Time to find out about the test results at the hospital...was it a mistake? Is she really pregnant? If she is, what will Jack think? And Yes...this chapter does come with a steam alert. Sorry, I just can't help myself with these two. Keep up the reviews...loving them!

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August 23rd, 2014 – University Hospital

"No, that can't be," Elizabeth stated, her stomach beginning to churn again.

"It can...and you are," she smiled.

"She can't be," Jack added sternly. He stood up and began feeling as if he'd be sick now.

She looked at the chart again, then back to the couple. "She is." Assuming the young couple would have been happy to hear the news, she was confused with their response. "I'm sorry, is this not good news?"

"No, no, no," Jack said, crossing the room, raking his hands through his hair. Returning to the bed, he pressed his palms hard against the mattress. "She can't be. She had a tubal ligation almost four years ago."

The nurse scrolled through Elizabeth's chart, then looked back at the couple. "I'm going to get the doctor to come talk to you."

After Tiana walked out of the room, Jack sunk into the chair next to the bed, his head in his hands. Feeling someone touching him, he glanced up to find Elizabeth with her hand on his shoulder.

"Everything will be fine," she said. The tone in her voice did not pair with the words that were spoken.

Jack stood and leaned his elbow on the pillow next to her arm. Brushing her cheek with his hand, he stared into her eyes. "I'm sure it was just a mistake," he said, forcing a smile.

The doctor joined them now, followed by the nurse. "Hello, I'm Dr. Simpson. I see that we may have an unexpected pregnancy here."

"No, it has to be a mistake," Jack stated, straightening to face the doctor.

The doctor lowered the tablet and looked at the couple. "There's no mistake, your wife is definitely pregnant."

"But she had a tubal ligation due to complications with the last pregnancy."

Dr. Simpson pulled a stool over and took a seat near the foot of the bed. "With tubal ligations, the fallopian tubes can actually grow back together. The chances of that are slightly higher in younger women. So, I'm not totally surprised that this happened."

Jack fell back into his chair, keeping his hand on Elizabeth's.

"Tell me about what happened with the last pregnancy."

"I had a placental abruption and almost lost the twins and my own life. They told me that if I got pregnant, my chances of that happening again were very high, and the outcome could be worse. So, we made the decision not to have any more children."

"I see." The doctor hesitated briefly before continuing. "Well, there are options for you."

"Options? What do you mean options? You mean end the pregnancy?" Jack asked, a horrified expression covering his face.

"No!" Elizabeth said loudly. "That is not an option."

Jack stood, squeezing her hand. "She's right, doctor. That is not an option for us."

"Okay. Well, then, you will need to get in to see your OB/GYN right away," she said in a calm, sweet voice. "You'll need to be closely monitored, such as monthly check-ups, if not more. You might even need to be put on bedrest at some point during your pregnancy. Each OB/GYN is different but that's what I would recommend."

The couple nodded.

Dr. Simpson stood, laying her hand on Elizabeth's leg. "Many women have had a successful pregnancy after going through what you went through. I'm not going to say that the risks aren't there. But if you keep up with your checkups and do what they say, this pregnancy can go just fine."

They remained silent as the doctor and nurse left the room. Both of them felt nauseous, both hearts were pounding and aching. They were flooded with mixed emotions: fear for Elizabeth and the baby, yet at the same time, deep down, they were the tiniest bit excited and hopeful at the possibility that they might have another child.

Elizabeth's gaze moved to Jack. He was sitting beside the bed, his elbows on the mattress, his head in his hands, his fingers deep in his hair. She could see his head shaking slightly, his mind was reeling from the news. He didn't know whether to be happy or angry or scared. At the moment, he was all three.

He moved his hand back to hers without looking, and squeezed tightly. Finally, lifting his eyes to hers, Elizabeth could see a tear fall down his cheek.

"What did I do?" Jack asked, his voice riddled with fear.

Elizabeth leaned forward and pulled her hand from his. She cupped his face and looked directly into his eyes. "Jack, this is not your fault. It's nobody's fault. It's just something that happened."

Jack laid his hands on hers, still holding his face. "But what if I...if we...what if I did something to cause this...to...to happen?"

"Jack, we were both there. Two consenting adults. What were we supposed to do? Not have sex? I don't think so. We didn't know this would happen."

"But, if I had...if only I had..."

"Jack," Elizabeth moved her hands, taking his and holding them tight, "there is nothing we could have done differently."

Jack knew better. He knew there was something else they could have done differently. And it was tearing him up inside.

…..

Tom was passing by Jack's barn, the windows in his truck down, when he heard something and looked through the doorway to find Jack crossing the aisle. He pulled up to the building, parked his truck, and got out.

As he was walking in, there was a loud crash coming from the feed room. Tom hurriedly crossed the barn and saw Jack grab a large bin of feed and pull it over, slamming it hard on the concrete. The bin was full, too heavy for anyone to be able to pull it over, but Jack did with ease, his anger was feeding his adrenaline. The contents spilled across the floor, corn and oats scattering everywhere.

"Jack, what's going on? What happened with Beth?"

Jack turned to face his brother; his cheeks were streaked with tears. Tom rushed to him and laid his hands on his shoulders, "What happened?"

Jack grabbed Tom hard and pulled him in, his arms so tight that he was almost smothering him in a hug, his hands gripping the back of his brother's shirt. Tom returned the embrace, thinking the worst.

When Jack finally released him, he stepped back and wiped his face, then kicked at the feed that spilled on the floor, spreading it out even more. He clenched his hands onto the edge of another large grain barrel, gripping so hard that the blood rushed from his hands. Every muscle and vein in his arms were popping and he pushed the barrel hard against the wall. Turning to Tom, he sucked in a deep breath.

"Beth is pregnant."

"Oh," Tom said, having not expected that answer. "But...how?"

Jack paced back and forth across the spilled grain. "Evidently when a woman gets her tubes tied, they can actually grow back and she can get pregnant. The younger they are, the higher the chance." He was throwing his arms in the air, his voice filled with a mixture of sarcasm and fear. "I should have insisted."

"Insisted on what?"

"That I get a vasectomy instead of her getting the procedure. At least then this wouldn't have happened." Jack kicked the metal feed barrel that was laying on the floor, stress was set in his jaw.

"Why didn't you?"

Jack turned to his brother. "Because Beth insisted that it be her. Because she was the one that was having the issues. That one day, if anything should happen to her, then I would still be able to have more children with someone else. I should have fought harder, but she wouldn't let it go. I never wanted children with anyone but her. I should have put my foot down."

"Jack, you would have never been able to change her mind on that, and you know it."

"I should have just gone and had it done anyway."

"Now, Jack. How do you think that would have gone over with Elizabeth?"

"Well, at least we wouldn't be in this mess right now."

"Mess? Jack, it's a baby."

"You know what I mean," Jack paced. "We both wanted more children. It broke Elizabeth's heart when she found out she shouldn't have more. I should have made her wait, think things through. Then maybe she would have seen it my way."

"Jack, I don't know of Beth being the type of person that would do anything of this magnitude without thinking it through."

Jack let out a long sigh, "You're right. I know."

"What will you do now? Will she be okay?"

Jack lowered himself onto a bale of hay, his head in his hand. "We just don't know. We have to go see her regular doctor Monday."

Tom dragged a bale around and sat down in front of Jack, knee to knee, and he laid his hands on his brother's legs.

Jack eventually raised his eyes and looked at Tom. "I can't go through this again," he said, shaking his head, tears spilling over, "I just can't. I can't lose her."

"I know, Jack." Tom placed his hand behind his brother's neck, pulling Jack toward him until their foreheads touched. He could feel Jack's body shaking from his emotions, and they remained this way for several minutes while Tom tried to comfort his brother.

"What are we going to do?" Jack asked under his breath.

"You need to talk to Beth about this."

"I tried. I can't even get through a sentence while looking at her, I just break down."

Tom straightened, as did Jack, and he looked deep into his brother's eyes. "What choice do you have?"

"What do you mean?"

"I know you and Beth; abortion is not an option."

"Absolutely not."

"Okay, then, what choice do you have?"

Jack sat quietly, thinking, staring at his brother. "Pray."

"Okay, then...let's pray." Tom bowed his head and took Jack's hands in his.

…..

Elizabeth was sitting on a stool, her elbows on the island, her head in her hands, and began to cry once more. She felt a set of hands run down her arms and she jumped and spun around to find Jack looking at her. His eyes were red and swollen, his cheeks stained with tears, anguish on his face that matched Elizabeth's.

She moved into his arms and the couple stood in the kitchen, crying and praying quietly in each other's ears. They heard the front door open slowly and without releasing each other, they looked to find Charlotte and Frank easing into the house.

Seeing her son and daughter, Charlotte held out her arms and moved toward them. "Oh, my babies," she said, wrapping them both in her loving embrace.

Thinking the floodgates were already opened, Jack and Elizabeth cried even harder as Charlotte held them. They were both feeling lost, scared, and confused and the embrace of a mother brought everything to the surface.

"Let's go sit down," Charlotte finally said, taking Jack's hand and Elizabeth's hand in hers, leading them to the couch. Frank followed, taking a seat next to his wife.

"Where are the kids?" Elizabeth asked, wiping her eyes.

"We dropped them off with Sam."

Elizabeth nodded, and the tears began again.

"We don't know what to do, Ma," Jack said, feeling like a teenager, asking his mother for help.

"You're going to go to your doctor and see what he has to say before you do anything. Everything might be just fine. Let's not worry about things until we have to."

"Ma, you know what they said when the twins were born."

"Yes, I do know. And I also know that they said it was a chance, not a definite."

Elizabeth pulled her legs up to her chest, hugging them, while Jack held his head in his hands, his arms resting on his thighs.

"What's this about you making a mess in your barn again?" Charlotte asked.

Jack's gaze shot up to his mother, his eyes glaring, "Ma!"

"What? Elizabeth doesn't have the right to know what you did?"

"Jesus!" Jack shouted, laying his head in his hands again.

"Jack, what did you do?" Elizabeth asked.

Leaning back into the cushion, Jack looked at Elizabeth. "I knocked over a couple bins of feed on accident."

"Jack Ashton Thornton! There will be no lying to your wife!" Charlotte scolded her son.

"Mom, mind your business."

"Jack!" Frank finally spoke up. "You will not speak to your mother in that manner."

"It's my fault this happened. I have the right to be a little angry and to do whatever I want in my own barn."

"How is this your fault?" Elizabeth asked, her tone soft.

Jack turned in his seat to face his wife. "I should have insisted that I get a vasectomy instead of you getting your tubes tied. I should have made you listen to me. I should have just gone and done it and then you wouldn't be able to say any more about it."

"Really, Jack?" Elizabeth asked, her voice hanging on the edge of anger now. "Make a life altering decision behind my back? You think that would have been okay?"

"It would have been better than this," Jack stated in a soft, low, flat voice. Tears welled up in his eyes again as he looked at his wife.

Elizabeth wrapped her arms around his neck, and Jack moved his arms around her. They held each other as they allowed the next flood of tears to flow.

"I'm so sorry, Beth," Jack whispered in her ear. "I'm sorry about everything."

Elizabeth straightened and looked into Jack's eyes. "There is nothing to be sorry about." She reached up and wiped his tears away with her thumbs. "We're in this together. We will get through it together."

Jack nodded, trying to draw from his wife's strength. He sucked in a deep breath and turned to sit straight on the couch. "So, now what do we do?"

Frank laid his hand on Charlotte's knee, who was about to speak, getting her attention. "May I?"

"Of course," she replied softly.

Frank moved to the ottoman in front of the couple and rested his arms on the tops of his legs. He held out his hands for theirs, and when they laid their hands in his, Frank bowed his head and began to pray.

"Dear Heavenly Father, I ask that You give Jack and Elizabeth the strength and peace needed to navigate through this scary time. I pray that the doctors will have the knowledge and skills needed to guide them through this pregnancy. Lay Your almighty healing hands on Elizabeth and this baby, keeping them both safe and healthy. Please ease the fear, confusion, and guilt over this. I pray that Jack and Elizabeth will know that You've got this, that You've got them and the baby in Your care, that You will guide them to and through this. You are the Almighty, the Caregiver, the Supplier, and Healer, and I thank You for that, Lord. Please bless this entire family with the wonderment, the excitement, and the love of this new little life. This is truly a blessing, provided only by You, Lord. I pray that this young couple can come to terms with that and know that You will protect them. Thank You, our faithful Father, for the miracle that is growing inside Elizabeth. Thank You for bringing all of us here, to this day, to this time. Thank You for all You do for us. In the Lord's name I pray, Amen."

Frank squeezed their hands before releasing them.

"God would never give you more than you can handle. Trust Him. Pray to Him. Let Him do His work."

Jack and Elizabeth both nodded, their eyes locked on Frank's.

"I truly believe that this will have a good outcome. Ever since we received the news, I've been praying. And repeatedly, I've heard the words - 'I've got this.' God's got this, kids. Trust in Him."

Frank moved to the edge of the ottoman and leaned toward Jack and Elizabeth, wrapping his arms around them both. The couple returned the embrace, the three of them in a group hug, two of them in tears. Charlotte moved to Frank's side and joined in, encircling them with her arms.

When they broke apart, everyone could see that Charlotte was now crying, the fear evident in her eyes. She believed the words of her husband, but that doesn't stop a mother from worrying.

"I just don't understand how this could have happened," Jack said. "Why didn't they tell us?"

"I'm sure it's very rare, Jack," Charlotte replied.

"The doctor talked like it was common. She said she wasn't surprised that it happened."

Elizabeth laid her hand on Jack's leg, hoping it would calm him. And as usual, it did.

"God's got this," Jack said, repeating Frank's words, staring at Elizabeth's hand on his leg.

"Be still, and know that I am God," Elizabeth added.

…..

Jack and Elizabeth were anxiously waiting at the door when Sam arrived with their kids. The three excited children ran up the front steps, jumping into the arms of their parents.

"Did you guys have fun?" Jack asked, kneeling in front of them.

"Yes!" Blake shouted. "Luke was showing me how to rope a steer and I did it!"

"That's awesome," Jack exclaimed. Blake's excitement was contagious and Jack and Elizabeth were both ecstatic for his new achievement.

"I rode Austin's pony," Peyton said, her eyes wide and shining. "He rode a big horse so I could ride Beetle. Beetle was fun."

"What did you do, Colt?" Jack asked his youngest son.

"I rode Uncle Tom's horse, Remi. I was so far up; it was a little scary."

Jack and Elizabeth laughed at their son's exaggerated expression, acting as if he was on a tall building looking down.

"That all sounds like so much fun," Elizabeth stated, hugging each child once more. "Now, you guys go upstairs and get cleaned up for dinner while we talk to Aunt Sam."

"Okay!" they all shouted as they ran through the house.

"Did they behave?" Jack asked, stepping back to allow Sam to enter.

"Oh, yes. They were perfect angels. Just give them a horse and let 'em go," she grinned. She turned to Elizabeth and held her arms out. Elizabeth moved into them, the tears flowing once more. "How are you doing, Beth?"

"Been better," she replied, taking a step back.

"How could this happen?" Jack asked.

"It just does, sometimes," Sam answered. "There's no explanation for it. We never know who it could happen to."

"So, you knew this was a possibility?" Jack questioned.

"Jack, to be honest with you, it never crossed my mind. Though it does happen, the chances are low. I never dreamed of it happening to Elizabeth."

"So, now what? How do we know if she'll be okay?"

"Guys, I'm sorry I don't have better answers for you, but there's just no way to know. We don't even know what caused the problem the first time, so there's no way to know if it will happen again. She could be just fine. This pregnancy could go perfectly."

"But it also couldn't," Jack added.

An eerie hush fell over the room as they stood, each staring at the floor. Sam was finally the one to break the silence that was haunting them all.

"We will all be diligent with protecting you, Beth. I will help you with anything you need. Mom and Frank will be here, Tom, Rosie, Lee. We will all rally as we always do. And Jack, we are here for you as well. Anything you need. We'll all pitch in...you know that's what we do."

The couple nodded.

"Your doctor will monitor you closely. Do whatever he tells you. If he tells you to stay in bed, then stay in bed. I know it will drive you crazy, but it's temporary. And think of the consequences if you don't."

"I know, Sam," Elizabeth replied. "I'll listen."

"And I'll come over and watch as many movies with you as you want," Sam said, giving Elizabeth a genuine smile.

Letting out a small laugh, Elizabeth replied, "I'll take you up on your offer if it comes to that."

"Thank you, Sam," Jack added. "We appreciate all of you."

Sam laid her hand on Jack's shoulder, "We know you do. And we also know that you would do everything in your power to help us with anything."

Jack nodded then hugged her.

"I should get going. Tom needs to get chores done before I go into work."

"Thanks for watching the kids for us," Elizabeth said as she hugged Sam goodbye.

"Of course," Sam replied. "Anytime. I love you guys."

"We love you, too, Sam," Jack stated.

They stood in the doorway, arms around each other, watching Sam as she drove down the driveway. Wyatt ran up to the porch and they stepped aside to let him in, but he turned and sat down in front of Jack and Elizabeth, leaning against both of their legs, looking out over the ranch.

…..

A knock at the door brought Elizabeth out of her trance as she stared at the television. The kids were in bed and Jack was out in his office working. She crossed the room and opened the door to find Rosemary in tears. The woman rushed in, wrapping her arms around her friend, holding her as if she hadn't seen her in years.

"Liz, I just heard," Rosemary said, holding her friend at arm's length, looking her up and down. "How are you doing?"

Elizabeth moved back as Rosemary stepped into the house, closing the door behind her. They walked into the living room and sat down as Elizabeth muted the TV.

"I'm alright. Feeling much better now that I've gotten some fluids in me and we have a working air conditioner."

"That's not what I meant, Liz. How are you feeling? This has got to be scary."

"Rosie," Elizabeth started, but the tears took over once more.

"Oh, Liz." Rosemary leaned to her friend, holding her as close as she could, her belly between them.

The pair cried together in each other's arms, letting the tears flow, giving them both the emotional release that they needed. Rosemary held Elizabeth's face in her hands, wiping her tears away.

"I'm so scared, Rosie."

"I know. So am I."

They were sitting sideways on the couch now, facing each other, their elbows resting on the top of the cushion.

"I never dreamt that this would happen," Elizabeth started. "I don't even know how I should feel."

"Can I give you my opinion?"

"Of course."

"Enjoy it. Be happy. Be ecstatic. You're having a baby, Liz."

For the first time, Elizabeth allowed herself to think of the baby growing inside her without letting it cloud over with fear of the 'what ifs.'

Her eyes lifted from the couch to Rosie's face, and a smile graced Elizabeth's lips. "I'm having a baby."

Rosemary took Elizabeth's hands in hers, shaking them gently back and forth, "You're having a baby."

"Oh my gosh, I'm having a baby!" Elizabeth exclaimed, as if it was the first time she'd heard the news.

"So...how are you feeling now?"

"Happy...and scared."

"At least now you can include 'happy' in that answer."

"Thanks to you."

"Did you seriously not know you might be pregnant? What about your period?"

"It's been irregular since the twins were born. I've skipped a month here and there, so I didn't think anything of it."

"Any idea how far along you are?"

"No. Not yet. We'll find out on Monday."

The women visited for a while longer, discussing how close their children will be in age and friendships. When it was time for Rosemary to leave, the women stood in the doorway, hugging once again.

"Thank you, Rosie. You have no idea how much you've helped me tonight."

"Liz, you're my best friend, my sister, and I'll do anything for you."

Elizabeth watched Rosemary drive away until her car was out of sight, then she looked up at the office window, a glowing rectangle against the night's darkness. She walked across the porch to the garage and headed up the steps that led to Jack's office. When she entered the room, Jack was sitting at the desk, his elbows resting on it, his head in his hands. Elizabeth quietly crossed the room and walked around to Jack's side.

She gently laid her hand on his shoulder, "Jack."

Having not heard her enter, Jack shot up in his seat, pushing his chair back from the desk. "Beth, what's wrong? Are you okay?"

Elizabeth sat on the edge of the desk, resting her hands on either side of her hips. "I'm fine, Jack. Are you okay?"

Jack scooted his chair forward toward the desk, stopping in front of her, and encircled her waist with his arms, resting his cheek against her stomach. Elizabeth moved her arms around him, holding him against her. His ear was on her belly, as if he was trying to hear the baby, as Elizabeth ran her fingers through his hair.

Jack leaned back in the chair and looked up at his wife. "Can we be happy about this?" he asked in a sullen voice.

"I think we need to. And yes...I want to be," she smiled.

Jack stood and stepped in front of her, straddling her legs with his as he wrapped her waist with his arms. "So...and I never thought I would ever say this again...we're having a baby?" A smile began to form on his lips.

Elizabeth smiled and nodded. "Yes, Cowboy, we're having a baby."

Jack lifted her up and turned in a circle, spinning her around. Setting her down on her feet, he moved his hands deep into her hair and covered her lips with his.

"Is this a miracle from God?" Jack asked, taking a step back.

"I don't know any other way to explain it," she smiled.

Jack laid his hands on her stomach, "A blessing from above."

She laid her hands over his, "A blessing."

Jack felt her belly, gingerly brushing his hands across her skin, suddenly noticing there was already a small bump forming.

"Well, this explains why my pants were getting tight," she said with a small laugh. After a brief moment, Elizabeth raised her gaze to Jack, "I should get back to the house to check on the kids."

"I'll just clean this up and I'll be right there."

"Okay," she said as she stretched onto her toes, kissing his cheek.

Jack watched her as she left the office. He moved to his desk, straightening the papers that were spread across the top. Once they were in a neat stack, he turned the computer off then headed to the house. As he crossed the front porch and passed in front of the window, he could see Elizabeth across the house in the kitchen. He stopped to watch her, as she lifted her shirt up slightly. She laid her hands on her belly, looking down as she gently rubbed the small baby bump that had secretly been growing.

…..

August 25th, 2014 – Primrose OB/GYN

Jack paced the floor, wringing his sweaty hands together. He was mumbling something under his breath, but Elizabeth couldn't understand him. She watched him pace and his anxiety was feeding hers.

"Jack, please," she begged. "Please sit down."

"Sorry," he replied, taking the seat next to the exam table.

The couple remained silent, waiting for the doctor to show up. It had been almost twenty minutes since they were led to the room and Elizabeth was instructed to remove her clothing and put on the thin, worn gown. She sat on the paper covered table, her legs hanging over the edge. She twisted the blue paisley fabric between her fingers as she stared at the polish on her toes. It was red and chipping off. She'd painted them a week ago, and with walking outside in flip flops, it had not lasted long before it began to flake off. She made a mental note to remove the polish that night, then crossed one foot over the other, in an attempt to hide her toes.

Jack had his pocket knife out now, flipping the blade out, then tucking it back in. Only to repeat it over and over, causing Elizabeth to get agitated by the constant clicking sound of the blade.

"Jack!" she exclaimed, louder than she'd intended.

"I'm sorry," he said, immediately returning it to his pocket.

A faint knock at the door signaled that their doctor had finally made it to their room. The door swung open and he stepped inside.

"Good morning, Elizabeth, Jack," he said as he moved to his stool and took a seat.

"Hello, Dr. Shepherd," Elizabeth replied.

Jack moved to the edge of his seat, his hands still clasped together tightly, waiting for the doctor to speak.

Dr. Shepherd skimmed over her chart on the tablet, the questions having already been answered and typed in by the nurse. He then turned on the stool to face Jack and Elizabeth and laid his hands on his knees.

"Well, I assume that we aren't exactly excited about this pregnancy."

"We don't know what to think yet, Sir," Jack replied.

"I'm not going to sugarcoat anything, as I'm sure you'd rather I not."

"No, Sir."

The doctor locked his fingers together and leaned forward onto his forearms. "This is a very risky pregnancy. It will not be without its challenges. And if by some chance you are having twins again, I'm not so sure it's a good idea to even continue forward with it."

"No, absolutely not," Elizabeth exclaimed. "There is no way in hell that we will terminate this pregnancy. No matter the risks."

Jack straightened in shock, having never heard a foul word from his wife's mouth in all the time he'd known her.

"I understand your feelings on that matter, but if it comes down to it, the mother is my patient and who I will attempt to save first," Dr. Shepherd informed them.

Jack swallowed hard, trying to dislodge the lump that had risen into his throat. Attempt to save first? Is this what this has come to already? he asked himself.

"My baby comes first," Elizabeth said. Her voice was steadfast and firm.

"Well, let's get you checked out, then make a game plan," the doctor said. He stood up, washed his hands with sanitizer, then pulled out a pair of gloves from the cardboard box that was hanging on the wall.

Once Elizabeth was situated on the table, her feet in the stirrups, the doctor picked up the ultrasound wand and inserted it into Elizabeth. He moved it around as he watched the small black and white screen, trying to find the perfect angle. He'd stop occasionally, entering information into the computer, taking measurements, checking out everything.

As Jack and Elizabeth watched, trying to make out what was on the screen, the doctor tapped on the keyboard and a fast-paced swooshing sound began.

"Is that the heartbeat?" Elizabeth asked, covering her mouth with her hand.

"Yes. A very healthy heartbeat, too," Dr. Shepherd replied.

Jack reached for Elizabeth's hand, taking it in his, as he stared at the monitor.

"And here's your baby," the doctor added, pointing to the screen. "There's the head, the body."

Elizabeth looked at Jack and saw that he was crying now. He lifted her hand to his chest, holding it tightly. Her own tears began to fall as she looked back at the screen.

"It looks like you are about eight weeks and four days along."

"Eight weeks? Already?" Elizabeth asked in shock.

"Yes, he or she is measuring at sixty days right now. And everything looks perfect. I don't see anything wrong so far. And there most definitely is only one in there. Your due date is March 19th." The doctor removed the wand and laid it on the metal table beside the bed, then pulled off the gloves and tossed them into the trash can. A few more clicks on the computer, and a picture of the ultrasound was printed. He picked it up and handed it to Jack.

Jack held it in his hand, staring at the little shape that had begun to grow in his wife's womb. His emotions were all over the place, but excitement was building and beginning to take over, pushing the fear and anger out of its way. He felt Elizabeth squeeze his hand and his eyes moved to hers. He held the photo in front of her as they looked at it together.

"Right now, everything looks as it should and you have a healthy little baby," the doctor smiled. "I want to see you back here in a month, and we'll recheck you."

"Thank you, Doctor," Elizabeth said, still smiling at the ultrasound picture.

"Do you have any questions?"

"Does she need to do anything different?" Jack asked. "Like stay off her feet, take it easy, no umm..."

The doctor tipped his head and smiled at Jack. "Right now, she can go on as normal. I wouldn't have her out tossing bales of hay or anything like that," the doctor teased. "But she can do her normal tasks...and she can have sex if that's what you wanted to ask."

"No," Jack quickly replied, "I just wondered...well...if she should just relax."

"She can relax all that she wants," Dr. Shepherd added. "But as we get into the second and especially the third trimester, she will most likely be on bedrest, just to be safe. So, for now, go about your days like normal."

"Thank you, Dr. Shepherd," Elizabeth said.

When the doctor closed the door behind him, Elizabeth stood to get dressed. Jack assisted her, holding each item until she was ready, and once dressed, he pulled her into his arms. "This just got very real," he said into her ear.

Elizabeth was holding the ultrasound in her hand as she hugged him, squeezing her eyes tightly to stave off the tears that tried to make their appearance once more.

….

Jack led Maverick out to the pasture that was next to the barn. He unsnapped the lead and watched the horse as he ran across the field, kicking and bucking.

"He really is magnificent," Elizabeth said, walking up behind her husband.

Jack lifted his arm across her shoulders when she reached his side. "Yes, he is."

"He's two and a half?"

"Yes, he's a youngster."

"I still can't believe that we own him. He's just gorgeous."

"I know. He's perfect," Jack grinned, watching the horse running across the grass.

"When will we have foals from him?"

"The mares have already been bred this year. So, he'll cover the herd next year. Then his foals will start hitting the ground in 2016."

"That's so long to wait," she sighed.

"I know." Jack tightened his arm around her, pulling her closer to his side. "But it will go by fast."

They watched the horse as he grazed, enjoying the fresh grass.

"Cover the herd?" Elizabeth asked. "Is that what I think it is?"

Jack chuckled, "Yes, it's exactly what you think it is. He'll get to hang out with all the mares in the pasture and well...cover them."

Elizabeth laughed, "He'll be a busy stud."

"That's what Lee said...well...he said lucky."

"Of course, he did," she laughed.

The couple walked, hand in hand, to their children who were playing in the grass next to the barn. They had been told on the day that Maverick arrived, to stay away from him. At least until Jack got acquainted with the horse and was able to work with the animal. Hope was grazing nearby in the shade of the barn and came running when they reached the kids. She nuzzled Elizabeth's hand, searching for her bottle.

"You already ate, girl," Elizabeth said, petting the filly's soft, fuzzy mane.

As they walked through the barn, Peyton did her usual, kissing each and every horse that stuck its head out to say 'hello.'

Buck, Annie, Jake, Ranger, Wrangler and Tucker were always first to greet her, each getting a kiss on the nose. Harley and Duke never missed out, either. Three horses that were there for training joined in as well, each receiving a kiss from the three-year-old. The ponies couldn't quite reach the top of their shortened door, so Jack opened their pens so Peyton could greet them as well. Max, Becky's horse, had been shy at first, but with each visit from the toddler, he'd warmed up to her and had his head out and waited.

"Hi, Max," she said, then puckered her little lips and pressed them against the horse's nose.

"Did you get all of them, Pey?" Jack asked, holding his hand out for her to take.

"All of them," she said, proudly smiling and taking her daddy's hand.

The family of five held hands in one line, Peyton in the middle between Jack and Elizabeth, with the boys on each end, walked to the house while Wyatt chased a squirrel in front of them. Hope stood at the barn briefly, watching the family walk away, then took off running toward them. Zipping past, she bucked and kicked so hard that she almost fell over, sending the family into bouts of laughter.

…..

"Are they all tucked in?" Elizabeth asked as she pulled back the covers of their bed.

"Yes, tucked in, read to, and already asleep," Jack replied, sliding into the bed next to her.

With pillows propped under their heads, Elizabeth snuggled up against Jack, his arm around her, as he clicked the remote to turn on the TV.

"What do you feel like watching?" he asked, pulling up the guide on the screen.

Elizabeth ran her hand across Jack's chest, then began to move down. When her fingers reached the waistline of his pants, Jack grabbed her hand, stopping her.

"Not tonight, Beth."

She sat up on her elbow and looked down at Jack. "What?"

"I'm tired. Let's just watch a movie or something."

"Seriously, Jack."

He turned his head to look at her, "What?"

"You have never turned me down since the day we were married. What's going on?"

Jack looked back at the television and continued scrolling through the guide. "Nothing is going on. I just...I don't feel like it."

"So...this is how it's going to be for the next seven months?" she asked, sitting up beside him.

Jack muted the TV and rolled to face his wife. "Just because I don't feel like having sex tonight?"

"Tell me why." she asked softly. "The real reason."

Jack laid back onto his pillow, an arm behind his head, and stared at the ceiling.

"Tell me why," she said again.

"Because I'm afraid to," he blurted out. "I'm afraid that I'll hurt you or the baby. I'm afraid that sex could cause you to...," Jack's voice trailed off and his eyes remained upward.

Elizabeth moved over him, straddling his body, forcing him to look at her. "You heard the doctor today. Everything is fine and I can go on like normal right now."

"But they don't really know, do they? They don't know why it happened in the first place, so how could he possibly know that it would be safe?"

"Jack, please. I'm not going to stop doing my normal things until they tell me to. I'm fine," she insisted. She moved off of him, laying her body alongside his.

"I'm sorry, Beth. I just can't." Jack ran his hand down the back of her head and down her hair, over and over.

The Horse Whisperer was playing on the TV and they absentmindedly watched it. Robert Redford was squatting in the field, waiting for Pilgrim, the troubled horse that had gotten away, to return to him. They were in a large open field, the beautiful Montana mountains in the background, each waiting for the other. The horse slowly approached him, step-by-step, learning to trust again. As the sun was setting, Pilgrim reached the man, and Redford slowly stood, taking hold of the horse's halter, and gently caressed the animal's cheek.

Elizabeth moved back onto Jack, lying across his body, and covered his lips with hers.

"Beth, please," he said, gripping her arms and pushing her up.

"Trust me," she said. "I just know that everything will be fine."

"And how could you possibly know that?"

"I don't know, I just do." She kissed him again, harder, causing Jack to wrap his arms around her, pulling her to him until there was no space between them.

"No," he said suddenly and sternly, pushing her back.

Elizabeth sat up, still straddling Jack, and let out a humph. She removed her shirt and hovered over him, "Are you seriously not going to make love to me again for the next seven months?"

"That's not fair, Beth," Jack said, his gaze locked with hers.

"I'm just as scared as you are, Jack." She paused; her eyes locked with her husband's. "I need you right now," she pleaded, her eyes begging for Jack to calm her fears.

Letting out a sigh, Jack scanned her body up and down, then ran his hands along her arms. Elizabeth lowered back down, kissing him once more, but this time...Jack didn't stop her. He wrapped his arms around her and in one swift motion, he rolled over, taking her with him. With her now on the bottom, Jack moved down her body, his lips exploring every inch of her, and pulled her black lace panties off.

After discarding his own clothes onto the floor, Jack slowly worked his way up her body, his lips finding their way back to hers, but not before stopping and kissing the small bump of her belly. Very gently, he eased into her, taking care not to hurt her.

Jack made love to his wife that evening. Physically and emotionally, they grew even closer. The need between them both to be together grew in urgency; much more than just animalistic desire, but a real need to connect and be one.

The strength in her husband's body was what Elizabeth needed surrounding her now. The safety of his embrace eased her fears; the warmth of his love gave her peace. As Jack made love to her, everything else fell away, leaving only them. No "what ifs," no worries, no trepidations, only a couple madly in love with one another. Slow movements, no hurried actions, only time – time to be together, time to love. Never knowing how much time they really had, only magnified their experience, leaving them in awe with how, even after all these years, it could still get better.

…..

August 27th, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch

With Jack by her side, Elizabeth nervously picked up her phone and made the call she'd been dreading for the past few days.

"Hi, sweetie," William said as he answered the phone. "How are you?"

"Hi, Daddy. I'm good. Is Momma there? I'd like to talk to both of you."

"Yes, I'll get her. Is everything okay?" he asked as he walked through the house to the sunroom.

"Yes, everything is okay," she said, not sure if she was lying or not.

William switched the phone to speakerphone, "Your mom's here."

"Hi, Momma."

"Hi, Beth."

"There's something that I need to tell you, well...we need to tell you. Jack is here, too."

"Hello, William. Hello, Grace."

"Well, hello, Jack. So good to hear from you, too. Now, what is this that you need to tell us?" William asked.

"Momma, Daddy...I'm pregnant."

Silence fell over the line and Elizabeth thought maybe the call had been dropped.

"Are you still there?"

"Yes, we're here, dear," William answered.

"Please, say something."

"I thought you had your tubes tied," Grace finally said.

"I did, Momma. They think my tubes grew back together. I guess this is a possibility, more so for younger women."

They could hear a sniffle on the other end of the line as Grace began to cry.

"Momma?"

"I'm here, Beth," Grace said, her voice cracking.

"What did the doctor say?" William asked.

"He said that everything looks good, Sir," Jack answered. "They are going to monitor her very closely and we go back in a month."

The conversation fell quiet once more, no one quite sure what to say, the occasional sob could be heard on the other end.

"I really believe that everything will be just fine," Elizabeth said, hoping to ease her parents' worries.

"I'm sure it will be," William added. "We'll be praying for you both."

"Thank you, Daddy."

"Thank you, William," Jack said. "We've been doing a lot of that already, ourselves."

"That's all you can do right now, Son," William said. "And Beth, please take it easy."

"I will, Daddy," Elizabeth replied. "And, Daddy, Momma?"

"Yes, Dear," Grace answered.

"Please be happy about this. We are. We're scared, too. But we're also happy for this blessing."

"Of course, Honey," William responded. "We are happy for you both. Congratulations."

"Thank you, Sir."

"Please keep us posted after every appointment, Beth."

"I will."

"Goodbye, Beth."

"Goodbye, Daddy. Goodbye, Momma."

"Goodbye, Sir, Ma'am."

"Bye, Jack," Grace said.

When the call ended, Jack pulled Elizabeth into a hug, knowing she'd been very nervous about making that call. "That went pretty good."

"Yes, better than I expected. But they know we didn't do it on purpose, so there really wasn't anybody to blame."

"True," Jack said, wrapping his arms around her and kissing her cheek. "We will be happy about this. It's what we wanted."

"Yes, it is," she replied, nervousness always lurking in her words.

...

August 28th, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Jack returned home after his final physical therapy appointment. He was met at the door by his three children, all dancing around, excited to tell him about their day. They had played on their playground, painted in Mommy's studio, and studied their ABCs.

"Wow, that sounds like a busy day, kids."

"It was like school," Peyton exclaimed. "We were Mommy's students."

"That's wonderful, Pey. What did you guys paint?"

All three of the kids ran around the corner to where their paintings were still drying, grabbing them to show their daddy.

"Those are still wet," Elizabeth said loudly.

"We be careful, Mommy," Colton said.

They returned to Jack, each holding up their painting. All three sheets were adorned with painted handprints. Peyton had two blue ones made into elephants, Blake's had three green and one red handprint, making a caterpillar, and Colton's hand was a turkey.

"Wow, these are beautiful," Jack said, kneeling in front of them for a better look at their paintings. "You guys did these all by yourselves?"

"Mommy helped," Blake replied, "but we picked out the colors."

"These are really great," Jack said, giving each painting his attention.

"Mommy, Daddy loves them," Peyton shouted, running into the kitchen.

"I told you he would," Elizabeth said, smiling at her enthusiastic daughter.

Jack joined Elizabeth in the kitchen while the kids laid their paintings down on the table to finish drying. He walked up behind her, wrapped his arms around her waist, and kissed her neck.

"Hello, Beautiful," he said into her ear.

"Hey there, Cowboy. So...did they release you?" she asked, turning to face her husband.

Jack held both arms into the air, "I have been freed. I am released to full duty and no more therapy."

"That's wonderful. I'm so proud of you for following orders and doing the workouts."

"I didn't have a choice," he grinned.

"What do you mean, you didn't have a choice?"

"It was either listen to them and do what I'm told, or deal with the wrath of Elizabeth Thornton. I've seen that, I don't want it," he teased.

"Very funny, Jack. But you have not seen the wrath of Elizabeth Thornton yet."

"What?" he asked, stepping back from her. "I haven't?"

"Oh, no. You've just seen me a little upset," she said, holding up her hand and making a small gap between her fingers. "And trust me, you don't want the wrath."

Jack moved back to her and wrapped his arms around her again, "I think I can handle anything you dish out, Mrs. Thornton."

"Are you willing to risk it?"

Jack looked into her eyes, growing a bit nervous. "Ummm, I'm guessing...no?"

Elizabeth shook her head, trying to keep from smiling, but unable to, the corners of her mouth lifted and she began to laugh.

"Hmm mmm, that's what I thought." Jack pressed his lips to her neck and began kissing her, sending chills through her body.

"If you don't stop that, supper will burn," she said, pushing him back.

"Well, since we have three hungry children, I guess I'll stop...for now," he said, then gave her neck one more quick kiss.

…..

August 30th, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch

"That dress is adorable," Elizabeth said as Rosie walked into the house.

"Thank you. Not much fits me these days, but I lucked out with this one."

"Well, it's beautiful."

It was the day of Rosemary's baby shower and she was wearing a peach dress with a white floral crop wrap blouse that cross-tied just above her large belly, accentuating her size.

"Why are we doing this again?" Rosemary asked.

"Because my friend is having another baby and we are going to celebrate."

"Liz, I already have everything I need."

"This is a diaper party. You can never have too many diapers. Besides, this is more for just having fun than anything else. Girls' day."

Rosie nodded, "A girls' day. I like that. Okay," she said, clapping her hands together, "let's get this party started."

Sam, Charlotte, Abby, and Faith were a few of the guests that day. Several of Rosemary's friends from school and church also attended. The women were gathered in the kitchen as Charlotte cut the cake she'd made. The gender-neutral dessert was covered in light green fondant with letters spelling out 'baby' set across the top. A small clothes line hung across the front of the cake, with a onesie, bib, bunny and booties hanging from it.

"Charlotte, your cakes are always amazing," Faith said as she took her first bite. "I don't know how you get them so moist."

"Applesauce," Charlotte replied.

"Applesauce?" Abby asked.

"Yes, I replace one of the eggs with applesauce, and I add pudding mix. But most important, you have to remove the cake from the oven before it's overdone. It's all in the smell."

"I'll have to try that," said Stephanie, one of Rosie's friends from church.

The women enjoyed their cake, punch and other snacks while they played a few baby shower party games. One of which, Elizabeth had placed different melted chocolate bars in diapers and the women had to smell them and guess what kind of candy bars they were. Sam was able to name them all and won the Golden Diaper award, a silly little plastic trophy that Elizabeth had found online.

As the guests were leaving, Rosemary thanked and hugged each and every person before they left. Sam, Faith and Charlotte remained behind to help Elizabeth clean up while Rosie sat on the stool at the island.

"Are you sure that I can't help you guys with something?" Rosemary asked.

"Absolutely not," Elizabeth stated. "This is your day; you will stay right there and relax your feet."

"Hallelujah for that," Rosie exclaimed. "My dogs are barkin'"

"Would everyone like some coffee?" Elizabeth asked once they were finished.

"Yes, that sounds wonderful," Charlotte replied.

Elizabeth started a pot, then joined the women around the island.

"How are you feeling, Beth?" Sam asked.

"I'm doing alright. That bout with the flu was awful, I felt like death warmed over. But I have felt great since then."

"That's good, sweetie," Charlotte said.

"Oh, you had the flu?" Faith asked.

Sam and Charlotte watched Elizabeth, waiting for her to share the news.

"Well, Faith, it's a little more than that."

Faith looked around, seeing the strange expressions on everyone. "What's going on?"

"I did have the flu, and it got me sent to the hospital, where I found out that I'm pregnant."

"What? That's wonderful," she continued to look around. "Is it not wonderful?" she asked, the pitch and volume of her voice falling.

"Remember what happened when I had the twins?"

"Yes. Oh...yes," Faith remembered. "So, are you...okay?"

"I am so far. They are going to watch me closely."

"So," Faith looked back and forth between the women again. "Is this good news?"

Elizabeth smiled and nodded. "Yes, I think so."

Feeling relieved, Faith asked, "When are you due?"

"March 19th. I actually wanted to talk to you about that...your wedding."

"Oh, we've got time," Faith assured. "I still want you as a bridesmaid if you're willing."

"Of course," Elizabeth stated. "I just don't want to mess with your planning with the dresses and all."

"Don't worry about that. We'll have them picked out, and when you're ready, we'll go in for a fitting."

The women visited some more about Faith and Walker's wedding plans. The location had been reserved, a caterer and photographer booked, and an appointment for wedding dress shopping was set for the following month.

"Will you be able to go to my dress appointment with me?" Faith asked Rosie and Elizabeth.

"Well, it depends when this little baby decides to make an appearance," Rosemary answered, rubbing her large belly.

"Of course," Faith replied. "What about you, Beth?"

"I wouldn't miss it for the world, as long as Rosie's not in labor," she grinned.

As they finished their coffee and wedding and baby discussions, everyone said their goodbyes and left Elizabeth alone in the quiet house. Jack would be returning soon with the kids, so Elizabeth sat down behind her piano, something she hadn't been doing much of lately. She laid her fingers on the keys and stared at her hands. She closed her eyes and began to play a melody that she'd played many times. She was lost in her music when Jack opened the door, silencing the children to listen to their mother.

The little group stood in the entry way, watching Elizabeth as she was lost in her own world; a world of perfect harmonies. As she laid her fingers across the final notes, her family began to clap and the kids ran to her.

"How are all my babies," she exclaimed, excited to see them all. She pulled Peyton onto her lap as Blake and Colton sat on either side of her. Jack stood behind his wife, his hands on her shoulders, and bent down to kiss her cheek.

"Keep playing," he whispered in her ear before he straightened.

"Yes, Mommy, play again," Colton shouted.

Elizabeth returned her hands to the ebony and ivory keys of her baby grand, and began to play. Peyton laid her hands on top of her mother's, following her movements with each finger.

"Are you going to be a pianist someday, Pey?" Jack asked.

"Yes, just like Mommy."

…..

September 2nd, 2014 – Crossroads Cowboy Church

Jack was thumbing through his Bible as the men joined them, circling around the firepit again. He found the page he'd been searching for and marked it with the paper that was covered with his notes. He looked up, watching the men as they arrived, greeting each one as they took their seats. When it was time to start, Jack opened his Bible but was stopped before he could even begin.

Mason, Becky's friend, stood and began to speak for the group. "Jack, we heard about Elizabeth's pregnancy and about what had happened last time. We would like to pray for you and your wife if you'd let us.

Unable to speak, Jack quickly nodded his head.

Lee and Tom flanked Jack and each turned to face him, laying their hands on his shoulders. All of the other men stood, and circled around Jack, laying their hands on him and each other. With everyone's hats removed, heads bowed, and eyes closed, Mason began to pray.

When he finished praying and the men returned to their seats, Jack wiped his eyes and scanned the faces before him. "Thank you. Thank you, everyone," he said, his voice cracking. "Elizabeth and I greatly appreciate this."

"Of course, Jack," Josh said. "You have done so much for all of us. This is literally the least we could do."

All of the men were nodding their heads, thinking of how their own lives have changed since attending the Bible study.

"Yes, Jack. Most of us were walking around this planet absolutely lost, without a real purpose. We have found our purpose now," Bret, another bronc rider, added.

"I'm grateful for each and every one of you," Jack said, his eyes scanning the men again. "You guys have given me purpose as well."

Tom took over the Bible study that evening, going off of Jack's plan. His emotions from the gesture of the men had taken over him and he'd been unable to make heads or tails from his notes. They finished the evening with another prayer, mentioning Elizabeth one more time, then the men said their goodbyes and headed home.

As soon as Jack arrived, Elizabeth was waiting to hear about his night, and Jack shared the continued blessings that had been permeating throughout the group since they'd begun.

…..

September 3rd, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Elizabeth was standing in the bathroom, wearing her plush, white robe. She held her hand under the running water, checking the temperature of her bath. Pouring a little more of the scented liquid, she watched the mountain of bubbles increase across the surface of the water, and smelled the pale scent of lilac that filled the air.

She straightened after checking the temperature one last time, and just as she was about to pull the tie that held the robe closed, she felt a set of hands reaching around her, gripping onto the soft band that encircled her waist.

Jack pulled it slowly, and looking over her shoulder, he watched the robe fall open, revealing her beautiful body. He slid his hand across her belly, with the tiniest bump now showing, and felt where his child was growing. He pressed his lips to her neck and slowly kissed her as she tipped her head back against his chest.

The smallest of moans escaped her lips as she closed her eyes and focused on her husband's touch. One hand still rested against her belly, moving ever so slightly across it. His other hand had migrated upward toward her breast, massaging it now, rolling the nipple of her swollen bosom.

Jack pulled the robe off of her shoulders and let gravity do the rest as it fell into a heap around her feet on the floor. He encircled her body with his arms, laying across her chest, each hand gripping her shoulders. Elizabeth laid her hands on his forearms that crossed in front of her, feeling his warm breath gently grazing along her cheek. She turned her head until their lips met, Jack's eagerly taking hers, his tongue just inside her parted mouth.

They hadn't been together since the night of their doctor's appointment, Jack still being nervous about the baby had taken its toll on their intimacy. But tonight, he could hold back no longer. He wanted her, and he wanted her now.

Elizabeth could feel Jack's chest heaving against her back, his breath growing faster and deeper. His arms tightened around her as his lips continued to explore: first her chin, then her cheek, and finally her neck just below her ear. She had also noticed that she felt no clothing between them, Jack had entered the bathroom naked, ready to take his wife. He must have been standing in the doorway watching me, Elizabeth thought to herself, as Jack has done many times in the past.

He scooped her up into his arms, stepped into the bathtub, and lowered down to his knees with ease until they were both in the warmth of the water's cover. Jack laid into the curve of the tub, pulling Elizabeth with him, her back still against his chest, his knees bent on either side of her as she propped her feet up onto the end. The cool air of the room mixed with the excited energy that Jack was sending through her, created goosebumps along her exposed legs. He rested his arm across her chest, cupping her right breast in his hand, while his other hand gripped her opposite shoulder.

The bubbles still floated along the surface, hiding what was below, but Elizabeth could feel him, hard and ready against her back. But Jack simply caressed her, one hand remaining on her breast, the other now moving over her stomach once more. Then he slipped his hand between her legs, pressing hard against her, and Elizabeth moaned from the pleasure that emanated through her body.

Her hormones were already heightening everything, making her want Jack more than usual: every nerve ending more vulnerable to the touch, every sensation elevated. Another throaty moan escaped through her lips and Jack turned her head and took her mouth with his. His tongue aggressively danced with hers, trying to go deeper, begging for more.

With his fingers inside her, exploring all the right spots, Elizabeth's legs fell open, inviting him in deeper as she pressed her hips to him. When she arched her back against him, Jack couldn't wait any longer, he wanted inside her, he wanted to feel her tighten around him. He moved his hands under her armpits and pushed her up.

Elizabeth turned around, straddling him now, looking down into his wanting eyes. They stared at each other as she rose above him, and with a hand gripping his extremely erect manhood, she guided him into her, lowering down until he was fully inside her.

A gasp slipped from Jack's mouth as she surrounded him, the tightness of her lighting a wildfire within him. He leaned his head back and closed his eyes, simply feeling the unbelievable pleasure that his wife was creating with the rocking of her hips. He felt her lips touch his and he swiftly moved his hands into her hair, his fingers gripping her long tresses, as he pulled her head to his, deepening their kiss even more.

"Oh God, Beth," Jack said as she began to move slightly faster. He gripped her hips in an attempt to slow her, to prolong it, but it was too late. Jack let go as he spilled inside her, and by the sounds that escaped her mouth, she joined him in the explosion of the climax.

Elizabeth moved off her husband, laying alongside his body under the water, her leg resting across his. Jack laid his hand on her thigh, holding onto it as if he didn't want her to go, pulling her leg up slightly.

"Well, that was unexpected," Elizabeth said, looking up at Jack.

He pushed her hair back with his hand, rested it on her cheek for a moment, then returned it to her leg. "I just couldn't help myself when I saw you standing there in your robe...knowing what was underneath," he grinned.

"Well, I'm very glad to hear that," she stated, running her fingers along the rough ridges of his abs.

Jack kissed the top of her head before continuing, "I'm sorry I've been so...distant in bed. You know that I'm just worried. It definitely doesn't have anything to do with you."

"I know," she replied. "I understand."

"And believe me when I tell you this...you are more beautiful than ever and I have wanted you very badly all week," he grinned, his dimples deep. He pulled her chin up, their lips meeting, and softly and tenderly kissed her.