There's several of you that I used to hear from in reviews, that don't seem to be leaving them anymore. Are you still with me? I hope I haven't lost any readers with this story. Started out rough...a bit of a rough patch in the middle...and now they are finding their new normal. Or are they? Very mild steam alert...your imagination will be needed on this one.
Please leave a review and let me know who's still with me. :) Thank you!
July 22nd, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch
Jack and Elizabeth returned to the house once Hope had a full belly and was resting. Charlotte returned home after many hugs and thanks, promising to stop by later. While Jack took the kids upstairs to their large tub and got them all bathed, Elizabeth started lunch. Charlotte had taken them out to their playground and all three had sand filled hair after rolling around underneath the bridge.
Once bathed and dried, he took them to their rooms, laid out their clothes, and told them to get dressed while he went to help mommy with lunch.
Jack walked into the kitchen to find Elizabeth absentmindedly stirring a pot of noodles. He walked up behind her and brushed his knuckle along her cheek. "Are you alright?"
"Hmm?" she asked, turning her head toward him. "Yes. I'm fine," she added, returning her eyes to the noodles.
Jack stepped back and leaned against the island, resting his hands on the cool granite. "What's wrong, Beth?"
She set the spoon down and turned around. "What makes you think something is wrong?"
Moving back to her, Jack rested his hands on her hips and looked into her eyes. "Elizabeth, don't you think I know you by now? I can tell when something is bothering you."
"This morning just brought back some memories. Ones I wish I could forget."
Nodding, Jack wrapped his arms around her. "I thought so. It brought back memories for me, too, so I figured it did for you."
"Will I ever be able to go through a month without thinking of that day?"
Jack tucked her hair behind her ear, his eyes searching her face. "I can't answer that for you. But you almost died that day. It was very traumatic for us both. It will not be easily forgotten."
"When you told me what Sally died from, it was all I could do not to break down in front of the kids."
"I know. I'm sorry. I should not have told you."
"No, I don't ever want you to hold stuff from me because you think it will upset me."
"Okay," Jack replied, raking his fingers through her long hair. "Sometimes I need reminded of just how strong you are," he grinned, then kissed her gently.
The timer began beeping, so Elizabeth turned around and shut off the burner.
"I'll get that," Jack said, reaching for the pot. He carried it to the sink and poured the contents into the colander that Elizabeth had already placed there.
The couple worked together, finishing the preparations of the food, plating the meal, and getting the kids situated around the dining room table.
The children rambled non-stop during their lunch. Excited over the future trip to Monster Jam, Blake had to fill in the twins about what a Monster truck was. Blake was also still talking about his sleepover with Austin, and every little thing they did.
"I want a sleepover," Peyton said, jealous of all the fun the boys had.
"Well, we can probably work something out," Jack smiled. "Your mom and I will talk about it later."
"Okay," she said excitedly, over the prospect of it.
"I'm sure little Hope is probably getting hungry again," Jack stated.
"Who's Hope?" Blake asked.
"She's an orphan filly that was born this morning," Jack answered.
"What's a or...or..," Colton began.
"Orphan," Jack repeated.
"Ya, what's that?" the little boy asked.
"She doesn't have a mommy so we have to take care of her."
"Like Blakey?"
"Well, not exactly," Jack answered, wondering about the can of worms he'd just opened.
"What you mean, not exactly?" Peyton asked.
"Blake isn't an orphan. He has a daddy," Elizabeth answered, trying to help Jack.
"Doesn't the filly have a daddy?" she asked
Jack and Elizabeth looked at each other, grinning, as they tried to get through this line of questioning.
"Peyton, horses aren't like children. Yes, they have a daddy, but their daddy doesn't help take care of them. Only their mommy does," Jack stated, hoping this would clear things up.
"But, why?" Colton added.
Elizabeth was trying to hide her amusement by covering her mouth.
"It's just the way it is, Colt," Jack stated. "Horses only have mommies. So, when the mommy dies, they are called orphans, just because they don't have anyone to feed them and care for them."
"Oh, okay," he said, his expression showing he was still confused.
"So, I'm not an orphan?" Blake asked, his eyes filled with worry.
Jack turned his chair to face his son, and pulled Blake's chair toward him. "Blake, no, you are not an orphan. I'm your daddy, I take care of you and love you. And Elizabeth loves you. You have a family. Horses and other animals are very different from people."
Blake nodded and smiled, "Okay, Daddy."
"Do you understand the difference, Blake?" Elizabeth asked.
The little boy turned his head to look at her and nodded. "Horses don't have families, only mommies."
Elizabeth smiled, "That's right, Blake." Turning to the twins, she asked, "Do you two understand why Blake isn't an orphan?"
"Because he has a mommy and daddy now," Peyton responded proudly.
"He's always had a daddy, sweetheart," Elizabeth added.
"Oh, ya."
"Okay, so, now that that's all cleared up, would you three like to go help Mommy feed Hope?"
…..
Elizabeth walked toward the barn, bottle in hand, all three children trailing closely behind her.
"She can walk?" Blake asked, skipping ahead of Elizabeth and walking backwards so he could see his mom's face.
"Yes, she started walking a few hours after she was born."
"Wow!" Blake exclaimed, spinning in a circle and almost falling down.
"Can I feed the baby?" Peyton asked, joining Blake and attempting to walk backwards, too.
"Yes, all of you can take turns."
"Yeah!" Shouts from the young ones filled the air as they entered the barn.
Elizabeth opened the stall door and let the kids walk in first. Hope greeted them with excited whinnies and immediately began searching for her bottle.
"Here, Blake, hold this," Elizabeth said, with Hope already latching onto her lunch. "Hold it up."
Blake was giggling, joined by the twins, as the little foal aggressively sucked on the bottle, pushing into it occasionally.
"Okay, it's Peyton's turn now," Elizabeth said, holding the bottle until her daughter was gripping it tightly.
Colton was holding the bottle when Hope sucked out the last drops. The filly pushed hard against the bottle, trying to get more, and almost knocked it out of his hands. Colt broke out in laughter, causing the filly to whinny once more.
They spent a few more minutes with Hope, each of the kids taking turns petting her so not to overwhelm her. When it was time to return to the house to help daddy, all three kids let out a uniformed sigh, and left the stall with slouched shoulders and pouty lips.
Blake ran into the house first, closely followed by Colton and Peyton, leaving the front door open. Elizabeth stepped inside, closing the door behind her, and proceeded upstairs to help Jack with the laundry.
"Where are all the clothes?" she asked, entering the bedroom to find Jack pushing a dresser drawer closed.
"Put away."
"You folded everything and put the kids' stuff away already?"
Jack walked up to Elizabeth and wrapped his arms around her waist. "Yes, and ours. I hung your dress up in the closet."
Elizabeth laid her arms across the top of his shoulders, and with one hand behind his neck, she pulled her husband's head down until his lips met hers. "Thank you, Jack."
"Of course," he replied, kissing her once more. "How was Hope? Did the kids have fun feeding her?"
"Oh, yes. They loved it. And she is just precious."
"Feel up to moving some hay? Or do you need a nap?"
"I think I've gotten my second wind," she replied smiling. "I could drive a tractor."
Jack let out a quick breath, the image of his wife in the Massey Ferguson getting him wound up. "You know...we might have to take a soak in the tub tonight after the kids go to bed."
"Oh, really?"
"Most definitely. You know the sight of you driving the tractor gets me going," he winked.
"Jack, I could be wearing a burlap sack and pulling weeds in a garden and it would...get you going."
Jack shrugged his shoulders and grinned. "True. But only because I would be thinking about what was under that burlap sack."
"Jack Thornton."
"Elizabeth Thornton...what about you and Wrangler butts?"
"Only one," she said, then patted his. "Only one."
…..
Elizabeth was in the cab of their tractor, with Peyton sitting in the buddy seat on her left that Jack installed the previous year. She followed Jack, who was in the truck with the boys, out to the hay field to begin picking up large, round hay bales. With the hay forks through the bale, she lifted it and began her trek back to the barn.
Tom and Lee arrived a few minutes later, gloves on and hay hooks in hand. Jack drove the truck, hayrack in tow, while Lee tossed small square bales onto it and Tom stacked them. Once the rack was full, Lee jumped onto it with Tom, and Jack drove them to the barn. The boys were in the cab with Jack, talking the entire time and playing with a few plastic animal toys that they'd brought along. They were kneeling on the floor, facing the back seat, walking their horses, cows, and sheep across the leather seat.
Jack leaned against the cab of the truck, feeling guilty as he watched Tom and Lee unload the hay by themselves.
"I can help you," he finally stated, beginning to climb onto the hayrack.
Tom quickly blocked him by putting his foot in Jack's way. "No way, Brother. Elizabeth would kill us all."
"That's right, Jacko. And I don't feel like dying today," Lee stated, picking up another bale and adding it to the stack inside a stall."
Jack let out an aggravated breath and stepped back. "Fine."
The two men made quick work with unloading and restacking the hay, then both sat on the edge of the hayrack, waiting for Jack to take them back to the field for another load.
Elizabeth had moved seven bales into the barn by now, and was heading out for the eighth when she and Jack reached the path at the same time. Smiling, he tipped his hat and motioned for her to go first.
Two more loads of small bales, one of which was delivered to Lee's barn, and fifteen more trips with large bales, and the group was finished before suppertime. Elizabeth backed the tractor into the shed and parked it. Once on the ground, she lowered Peyton down, and the little girl took off toward her daddy who was standing in the doorway of the horse barn. As she jumped, Jack caught her and tossed her into the air, her little arms and legs spreading out as if she was flying.
Colton came sprinting out of the barn, followed closely by Lee who was chasing him around the grass. Blake walked out of the barn backwards, facing Tom, asking him what Austin might be doing.
The group converged in the middle of the gravel between the buildings, where Elizabeth thanked Lee and Tom for helping Jack and not letting him pick up a bale.
"See, Jacko," Lee said, shoving Jack with his elbow. "Tom and I get to live another day."
"That's what you think," Jack said, pretending to run at Lee.
Lee took off, his boots sliding across the rocks, and losing his footing, he went down. He lay flat on his back, his arms outstretched, as all three kids dogpiled on top of him.
"Ugh!" he shouted as they landed on his stomach.
Jack, Elizabeth and Tom watched and laughed, leaving Lee to fend for himself.
…..
July 24th, 2014 – Bryant Ranch - Jay, Oklahoma
Jack turned the truck into the drive of Bryant Ranch, owners of Watch Jack Winit. The men looked around as they neared the barn. It was a small acreage with a modest home, barn, round pen, and large arena.
An older man stepped off the small front porch to meet the guys as they stepped out of the truck. Jack walked toward the man, removing his hat as he neared him.
"You must be Jimmy," Jack said, his hand out.
The man took it, shaking it firmly, "Yes, sir. And you must be Jack."
"Yes, sir," Jack replied, turning toward his brothers. "This is Tom and Lee."
"Howdy," Jimmy said, tipping his hat toward the men.
"Hello, Sir."
Jack returned his hat to his head and quickly scanned the property, "You have a nice place here."
"Thank you. The missus and I like it," he grinned. "Well, let's go see the reason y'all are here." Jimmy led the men into the barn and to a stall at the end of the concrete aisle.
The guys stayed back while Jimmy opened the door, snapped a lead onto the stallion's halter, and led him out into the aisle.
"Whoa," Lee exclaimed once he got a good look at the horse.
"He's amazing, Jack," Tom added.
Jack walked to the horse, laying his hand on the animal's forehead. He looked into the stallion's soft eyes and ran his hands across them and down the horse's jaw. "Hey there, boy," Jack said softly. "May I?" he asked, holding his hand out for the rope.
"Of course," Jimmy replied, laying the lead in Jack's hand. "And I must add, this horse must have been destined for you," the old man grinned, "Jack."
Jack chuckled and nodded. "Yes, we'll have to get a different barn name for this young man."
Jack led the horse out of the barn and into the grassy area out front, into the sunlight to take a good look at the animal. He circled him, looking over every inch, lifted each leg, inspected his hoof and gently set it back down. The entire time, the stallion remained calm and mellow, just as Jack had hoped.
"He's perfect," he stated, stepping back for one more look.
The stallion was a buckskin quarter horse. With most of his body being a light tan, his legs, mane and tail were a rich black. He was muscled as Jack wanted, along with a perfect confirmation.
"How is he to ride?" Jack asked.
"He's just over two, so he's only been ridden for about five months, but he's doing great. He loves the cows and will work them all day long."
"Wonderful."
"He seems so calm," Lee stated, circling the horse.
"He always has been. He's the only stallion I've ever owned that kept a level head at all times. Now, not to say he always will, he's still young."
"No, of course," Jack stated, unable to take his eyes off the beautiful animal. "A horse will always be a horse, no matter the sex."
"That's correct, young man." Jimmy repeatedly looked at Jack, as if trying to figure something out. "You look awfully familiar," he finally stated.
"Well, this is the Jack Thornton," Lee quipped. "Three-time world champion bull rider."
The old man snapped his fingers, then pointed at Jack, "That's it! Boy, son, you were quite the rider. The wife and I watched you win World's in Vegas."
"Thank you, sir."
"Was sad to hear that you retired, but totally understandable. Family's first."
"Yes, it is, sir. Most definitely."
"So, is Jack here going to work for you?" Jimmy asked.
"He sure will, sir," Jack replied. "I hope a cashier's check from my bank will be alright."
"That will be just fine, young man."
Jack removed the paper from his pocket and handed it to Jimmy.
"I'll be right back with his paperwork," Jimmy stated as he walked toward the house. Looking over his shoulder, he called back, "Do you care if I bring the missus out to meet ya?"
"That would be just fine, sir," Jack chuckled.
"This horse is gorgeous," Tom stated, now walking around the stallion, stopping to pet his neck. "I'm sure you've already picked out a new barn name for him already. We need something other than Jack."
Jack laughed, "Yes, I have."
"Well, spit it out," Lee said impatiently.
"Maverick."
"Of course," Tom laughed. "After your favorite movie."
Jack grinned and shrugged. "It fits him, too," Jack added, petting the horse's forehead. "Isn't that right, Mav?"
Jimmy returned with his wife, Kim, who was excited to meet Jack Thornton. After a quick hug, she stepped back and caught sight of Lee.
"You're Lee Coulter."
"Yes, ma'am."
"Jimmy," she elbowed him, "You didn't tell me that Lee Coulter was here, too. This is an exciting day," she proclaimed.
The men were laughing as Jimmy widened his eyes and shrugged his shoulders. "Sorry, Dear."
The group visited for a few more minutes, then Jack loaded Maverick onto the trailer. The horse walked on with no issues, causing Jack to smile at his purchase once more.
They shook hands with the older couple and said their goodbyes, then the guys loaded into the cab of the truck and began their three-hour drive back home.
"I can't wait to see some foals from this guy," Tom stated as Jack turned the truck onto the highway.
"Same here," Lee added from the back seat. He leaned forward, and rested his arms on the seat back. "He is one good looking horse."
"Yes, I was very pleased with him. He looks better in person than in the photos, and he looks damn good in the photos."
"Are you going to ride him? Use him for roping or anything?" Tom asked.
"I don't know. Haven't really thought about it. I'll see how he does and decide from there."
Lee leaned back into his seat and watched the landscape pass in a blur. "Well, he sure is going to be one lucky bastard."
"Why's that?" Jack asked.
"All those mares and he's the only stud."
The men burst out in laughter as Jack merged onto the interstate that would lead them back into Missouri.
…..
July 28th, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch
Elizabeth woke and rolled to her side. Once her eyes had adjusted to the light and were fully opened, she noticed Jack was lying on his side, staring at her and smiling.
"Good morning, Beautiful," he said, reaching over and touching her cheek.
"Good morning, Cowboy."
Jack continued to stroke the soft skin of her jaw as he began to hum. It was a familiar song to Elizabeth; one Jack would sing to her frequently.
"Can you please sing it?" she asked, slipping her hand into his.
"Good mornin' beautiful
How was your night?
Mine was wonderful
With you by my side
And when I open my eyes
And see your sweet face
It's a good mornin' beautiful day
I couldn't see the light
I didn't know day from night
I had no reason to care
But since you came along
I can face the dawn
'Cause I know you'll be there
Good mornin' beautiful
How was your night?
Mine was wonderful
With you by my side
And when I open my eyes
And see your sweet face
It's a good mornin' beautiful day
I'll never worry
If it's rainin' outside
'Cause in here with you girl
The sun always shines
Good mornin' beautiful
How was your night?
Mine was wonderful
With you by my side
And when I open my eyes
And see your sweet face
It's a good mornin' beautiful day, yeah
Good mornin' beautiful day"
"It's such a beautiful song," Elizabeth said when Jack finished.
"For a beautiful woman," he replied, reaching his hand into her hair. He kissed her, his desire and need evident in his lips. "Come here," he said softly.
He rolled onto his back, pulling her over and on top of him. Their lips met once more, heated longing taking charge, as they slowly made love as the early morning sun gradually appeared on the horizon.
…..
July 31st, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch
Elizabeth was walking through the basement when she stepped into the room where Becky had lived. Her things were still there, a few framed photos, her comforter, and a small stack of books. Elizabeth walked over to the photos and picked up one of Becky holding Blake when he was a newborn. Her face was filled with excitement, wonder, happiness, and fear.
Elizabeth smiled and returned the frame to the nightstand. Picking up another, she stared at the woman in the photo. It was a younger version of Becky, standing next to her horse, and she was holding a trophy buckle in her hand. This must be the Becky that had attracted Jack all those years ago, Elizabeth thought to herself. With no sickness ravaging her body yet, Becky had been a beautiful woman. Young, vivacious, and full of life, she had her arm wrapped around Max's neck, her cheek against his, proudly displaying her win from that day.
She set the frame back onto the table, and moved through the room, touching each of her friend's things. Elizabeth walked to the closet and opened the door, peering inside at the few items that Becky had owned. Her eyes scanned the contents: boots and shoes on the floor, a few pairs of jeans neatly folded and hung on a hanger, several blouses, two dresses, and a box on the top shelf.
Elizabeth had never noticed this box before. It wasn't large, maybe the size of a shoebox. And in large black letters from a permanent magic marker, was the word BLAKE.
Elizabeth reached up, barely able to touch it, and pulled the box down. She set it on the bed and removed the lid. Inside, was that trophy buckle that Becky had been holding in the photo. Elizabeth removed it and held it in her hands, reading the words engraved in the metal. 2008 Pioneer Day Rodeo Barrel Racer Champion. A tiny woman on a horse turning a barrel adorned the center of the silver buckle, and Elizabeth brushed her thumb across the figure.
She set the buckle aside and looked into the box to find a stack of envelopes, each one with Blake's name in Becky's handwriting, along with an event. Elizabeth flipped through them, reading each one, tears rolling down her cheeks.
Blake's 5th birthday, Blake's 10th birthday, Blake's 18th birthday, Blake's high school graduation, Blake's wedding day, Blake's first championship bull ride. There were several others and Elizabeth read each event, but her tears really began to flow when she read the last one.
For Elizabeth – Blake's new mom
She placed the other envelopes back into the box and stared at the one with her name on it. Her vision was blurred and she wasn't sure she had read it correctly. Wiping her eyes, she walked into the family room and took a seat on the chair with the windows behind her, and carefully opened the seal.
Dear Elizabeth,
As you have already seen, I have written a letter for a few of Blake's milestones that I will be unable to witness. They were very difficult to write, but for some reason, this one has shown to be the most difficult. I have tried to start this letter at least half a dozen times, but have just sat here, staring at a blank page for days, which I don't have many left to spare.
First, I want to tell you how thankful and grateful I am for you...and Jack. I was so scared when I came to your front door that first day, not knowing who or what I would find on the other side. The Jack I knew back then, would not have been so accepting of my deception. But that Jack is gone, and I know it is because of you and God. And I thank you for that. I know this new Jack will love and raise Blake as I would want him to be. He is an amazing man, and you are very lucky to have him as your husband and father to your children.
But I want to let you know that Jack is even luckier. You are the most amazing woman I have ever met. Your faith is one to be reckoned with, your love is fierce, and your heart is bottomless. And I am proud to call you my friend.
Elizabeth laid the papers on her lap, unable to see the words any longer. She wiped her eyes and sucked in a deep breath, trying to regain control of her emotions. After several minutes, she was finally able to return to the letter.
You are a wonderful mother, Elizabeth. Peyton and Colton are very lucky to have you, and I know that they are going to grow up to be amazing adults, just like you and Jack.
I am broken today as I write this, knowing that I will never see the man that Blake will turn out to be. I will not see the excitement in his eyes when he sits his first bull, the pride in his face when he graduates high school, the tears in his eyes when he looks into the face of his first child. I will never know the woman lucky enough to win his heart, or see him accept her as his wife.
I will also miss his first broken bone, his first heartache, his first loss in whatever rodeo event he chooses to do...as I know he will be doing something, especially with Jack as a father.
When I was first diagnosed, my mind began rampantly flipping through all that I would miss. And then I met you...and was reintroduced to Jack. And I saw the love you hold for each other. I saw the look in your eyes when you look at your children, I saw the look on Jack's face when he competed, I saw how Charlotte loves Frank and everyone around her. And you know what? I now know what kind of man Blake will turn out to be. I can now imagine the look in his eyes, the happiness in his face, the love in his heart...thanks to all of you. You gave me something that no one else could, and I thank you for that.
And now for the really hard part. Blake will need a mommy, and how I wish that would be me...it can't. I already know that you want the job, I know that you will be amazing and perfect for him, and I know that you will love him as your own. But here's what I want YOU to know...if you ever doubt yourself...don't. If you question a choice you made for him...don't. If you think you aren't the right person to be his mother...you are. If you wonder if you are doing right by him...you are.
There is no one left on this earth that could be a better mother for my Blake. You are everything that I wish I'd been. You are the light, the strength, and the heart of this home. There is nothing that I can say to you, that you don't already know and won't already do. Raise him to know God. Raise him to love life. Teach him what a real man should be like. Show him what being part of a loving family really means.
But all of these things come naturally for you and your entire family, and I am at peace knowing that Blake will be surrounded with these traits. He will be engulfed in this love. And he will lead the kind of life that I had only dreamed of. And I'm not talking about material things. I'm talking about family. I was not blessed with a perfect family. And it broke my heart that Blake would never know what it would be like to have a loving father, a giving grandmother, or an abundance of cousins. But he will now not only know it, he will be living it.
I will close with this last thing. Elizabeth, thank you. Thank you for saving Jack and helping him find the man he should have always been. Thank you for helping me: spiritually, physically, and emotionally. You have done more than you'll ever know. Thank you for being my friend. You could have turned your back on me. You could have closed that door and never said a word to Jack. But you invited me in and opened your home and your heart. I love you and you're the best friend that I've ever had.
Please keep me alive in Blake's heart. But also please be his mother in every sense of the word. I leave you the only thing of worth that I have...and that is my son. He is yours to love, to raise, to teach. I made many mistakes in my life, but Blake is not one of them. He showed me unconditional love, he led me back to Jack and to you, who led me to God. I will see you again one day, my friend. And I know this without a doubt.
Until that day comes, I love you and I'll be waiting with open arms.
Love, Becky
Elizabeth laid the pages on her lap and wiped her eyes, then heard the thundering pounds of little footsteps running across the floor. Jack and the kids had just returned from a trip into town, and she could hear them running up the steps to their rooms.
"Beth?" Jack called down from the doorway at the top of the basement stairs.
"Yes, I'm down here," Elizabeth replied, her voice hoarse.
Jack jogged down the steps and crossed the room to his wife, his smile quickly fading when he saw her face. "What's wrong?" he asked, moving to her side.
Elizabeth handed the letter to Jack and he scanned the first two lines.
"Where did you find this?"
"There was a box in her closet. I found it today and took it down. It has Blake's name on it and was filled with her trophy buckle, some photos, and a stack of letters. I had no idea she'd written these."
"Me neither. I did see her writing a lot, but I didn't want to pry and never asked her what it was."
Jack had the pages in his hand, which was resting on his leg. Elizabeth pushed his hand up slightly, encouraging him to continue.
"You should read this," she said. "I'm going to go upstairs and freshen up, then check on the kids. You can stay down here for a bit while you read that. You'll need a moment or two." Elizabeth vanished up the steps, leaving Jack with the pages. He moved from the arm of the chair down to the seat, and began reading.
…..
Jack wiped his eyes for the third time, trying to finish the letter. One paragraph left and he pushed his way through it, the inked words blurred through his tear-filled eyes. Standing up, he walked into the bedroom and found the box still sitting on the mattress. Jack folded the letter, and laid it inside, then removed the stack of envelopes, reading each label. Blake's First Rodeo Win caught Jack's eye. He stood, staring at the paper with Becky's handwriting scrawled across the front. Thoughts flooding his mind of how hard it must have been for her to write these.
His eyes teared up at the thought, thinking of his own children and how he might cope if he knew he wouldn't be around to see them grow up. His heart literally began to ache at the idea and he quickly tried to shake it from his mind. Unsuccessful, images of his daughter's wedding day, Colton's graduation, Blake's first bull ride, all began to flood his thoughts. He carefully laid the envelopes into the box and reached for the lid to secure the contents inside.
Just before the lid covered the box completely, blocking all light, something caught his eye and he lifted it and set it aside. Reaching in, he removed her buckle and read the letters that were engraved into the silver. He smiled, and looked past it into the box, seeing the small stack of photos.
He laid the buckle on the bed and removed the pictures and began thumbing through them. Becky and who Jack thought must be her parents. She looked to be around five years old in the photo. The next one was of her and a horse, then one of her and an older couple, possibly her grandparents who raised her. Jack turned the photo over and saw that the back did indeed list them as her grandparents, and the photo had been taken the morning of her graduation.
As Jack continued through them, reading the back of each one, he came across one that stopped him in his tracks. It was a picture of him. He was standing next to a large bonfire; one he was sure he and his buddies had thrown together after a rodeo. He had a can of beer in his hands and was smiling. Jack lifted the photo, looking at it closer. There was a smile on his lips, but it did not reach his eyes. Jack could see the pain and anger still residing there. An outsider might not have noticed it, but Jack could clearly see it. He turned the photo over in his hand and read what was scribbled on the back, the handwriting matching that of which was on the envelopes.
This is your dad, Jack Thornton. He's a champion bull rider and I hope you will get to meet him one day.
Jack wiped away the tear that reached his cheek and moved the photo to the back of the stack, revealing the next. It was a photo of Blake as a newborn. Jack turned and dropped onto the bed, holding the photo in front of him, staring at the image of the tiny baby. He was lying in the plastic hospital bassinet, wearing a white shirt, hospital ID bracelets around his ankles. Jack looked at it closely, looking at every inch of his son's features. Even then, the day he was born, as small as he was, he looked like Jack.
He carefully brushed his fingers along the coated paper, wishing he'd been there from the start. Another tear slipped down his cheek and landed on the photo. Jack quickly wiped it away, in fear that it would damage the precious image before him. He turned it over in his hand and read the back.
Jackson Blake
January 16, 2010
7 lbs 7 oz 21 in
He turned the photo again, looking at the newborn once more, then moved it to the back of the pile. The next photo was Blake on Doodle. He appeared to be around two years old, the smile on his face spread from ear to ear. A large red bow was tied around the pony's neck and Blake was on his back. Jack smiled at this photo, seeing the excitement in the little boy's expression.
Moving the picture to the back of the stack, Jack grinned immediately at the next one. Blake was sitting in the middle of the living room floor in their tiny apartment. On the screen of the television in front of him was a PBR rodeo. Jack could tell by the chaps and vest, that it was him on the bull. Becky must have found World's in Vegas re-airing one day and tuned in to it to let Blake watch it. She had snapped the photo just as Jack's bull was coming down and you could almost see his face behind the mask. Blake's arms were in the air, his legs crossed, and his toy bulls were on the floor next to him.
That was the final photo and Jack thumbed through them once more, pausing on the one of Blake as a newborn. He stood, laid the photos in the box, set the lid on top, and carried it upstairs to their bedroom.
Elizabeth found Jack in their closet, pushing the box onto the top shelf, Blake's name toward the back so he wouldn't ask about it before they were ready.
"Did you look through it?" she asked, stepping into the small room.
"Yes," Jack answered, turning toward his wife. His eyes were still red and he wrapped his arms around her waist.
"You've been crying," she said, reaching up and wiping away the dampness below his eyes. "The letter got to you too, huh?"
"That and the photos."
"Photos? I didn't even look at them. What were they?"
Jack reached up and pulled the box down, removed the lid, and handed the stack of pictures to his wife. Elizabeth slowly moved through the photos, pausing on each one. Once she reached the image of Jack next to the fire at the rodeo, she stopped and looked carefully at the man in the photo.
"You look so different," she commented finally.
Jack turned and stood arm to arm next to his wife, looking down at the picture. "Yeah, that was not a good time in my life."
She turned to face him, holding the photos at her side, and lifted her hand to his cheek. "That man brought you to be this man."
"Maybe, but not without a lot of help," he grinned.
"You did the work, Cowboy."
Elizabeth stretched onto her toes and kissed him. As soon as her lips met his, Jack moved his arms around her, pulling her tight against his body.
"I might have done the work, but you were the motivation," he smiled down at her. "I needed you in my life and I would have done anything."
"And I'm so glad you didn't give up."
"Never," he replied, then kissed her once more.
"Mommy! Daddy! Where are you?"
The couple peeked out of the closet to find Colton running out of the bathroom after searching for them.
"Yes, Colt?" Jack asked
"We want to go ride our ponies."
"Okay? And how do we ask?"
"Please?"
"Go find your brother and sister and tell them to get dressed in their jeans and boots. I'll be right down to take you out," Jack replied.
"Yay!" Colton yelled, then ran out of the room.
Chuckling, Jack reached for the photos, "Here, I'll put those away." Jack returned the box to the top shelf, making sure once more that Blake's name was not visible. "Well, Momma, want to go for a ride?"
"Absolutely. I need a good look at Wrangler's butt," she teased.
Jack turned, sticking his ass out, "Take a look right here, Baby. This is the only Wrangler butt that you need to be looking at."
Elizabeth smacked it, as Jack walked away, wiggling. He jumped into the air and let out a high-pitched screech, then turned and rushed toward his wife.
…...
August 1st, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch
Peyton was jumping up and down at the front window, watching Tom's truck pull up to the house. Savannah, Luke and Austin climbed out and ran to the front door, which Peyton had just opened.
"Hi!" she shouted to them.
Savannah waved, then hugged her little cousin, followed by the boys. Blake and Colton were just inside the house, waiting to greet them all, as well. The group ran into the basement where Elizabeth had set up a few different stations for the kids to play a variety of games, arts and crafts.
A few minutes later, Lee and Rosemary arrived with their girls. Noel would be spending the night for Peyton's sleepover and Savannah's birthday, and was dragging her blankie and favorite stuffed animal when she entered the house. Elizabeth walked her downstairs to join the others and instructed Savannah to keep an eye on everyone.
Returning to the kitchen, she joined Jack, Tom, Sam, Lee and Rosemary around the island. Autumn was sitting on the floor next to Rosie, playing with her toys, sticking a teething ring into her mouth.
"How's Hope doing?" Lee asked, taking a sip of the sun tea that Jack had just handed him.
"She's great," Jack answered. "A bit ornery."
"Oh, I bet," Tom said. "I know our bottle calves can get a bit pushy."
"Pushy?" Jack laughed. "That's an understatement. I can't even get in her stall before she's searching for her bottle. And not always where she should be searching," Jack said with a sideways glance.
"Oh," Lee stated, closing his legs together.
"Hmm mmm, gotta watch the jewels when you go in there," Jack added.
The loud pounding of fourteen running feet echoed along the stairwell as the kids ran up the steps and into the kitchen. Filled with laughter and heavy breathing, they all leaned on a parent or the island, trying to catch their breath.
"Can we play outside?" Savannah asked. "I'll watch them closely."
"Yes, that's fine," Jack replied, then kissed the top of his niece's head.
Squeals from the younger ones followed them out the back door and across the backyard. Jack stood and peered out the window above the sink, watching them for a few minutes, before returning to his seat beside Elizabeth.
"Thanks for doing this," Sam said to Jack and Elizabeth. "Savannah has been talking about this all week, saying this will be the best birthday party ever."
"I'm so glad she was game for combining her party with the sleepover. Peyton has been talking about this day non-stop, too," Elizabeth replied.
"I have a feeling this will be long night for the two of you," Lee grinned. "Glad it's not at my house."
"Give it time, Brother," Jack stated, eyeing his friend. "This is at your place next time."
"Does Savannah know that her friends are coming to her party tomorrow?" Elizabeth asked.
"No. She has no idea," Sam replied. "This worked out perfectly. We can decorate the house and have Charlotte's cake sitting out and ready, and she won't see any of it until you bring her home. Her friends will be there waiting."
"Sounds great," Rosemary added. "This did work out just perfectly."
The women discussed the plans for Savannah's surprise party as they men moved to the living room. Talk of Maverick, Jack's shoulder progression, and the hunt for Luke's new horse filled their conversations, among other topics.
"So, the big day is creeping up on ya," Tom said, smacking Lee's leg. "Are you prepared to be a father of three?"
"Well, I figured...if y'all can do it, then I can do it," he grinned.
"We're so good, we just make it look easy," Jack added, unable to hold back his laugh.
"You really don't know what you're having?" Tom asked.
"Nope. We wanted to wait and find out at the birth."
"But you're hoping for a boy?"
"I was at first, but man, I tell you what, those two little angels have me wrapped around their little fingers. The more I thought about it, the more I wouldn't mind having another girl."
"Wow, I thought for sure you'd want a boy," Jack added.
"I'll be fine with whatever it is. Just so long as he or she is healthy."
"I hear you there, Brother," Jack said. "Those first few weeks with the twins were agonizing. Not knowing for sure if they were both healthy or not."
"I know Rosie is ready for this baby to come out. She is so miserable right now. She keeps asking the doctor if there are two of them in there," Lee laughed. "She assured her that there was only one."
"Well, that's good. We can't have you one-upping us on the number of children you have," Jack teased.
"There are zero worries there, Jacko. Three is enough for me."
….
After supper, the adults left, leaving Jack and Elizabeth in charge of all seven children. Thanks to the kids wanting to play outside for hours, they were all exhausted and settled into their sleeping bags and blankets downstairs to watch How to Train Your Dragon 2, a new cartoon movie that had just come out that all of the kids wanted to see.
Thirty minutes into the movie, Jack went down to check on them, and Savannah and Luke were the only ones still awake. Jack said goodnight, and left them to finish the movie.
…..
August 2nd, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch
Children's laughter pulled Jack and Elizabeth out of the deep sleep they were both in. She rolled over into Jack's arms and he pulled her against him as tight as he could. Burying his face into her hair, he tried to go back to sleep, to no avail.
"We have to get up now, don't we?" he asked, his voice muffled in her tresses.
Elizabeth giggled and replied, "Yes, I'm afraid we do."
"Ughhh!" he moaned, rolling onto his back. "How do they have so much energy?"
"They slept all night," she said as she moved onto his chest, winking at him.
"Oh, yeah," he said grinning, wrapping his arms around her and covering her lips with his. "We had our own private party."
"Yes, we did," she stated, smiling. "And, Cowboy, you sure know how to party."
Jack gave her a confused look, then asked, "We are still talking about sex...right?"
"Oh, Jack. Good grief," she said, sitting up and softly slapping his arm.
Laughing, Jack rolled off the bed and walked into the bathroom, closing the door behind him.
…..
Elizabeth quickly texted Sam as they pulled into her sister-in-law's driveway, letting her know they were there. They unloaded the kids and handed Savannah, Luke and Austin their bags and pillows. When they entered the house, Elizabeth took Savannah's stuff from her arms and led the group into the living room. Four of Savannah's closest friends from school, Charlotte, Frank, Rosie and Lee had all joined Tom and Sam for the surprise party. As Savannah entered the room, they all jumped up and waved their hands in the air.
Shocked, Savannah began to cry as she hugged everyone. Her hands were making frenzied motions as she tried to sign to all of her friends at once. She jumped into Tom's arms and told him thank you, then moved to Sam.
After lunch, Charlotte carried the birthday cake to the dining room table, where Savannah blew out the twelve candles that adorned it. The top of the cake had an edible print out of Savannah and Cash turning a barrel at one of the rodeos.
"This is so cool," she signed to Charlotte. "Thank you, Grandma."
New sport boots for Cash, a saddle pad, cowboy boots, and cowboy hat were a few of the gifts her family had given her. Her friends had made matching bracelets and they all put them on their wrists together.
After cake, all the kids ran out to the backyard to play, while the adults sat on the back deck, drinking coffee and enjoying the scene.
…..
August 5th, 2014 - Crossroads Cowboy Church
"Let's do something a little different tonight," Jack said to Tom as they got up into the cab of Jack's truck.
"What's that?"
"What if we build a fire in that fire ring behind the church and sit around it tonight for Bible study? It's cool enough this evening."
"That sounds like a great idea."
The men jumped out of the truck and headed to the pile of firewood. Jack picked up a few pieces, to the weight he was allowed to carry, and Tom loaded his arms. After a couple of trips, the guys got back into the truck and headed toward the church.
"How was physical therapy today?" Tom asked.
"Not bad. Definitely much better than when I first started. I felt like they put me through the wringer by the end of each session. Now it only hurts a bit, depending on what exercises they have me doing."
"How much longer do you have to go?"
"Two more weeks, and then hopefully I'll be released to full weight and motion."
"I bet you're chomping at the bit for that."
"Oh, you have no idea, Brother."
When the guys arrived at the church, Jack explained his plans to Lee and the three began to prepare for the evening. As men started to arrive, Lee stood out front and directed each of them to the back of the church.
"I thought it would be nice to get some fresh air tonight," Jack began once everyone was seated around the fire. "Sometimes I feel a little closer to God when I can look out over His magnificent creation and breathe in the fragrance of His mastery."
The men looked around, taking in the landscaping that few had noticed up to that point. A hill dropped down behind the church, opening the view over a valley filled with trees and a long, winding river. The sun was low in the sky, casting long shadows across the ground.
"I'm going to get very personal tonight," Jack said. "As most of you know, I was not living a godly life just over five years ago. I was on a path of destruction, no cares in the world, angry at almost everyone."
Several men nodded their heads, knowing Jack's story, their own not much different. Jack paused for a moment, thinking back to this moment that was not that long ago, thanking God for the outcome.
"I drank too much, I slept around, I let my anger control me. I knew I needed to make a change, but I wasn't willing to do so. At least not until a few different events began to unfold in my life, leading me to where I am today. An injury set me back for a few months, leaving me in my home, alone, pondering my life and how it was going. I wanted to make a change, but I wasn't sure how to go about it. Then I met Elizabeth and she gave me the kick in the pants that I needed to begin looking inward…and outward, finding what changes I needed to make. I began going to a therapist and she did wonders for me, made me see what I was doing to myself and those around me. Made me see that my destructive behavior wasn't hurting only me, and that was eye opening. Then I found this place," Jack said as he waved his hand toward the church. "I came to a group that gathered here once a week and that's where I met Frank...and was eventually brought back to God. I want all of you to know, that no man is undeserving of God's grace and forgiveness. Romans 3:23 says, 'for all have sinned and fall sort of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came from Christ Jesus.' What does that mean to you?" Jack asked the group.
Tim, a newcomer, answered. "Didn't Jesus die on the cross for our sins?"
"Yes, Tim. He did. He died, taking the weight of the world's sin with Him, so that we wouldn't have to suffer. God's sacrifice of His only Son, saved us all. Through Him, we will receive God's glory and forgiveness. We need only to ask."
The men began asking questions regarding the death of Jesus and what it meant for them, how they could have salvation and forgiveness. Jack, Tom and Lee each took turns answering them the best they could, using their own lives as examples. Three men came to Jesus that evening, accepting Him into their hearts. At the end of the night, before everyone left to return to their homes, the men bowed their heads and prayed. Jack started it, but then a miracle happened. Josh, who had been to all of their Bible studies so far, asked if he could close the prayer.
Josh had lived a hard life. His father left the family when he was only four, and he'd never seen or spoken to him since. Josh rebelled and found himself hanging out with the wrong crowd. Getting into drugs, and then eventually selling them, had landed Josh in prison for five years. Once he was released, he met a man that competed in rodeos for a living. Intrigued, Josh began working with the man, helping him with his gear, and eventually climbed onto the back of bareback bronc himself. He'd quickly become one of the best bareback riders and rose to fame, which led him into the life of drugs once more.
Waking up in the hospital after an overdose six months ago was the rock bottom landing that Josh had needed. He met Lee through some rodeo friends, who then introduced him to Jack. Josh had been the first person Jack had called when they decided to start the Bible study group, and Josh hadn't missed a single one.
Once Josh was finished with the prayer, everyone opened their eyes to find Jack's filled with tears.
"What is it, Jack?" Tim asked.
Jack leaned toward Josh and quietly asked, "Can you share your story?"
Josh nodded and began. There was hardly a dry eye in the group with the man finished. Each of these tough, hardened cowboys, who would normally hide any type of emotion they would consider weak, were wiping their eyes. Two more men accepted Christ Jesus as their Savior after hearing Josh's story that evening, giving Josh the feeling of purpose he'd been searching for his whole life.
…..
Jack arrived home later than usual that night, and Elizabeth was sitting on the couch with a book, waiting to hear about his evening.
Jack leaned over the back and kissed her, "Hi, Babe."
"Hi. How did tonight go?"
Jack walked around the couch and took a seat next to his wife and told her about the whole meeting, leaving nothing out.
…..
August 9th, 2014 – Kansas City Sprint Center
Blake was beside himself with excitement as the family made their way through the crowd at the busy stadium. Peyton, Colton and Noel were being carried by their parents so as not to get lost in all the people. Blake tightly held Jack's hand, not leaving his side. Sam held Austin's hand, while Luke and Savannah followed closely behind her, with Tom behind them. With the trucks being too loud, Autumn remained at home with Frank and Charlotte for the evening.
After fifteen minutes spent at the merchandise booth, buying T-shirts, a mask, and three die-cast toy cars, the family spent another twenty minutes in line to get snacks and drinks. Two more stops at the restrooms as they made their way around to the steps that would lead down to their section, the adults finally got everyone seated and prepared for the show to start.
The kids bounced around in their seats, anxious for things to get started, when the lights dimmed slightly and the announcer began to speak. Squeals filled the stadium as hundreds of children made their excitement known.
As each truck and driver was introduced, the vehicle would enter the dirt covered floor of the stadium, their motors revving loudly. The adults each wore foam earplugs, while the children had headset type earmuffs on to protect them from the echoing noise.
Everyone watched Blake as the first truck entered. The little boy's eyes were huge, larger than they'd ever seen them. His hands were clinched and a smile was plastered on his face. Peyton, Colton and Noel reacted much the same, each pointing out their favorite truck. Peyton and Noel both loved the Scooby Doo truck which was driven by a woman. Colton's favorite was Gravedigger, as was Luke and Austin's.
Blake waited patiently for his favorite to make an appearance, and when the truck with flames and horns entered the arena, the little boy jumped to his feet and danced around.
"There he is! There's El Toro Loco!" Blake pointed and shouted for everyone to hear him.
Four events filled their evening; beginning with the trucks racing two at a time, followed by a donut competition. The third had each truck, one at a time, maneuver their trucks either onto the front two wheels or the back two, then proceed to drive up and across the large dirt pile formed into a raised platform.
Everyone, including the adults, enjoyed the show immensely. Motocross racers entertained the crowd during intermission as some people left to get more snacks. Ramps were hauled out into the area for them to perform their tricks.
When the final event began, Blake moved to the edge of his seat to get a better view.
"Freestyle is the best part!" he shouted.
Scooby Doo was the third truck to go, and the kids laughed and screamed as she jumped the dirt ramp, catching enough air that another Monster Truck could drive underneath her. Peyton and Noel clapped during her entire run, and when it was finished, Nicole, the driver, climbed through the window and waved to the crowd. The young girls waved back, positive that Nicole had seen them.
Gravedigger entered the arena, the crowd favorite and most popular Monster Truck, and began his freestyle run with a massive jump that made Nicole's look like child's play.
Jack, Tom and Lee were discussing the suspension of the truck, wondering how on earth it hadn't snapped in half when it landed.
Gravedigger received the loudest applause so far from the crowd as he performed many of his well-known tricks, almost rolling the truck on multiple occasions.
El Toro Loco was the last for his freestyle, and immediately hit the ramp at top speed, sending the truck flying into the air. After a few more jumps, he landed sideways, rolled over the hood, stopping upright on his tires. The flimsy fiberglass of the hood was torn to pieces and as the truck immediately continued, sections flapped around as he made jump after jump.
Blake, along with the rest of the crowd in the stadium, was going crazy. Elizabeth, Rosemary and Sam were enjoying the excitement of their children and husbands more than the show as they watched their families' reactions.
El Toro Loco continued on, hitting the next ramp slightly off center, sending the truck into a somersault, landing on his wheels once again. A section of the side of the truck flew off, along with a few other pieces, as the truck floored it, hitting the ramp once more.
The driver parked the truck in the middle of the arena and stood up, his body emerging through the area that once held the plastic windshield. He pumped his arms up and down, encouraging the already loud crowd, to be even louder. Screams filled the stadium as El Toro Loco's team could be seen in the background celebrating the run and the win.
…..
"Did you see that?" Blake asked at the top of his lungs as they crossed the parking lot toward their trucks. "El Toro Loco flipped his truck, then he jumped again, then he flipped again. That was so cool! Did you see that, Austin?"
"Yeah, that was awesome!" The little boy added. "Can we go again?" Austin asked his dad.
"Sure. Whenever they return to town, we'll make sure we get tickets."
"Yay!" the six kids shouted.
"Did you like it?" Sam asked Savannah.
"Yes, that was so much fun," she replied. "But I wanted Scooby Doo to win," she grinned.
"Me, too," Sam replied.
"How are you feeling, Rosie?" Elizabeth asked her friend.
"Fat. Tired. Fat. Hungry. Fat. I have to pee again. Oh, did I say, fat?"
"You are not fat," Lee stated, wrapping his arm around her shoulder. "You are beautiful," he added, then kissed her as they walked.
"Get a room!" Jack shouted, mimicking his friend. He slipped his hand into Elizabeth's, closing his fingers through hers. Peyton was holding his other hand, while Colton was holding Elizabeth's.
The whole group couldn't help but laugh at Jack's comment, the non-stop talking from the kids, and the waddling of Rosemary, as they walked to their trucks to go home.
…..
August 13th, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch
Elizabeth sent the kids to their rooms to pick up their toys, then picked up her cup of coffee and stepped out onto the front porch. She closed her eyes and breathed in a deep breath through her nose. Her roses that lined the front of the porch were in full bloom and the fragrance filled her nose with a strong floral scent.
She walked to the corner, looking out over the horse pasture. One of the mares had knocked a gate loose and Jack was out working on the repair. She could see him with his wrench, tightening a nut onto the bolt. He'd let Hope out, and she was running around beside him; kicking her back legs out, enjoying the fresh air and sunshine.
The filly cautiously approached Jack, who had moved on to the next bolt, and stretched her neck out to smell his cowboy hat. She nibbled on the brim, then quickly grabbed it between her teeth and pulled it off Jack's head. He fell back in an attempt to retrieve it, while Hope bobbed her head up and down, shaking his hat around. When he stood to grab it, the filly took off running, keeping a tight hold on Jack's hat.
Elizabeth was laughing now, enjoying the antics of their new ranch baby. Jack finally reclaimed his hat, and wiped her slobber off with his shirt. Looking up as he returned it to his head, he caught Elizabeth watching him and could see that she was laughing. He grinned, pinched the brim of his hat between his fingers, and tipped his head to his wife. Elizabeth curtsied and as Jack was just beginning to bow, Hope, who wasn't paying attention to where she was running, plowed into Jack, knocking him over.
He lay in the grass on his back, laughing, as the startled filly stood over him, her nose just inches from his. Jack reached up and petted her, and just when he was about to get back on his feet, the filly laid down beside him, laying her head across his chest.
The pair remained that way for several minutes as Jack petted the foal's neck. Then, needing to get back to work, Jack carefully moved out from beneath Hope, leaving her to sleep a little longer.
…..
August 16th, 2014 – Coulter Ranch
Autumn was sitting in her high chair when Rosie placed a small, pink cake in front of her daughter. Without hesitation, Autumn shoved both hands into the dessert, then proceeded to shovel it into her mouth. Pink frosting covered her lips, cheeks, hands, hair and dress by the time she'd finished. Everyone had sung happy birthday as she demolished the cake, then Charlotte cut the sheet cake she'd made, and served it to the group.
"I can't believe she's one already," Charlotte said, wiping the frosting from the toddler's hands.
"I know, it went by so fast," Rosemary replied. "And I can't believe I'm about to pop out another one already."
Charlotte tossed the dirty rag into the sink and pulled Autumn from her seat, resting the little girl on her hip. "Rosie, these kids are going to be so close growing up. They'll be best friends. You won't even notice how close they are in age once the baby is here and in your arms."
"I suppose so," Rosie said, slowly lowering herself into the chair. "I hope he or she is in my arms soon, though."
"Now, not too soon. Baby needs time to cook in there," Charlotte said, smiling and patting Rosie's belly.
After a couple of games for the kids, assistance with gift opening, and another hour of conversations, everyone said their goodbyes and left for their homes.
"Goodbye, Rosie," Elizabeth said, hugging and kissing her friend. "I'll see you tomorrow at church."
"Okay, if I can waddle myself in there, I guess."
Elizabeth just laughed, hugged her friend once more, then joined Jack outside by their truck.
"Rosie sure is getting big," Jack said after he shut the back door.
"Yes, she is. The doctor assured them there was only one baby. But that must be a really big baby," she said, grinning. "Either that, or Rosie has been sneaking cupcakes into the house and hiding them again."
"Again?" Jack asked, opening his door and letting Elizabeth slide into the center of the seat.
"Yes, she did that at the end of her pregnancy with Autumn."
He laughed as he pulled himself into the truck. "Well, that would explain things if she's doing that again."
…..
August 20th, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch
Jack stepped into the house after working with a young gelding, and heard his kids crying. Looking around, he saw a pile of damp towels tossed at the bottom of the steps.
"Beth?" he called out loudly, but received no answer.
Jack ran up the stairs, two at a time, and found Elizabeth in the bedroom, Colton on her lap, rocking him back and forth. They were on his bed with a large bowl next to them. Blake was curled into a ball on the top bunk, and Peyton was laying on her favorite pink blanket on the floor, her thumb in her mouth.
"What's going on?" Jack asked, walking to the bed and checking on Blake. "He's so pale, so is Colton."
"They're all sick," she answered, exhausted.
"All three?"
"Yes."
Just then, Colton quickly sat up and leaned over the bowl, losing what little contents of his stomach that he had left.
"Mommy," Peyton cried out.
"Jack, grab that!" Elizabeth almost shouted, pointing at a trashcan next to their daughter.
Jack ran and grabbed the can, holding it in front of Peyton just in time. She was sitting up now, gripping onto the edge of the plastic, her little head hanging over the edge. Sweat beads covered her pale face and her hair was sticking to it. Jack pulled the hair tie from what was left of her ponytail, pulled the sides of her hair back out of her face, and wrapped the tie around it, securing her curls out of the way.
"Daddy, I don't feel good," Peyton cried, her tears mixing with the sweat now.
Jack pulled her onto his lap and began rocking her back and forth.
"Mommy, I don't feel so go...," Blake was leaning over the edge of the bed when he threw up.
Elizabeth closed her eyes and leaned her head against the wall, shaking it slightly. She opened her eyes and began to move Colton off of her lap when she saw Jack already on his feet, reaching for the stack of towels and can of carpet cleaner.
"Blake, come down here please," Elizabeth said, reaching for another trashcan.
The little boy slowly made his way down the ladder, then climbed onto Colton's bed next to Elizabeth. She set the trashcan next to him, just in case.
Jack cleaned up the mess while Elizabeth held both boys. Peyton was curled up on the floor again, her blanket pulled up around her face. When Jack finished, he checked on everyone, finding Elizabeth asleep, along with the boys. He felt each of their foreheads, all of them warm, including hers.
He stood back, his hands on his hips, looking over his family, wondering what to do. He scooped up Peyton and carried her to her room, putting her to bed, setting the trashcan up against it. Returning to the boys' room, he gently tapped Elizabeth's leg until she woke up. Holding out his hand, she laid hers in his and let him help her up as she carefully slid out from under the boys.
He led her to their bedroom, pulled back the covers, and assisted her into their bed. Pulling the blanket over her, he knelt beside the bed.
"Do you need anything?"
Swallowing hard, she said, "A trashcan."
Jack could tell by the look in her eyes that he needed to hurry. Seconds later, he was handing her the can as she quickly sat up and emptied all the contents of her stomach. Jack moved onto the bed behind her and pulled her hair back. Holding it with one hand, he rubbed her arm with the other.
Once her stomach settled, she fell back into the pillows and Jack took the trashcan to empty and clean it. When he returned, she was fast asleep. He left the trashcan next to the bed, then went to check on the kids.
….
Charlotte knocked twice then opened the door and walked inside.
"Hey, Ma," Jack said as he walked through the kitchen toward the laundry room, his hands full of dirty towels.
"How's everyone doing?"
"Sleeping at the moment...finally."
"Beth is sick, too?"
"Yes. She's been throwing up just as much as the kids." Jack lifted the lid of the washer and tossed the towels in, along with a soap pod. Once the washer was started, Jack joined his mother in the kitchen. "I don't know if it's something they ate, or a stomach bug, or what it is."
"Are you feeling alright?"
"Yes, I feel fine."
"Did they eat something that you didn't?"
"I don't know. I've been outside working with horses all day." Jack sat down on one of the stools and rested his head in his hands.
"Are you sure you're feeling alright?" Charlotte asked, feeling his forehead with the back of her hand.
"I'm just tired," he replied. "I need to go check on everyone." Jack stood and started for the stairs, followed by his mother.
"I'll help you."
"Ma, it's a mess. I've been trying to clean it all up, but...it's everywhere."
Charlotte grabbed Jack's arm and turned him to face her. "Jack, I'm here to help you. Let me help. Do you think that I never had to clean up after you and Tom before?"
"Okay," Jack said, letting out a breath of relief.
He stepped into Peyton's room and walked to her bed. She was sound asleep, her bottom lip quivering slightly. Jack felt her head and she was still warm. He replaced her trashcan with a clean one, and left to check on the boys.
Charlotte was already in the room, on her knees, scrubbing the carpet along Colton's bed. Both boys were still curled up on the bottom bunk, a clean bowl next to each one. Jack felt their foreheads, Colton's warm, Blake's normal.
"I'm going to check on Beth then I'll be back to help you, Ma."
"Okay, Son. Don't hurry. Take care of your family." She watched her son leave the room, pride of the man he'd turned out to be, showing on her face.
Jack slowly sat on the edge of the bed, trying not to wake her. He felt Elizabeth's forehead, finding it warmer than it was thirty minutes earlier. He walked to the bathroom, ran a washcloth under cold water, wrung it out, and returned to his wife. With the cloth folded, he carefully placed it on her forehead, causing her to stir slightly.
Touching her cheek, Jack could feel the heat of her fever emanating from her skin. She opened her eyes and gave Jack a small grin.
"Hey, Cowboy," she said quietly.
"Hey, Beautiful."
"How are the kids?"
"They're all sleeping. Ma is in with the boys."
"Your mom is here?"
"Yes. She stopped by to check on everyone and help me out," Jack grinned. "I guess she didn't think I could manage on my own."
"She doesn't know you very well," Elizabeth teased.
Jack watched her expression change and her skin go pale. He reached for the trashcan just as she leaned over for it, throwing up once more. She was hanging off the edge of the bed, hugging the can with one arm, as Jack rubbed her back.
"Baby, what can I do to help you?" Jack felt helpless and ached for his wife.
Elizabeth just shook her head, afraid to speak for fear of throwing up again. Once she was sure she was finished, Elizabeth laid back into her pillow, letting Jack take the trashcan. He washed it out, and returned it to the floor beside the bed. Picking up the washcloth, he returned it to her forehead, then took her hand in his.
"Do you want some water?"
Elizabeth's eyes remained closed as she shook her head.
"I'm going to check on Ma and the kids, I'll be right back."
She just nodded.
…..
The rest of the day and evening was much the same. Peyton and Colton got sick a few more times before their fevers finally broke. Blake was better and slept most of the night, waking occasionally with only a tummy ache.
Charlotte had gotten everything cleaned up and fixed something for Jack to eat, then headed home shortly after midnight to get some rest.
Jack checked on each child, feeling their cool foreheads, making sure each had a bowl or trashcan nearby. Then he went to Elizabeth. She was asleep, but was restless and moaning slightly. Jack felt her forehead and she was still very warm. He climbed onto the bed next to her and laid down, keeping a hand on her arm, gently stroking her skin with his thumb.
…..
Jack woke, not realizing he'd even fallen asleep, and rolled to look at the clock. 4:58 am. He felt Elizabeth's forehead and found her fever gone. He slowly rolled off the bed and checked the trashcan. She'd thrown up again through the night, and Jack took it to clean it out. He returned with a fresh can and a glass of water.
"Jack?" Elizabeth asked, rolling onto her side.
"Yes, Baby. I'm right here." Jack sat on the edge of the mattress and pushed her hair out of her face.
"Hi."
"Hi."
"How are the kids?"
"Better. They're all sleeping. As you should be, too." Jack tucked her hair behind her ear. "How are you feeling?"
"Better. I think. That might change if I move."
Jack pulled the blanket up to her shoulders, "You just need to rest."
"Okay," she replied, closing her eyes.
Jack waited by her side until he heard her breathing change, signaling that she was asleep. He watched Elizabeth for a few more minutes, before leaving to check on the kids.
Peyton was sleeping, her stuffed unicorn wedged beneath her head. Colton and Blake had both fallen asleep in Colt's bed; Blake curled up on one end, Colton on the other. Colton had pulled all the covers to his end, so Jack reached up and removed the blanket from the top bunk and draped it over Blake.
When Jack stepped out of the bedroom, Wyatt was sitting outside the door, quietly whining.
"It's alright boy," Jack said, petting the dog's head. "Everyone is asleep."
Wyatt let out another small whine.
"Do you need to go outside?"
The dog spun around in a circle then ran down the steps and waited for Jack at the front door.
Jack stepped onto the front porch, watching Wyatt run out into the grass. He sucked in a deep breath of night air, enjoying the sweet fragrance of spruce and fresh cut grass. Jack walked around the corner of the porch and sat down in one of the chairs. Looking over the moonlit pasture, he watched the silhouetted figures of the mares and foals eating their way across the grass.
Wyatt returned to Jack's side, pushing his head under Jack's hand.
"Hey, buddy," Jack said, scratching the dog's ears. "Beautiful out here, isn't it?"
The pair sat side-by-side as they watched the horses, until Jack decided to get back into the house to check on everyone once more.
…..
August 23rd, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch
The kids were much better the following day, though all tired, sleeping most of the afternoon. Elizabeth hadn't recovered quite so quickly and continued to be sick over the next three days. Jack took care of her and the kids while Lee did all of the chores. They left the horse training for the following week to give everyone a break after all the extra work they'd had to pick up.
The previous day, the air conditioner had stopped working on the hottest day of the week, and Jack immediately made a call and had a service appointment set up for that afternoon. The house had heated up quickly and Jack opened all the windows in an attempt to get some air moving through to cool it off.
The heat had not helped Elizabeth with her illness and she spent most of her day on the bathroom floor where it was cooler and close to the toilet. Jack repeatedly tried to get her to drink more water, but she would throw it up as soon as it hit her stomach.
Rosie stayed away due to her pregnancy, but Sam and Charlotte had made several trips out to the house to check on Beth and try to help Jack with anything he may need.
Later that morning, Jack went to the bedroom to check on Elizabeth and to let her know that Frank was on his way over with a window unit air conditioner. When he entered, she was standing, her hand on the closet door frame, holding herself up.
"I'm really dizzy, Jack."
Jack rushed to her side, taking her arm, and supported her as he walked her to the bed to help her sit, and sat down beside her.
"Are you going to be sick again? Do you need the trashcan?"
"No, I don't think so," she answered, brushing her hand along her forehead. "But I just don't feel right."
"Alright, that's it. I'm taking you to the doctor." Jack stood and pulled his phone from his pocket, "I'm calling Ma to come over and get the kids."
"Jack, no," she said, standing too quickly, "You don't nee..."
Elizabeth began to fall, the lightheadedness overwhelming her, but Jack dropped his phone and caught her.
"No arguments, Beth."
She nodded in agreement as he lowered her back onto the bed. "Okay."
…..
They waited in a room in urgent care. It was stark white and cold, but it felt good to Elizabeth, who'd been overheated by the lack of air conditioning in their home. Viles of blood had been drawn, vitals and temperature taken, a few dozen questions asked and answered. She was lying in a bed, an IV of fluids in her arm, as Jack paced beside her. She was already beginning to feel better after the antinausea medicine and fluids.
Their nurse entered the room. She was young, but had given them no worries as to her ability to perform her job. She carried a tablet in her hand, scrolling through the test results that had just come in.
"Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Thornton. I'm Tiana, your nurse from earlier, but I didn't get a chance to introduce myself," she stated, smiling at the couple. "Well, we've determined the cause of your illness."
"Yes?" Jack asked anxiously.
"Besides the fact that you were extremely dehydrated and you seem to be getting over having had the flu, you're also pregnant. Congratulations!"
Jack and Elizabeth froze. Their lungs burned as if the air had been sucked out of them, and their hearts ached from pounding in their chests. They stared at Tiana, both shaking their heads in disbelief.
Jack fell into the chair, his face white as a ghost.
"No."
