Author's note: I have thoroughly enjoyed writing this story during the off-season. I hope it has kept you entertained while we wait for season 8 and a decision from Elizabeth. As I began this story, I had planned to grow a relationship with Molly and Albert. After the first couple of sections with them, I realized that I couldn't make it work for this story. Then Bill's daughter showed up and the rest of it just fell into place. I apologize if anyone was invested in M/A since I didn't develop it. I would like to explore a story with Molly in it perhaps in the future as she is one of my favs.
Without further ado, here is the finale. It was so long I had to split it into two chapters. I hope you enjoy.
Chapter 26— The Big Day-Part 1
Elizabeth stretched as the sun rose the next morning. It only took a few seconds for her eyes to pop open with the realization that today was her wedding day. Her face broke into a brilliant smile knowing that in a few hours she would be a married woman. Elizabeth looked at the clock and knew that Jack wouldn't be up for another hour. She stretched her muscles again, feeling well rested.
Elizabeth got up and put her robe on, walking quietly down the stairs to make a pot of coffee. She looked out the window and then poured herself a cup of the hot liquid, carrying it over to her desk. Sitting down and staring out into the silent room for a moment, she picked up her pen and opened her journal. Pausing with her pen over the paper, she finally began to write.
To my dearest Jack,
Today I begin another chapter.
A few years ago, I couldn't imagine my life apart from you. Then the unthinkable happened and I was forced to live my life without you in it. It was a long time before I could take a breath without the pain of thinking I would never see you again. And yet somehow, I managed to move forward with our son to push me on.
I know that you wanted me to live once more. To love again. The pain of losing you was so great I didn't believe I could ever find anyone I would want to share the rest of my life with. And yet, somehow, I did.
You were wiser than I was, my first love. You knew I had so much love to give that I wouldn't be able to contain it. That one day I would have to share it with another man.
Well, Jack, you were right. I found a man that cherishes me as you did. He is so wonderful that I sometimes feel I don't deserve him. Lucas puts my every wish above his own. He loves me unconditionally. He makes my dreams come true. And best of all, he loves our son. And I love him more than I ever thought possible after the heartache of losing you.
No one could ever take your place in my heart, but apparently my heart is large enough for a second great love affair in my life. And today is the day that I become his wife.
Thank you for being you, Jack Thornton. And for showing me how a woman should be loved.
Elizabeth
Elizabeth smiled as she set her pen down on the desk and picked up her cup to take a drink. Everything had been taken care of yesterday so today she could focus on a relaxed morning, only needing to get herself dressed. Rosemary and Fiona would be here soon to help her with her hair and with Jack.
It was February 14th and Elizabeth would soon marry her valentine.
###
Lucas was pacing in his room. Surprisingly, he had slept like the dead and woken up refreshed.
Today was his wedding day.
The plan was for Elizabeth to stay at her house, and he would remain in the saloon until just before the ceremony. Lee was in charge of making sure the two of them didn't cross paths until she walked down the aisle. Lucas would walk to the library and Lee would drive the ladies over shortly after. Right now, Lucas had to work off some of his enthusiasm. He wasn't so much nervous as he was eager.
He pulled his watch from his pocket and flipped it open. Lucas had exactly 4 hours and 6 minutes before Elizabeth became his wife. Glancing at the inscription from his father, he smiled. Waiting for his soulmate was about to be rewarded by marrying the most beautiful woman he had ever met.
Lucas had woken up and put on one of his suits, knowing that soon he would change into his tuxedo. He heard a knock on his door and went to open it, not surprised to find John standing there smiling at him.
"It's your wedding day, Cuz!" he said as he walked in and slapped Lucas' shoulder. "I knew you would be up. You nervous?"
"I'm sure the nerves will come just before the ceremony, but right now I am struggling with my patient nature to marry the woman of my dreams. I'm certain I have looked at my watch 5 times and the hands haven't moved."
"We should get some breakfast in you, but not too much. I don't want you falling asleep while the preacher is talking," John kidded.
"Not a chance," Lucas said as they walked out and closed the door behind them.
###
Lucy and Bill were finishing up the morning meal and about to close the café for the day. She had avoided the subject of leaving town because she didn't want to upset Bill again. Lucy was certain he would try to stop her, and she didn't want to ruin his day.
Her trunk was packed and waiting in her room to be shipped to her. She also had her travel bag ready to go. When she finished here, she would go back to the hotel to freshen up and dress for the wedding. It would be difficult seeing John during the ceremony, so she would try her best to keep her eyes on the bride and groom.
While Lucy was thrilled for the happy couple, she felt pretty miserable about her own future. She would just have to hide her feelings a few more hours until the afternoon stage got here.
###
Bill had walked over to the saloon with Lucy and watched as she went upstairs. Lucas and John came out of the kitchen and he walked over to them.
"Lucas, you have outdone yourself. This place looks amazing, Elizabeth will be delighted. Hello John," Bill said as he shook their hands.
"Thanks Bill. I'm glad you are here to walk Elizabeth down the aisle. I know that means a lot to her."
"How are you holding up? Nervous?" Bill asked.
"Apparently everyone is concerned about my nerves. I am just ready to be a married man," Lucas replied with a smile.
"All I ask is that you make her happy, and I know you will," Bill said then turned to John. "Can I speak to you for a moment, John?"
Lucas spoke to his cousin, "I'm going back to the kitchen for a moment before going upstairs to get dressed," he said then left the room.
Bill led John over to the bar and they sat down. "I wanted to talk to you about Lucy."
John looked down. "I had a feeling."
"John, the truth is I know she has feelings for you. And I'm certain you care about her. She plans to leave tomorrow, and I haven't been able to talk her out of it."
"Perhaps you shouldn't try to. Seems her mind is made up."
"She's my daughter and I'm concerned about her. She doesn't love this man." Bill replied. "Could you at least try once more to talk to her later?"
John smiled, "I will, but don't hold your breath on her changing her mind."
"Thanks. That's all I ask. I just found her and hate to lose her again," Bill responded as they both stood.
The two men shook hands and Bill left.
John stood there staring at the door wondering what in the world he could say that would convince her to stay as he pondered Bill's words.
She doesn't love her fiancé? Then why on earth was she marrying him?
###
Nathan entered the saloon and looked around, smiling at the beautiful décor. He saw John and Lucas standing across the room having a conversation and waited until he was noticed. Lucas left John and walked towards Nathan, extending his hand for a shake.
"Lucas the place looks great. Elizabeth will be pleased."
"Thank you. Is there something I can do for you?" Lucas asked.
"Actually, I just wanted to come by and wish you well. I know how much you love Elizabeth and I hope you two will have a very happy marriage. She deserves it. So do you," Nathan replied.
"I appreciate it. Will I see you at the wedding?"
Nathan shook his hand again, "Wouldn't miss it."
"Oh, by the way, Nathan, would you mind doing me a favor?"
###
Elizabeth stepped into her gown while Rosemary and Fiona held it and she put her arms in the sleeves. Fiona had just finished her hair and it was finally time for her to get dressed. As Elizabeth stood there waiting, Rosemary buttoned up the back. Then she walked around Elizabeth to see her from the front. Fiona stood there with her hands on the sides of her mouth, astonished at the vision in front of her.
"Okay, Elizabeth," Rosemary said. "You can turn around now."
Elizabeth smiled at her friends and slowly turned around to see her reflection. As she stared, she noticed how much older she looked this day than the day she married Jack. More mature. The gown fit her like a glove but wasn't tight. Her hair was up on the top, with some curls going down her back. It being her second wedding, she had decided against a veil, opting for a tiara instead.
All three women were silent as she surveyed her appearance in the mirror.
"Elizabeth, you look stunning," Fiona said, and Rosemary nodded in agreement.
"Yes, you are a beautiful bride," Rosemary added.
"Thank you both," Elizabeth said, her voice emotional. "Oh no!" she said putting her hand to her neck. "Do I need a necklace? With all the other plans going on, I can't believe I totally forgot."
"I'm sure we can find something," Rosemary replied.
All three looked over at the door when they heard a knock, wondering who might be there. Fiona opened it a crack and found Nathan's smiling face on the other side.
"Nathan, what are you doing here?" Fiona asked opening the door a little wider.
"Actually, I am here as a deliveryman." Nathan handed a small box and a folded piece of paper to Fiona. "I will see you soon." Nathan tipped his hat and winked at her as he turned to leave. Fiona stepped back and closed the door.
"I think this is for you, Elizabeth," she said holding out the note.
Elizabeth took it and saw her name in Lucas' handwriting on the outside. She smiled then unfolded it and began to read.
My darling Elizabeth,
Today we become one in the place that is ours. I think of the first time we entered that building together with Little Jack and I believe that handing you the key to the door was a prediction of this day.
That day I gave you the key to the library. Today I give you the key to my heart.
I will be waiting for you, my love.
Will you be my valentine?
Always yours,
Lucas
Elizabeth didn't let the tears that filled her eyes fall as she refolded the note and took the small package from Fiona. She carefully opened the box and gasped as she saw what was inside.
"Oh look! It's…gorgeous," she said as she turned it around for her friends to see.
There was a gold necklace inside, with a key pendant on it. Carved out of the top of the key was a heart.
"He truly thought of everything, even the things you forgot," Rosemary said as she took the box and carefully removed the necklace, then fastened it around Elizabeth's neck. She quickly turned around and looked into the mirror, her hand going to the key as she smiled.
"It's perfect," Fiona said as she let her own tears fall.
"Just like he is," Elizabeth replied. Her heart was bursting with love for the man she was about to marry. She looked at the clock, "It's almost time," she said before taking a deep breath.
###
Carson had just finished dressing and was about to head out the door to the library when Molly rushed in.
"Carson! There is someone outside that needs your assistance!"
Carson looked puzzled and wondered why the person didn't just come in the door.
"Hurry!" Molly said, trying to rush him a little.
She grabbed his arm and hurriedly walked him to the door and waited as he exited. There on the walkway stood Faith.
"Faith! When did you…you're here!" Carson said, seeing her bright smile. He enveloped her in his arms.
"You didn't think I would miss the wedding, did you?" Faith said as she stepped back and looked into his loving eyes.
Molly came outside smiling, "I'll see you both there," she said as she walked away.
Carson leaned down and kissed the lady he loved and had missed so much the last few months. He grabbed his camera before closing the door, then smiled and let her take his arm as they headed towards the library.
###
Lucas and John walked into the library and looked around. Pastor Zeke was there waiting, as were all of their friends. They walked to the front of the chairs and spoke to the pastor as they waited for the rest of the wedding party to arrive.
"You haven't stopped smiling all morning, Cuz," John said looking at Lucas.
"And I may not stop for a long time," Lucas replied. "I am a blessed man."
###
Lee knocked on Elizabeth's door.
"Are you all ready?" he asked then stopped as he took in Elizabeth's appearance. "Wow. I hope Lucas knows what a fortunate man he is. Almost as lucky as I am," he said as he pulled Rosemary to his side and kissed her temple. "You look beautiful, Elizabeth. Let's go get you married."
They all went outside and got into the car. A few minutes later when Lee pulled up at the library, he took Jack with him to remind him once again what he was supposed to do. Fiona kissed Elizabeth's cheek and walked inside to find her seat. Rosemary stood there facing Elizabeth outside the closed door.
"Well, here we are," Rosemary said to her friend. "And I couldn't be happier for you, sweetie. There is just one more surprise waiting." Elizabeth looked a little bewildered as Rosemary opened the door and motioned inside the library. Elizabeth blinked her eyes twice, thinking she must be seeing things when her surprise walked out.
"Abigail?" she questioned as she saw the beautiful face of her friend smiling at her. Abigail came up with tear-filled eyes and hugged Elizabeth.
"So, you decided to marry that charmer after all, did you?" Abigail teased. "You know, I liked him from the first day I met him in the café."
"It's so good to see you! Now my day is really perfect!"
"You didn't think I would miss your special day, did you?" Abigail asked with a smile. "Elizabeth, you look incredible. And I can see he makes you happy, you are absolutely beaming. I'm going inside to take a seat. We will chat at the reception." She sweetly touched Elizabeth's face then went inside, closing the door behind her.
Elizabeth turned to Rosemary. "What a wonderful surprise on my wedding day. Thank you so much."
"You are so welcome. I think it's time now. Are you ready?"
"More ready than I have ever been," Elizabeth said as Lee came to open the door. He signaled to Bill and he came outside.
His eyes lit up as he saw Elizabeth.
"What a lovely bride you are," Bill said as he leaned in and kissed her cheek. "Now there is a very impatient man in there ready to make you his wife."
"Impatient? Lucas?" Elizabeth joked. "Then we better not keep him waiting any longer."
Lee nodded inside the door and the music started; Lucas had hired a couple of violinists for the ceremony. Rosemary turned and smiled at Elizabeth standing just to the side of the door, then began her walk down the middle aisle. Lee leaned down and spoke to Jack and just as Rosemary stopped at the front, Jack stood tall and walked in holding his pillow very cautiously. When he spotted Lucas, he couldn't help but yell out, "Daddy Lucas!" making everyone laugh. He walked proudly to the front and stood by John like such a big boy.
The music changed and Elizabeth heard the strains of the bridal march. She smiled at Bill as she took his arm and a deep breath.
Inside, the small gathering stood and turned towards the door, anxious to catch their first glimpse of the bride.
Bill and Elizabeth walked to the open door and stopped, Lucas getting his first look at the woman he loved more than life. His breath caught in his throat and tears filled his eyes as he took in how beautiful she was. John reached over and touched his arm knowing how emotional Lucas had to be at that moment. Bill and Elizabeth slowly made their way down the short aisle, Elizabeth and Lucas never taking their eyes from each other. She had never seen him more handsome than he was today, in a black tux with an ivory vest that perfectly matched her dress. She was certain Rosemary had something to do with that.
When they reached the front, Lucas took a breath. "I have no words…," he said softly, Elizabeth hearing the catch in his voice.
"I'll take that as a compliment," she responded with a wink.
Bill kissed Elizabeth's cheek and took his seat next to Lucy as Elizabeth handed her bouquet to Rosemary.
"Dearly beloved," Pastor Zeke said as he began the ceremony. He spoke a few words then allowed Lucas and Elizabeth to say their vows.
Lucas turned to Elizabeth and took her hands in his. He looked into her eyes and started speaking.
"After I came to Hope Valley, I knew I wanted to settle down here. I had hopes of finding my soulmate and starting a family. Little did I know that in that street out there I would run into her and offer her a job.
"Before long, I realized that you were the one that I was waiting and yearning for. Strong, resilient, and beautiful. And, even though I recognized it, I knew that you needed more time to mourn and to figure out your own feelings. I am so glad that you decided I was worthy of your love.
"Elizabeth Thornton, you are the love of my life. And I will spend every day I have left in this world trying my best to make you the happiest woman on earth." Lucas ended his speech with a smile that showed his dimples.
Elizabeth stood there trying to compose herself, then she spoke.
"Lucas, when I met you, I wasn't sure what to think," she started, the audience laughing. "You came to Hope Valley and brought excitement and mystery to our little town. I didn't know whether to like you or mistrust you, but one thing was for sure- I was intrigued by you and very soon drawn to you, and your dimples."
More laughter from the crowd.
"As much as I tried to run away, your love and patience kept pulling me back to you. The truth is, I was afraid of the strong feelings I was having. You have always been kind and generous not only to me but to everyone. Your attention to my son did not escape my notice.
"Lucas Bouchard, you may not be my first love, but you are my last. I hope and pray we have many years together to make each other happy. I love you."
They smiled at each other bringing happiness to the gathering. A few wiped away tears.
Pastor Zeke spoke again, "May I have the rings?"
John leaned down and untied the ribbon as Jack held up the pillow, then John took both rings in his hand. He handed one to Elizabeth and the other to Lucas.
"Now repeat after me, Lucas. With this ring I thee wed."
Lucas gently took Elizabeth's hand and place the ring on her finger. "With this ring I thee wed," he repeated, his voice shaking as he spoke.
"Elizabeth," the pastor said, "Repeat after me, with this ring I thee wed."
Elizabeth placed the ring on Lucas' finger. She looked him in the eyes, "with this ring I thee wed," she said with a happy bounce her eyes shining.
Pastor Zeke smiled as he looked from one to the other, both turning their eyes expectantly in his direction.
"By the power invested in me, I now pronounce you man and wife. Lucas you may kiss your bride."
Lucas' smile was dazzling as he realized Elizabeth was now his wife. He touched the side of her face, then leaned down and gently placed a kiss on her waiting lips. As he started to pull back, he felt Elizabeth wrap her arms around his neck and pull him in, not wanting the kiss to end. When it did, he tilted back slightly and stared into her eyes with a smile. Another soft kiss and they put their foreheads together and laughed with overwhelming joy.
Lucas and Elizabeth turned to the crowd and clasped hands, raising them in the air. Jack came running up to them, "Daddy Lucas! Pick me up!" bringing amusement as Lucas willingly leaned down and lifted him into his arms.
"Ladies and gentlemen, I now introduce to you, Mr. and Mrs. Bouchard and their son Jack."
The three of them began their walk back down the aisle and out the door to applause and whistles, Rosemary and John following them.
"I can't believe we are married. Elizabeth, you take my breath away."
"You look pretty dapper yourself," she replied.
"I guess we better head over for our reception," Lucas said, then he kissed Elizabeth's hand as they walked.
###
The guests all began filing out of the library, Lucy watching John who was a short distance in front of her. She didn't have long before the stage would come, and she would never see him again. The wedding had been beautiful, and she had tried her best to watch Elizabeth, but her gaze kept being drawn to John in his black suit and tie. He never made eye contact with her and she supposed that was all for the best.
"Penny for your thoughts," Bill said as he came up and offered her his arm.
"I'm not sure they are even worth that," she said, forcing a smile to her lips and letting him escort her to the saloon.
###
Lucas and Elizabeth entered the building and Lucas watched her face as she looked around.
"Oh Lucas, it's wonderful. You did a great job. Once again, everything is flawless."
The tables were spread with starched white cloths with vases full of flowers in the center of each one. The ceiling was draped in the same way as the library, and also greenery and flowers were everywhere. Lucas had hired a wait staff, who were standing there anticipating their jobs to begin.
"You perfected every detail," Elizabeth said smiling up at him.
He kissed her hand, "All for you, my love. I am glad you are pleased."
Everyone took their places at the tables and the luncheon began. Elizabeth and Lucas walked around and greeted their friends, never leaving each other's sides. Laura had taken Jack and was keeping him occupied.
"If I could have your attention please. We need the bride and groom center stage for their first dance as man and wife," John said after everyone was finished eating. Lucas and Elizabeth walked to the dance floor and started a waltz, speaking to each other in low tones.
"I can't believe we are finally married," Lucas said his brown eyes going from her eyes to her mouth and back again. "You are the most beautiful bride I have ever seen. I'm so glad you are mine."
"You make me so happy, Lucas. I can't believe in a short time we will be alone as man and wife…" Elizabeth said softly, leaning close to his ear to speak.
"I have to admit, that appeals to me greatly," he replied intimately. "I can't seem to take my eyes off of you, my love."
"Well, you don't have to…"
The song ended to the sound of applause.
Lucy walked up to Fiona and pulled her aside. "Fiona, can you do me a favor? Can you give this to Bill later? After the reception?"
"Of course. But why can't you do it yourself?"
"Because I am leaving right now, and I hate farewells. Thank you for being such a good friend. I will miss you," Lucy hugged her friend with tears in her eyes.
"I will miss you too. I wish you would stay."
"If only I could. Goodbye Fiona," Lucy said as she headed towards the kitchen where she had left her bag. She turned and glanced at John, who was occupied, and then she hurried out the back door as not to cause a scene and got to the stage just as it was about to leave.
Lucy took one more look around town, then handed her bag to the driver as she boarded the coach and sat down. When they began to move, she cried into her hands over everything she was leaving behind.
###
John tapped his glass. "Attention please. Everyone, find a drink so we can toast the bride and groom."
He waited for a bit, then spoke again. "Lucas, I have known you all my life and I have always looked up to you. I used to roll my eyes and laugh as you spoke of waiting for your soulmate." The crowd snickered, then he continued. "But as I can see, you got the last laugh. You have found the perfect woman for you and I couldn't be happier, Cuz. This place may be called the Queen of Hearts, but today you are the King of Hearts. To Lucas and Elizabeth, may all your dreams come true." He lifted his glass as did everyone else and then they took a sip.
"And of course, you expect me to follow you, John," Rosemary said cheerfully. "I don't think I can top that toast, but I'll try. Elizabeth, I love you like a sister. I have seen you laugh and cry over the years we have been friends. But today, I celebrate your happiness with you. I wish you all the joy in the world…oh! OH!" Rosemary said as she put her hand on her belly and looked startled. Lee was immediately at her side and Carson on his way in her direction.
"Rosie, is everything alright?" Lee asked, concern written on his face. Rosemary smiled up at him and took his hand, placing It on her growing stomach. "The baby kicked for the first time!" she said joyfully, waiting until it happened again. When it did, Lee started laughing. "He kicked me!"
The audience joined in with their joy.
Elizabeth looked at Lee and giggled, "Well, it could be a she you know."
John laughed as he spoke over the crowd, "And you thought you couldn't top my speech, Rosemary."
"To Elizabeth and Lucas," Rosemary said as she lifted her water glass in the air and then took a drink.
About that time Gustave came out of the kitchen rolling a table with the wedding cake he had been working on and keeping a secret.
Lucas and Elizabeth watched as he got closer and they looked at the cake.
"Gustave it's magnificent," Lucas said.
Elizabeth inspected the cake that everyone was admiring. It was off-white and had beautiful red roses made of icing that trailed down all three layers. There were 2 large hearts made of icing on the top layer. The cake topper was a bit unusual- it was two cards, the king and queen of hearts, one stuck into each icing heart. The cake was beyond stunning.
"Thank you, Gustave!" Elizabeth said, "It's a masterpiece!"
Carson came to take some pictures before the cake was cut.
Fiona walked over to Bill and pulled him aside. "Bill, Lucy told me a while ago to give this to you after the reception, but I think you should read it now." Bill's smile faded as he carefully took the folded paper and walked away from the crowd and opened it. His eyes welled up as he read the first line.
Dear Dad,
I hope you don't mind me calling you that, as I have always wanted a Dad and not just a Father, which is what I called Mr. Jones.
I have loved getting to know you, and I love you. But it is time for me to leave now. I am taking the afternoon stage today. Please don't tell Elizabeth and Lucas until later as I don't want to ruin their day.
You are everything I have ever wanted in a father and I hope we can visit each other often. Thank you for being you.
Your daughter,
Lucy
Bill stood there in shock, the tears filling his eyes, not sure how he should be feeling right now. He understood why she left early, to avoid an emotional goodbye, but he still didn't know what to do about the situation.
"Bill…Bill…" John had spoken his name a few times, trying to get his attention. Whatever he was reading seemed to have shaken the man.
Bill finally looked up. "Oh…hi John," Bill replied softly. "John! We need to talk, now," Bill said fervently as he took John's arm and hurried him outside.
"What's going on? I've been looking for Lucy and can't find her anywhere."
Bill handed John her note which he quickly read then looked at Bill in a panic. "She's…gone?"
"Listen to me, John," Bill said and quickly told the younger man everything that he knew regarding Lucy and her fiancé, Arthur.
"You mean that's what this is all about? Her inheritance? That stubborn little princess." John ran his hand through his hair in frustration. "Why didn't you tell me this before, Bill?"
"Because it wasn't my story to tell. And I was hoping she would come to her senses. Wait! John! Where are you going?" Bill called out as the younger man began running.
John stopped and turned around extending his arms, "I'm going to get Outlaw and catch that stage!" he yelled and then turned back around headed for the livery.
Bill smiled and looked at John's retreating back. "Godspeed, John Davis," he said as he turned and went back into the saloon, hopeful that love would win, and he would get his daughter back.
