Let's get a sound off! Who's still here? I see a lot of "views" but not a lot of "reviews." :) Glad you're all here reading, but would love to hear from you!

I keep trying to stay away from these for the time being...but I just can't help myself...and neither can Jack and Elizabeth. There's a mild steam alert in this one. As well as a couple tissue warnings. Fasten your seat belts for an emotional roller coaster: laughter, steam, tears, more steam, more laughter, more tears.

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


February 17th, 2015 – Primrose OB/GYN

"It feels so great to get out of the house," Elizabeth said as Jack helped her out of the Yukon. She breathed a deep breath of fresh air as she slid her hand into his.

Once inside, they were led to their room. Elizabeth lay on the table with Jack by her side, and they waited for the doctor.

"This is most likely our last visit here, you know," Elizabeth said as she traced circles on Jack's palm.

"What? Really?" Jack thought about it for a moment, and then the reality of the closeness of their due date set in. "Oh, my gosh. You're right."

"Are you ready?" she asked as she interlaced her fingers with his.

Jack lifted her hand to his lips and kissed each knuckle. "I am so ready," he replied with a smile.

After a knock on the door, the doctor stepped into the room. "So, how's bed rest going?" he asked as he took a seat.

"Torture," Elizabeth answered with a grin.

"I can only imagine. Not much longer now." Dr. Shepherd picked up the tube of gel and reached over Elizabeth's stomach. "Let's take one last peek at your little girl and see how everything looks."

…..

Jack hurried outside, jumped into the SUV, and pulled around to the front of the clinic to pick up Elizabeth. With it in park, he ran around the front of the vehicle and met his wife at the passenger door, opening it for her.

"Are you alright?" Jack asked her once she was in her seat.

"Yes," she answered.

Jack closed the door as she buckled her seatbelt, then she sat quietly in her seat, staring straight ahead.

Halfway home, Jack couldn't take the silence any longer. "Beth, what's wrong? And please don't tell me it's nothing."

"I just wanted one, normal, natural birth."

"This will be natural."

"They are going to induce me. I wanted to experience what it was like to go into labor. To be surprised and to rush to the hospital while the baby was coming."

"Oh, Beth. I'm so sorry. I didn't realize that part meant so much to you."

Elizabeth shook her head and looked down at her hands resting on her belly. "I'm just being silly. We need to do whatever is safest for our daughter."

Jack reached across the car and took her hand in his. "Elizabeth, your feelings are not silly. I understand what you're saying and feel the same way."

Elizabeth looked at her husband. "Really?"

"Of course. We have three kids, and I haven't witnessed a single one being born. I haven't been able to hold your hand and support you. I missed their first breath of air...just like you. So, I understand. But we will be able to have all of that this time. They are inducing you in hopes to make certain of that."

"I know, Jack. I was just hoping I would be allowed to go until she decided to come on her own," she said as she rubbed her tummy.

"I know, Baby."

Jack turned the Yukon into the driveway and followed it around to the house. He stopped the vehicle at the bottom of the stairs, got out, and helped Elizabeth into the house.

"Elizabeth, how did it go?" Charlotte asked, meeting the couple at the door. "Oh, what's wrong?" she asked after seeing Elizabeth's face. "Is the baby alright?"

"Yes, Ma. Everything is fine. They want to induce Beth a week before her due date just to be safe."

"Oh, and this is bad news?" Charlotte asked her daughter-in-law.

"I just wanted to experience one normal birth. No intervention, no issues, just a happy, healthy baby."

Charlotte gently laid her hands on Elizabeth's shoulders and waited until her daughter-in-law looked her in the eyes. "Beth, you will be experiencing a natural birth. You will feel the pain, the anxiety, the excitement, and the love that it all entails. You will see your daughter enter this world and take her first breath. You'll hear her first cries. You'll feed her her first meal. The only difference will be it will begin in the hospital, where you'll have the safety of doctors surrounding you, instead of in your home with the unknown surrounding you."

"You're right," Elizabeth said, letting out a hard breath. "You're right. I don't know why this bothered me so much. I guess because I wasn't expecting it. The doctor had never mentioned it before."

"Of course, Dear. You were caught off guard, and it's totally understandable. But trust me, please, you will experience everything else, and your heart will overflow with love when you see her face for the first time. Now, let's get you back in bed to help the doctor make sure that all happens," Charlotte stated, taking Elizabeth's arm and guiding her toward the stairs.

…..

"Thanks, Ma," Jack said as he opened the front door. "I hope the kids behaved."

"They are always angels, Son." Charlotte hugged him, then started out the door. Turning around, she added, "Beth will be okay. Just let her get over this bit of shocking news. The more she thinks about it, the more she'll come to terms and realize that everything will be just fine."

"Okay, Ma. Thanks."

Jack watched Charlotte until she was in her vehicle, then he closed the door and ran up the steps. He checked on the kids, spent a little time with them playing with their toys, then checked on Elizabeth. She was on her side, curled into the body pillow, and sound asleep. Jack let her be and returned to the kids to play a little more.

…..

Jack eased into the bedroom in case Elizabeth was still asleep, but she was sitting up with her sketchbook and pencil in hand. He moved onto the bed, trying not to disrupt her drawing.

"Who is that?" he asked.

"This is what I imagine our baby girl will look like," she answered, holding the sketchbook up.

"She's beautiful, and that is amazing." Jack took the drawing and looked at it closer. A baby wrapped in a blanket and a flower tucked behind her ear was perfectly sketched onto the rough paper. Jack felt as if he was looking at a photograph. "No matter how many paintings or drawings I see you do, your talent always blows me away." Jack flipped the page and found another drawing, this one of Peyton when she was a baby. "Oh, it's Pey," he said as he held it closer. "This is just amazing."

"Thank you, Jack."

He handed the sketchbook back to his wife, then leaned back onto his pillow. "The kids will be in here shortly: as soon as they clean up their toys."

"Oh, good. I want to spend some time with them."

"They do, too. They miss playing with you."

Just as Jack spoke, all three children came running into the room and jumped onto the bed.

"Your toys are cleaned up already?"

"Yes, we wanted to see Mommy," Colton replied.

"Peyton? Your room was pretty bad. Are you sure it's all clean?"

"Blakey helped me," she answered with a grin.

"We wanted to hurry, so I helped her," Blake offered.

"That was very nice of you, Blake," Elizabeth stated as she pulled him beside her.

"Can I feel the baby?" he asked, staring at her huge belly.

"Of course." Elizabeth lifted her shirt, took his hand, and laid it on her right side where the baby's foot was pushing.

"That's so weird," Blake laughed as his baby sister kicked him.

"I wanna feel," Colton shouted, jumping to the other side of Elizabeth.

"Colt, be careful around Mommy."

"Okay, Daddy," he answered, then laid his head on his mommy's stomach. "She kicked me!" he hollered with a laugh.

"I want to feel my sister," Peyton said.

"There's room for you, too," Jack said. He slid off the bed, picked up his daughter, and sat her between Elizabeth's legs.

All three kids surrounded her tummy as Elizabeth watched them, a huge smile covering her face. The children's eyes were wide with wonder as they followed the baby's movement. Beginning on the right, a bulge migrated across Elizabeth's lower abdomen as the baby turned in the womb. Little hands followed every motion, filling the room with high-pitched laughter.

Jack laid beside Elizabeth, and the couple watched their three children revel over the mystery of their fourth. They pointed, poked, and gently pressed each time they saw her skin move. At one point, all three of them pressed their mouths to her belly and talked to their sister, letting her know all about the farm.

Wyatt jumped onto the bed, not wanting to be left out, and leaned into Jack's side, joining his owners in watching his young people.

…..

February 20th, 2015 – Hope Meadows Ranch

"Rosie, what are you doing here? It's Lee's birthday. You should be with him."

Rosemary carefully laid the sleeping Stetson on the bed, then sat between her baby and her best friend. "Lee is out working with your husband. They are behind on their training, so they are making a day of it. We have plans for tonight, though."

"Oh, I'm so sorry. They are behind because of me, and he shouldn't be doing all of that extra work on his birthday."

"Liz, they are not behind because of you. They are behind because of doctors touching them in their special places."

Not expecting that comment, Elizabeth erupted into laughter. "Rosie!"

"Well, it's true," she winked.

"So, I hear that Lee didn't handle the procedure well."

"Liz, that man is so stubborn and was driving me crazy. I begged him to ice himself, but he couldn't handle the cold. I even tried sneaking a bag of peas down his pants once while he was sleeping, and as soon as they touched his junk, he came unglued and almost fell right off the couch."

Still laughing, Elizabeth gripped Rosemary's hand while she spoke. "That would have been hilarious to see."

"It's funny now that it's over. But girl, when men are in pain, you'd think their world was ending."

"I guess I am very fortunate with Jack. He hides his pain like no one I've ever seen."

"Yes, you are very lucky in that sense. But on the other hand, he pays for it in the long run because he hides it so well."

"That's true. After his shoulder incident, I now know that if he's showing signs of pain, it must be really bad."

"Men," Rosie said, shaking her head. "Can't live with them..."

"Can't live without them," Elizabeth finished.

The two women fell into each other's arms, laughing, causing Stetson to wake up.

"Please hand me my nephew," Elizabeth said with her arms out.

Rosemary picked up her son and placed him in Elizabeth's arms. Elizabeth leaned back against her stack of pillows, shifted the baby boy to rest on her chest above her breasts, and began to softly talk to him. Stetson stared at Elizabeth, his eyes huge, as his lips curled up into the cutest grin.

"You are so handsome, little man." She touched her knuckle to his cheek, and Stetson instinctively twisted his mouth in search of food. "Are you hungry, Stetson?"

"That boy is always hungry, just like his father."

"Ah, like father, like son."

"Yes, I'm sure Stets will be Lee's little mini-me when he gets older."

"Jack has a couple of those," Elizabeth smiled.

"How's Blake doing?"

"He's amazing. He takes his role as big brother very seriously."

"I can see that. He's a great little boy."

"He sure is."

The women visited for a short while until the children came in begging for a snack. Rosemary left Stetson with Elizabeth while she went downstairs to fix them something. As Elizabeth quietly spoke to the baby, Jack stepped in the check on her. Having not been seen, he leaned in the doorway and watched his wife interact with the little boy.

When Elizabeth finally looked up to find Jack smiling at her, her husband crossed the room and sat beside her on the edge of the bed.

"You look good with a baby in your arms again."

"I can't wait until it's our own," she replied, staring at Stetson.

"Me, too. I always thought you were your sexiest when you were pregnant or when you were holding our babies," Jack said as he pressed his hand against her belly.

"How's it going outside?"

"Good. We made some real progress on those two young geldings. But that mare that Bob brought over, she's a handful. Lee needed a break from her, and I wanted to check on you, so we came inside. Oh, and Wrangler told me to tell you, "Hello."

"Oh, he did?" Elizabeth giggled.

"Oh, yes. We have some profound conversations out there."

"That's good. I'm glad you have someone to tell all your deep, dark secrets to."

"Those are all for you," Jack grinned. "Besides, I don't have any left."

"That's good," Elizabeth said and winked at her husband.

"Have you settled on a name for our girl here?" he asked, still rubbing his hand across her stomach.

"Still stuck on those two. Have you?"

"No, the same thing, stuck on those two. Maybe we'll know when we see her."

"Know what when you see who?" Rosemary asked as she entered the room.

"What to name the baby when we see her."

"Oooo...you have names?"

"We aren't sharing anything until we've settled on one. And it probably won't be until she arrives," Elizabeth replied.

"Well, fine. I guess I will just wait."

"That's good because that's your only option," Jack teased. "Is Lee ready to head back out yet?"

"Yes, he's down with the kids, waiting for you. Can you send the kids up before you leave?"

"Will do." Jack stood, then leaned down and kissed Elizabeth on the mouth. "I need to get back outside. It's my turn with that mare," Jack winked. "Bye, Beautiful."

"Goodbye, Cowboy. Be careful."

"Always," he answered as he left the room.

Rosemary watched Jack leave, then turned to her friend. "You two give me a cavity."

…..

Jack and Lee had set up a round pen inside the indoor arena a few weeks prior in order to work some horses. As the mare ran nervously around the pen, Jack and Lee leaned against the panel and watched her.

"Some horses just can't be helped," Lee stated.

"I know, but I don't accept that with her."

Jack picked up his lariat, opened the gate, and stepped inside. Lee waited by the entrance to open it if Jack needed a quick escape. The mare stood on the far side of the pen, her ears forward, eyes wide, and nostrils flaring. She was scared, and Jack knew it. He slowly lowered the rope to the ground and quietly set it down, pulled his gloves off his hands and shoved them into his pocket, then eased his way across the distance between him and the horse.

The mare known as Millie didn't move. She stood with her eyes locked on Jack, while Jack's eyes scanned the horse, noticing her shoulder quivering. He held his hand out and softly spoke to the horse, and he continued to slowly close the gap.

As he got closer, the horse stretched her neck as far as she could, and Jack could feel her breath on his palm. Millie smelled Jack, then brought her head back but never moved her feet. Jack carefully laid his hand on her forehead, constantly talking to her, and petted the horse. He moved his hand down Millie's neck as he walked alongside her. The horse's shoulder began to quiver faster as Jack approached her side.

Millie was a three-year-old mustang and had spent her entire life running free. She'd never been near a human, let alone ever been touched by one. Jack placed his other hand on her now and continued to pet her. Keeping one hand on her neck, he slid his other over her withers and onto her back.

"Shhh, it's alright, girl. I'm not here to hurt you. I'm your friend. That's good, girl. Just let me touch you and show you how to trust me."

Lee watched from a distance, amazed at his best friend's ability to speak with horses. Lee had been able to touch the mare, but she took off every time he'd moved to her back. Lee listened hard, trying to hear what Jack was saying. He studied his friend constantly in hopes of being able to pick up a fraction of Jack's abilities.

"That's right, girl. I'm here to help you."

Jack had both hands on her back and started to ease one down her side. As soon as he did this, Millie flinched and ran off. Jack smacked his hand on his jeans, causing the horse to run faster. He moved the center of the pen where his curled-up lariat lay in the dirt, picked it up, and moved in a small circle in the middle of the pen. Jack hit the rope against his jeans, creating a cloud of dust and a loud sound. He kept the horse moving until he was ready to allow her to stop.

Jack dropped the rope into the dirt and stepped back, taking the pressure off of Millie. She immediately stopped and looked at Jack. Her sides heaved, and her nostrils flared wide as she tried hard to catch her breath. Jack moved toward her again, his hand out, speaking softly. He touched her forehead, neck, and back once more, taking his time, trying to ease her nerves. But again, when he slid his hand down her side, Millie dug in and ran from his touch.

Jack smacked his leg again, sending the horse into a faster run. He repeated this over and over. With each attempt to move further down the mare's body, she would bolt. So, Jack would make her run. This method lets the horse learn that she gets to rest if she listens and stands still. Eventually, the horse will stop running and allow herself to learn to trust her trainer.

After several times of Jack getting after her with the rolled-up lariat, Millie finally remained still. He moved about her, touching her everywhere. Jack picked up each of her legs, allowing her to rest between each one, and constantly spoke to her. As soon as he stepped back, giving her space, Millie let out a sigh and licked her lips.

"Damn, Jack. How do you do that?" Lee asked from outside the pen.

"You need to talk to them more. Keep your voice low, soft, and even. Never get anxious or excited when they don't respond the way you want them."

"I know all that, and I thought I was doing that. But they just don't respond to me like they do you."

"Maybe I smell better," Jack teased as he crossed the arena toward Lee. Jack peered over his shoulder and saw Millie close behind him, following him across the dirt. He looked at Lee and grinned.

"Yeah, that's it," Lee replied with an eye roll.

"Well, it's a theory. You have a better one?" Jack asked as he leaned onto the gate.

"Umm...that you're a horse whisperer, and I'm not."

"That's not a thing," Jack replied as he turned around to find Millie standing next to him. He reached out and petted her forehead.

"I beg to differ," Lee said, pointing toward the mare.

…..

February 21st, 2015 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Rosemary and Faith carried the dresses up to Elizabeth's room. They hung them in the closet, and Faith began trying them on.

"Hmmm...that one's nice, but it's just not you," Elizabeth said regarding the first dress.

"That's what I was thinking," Faith said as she stepped back into the huge closet. A few minutes later, with Rosemary's help, Faith came out in another dress. "What do you think about this one?"

"Well... it's not you either."

"Yeah, I didn't like this one, but the sales lady insisted that I at least try it on."

Faith and Rosemary stepped into the room for yet another dress.

"Oh, my gosh, Faith. That dress is gorgeous. And it fits you perfectly."

Faith turned around and looked at herself in the full-length mirror on the door. A smile covered her lips as she turned one way, then the other, checking out the dress from all sides. "I do really, really love this one."

"This dress is amazing," Rosemary said as she fiddled with the tie around Faith's waist. "Do you even want to try any others on?"

"Yes, just to be sure." Faith took one more look in the mirror before stepping back into the closet. A few minutes later, she emerged in the fourth dress.

"Oh, Faith," Elizabeth exclaimed. Her hand was over her mouth as she watched her friend turn around, looking at her reflection.

"Faith, this dress is even better than the last one," Rosemary stated as she stepped back. "That's the dress."

"I agree," Elizabeth said.

Faith thought for sure the last dress would be the one, but as she looked at herself in the mirror, her eyes welled up, and her heart began to race. For the first time, she saw herself as a bride and quickly fell in love with the dress.

"Are you crying?" Elizabeth asked. "You are! That means this is the one." Elizabeth clapped for her friend, remembering her own moment of finding her perfect wedding dress.

"Yes...yes, this is the one," Faith stated. She turned, again and again, watching the train flow around her. The lace sleeves and bodice hadn't been what she'd thought she wanted, but after seeing herself in the dress, it was more than she ever could have imagined. Faith covered her face with her hands as the tears flowed. This made everything more real and the approaching date just that much closer.

"Faith, are you alright?" Rosemary asked as she laid her hands on Faith's shoulders.

She nodded, keeping her face covered, then choked out the words. "I just love it so much."

Elizabeth moved to the edge of the bed and took her friend's hand. The three embraced until Faith regained control of her emotions.

"I'm sorry. I had no idea it would hit me like this," Faith said as she wiped her face.

"Don't you apologize for this," Elizabeth said. "This is an essential dress for an extremely important day."

Faith sniffled and nodded her head.

"Now, let's jack you up," Rosie said as she picked up the veil and beaded belt.

…..

Elizabeth was sitting in bed combing Peyton's wet hair while the little girl flipped through a picture book. Charlotte was over and had just given her granddaughter a bath, then headed to the kitchen to start supper. Jack entered the room with Colton and Blake, and the two little boys jumped onto the bed.

"Hi, Mommy," Colton said as he crawled beside her.

"Hey, Colt. Did you have fun outside with Daddy?"

"Yes. Wyatt chased a squirrel. Peanut licked my hand. Wrangler bumped me in the head. And I rode Maverick."

"What?" Elizabeth asked loudly, shooting a look toward Jack.

Jack grinned and held his hands in front of him. "He sat on his back. While Mav was tied up."

"Oh, okay." Elizabeth smiled at Jack and silently mouthed, "Sorry."

Jack grinned and shook his head, letting her know it was alright.

"What did you do, Blake?" Elizabeth asked.

"I got Max out and brushed him and gave him treats. He loves peppermint candies."

"Really? Those are Wrangler's favorite, too."

"Tell Mommy what else you did," Jack said, crossing his arms.

Blake lowered his gaze and fiddled with the comforter between his fingers.

Looking back and forth between her husband and son, Elizabeth finally asked, "What did you do, Blake?"

"I climbed on a barrel and got on Max."

"Okay?"

"Finish the story," Jack urged.

"With no saddle and no bridle, and Max didn't like it."

"Oh, dear," Elizabeth said, covering her mouth and looking at Jack.

Jack just tilted his head toward their son.

"What happened then, Blake?" Elizabeth asked.

"Max started running through the barn, and Daddy had to catch him before I fell off."

"Yes, Blake was very lucky today," Jack started. "He's lucky he didn't get hurt, hurt his brother, or hurt his horse."

"Yes, Daddy," Blake said as he looked at Jack. "I'm sorry."

"I know. And I bet you won't do it again, will you?"

"No, Daddy."

"Blakey held on tight," Colt said with a smile. "He didn't let go."

"Well, that's good...I guess," Elizabeth said, looking at Jack.

While Blake wasn't looking, Jack grinned at Elizabeth and nodded. Elizabeth rolled her eyes, shook her head, and hid her grin.

…..

With the kids in bed for the evening, Jack had his guitar in hand when he entered their bedroom and closed the door.

"Are you going to serenade me tonight?" Elizabeth asked with a huge smile. She set her book aside, lay on her side, and waited for Jack.

"I thought I might if you want me to."

"Of course."

Jack got onto the bed, straightened his pillows behind him, the propped his guitar across his lap. "What do you want to hear?"

"Hmmm...surprise me," Elizabeth answered.

Jack thought about it while he tuned his guitar. "This one is for her," Jack said, motioning to Elizabeth's stomach. "And that little girl down the hall."

"Okay," Elizabeth said, smiling and laying her hand on her belly.

Jack began to play his guitar, and as he sang, Elizabeth could feel the stinging tears pooling in her eyes.

"Well, I never once
Backed down from a punch
Well, I'd take it square on the chin
Well, I found out fast
A bully's just that
You've got to stand up to him
So, I didn't cry when I got a black eye
As bad as it hurt, I just grinned
But when tough little boys grow up to be dads
They turn into big babies again.

Scared me to death
When you took your first steps
And I'd fall every time you fell down
Your first day of school, I cried like a fool
And I followed your school bus to town
Well, I didn't cry, when Old Yeller died
At least not in front of my friends
But when tough little boys grow up to be dads
They turn into big babies again

Well, I'm a grown man
And as strong as I am
Sometimes it's hard to believe
That one little girl, with little blonde curls
Could totally terrify me
If you were to ask
My wife would just laugh
She'd say "I know all about men
How when tough little boys grow up to be dads
They turn into big babies again"

Well, I know one day, I'll give you away
And I'm gonna stand there and smile
And when I get home, and I'm all alone
Well, I'll sit in your room for a while
Well, I didn't cry when Old Yeller died
At least not in front of my friends
But when tough little boys grow up to be dads
They turn into big babies again
When tough little boys grow up to be dads
They turn into big babies again."

"Jack, that is beautiful. I've never heard that one before," she said as she wiped her tears away. "What song was that?"

"Tough Little Boys by Gary Allan," Jack answered as he set his guitar aside. "It's an older song."

"I love it."

"Yes, it's a pretty good one." Jack laid down alongside the length of his wife's body. He reached over, wiped a few stray tears away, then moved over her and kissed her softly on the lips. Elizabeth started to slide her hand down the front of Jack's chest but was stopped by Jack taking her hand.

"No. Not this time. Just relax and let me do this."

Elizabeth pulled her hand back and locked eyes with her husband. Jack looked at her with that intensity she'd seen so many times. He brushed the side of his hand along her cheek, then began tracing every feature, line, and shape of her face with his finger. He dragged his thumb across her bottom lip, pulling it down slightly. His gaze went to her parted lips, followed by his own covering hers, while his tongue glided across her teeth.

With his fingers curled, his knuckles grazed along her jawbone. He opened his hand and pushed his fingers into her hair, pulling her gently to him and kissing her passionately. He moved his mouth across her cheek, and stopping at her ear, he sucked the lobe between his lips and grazed his teeth across the skin.

Elizabeth laid back and rested her head on the pillow. With his fingertips, Jack followed the curves of her body. Jack's touch was soft and warm along her neck, over her shoulder, over her arm, and onto her hip, sending a chill through Elizabeth's body. He slipped his hand under her shirt, and with his palm flat against her stomach, he moved it over every inch of her belly, feeling his daughter move.

He moved his hand to her leg and ran his fingers down her thigh. Cupping behind her knee, he pulled her leg up, resting it on top of his own. Pressing his hand to the back of her thigh, Jack slowly slid it across her leg, stopping once he reached her butt. Cupping it, Jack squeezed it and pulled her slightly toward him.

During all this, Elizabeth's heartbeat sped up, her breath grew heavy, and several moans crossed her lips. She wanted to take it further, but she knew it was impossible. Multiple times she attempted to reach down to Jack, but every time Jack stopped her. It was her time, and Jack made certain that he covered every inch of her body...almost every inch.

He moved his hand up her back, and once reaching her shoulder, Jack pressed his body against hers while pulling her toward him and kissed her hard and deep.

Pulling back, Jack pushed his hands deep into her hair once more while his eyes scanned her face. "You are so incredibly gorgeous."

"Jack."

"You are," he said, still scanning her face. "The most beautiful."

"I am fat and swollen, Jack. I've packed on so much weight being stuck in this bed."

"Elizabeth, you are pregnant. You are gorgeous," he said as he tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear. "God, you're beautiful." He leaned toward her and kissed her neck. Slipping his finger under the collar of her shirt, he pushed it back, revealing her collarbone and shoulder, and moved his lips along her skin.

Elizabeth took this opportunity to quickly moved her hand down and was in his jeans and gripping him before Jack could stop her.

"Beth, please."

"Jack, let me do this. I want to please you."

"I don't...need that...for you to pl...please me."

Jack struggled with his words as Elizabeth stroked him. Struggling to get the movement she wanted, Elizabeth pulled her hand out and unfastened Jack's buckle and jeans. She spread the denim open and pushed his boxer briefs down, setting his eager manhood free.

After only a few minutes, Elizabeth had accomplished what she'd been trying to do all along, and she enjoyed the satisfied expression covering her husband's face.

Lying flat on his back, his arms outspread, the front of his jeans still open, he let out a hard breath. "Seriously, Beth. You need to let me just enjoy your body."

"We need to help you get ready for your analysis, you know," she teased.

"I think you've taken care of that all your own."

"Oh, no. We aren't even close," she grinned.

Jack turned to his side and rested on his elbow. "I think I'll be fine," he grinned. I still have a couple of weeks left."

"And we'll just need to keep this up to help you out then."

"You really don't have to." Jack touched her cheek, then ran his hand down her arm.

"If I don't, you'll have to do it yourself."

Jack lay silent for a moment, contemplating this fact. "Okay, your plan sounds much better."

…..

February 27th, 2015 – Hope Meadows Ranch

"How are you feeling today?" Elizabeth asked as she pulled herself into a seated position.

"I'm alright," Jack answered.

"Are you going to the cemetery?"

"Yes. Sam is coming over shortly, then I'm going to run over there."

"That's good," Elizabeth said.

Jack sat on the edge of the mattress next to his wife. "I was thinking about taking Blake. It's been a while since he's been there.

"That sounds like a great idea."

"Do you think so?"

"Yes. Blake would love to visit his mom."

"Okay," Jack said as he stood. "I'll go ask him now."

A short moment later, Jack returned to the bedroom and to Elizabeth's side.

"That was fast. Did he not want to go?"

"Oh, he does. He jumped off the bed and started changing his clothes before I finished asking him."

"Oh," Elizabeth said and chuckled. "That will be good for him."

"Hello?" Sam called out from the front door.

"Up here, Sam," Jack replied.

Footsteps could be heard jogging up the steps, followed by Samantha entering the bedroom. "Good morning," she said with her gleaming smile.

"Hey, Sam," Elizabeth replied.

"Thanks for coming over," Jack added.

"Of course. Any excuse to see my sister-in-law, niece, and nephews." Sam hopped onto the bed and moved up next to Elizabeth. "So, what's on the docket for today?"

"What do you feel like doing?" Elizabeth asked.

Jack smiled as he watched the two women discuss what they would do. He backed out of the room to check on the kids and to see if Blake was ready to go. The boys were making their beds, so Jack stepped into Peyton's room.

"Peyton Grace," Jack said with his hands on his hips.

Peyton jumped and spun around. "What, Daddy?"

"I thought I told you to make your bed."

The little girl let out a huge breath. "I don't like to," she pouted.

"Peyton," Jack started and kneeled before her. "Nobody likes to make their bed, but it's part of being a big girl. I thought you were my big girl now."

"I am your big girl," she said and jumped into his arms. After a giant hug, the little girl skipped to her bed. "I'll make it, Daddy. I'm your big girl."

Once her bed was made and Jack helped straighten her covers and pillows, Jack took Peyton's hand, and the pair went to the master bedroom, where the boys were already visiting with their mom and Sam.

…..

Highland Park Cemetery

Jack stopped the truck near where Becky's grave was located. He got out, walked to the back passenger door, and helped Blake down.

"Do you remember where it is?" Jack asked his son.

"I think so," Blake answered, looking up at his father.

"Do you want me to go with you?"

"No. I'm okay," Blake replied, then started toward her grave.

Jack remained beside the truck as his son crossed the cemetery. He watched Blake until the little boy reached the headstone with his mother's name etched. Blake knelt before the stone, placed his hand over her name, and began talking. Jack wished he'd followed his son, wondering what he was saying and if he was okay.

After a few minutes, Jack noticed Blake laugh. The little boy had been talking nonstop since he knelt at her graveside. He must be telling her about every single little thing that has happened since Becky went to be with God.

Knowing his son was alright, Jack started toward his father's headstone, glancing back to check on Blake every few feet. Once he reached his dad's grave, Jack stood beside it, facing the direction of his son, keeping an eye on him.

"Hey there, Dad," Jack started, laying his hand on the granite.

Jack looked at Blake just as the little boy scanned the cemetery for his daddy. Jack lifted his hand and waved at his son, who waved back, then continued his conversation with his mommy.

"Well, Dad. It's been several months since I've been here, and there's so much to tell you. Beth and I are expecting another baby. Our last baby, actually. She wasn't supposed to have anymore, so needless to say, this was a surprise and a huge shock. But we've both decided it's in God's hands, and He must have wanted us to have another one."

Jack looked at Blake again. The little boy leaned against the headstone with his hand over Becky's name. Jack could see that he was still talking, so he let him be.

"You would have loved being a grandfather," Jack stated. "You would have been an excellent one. Pops...Frank...is great, though. He's made Ma so happy, Dad. I hope you can see how much she's enjoying life. She's an awesome grandma, and all the kids adore her. And Pops. I really hope you don't mind that I call him Pops. I truly believe that you are okay with it. We miss you so much, but Pops has stepped up for us since you can't be here."

Jack checked on Blake again. He picked tiny purple blooms off of nearby weeds, carried his bouquet back to the headstone, and laid it on top. Jack smiled, then looked down at his father's name.

"Blake is incredible. The twins are amazing and becoming quite independent. Beth is the best thing that's ever happened to me. And this little girl we're anxiously waiting to meet will complete our family. Our family is almost whole, Dad. And she has been the missing piece."

Jack saw Blake walking toward him, so he wrapped up his conversation with his father. "Happy birthday, Dad. We'll light a candle for you tonight like we do every year." Jack kissed the palm of his hand and pressed it on top of the headstone. "See ya, Dad."

"Is that Grandpa's?" Blake asked as he neared his daddy.

"It sure is," Jack replied. He picked up his son and stepped back to the headstone. "One more thing, Dad. This is Blake. See how big he's gotten already."

"Hi, Grandpa. Please tell Mommy that I miss her and love her." Blake waved at the grave.

"I'm sure Grandpa is telling her that right now," Jack said as he started toward the truck.

"Really? You really think so?" Blake asked with a big smile.

"I do," Jack answered as he ruffled his son's hair.

…..

Jack arrived home with Blake and a gallon of chocolate ice cream. The twins came barreling down the stairs at the sound of their father's voice. And screeched when they saw the ice cream.

"Ice cream! Ice cream!" Peyton and Colton shouted in unison as they ran down the steps.

"Not until after lunch," Jack stated as he put it into the freezer.

"Ahhh," the twins replied.

"Is Aunt Sam upstairs with Mommy?"

"Yes, they are watching a movie," Colton answered.

"Let's go see them," Jack said, holding his hands out to the twins. As they entered the bedroom, Colton and Peyton let go of Jack's hands and ran to the bed where their coloring books were still spread open. Blake followed behind them, jumped onto the mattress, and began looking for his book. "Hello, ladies," Jack said as he walked to Elizabeth's side.

"Hey, Jack," Sam replied. "Did you have a nice visit?"

Jack pulled a chair up next to the bed and took a seat. "Yes, we sure did."

"That's good," Elizabeth said as she pulled Jack's hat off his head. She set it on the bed and ran her fingers through his matted-down hair.

"How was your morning?" Jack asked as he slid his hand into hers.

"We colored!" Peyton shouted as she held up three different finished pages.

"Those are beautiful, baby girl," Jack said as he admired his daughter's work.

Elizabeth's heart was full each time she saw the look in her husband's eyes when he gazed at his children. His love overflowed for his family, and he showed it every chance.

"What did you do, Momma?" he asked as he brushed his hand across the top of her thigh.

"Sam checked me over, we watched a DIY show, and colored with the kids."

"That sounds like a full morning," Jack smiled. Looking at Sam, he asked, "How's Beth and baby doing?"

"Beth's blood pressure was slightly elevated but nothing for concern yet. I'll keep a close eye on it. Other than that, clean bill of health."

Jack squeezed Elizabeth's leg and gave her a smile. "Thank you, Sam."

"Daddy, can we have ice cream now?" Colton asked.

"What did I tell you, Colt?" Jack replied.

"Not until after lunch."

"Have we had lunch?"

"No." Colton's voice dropped slightly, along with his eyes.

"Okay, so...can you have ice cream yet?"

"No," he said, his dropping even more.

"That's right. So, what do you say we go fix Mommy and Aunt Sam some lunch?" Jack asked the kids.

"And then eat ice cream?" Colton asked loudly.

"Yes, and then eat ice cream."

All three kids quickly shuffled off the bed and headed out the bedroom door. Their footsteps running down the log steps echoed through the house.

Laughing, Jack stood and then kissed his wife's forehead. "I guess we're going to go make lunch now."

Sam and Elizabeth were giggling as Jack left the room. They could hear the children's excited voices carrying up the stairs as they helped their daddy prepare the food.

…..

March 3rd, 2015 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Elizabeth was sound asleep when Jack came to bed that evening. After getting the kids tucked in and the kitchen cleaned, he checked on her to find her curled into her body pillow and quietly snoring. Jack closed the bedroom door, leaving it open just a crack, and proceeded downstairs.

After channel surfing for ten minutes, Jack found a special on high-risk pregnancies and began watching it. Two doctors were on a panel with three sets of expectant parents, and the host had just finished introducing everyone. Jack listened intently as they described each pregnancy and their issues or worries. However, none of them were similar to Elizabeth's situation. Jack watched half of the episode, then decided to go to bed when he could no longer keep his eyes open.

Once upstairs and changed, Jack carefully eased into bed so as not to wake up Elizabeth. Soon after his head hit the pillow, Jack was lost in a deep sleep.

…..

Holding his newborn baby daughter in one arm, Jack gripped onto Peyton's hand with the other. Blake was holding Colton's hand, and the boys were standing in front of their father. Many sullen faces surrounded them as they stood unmoving. People passed by as if they were floating, giving Jack and the children an empathetic expression before moving on.

Peyton wrapped her arm around Jack's leg and held on tight as she sucked on her thumb. Blake put his arm across his brother's shoulders, and the two brothers tipped their heads together.

Jack felt as if he'd be sick as he looked down at his youngest daughter. She was asleep, oblivious to the world crumbling around the Thorntons. She was innocent in all of this.

Grace walked up to Jack, her eyes red and swollen, and took the baby. She cradled her tightly to her chest as she crossed the room and sat in a chair near the window. Jack reached down and picked up Peyton, who quickly wrapped her arms around Jack's neck, almost choking him. But he didn't care.

"It's time," a man in a blue suit said to Jack. He stepped to the side and waited for Jack to respond.

Jack simply nodded, tapped Blake on the shoulder, and held his hand out. His son placed his hand in his, and the family began to file into the room.

As soon as Jack saw her, he froze, unable to continue. At the front of the room was a casket with the lid open. Inside was his wife. She's only sleeping, Jack tried to convince himself. She'll wake up soon. Sam, passing by, took Peyton and the little girl moved her arms around her aunt's neck. Frank took hold of Colton and Blake's hands and started toward the front. With Charlotte on one side and William on the other, both holding onto Jack's arms, they began walking down the aisle.

Jack's legs would barely move, and his whole body began to shake. He stopped and stared at the beautiful woman that lay before him. "I can't. I can't do it," he said, stopping twenty feet from the casket. "This isn't real."

"Jack, you have to," William stated as he supported his son-in-law.

"No, Sir. I can't."

"Jack," Charlotte said as she moved before her son. "You don't have a choice. You have to be strong for your children. You need closure; this is the only way you'll get it."

"No, Ma. This isn't real."

"I'm sorry, Jack. But it is."

"No!" Jack shouted. "It isn't." Jack felt someone tap his shoulder, and he turned around, but no one was there. Looking back at his mom, he continued. "It can't be real. God gave us that little girl, so everything should have been fine." Another tap made Jack spin around, still finding no one.

"Jack," William started now, "I know how hard this is. She's my little girl. But your children need you right now."

Jack turned to face his father-in-law. "But I can't be there for them. I can't do this. She was my life! How am I supposed to do this?"

"You just do it. One day at a time," Charlotte replied.

"No!" Jack shouted once more. Jack's body shook, and he could feel hands on his shoulders again. "What?!" he called out.

"Jack!"

Jack shot up in bed, almost hitting Elizabeth in the face. Sweat poured down his face, mixing with his tears, and Jack looked around the room, dazed and unaware of his surroundings. His eyes locked with Elizabeth's, and he froze. His hand reached for her face, and as soon as he felt her warm skin, Jack pulled her against him into a tight embrace.

"Oh, my God, Beth. You're alive," he said with a choked voice.

"Of course, I am. What are you talking about?"

Jack pushed her back and held her with his arms straight, taking in the sight of his beautiful and breathing wife. "It was so real," he stated as he touched her face again. "I thought...I thought I'd lost you."

"What? I thought you were done with those dreams." Elizabeth wiped Jack's tears from his cheeks.

"So did I. I haven't had one in a while." Jack's eyes continuously scanned his wife's body as if he was still trying to convince himself she was there. "But, God, it was so real."

"Do you want to tell me about it?"

Jack leaned back against his pillows, pulling his wife down with him. She lay in his arms as he told her about his dream. "I wish I'd never seen that special on TV. I think that's what caused it."

"I'm sure it did. And, Jack, you're so exhausted. You need to slow down." Elizabeth slid her hand across Jack's stomach.

"I will when she arrives," Jack said as he laid his hand on Elizabeth's stomach. "Until then, I have to do what I have to do."

"You need more help."

"No, I'm fine. Really. It was just that show I watched."

Knowing this wasn't true, Elizabeth made a mental note to make a phone call the next day.

"Wow, I never want to go through that," Jack said as he tightened his arms around his wife. "It was the worst thing I have ever seen...you in that casket."

This statement sent a shiver through Elizabeth's body, and she moved closer to Jack's side.

"I can't do this without you," Jack said, then kissed the top of her head. "I just can't."

"I hope and pray that you never do, Jack. But if it came down to it, you would have to."

Jack shook his head.

"Jack, you would never leave your kids for someone else to deal with, and I know that. You would step up. You would be strong. You would be there for them."

Jack let out a breath and held his wife. "I don't ever want to find out."

They lay in silence, Jack listening to her breathing, Elizabeth listening to his. Elizabeth heard his begin to slow and felt his body relax beside her, and she knew he had fallen back to sleep. She stayed awake for as long as she could, ready to wake him if he showed signs of another nightmare, but Jack remained still. Elizabeth draped her leg over his and her arm across his stomach, like she would have with the pillow. Now in her favorite sleeping position and Jack relaxed beside her, she fell asleep as she listened to the hypnotic rhythm of his breathing.

…..

March 7th, 2015 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Elizabeth was returning to bed after taking a quick shower when Rosemary came in.

"Good morning, Liz."

"Hey, Rosie. What are you doing here so early?"

"Jack needed to run an errand, so I told him I'd come over."

"Oh, he is?" Elizabeth rubbed the towel over her hair, then tossed it onto the bed. "He didn't say anything to me about it."

"Um, maybe it just came up."

"Maybe." Elizabeth stepped into the closet and removed a pair of leggings from a drawer. She thumbed through her hangers of shirts and settled on a pink one. "Are you kids here?"

"No, Lee stayed home with them."

"Oh, okay." Elizabeth listened, then asked. "Are my kids here?"

"Jack took them with him."

"What? Why wouldn't he tell me that?"

"He was getting in the Yukon, and the kids ran out and asked if they could go with him. He asked me to tell you."

Finding the whole thing strange, Elizabeth shrugged it off. "Okay."

Rosemary was sitting on the edge of the bed while Elizabeth was in the closet trying to get dressed. Jack was usually there to help her, so she struggled to get her legs into the pants.

"Do you need some help in there?"

"I'm thinking that I might."

Rosemary held the leggings as Elizabeth stepped into them, then eased them up her legs and into place.

"Thank you, Rosie."

"Of course, Liz. I know the struggle, and it's not an easy one."

They laughed as Rosemary walked her friend back to bed. Once Elizabeth was settled, Rosemary walked to the other side, hopped onto the mattress, and grabbed the remote.

"Outlander?"

"Sounds perfect," Elizabeth smiled.

…..

After two episodes of Outlander, a chick flick, and lunch, Elizabeth was flipping through a magazine while Rosemary unloaded the dishwasher when she heard the front door open. The exuberant voices of three children filled the house, and Elizabeth tried to make out what they were saying. Unable to, she started to get out of the bed when Jack walked in.

"What are you doing, Beautiful?"

Swinging her legs back onto the mattress, her face lit up at the sight of her husband. "Hey, Cowboy. Where have you been?"

"Didn't Rosie tell you I had to run an errand?"

"Yes, but what errand?"

Jack sat on the edge of the bed and kissed her on the lips. "Well, I had to go pick something up for you."

"Mommy!" Peyton shouted as she ran into the room. "Looks who's here."

Elizabeth looked toward the door and saw her mom and dad walk into the room.

"Hello, Sweetheart," Grace said. She hurried across the room, her arms out, tears in her eyes, and hugged her daughter. "Oh, Beth. It's so good to see you."

"Mom, what are you doing here? I didn't think you were coming for another week."

"When you called us the other day and said that Jack needed help, we called the airlines immediately and changed our flight to today."

"Oh, Mom," Elizabeth said, hugging Grace once more. "I've missed you both so much."

Grace moved out of the way so William could step in. "How's my little girl?" he asked as he wrapped his arms around his daughter.

"Daddy," she said, with tears now flowing down her cheeks. "Thank you," she whispered into his ear."

"Of course," he whispered back.

"Let us get a good look at you," Grace said as William stood. Elizabeth pulled her shirt up, revealing her large belly.

Grace sat on the edge of the bed again and laid her hands on her daughter's stomach. "Oh, precious girl," she said, feeling her granddaughter push against her hand. "How have you been feeling?"

"I feel okay, but I am sick of being in here," Elizabeth said with a small smile.

"I'm sure you are," Grace said as she patted Elizabeth's arm. The woman looked around the room and noticed all the things Jack had bought for his wife. "What is all of this?"

"Oh, Jack bought me all of this to help me keep busy.

"How wonderful. Very sweet, Jack," she said as she smiled at her son-in-law.

The kids had been running around, excited over their grandparents' arrival, and Jack kept them corralled around him while Elizabeth visited with her parents.

"So," Grace said, clapping her hands together, "what needs to be done?"

"Please relax, Mom. You guys just got here."

"Beth, we came to help, so we will help. What needs to be done?"

"I was about to start a load of laundry," Rosemary said as she entered the room. "She just had lunch, and the dishes are done. The kids will need baths, and their bedrooms need vacuuming. Other than that, everything else is done. We've all tried to keep everything up, and what we didn't get done, Jack did."

William crossed the room to his son-in-law and laid his hand on Jack's shoulder. "We are here to help, son. You just let us know what you want us to do, and we'll do it. You've done so much and have done a wonderful job."

"Thank you, William," Jack responded with relief hidden in his voice. Even with all of his family helping, Jack had sometimes felt as if he was burning the candle at both ends, and it was beginning to catch up with him.

"I'll get the clothes started," Grace said. She picked up the hamper and left the room.

"Thank you, Rosie," Jack said and hugged his friend. "You should get home to your husband and children now."

"I will be back tomorrow to see you," Rosemary told Elizabeth as she hugged her goodbye.

"Please, Rosie, spend time with your family."

"I will, but I will be by briefly to see you. And that's that." Rosemary straightened and placed her hands on her hips.

"Okay, okay."

"See you tomorrow, William. It's good to see you." Rosemary hugged the man, then left to head home.

"Where's the vacuum, Jack. I'll get the kids' room."

"I can do that."

"Jack, where's the vacuum."

Without further argument, Jack told William where to find it.

"Can we see Mommy now?" Colton asked, looking up at Jack.

"Of course."

The kids jumped onto the bed and crawled to Elizabeth. She moved over to make space on her left side and was surrounded by her children. They felt her stomach, told her about their morning and seeing the big planes at the airport, then settled in to snuggle with her.

Jack had been lying on the bed, listening and watching, trying to relax. As his children settled in next to his wife, Jack laid his head on his pillow and quickly fell asleep.

"Daddy's sleeping," Blake said softly.

Elizabeth looked over at her husband, then instructed the kids the remain quiet and still. She picked up the remote and turned it to the Disney Channel.

…..

Jack took his kids to Tom's house that evening for Luke's 10th birthday. Sam had ordered pizza, planned a few games, and served one of Charlotte's cakes. When they returned home, the children ran upstairs to tell their mommy all about it.

"It sounds like Luke had a great party," Elizabeth said to her kids.

"He did, he did," Peyton exclaimed. "We played pin the tail on the donkey. It was fun."

"That is a fun game," Elizabeth said, smiling.

"We got to hit a pinata, too," Blake added.

"Wow, I bet that was fun. Did lots of candy fall out of it?"

"Yeah! But it took lots of hits to break it. Luke broke it," Blake said.

"That sounds amazing."

"It was," Colton said. "And Luke got a new puppy. His name is Nitro."

"Wow, really? I bet he loved that."

"Yes, Nitro is funny," Colton said. "He's like Wyatt, but he looks different."

"He gave us bunches of kisses," Peyton added. "We played with him all night."

"It sounds like you had a wonderful time."

"We did, Mommy. Everyone wished you were there, too," Blake said.

"I do too, sweetheart," Elizabeth replied and ran her hand through her son's hair.

Elizabeth looked up and found Jack watching them from the doorway. Once she saw him, he walked into the room and lay across the bed.

"A new puppy?"

"Yes. An Aussie like Wyatt, but he's blue instead of red."

"Oh, he must be adorable."

"Very," Jack replied and smiled. "Did you eat?"

"Yes, Mom made chicken Ceasar salad."

"That sounds great."

"It was. You look tired," she said, combing her fingers through his hair.

"I am."

"What's my mom and dad doing?"

"They were watching something on TV."

"Why don't you put the kids to bed, then come to bed yourself."

"Okay," he said, then slid off the bed. "Kids, tell Mommy good night."

After multiple hugs and kisses, Jack finally got the kids to their rooms, changed, and into bed. He informed the Thatchers that they were going to bed, then Grace and William headed down to their own space.

When Jack returned to their bedroom, Elizabeth was not in bed. Jack checked the bathroom, then the closet. Elizabeth had just pulled her shirt over her head, and Jack stood in the doorway, eyeing his wife's body. He walked up behind, pulled her hair off her shoulders, then laid his hands on either side of her stomach.

"Hey, Beautiful," he said before kissing her neck. "Let me help you."

Elizabeth turned around as Jack knelt in front of her and pulled her leggings over her hips. With his palms pressed to her legs, and his pinkies tucked under the waistband of the pants, Jack slid his hand down her legs, pushing the leggings down until he reached her ankles. Jack cupped her left calf and lifted it. He pulled the pants over that foot, then repeated it on the other. As he stood, he dragged his hands along her legs, stopping at her hips.

"How much longer?" he asked, pressing his lips to her neck.

"Eight or nine weeks. Depending on when she arrives," Elizabeth replied. Her head was tipped back, and her chest heaved with each breath. "Eight or nine very long weeks."

"Yes," he said, then kissed her hard on the mouth. He kissed her on each cheek, then returned to her neck. "I can't wait to make love to you," he whispered.

"Me, too," she said with a breathy voice.

Jack reached over and picked up her oversized shirt. He pulled it over her head, allowing his fingers to graze her skin as he pulled the shirt down. "Let's go to bed."

He took her hand and led her out of the closet. Pulling back the covers, Jack helped her onto the mattress, then pulled the blankets over her. After he had changed, he got into bed next to her. She scooted into his side, laying her leg across his again, and brushed her hand across his abdomen.

They were soon asleep and remained in each other's arms throughout the night.

…..

March 10th, 2015 – Urology Department, University Hospital, Missouri

Jack walked into the Urology Department with a brown paper bag in his hand. Elizabeth had helped him that morning to retrieve the contents it held inside, but Jack was still feeling embarrassed about the whole thing now that he was at the clinic. He approached the front desk, spoke briefly to a nurse, then handed over his specimen.

"We'll call you tomorrow with the results."

"Thank you, ma'am," Jack said with a tip of his hat. He turned and walked out, feeling the eyes of the nurses on his back.

…..

When he returned home and found Elizabeth and his kids in good hands with his in-laws, Jack proceeded to the barn to chore and work with Millie. He ducked into the house to check on Elizabeth around lunch, saw that everyone was eating, grabbed a quick bite, then returned to the arena.

Lee had arrived now, and the pair worked with a few horses. Then Jack brought Maverick into the arena, saddled and ready to go.

"Have you ridden him yet?" Lee asked.

"Yes, a few times. Just testing him out: walk, trot, run. Nothing with a calf yet."

"He's an amazing looking horse, Jacko," Lee stated as he admired the stallion. "He's built for this."

Jack walked the horse around, watching the stallion move, looking him over closely.

"We'll have next season in the bag," Lee grinned.

"Don't get too cocky now," Jack said with a laugh. "I haven't seen what he'll do around a calf yet."

"He'll be fine. He's got you," Lee said, pointing toward Jack.

Jack just grinned and shook his head. After leading Maverick into the round pen, Jack placed his foot in the stirrup and got on the horse.

…..

At the end of the day, when Lee had gone home, and Jack returned to the house, William and Grace were watching a movie with the kids while Elizabeth rested.

"I'm going upstairs," Jack stated as he walked toward his kids. "You guys listen to Grandpa and Grandma and behave."

"Yes, Daddy."

"I'll probably crash and fall asleep right away, so good night, all of you." Jack kissed each of his children, then Grace's cheek, and shook William's hand. "Thank you, both of you, for helping out around here."

"Of course, Jack," Grace replied, pulling Peyton onto her lap. "We're delighted to be here."

"Beth and I are very grateful."

"Good night, Jack," William said as his son-in-law started up the stairs.

Elizabeth was on the bed, her legs crossed, doing one of her stretches, when Jack entered the room. He closed the door and then pulled his shirt over his head. "I'm going to take a quick shower."

"Okay," Elizabeth replied as she pulled her arm to the side.

Jack began to walk toward the bathroom, but Elizabeth's shirt fell open, revealing her very pregnant tummy. Jack stopped, crossed the room to the bed, got on it, and knelt behind her. Wearing only his jeans, Jack moved his arms around her. One under her stomach, his hand cupping her belly, while his other arm supported her across her back as she leaned against him.

Elizabeth reached up and gripped the back of Jack's hair, pulling him down until their lips met. Jack kissed her hard, his tongue exploring hers, creating their own tango as their lips fit perfectly together. They tasted each other and longed for each other as they enjoyed what little they could do at the moment.

…..

March 11th, 2015 - Hope Meadows Ranch

Jack entered the bedroom with the phone to his ear, then stepped into the bathroom. Elizabeth was sitting on the bed, watched him pass through, and kept her eyes on the bathroom door. A few minutes later, Jack emerged from the room.

"Everything okay?" she asked him.

"I failed," he said with a pout.

"You failed? What?"

"My sperm analysis."

"Oh," Elizabeth grinned.

"Something funny?" he asked her as he lay across the bed.

"Your swimmers are strong," she teased.

Jack rolled his eyes, then turned over onto his back. Elizabeth leaned over him, looking down into his eyes, a grin covering her lips.

"Well, they are. You knocked me up despite having had my tubes tied."

"That, I did," he laughed, pulled her face down, and kissed her.

"I guess we'll just have to take care of business a bit more frequently," she teased.

"Well, if you insist," he said with a smirk. "I have to take another sample to them in a month."

Elizabeth reached across Jack and slid her hand over his crotch. "Then we have a month to get you ready."

Jack reached up, cupped her face, and pulled her down until their lips met again.

…..

March 12th, 2015 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Elizabeth woke up early in the morning, having to make another trip to the bathroom. She slowly moved her legs off the bed, pushed herself up, and grunted slightly as she stood. She pressed her hand into her lower back and made her way to the bathroom, waddling the entire distance.

When she was finished, she crossed the room to return to bed and felt a small amount of fluid trickle down her leg. She stopped, stood a moment, then returned to the bathroom. Thinking she must have only peed a little, she started back to the bed, only to have it happen again.

She quickly returned to the bathroom, and as she crossed the room, a larger gush of fluid ran down her legs and onto the floor. She looked down, and seeing a clear liquid around her feet, she straightened and her eyes widened.

Just as she turned to go to Jack, pain flowed through her abdomen. She gripped her stomach with one hand, the sink with the other, and doubled over.

"Jack!" she shouted.