickly you are able to get horses to come around," Tom stated, watching his brother in amazement as he always did. "Would you mind doing a little work with whatever horse she picks out...just to finish it off a bit more. It will just give me more peace of mind."

Jack rested an arm on top of the fence, patting Tom's with his free hand, "Of course, I will."

Wyatt joined his owner, sitting down next to him, his body between Jack and the horse.

Tom reached out and petted the palomino's forehead, eyeing the horse up and down. The gelding had a large white blaze down his forehead, running between his two dark eyes. His golden body was slightly dappled, a patterning that gave a horse almost a spotted or mottled appearance. "What's your plans with this one? Someone bring him to you?"

Jack turned toward the horse and leaned his back against the rails. "No, I picked him up at an auction when Beth and I went to get a few mares a couple months ago. There was just something about his eyes."

"Yes, I can see that." Tom ran his hand down the horse's forehead, watching his eyes close slightly as if he was about to fall asleep.

Jack turned his head toward Tom, "You interested in him?"

"I don't know. Maybe. I have been thinking about getting a new one. Remington is getting up there in age, so I wouldn't mind having a second one so I can let Remi have a break now and then."

"This guy would be perfect for you. I plan to start him under saddle next week. I can have him ready for you in thirty days."

Tom climbed the fence and joined them in the pen. He walked around the horse, checking every inch of him, picked up each leg and checked his hooves.

"He's perfect, Jack." Tom backed up and continued looking over the horse, "How old is he?"

"He just turned four."

"Perfect age. Young enough to train how you want him, old enough to learn."

"Exactly."

"How much for him?"

Jack turned to his brother, "Really, Tom?"

"Yes, how much?"

"Nothing."

"No, you aren't doing that. How much did you pay for him?"

"Tom, I am not charging you for a horse. It's not going to happen so you can just stop asking now."

"Jack..."

"Tom..." Jack's voice was firm and his eyes even firmer.

Tom knew there was no arguing with his brother and he threw his arms in the air in surrender, "Okay. But I'm paying you back in one way or another."

"If you insist," Jack smiled. "I might have a few stalls that need mucked."

Tom lifted his arm, looking at his wrist at a watch that wasn't there, "Oh, look at the time. I need to go...go...go organize my closet."

…..

August 9th, 2012 – Tom and Sam's Ranch

Jack and Tom were leaning against the rails of Tom's arena, watching Savannah ride around on her pony, Blossom. She maneuvered her around invisible barrels at a fast trot, and Savannah kicked the stubborn animal as hard as she could, encouraging her to go faster with no avail.

"So, do you think she's ready for a horse?" Tom asked his brother.

"She's been on a horse her entire life, Tom. She's ready."

"But...she's...you know."

Jack turned toward his brother, resting his elbow on the top rail of the fence. "Has she ever had an issue riding in the past?"

"When she was little but not anymore."

"Okay, what are you guys worried about now?"

"That she'll get hurt," Sam answered, having heard them as she was approaching.

"Hey, Sis," Jack said, leaning over the rail and kissing her cheek.

"Hi, Jack."

"Are you worried about her wanting to run barrels? Or worried about her being on a larger horse?"

Sam looked to Tom, then back to Jack. "I'm not sure about her wanting to do barrels."

"There are no buzzers or commands that she has to listen for. It's just her and the horse on their own time. Someone will always be with her to let her know when it's her turn and when to go. And I already promised Tom that I would get her horse ready for leg cues only."

Nodding while Jack talked, Sam thought it over. "I don't know," she finally said, shaking her head in uncertainty.

"Rosie will work with her, too, Babe," Tom added. "Savannah will be thoroughly prepared before she ever steps foot into a real competition." He moved his arm around his wife, pulling her to his side. "You know our daughter. She has always been very careful around horses. We can't keep her under our wings forever," he said softly.

"I know." She looked to Jack once more, "You promise to have that horse bombproofed?"

"Absolutely. It will be so finished off that I would feel comfortable putting one of my own kids on it...when they are a little older that is," he grinned, his right dimple making an appearance.

No woman could resist that smile and Sam completely gave in, "Fine. She can have her barrel horse."

…..

August 10th, 2012 – Crystal Creek Ranch, Eminence, Missouri

Jack, Tom and Savannah followed an older man through a barn, one larger than Jack's and filled with horses of every size and color. At the last stall on the left, where a chestnut horse had its head looking out over the door, the man stopped and picked up a rope that was hanging on a hook.

Savannah turned her head and with a smile filling her whole face, she signed, "That's him."

Jack and Tom, both following behind her, smiled at her excitement as they stopped at the stall that held the gelding.

Bob pushed the door open and snapped the rope onto the horse's halter, and led him out into the aisle. Savannah clasped her hands together and couldn't keep her feet still as she watched her dad and uncle looking over the gelding.

Jack started at the horse's head, looking at its eyes, searching for the softness that Jack required in all of his horses...seeing it, Jack nodded slightly to himself and moved back. He checked the hooves, felt the legs for any heat, which is a sign of an injury, and returned to his head. He pulled the horse's lips back and inspected his teeth, verifying the horse's age of seven years old.

Tom also circled the horse, checking for scars or anything out of the ordinary.

"Can we take him out? I'd like to see him move," Jack asked.

"Of course. I'll get a lunge line," Bob said, moving to a wall that held his tack.

Once outside, Jack sent the horse into a wide circle, putting him into different gaits, watching how he responded and moved. The horse did everything that was asked of him, moving perfectly and with ease.

"Do you mind if we saddle him up and I ride him?" Jack asked the man.

"Yes, sure. I have a saddle in here that should fit ya."

They followed him into the barn as Jack led the horse. As soon as the gelding was tacked, Jack led him out into the man's arena, did a few more things on the ground, then slowly mounted the horse. Five minutes later, Jack returned to the gate and climbed down.

"Do you mind if my brother and I talk about it for a minute," Jack asked, handing the reins to Bob.

"No, of course not. I'll be in the barn."

Once the man was out of earshot, Jack turned to Tom.

"He's a pretty good horse. Moves out really well, took my leg cues good. He's got the speed but he is also trained to verbal cues. He actually responded to those a bit better than the leg."

"Can you train him for leg only?"

Jack nodded, "Yes, that shouldn't be a problem. He was a bit stiff in the neck, but we can work on that, too."

"So, what do you think? Will he be a good fit for Savannah?" Tom asked.

Jack turned and knelt in front of his niece who had been watching them intently, trying to read their lips but only catching a few words here and there.

Signing, Jack talked to Savannah, "You like him, don't you?"

With a huge smile, she replied, "Yes."

"Ok, if your dad buys him, I will train him for you. But you have to help me,"

"Me? Help train?"

"Yes, Savannah. He would be your horse, so I expect you to help with his training." Jack watched his niece's face as she thought this over.

Turning to her dad, she asked, "Can I have him?"

"Do you promise to help your Uncle Jack with the training?"

Her smiled covered her face once more and she nodded.

"Okay then. Happy birthday," Tom replied, his smile growing to match hers.

She jumped into Tom's arms and hugged him, squeezing him as tight as she could. Letting go of her dad, she moved to Jack and repeated her show of gratitude.

Stepping back so both men could see her, she said, "Thank you. Thank you so much."

"You're welcome, Sweetheart," Jack responded.

"Let's go tell Bob," Tom said and signed, then held out his hand for Savannah.

…..

August 11th, 2012 – Tom & Sam's Ranch

"Do you think she'll like the color?" Jack asked, pulling Savannah's birthday present from the back of the SUV.

"What little girl wouldn't love this?" Elizabeth answered, chuckling at Jack's nervousness on his niece's gift as she closed the lift gate.

Elizabeth held the front door open as Jack carried in the heavy present. He peeked around the corner of the wall, making sure Savannah was not in sight.

"Hey, Sam," Elizabeth said as she stepped into the kitchen then gave her a hug.

"Oh, you guys. You found one. She will love it." Sam pulled a bench around and motioned to it, "You can set it right here. I'll go get her." She looked over it one more time, "It's beautiful. She's going to love this so much." Sam almost skipped as she hurried to find her daughter.

Jack and Elizabeth stood side by side, hand in hand, in front of the surprise, blocking it from view when Savannah entered the room. She had been followed by her mom, dad and brothers.

"Happy birthday, young lady," Jack signed, then hugged her. "Aunt Beth and I got something that you can use with Cash, but you have to take very good care of it."

Smiling, Savannah nodded and looked around the room.

"Happy birthday," Elizabeth signed and she and Jack separated, revealing the beautiful saddle with matching tack.

A muted squeal came from the little girl and she covered her mouth as she walked around it.

Looking back to Jack and Elizabeth, she asked, "This is mine?"

They nodded.

Savannah reached out and touched the new leather of the saddle. Decorated with a beautiful hand tooled floral design, accented with hand painted turquoise inlays, and completed with a turquoise padded suede seat, the new barrel saddle was perfect for the ecstatic ten-year-old. A matching headstall and breast collar were laying across the seat and Savannah picked them up, turning over the leather in her hands, taking in all the lovely details.

Laying them down, she ran over to Jack and wrapped her arms around his waist, hugging him so tight that he had to hold his breath. Then she moved to Elizabeth and hugged her just the same. Sam and Tom watched as their little girl's dreams were beginning to become a reality.

Having worried about Savannah all her life, the young couple were just as happy as their daughter, watching her going after what she wants and not allowing her disability to hold her back.

"Thank you, Jack...Elizabeth," Tom said, hugging each of them. Turning toward his daughter who was inspecting her gift once more, he added, "This is perfect."

Jack laid his hand on his brother's shoulder, "Nothing will stop her."

"I think you're right." He moved to his daughter and tapped her shoulder, "Go get Cash and we'll see how it looks on him."

Wide-eyed and smiling, she ran to the back door, grabbed her boots, and disappeared outside.

…..

August 17th, 2012 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Elizabeth was sitting at her easel, her brush to the canvas when Jack walked in, the twins at his heels.

"How's it going?" He asked before kissing her cheek.

"Pretty good."

Jack stood back, looking over her current painting, the head of a beautiful bay horse in dressage tack and a braided mane. "This is amazing, Beth. Another commissioned job?"

"Yes," she answered as she cleaned her brush.

"Wow, this makes...what...five now?"

"Six," she said, smiling. "Word got out I guess."

"That's wonderful," he said, wrapping his arms around her waist as he stood behind her.

The twins moved their toys that Elizabeth kept handy for when they visited her little studio. Colton found a firetruck that made noises from pressing various buttons and ran out to the patio to drive it along the bricks. Peyton was close behind with two plastic horses.

"I'm so glad you've been able to use this studio. I wasn't sure when I built it if it would be what you wanted."

Elizabeth stood and faced her husband. "Jack, this place is perfect. Just perfect. How could you ever think it wouldn't be?"

Jack grabbed the fabric of her shirt at either side of her waist and pulled her to him until their bodies were touching. Their eyes met and a heated passion could be seen, growing behind them.

"I just wasn't sure how you'd want it built."

"I couldn't have even imagined this," she motioned with her hands before laying them on his shoulders. "This is more than perfect."

She closed the gap between them and kissed him, her desire for him taking charge, her mind drifting to the day they had made love in this very building not long after they'd become husband and wife. Her body reacted to the memory, pressing against him, moving in a way that was getting Jack's fire ablaze.

Jack moved his hands up to her head and pulled her ponytail tie out, letting her long brown hair fall around her shoulders. He pushed his hands into her hair, letting it twist around his fingers, pulling her closer, deepening their kiss, tilting his head slightly.

And just as quickly, he pushed her away and looked outside to their children.

"Is it naptime yet?" He asked, his eyes finding hers again. His gaze and expression were full of seriousness.

Elizabeth looked up at the battery-operated clock that hung on her wall, looked back to Jack and nodded.

"You get them to bed while I clean this up. I'll meet you in our bedroom," she grinned.

Jack didn't even say a word, he hurried out of the building, picked up both kids, left their toys right where they fell, and jogged up to the basement sliding door.

…..

August 20th, 2012 – Missouri State Fair, Sedalia

Elizabeth sat with her family while they waited for the final day of the team roping event, with Savannah sitting in front of her, leaning back onto her legs. Peyton was on Sam's lap, Colt was on Charlotte's, and Noel was standing in front of Frank. Tom was busy trying to keep his two boys corralled as they threw popcorn at each other.

"Dada," Colton called out when he saw Jack and Lee entering the arena.

"Yes, Colt. There's your daddy," Charlotte said, pointing toward them. "And there's Uncle Lee."

"Unc Yee!" He shouted, clapping.

When it came time for the guys to ride, it took everything they had to hold the kids back. Peyton, Colton and Noel all called out for their daddies and tried continuously to get down and run to them. When the men started their run, the kids finally settled down and watched them do their job.

Lee nailed his catch a little later than he'd hoped, but it was still a clean, fast rope. Jack hooked both back legs as needed, also not as fast as he'd hoped to. Their final time of 5.8 put them in fourth place for the day, and seventh place for the week, having had a no time on the second day due to Lee missing the head. Jack and Lee both still celebrated their achievement, as they had promised each other they always would, no matter the outcome.

The men joined their families in time to see Rosemary's run. Jack was buried under Peyton and Colton, both climbing all over him, and Lee was being strangled by Noel hugging him too tight, as onlookers pointed and laughed at the proud fathers.

Savannah straightened and slid to edge the bleacher when the barrel racers began. She watched each one, clearly studying them. Tom and Jack watched her and looked at one another, smiling and giving each other a nod. In her mind, she timed out the distance between each barrel, she watched the rider and how she shifted her body at each turn and how she would look ahead toward their next goal. A digital board showed the finished time of each rider, she would quickly glance at it once each horse ran through the timer eye.

When she spotted Rosemary nearing the entry gate, she straightened even more and never took her eyes off her. Delilah was fired up as usual and as soon as Rosie let her loose, the horse dug in with all her might and headed toward the first barrel. The horse looked as if it was floating across the dirt until she reached each barrel, then she'd bend her body and while leaning in, she'd dig in and make the turn.

Sam, Tom and everyone else tried to watch Rosemary's run, but everyone's gaze kept drifting to Savannah, who was very intently watching the horse and rider, clearly dreaming of being out there one day.

Rosemary's ride was clean and penalty free with a time of 15.15, putting her in first place once again for the day, and first place for the week.

Savannah turned toward her mom. "Is she in first place?"

Sam smiled and nodded.

Savannah clapped and turned back to the arena and watched the trucks drive in to pick up the barrels.

Tom leaned forward and tapped his daughter on the shoulder. When she turned to him, he asked, "What do you think?"

"I can't wait to get out there. It's amazing."

Her smile said it all, filled with young anticipation and excitement. Their daughter had always loved horses and riding, but each year her love grew even more and she began to seek out other opportunities to do with her horse, even at this young age. She had been fearless. Always the first one to enter at a water crossing or bridge, always pushing her pony to trust her and allow her to take the animal off the trail and over logs, and anything else she could get away with.

…..

August 23rd, 2012 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Jack led Savannah's new horse into the indoor arena, Savannah and Tom followed closely behind.

"Did you decide on a name?" Jack asked his niece.

"His registered name is Ima Lotta Cash, and they called him Cash. I like that."

"Alright. Come here and take Cash's lead," Jack signed to his niece.

Savannah did as she was told and stood next to her horse, holding the rope that was attached to his new pink halter.

Jack signed the instructions to her, then stood behind her to help her.

"Lift your arm and point in the direction you want him to go. If he doesn't go right away, lean forward slightly and move toward him."

Savannah obeyed, as did Cash. Jack gave her a few more instructions and the ten-year-old and her horse did everything perfectly. With the saddle already on the horse, Jack told Savannah to get on.

As she sat on her horse, her smile filling her entire face, Jack began the real training with both his niece and Cash.

"Cash needs a built-in emergency brake. This is what you will use if anything ever happens and he takes off on you."

Savannah nodded, watching intently, not taking her eyes off her uncle.

As Jack stood on the left side of the horse, he reached over and picked up the right rein. "You will pull this, bringing his nose to your foot. He is stiff in the neck, so it might take a few tries. At first, he may try walking in that direction. You just keep pulling gently until he gives you his head and stops his feet. As soon as he does, release the rein immediately."

Savannah nodded and gave it a try. Her uncle was right, Cash started walking to the right, not bending his neck very far. She continued to pull on the rein until the horse bent his head around slightly and stopped moving his feet. She repeated this several times until Cash would simply bring his head around to her boot without moving his feet. Once Cash perfected it to the right, she repeated everything to the left until he did as she needed.

"Perfect," Jack signed to Savannah, giving her a big smile. "Horses can't run away or buck if their necks are bent. So, if he ever does that, you pull his head around to one side or the other and hold him there until he stops. You also need to do this exercise every time you get on him."

Savannah nodded in understanding.

"Alright then, let's move on."

Jack proceeded to show her how to use her legs and feet to cue the horse into different gaits and directions. Slightly confused at first, Cash quickly began to respond to Savannah's cues and the pair began to relax with each other and a bond between them had already started to form.

After thirty minutes of training, Jack pulled out three barrels that he had purchased the day before, and set them up for Savannah to give it a try. Taking it slow and easy at first, her confidence took form very fast and she had Cash running around them in no time.

Turning to his brother, Jack said, "I think it's time to bring Rosie in."

"Already?" Tom asked.

Jack nodded. "This horse was already doing barrels and leg cues. We just had to train him for the few verbal cues that he was used to. This is a smart horse. He catches onto things very quickly."

"If you think they're ready...then go ahead and give her a call."

…..

August 30th, 2012 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Elizabeth sat on the front porch watching as Peyton and Colton ran through the front yard, being chased by Wyatt. From her vantage point, she could also see Jack in one of the round pens working with the ponies. Peanut was tied up along the rail while he did ground work on Daisy. Elizabeth thought she could see a plastic bag in his hand, but from her distance, she wasn't sure.

She knew that was part of his training, shaking a bag all around the horses. It taught them to keep calm at the sound, learning it wasn't something to be afraid of. She could remember coming across plastic bags, pop cans, among other strange items as they rode, and none of their horses even flinched at the objects. Where others riding by would almost fall off of their horse as it jumped away, acting as if it was a monster that would eat them. Jack had called this desensitizing.

Elizabeth was very thankful for Jack's training methods. She knew she would never have to worry about herself or their children being on an uncontrollable horse once he was done with them.

"Mama, see," Colton yelled as he twirled his tiny rope in front of him. "Like Dada."

A smile grew across her face, reaching her eyes as she watched her son trying to emulate his father. "Go catch 'em," she called out.

Colton ran up to Wyatt and tossed the soft rope across the dog's back, then threw up his arms. The dog remained still until the little boy retrieved the rope.

Elizabeth clapped and let out a laugh.

Peyton ran to Colton and tried to grab the rope from him. Crying, he yelled at his sister and pulled the rope.

Elizabeth stood and went to the twins. Distracting Peyton with another toy, she handed the rope back to Colton.

…..

Jack finished with the ponies and let them loose in the small field west of the barn. After hanging the ropes and halter in the barn, headed to the house. Seeing the twins playing in the yard and Elizabeth sitting on the porch, Jack smiled as he crossed the yard.

Sneaking up behind Colton, he picked him up and tossed him into the air. Colton screamed as he went airborne, followed by loud laughter. Peyton ran up to Jack, her arms up, yelling, "me, me."

Jack picked her up and threw her, catching her as she came back down. He repeated this between each twin, neither ever tiring, but Jack's arms were getting sore.

"Okay, that's enough. You two go play."

Obeying, they returned to their toys and began to play with them.

"Good afternoon, Mrs. Thornton," Jack said, tipping his hat to his wife and taking a seat in the chair next to her.

"Good afternoon, Mr. Thornton," she responded, nodding her head toward him. "How are the ponies coming along."

"Great. They don't seem to be afraid of much of anything. I'll have Savannah come over sometime and help me with them."

"Savannah? What would she do?"

"Sit on them. I sure can't," Jack teased.

"Yes, that's a good idea. Wouldn't want the twins going out and finding their ponies flattened."

"Hey, are you calling me fat?" Jack had an exaggerated expression of shock on his face.

"Never, Babe," Elizabeth winked. "Prime beef...that's what you are."

Jack jumped up and moved so swiftly to Elizabeth that she didn't even know what was happening...until it had. Jack had wrapped his arms around her and twisted, rotating them both until he was wedged into the chair alongside her, his leg over hers, tickling her. She let out a laughter filled scream as she tried to get away from him. The twins ran up and crawled on them both, trying to tickle their parents with the chubby little fingers. Jack and Elizabeth feigned exaggerated laughter, pretending that the twins were getting them good.

Then they switched, and Jack and Elizabeth grabbed the toddlers and began tickling them. Peyton and Colton wiggled and squirmed until they both slid off the chair and took off running across the grass.

Jack returned his leg across his wife's and his arm across her stomach, his other behind her back and nuzzled his face into her neck, the couple squeezed between the arms of the Adirondack chair.

…..

September 2nd, 2012 – Tom and Sam's Ranch

Jack pulled into Tom's drive with his trailer behind him. Tom walked out onto his front porch and watched his brother turn the rig around and back the trailer in with ease.

"What are you doing here?" Tom asked as he walked down the steps, meeting Jack in the yard.

"I have a delivery for you," Jack smiled.

Tom followed Jack to the back of the trailer on this warm September day. A slight breeze blew through, carrying with it the hint of pine.

"What delivery?"

Jack just gave his brother a smile and opened the trailer. "Wait here," he said, gripping the sides of his brother's arms and moving Tom away from the door.

Jack stepped into the trailer and Tom heard the loud steps of a horse backing out. As the blonde tail came into view and the rest of the animal followed as Jack backed the palomino gelding out of the trailer, Tom stood, dumbfounded at his brother's generosity.

"Jack, I told you that you weren't going to do this."

Jack led the horse to his brother and tried handing him the rope.

"Take him, Brother. Please. For me."

"You have to have so much money wrapped up in him. I'm sorry, I just can't."

Jack took Tom's hand with his and placed the rope in it.

"Please, Tom. I want you to have him. You were there for Ma all those years when I couldn't be. You've done so much for me and my family. And this doesn't even come close to repaying you."

"Jack," Tom shook his head as a tear formed in his eye. "You do so much for us, too. Everything you've done for Savannah. I think we're even."

"I'm not keeping track. Are you?" Jack grinned in a way that his dimples were deeper than ever.

Tom knew better than to argue with his older brother. All the ones they'd had in the past, Tom had never won a single time. Not once. He tightened his hand around the rope, then tightened his arms around his brother. "Thank you," he whispered, smacking him on the back.

"It's nothing, Tom." Jack smiled.

"Oh, it's something, Jack. It's definitely something."

"Well, let's see how you look on him. He's ready to go."

The two men walked toward the barn where Tom stored his saddles, lost in conversation as two brothers do.

…..

September 17th, 2012 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Charlotte stepped into the indoor arena and found Jack in the center, kneeling down on one knee, watching the horse at the end of the long rope that he held in his hand.

Jack pulled his hat off and placed it on his knee, then ran his fingers through his hair.

The large black mare was staring Jack down, and Charlotte could see that her shoulder was quivering.

Suddenly, the horse pinned her ears back and charged. Jack was to his feet before Charlotte could even get a word out of her mouth. It was then she noticed he had a whip in his hand and he stepped to the side, just out of the horse's path, and caught the animal on her rump as she passed by Jack.

Jack moved after the mare, forcing it to follow the length of the long rope in a circle around him. Getting after her, Jack continued to snap the whip just behind the horse while he held the rope with the other hand. He repeated this method, making the mare change direction occasionally, snapping the whip each time the horse would begin showing its aggressive behavior.

Charlotte moved to the railing that divided the arena from the viewing area and watched her son take control of an uncontrollable horse.

Finally taking a step back, Jack allowed the horse to stop, turn, and face him. The pair stood still, both breathing hard from the exertion, neither removing their eyes from the other. Jack's shoulders were rising and falling, evidence of him trying to catch his breath. The horse's sides were heaving quickly, also out of breath.

Jack attempted to approach the mare, but as soon as he took one step, the horse pinned her ears back once more and came at him. And again, Jack stepped out of the way and went after her.

Charlotte had seen Thomas do this many times with an overly aggressive horse. A necessary evil to gain control, trust, and respect of a twelve-hundred-pound animal that could easily kill someone in a split second with one strike of a hoof.

Jack and the black horse repeated these acts a few more times before she finally began to submit, realizing that this man was not going to allow her to do whatever she wanted any longer. As they stood and looked at each other, the horse bobbed her head and began to paw the ground. Jack lifted the whip and snapped it next to him, the loud crack echoed through the building.

Immediately, the mare stopped and watched Jack, her head high in the air. As the pair rested, still trying to catch their breaths, the horse slowly began to lower her head and lick her lip. As soon as Jack saw this, he slowly walked to the mare and petted her on the forehead, staying off to the side in case the horse tried to strike at him.

Jack turned and walked to his hat that had landed in the dirt, the horse right at his side. He picked it up and dusted it off, then returned it to his head. Finally looking up, he spotted his mom at the end of the arena, watching him with a proud smile on her face.

"When did you get here, Ma?" He asked as he crossed the sand covered floor.

"When you were kneeling, before this beauty tried to kill you," she replied, slowly reaching out to the horse's forehead when they reached the railing.

"Oh, you missed the first twenty minutes of her trying to kill me then," he joked. I was resting and reevaluating at that moment."

"Tough one, huh?"

"Oh, yes," Jack said as he turned to face the horse and pet her neck. "She attacked her owner. They were about to put her down when someone told them about me. I got the phone call three days ago and she was delivered this morning."

"I'm glad they called you. She's beautiful. It would be such a waste to put a horse like this down."

"I agree. But you can't have a dangerous animal around either. She could kill someone."

"It looked like she was starting to come around though."

"Yes, finally. It took her a very long time to come to the conclusion that I was the boss," Jack grinned. "We'll see if she remembers tomorrow. But I doubt it. I'll probably have to do this over and over for several days, but hopefully not as long." Jack pulled a red handkerchief from his pocket and wiped the sweat from his forehead. "She wore me out. I wasn't sure how much longer I was going to be able to go."

"If she's really that bad, I wish you wouldn't work with her unless someone else is here with you."

"Yeah, Lee will be here from now on. I didn't realize she would be this bad."

"Good. I'm happy to hear that. You don't need to keep your Momma worrying about you all the time."

"Ma, if I was a puppy trainer, you would still worry about me," Jack teased.

"Well, yes, that's true. But it's my job," she said, reaching up and touching his cheek. "I will always worry about my kids. All of them."

"What are you doing here? Did you need something?"

"No, I just stopped by to see my grandbabies and wanted to tell you hello before I left. Beth told me you were out here."

"Always good to see you, Ma," Jack said, leaning over the railing and kissing her cheek.

"Those babies of yours are growing so fast. That Peyton is going to be a handful."

"Going to be? She already is," Jack laughed, keeping his hand on the mare's neck.

Charlotte reached over and placed her hands on Jack's cheeks, looking lovingly in to his eyes. "I am so proud of you, Son."

Jack smiled and dropped his gaze, "Thanks, Ma."

"Look at me, please."

Jack lifted his eyes back up.

"I mean it. I am so very proud of you. You turned your life around and became a man to emulate like your father. He would be so proud of you, too."

"Thank you, Mom." Jack said, laying his hand on her arm. "That means a lot."

"Now, get this crazy horse put away and go see your babies." She stepped back and opened the gate for him. "They kept asking for you," she added proudly.

"Yes, Ma," Jack said as they walked out of the arena. He reached out and grabbed his mom's hand and squeezed it as he passed by.

…..

September 21st, 2012 – Coulter Ranch

Rosemary was leaning over the sink scrubbing a pan when Lee walked in and wrapped his arms around her waist. He bent down and kissed the side of her neck as she tipped her head slightly, enjoying the loving gesture from her husband.

"Got a second to talk?" He asked, brushing his lips against her ear.

"Oh, no," she said, drying her hands and turning around. "This doesn't sound good."

He slid both of his hands into hers then backed against the island, pulling her with him. "Actually, it is good. At least...I think it is."

Lee reached up and moved a stray lock of hair from her face and tucked it behind her ear.

"What is it, Lee?" She asked as she laid her hands on his chest.

"What do you think about having another baby?"

Caught off guard, Rosemary took a step back. "What?"

"Noel is the best thing that ever happened to us. And Jack is over the moon with his two kids and having a son and a daughter. I just thought it would be awesome to have a son. Someone I can teach ranch work to."

"You can teach ranch work to your daughter," she said, almost scolding him with a hint of teasing. Rosemary moved back to Lee and laid her arms across his shoulders. "You do know that we can't pick whether it's a boy or a girl. We get what we get," she said, smiling.

Lee chuckled and replied, "I know. I just wanted to know your thoughts on trying again. I would love a son or daughter equally."

Rosemary thought briefly then looked Lee in the eyes. "Okay."

Lee straightened and stared at Rosemary. "What do you mean by 'okay'?"

"Okay. We can have another baby." Rosemary's smile grew as she watched the reaction on Lee's face. A gamut of emotions flowed through his expressions as he came to the realization of her answer.

"Seriously?"

"Seriously."

Lee picked her up and spun her around before setting her back down, grabbing her face, and kissing her deeply.

…..

October 3rd, 2012 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Elizabeth pulled her SUV into the garage and closed the door behind her. She pulled her few bags of groceries from the back seat and walked out the side door and onto the porch. As she opened the back door that led into the kitchen, she could hear music from Jack's guitar.

After putting the bags on the counter, she peeked around the corner and saw Jack sitting on the couch with his guitar on his lap and the twins on the floor in front of him, dancing along to the music as he played.

Peyton and Colton both had their knees and elbows bent, moving their upper halves back and forth to a beat that didn't quite match what Jack was playing. Several times, he began laughing so much it caused him to mess up his song, sending the kids into fits of giggles each time.

Elizabeth leaned against the banister to the stairs and watched her little family, enjoying life at its fullest. She was eventually spotted by Colton who called out "Mommy" so she joined them, taking each of the children's hands, and began to dance around the floor with them.

Jack watched her, his life, as her smile and laughter filled the room. Her long hair swayed back and forth, brushing across the twins' heads once in a while, making them giggle louder.

"Mama hair," Peyton would say, reaching up to run her hands through it.

Wyatt had been laying at the end of the couch, watching his people, then decided to join them. He jumped up and down while moving around them, barking each time his feet left the floor.

Jack kept the song going, five measures longer than it really was, just so he could watch his family dance and laugh. When he finally stopped, Peyton and Colton both yelled, "More, more." So, Jack started up again with a new one.

This continued for several songs, until Elizabeth was exhausted, Jack's fingers ached, and the ice cream she had just purchased had begun to melt on the counter. As many other days in their beautiful life, Elizabeth cleaned up the mess and put away what little hadn't melted, smiling all the while, and added ice cream to their shopping list once more.

…..

October 9th, 2012 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Jack was working with the black mare in the round pen when Lee showed up, ready to help.

"I've got this one," Jack said. "Why don't you grab that big bay gelding and get him started."

Lee gave Jack a small nod then headed to the barn to retrieve the horse and his training equipment.

Jack had saddled the mare for the past three sessions, pleased with her response. Today was the day he would try to get on her. After sending her around the corral several times in each direction, he brought her back to the center of the pen.

He pulled her head around, bending her neck, until her nose was at his shoulder. Grabbing the saddle horn with his left hand and the cantle with his right, he placed a foot into the stirrup and bounced up and down a few times, gauging the horse's reaction. Satisfied, Jack stepped up into the stirrup and leaned his body across the mare's back. With the horse remaining still, he slowly swung his leg over her, careful not to brush his leg across her rump, and eased down into the seat.

The mare remained still as Jack did this and petted her neck. But as soon as he lifted the reins and gave her a gentle squeeze with his feet, the horse exploded and began to buck. Jack held on, pulling the mare's head to the right, she began to spin until she tripped and fell, sending Jack into the dirt.

"Hey, man, you alright?" Lee called out, running to the pen with the gelding in tow.

Jack stood and dusted himself off. He bent down and picked up his hat, wiped the dirt from it, then placed it back on his head.

"Yeah, I'm good. She's got some fight in her still," he said, a small grin on his face. But as he walked to the horse, Lee could see him moving with a slight limp.

"You sure you're good?" Lee asked again.

"Yes, I'll be fine."

Jack took the mare back to the center of the arena, tightened the cinch on the saddle, and repeated everything once more.

Getting the same reaction from the mare, Jack kicked her into a run and kept her going until she gave in out of sheer exhaustion. Each time she'd begin to buck, Jack would kick her, forcing her to move her feet and run. He'd then allow her to slow until she bucked again. This continued for a while, and Lee remained nearby in case Jack needed help or got hurt.

After twenty minutes of the battle of the wills, the big black mare surrendered for the final time. Jack had won.

…..

That evening, Jack snuck upstairs without letting Elizabeth know he'd come in. He dropped his dirty clothes in a heap in the middle of the bathroom floor and turned to look into the mirror. A large bruise was forming on his hip from where he'd hit the ground, the evidence of the pain he was feeling deep to his bone.

He stepped into the shower to wash up, planning to quickly dress and get back downstairs.

Elizabeth walked into the bathroom, having heard the shower running. She walked up to the steam covered shower door and pulled it open.

"Hey there, Cowbo...what happened to your hip?"

Jack spun around, startled at her voice. He lowered his hand, attempting to cover the large bruise. "Oh, this. Nothing...I'm fine."

"Jack Thornton, what happened?"

"I got thrown today while working with that black mare. I'm fine...really. It's just a bruise."

"That mare again. First, she tries to run you over, and now this? I don't think you should work with her anymore."

Jack turned the water off then walked to his wife, cupping her face in his wet hands, "Beth, I'm fine. It's part of training. This isn't the first time this has happened and it won't be the last. I had a breakthrough with her today, though, so you don't have to worry about her anymore."

He could feel her relax in his hands and he stepped even closer, kissing her as he moved his hands down her back. Elizabeth wrapped her arms around Jack and slid her hands across his back and down to his butt. Pulling Jack toward her, she pressed her body to his, feeling his immediate reaction to her.

"Dadda!" Colton yelled as he ran into the room.

Jack straightened and covered his growing erection with his hands as Elizabeth quickly turned around and stood in front of him, blocking him from Colton's view.

"Daddy," Peyton called out next as she entered the room.

"Good grief," Elizabeth could hear Jack whisper behind her as he let out an exaggerated breath.

"Hey, kids, let's let Daddy finish in here. How about we go find something for supper."

She got both kids to turn around and walk out as Jack grabbed his towel and wrapped it around his waist, drawing in a deep breath and shaking his head.

…..

October 21st, 2012 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Jack ran up the steps to the covered porch of his house, soaked from the torrential rain that was falling. He walked to the back door and stepped into the mud room, took his boots off while trying not to drop mud everywhere, then removed all of his wet clothing.

As he walked through the kitchen and toward the steps that led upstairs, he stopped and stared at three suitcases that were sitting by the front door. Looking up the stairs, he jogged up them and into their bedroom. Searching for his wife, he finally found her in their bathroom with the twins, pulling Peyton's hair up into two little ponytails.

"Hey, Cowboy," she said, eyeing him up and down. "Um, lose something outside?" She asked, motioning to his near-naked body, wearing only his boxer briefs and t-shirt.

"No, I took them off downstairs. They were soaked and covered in mud. It's really coming down out there." He crossed the room and wrapped his arms around Elizabeth's waist and kissed the side of her neck.

Peyton was sitting on the counter facing the mirror, watching Jack's reflection. "Hi, Dadda."

"Hey, Pey," he replied, pinching her cheek.

Colton, who had been sitting on the floor in front of the shower, was on his feet now, tapping Jack on his leg.

"Hey, Colt." Jack said as he bent down and picked up his son, "How's my buddy?"

"Go see Gramma now."

"Oh, sorry, Colt. Not today."

"Yes," Peyton said, "we go see Gramma now."

Jack looked at Elizabeth's reflection and found her grinning at him.

"What are the suitcases downstairs for?" He asked, stepping beside her and looking directly at her.

"Well...we are going on a little trip," she answered, turning her head to face him, still grinning ear to ear.

"What kind of trip?"

"You'll see," she said as she finished Peyton's hair. Lifting her daughter up from the countertop, she lowered her to the floor and watched as the little girl ran out of the room. "It's a surprise," she informed him.

She kissed him on the cheek then headed out to find where Peyton had run off to. Jack was close behind still carrying Colton.

"What?" Jack asked, chasing after his wife who was running after their daughter. "What are you talking about?"

Finally grabbing Peyton and picking up the giggling little girl, Elizabeth turned around to find Jack directly in front of her.

"We are going on a little trip. It's a surprise. So don't ask any more questions." Still grinning, she walked past him back to their bedroom.

"But Beth, I have the horses to take care of. And what about the twins? Are they going? Where are we going and for how long?" Jack spit out the questions as he followed her into the bedroom.

Setting Peyton back down, Elizabeth turned back to Jack. She took Colton from his arms and set him down, watching as he took off after his sister toward their bedroom.

Taking Jack's arms in her hands, she looked up into his eyes. "Jack, everything has been taken care of. The twins are staying with Mom and Frank. Lee is taking care of the horses. Tom is coming over to pick up Wyatt. We will only be gone for four days."

"But where..."

Elizabeth raised her hand to Jack's mouth and covered it, stopping him from further questions. "No more questions, because you will get no more answers." She stepped around Jack to check on the twins, then turned back to face him again. "Now, please, go clean up and get dressed. We have a plane to catch."

…..

Jack was behind his wife as they slowly moved through the line at the TSA check at the airport. Still not knowing where they were going, Jack ran every scenario through his mind that he could think of.

Let's see. Only four days. It has to be in the states then. I have no idea what she packed so I don't know if it's beach or someplace cooler. Hmmm...where has she wanted to go? Jack moved up a few steps, watching Elizabeth checking something on her phone. I guess I now know how she felt when I didn't tell her about our honeymoon. They moved forward a few more feet. Where could we possibly be going? I hope it's a beach so I can see her in her bathing suit again. A smile grew across Jack's face.

"What are you grinning at?" Elizabeth asked, now facing him and staring at him.

Looking down at his wife, Jack's cheeks grew warm. "Where are we going?"

"Geez, Jack. You're worse than a child."

He stepped toward her and wrapped his arms around her waist. Bending down, he pressed his mouth to her ear. "Will I get to see you in your bathing suit again?"

A chill went through her body as his breath grazed her ear. "Fine, yes."

Straightening and grinning, he replied, "Good," then kissed her.

…..

As soon as she stopped beside two empty seats near gate B23, Jack looked at the sign to see the destination.

Reno, Nevada

Completely confused, Jack turned to Elizabeth. "Reno?"

"Yes, Reno."

"But...," Jack paused and thought for a moment, "I thought we were going someplace warm with a beach."

Elizabeth had just sat down and looked up at Jack. "Where on earth did you get that idea?"

"You said I would see you in your bathing suit, so I just..."

"You should never assume, Mr. Thornton," Elizabeth teased.

Finally sitting down, Jack surrendered and leaned back into his seat.

…..

Elizabeth was holding Jack's hand as the plane descended toward their destination. She looked out the window and watched the beautiful landscape that was coming into view as they moved below the clouds. Jack had fallen asleep so she squeezed his hand to wake him.

Jack sat up with a start, looking around, trying to figure out where he was. He had been lost in a deep sleep, exhausted from the extra training he had been putting in on a couple difficult horses. Looking to Elizabeth, he grinned and remembered that they were on their way to a weekend alone...somewhere.

He leaned over her, his face next to hers, as they looked out the window together. He kissed her cheek before leaning back into his seat, preparing for the landing by putting his tray up and returning his seat back to an upright position.

After gathering their suitcases and securing the rental car, Elizabeth gave Jack the directions while he drove, guiding him to what will be their little personal haven for the long weekend.

Fifty minutes after pulling away from the airport, Jack was turning into the driveway of a beautiful lake front home nestled in the trees.

"Beth, this place is beautiful," Jack said as he put the car in park.

"It looks just like the photos," Elizabeth replied, in awe of the home.

The couple left their luggage by the front door and toured the house and the property. Flanked by pine trees and aspen, the house was semi-private with a private beach backing up to the shore of Lake Tahoe. The panoramic mountain view was breathtaking from the back and upper decks. The personal beach included a fire pit and lounge chairs and stretched all the way to the water's edge.

The two-story home featured a living room with a huge sectional, looking out over the lake through large windows, as did the master bedroom from the second floor.

After taking their bags to the master suite, they walked along their beach to the water's edge, hand in hand, taking in the magnificent views. Jack moved behind her and wrapped his arms around her.

"This is perfect, Beth. Thank you." He said, kissing her cheek.

"We needed this," she added.

"Yes, we did." Jack turned around and faced the house, spotting the hot tub. "How about some time in that?"

"Sounds wonderful," she replied, taking his hand as they walked back into the house.

Elizabeth removed some of the clothes from the suitcase, finding her bathing suit at the bottom. It was Jack's favorite, the turquoise and gold one that he had picked out. She laid it on the bed and began putting her things away in the closet and dresser.

Jack walked out of the bathroom, and seeing the sparkly fabric lying on the bed, a smile filled his face as his gaze moved to his wife. Elizabeth felt him looking at her and raised her eyes, finding Jack with his dimpled grin, his eyes moving from her to the suit and back.

"You brought the good one," he said, raising his eyebrows up and down. "What did you pack for me?" He asked as he grabbed his bag and began to dig around.

"It's in there," she answered, standing still and watching.

He continued to shove his clothes around, looking for the familiar fabric of board shorts, then froze. His eyes met hers and he straightened, shaking his head.

"You didn't."

"Oh...yes...I did," she replied, trying her hardest to hold back her laughter.

Jack pulled out the red, white and blue speedo that he had bought on their honeymoon as a joke.

"I thought I threw this away," he said, twirling the tiny item around on his finger.

"You did," she said, a wry grin taking residence on her mouth. "I took it out when you weren't looking. You never know when the situation might arise that you would have to wear it again."

Jack began to laugh at her choice of words. "A situation might arise, huh? You put that suit on and there will definitely be something...a-rising."

"Jack Ashton Thornton. Your mind," she said, picking up a shirt and throwing it at him.

"You started it," he teased, catching the garment and tossing it back. "Well, let's get these things on," he said, pushing his pants off his hips and letting them fall to the floor.

"Here," she added as she pulled his board shorts from her case and laid them on the bed. "Those were just a joke."

"Oh, noooo. Happy wife, happy life. I aim to please," he stated as he pulled the speedos up and on. "You packed 'em, I'm wearing 'em."

"Seriously, Jack. It was just a joke."

"Well, then...the jokes on you." He moved to Elizabeth's side, bent down and picked up her sequined suit from the bed and held it up in front of her, hanging it off the tip of his finger. "And it would please me very much to see you in this again." His voice was soft and seductive as he pressed his lips to her neck. A small moan escaped her, and Jack straightened. "I'll see you down there."

And with that, Jack turned and strutted out of the bedroom in the tiny suit, shaking his butt back and forth as he walked.

Once Elizabeth got control of her spinning mind from his kiss and then her laughter from his antics, she put the bathing suit on and found Jack already relaxing in the hot tub.

She stepped into it, moving slowly, letting her body get acclimated to the hot water. Jack's eyes never left her as he scanned her from head to toe. That suit had done a number on him when he saw her in it the first time...and nothing had changed. She was just as beautiful now as she was then...if not more.

Jack moved through the water, meeting her as she sunk into the hot tub. The jets were already on, bubbles covered the surface of the steaming water. Their hearts raced as if it was the first time they had ever been together. Years hadn't changed that...they never would. Time hadn't existed in their love for one another: never growing tired or complacent, only growing in intensity. Racing hearts, sweaty palms, labored breaths, accompanied them every time they were in close vicinity of one another. Fanning and feeding the flame with every touch.

As she sat down in the curved portion of the fiberglass, Jack was already in front of her. He pressed his body to hers, pushing her into the form of the seat. She moved her arms around him, pulling him against her even more. She could feel that he was already ready...ready for her. Elizabeth rolled him, quickly swapping positions. Jack now in the seat, Elizabeth over him. Trying to keep her body from lifting from the pressure of the air moving through the water, she straddled his lap, sitting on her knees.

Their lips met, both moving toward each other, neither wanting to wait any longer. Their kisses were filled with urgency and desire, as they usually were, never able to quench the thirst they had for one another.

Jack's hands moved behind her, fumbling with the strap of the bikini top, his lips never leaving hers. After finally getting the ties free, he slid his hands across her shoulders and down her arms. Elizabeth grabbed the bathing suit and lifted it over her head, the upper tie still knotted behind her neck.

Jack's gaze lowered, taking in the beauty before him. "God, you are so beautiful," he said just before pulling her down and kissing her. His hands rested on the sides of her head, his fingers in her hair, his lips on hers, as, kiss after kiss, the flames grew into a roaring forest fire, despite the fact that they were submerged in water.

Elizabeth stood and removed her bikini bottoms, then reached under the water and pulled down Jack's. The look of desire covered Jack's expression, as it did Elizabeth's.

The sun had set just before they went outside. The gold and orange hues had faded, leaving behind a dark blue canvas covered in stars. A boat passed nearby, but Jack and Elizabeth were lost in their own world and in the dark, nothing would stop them now.

They moved together like an intricate tango, never missing a step. The rustle in a bush as a squirrel ran through went unnoticed by the couple, their focus remained on one another and nothing else. Their eyes were locked with each other, their movements never slowed.

A cloud passed in front of the moon, darkening their little corner slightly for a fleeting moment. Soft spoken voices from a balcony conversation a few houses down floated overhead. A horn honking from down the street set two dogs into a frenzy of barking. A few other sounds from unknown sources filled the air.

All of these were disregarded by Jack and Elizabeth as he held her, cradled against his chest, her legs draped over his. The only sights and sounds that they noticed were each other's rapid heartbeats and irregular breathing, and the palpable love between them.

The remainder of their days at the lake were filled with kayaking, hikes, and time in each other's arms.

….

October 24th, 2012 – Lake Tahoe

Elizabeth woke on the final morning of their extended weekend away, finding herself alone in the bed. She got up, grabbed her satin robe, and went searching for Jack, tying it closed as she walked. She found him in the kitchen, no shirt, wearing only his favorite navy and white lounge pants, cooking breakfast. Hearing her footsteps, he looked up and smiled as she entered the room.

"Good morning, beautiful. Happy anniversary." he said as he scraped the eggs from the pan onto a plate next to the bacon.

"Good morning, Cowboy. Happy anniversary. I see that you're spoiling me again." She pulled out a wooden bar stool and sat down across from Jack who stood at the stove in the island.

"Always and forever," he replied, flashing his dimpled grin that he knew drove her crazy.

Elizabeth rested her arms on the island and looked her husband up and down. "If I wasn't mistaken, I'd say that you were trying to seduce me in your shrewd little ways." She raised her left eyebrow and the corners of her mouth lifted slightly.

"What? What makes you think that?" Jack returned the frying pan to the burner that was now turned off, then rested his hands on the edge of the counter, waiting for her to answer.

"Hmmm...let me see." She lifted her hand, her index finger pointing toward him, "no shirt."

"What are you talking about? I walk around like this all the time," he teased, spreading his arms out.

"While cooking breakfast?" she tipped her head.

"It's the only way to cook breakfast," he crossed his arms across his chest.

"And you keep flashing your dimples at me. You know what those do."

"Oh, do I?" Jack grinned even bigger, his dimples going deeper as he moved around the island. He lifted his hand to her hair, softly pushing it away from her face. "What else am I doing?"

"Well...," she swallowed hard. "You're wearing my favorite cologne."

"Hmm mmm. Anything else," he brushed his knuckles along her jaw.

She pushed her head to his hand and drew in a deep breath. Then her eyes moved up his body, stopping when their gazes locked. "Our breakfast will get cold."

"I'll make more."

Jack pushed her stool back, stepped in between her and the island, reached under her arms and lifted her to him. Their arms encircled one another, drawing their bodies in as close as they could. Jack spun them around, pressing her against the counter. He lowered his eyes and moved his hands to the tie that held her robe closed. Pulling on the strap that hung down, it untied and the satin fabric fell open, revealing her naked body underneath.

Jack's eyes quickly raised to hers, a crooked smiled took form on his mouth. He looked at her lips and licked his, then lifted her onto the island, sliding his hands around her waist beneath the robe.

…..

Their extended weekend had come to an end, and Jack and Elizabeth reluctantly packed their suitcases. After checking the house one last time, they pulled out of the driveway and headed to the airport. It was a bittersweet moment as they loved their time away, but both were missing the twins terribly.

The flight home was quiet as they both got a meager amount of sleep, attempting to recoup what was lost from conversations and love making. Their ride home was just as quiet as Elizabeth slept from the airport until she heard the crunching of the gravel under their tires.

Charlotte was standing outside, a twin's hand in each of hers when they arrived. As soon as they were parked in the garage and out of the SUV, Charlotte released the hands of the anxious toddlers, and they ran to their parents. Peyton jumped into Elizabeth's arms and Colton into Jack's, as the family got some much-needed loving and hugs from their time apart.