Author's Note: I decided to move into the Christmas season in my story, since it is fast approaching us in real life.

Chapter 11—Hugs and Kisses

Elizabeth walked down the stairs after putting Jack to bed. Lucas sat on the couch waiting for her and stood up as he saw her descending. He broke into a smile, Elizabeth noticing his eyes were shining.

"I can't believe how easily he took to you, Lucas. He seems to like you almost as much as I do," she teased as she walked up to him. Their faces turned serious as they looked into one another's eyes. Lucas had been patiently waiting to kiss her again, and he couldn't wait any longer. He placed his hand around her waist and gently pulled her to him, lowering his head until their lips met. Their pulses raced as the kiss intensified, then Lucas took a step back, placing his hand on her cheek.

"It is very difficult stepping away from you when we are alone, Elizabeth," he said with a low voice. "I think we should eat that wonderful meal you prepared for us."

Elizabeth placed her hand on top of his, still resting on her cheek. "I can't believe how your kisses make me feel. But you are correct. Dinner is ready."

Lucas went to the kitchen with her and helped dish up the food. "This smells wonderful," he said as he carried their bowls to the table. Elizabeth brought some bread, and they began to eat.

"This is really good," Lucas said as he tasted the stew.

"Don't sound so surprised," Elizabeth responded, laughing.

"Nothing about you surprises me. You are a woman of many talents. I enjoyed spending time with Jack. You have an awesome little boy."

"I sure like to think so," Elizabeth replied.

They talked as they ate, conversation coming easy with them as always. So did the laughter. Lucas had a second bowl of stew. Elizabeth watched him as he talked about John and she couldn't believe how deep her feelings were for him already.

"You have to see him," Lucas continued. "He is the most remarkable animal I've ever set eyes on."

"I think I saw him outside the infirmary earlier. Big and black?"

"That's Outlaw. I would love to have one of his offspring when John breeds him. He is a really smart horse."

They finished their stew and Elizabeth said, "Save some room for chocolate cake."

"I am partial to chocolate, but I think you already knew that," Lucas responded as he helped her carry the empty dishes to the kitchen.

Elizabeth sliced the cake and put it on small plates. They took their cake back to the table, along with two glasses of milk. "I had a feeling you were a milk with chocolate cake kind of guy," Elizabeth said playfully.

"I like it with coffee too, but milk is my preference. It's like the perfect combination," Lucas said as he took a bite. "This is delicious. Thank you for making our dinner so special."

"Your being here with me is what made it so special," Elizabeth replied.

"I guess you are ready to get back to school next week. A lot has happened since you were last there." Lucas held Elizabeth's gaze.

"I am. I miss the kids. Hopefully they all had a nice week—not like Allie's, I trust."

"I'm just glad she is alright," Lucas responded.

"Thanks to you. Lucas, as I sit here enjoying your company, I feel like I wasted so much time running away from my feelings for you. And now, here we are just so comfortable with each other. Thank you for being so patient with me."

Lucas smiled and reached over the table to take her hand, "I knew you were my soulmate. I could never give up on us being together, even when I thought you had picked someone else. I have to say I was hurt, but I love you Elizabeth. And I always will."

"I love you too, Lucas."

They finished their dessert and went to sit on the couch. Elizabeth snuggled close under Lucas' arm and laid her head against his shoulder. Lucas placed his cheek on her head.

If this isn't Heaven, it's pretty darn close, he thought to himself as he smiled wishing he never had to leave.

###

John was sitting in the almost empty saloon when Lucas came walking in. Lucas motioned to Albert to bring him a beer.

"Well cousin, you look like you have been sitting here a while. I know you had an exciting day. Would you like to talk about what's going on in your head?" Lucas asked.

John looked up, bleary eyed. Lucas could see he had already had too much to drink. "I have a real problem, cuz. And I'm not sure what to do about it."

Albert brought Lucas his beer. "Could you bring some water for John? Thanks Albert," Lucas said.

Lucas was glad to hear that John could still speak coherently, so at least he wouldn't have to help him upstairs, but he had had enough alcohol. "John, we haven't had a chance to talk since you got back. Tell me what happened this morning."

John told Lucas the whole story, ending with Fiona hugging him, then hugging Nathan. Lucas noticed the irony- once more a hug causing issues. Albert brought a glass and a pitcher of water to the table. Lucas poured a glass full and placed it in front of John.

"So, here I sit, contemplating my thoughts about the whole thing. I probably drank a little too much. That wasn't smart," John said as he sipped on the water.

"The water won't sober you up, but at least you will be hydrated. You said you have a real problem, but you didn't say what that problem was," Lucas responded.

John cocked his head sideways, "I spent a lot of time today thinking about Ona. About her embracing me, and also Nathan. Lucas, she ran straight to me. And him afterwards. I wasn't sure how I felt about all of it until I gave it some thought, and you know what I think? I think Ona has romantic feelings for me."

"And somehow a beautiful woman having feelings for you is a problem…" Lucas replied as he took a drink of his beer.

"Cuz, I have thought this through and even after all that happened in the last 24 hours, I just don't feel that way for Ona. I wanted to be jealous when she hugged Nathan, but honestly, I'm not. I don't want to hurt her, though, she has been through enough. Please don't share this with anyone, I need to figure out what to do."

"John, I want you to get a good night's sleep. You will be working here the next couple of days, so that will keep you busy. Then you are going Monday to get your land purchase settled and I think that should be your focus for now. Let's talk again when you get back." He stood and put his hand on John's shoulder. "Goodnight, John."

"Goodnight, Lucas." John said as Lucas walked away. Lucas motioned at Albert with his hand not to give John any more alcohol, saw Albert's nod of understanding, then turned and went upstairs thinking about his wonderful evening with Elizabeth and Jack.

###

Albert cleaned up the saloon as he watched John sitting alone at a table. Knowing he was the owner's cousin kept him from rushing him out. There was no one else there, the saloon had emptied out a while back other than its lone occupant, and Albert.

Albert's mind wandered to a few hours ago when he got to town from the work site. He had stopped in to the mercantile, hoping to see a certain redhead at the switchboard. He wasn't disappointed.

Molly looked up and smiled brightly as she saw Albert. "Good afternoon, Mr. Johnson. What can I help you with today?"

"Well first of all, you can call me by my given name. Albert would do just fine," he said with a smile.

"Albert, then. And please, call me Molly."

"Well…Molly…I have tomorrow night off and I wondered if perhaps you would be able to have dinner with me. If you are free, of course."

Molly blushed, "Yes. I have the evening off as well. And I happen to be free. I would love to have dinner with you, Albert."

"Wonderful. About 7? And I don't know where you live."

"We can just meet at the café, if that is alright," Molly replied.

"That sounds perfect. I will see you tomorrow evening then," Albert responded as he smiled and waved as he turned to leave.

Albert was quite taken with the beautiful Molly Sullivan. He couldn't wait to spend some time with her and learn all about her. But now, he was ready for bed. John had finally retired for the night.

Albert went to clean up his table and then climbed the stairs himself. He had a long day tomorrow.

###

Elizabeth woke up to the weekend with a bright smile. She knew being in love was the reason. She thought of her dinner with Lucas last night. Elizabeth had been surprised when she saw how comfortable Jack was with him. Surprised, and pleased. Should they ever get married…

She loved Lucas and knew he loved her, but neither one had mentioned marriage, other than what Lucas said in Union City. Their relationship was only a couple of days old and yet Elizabeth wanted to think long term. She wanted to let her thoughts wander to the future and being married to him.

It took 5 years for her and Jack to say, 'I do.' Life is unpredictable and short, as she found out soon after their wedding. The last thing she wanted this time around was a long courtship. She was so drawn to Lucas in every way, and last night she realized just how attracted she was to him physically. She was glad he was such a gentleman, and she knew he would never do anything to hurt her reputation. Just one more thing she loved about him.

Elizabeth heard Jack in the other room and went to get him for breakfast.

"Good morning, my sweet boy."

"Mo'n, Mama."

"Did you have fun with Lucas last night?"

"Wead book, 'Ucas."

"I see we need to work on your R's and L's. Let's go get something to eat. Mama is starving. Then we are going over to the library. Perhaps we will see Lucas over there today." She knew he still had to spend some time with Mr. Smith working on the procedures for the oil company, but he said he would try to stop by. She hoped the consultant would be able to help Lucas turn a profit sooner rather than later. They had spoken of the plans he had for next week, and Elizabeth hoped things turned out the way that he wanted them to, especially as the holiday season drew near.

###

Lucas stepped out of the saloon, feeling the cold breeze hit him in the face. He pulled the front of his coat together as he walked to the office. Lucas loved this time of year, from the brisk weather, to the holidays. He was always reminded of his youth as Christmas approached. Traveling with his parents during this season had taught him so much about different cultures around the world and the ways they celebrate. He felt very blessed that they were able to travel to other countries when there were so many that did not have that luxury. He had not let all the amenities of his upbringing spoil him though, thanks to his father. Lucas had been taught the value of hard work from a young age. And he was quite thankful for that. His parents had also made sure that Lucas knew that all people should be treated the same, regardless of their station in life. Money didn't make the man, his father always said. Lucas tended to miss his parents more this time of year because of all their family time that had centered around the holiday season.

But he had a new family now, the residents of Hope Valley.

As much as he loved travel, he had to admit that coming to a small town agreed with him. He hadn't been sure in the beginning if he would ever be accepted here, his issues with Amos had certainly made some around town mistrust him. His secrecy surrounding the whole ordeal caused him to look like he had something to hide. And, of course, buying the saloon out from under Bill hadn't given him much esteem at first. But he had made many friends in the time since he had arrived. And he now felt at home. Hope Valley had stolen his heart.

Well, the town and a certain schoolteacher.

Christmas was less than four weeks away. As Lucas stood outside enjoying the few snowflakes blowing around, he thought about last Christmas. He remembered the look of wonder on Elizabeth's face as she watched the lanterns that he and the children had prepared. Watching her joy had made him happy. They had stood side by side that night, looking on in silence as the lanterns floated over their heads. Lucas had taken a few glances her way, watching her beautiful face light up in awe. As he observed her, he realized that he wanted to surprise her like that for the rest of their lives.

They had only been together such a short time and yet they were totally at ease as a couple. Of course, they hadn't made their relationship public yet. He was very curious how that would go.

Lucas couldn't stop himself from letting his mind wander to the future. They may have only declared their love to each other a few days ago, but Lucas already knew what he wanted to do.

He wanted to marry Elizabeth. And he hoped to do it soon.

He just wasn't sure how she felt about a short courtship. After all, she was with Jack for several years before they married. He longed for the day they would be one. He had told her in Union City he was in no hurry, but that was before he had kissed her. That moment had changed everything for him. Not just the physical connection, but the emotional one. Of course, he would wait as long as it took for her to be ready. He was a patient man and would never rush her.

Lucas already had his brain working overtime on how and when he would propose. He went back and forth from over the top, to simple. That it would be romantic was a given. He had to give it a lot more thought before deciding.

Lucas entered the office and prepared for the day. He hoped to take a break in a few hours and perhaps see Elizabeth at the library. He was already missing her presence since leaving her last night. But right now, he had to get busy. Mr. Smith was only here a couple more days and they had a lot to do, especially if Lucas' plan was going to be implemented next week.

###

Rosemary looked up as she heard Fiona coming down the stairs. "How are you feeling, sweetie?" she asked her friend.

Fiona smiled as she stretched. "I'm a little sore, but I feel rested. I can't believe I slept straight through. Thank you and Lee so much for letting me stay here for a while. I definitely feel stronger this morning."

Rosemary smiled back. "It is our pleasure. Now, what would you like for breakfast this morning?"

"Maybe just some toast and coffee. I'm not much of a breakfast eater."

"And maybe a scrambled egg? You need to get your strength up," Rosemary insisted.

"Ok, yes. A scrambled egg sounds wonderful. Thank you, Rosemary," Fiona said as she followed her to the kitchen.

"Have a seat at the table. I'll have this ready in a jiffy. Oh, by the way, you had a visitor this morning," Rosemary said as she turned toward Fiona.

"Oh? Who was it?"

"None other than our Constable Grant. He said he was coming by to check on you. When I told him that you were still sleeping, he said he would come by later on. That was very nice of him to be so concerned about you," Rosemary hinted as she worked on breakfast.

Fiona smiled. "I'm sorry I missed him. I better get cleaned up after breakfast in case he comes back in a little while. I'm not sure it means anything…"

"Are you kidding me? Fiona, he looked very worried. I think perhaps there might be something there."

"I don't want to get my hopes up. Johnny didn't come by?"

Rosemary brought a plate and a cup and sat it in front of Fiona. Then she sat down with her. "No. But I'm sure he will soon. I can't blame you for not wanting to get your hopes up. Especially after we thought he had feelings for Elizabeth just a few days ago. Just take your time."

"This looks wonderful," Fiona said as she began to eat, her mind on the man in the red serge.

###

Elizabeth straightened the books up. She decided to rearrange some of the genres and was making good time. She was also making room for a Christmas tree. It would make the library look more festive. Jack sat at the table looking at a book and talking to himself. Her heart filled with love that she was so blessed.

The door opened and Lucas walked in, bringing a smile to Elizabeth's face. "Good morning," she said as he entered.

"'Ucas!" Jack said excitedly as he scrambled out of his chair and came running. Lucas looked at Elizabeth and she spoke. "He's having trouble with his L's, so Ucas it is for now."

Lucas laughed as Jack grabbed his leg. "Good morning, Jack." Jack reached up and Lucas obliged him gladly, lifting the little boy into his arms. Jack surprised him by hugging him around the neck. Lucas embraced him lovingly. "It's good to see you too, little buddy." Jack leaned back and patted Lucas' cheek.

Elizabeth choked back the tears that filled her eyes, watching the interaction. "I think he likes you, Lucas."

"The feeling is mutual," Lucas said. "I like you too, little man." Jack decided he wanted down, and Lucas gently placed him on the ground. He ran back to the book he had been reading.

Elizabeth watched him for a moment, then looked back at Lucas with a smile. "How about a good morning kiss for his mother?" she asked coyly.

"You should never have to ask for that," Lucas said as he leaned down, placing his hand on her face and kissing her tenderly. "I hope I never have to go a day without one of those."

"As far as I'm concerned, you won't," Elizabeth said.

Lucas looked around. "Rearranging the books?"

"Yes. Let me show you what I am doing." Elizabeth walked him around the room, telling him where everything was.

Lucas nodded his head. "I can see this is a much better arrangement than before, Madam Librarian."

Elizabeth laughed at the reminder of the name he had called her long ago, thinking of the night he quoted a book passage to her in this very room. That was probably the first night she knew how attracted she was to him. And when she started convincing herself she wasn't.

"I can't stay long, I really just came by to say hello, and to get that kiss. We are making some progress at the office. John has stepped in at the saloon for Fiona for a couple of days, so that's a big help. Have you heard how she is doing?"

"I left early this morning, so I haven't checked on her yet. I'm almost done here, and Jack and I will go over there to see her."

"I think she will put this behind her quickly. She seems to be a strong woman," Lucas replied.

"I think so too. Will I see you later?"

"I hope so. I'm working at the saloon tonight, it's Albert's night off. I'll stop by before and hopefully sneak another kiss."

Elizabeth looked up into his beautiful eyes. "Here is one for you to think about today." She reached her arms around his neck and kissed him. More firmly than the earlier one. Lucas couldn't help but embrace her and return the passion she awoke in him.

When the kiss ended, Lucas looked down suddenly feeling a bit shy. Then he took a deep breath. "I…definitely…won't forget that one," he said as he lifted her hand and kissed it. "See you later, Jack." Lucas waved and Jack waved back. "Bye, 'Ucas!" Lucas smiled at both of them and left the library.

Elizabeth walked over to Jack and picked him up. "I'm so glad you like Lucas," she said as she hugged him to her.

"Mama likes him too," she said with a smile.