Within two months, Brian Jones had stood trial and been convicted of his crimes. He was sentenced to life in prison without parole. Nathan was glad to have the whole thing finally behind them. From the courtroom, he watched as the guards led Brian away, never to hurt another innocent person again.
"Well done, Grant," Bill said, clapping Nathan on the shoulder. "When we get back to the station, come to my office. There's something I want to discuss with you."
"Yes, sir," Nathan replied.
The drive to the station was a quiet one. Nathan left the radio off and simply listened to the sound of the breeze blowing through his open car windows. Strong relief poured through him as the knowledge settled over him that the case was finally over. A twenty year cold case had been solved, the killers brought to justice, and answers given to the families.
When he reached the station, he headed straight for Bill's office. The door was open. Nathan peered inside. "Chief?"
"Come in, Nathan," Bill said, displaying a rare use of Nathan's first name.
Surprised, Nathan tried to mask his features as he took a seat across from Bill, waiting for him to explain what he wanted to talk about.
"I'm retiring," Bill said without preamble.
Nathan gaped. "You're...what?" he gasped. Bill had been at the station for years. He'd been there when Nathan first became a police officer. He was retiring?
Bill nodded. "It's time," he said. "I have some nieces and nephews in Florida who have been asking me to come live there. Since they're the only family I have left, I thought it might be nice to leave the islands and start a new life." He was quiet for a moment. "I've been considering retirement for a while now. Something always held me back. But now, with Eliana's killer found and the case solved, I finally feel like I have some closure. I feel like I can retire without regrets."
Nathan felt himself choking up. Bill might be gruff, but he had been a mentor to Nathan for a very long time. He couldn't imagine the station without him. "We'll miss you, Chief," he said honestly.
A wry smile crossed Bill's face. "You'll get along well enough without me," he said. "Especially with the replacement I have in mind."
"Is it anyone we know?" Nathan asked, trepidation filling him. Bill was the only police chief he'd worked for, and he knew it might be difficult finding a balance with a new person in charge.
"Yes," Bill said, shuffling papers on his desk casually. "You."
Nathan blinked, certain he'd heard wrong. "Me?"
Bill's smile became a grin. "Yes, you, Nathan. Why does that surprise you?"
Nathan sputtered for a moment, shock filling his entire body. "You've never indicated before that you thought I should be chief," he said finally. "There are other detectives more qualified than myself, surely!"
Bill chuckled. "I've never worked with someone more capable than you, son. I think you'll do a fine job as chief of police here in our little town. The board has already approved you to take my place. All that waits is your acceptance." He steepled his fingers, looking at Nathan. "It's a less dangerous job than being a detective or even an officer. I'm sure your family would appreciate that."
They would. Nathan knew Elizabeth valued his safety. Being able to put her mind at ease, even by a marginal degree, would be a blessing. Tears stung his eyes and he struggled for composure. "I don't know what to say, Chief."
Bill smiled. "Take some time to think it over, Nathan. Talk to your wife. But I'll need an answer by the end of the week. I intend to be with my family before the month is out."
Nathan stood. "Yes, sir," he said, smiling back. "Thank you."
Bill held out his hand, and Nathan shook it. He left the office in a state of awe. Him, the next chief of police? It hadn't been his goal for the future, but he realized what an honor it would be.
He couldn't wait to tell Elizabeth.
"The chief of police?" Elizabeth gasped, staring at Nathan with wide eyes. "Seriously?"
Her husband nodded, something inscrutable shining in his eyes. "I could hardly believe it," he admitted. "I had no idea Bill was planning to retire, and even less idea that I would ever be asked to be chief."
"Wow. That's a great honor," Elizabeth said, touching his shoulder. "Did you accept?"
He shook his head. "Not without talking to you. This is a decision both of us should make."
Her response was quick and certain. "You should take it."
He quirked a brow, a smile appearing on his face. "You think so?"
Elizabeth nodded. "Absolutely. You've earned it, Nathan. I wholeheartedly support you in this."
Nathan pulled her close and rested his head against hers. "Thank you," he whispered. She could feel him smile against her hair. "I guess I'll give Bill my answer."
Elizabeth grinned. "Wonderful! Then we can announce to our friends at tomorrow's dinner that you've been promoted." She paused. "Speaking of that dinner, I need ingredients for the cake I'm making."
"I'll go," Nathan offered. "What do you need?"
"Let me make a list." Elizabeth headed for the kitchen, shooting her husband a smile. "I'm making a lemon raspberry cake."
Recognition lit Nathan's face. "The first one you made at one of our game nights," he said softly. "I'll never forget that. And that particular cake will always have a special place in my heart."
Elizabeth chuckled, finishing the list and handing it to Nathan with a kiss. "Thank you, love."
After he left, Anthony began fussing. Elizabeth went to his room, hoping to quiet him before he woke up his sisters from their nap.
"Hello, my sweet boy," she cooed, sitting in the rocker and preparing to feed him. "In less than a month we'll be starting you on some baby food. You'll like that, won't you?"
Anthony gazed up at her as he nursed hungrily. Elizabeth smiled. Yes, he would do well with baby food. His appetite was voracious. He only finished when his father returned from the grocery store. Nathan took Anthony and entertained him while Elizabeth made the cake. By the time she finished, the twins had woken from their nap and were clamoring for their parents' attention as well. The family of five sprawled on the floor, playing a game of chase that Arianna and Cecilia adored.
Elizabeth's heart was full. She loved her family fiercely. Their dynamics seemed to be ever-changing, especially with three babies, but she wouldn't change it for the world.
The next evening, at the Coulters, all the original gang was present, along with Steve, Colleen, and Allie. Elizabeth marveled at how much they had all been through together over the past few years. Sometimes she could hardly believe it had been less than five years since she and Nathan met. She could barely remember what life was like without him.
At dinner, Nathan made his announcement about being the new chief of police. Everyone besides Lee was shocked. They quickly recovered and began pouring congratulations and praise on their friend. Elizabeth soaked it all in, delighting in her husband's latest accomplishment. She was so proud of him, thankful that his service to their small town had been acknowledged and rewarded. She couldn't think of anyone more suited to the position than Nathan.
"Looks like you'll be Lee's boss again," Rosemary said, her grin spreading over her entire face.
Nathan chuckled. "True. But it comes with a perk."
Lee raised his brows. "Does it now? Would that perk happen to be you telling me what to do on a regular basis?"
Nathan laughed. "Okay, make that two perks." He winked at his friend, then slowly grew serious. "I plan on promoting Mike to detective as well. I think two are better than one."
"Good!" Lee exclaimed. "Mike is a great choice. He's been ready for some time."
Elizabeth grinned, ready to share some news she had received that morning. "Mike has a promotion and a girl now."
Carson smiled. "We know he's very happy with Viola," he said.
Elizabeth nodded. "He is indeed. In fact, they're engaged!"
"What?!" Lee and Nathan said at the same time, wearing identical looks of surprise.
Elizabeth laughed. "Isn't that wonderful? Viola called me with the news. She's moving here in less than a month!" She clapped her hands. "We have a wedding to plan!"
"That sly sneak!" Lee exclaimed, though his grin belied his words. "We'll have to congratulate him at work tomorrow. He gave no indication of being about to pop the question." He shook his head. "I guess that is a perk to be added to the new job."
"Actually," Nathan said, looking a little more serious. "That wasn't the perk." He rested a hand on Lee's shoulder. "You're being promoted, my friend. You are officially the town's lead detective."
Rosemary squealed in delight as Lee wore another look of surprise. "Really?" he asked.
"Really," Nathan affirmed. "I can't think of anyone I would trust more. You deserve it, my friend."
"Thank you," Lee said, clasping Nathan's shoulder. "I appreciate it."
"This calls for a celebration," Faith said, grinning. "I do believe we have a cake ready."
Elizabeth rose. "We certainly do." She went to get it. When she placed it on the table, the words Congratulations, Lee! were written on the pink frosting in white letters. Once the cake was passed around, everyone began talking at once. Elizabeth tuned into the conversation between Faith and Colleen, joining in with them until two babies began fussing from the other room. She exchanged a look with Faith, laughing lightly. "I think our children are trying to tell us something."
Faith grinned, rising from her seat at the same time as Elizabeth. "Hopefully they just need to be changed. We both fed them not too long ago." They looked down into the bassinet where Anthony and Charity were nestled together, sleeping peacefully. The cries were coming from Cecilia and Arianna, who looked more angry than sad. Elizabeth picked up one daughter to soothe her while Faith scooped up the other. Once the twins had quieted, the two friends turned back to watch the babies sleep.
"You know," Faith said, giving Elizabeth a smile. "It would be interesting if these two one day decided to fall in love and get married." Her smile turned into a grin. "Wouldn't that be a fun full circle moment? You and I have been best friends our whole lives, and then our children would make us related by marriage." She nodded. "I think it's a brilliant plan."
Elizabeth laughed. "I'm all for that. Though it's impossible to know if Anthony and Charity will eventually fall in love. But we do know they'll be good friends." She looked around at the plethora of children. "They all will."
Faith nodded, a serene look on her face. "We've been so blessed," she said softly.
Elizabeth couldn't agree more.
"I have a surprise for you," Nathan said to his wife, nearly bouncing with excitement. In the past few months, they'd barely had any time to spend together one on one. Between Nathan's new job, Viola moving to town, and the children growing like weeds, they hadn't been able to go on a date in far too long. Anthony was nearing his first birthday. Nathan still couldn't believe how quickly time passed. It was as if he had blinked and life flew by.
"What kind of surprise?" Elizabeth asked, eyeing him with curiosity.
He pulled her up from the couch, kissing her soundly in greeting. Elizabeth's arms wrapped around his neck, and they lost themselves in each other for several glorious moments. When he released her, she smiled at him happily. "You're home early."
"I took the afternoon off," he explained. "And Colleen is here. She's going to watch the children while you and I go on a date."
Elizabeth's eyes lit up. "A date? Really?"
"Really," Nathan affirmed. "Wear your swimsuit under your clothes." He winked. "We're going to have a full afternoon."
Once they were ready, Elizabeth hugged Colleen, kissed the children goodbye, and followed Nathan out the door. When they were settled in the car, she looked at him in anticipation. "Where are we going?"
He smiled. "I thought we'd do a few of our favorite things," he said, turning into Faith's café. "I had Faith pack some of your favorite scones for the hike."
"Hike? Oh, Nathan!" Elizabeth's eyes shone with joy. "We haven't been hiking in ages!"
"I know," he chuckled. "It felt like high time we took it up again. With the proper fuel, of course." He hurried into the café, accepting the wrapped scones from Faith with a smile, then went back to the car for the short ride to their hike.
It was the perfect day for hiking. They walked together companionably until they reached the top. The vista was stunning. Ocean stretched as far as the eye could see, looking like a million diamonds with the sun shining on the water. Nathan handed Elizabeth a scone. They savored them together in pleasure.
"Faith's scones are the best," Elizabeth said, polishing off the last of hers. "I don't think I'll ever get tired of them."
"Neither will I," Nathan agreed. He extended his hand to his wife. "Shall we explore the rest of the trail? I hear there's a swimming hole near a waterfall about a mile into the forest."
"Oh, yes, please!" Elizabeth exclaimed. "A swim would feel so good right now."
They made their way to the shaded pool and took off their outer clothes. Nathan set his pack on a large rock, then ventured into the water. Shaded from all the trees in the forest, it was cool and sent shivers racing over his skin. Elizabeth sat perched on a rock, watching him. "Is it cold?" she asked.
He tried to keep his teeth from chattering. He knew he would warm up as his body got used to the temperature change. "It's not too bad," he said. "Definitely an adjustment, though."
"Hmm," Elizabeth said, dipping a toe into the water. "I think I'll wait a few minutes."
Nathan laughed, swimming over to her. "Come on," he said. "It's best to get it all done at once. You know that."
She wrinkled her nose, and Nathan took that moment to splash some water over her legs. She gasped, pulling them back. "Nathan!"
He laughed again, reaching out to her. She dove over his head into the water. When she came up, she was spluttering from the cold. "Brrr!" she said. "I didn't think it would be quite this chilly."
Nathan sidled up behind her, pulling her back flush against his chest. Though it didn't make much of a difference, he felt warmth steal over him. After all this time, he was still amazed at how perfectly her body fit against his. He pressed a kiss to her neck, making her giggle. She turned in his arms, her lips finding his. Nathan lost track of time as they indulged in long, sweet kisses, their hands freely exploring one another.
"Have I mentioned lately how much I love you?" Nathan asked when they finally pulled back for air.
Elizabeth rested her head on his shoulder, buoyed up by the water. "You could tell me a thousand times a day and I would never tire of hearing it," she murmured. "I love you, Nathan."
"I love you, Elizabeth."
She raised her head and found his lips again. Nathan loved that their tender kisses could move him just as much as their passionate ones. No matter what they were facing, no matter what season of life they found themselves in, he knew that with Elizabeth by his side, they could face anything. He was so thankful that she had chosen him as her life love.
He thought back to the day years ago when she had fallen into his life. Nathan never would have thought he'd fall in love with the witness to one of his cases, but he blessed the day they met. The circumstances might not have been ideal, but he didn't care. All that mattered was the beautiful love and the beautiful life they shared.
After an hour of swimming, talking, and kissing, they made their way back to the summit of the hike. The sun was just about to set, so they found a place to sit. Nathan wrapped Elizabeth in his arms, holding her close as they watched the sunset.
"So beautiful," Elizabeth said.
Nathan smiled, looking at her. "Yes, it is."
She saw his look and blushed. Nathan chuckled, pressing a kiss to her cheek. "I love that you still blush at my compliments," he said, teasing yet serious.
Elizabeth smiled, leaning against him. "I hope I never stop," she said softly.
Nathan kissed her again, then nestled his head against her hair. Once the sun had vanished behind the waters, he pulled a flashlight from his pack. Elizabeth regarded him with a tender expression. "Thank you for this lovely date, Nathan," she said. "I'm glad we got to have some alone time."
"Me too," he said, slipping an arm around her. "Now, why don't we pick up a pizza for dinner? Arianna and Cecilia love pizza, and Anthony will be happy to eat some as well."
"Twist my arm," Elizabeth said with a laugh. "If I don't have to cook, that sounds perfect." They laughed together, then headed down the mountain.
Back toward home.
