Okay...gender reveal chapter! I hope everyone is as excited as J&E! This has a lot of steamy moments...but no steam alerts were necessary. Thank you to all that take the time to leave a review. They are greatly appreciated. More would be wonderful! ;) So..keep 'em coming.


October 5th, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Jack met Dr. Marc Paulson at his truck when the chiropractor arrived. After greeting him, he led the man into the barn where Buck was waiting, tied in the aisle.

"He's hurting pretty badly again," Jack said, standing at the horse's head.

Marc evaluated Buck, pushing down on pressure points, pulling on his tail, lifting his legs. After a few adjustments, he moved the horse's head and adjusted Buck at his pole and his neck. The horse let out a hard breath of relief, and began licking his lips.

"Was that the spot, ole man?" Jack asked, chuckling at Buck's response.

After another adjustment on the horse's hips, Buck let out one more sigh, and began licking his lips again.

"I think that was it, Doc," Jack said as he scratched Buck's forehead.

"Hopefully he'll stay in this time, but I'll come back in a month just to be sure. He'll probably need at least one more visit after that."

"Thank you, Marc," Jack said as he walked the man out to his truck. "I started giving him some bute, too. That seems to be helping him some."

"If he's still showing signs of pain, you might want to give your vet a call and get a stronger pain reliever. His hips were out pretty badly, so he's going to hurt if they don't stay put. I'm guessing that arthritis might be setting in, too."

"I was afraid of that. Doc Lumley is my next call." Jack held out his arm to shake his friend's hand. "Thanks for coming out, Marc. I'm sure ole Buck will be feeling much better now. I'll see you next month."

"See you then, Jack."

Jack walked back into the barn and untied Buck. He led him out to a small pasture close to the house, and turned him loose. The horse jogged out into the grass, laid down, and rolled. Jack leaned on the fence and watched the horse, making certain that he was okay when Buck got back on his feet.

Once up, he shook the grass from his back and began to eat. Jack returned to the barn and let Hope out, then walked to the house, the filly not far behind. When he went inside, Hope ran around to the backyard, her favorite spot to graze.

…..

October 6th, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Jack walked to the house after the veterinarian left. He had come out to take a look at Harley, and left a bottle of stronger pain reliever, a supplement, and some instructions for a few things for Jack to try.

He was in the half bath off the kitchen washing his hands when Elizabeth stepped into the doorway.

"What did the vet say?"

"He thinks it's arthritis and gave me a joint health supplement, a better pain reliever, and a liniment to rub Buck's joints down with."

"That's good. Those should help him, right?"

"I hope so," Jack said as he dried his hands on the towel. He hung the towel back on the ring and moved to Elizabeth. "You are looking mighty fine today, Mrs. Thornton."

"So are you, Mr. Thornton," she said as she reached behind him and pinched his butt. He was wearing his chaps and Elizabeth hooked her finger over the leather and pulled him closer.

"One of these days, I'm going to be waiting for you in our bedroom...wearing nothing but these chaps."

"Now, that would be something I'd like to see," Elizabeth replied, giggling.

Jack left a trail of kisses along her neck, then whispered in her ear, "Then I'll make sure that happens."

"I can't wait," she said as she ran her hand across his butt once more.

"Beth, I must say, your pregnancy hormones are kinda great!" Jack said with laughter. "But then, you never really needed help in that matter, anyway," he added, then kissed her neck again.

Three children came barreling into the kitchen just as Elizabeth gripped the front strap of Jack's chaps, and she quickly lowered her hand as she stepped back.

"Hi, kids," Jack said, trying to keep from laughing at Elizabeth. "What have you been up to?"

…..

October 7th, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Elizabeth was sitting at the piano when Jack came down from putting the kids to bed. She was quietly humming something and trying to play along with it on the black and white keys.

"Are you finishing the song?" Jack asked, sliding onto the bench next to her.

"I was trying to. But you know what...I think it sounds better with just the guitar."

"Really? You don't think it needs the piano."

Elizabeth shook her head, "No. I think with two guitars, it will be perfect. Maybe you can get Tom to play with you."

"That's not a bad idea," Jack said, kissing her cheek. He moved his arm behind her, his palm on the bench next to her opposite hip. With his chin resting on her shoulder, he looked down at her hands that were resting on the keys. "Play me something?" he said softly.

Elizabeth began to play "Clean," the song she'd written and sung for Jack after his baptism. He watched her fingers move along the keys, amazed at how easy she made it look. When she finished, she turned her head to face him, his waiting lips taking hers.

Jack moved his left leg over the bench, straddling it. He pushed Elizabeth back slightly, lifted and pulled her leg over so she was facing him. Gripping her thighs, Jack pulled his wife onto his lap, her legs falling on either side of the bench, and kissed her hard, his tongue gracefully dancing with hers. With his hands flat against her back, Jack drew her in, pressing their bodies as close as her swollen belly would allow.

"I just can't get used to that," he said, smiling down at the baby bump.

"It's only going to get worse," she added, rubbing her stomach. "Much worse."

"Not worse, just different. Better," he added, kissing her neck.

She tipped her head back as a throaty moan slipped from her lips. Jack pushed her off of his lap and stood. He took her hands and pulled her to her feet, then scooped his wife into his arms and carried her upstairs. As they entered the bedroom, he lowered her to the floor, quietly closed the door, and locked it.

…..

October 12th, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Jack was sitting on the couch with his mother and Frank when Tom and Sam arrived. He met them at the door, greeting each of them and their kids. After sending the children downstairs to join his own, and directing Sam and Tom to join their parents in the living room, Jack went into the kitchen to check on Elizabeth.

She was standing at the stove, stirring a large pot of white chili, when Jack walked up behind her. His arms encircled her, his hands lay on her ever-growing belly, and he rested his chin on her shoulder. As she stirred the contents of the pot, Elizabeth tipped her head against Jack's chest and rested her free hand on top of his. Jack began to sway back and forth to music only they could hear, keeping his hands over his baby.

Charlotte and Sam decided to see if Elizabeth needed any help when they stopped just inside the kitchen, watching Jack and Elizabeth. The couple's eyes were closed, still swaying slightly, reveling in the new little life they had created.

Charlotte took hold of Sam's hands while they watched, both smiling, both hearts full of hope and peace. Sam started back to the couch, holding Charlotte's hand and pulling her away from the private moment.

Jack and Elizabeth joined the family in the living room and took a seat on the large leather couch, Jack's arm around his wife, Elizabeth nestled into his side.

"Do you need any help?" Charlotte as they sat down.

"Nope. It just needs to simmer for a bit," Elizabeth answered.

She was holding a few envelopes in her hand and gave them to Jack to pass out. He stood and handed one to Sam and Charlotte and laid Rosemary's and the others on the ottoman for when they arrived.

"What's this?" Charlotte asked as she opened it.

"We've decided to have a gender reveal party," Elizabeth answered.

"What? Really?" Sam asked, opening the envelope and removing the invitation. "This is wonderful," she stated as she read the card.

"Bulls or Barrels?" Charlotte asked, reading the invite. "This is adorable. See, Frank," she said as she held it up for her husband. "What will Baby Thornton be? Please join us for a gender reveal honoring Jack & Elizabeth. This is so cute, Beth."

"Thank you," Elizabeth replied.

"So, you guys found out what you're having already? And you haven't told any of us?" Rosemary called out as she walked into the room.

"Rosie, when did you get here?" Elizabeth asked, standing and crossing the room to take Stetson.

"Just now...and just in time to hear about a party," she said as she removed her son from the carrier and handed him to Elizabeth. "Where and when is the party?"

Jack held Rosemary's invitation out for her to take, and she tore into the envelope and removed the card.

"So, now I have to wait another two weeks to find out?" Rosemary asked as she dropped her hand to her side. "I thought we were friends." Everyone began laughing as Rosemary dropped onto the couch next to Elizabeth. "You know I have the patience of a gnat."

Elizabeth pushed into her friend's shoulder with her own, "I know. And I love you anyway."

She lifted Stetson to her shoulder, and rested her head against his. Elizabeth closed her eyes and breathed in the smell of a freshly bathed baby.

Rosemary moved her arm behind her friend and watched Elizabeth, a small smile on her face. "Are you ready to do this all over again?"

Elizabeth opened her eyes and looked at Rosemary. "Absolutely."

Another knock at the door got Jack on his feet, and he crossed the room to open it. Jason, Alicia and Callum had arrived, and the little boy, now almost two, ran across the room to play with Colton.

"He's getting so big," Charlotte commented as Jason and Alicia joined them in the living room.

"Yes, two going on ten," Alicia replied.

"I can't believe he's going to be two already," Elizabeth said as she shifted Stetson to her other shoulder.

"Me, too. Time has just flown by," Jason said.

Stetson was now on Elizabeth's shoulder that was closest to Jack, and he was brushing his finger across the baby's hand. Sam was watching him and nudged her husband, causing Tom to look over to see Jack looking down at the baby. The look in his brother's eyes was evident that Jack was meant to be a father. Tom thanked God once more for blessing Jack and Elizabeth with another child, and prayed for their safety again.

The group moved outside around the fire pit in the back yard as more people arrived. Jack and Elizabeth had invited everyone over for dinner, music and fellowship, before the weather would turn and winter arrived.

Faith and Walker were now there, and the women discussed her latest wedding plans, while Walker visited with the men. Lance arrived with his new girlfriend, Michelle, and she immediately settled in with the women, fitting right in.

Levi with his wife Cari, and their two sons, Chance and Sawyer, showed up at the same time as Dylan, his wife Emily, and their three daughters, Dakota, Oaklee, and Avery. The team roping mentors of Jack and Lee, were on the path to a world title that season, and the guys sat around the fire talking about their times and placings.

"Are you guys done for the season?" Levi asked.

"Yeah, my shoulder really screwed things up for us," Jack replied. "But the surgery worked, I feel great, and we'll be back full force next year. So, you two better watch out," Jack teased.

"Oh, we'll be watching for you," Dylan added.

Dylan leaned in to Jack, "Did I hear correctly? Are you and Beth expecting?"

Smiling, Jack answered, "Yes, we are. We are actually announcing it tonight to those who don't know yet. As you can see," Jack pointed to his wife, "it's getting kind of hard to hide it anymore."

Dylan and Levi both turned to look at Elizabeth, and getting their first view of her since arriving, they could see her belly as she rested her hand on it.

"Congratulations, Jack," Levi said, slapping Jack's knee. "That's really great."

Savannah was standing near Elizabeth, her eyes constantly glancing at her belly. Finally, she moved to stand in front of her aunt and laid her hands on Elizabeth's stomach. Elizabeth looked down, then met her niece's worried gaze.

"Are you pregnant?" Savannah asked.

Elizabeth gave her a small smile and nodded.

"But what about last time? I thought you weren't supposed to have any more."

Elizabeth drew in a deep breath; her shoulders rose and fell as the air went in and out. She lifted her hands and began. "You are correct. But we didn't plan this. It just happened even though it wasn't supposed to."

"But you could die," her niece signed, her eyes glistening with moisture.

"We are not going to think like that," Elizabeth said. "This baby is a gift from God. A blessing. We are happy."

Savannah nodded, but the worry did not leave her eyes.

Elizabeth took the young girl's hands and pressed them to her lips, kissing them. Releasing them, she began again. "The doctor is monitoring me and the baby very closely. And I am going to do everything that he tells me to do. Okay?"

Savannah nodded and added a small smile. "OK," she signed.

"You're going to have one more cousin."

That made Savannah smile for real, and she pressed her hands to her aunt's belly once more. She looked back at Elizabeth. "Congratulations," she signed, then hugged her.

"Thank you, S. We haven't explained things to the kids yet, so don't say anything to them, please."

Savannah smiled and nodded, then ran off to play with her cousins.

"What was that about?" Sam asked as she moved to Elizabeth's side.

"Savannah just noticed that I was pregnant and was worried."

"Oh, dear. We hadn't told them yet. I was going to talk to you first."

"That's fine. Our kids don't know yet, either. We're going to tell them just before the gender reveal, I think."

"That will be a fun conversation," Sam grinned.

"Oh, yes it will. I can't wait to see Jack's face when they start asking questions." The women began laughing and walked arm in arm to join Charlotte and the other women.

Blake was sitting on the ground at Jack's feet, as the men talked about rodeos. Dylan and Levi were asking Jack and Lee about their bull riding days, while the little boy listened to the tales. His eyes darted from man to man as they asked questions and his dad and uncle answered them, his mind was whirling hearing the details of some of Jack's rides.

Noticing this, Jack laid his hand on Blake's shoulder, getting his son's attention. "Everything okay?" Jack asked him.

"Yes. I just like hearing the stories."

Jack grinned and squeezed Blake's shoulder. "One day, maybe you'll have your own to tell."

Blake's eyes grew until they were the size of saucers, and the men began to laugh at the shocked expression on the little boy's face, as he came to the realization of what his daddy had just told him.

Colton, Austin, and Luke ran past them toward the playground, followed by Levi's boys, to join the girls that were already playing. Blake jumped to his feet and tore off behind them.

"You're going to have your hands full with that one," Dylan stated as the men watched the boys run across the lawn.

"Oh, don't I know," Jack laughed.

Once Abby and her boyfriend Tyler, Cat and her husband John, and a few other friends had arrived, Jack moved to stand beside Elizabeth and wrapped his arm around her waist. With the kids all playing on the playground, Jack thought this was the perfect time to get things started.

"Thank you for coming tonight, everyone. Before we eat, Beth and I have an announcement we'd like to share." He moved his hands to her stomach, pulling back on her shirt slightly and revealing it even more. "For those that haven't heard...or noticed yet...Beth and I are expecting another baby."

Cat and Abby that hadn't seen Elizabeth in months, both jumped to their feet and ran to their friend. A few other friends from school and the rodeo approached the couple, congratulating them and getting details of the due date.

Jack called all of the kids over and the group worked their way along the table filled with food. After everyone was finished eating, with a beer in one hand and his guitar in the other, Jack moved to the large logs that sat near the fire. Joined by Tom, Lance, and a few others, the men tuned their instruments, then began to play a few songs.

Couples danced, as did all of the children, while the night air was filled with music, rejoicing, and energy of friendship. Several songs in, as Sam stood behind Tom, watching him as he played the final chords of the current one, she looked over at Jack and Elizabeth, who were sitting together on the log.

"Hey, you two. Tom told me that you guys just wrote another song?"

"Yes," Jack replied, looking at Elizabeth. "We sure did."

"Can we hear it?" Charlotte asked.

Jack watched Elizabeth, waiting for her to respond. She looked at her husband and shrugged her shoulders. "What do you think?" she asked him.

"I'm game if you are."

"Oh, please, Beth," Sam begged. "Tom said it was amazing."

"Sure," Elizabeth finally said, followed by several people clapping with anticipation.

Jack and Tom lifted their guitars back to their laps, while the other guys lowered theirs, and the brothers began to play.

Everyone loved watching Tom and Jack perform together. They were always in sync with each other, and could always pick up on any song in perfect harmonies.

Jack began to sing the first verse, then Elizabeth joined in on her part. Their voices blended as if they'd sung together their whole lives.

(So Many Skies by Caroline Jones – altered to fit Jack & Elizabeth's story)

God I'm so lucky I've seen so many skies
Turning all shades of sunset and sunrise
I was looking for her
She was waiting for me
Living eight seconds, one bull at a time
Each lonely weekend, just chasing that prize
My dirt-driven blur
and her feet in the sea

Lived so much life before I fell in her arms
Spent years becoming the man that she'd need
Funny, now I feel like a boy, so disarmed
'Cause she's painted the world
But she thinks the world of me

God, I'm so lucky; I've seen so many skies
Paintbrush in my hands, stars in my eyes
I was painting my dreams
He was living his out

Used to dream all of my dreams on my own
I thought that was the only way I could feel free
But life has a richness now I've never known
'Cause he's won the world
And he thinks the world of me

Ooh, I've got nothing to prove now (I've got nothing to prove)
Ooh, I've got so much to lose now

God we're so lucky, we'll see so many skies
Every adventure with your hand in mine
No matter the weather
My partner for life

I no longer dream all my dreams on my own
It turns out there's more than one way to feel free
Life has a richness now we'd never known
'Cause he's won the world, and he thinks the world
Oh, she's painted the world, but she thinks the world
Yeah I'll tell the whole world that you mean the world to me

You mean the world to me

Applause filled the air as they finished the song. Charlotte approached them and knelt down, laying her hand on their knees.

"That was absolutely beautiful, you two."

"Thanks, Ma."

"Seriously, you guys, where do you come up with this stuff?"

"Jack actually started it," Elizabeth said, praising her husband. "I just helped a little on my parts."

"She helped a lot with the lyrics," Jack added.

Charlotte patted their legs then stood, "Well, it was just beautiful. So beautiful."

Others approached the couple, talking to them about the song, letting them know how great it was. As things settled back down, Tom began to play another song, and all of the guys joined in. The dancing and conversations resumed, while the kids climbed and played all over the huge playground in the backyard.

As the night drew on, the food was cleaned up and put away, the younger children had been put down to sleep, the older kids were watching a movie in the basement, and the adults sat around the fire, listening to music, drinking beer, and visiting. Jack had set his guitar to the side and taken Elizabeth out to dance. The couple was chest to chest, hand in hand, and cheek to cheek as they slowly moved to the melody. Charlotte held Stetson as Rosemary and Lee joined the couples. Lee drew Rosemary in close to him as they leisurely swayed back and forth.

Sam crossed the patio, taking the baby from Charlotte, and told the couple to go join the others. Without argument, Frank stood and took his wife's hand, leading her to the grassy lawn. He spun her out, then pulled her back into him, her laughter filled the night as he caught her against his body, pressing his palm into the small of her back. Charlotte nuzzled her face into Frank's neck as the couple, like the others, moved slowly to the music, simply enjoying each other's closeness and touch.

…..

October 16th, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Jack woke up in the middle of the night in a cold sweat once more. The nightmares were becoming more frequent, causing Jack to miss out on much needed sleep. He eased out of the bed and left the bedroom, quietly closing the door behind him.

He sat at the island, a cup of hot tea in his hand, staring at the steam that slowly rose into the air. He looked at the clock again: 3:02 am. An hour had passed since he left the bedroom, sleep feeling as far away as a foreign land. He picked up his mug and went to his office to fill his mind with work instead of images of blood.

…..

Elizabeth rolled over and stared at the clock. 5:16 am. "Ugh. Why am I awake so early?" she asked herself out loud. She rolled over, expecting to feel the warmth of Jack's body but the sheets were cold. She quickly sat up and looked around the room, but she was alone.

Elizabeth got out of bed, made a quick trip to the bathroom, then grabbed her robe. She checked the living room, kitchen, and basement, but could not find Jack. After checking on the children and seeing that they were all still sound asleep, Elizabeth walked outside. Wyatt was lying on the porch, signaling to Elizabeth that Jack was not in the barn. She looked up at his office window, and could faintly see the light on against the dimly lit dawn sky.

The office door was open and Elizabeth stepped inside. Jack was not at his desk, but as she began to turn to leave, she noticed him lying on the couch with a blanket pulled over him. She crossed the room, knelt beside him, and gently laid her hand on his shoulder.

"Jack?" she said, barely above a whisper.

Jack grumbled something and tried to roll over, almost falling off the couch. Catching himself, he sat up and looked around the room, trying to find his bearings.

"Beth, is everything alright?" he asked, laying his hand on her cheek.

Elizabeth stood and looked down at him. "No."

Jack jumped to his feet and took hold of her arms. "What's wrong? Are you okay?"

"I'm fine. Except for the fact that my husband would rather sleep on his couch in his office than with his wife."

Jack dropped back down onto the couch, relief flooding through him that Elizabeth was alright. "I didn't want to wake you with my tossing and turning."

Elizabeth sat down next to him. "What's wrong? Are you sick?"

"No," Jack replied, shaking his head. "Just couldn't sleep."

"Are you still having that nightmare?"

Jack leaned back into the cushion and crossed his arms. "Yes," he answered. "A few times a week now."

"Jack," Elizabeth said, worry covering her voice. She laid her hand on his knee. "Why didn't you tell me it was getting that bad?"

"What good would it do?" he asked, looking at her. "They will end once the baby is here and you're fine."

"You can't go that long without decent sleep."

"I'll be fine. Really," he said in his most convincing voice. He leaned forward and kissed her, then sat back with a smile. "I'll be fine."

Elizabeth was not convinced, but she knew not to push him further. She knew he would talk when he was ready, and hoped that time would be soon. But in reality, what could she say to help him? This stemmed from a horrific scene that he'd walked into, one that she herself probably wouldn't be able to get out of her mind.

She laid her hand on her stomach as she leaned back against the cushion. Jack looked at his wife, and seeing the sadness in her eyes, he leaned toward her and covered her hand that rested on her belly. He laid down with his head on her stomach and closed his eyes. Elizabeth laid her free hand on his shoulder and watched Jack as he brushed his thumb back and forth along the top of her baby bump.

….

That afternoon, when Jack came inside from working with a young horse, he found Elizabeth sitting at the dining room table. Her Bible was laying open in front of her, her head was bowed, and her hands were clasped together on her lap. Jack stopped, not wanting to interrupt her. The sunlight was beaming in through the large windows, almost illuminating her – Jack thought she looked like an angel. He could hear the kids playing upstairs, as their laughter emanated through the house.

He waited, thinking she was having a conversation with God, when he noticed her shoulders shaking. He rushed to her side and knelt, laying his hand on her arm. Her cheeks were wet, her eyes red and swollen, as her gaze shifted to his face.

"What's wrong, Beth? Is something wrong with the baby?"

She cupped his face in her hands and grinned, shaking her head. "I've been praying for you."

Jack's heart stopped and his breath caught in his throat. He swallowed hard and forced the air back into his lungs. "For me? About what?"

"Your nightmares. Your fears. I want you to have peace to enjoy this pregnancy with me. I want us both to have peace about this baby. I want to be able to enjoy and relish the excitement of being parents to another child." Elizabeth laid a hand on her stomach, "This baby is nothing but a blessing. A blessing that we never thought we'd experience again."

Jack stood, pulling Elizabeth to her feet in front of him, and pulled her into a hug. "I'm so sorry that I'm ruining this for you."

Elizabeth pushed him back. "You aren't ruining it, Jack. I'm just worried about you. I honestly thought you were past the dreams since you've been so...so...intimate with me."

Jack stepped back and held Elizabeth's arms; his gaze locked with hers. Elizabeth could see on his face that he wanted to say something, but was holding back.

"What is it, Jack? Please, talk to me," she pleaded.

Jack sat down as Elizabeth lowered back into her chair. He laid his hand on the table, palm up, and Elizabeth placed her hand in his.

"Beth, I decided a while back to live life with you."

"Okay?" Elizabeth said with confusion.

"What I mean is...we just don't know how many days we have left together. So, I decided to live them with you, no holds barred, in case it's the last time...," Jack's voice trailed off, unable to complete the sentence.

"In case it's the last time we're together," Elizabeth finished for him.

"Yes."

They sat in silence for a brief moment, while Elizabeth absorbed Jack's words, and Jack waited for her to do so.

"I don't want to deny you anything," Jack added. "I love you. I want you to be happy."

Elizabeth leaned forward and took a tight hold of Jack's hand. "Cowboy, I am happiest when you're happy with me."

Jack's gaze lifted from the table to his wife's face, locking eyes with hers. "I'm trying to be."

"You've been putting on a good act, because I thought everything was fine now," she said softly, her voice filled with concern.

"It's not an act. I honestly am happy about this baby." Jack moved his free hand, covering their hands that were locked together. "I am happy," he said again, giving her a genuine smile. "It's just my mind at night I can't control."

"Pray with me, please."

Jack nodded and bowed his head, keeping a tight grasp on his wife's hand. The couple prayed together: for their family, their children, the baby, Elizabeth's health, and peace for Jack. When they finished, Jack felt as if a weight had been lifted from his shoulders. He felt the most at peace since they'd heard about the pregnancy.

Elizabeth looked into her husband's eyes and could see this. She saw a tranquility in them that wasn't there before, not since they received the news. Jack fell to his knees in front of Elizabeth and wrapped his arms around her, his cheek resting against her stomach. Elizabeth held him with one arm, as her other hand moved into his hair, clutching him against her.

Jack embracing her in this manner reminded Elizabeth of the moment she'd fallen in love with him on the front porch. He had fallen to his knees, begging for forgiveness. Then again with the news of Becky. The vulnerability that Jack exhibited with Elizabeth always tore at her heart. His love for her ran deep, and she knew it.

Blake walked into the room, and seeing his parents this way, he froze and stared at them.

"What's wrong?" he asked, having become accustomed to receiving bad news.

Jack straightened and looked at his son. He held his arm out, motioning for the little boy to come join them.

"Nothing is wrong. I was just hugging Mommy."

Relief flooded Blake's expression and he wrapped his arm around Elizabeth's shoulders. "Then I want to hug Mommy, too."

…..

That evening, Jack slept through the night: his only dream that involved Elizabeth, was him crossing the room to her, where she was waiting for him, wearing only a long, sheer white gown.

…..

October 22nd, 2014 – Primrose OB/GYN

"Well, it looks like I was correct at the last ultrasound," Dr. Shepherd said as he pointed at the screen.

"Oh, Jack," Elizabeth said, smiling at her husband.

Jack wiped the tear from his cheek with one hand, while squeezing Elizabeth's hand with the other. The couple watched the screen, while the doctor took more measurements, and pointed out the different parts of the baby. He confirmed that Elizabeth was almost seventeen weeks along, confirmed the due date, and informed them that everything looked perfect.

With the visit over and the latest printout in hand, Jack and Elizabeth left the office, over the moon with their news. As they stood next to the Yukon, Jack hugged his wife tightly, and they took a quiet minute to enjoy the moment.

…..

October 23rd, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch

"Thank you for watching the kids," Elizabeth said as Jack helped Frank load them into Charlotte's SUV.

"Absolutely," Charlotte said as she hugged her daughter-in-law. "Any excuse to get these angels for a night or two...I'm all in."

"You might think differently by the morning," Elizabeth said, keeping an arm around Charlotte's waist. "The twins are definitely beyond their terrible twos right now, and straight into the torturous threes."

"They can't be any worse than Jack was," Charlotte stated.

"Oh, really? Jack was a difficult child?"

"Not normally. But, boy, from two and a half to three and a half, he was an impossible handful. He got into e...very...thing."

…..

February 15th, 1983 – Thornton Ranch

Charlotte was sitting in the rocking chair nursing Tom when Thomas came running into the room.

"Have you seen Jack?" he asked, frantically.

"No. I thought he was with you," Charlotte said, moving Tom to her shoulder and pulling her shirt down.

"He was. Then I was in the fridge putting the food away and when I turned around, he was gone. I can't find him anywhere."

The couple quickly moved through the house, checking every room, every closet, every cupboard, unable to find their son. As Charlotte passed by the front door, she noticed it was open slightly.

"Oh, my goodness. Thomas!"

Thomas ran to her side and saw what she was looking at. Without a word, he grabbed his coat and ran out the door onto the porch. Seeing his son's tracks in the fresh snow, Thomas followed them to the barn, where he found Jack, wearing only a onesie and socks, curled up next to his pony that was lying in its stall.

Thomas scooped the shaking boy into his arms, wrapped his coat around him, and ran to the house. He sat in front of the fire, rubbing the little boy's arms, trying to warm him quickly.

Then Jack opened his eyes and looked at his father and grinned. "I nap with Poco."

Unable to hide his amusement, Thomas shook his head and chuckled. "You sure did, Son."

…..

October 23rd, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch

"Oh my gosh. I would have panicked," Elizabeth said when Charlotte finished her story.

"And that was nothing compared to the tantrums that he'd throw. He was so jealous of Tom when he was first born. And remained that way for the first year of his brother's life. As soon as Tom was able to play with Jack more, Jack realized that having a brother was actually pretty cool. Then they were inseparable."

The women were laughing as Jack approached them. "What's so funny?"

"Not a fan of having a brother at first, huh?" Elizabeth asked with a wink.

"Ma, stop sharing stories that make me sound bad," Jack said as he moved his arm around his wife. "I don't need any help in that department."

Charlotte hugged her son, then started toward the vehicle. "Beth thinks the world of you and nothing will change that." As she opened her door and began to get inside, she stopped at looked back at the young couple. "You even wrote a song about it. Remember?" she asked, smiling, then got into the SUV.

Jack stood behind Elizabeth, his arms wrapped around her across her chest, as they watched Frank and Charlotte drive away with their kids and Wyatt.

"Ready to go, Beautiful?"

"Ready, Cowboy."

"Happy Anniversary, wife," he said, kissing her cheek.

Elizabeth turned in his arms, moving hers around his waist, and kissed him. "Happy Anniversary, husband. We made it to five years."

"Five...wonderful...years," he said, kissing her between each word. "And three and a half kids."

Elizabeth laughed at her husband's silliness and the couple walked hand in hand to the Yukon. Jack held the door open for her as Elizabeth sat inside, then he closed it once she was in her seat.

With their luggage already loaded, Jack backed the vehicle out of the garage and started down the driveway. He held his hand out, and Elizabeth placed her hand in his, as they drove down the highway toward the Lake of the Ozarks.

…..

"Where did you make the reservations?" Jack asked as they neared the town.

"The Lodge of Four Seasons."

"Sounds like a nice place," Jack replied as he turned onto the off ramp.

"It looked nice online. So, hopefully it is." Elizabeth pulled up the directions on her phone and read them to Jack as they neared their destination.

"Wow, this place is nice," Jack stated when they pulled into the drive of the lodge.

"It's beautiful."

…..

Jack opened the room to their suite, their luggage in hand, and waited for Elizabeth to enter. Following behind her, they got their first look at their room. The large open suite included a full kitchen, a sitting area in front of a fireplace, a living area with flat screen TV, and a dining table next to a wall of windows that opened up to the veranda. Jack carried the bags into the bedroom that housed a king-sized bed, as Elizabeth ventured into the bathroom.

"Jack, take a look at this," she called out.

Jack joined her and looked down at the large jetted tub that was in a private room off the main bathroom.

He moved his arms around her and held her. "We will have to try this out later," he said, then kissed the side of her neck.

"Most definitely."

"So, what do you want to do first?"

Elizabeth turned around to face Jack and laid her arms across his shoulders. "I want to stay right here, in this suite, just the two of us."

"Sounds good to me," Jack said as he moved his hands to the buttons of her blouse.

…..

October 24th, 2014 – The Lodge of Four Seasons

Jack returned to the bedroom after starting a pot of coffee. He leaned in the doorway and stared at his wife. She was still naked from the evening before, the white sheets of the bed covering her from her waist down. She was partially on her stomach, her legs off to the side to take the pressure off the baby.

After watching her sleep for a few minutes, Jack returned to the kitchen and poured a cup of coffee. Taking it to the living room, he turned the TV on, keeping the volume down low, and watched the morning news.

When the news was over, Jack turned the television off and stepped onto the veranda. He leaned against the railing, sipping what was left of his coffee, and watched a few kids playing in a pool. When his coffee cup was empty, Jack set it in the sink, and went to check on Elizabeth.

The bed was empty, and Jack could hear water running from the next room. He walked in, and found Elizabeth sitting on the edge of the large tub, wearing one of his long sleeve button-up shirts, and nothing else. The shirt was opened, just falling across her breasts, her legs were crossed, and she was running her fingers along the surface of the water.

She flashed Jack a smile as he entered the room, then stood once he reached her.

"Good morning, Husband," she said, grabbing the front of his lounge pants and pulling him closer. "Happy Anniversary."

"Good morning, beautiful Wife," he responded, kissing her cheek and neck. "Happy Anniversary." Jack stepped to the side and looked down into the tub. "What do you have planned this morning?"

"Well, I thought I would take a long soak in this very large tub."

"Oh, really?"

"Yes, but I might get lonely." She grinned and batted her eyes at him.

"Well, we can't have that, now, can we?"

…..

The day was spent exploring the grounds of the lodge. They took a stroll through the beautiful garden, walked along the edge of the golf course, and Elizabeth relaxed in a chair, reading a book while Jack took a swim in the magnificent outdoor pool.

Elizabeth absentmindedly turned the page to the novel in her hand, but her eyes were locked on her husband. Jack was walking along the pool to the deep end, stood at the edge, and did a perfect dive into the water. When he came up to the surface and turned to face his wife, he caught her still staring at him.

Elizabeth could see every muscle flex in Jack's back as he swam toward the edge closest to her. When he reached it, he pressed his palms onto the concrete, and pushed up, lifting himself out of the water. Her eyes were locked on him as he crossed the deck to her, water dripping from his body, his tanned skin glistened in the sun, his silly smirk pulled his dimples in deep.

Jack picked up a towel then sat down in the chair next to Elizabeth and leaned toward her. "Do we need to go back to our room, Mrs. Thornton?"

Elizabeth, whose eyes had never left him, stood and took her husband's hand. "Yep."

…..

Jack waited by the door, looking at his watch one more time. "We're going to miss our reservation."

"Almost ready," she called out.

Jack was wearing a new brown and black plaid flannel shirt with his brown cowboy hat, and paced for several more minutes, checking his watch every two or three. "We only have five minutes to..." His voice trailed off as he spun around and got his first look at his wife. "Holy crap. Worth the wait," he said, crossing the room to her, smiling ear to ear.

"Thank you," she replied, giving him a twirl. "Shall we go?"

"Just hold on," he said, taking her hand and spinning her again. "You look amazing."

Elizabeth was wearing a fitted black dress that fell above her knees, with a ruffled, off the shoulder top. She was wearing her nude-colored high heels, that brought her closer to Jack's height, and her long, brown hair was down, cascading across her shoulder, with the perfect amount of curl to it.

He carefully combed his fingers through the ends of her hair, then cupped her face in his hands and kissed her. "We might miss our reservation," Jack whispered as he kissed her neck.

Elizabeth had tipped her head back, inviting him in, and he worked his way up to her ear. A quiet moan escaped her lips, and Jack quickly stepped back, adjusting the front of his jeans.

"We really need to get going or we won't get in."

Letting out a sigh, she replied, "Oh, all right."

When they reached the door, Jack laid his hand on the knob, then pulled her closer to him with his free hand. "But we will finish this when we get back," he said softly, before kissing her once more.

…..

October 25th, 2014 – The Lodge of Four Seasons

Elizabeth woke with Jack's hand resting on her stomach, and looked over her shoulder to find him fast asleep. She carefully scooted back, closing the very small gap that was between them, then closed her eyes.

An hour later, Elizabeth woke once more, Jack's hand still on her stomach, but this time when she looked back, she found him awake and smiling at her.

"Good morning, Beautiful."

Elizabeth rolled over to face her husband, and laid her hand on his cheek. "Good morning, Cowboy."

"Are you ready to get home and see our babies?" he asked, flicking her hair off her shoulder.

"Yes. I miss them."

"Me, too." Jack rolled onto his back and pulled Elizabeth against his side. "This was a perfect anniversary though," he said, turning his head toward her and kissing her forehead. "But I'm ready to get home."

"Then let's go now." Elizabeth propped herself up on her elbows and looked down at her husband. "But yes, this has been perfect." She lowered until their lips met, and kissed him with a gentle passion.

They showered, dressed and packed, and within an hour of waking, they were checking out and walking to the Yukon.

Two hours later, when they arrived home, Charlotte was on the porch with three very excited children. All of which ran into the arms of their waiting parents when they stepped out of the vehicle.

…..

Jack called the kids into the living room where Elizabeth was sitting on the couch, waiting for them. Jack took his seat next to his wife and directed the children to sit on the ottoman in front of them.

Peyton, Colton and Blake sat shoulder to shoulder, doing as they were told, waiting quietly for their parents to speak.

"Kids," Elizabeth began, "we have some exciting news to share with you."

"We're getting a puppy?" Peyton asked loudly.

"No, we ar..."

"Are we getting more ponies?" Colton blurted out next.

Chuckling, Elizabeth shook her head. "No, we're no..."

"Are we going on a trip?" Blake asked.

"Kids," Jack said firmly, trying to hide his laughter. "Let your mother talk."

"Yes, Sir," they said in unison.

"We are having a baby."

Jack and Elizabeth remained quiet as the kids looked at each other, trying to figure things out.

"A baby what?" Colton finally asked.

Unable to hold back, Jack let out a loud laugh, then silenced himself.

"A baby. A baby sister or a baby brother."

"I want a sister!" Peyton shouted.

"No, I want a brother," Colton exclaimed.

"Kids," Elizabeth said, holding her hands up, "we can't pick if it's a boy or a girl. God chooses."

"How does God choose? Where's the baby?" Blake added.

Jack laid his hand on Elizabeth's stomach. "The baby is in a special place called a womb, inside Mommy."

All three kids stared, eyes wide, at their mother's stomach, and Jack waited for the question that he knew was coming.

"How did the baby get in there?" Peyton asked.

"God put the baby there," Elizabeth answered.

"Why?" Colton asked.

"Because when God puts the baby in there, it is very, very small. The baby needs to grow and get big and strong before it can come out and meet everyone."

"So, the baby is growing now?" Blake asked.

"Yes," Elizabeth answered.

"How do you get it out?" Colton asked.

"When the baby is big enough, Mommy and I will go to the hospital and a doctor will help take it out."

"Do you have a baby inside you?" Blake asked Jack.

Chuckling, Jack answered, "No. Only mommies can have babies."

"When will it be big enough?" Blake asked.

"In a few more months," Elizabeth answered.

"We have to wait until the doctor takes the baby out to know if it's a boy or girl?" Blake asked.

"Well, Daddy and I actually already know. The doctor told us."

"Tell us! Tell us!" Peyton shouted.

"All of our family and friends are coming over today so that we can tell all of you at the same time."

"Really?" Colton asked. "Austin is coming over?"

"Yes," Elizabeth laughed, "Austin will be here, too."

"So, when everyone gets here, you're going to tell us if it's a boy or girl?" Blake asked.

"We are going to do something really fun. But we can't tell you what it is, it's a surprise."

"I want surprise," Peyton shouted, bouncing up and down on her seat.

"Well, everyone will see the surprise at the same time, Pey," Jack started. "But when it happens, you will either see a lot of pink or a lot of blue."

"Pink for girl?" Peyton asked loudly.

"That's right, Pey. Pink for girl," Jack replied.

"Blue for boy?" Colton asked.

"Yes, Colt. If you see blue, that means it's a boy."

"I hope I see blue," Colton said.

"No! Pink. I want a sister. You have a brother."

"I have a sister, too," Colton added, frowning at Peyton.

Stifling a laugh, Jack leaned forward and rested his arms on his thighs. "Alright, you two. We will all be happy no matter what the baby is. Right?"

"Yes, Daddy," they replied.

"Daddy?" Peyton asked.

"Yes, Pey."

"If it's a girl, can I name her Penelope?"

"Mommy and I will name the baby. Just like we named you," Jack said, swiping his finger across her nose.

"Okay," she replied, then leaned forward into Jack's arms.

Jack pulled his daughter onto his lap and turned her to face the boys.

"Well, what do you all think about this news?" Elizabeth asked.

"I think it's neato," Blake answered.

"Colt?" Jack asked.

"Yeah, if it's a boy."

"Colton Thomas," Jack said, frowning at his son. "Remember what I said? Happy no matter what."

"Yes, sir."

"I don't want another brother," Peyton said, sticking out her bottom lip.

"Peyton Grace, same goes for you. Happy no matter what," Elizabeth responded this time. "Babies are a gift from God. He has trusted us to take care of each of you, and now He is trusting us to take care of this new baby. You are each a blessing, and so is this new one, no matter if he's a boy or she's a girl."

"Okay, Mommy," Peyton replied.

"Okay, Mommy," Colton added.

"I'm a blessing, too?" Blake asked. "God didn't give me to you."

"Come here, Blake," Elizabeth said, motioning for the little boy to move to her lap. "God did give you to us. He gave you to your mommy first. She really needed you to be with her. Then, your mommy brought you here to meet your daddy. God knew you would be safe with us. He wanted you with us. He blessed us with you just as He blessed us with Peyton and Colton. And now this baby," Elizabeth said as she laid her hand on her stomach.

"Okay," Blake said, looking down at Elizabeth's hand. "Can I touch the baby?"

"Of course," she replied, taking her son's hand and laying it on her belly.

"I don't feel anything."

"We will in time. Right now, the baby is too small. When he or she gets a little bigger, then we'll be able to feel it move."

"Really?" Blake asked, his eyes wide. "That will be cool."

"Daddy needs to go get ready for the surprise, and everyone will be arriving soon. Let's go wait on the front porch."

"Okay," they all shouted, then Peyton, Colton and Blake ran out the front door, closely followed by Wyatt, and began playing in the lawn beside the house, while Elizabeth watched from a chair.

…..

Their family and friends were gathered outside near the arena. Excitement filled the air like an energy as everyone waited to find out what gender Jack and Elizabeth's baby was.

"Why are we out here?" Charlotte asked, looking around for a large box, or balloons, or something that might explode in pink or blue.

"Well, in true Jack fashion," Elizabeth started, "we have...a fun way...of doing our gender reveal." Elizabeth said, grinning and watching everyone's expressions.

"Out here?" Charlotte asked, still confused as to how this was going to play out.

A commotion came from the chute at the end of the arena, and everyone turned to find Jack and Lee leaning over the gate, but couldn't see what they were doing.

"What's going on?" Frank asked.

"You'll see," she grinned. Elizabeth waited for Jack to give her the signal, and once she saw his head nod, she turned back to the family. "Everyone, please turn your attention to the chute."

A tarp was covering the gate, so no one had been able to see what was inside. But as Lee stepped back, holding the gate rope, Jack remained over the chute, another strap in his hands. The gate was pulled open, Jack jerked hard on his rope, tightening the flank strap, and a large bull burst out of the chute and began bucking.

Ooos and Ahhhs resonated from the kids as they watched wide-eyed, as well as most of the adults. And on the second buck, a box that was strapped on the bull's back where a rider would be, broke open and pink powder filled the air and covered the back of the bull.

"It's a girl!" Charlotte shouted; her excitement shown across her face.

"Yay!" Peyton yelled, dancing up and down. "A sister! A sister! A sister!"

"I don't want another sister!" Colton said loudly, followed by everyone's laughter.

Elizabeth moved toward Colton and knelt in front of her son. "Remember what we talked about earlier?"

"Yes, Mommy," he answered, his eyes down and his voice low.

"So...what are we going to say then?" Elizabeth asked him.

"I get another sister?" Colt said, his voice raising at the end like a question, a forced smile on his face.

"We'll work on that," Elizabeth chuckled as she stood and laid her hand on Colton's shoulder.

Everyone engulfed Elizabeth. Congratulating her, asking if they had a name picked out, how excited they were, along with a battery of other questions.

"We are still discussing names. But when we do settle on one, it will be revealed at her birth."

"Oh, come on!" Rosemary exclaimed. "Making me wait again?"

"We had to wait on yours, too," Elizabeth reminded her friend.

"Yes, but so did we," Rosemary shot back with a crooked grin.

All of their friends that had been at the last potluck had joined them for the reveal. Jack was with the group now, after he and Lee got the bull back in a small pen, pink powder covered one of his legs.

"Is that your bull?" Lance asked.

"No. A friend of mine brought him over earlier. He'll be by tomorrow to pick him up."

"That was awesome, Jack," Levi stated. "Wouldn't expect anything different from you," he teased, slapping his friend on the back.

The group moved to the house where Elizabeth had tea and water waiting for everyone. Jack carried a large cooler out that was filled with beers and sodas, and set it next to the island near the adults.

Their house was full, just as Jack and Elizabeth loved it. Family and friends mixing and mingling, getting to know those they didn't already. Stories were shared, future plans were discussed and celebrated, and a hopeful energy filled the house.

Several kids ran through the kitchen, chased by Wyatt, and out the back door onto the deck. Laughter, conversations, and the occasional exclamation resonated throughout the house.

Jack walked into the kitchen to find his wife. Elizabeth was standing in front of the sink, leaning back against the counter, watching her family and friends enjoying themselves. Jack moved behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist and rested his hands on her stomach. He kissed her neck, then rested his chin on her shoulder, and the pair watched as Charlotte, Sam, Abby and Michelle listened to Rosemary share the latest silly antics of her daughters.