This chapter (and the last one) has turned into a little memorial chapter. Kate, an admin on the fan fiction Facebook page, passed away last month. I have named a character in this chapter (and the last chapter) after her. I have also name one after my mother that I lost this year, and my father that I lost last year, Russ & Sandy. Martie, mentioned in the last chapter, was my cousin that I lost a few years ago. Just little ways to remember them. Thank you for reading, I hope you enjoy this chapter filled with love, laughter, and kids. No steam alert on this one.


May 12th, 2015 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Elizabeth carried Brianna into the house after the baby's two-month checkup. The kids and Jack were in the kitchen preparing lunch together when Blake ran to greet his mommy.

"I'll take her," he said with his arms out wide.

"Why don't you sit down first, then I'll lay her on your lap."

"Okay, Mommy," the little boy eagerly agreed, then ran to the couch.

Elizabeth laid her daughter on her son's lap as Blake supported the baby's head with one hand and wrapped the other around her.

"I got her, Mommy," Blake stated, ensuring his mother that Brianna was safe.

"Okay. I'm going to see if Daddy needs any help. Just holler if you need one of us to come to get her."

"Okay, but I won't need to." Blake was staring at his sleeping baby sister. Her round cheeks, her soft pink skin, her long dark eyelashes like their daddy's. Everything about her was perfect in Blake's eyes.

"Blake watching Brianna again?" Jack asked with a grin when Elizabeth walked into the kitchen.

"Yes, he sure is."

"I feel sorry for anyone that does anything bad to that little girl," Jack stated. "They will have Blake to contend with."

"And not her daddy?"

"Well, yes. Me, too," he answered with a wink. "How was Bri's appointment?"

"Perfect. Growing like a weed."

"That's good," Jack replied as he dropped a handful of diced potatoes into a pot of boiling water.

"What can I do to help?" Elizabeth asked.

"Nothing, Mommy. We got it," Colton said proudly as he picked up a handful of silverware.

"Well, what do I do now? Blake has Brianna, and you guys have lunch. What's left for me?"

"Nothing. We started the laundry, too," Peyton added.

Wyatt moved in beside Elizabeth and pushed her hand with his nose. She knelt beside him and placed an arm around the dog.

"Why don't you and Wyatt go upstairs and relax for a bit? I'll send one of the kids to get you when lunch is ready."

Elizabeth turned her head to look at the dog. "What do you think, Wyatt? Shall we go lay down?"

The dog turned and ran up the stairs, disappearing around the railing toward the bedroom.

"I guess that's a yes," Jack said with a laugh.

Elizabeth stood and crossed the room and kissed Jack on the cheek. "Thank you, Cowboy."

"You're welcome, Beautiful. Now...go take a nap or something," Jack said with a huge smile.

When Elizabeth arrived to the bedroom, Wyatt sat on the bed waiting for her. As soon as he saw her, he spun around twice, then danced on the bed with his little nub for a tail wagging like crazy.

"Okay, okay," Elizabeth said as she laughed. "I'll lay down with you."

She climbed onto her side of the bed, and Wyatt immediately lay beside her, pressing against her side, as he pushed his nose under her arm. Elizabeth rolled to her side and draped an arm across the dog.

"Is this what you were wanting?"

Wyatt looked at Elizabeth and kissed her on the chin with his long tongue. He laid his head over her arm and closed his eyes, and Elizabeth could still feel his entire back-end wagging back and forth.

…..

"The table is all ready, Daddy."

"Good job, Colt. Thank you."

"You're welcome," the little boy said with his chin raised with pride.

"How are those potatoes coming, Pey Pey?"

"Good," the little girl exclaimed. "See," she said as she tilted the bowl toward her daddy.

Jack walked over and peered inside, seeing chunks of potatoes mixed with the mashed ones. Grinning, he assured his daughter, "Yes, those look great."

"Daddy!" Blake shouted from the living room.

Jack ran into the room and saw Blake still on the couch with his little sister on his lap. The boy's face was twisted, and he held his arms into the air.

"What is it, Blake?"

"She made a funny face, and now she STINKS!"

Laughing, Jack picked up his daughter and cradled her in his arm. "I'm going to go change her. Please help Peyton with mashing the potatoes."

"Okay," Blake said as he scooted off the couch.

After changing his daughter, Jack placed her in the bouncy seat on the kitchen floor, turned it on, and just as he turned to return to the food, a loud crash echoed through the room.

"Oh, no!" Blake shouted.

"I'm sorry. I'm sorry," Peyton said as her eyes began tearing up.

"What happened?" Jack asked as he hurried around the large island.

On the floor between his children was the bowl of mashed potatoes.

"I didn't mean to, Daddy. I was trying to smash them like you said," Peyton cried.

"It's alright, sweetie," Jack said as he grabbed a towel from next to the sink. He knelt beside the mess, noticing that the bowl was upright and most of the potatoes were still in it. "Look, it's fine. We still have plenty to eat." Jack picked it up and placed it on the island. "Let's get this little bit on the floor cleaned up. Everyone help your sister, okay?"

Blake and Colton each picked up a towel and got on their knees beside their daddy. With a paper towel in her hand, Peyton joined them, and the little group had the mess cleaned up in no time.

"There. It's all clean, we still have plenty to eat, and we did it as a team," Jack said as he pulled all three of his children into a hug. "It was just an accident, Pey Pey."

"Okay," the little girl replied.

"Would you like to run up and get Mommy, Blake?" Jack asked.

Blake's eyes lit up, and he tore out of the kitchen and up the stairs. He slowed to a walk when he entered the bedroom, saw that his mommy was asleep, and slowly approached the bed. Wyatt lifted his head at the sound of footsteps, saw Blake, and began to wag his backend once again.

"Mommy," Blake said quietly. Elizabeth didn't respond, so Blake gently tapped her shoulder. "Mommy?"

Elizabeth rolled to her back and stretched her arms while Wyatt moved and laid across her legs. She sat up quickly and looked around the room. Seeing Blake, she asked, "What is it? Is everything alright?"

"Yes. Lunch is ready."

Elizabeth put her arms around her son, hugged him, and kissed the top of his head. "Okay, tell Daddy that I'll be right down."

"Okay," Blake said as he petted Wyatt's head.

By the time Elizabeth and Wyatt came down the stairs, the food was on the table, the children were in their seats, and Brianna's bouncy seat had been moved next to Jack.

"Wow, what a special treat," Elizabeth said as she walked to her chair beside her husband. "This looks wonderful."

Elizabeth sat down, pulled her chair forward, and laid her hands on the table. Jack grabbed the one closest to him, lifted it to his lips, and kissed her knuckles.

"Did you have a nice nap?"

"Yes. I didn't realize how tired I was until my head hit the pillow."

"I knew Brianna had you up a few times last night."

"Yes, that she did."

After the prayer was said, the food was passed around, and everyone's plates were full, Elizabeth looked at her family with a smile on her face.

"Tell me about your morning," she said to her children.

They all began to speak at once, but Elizabeth didn't mind. She listened hard, trying to hear each of their stories, and commented now and again on the exciting parts.

…..

May 16th, 2015 – Walker's Family Ranch

"This ranch is unbelievable," Rosemary stated as she stared out the window across the property.

"Isn't it?" Faith replied. "As soon as he asked me to marry him, I knew I wanted to have the wedding here."

"Absolutely. This place is gorgeous," Elizabeth stated.

"Where are the guys?" Abby asked.

"They're getting ready at a cabin on the back side of the property," Faith answered. "They all stayed there last night. Kind of a last-minute bachelor party of sorts."

"I can't wait to hear how their night went," Rosemary added with a giggle.

"I found them," Kate exclaimed when she stepped out of the bathroom. "They fell into the bottom of my bag."

Kate held her hand out, displaying a pair of sapphire and diamond drop earrings.

"Oh, Katie. They're beautiful," Faith said as she picked them up.

"Your something blue," Kate said as she took one of the earrings and began to put it through her sister's ear.

"Faith, you look amazing," Abby said as she admired her friend.

"Yes, she does," Sandra, Faith's mother, said as she entered the room. "Sweetheart, you look incredible."

"Thanks, Mom," Faith replied as she dabbed her cheeks with a tissue. "Where's Dad?"

"He's downstairs with Walker's parents. Dear, let me help you with that," Sandra said, taking the necklace from Faith and placing it around her neck.

…..

Faith, Elizabeth, Rosemary, Abby, and Kate waited at the back door of the large cedar house. Elizabeth looked out the window, trying to get a glimpse of her husband, but the men couldn't be seen.

"Where are the guys? Shouldn't they be here by now?" Elizabeth asked, twisting her neck one way, then the other, trying to see across the expansive yard.

Faith stood behind Elizabeth, hiding her dress from the view of anyone that may be looking. "I have no idea. And yes, I thought they'd be here by now." Faith took a few steps back, and the women noticed fear cross her face like a shadow from the setting sun. "What if Walker changed his mind? What if he realized that he didn't want to marry me? What if..."

"Faith. Stop," Elizabeth said, cutting her friend off mid-sentence. She moved swiftly to her friend. "Walker loves you. We can all see that. He's crazy about you."

"Yes, Faith," Kate agreed. "The short while I've known him, I can see it as clear as the beautiful day outside."

"Faith," Rosemary said, taking her friend by the shoulders and turning her to face her. "We've seen the two of you together, apart, together again, apart again, and each time you two took a break, I could see in Walker's demeanor that he wasn't happy without you in his life. He loves you as Lee loves me. Like Jack loves Elizabeth."

Faith looked back and forth between Rosemary and Elizabeth, seeing both of her friends smiling and nodding their heads. "Really?"

"Yes," Elizabeth assured her friend. "We've all seen it."

And just as quickly as the show of doubt had curtained across Faith's expression, relief took its place.

"Ladies," a voice called out from the doorway.

They turned around to find Walker's father standing with the door open and a smile on his face.

"Would you beautiful ladies like to join me outside? Walker has planned a little surprise for you."

"What?" Faith asked, covering her mouth with both hands.

"See," Rosemary said, "he loves you just the same."

"What about my dress? I don't want anyone to see me yet."

"I've got a plan," Abby said.

The women formed a makeshift shield, standing shoulder to shoulder, with Faith hidden safely behind them. The group followed Russell, Walker's father, to the edge of the patio that stretched the width of the house.

"Watch over there," Russ stated, pointing toward a grassy hill.

He stepped away and allowed the women to move into a position where they could see the area clearly. They stretched onto their toes, bent their necks back and forth, and tried their hardest to get a glimpse of what the surprise might be. Gasps could be heard throughout the backyard when the men came into sight.

Guests of the bride and groom turned in their seats to see what the women were watching. Walker and his four groomsmen, all on horseback, galloped over the crest of the hill. Even from a distance, everyone could see smiles and laughter coming from the men as their horses barreled down the hill. Loud hoots and hollers followed as the men appeared to be racing now.

Elizabeth's eyes locked on Jack as he leaned forward and kicked his horse to move even faster, inching just past his brother and Lee. As the men approached the ceremony area, they pulled their horses up, and each turned their steed in a few circles, regaining control and calming the animal down.

Parker, Walker's brother, led the group to a small stable near the back of the house, where they tied the horses. The women quickly moved back inside, shielding Faith from view, blocking her from Walker's sight.

"Those boys are just too much when they get together," Faith said, laughing.

"You have no idea," Rosemary replied.

The women laughed as they fussed over Faith's hair and makeup, assuring it was just right. They straightened her necklace, tucked in a loose curl, and fluffed out her train.

"Are you ready?" Kate asked her younger sister.

"Beyond ready," Faith answered. She drew a deep breath through her nose, blew it out through her lips, smiled, and nodded.

…..

The weather couldn't have been more perfect. A gentle breeze passed through, keeping the temperature at a comfortable level. A violin began to play, echoing through the valley, sounding as one with the natural songs of nature that seemed to join in on the melody.

Abby had just walked down and stood opposite Tom. Knowing Rosemary was next, Lee watched with anticipation for a glimpse of his wife. As she turned down the aisle, Lee's heart skipped as his gaze locked with Rosie's. Seeing her mouth form the words "I love you," Lee repeated them to her. She moved into her spot next to Abby, then finally taking her eyes off her husband, Rosemary looked toward the back where Elizabeth would soon be making an appearance.

Jack watched through the gaps of the trees that lined the grassy area behind the back row of chairs. He could feel his heart beat a little faster just at the thought of her walking down an aisle toward him. A slight breeze cooled his face as his anticipation grew. He hadn't seen his wife since the previous afternoon and missed her more than he thought he would after only a day. Aware that it wasn't his wedding, Jack couldn't believe how nervous he was to see Elizabeth, as familiar feelings from his own special day began to emerge.

A flash of pale green appeared between two spruces. Shifting his gaze to the next gap, he saw her auburn hair pass by. Moving his eyes to the next opening, he saw her crystal blue eyes staring back at him. Elizabeth moved into the space of the trees, where the ladies turned right to walk down the aisle formed by the white, wooden folding chairs. When he saw her, Jack's breath caught in his throat, making it hard to breathe for a brief moment.

In Jack's mind, Elizabeth's dress began to morph into a long white gown with a lace bodice. The vision of her on their wedding day was as clear as if they'd just gotten married yesterday. She was on her father's arm, her hair was mostly down with only the sides pulled back, and she looked at Jack with an innocent desire. He could recall every intimate detail of her from that day: the simplicity of her makeup, the few wisps of hair that constantly fell across her face that he'd gently tuck away, the nervous sweat that covered her palms. She was - and still is - his vision of perfection.

Her dress was green again as Jack blinked away the image. Seeing her now, the mother of his children, the soulmate that completed his life, Jack wanted her and loved her even more on this day than nearly six years ago.

Elizabeth couldn't take her eyes off her husband. She found herself getting lost in the hazel eyes that seemed to be cutting through her soul, reaching depths that only Jack was familiar with. Getting lost in the moment, as they frequently did with one another, Elizabeth felt as if she was floating across the grass. As she passed the row with Charlotte, Frank, Sam, and the kids, Peyton leaned into the aisle.

"Hi, Mommy," she whispered loudly.

Getting pulled back to reality, Elizabeth moved her eyes to her daughter. "Hi, Pey," Elizabeth said softly.

Chuckles could be heard around the little girl from people sitting near enough to have listened to the exchange.

"You look really pretty."

"Thank you, sweetie," Elizabeth said as she passed the row.

She returned her eyes to her husband, who had never released her from his gaze. Her heart began to beat harder beneath her skin, and she thought for sure if she looked down, she could see her chest move with the beats. As she neared the front, she wanted nothing more than to walk to his side but took her place beside Rosemary, pried her eyes from Jack, and looked to the opening where Faith would soon be.

"Geez, Beth. You two looked like you could just eat each other up," Rosemary whispered into her friend's ear.

Elizabeth felt her cheeks warm as she looked at Rosemary.

"Seriously, the intensity between you is palpable," Rosie added, only for them to hear.

"What can I say?" Elizabeth asked with a grin and a shrug.

"Obviously, you two don't have to say a word to each other," Rosemary teased.

The music changed, and everyone stood and focused their attention on the wide space between the trees. Faith, with her arm looped with her father's, turned down the aisle.

The bridal party looked at Walker, who, with no lack of trying, couldn't keep the tears at bay at the sight of his bride.

…..

"You look amazing, Elizabeth," a whispered voice filled her ear.

Elizabeth turned around, only to feel Jack's lips cover hers. With racing hearts, one matching the pace of the other, the couple separated simply due to the need for life-supporting air.

"I don't know if it's because we're at a wedding, or because we haven't seen each other for a day, or simply the fact that you look...," Jack held Elizabeth's arms and scanned her body once more. "You...look...gorgeous. But I haven't been able to take my eyes off you since I got a glimpse of you between the trees."

"I think it's a combination of all of the above," Elizabeth said as she slipped her arms around his waist. "You look hot, Cowboy. I can't wait to get you home."

"Oh," Jack said, his voice scooping up an octave. "Well, we might have to break outta here early."

Elizabeth giggled and pressed her forehead to his chest.

"Someone wants her momma," Charlotte said as she shifted Brianna in her arms. "She won't take her bottle."

Elizabeth took her daughter, who immediately began to root around her mother's chest.

"Well, I can see what she wants," Elizabeth laughed. "I'll be right back," she said, then began walking toward the backdoor of the house.

"How are you doing, Ma?" Jack asked as he put his arm around her shoulders. "By the way, you look beautiful," he added, then kissed her cheek.

"Oh, Jack. Stop that," she said and brushed him away. "And I'm doing just fine."

"Where's Pops?"

"He's visiting with Walker's parents."

"He did a wonderful service today. I love to hear him speak."

"Yes, he loves doing weddings. He still talks about yours and Beth's."

"Really?" Jack asked.

"Yes. And today, you and Beth," Charlotte mentioned as she stepped around to face Jack.

"What about Beth and me?"

"You two looked at each other as if today was your wedding day. It's beautiful."

"I can't get her out of my head. And when she was walking down the aisle, I could picture her in her wedding dress."

"I am so happy that you found your one." Charlotte lifted her hand to her son's cheek and held it briefly.

"Thanks, Ma." Jack wrapped his mother in his arms and kissed the side of her head. "I love you, Ma. I just hope you know how much."

"I do, Jack. I've always known."

"What's going on here?" Tom asked as he put his arms around his mom and his brother.

"Nothing but our mother loving on her favorite son," Jack said with a smirk.

"Oh, she just tells you that so your feelings don't get hurt. I'm actually her favorite."

"Oh, you boys. You're both my favorite," she said as she moved an arm around each son.

"But I'm your favorite favorite, right?" Jack asked.

"In your dreams, Brother," Tom stated.

Charlotte grabbed her son's chins, squeezing each, and gently shook their heads. "You two just behave."

"Now, what's the fun in that?" Jack asked. He wrapped his arms around his mother's waist and spun her around in a circle.

Gently smacking his shoulders and laughing, she squealed as she tried to speak. "Jack...put...me down." Once safely returned to her feet, she looked back and forth between her sons. "I am so proud of both of you. You found your perfect mates, you're raising beautiful children, and you're spreading the word of God. I can't ask for more perfect sons."

"Ma," Tom said.

"I mean it. You have grown into the men I'd always prayed you'd be."

"And that's why," Jack responded.

"What?" Charlotte asked.

"We are where we are because you never lost your faith in us. You loved us unconditionally, prayed for us constantly, and set high standards for us to follow."

"That's true, Ma," Tom added. "Your unwavering faith set us up for nothing but success."

"What's going on?" Sam asked as she wrapped her arms around her husband's waist. Her chest was against his back, and Tom laid his hand on her arm.

"Ma was explaining to Jack why I am her favorite son," Tom answered.

"Oh, good grief, Tom," Charlotte started. "You two boys are relentless."

"You're my favorite husband if that helps you feel any better," Sam said with a grin.

"Well, I'm sure glad to hear that," Tom replied. He turned, grabbed Sam around the waist, and carried her to the dance floor.

"She's full, burped, and changed," Elizabeth said, rejoining her family.

"I'll take her," Jack said as he reached for his daughter.

"May I have her back?" Charlotte asked with her arms out. "Frank was wanting to hold her."

"Of course, Mom," Elizabeth replied, handing her daughter to Charlotte.

Jack pulled Elizabeth to the dance floor, where Tom and Sam, Lee and Rosemary, and several other couples were already wrapped in each other's arms. Jack drew Elizabeth in close as he encircled her tightly with his arms. They moved slowly to the music, and as one song ended, it transitioned to Mean to Me by Brett Eldridge. Familiar with the song and its words, Jack tightened his arms, bringing his wife close enough that Elizabeth could feel his heartbeat against her own chest. She felt his lips brush against her ear, sending chills throughout her body. As Brett's voice filled the air, Jack's filled Elizabeth's ear.

"If I could be the reason your hair's a mess,
The bass drum beatin' way down deep in your chest,
If I could be the voice on your radio,
Then I could be your long ride home.

If mine could be the name that changes yours
The wine in your glass
The swing on your porch
The dollar in your pocket
And the peaceful in your sleep
Then I'd be what you mean to me

Standing here
Watching you
Turning every head in this crowded room
The lights down low
Dancin slow
Oh, if falling's how you feel
And perfect is what you see
Then I'd be what you mean to me"

Jack moved a hand into the back of Elizabeth's hair, weaving his fingers through the long tresses. He pulled back gently, tipping her face up towards his, and pressed his lips to hers. She laid her forehead against his chest as he began to sing once more.

"If I could be the fire in your firefly,
The cool in the rain,
The spark in your eye,
The answer to your prayer,
And the faith that sets you free,
Then I'd be what you mean to me.

Standing here,
Watching you,
Turning every head in this crowded room,
The lights down low,
Dancin slow,
Oh, if falling's how you feel,
And perfect is what you see,
Then I'd be what you mean to me,
What you mean to me

And oh, all of this talkin' makes you laugh,
But I've gotta let you know just how I feel
While I'm standing here,
Watching you,
Turning every head in this crowded room,
And the lights down low,
Dancin slow,
Oh, if falling's how you feel,
And perfect is what you see,
Then I'd be what you mean to me."

Elizabeth leaned back and looked up at her husband. Jack framed her face with his hands and gently kissed her. "We need to get out of here."

Elizabeth giggled as she held his gaze with hers.

"I'm serious," Jack said. "I want to take you home...and now."

"What about the kids, your family, and our friends."

"Ma and Frank can bring the kids." Jack brushed his hands along her face and neck, locking his fingers into her hair again. "I need you right now," he reiterated in a low, breathy voice.

Seeing the yearning in his eyes, Elizabeth felt a heated wave wash over her. "Okay."

Jack took her hand and led her through the crowd to his mother. Frank was holding Brianna, Peyton was on Charlotte's lap, and Blake and Colton were playing with Austin.

"Ma," Jack started, getting his mother's attention. When she looked up at him, he continued. "Beth and I are going to run home. Can you and Pops bring the kids later?"

Charlotte looked back and forth between her children. Seeing the flushed look on Jack's face and Elizabeth's burning cheeks, her lips curled into a small smile.

"Sure. We'd love to spend some more time with them."

"Thanks, Ma," Jack said as he bent down and kissed her cheek.

Finding Faith and Walker, they said their goodbyes and were quickly in the truck and driving down the road.

…..

Elizabeth lay on the mattress as Jack walked toward her. He unbuttoned his shirt as he moved closer. Dropping the shirt to the floor, he crawled above his wife, slid his arm beneath her back, and shifted her up the bed until her head rested on the pillow.

"I have wanted you all day," Jack said as he scanned her face. "That dress, your hair, the whole package. You looked incredible."

Elizabeth pulled Jack down until their lips connected, showing him how much she wanted him, too. "You were looking mighty handsome today, too, Cowboy." Elizabeth slid her hands into the back pockets of his jeans and pulled his hips down.

"Oh, Mrs. Thornton. You are feeling frisky this evening," Jack chuckled, then covered her lips with his.

…..

May 17th, 2015 – Crossroads Cowboy Church

"Hey, Pops," Jack said as he hugged his stepfather. "Happy birthday."

"Thank you, Jack," Frank replied, hugging him back.

"Great service this morning," Jack added.

"Thanks. The feeling of compromise weighed heavily on my mind. I don't know who needed to hear it, but I hope it reached them."

"I'm sure it did, Pops. Your sermons have a way of doing that," Jack said with a grin.

"I'm glad my words reached you."

Jack hugged Frank once more, tighter and longer this time. "You have no idea how thankful I am for you. And not just in my life," Jack said quietly into Frank's ear.

Frank's arms tightened around Jack, and he patted his stepson's back. "I'm very thankful for you, too. If you had never walked into that meeting that evening, I would have never met your mother. We helped each other."

"There's a lot of love being handed out over here," Tom said as he approached the men. Jack stepped back, allowing Tom to move in. "Happy birthday, Pops," he said as he hugged Frank.

"Thank you, Tom."

Moving next to Frank, Tom laid his hand on his stepfather's shoulder. "So, what restaurant did you pick for lunch today?"

…..

"That was yummy!" Colton shouted as they got out of the SUV in front of their house. "Yummy, yummy, yummy! Can we go play on the playground? Daddy, come play with us."

"Well, Beautiful, you were right. I really need to make them share the desserts and not eat the whole piece of cake alone."

"I did warn you," Elizabeth said, trying to hide her amusement.

"Go ahead and laugh. I know you want to."

"Daddy, Daddy, Daddy, let's go play!" Peyton yelled as she jumped up and down.

"Alright, let's go," Jack said, throwing his arms up in defeat.

"Yeah! Race ya!" Blake shouted as the three tore across the yard and around the house.

"You'd think I'd learn," Jack said. He kissed Elizabeth's cheek and started running toward his kids.

With Brianna in her arms, Elizabeth walked to the side of the house to watch her family. Jack had caught up to his children, and their screams and laughter could be heard across the ranch as they tried to escape his tickling fingers.

….

June 28th, 1986 – Thornton Ranch

Six-year-old Jack watched from the passenger seat as his father would lift his fingers from the steering wheel each time they met a vehicle on the gravel road. After the fifth time, Jack finally asked his father about it.

"Daddy, why do you keep raising your fingers?"

"I'm waving at the drivers we meet on the road," Thomas answered, smiling at his son.

"Why do you do that?"

"It's just the friendly thing to do. Most people used to wave at each other years ago; now, it seems like only country folk do it. So, I do my part and still wave at my neighbors."

"But that wasn't our neighbor. Todd is our neighbor, and that wasn't Todd."

"A neighbor can be someone in the same area; they don't have to live right next door."

"Oh, ok," young Jack replied.

And with that, each vehicle they met on the road, Jack held his hand up and waved at the drivers, just like his daddy.

…..

May 19th, 2015 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Jack was driving down a back country road. One that flanked the west side of his property, then Tom's. For each vehicle he met, he would raise his fingers from the steering wheel and receive a wave in return. Jack reached to the radio and turned the volume up slightly to hear the song that was currently playing: Watching You by Rodney Atkins.

Driving through town just my boy and me
With a happy meal in his booster seat
Knowing that he couldn't have the toy
'Till his nuggets were gone

Green traffic light turned straight to red
I hit my brakes and mumbled under my breath
His fries went a flying and his orange drink covered his lap
Well then, my four-year-old said a four-letter word
That started with "s" and I was concerned
So, I said son now where did you learn to talk like that

He said I've been watching you dad, ain't that cool
I'm your buckaroo, I wanna be like you
And eat all my food and grow as tall as you are
We got cowboy boots and camo pants
Yeah, we're just alike, hey ain't we dad
I wanna do everything you do
So, I've been watching you

Jack was singing along when he heard Blake join in. Not knowing the lyrics, Colton joined in on the melody with his own words.

"I watch you. I watch you, Daddy. That's cool. Buckaroo. I'll eat my food. Tall like you. Cowboy boots, camo pants. Hey, Dad. I wanna watch you."

Jack chuckled as he and Blake sang the actual lyrics while listening to Colton and his rendition.

We got back home and I went to the barn
I bowed my head and I prayed real hard
Said lord please help me help my stupid self
Then this side of bedtime later that night
Turning on my son's Scooby Doo nightlight
He crawled out of bed and he got down on his knees
He closed his little eyes, folded his little hands
And spoke to God like he was talking to a friend
And I said son now where'd you learn to pray like that

He said I've been watching you dad, ain't that cool
I'm your buckaroo, I wanna be like you
And eat all my food and grow as tall as you are
We like fixing things and holding mama's hand
Yeah, we're just alike, hey ain't we dad
I wanna do everything you do
So, I've been watching you

With tears in my eyes, I wrapped him in a hug
Said my little bear is growing up
And he said but when I'm big I'll still know what to do

Cause I've been watching you dad, ain't that cool
I'm your buckaroo, I wanna be like you
And eat all my food and grow as tall as you are
By then I'll be as strong as superman
We'll be just alike, hey won't we dad
When I can do everything you do
Cause I've been watching you

"That's a good one!" Colton shouted when the song ended.

"Is it?" Jack asked with a laugh.

"Yeah. Cause it's true," Blake added.

Jack looked over his shoulder at his sons in the backseat. They were both smiling at him, grinning ear to ear, excited to spend the day with their daddy.

Turning left onto the road that led to Tom's, Jack met another truck and gave the driver a wave.

"Do you know everybody?" Blake asked.

"What, Blake?"

"Do you know everybody?"

"What do you mean?"

"You wave at everybody we see on the road. So, you must know them, right?"

A smile formed on Jack's lips, then he shared with them what his father had told him.

…..

That evening, as the family held hands and began to bow their heads, Blake leaned to Jack and asked, "Can I say the prayer tonight?"

Elizabeth's gaze darted to Jack, as Blake had never asked this before. Jack looked at his wife, smiled, then returned his attention to his son.

"Of course, Blake. Go ahead," Jack said and nodded.

"Okay. Close your eyes Pey and Colt," he said. Once his siblings' eyes were closed, he bowed his head and began. "Dear, God. Thank You for all this yummy food. Thank You for a great mommy and daddy and brother and sisters. Thank You for our horses and Wyatt. Oh, and please tell Mommy that I said hello. Amen."

"Amen," Jack repeated.

"Amen. Amen," the twins mimicked.

"That was wonderful, Blake," Elizabeth said. "Great job."

As they ate, Elizabeth leaned to Jack and whispered into his ear. "Where did that come from?"

"A song," he replied with a grin. Seeing the confused look on his wife's face, he added. "I'll tell you about it later."

…..

May 20th, 2015 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Elizabeth was upstairs bathing Brianna while Jack prepared lunch. Blake and the twins were in the kitchen with him, helping as they could. Blake was standing on a step stool in front of the island and, under Jack's watchful eye, was carefully slicing a cucumber. Peyton climbed onto the stool alongside her brother, and, seeing the cucumber, she reached to grab a piece.

"Peyton!" Jack shouted, but it was too late.

Not seeing his sister, Blake brought the knife down, catching edge of Peyton's hand.

A bloodcurdling scream filled the house as Jack ran to his daughter, feeling as if his stomach had been left where he'd been standing. He grabbed a nearby towel and tightly wrapped it around her hand. Hearing her daughter's cry, Elizabeth pulled Brianna from the small tub on the bathroom counter, wrapped a towel around her, and ran down the steps.

Peyton was crying so hard that she began hyperventilating. Jack tried to calm her, but the excessive crying eventually caused his daughter to pass out for a brief moment.

"Peyton!" Jack shouted, his heart stopping at the limp life in his arms. "Peyton!" he shouted louder.

"What happened?" Elizabeth asked, running into the kitchen. "Oh, my gosh!" Elizabeth's eyes were wide and her mouth dropped open as soon as she saw the blood across the counter. Moving her gaze to Jack, she saw Peyton lying limply in his arms. "Oh, my gosh!" she shouted once more.

Peyton's eyes opened, and after lifting her head, she began to cry again.

"Call Ma," Jack said as he carried his daughter to the living room. "Get her over here to watch the kids. We need to get her to the emergency room."

Jack sat on the couch and positioned Peyton on his lap so he could inspect her hand closer. With Brianna in one arm, Elizabeth removed her phone from her pocket and called Charlotte. She stood over Jack, staring at the blood-stained towel, and watched as Jack slowly unwrapped it.

Blood was still streaming from her hand, and Jack could see a deep cut through the flesh. "She needs stitches, but it's better than I thought."

As Elizabeth ended her call to Charlotte and turned around, she spotted Blake peeking around the corner of the wall with tear-filled eyes. Colton was behind him, gripping his older brother's shirt. Elizabeth swiftly moved to her sons and knelt in front of them.

"She's going to be just fine. We just have to take her to the doctor to get some stitches," Elizabeth said as she brushed her hand along Blake's cheek.

"Does she still have all her fingers?" Blake asked.

"Oh, Blakey. Yes, she has all of her fingers."

"It's my fault," Blake stated as his tears flowed harder.

"What's your fault?"

"Blake was cutting a cucumber when Pey reached for a bite," Colton replied.

"See, it's my fault."

"Blake, no, it isn't. It was an accident. Did you cut her on purpose?"

"No."

"Then it was just an accident. She's going to be fine."

The front door flew open, and Charlotte ran toward the kitchen. Not seeing Peyton, she turned and spotted Jack, then ran toward him.

"How is she?" Charlotte asked as she sat next to her son.

Peyton was lying quietly in Jack's arms now, her body shaking with each breath in. Jack held her hand above her head with the towel wrapped snuggly around it again.

"She's better. We need to get to the emergency room, though."

"Of course," Charlotte said, then walked to Elizabeth. "I'll take Brianna, and you three get going."

…..

Jack and Elizabeth stood by the bed while the doctor carefully turned Peyton's hand, inspecting the severity of the wound. Elizabeth held her daughter's good hand against her cheek, while speaking softly and brushing her other hand along her hair. Peyton's tear-filled eyes were locked on her mommy's, concentrating on her voice to help her feel safe.

Jack's left hand rested on his daughter's thigh, while his head was lying in his right. Feeling responsible for his daughter's pain and feeling helpless, it took everything in him to stay strong for his little girl and keep his tears hidden. Each time she cried out, Jack felt as if his heart was being ripped from his chest.

"It's a clean cut," the doctor started. "She'll need six or seven stitches as it's fairly deep. We'll get started on that now."

A nurse pulled a stool up to the side of the bed, and with a Q-tip covered with numbing cream, she began to gently rub it around the wound.

"Owie!" Peyton cried out. "Oww...weeee."

Jack buried his face deeper into his hand, keeping his other on his daughter. It was tearing him up inside, and he wished to God that he could be in her place and be the one feeling the pain.

"It's going to be over soon," Elizabeth said in an even, soft, and calming voice. "You're such a brave girl." She continued to rub her thumb along Peyton's forehead, keeping her little girl's eyes locked with her own.

Once the numbing gel had taken affect, the nurse began to flush the wound with saline. The doctor stepped in next, held his hand out for a syringe, then proceed to inject anesthetic into the skin along the cut.

Elizabeth continued talking to Peyton about different things the little girl like to do, distracting her from what the doctor was doing. She glanced at Jack a few times, each time seeing him hiding his face and gripping onto his daughter's leg.

The doctor stood and looked down at Peyton. "There you go, sweetie. All done."

"All done?" Peyton asked, looking at her hand. "What's that?"

"You have to keep your hand wrapped up for a while to keep all the dirt and germies out of your cut."

"The germies? Ewww," Peyton said as she wrinkled her nose.

Jack lifted his head for the first time, after hearing his daughter's voice.

"There's an antibiotic cream over the wound," the doctor said, speaking to Jack and Elizabeth now. "You'll need to change her wrap daily and reapply the cream for the first few days. Keep it dry, don't let her get the sutures wet. Come back in a week and we'll take a look at it and see about getting the sutures removed." The doctor leaned over Peyton and pulled something from his pocket. "You were a very brave little girl today. Probably the bravest that I've ever seen."

"Really?" Peyton asked, her eyes wide.

"Yes. And this is for you," he said as he handed her a sucker. "And nurse Jenny has some coloring books that you can choose from."

"Coloring books? I love coloring books."

Jack watched as Elizabeth held Peyton on her lap. The excited little girl was going through her choices, trying to choose the perfect one. She finally settled on Repunzal, because there was a horsie on a few of the pages.

Elizabeth kept a watchful eye on Peyton as they left the hospital and drove home. She also kept an eye on Jack, who, for the entire drive home, remained silent.

Once in front of the house, Elizabeth climbed down from the truck, then helped her daughter out. As Peyton ran up the steps to the house, Elizabeth stepped back to the open door of the truck.

"Are you okay?" Jack looked at his wife, and she could see tears forming. "Peyton is fine, honey."

"I know," he answered, giving her an obvious forced smile. "I'm going to park the truck in the garage, then I'll be in."

"Okay," Elizabeth answered, her voice very soft, as if she was calming her daughter again. She slowly closed the door and walked to the front porch. Elizabeth watched from the top step as Jack pulled forward. The garage door opened, and Jack drove the truck inside, closing the door behind him.

…..

"Where's Daddy?" Peyton asked from the couch. She'd been laying along the cushions with her head on a pillow, watching Cinderella while Blake and Colton played and Elizabeth visited with Charlotte.

"Wasn't he just parking the truck," Charlotte asked, looking at her watch. "It's been over half an hour."

"Do you mind watching the kids so I can check on him?"

"Of course."

Elizabeth opened the door to the garage to find it empty and the lights off. She walked up the stairs that led to Jack's office, seeing the door open and light spilling out onto the landing. Stepping inside, she saw Jack sitting at his desk. He was in his office chair, his elbows on his knees, and his face was buried in his palms.

She quietly crossed the room and knelt beside him. "Jack?" she asked softly.

Jack sat up quickly, having not heard her enter. "Hey," he replied, reaching out to touch her cheek. "I'm sorry, I'll be in soon."

"What's going on? You haven't said five words since we left for the hospital. And please, don't tell me it's nothing. I can tell something is really wrong."

"I feel like a failure as a father."

"What?" she asked, completely shocked by his comment. "Jack, you are as far from a failure as anyone could be. You're a perfect father. Why would you say that?"

"Because if I hadn't let Blake cut the cucumbers, Peyton wouldn't have gotten hurt. It's my fault she's hurt. And hearing her cry like that just ripped my heart from my chest."

Elizabeth took Jack's hands in hers. "Jack, just like I told Blake, it was an accident. It could have happened to any of us."

"Not you. You would have known enough not to let a five-year-old use a knife."

"You don't know that. The kids help me in the kitchen all the time. I doubt I would have done anything differently."

"I know you would have. This wouldn't have happened if you'd been in the kitchen." Jack leaned back in the chair, pulling his hands from hers.

"Jack Ashton Thornton," she said as she stood. "Stop thinking like this. You have no idea what I would have done or what would have happened. I've let the kids cut up things before."

Jack's eyes tracked from the spot on the wall that he'd been staring at to his wife. "You have?"

"Yes, Jack," she said. Elizabeth moved to the desk, sat on the edge, and took Jack's hands in hers again. "I have."

"I still feel awful."

"And I would, too. But it wouldn't make me a failure; it would make me a mother."

"You're a great mother," Jack said as he squeezed her hands.

"And you're a great father."

Jack breathed in slowly, then let out a hard breath. Then suddenly, his body shook, and he began to cry. "My baby girl," was all he could say.

Elizabeth moved to Jack's lap and wrapped her arms around his neck. "She's okay, Jack."

"I will never get that scream out of my head," he stated as he tightened his arms around his wife and buried his face in her hair.

Elizabeth held him, allowing her husband to work through his emotions. Once his body settled, Elizabeth released her hold in order to look into his eyes. "I'm so sorry."

Jack slid his hand down her arm, resting it on her thigh. "Why are you sorry?"

"Because you had to go through this. I'm sorry I wasn't in the kitchen helping you."

Jack quickly moved his hands to her cheeks, cupping her face. "You were busy with Brianna. Please don't ever say anything like that."

"Peyton is going to be just fine, Jack. I can't tell you that enough. Please, just go into the house and see her. She's watching Cinderella and singing along to every song."

"Really?"

"Yes. And I bet she'd love it if you watched it with her."

Jack let out another hard breath and nodded his head. "Okay."

Elizabeth stood, took Jack's hands, and pulled him to his feet. He slid his hand into hers, and the two walked to the house side-by-side. When they entered the house, Jack saw Blake sitting next to his sister, his arm draped around her, and her head was on his shoulder.

"Oh, Jack," Elizabeth said when she saw them. "Blake blames himself, too."

Jack turned and looked at his wife. "He does?"

"Yes, he was very upset."

Jack crossed the room and walked around the couch. He lifted Peyton, sat down, and placed her on his lap. Putting his arm around Blake, he pulled his son against him and held both of his children.

"Are you okay, Daddy?" Peyton asked him.

"Yes, sweetie. Are you?"

"I'm okay, Daddy. See," she said and lifted her bandaged hand, "It doesn't hurt much."

"That's good, baby."

Jack remained on the couch as they finished Cinderella. The three were quiet, except for the few times Peyton would sing along with the movie. When it ended, Peyton slid off Jack's lap to find her mommy, leaving Jack and Blake alone.

"How are you doing?" Jack asked his son.

"Fine."

"You don't look fine."

Blake looked up at Jack and stared into his eyes. "Neither do you."

"Well, I'm not."

"Really? Why?" Blake asked.

Jack turned sideways on the couch to face his son. "Because I blamed myself for what happened to your sister."

"It wasn't your fault. It was my fault."

"It wasn't," Jack said as he shook his head. "I'm the adult, the parent. It's my job to ensure you guys stay safe and do safe things."

"But I cut her."

"And I allowed you to use the knife and didn't see Pey get on the stool in time."

"I help Mommy cut stuff up."

"Yes, and you do a great job. My job was to keep all of you safe."

"Mommy said it wasn't anyone's fault. She said it was an accident."

Jack let out a small, quick breath and nodded his head. "Your mommy is a very smart woman."

"Yes, she is. She's a teacher. Teachers are smart."

Chuckling, Jack replied, "That's right, buddy. Teachers are very smart. So, how about we both listen to Mommy and believe her that it's not our fault."

"Okay, Daddy."

"But, we learn from this and will be more careful from now on. And Peyton will have to be more careful."

"Okay. That's a good idea."

"Blakey, want to play?" Colton called out from the bottom step.

"Are we done talking, Daddy?" Blake asked.

"Yes, go play with your brother," Jack replied.

The little boy hurried to join Colton, and the pair ran up to their bedroom. Peyton was baking cookies in the kitchen with Charlotte, and Elizabeth carried Brianna into the living room. She lowered her daughter into Jack's arms, and Jack held her close to his face as he breathed in her baby scent.

"I thought maybe you could use a little baby therapy," Elizabeth commented with a smile as she sat down next to her husband.

"Most definitely," he replied. "Thank you."

"I heard you talking with Blake. You both seem better."

Jack put his free arm around Elizabeth while cradling Brianna in the other. "That's because you're a teacher, and teachers are really smart."

…..

May 21st, 2015 - Hope Meadows Ranch

Elizabeth rolled over in bed, opened her eyes, and saw Peyton snuggled against Jack. She was sound asleep with her daddy's arm around her. Elizabeth's eyes moved to Jack's, who was staring back at her.

"Good morning, Beautiful," Jack said, barely above a whisper.

"How long has she been in here?"

"Since 2:30. I couldn't sleep, so I went in to check on her. She was moaning in her sleep, so I brought her in here."

Elizabeth reached over her daughter and laid her hand on Jack's cheek. "See. A perfect father."

"I don't know about that," he said. He took her hand, held her palm to his lips, and kissed it.

"Well, you seem pretty perfect to me," she said softly with a sweet smile.

Peyton rolled in Jack's arms to face him. Her face was pressed to his chest, and Jack moved back slightly to give her more air. He gently ran his hand down the back of her head, feeling the silkiness of her brown hair. The hand with the bandage was draped across his ribs, and he was conscientious not to bump it.

Wyatt had been sleeping on the floor at the foot of the bed, and upon hearing his owner's voices, he leaped onto the bed and laid alongside Elizabeth.

"Good morning, boy," she said as she scratched his head.

Wyatt stretched and licked the underside of Elizabeth's chin, then rolled to his side to allow Elizabeth to scratch his belly. She did as requested, and the dog rolled onto his back with his legs in the air. Jack laughed at the dog's silliness and reached his hand out to join in the belly rubs. Wyatt moaned as his owners loved on him, causing Jack and Elizabeth to laugh out loud.

Peyton rolled onto her back, and seeing Jack, she grinned and threw her arms around his neck. Having forgotten about her hand, she smacked it on Jack's arm and instantly began to cry. Jack sat up, pulled her onto his lap, and wrapped an arm around her while holding her hand up with the other. He rocked her as he spoke tenderly, calming her down. Jack wiped the tears from her cheeks once she'd stopped crying, and she put her arms around him. Jack leaned back against the pillow, keeping his daughter against his chest.

Brianna had woken from the noise, and Elizabeth was nursing her while Jack tended to Peyton. Elizabeth's heart overflowed for her husband as she watched the gentle and loving nature he held for his children. He spoke to her softly, as he had many times with the horses and quickly eased her fear and pain. She was molded into her daddy's body, feeling safe in his arms, and was soon back to sleep.

"That, right there, should squash all doubts you have about yourself as a father," Elizabeth said, keeping her voice low.

Jack looked down at his daughter, seeing a sense of peace on her face as she slept in his arms. He nodded his head and then looked at his wife. "Okay, I get it," he said as a smile crossed his lips.

"She doesn't blame you or anyone else. She comes to you for comfort, and she receives it. Your children know you love them and will be there whenever they need you."

"Yes, I will be," he agreed, looking down at Peyton again. "She's beautiful." Returning his gaze to his wife, he added, "Like you."

A thundering of feet echoed through the house as Blake and Colton ran to their parents' room. When the door was opened, Jack already had a finger to his lips, silencing the boys. Seeing their sisters asleep, they carefully climbed onto the bed and rested against the headboard between Jack and Elizabeth.

Blake looked over Jack's arm at Peyton, then asked, "Is she okay?"

"Yes. Her hand hurt a little, but she'll be fine."

Blake leaned against his daddy's arm, as Jack picked up the remote with the other. He turned the cartoon on with the volume low, and Blake and Colton watched VeggieTales while their sisters slept.