With the next day, came New Years, and the big fancy event at the Thatcher's estate. Elizabeth could feel her stomach tying itself up in knots. She knew Jack was fully capable of handling whatever the night brought, she just wished things with her father didn't have to be so difficult.

Elizabeth walked into the bedroom she and Jack shared in her sister's home. Jack was pacing back and forth talking on the phone. He smiled and laughed as he listened to the voice on the other end.

"Who was that, babe?" she asked as he hung up.

"My grandfather. He'd like to meet you, by the way. I know we only have a couple days when we get back to Seattle before we head to Haiti but I think he's going to fly up to see us."

"That would be nice. You've spoken so highly of him."

"Yeah, he's a good man. I think he really misses mom and wants to see for himself that she's doing okay. For a while he was trying to get her to move back home to northern California but Seattle's her home now. I don't think she'd ever leave."

"I can understand that. Her home there is the last one she shared with your father. Must be so painful to think about leaving."

"He gets that too. That's why he won't leave his home. My grandma. There's been talk of him selling the business soon since neither Rosie, Tom or I have any interest in taking it over. But he won't leave the house he's in. He built it for my grandmother and it would be like leaving her behind."

"What exactly is your grandfather's business again?"

"He owns a large vineyard and horse ranch in northern California. When he retired from Wall Street he put all of his funds into this. He remodeled part of it as a retreat for businessmen and their companies. It's really profitable, last I knew."

"Rosie doesn't want to have anything to do with it?" she asked surprised.

"She's toyed with the idea here and there but then she met Lee and their life is in Seattle."

"And you and Tommy?" She lay back on the bed, watching him.

"Too rich for our blood. Grandpa understands."

"That's wonderful. And I can't wait to meet him. Is he all right, though? What was the call about?"

"I called him. I was kind of looking for some advice from him about tonight. It's been awhile since I've been to one of these fancy shindigs."

"Come here." She reached out his hand and pulled him down on the bed beside her. "You are going to do wonderful. Trust me." Then she gave him a lingering kiss on his lips. Before long, her affection traveled down from his lips to his chin, to his neck driving him wild.

"Whatever happened to our "no kissing in bed" rule?"

"We need to leave soon," she said kissing him again. "No time to get carried away."

"Maybe, but if we're creative…"

"You're just trying to get out of this party."

She rolled off the bed, leaving him feeling lonely and full of want.

"This would be a better alternative."

"You'll be fine, baby. Besides if you got any trouble I'll be right there."

"My guardian angel."

"Exactly," she said with a giggle. "We really should be heading out soon. We can change into our party clothes at my parents."

"Sounds good." He rolled off the bed and went to the closet to get his suit bag. "Did you get a new dress for this or using one that's at your parents? You didn't exactly come to Washington with a cocktail dress."

"No, that's true." She laughed. "When I knew we were coming home for this, I ordered one and had it delivered to my parent's house."

"That's convenient. You sure it will fit?"

"I know it will. I ordered it from the same place I've always order my dresses. This time though when I ordered it, I was thinking more about you than anything else."

"Me? What do you mean by that?"

"Let's just say, I hope you like it."

"If you're wearing it, I know I'll love it."

As they drove to the Thatcher house, Viola, Charles and Elizabeth did their best to prepare Jack. He hated this. Feeling so nervous, thinking he had to prove himself to this man that clearly had no interest in giving him a chance.

As they turned into the Thatcher's driveway, Elizabeth lifted his hand to her lips, giving each finger a kiss. "I love you," she whispered.

That's when Jack made a decision. He wasn't going to worry anymore. He had Elizabeth's love. He needed nothing else.

Inside the New England mansion of a home, things were pretty chaotic. The catering and serving staff fluttered around getting the lay of the land. When it was time, Grace took her place in the foyer, ready to greet their guest. William promised to join her in a moment. He was upstairs fighting with his tie, or so he said. Grace would bet anything he was just avoiding Jack.

The night before, when they'd returned home from the disastrous dinner at Viola's, things were frosty at best. Grace couldn't believe the nerve of William. Going on about all the bad things that could happen. Oh, she let him have it once they were home.

"Have you even listened to a single word Beth has spoken about him? He lost his uncle in a structure fire. He lost his father to cancer. Don't you dare question what he knows about loss or the things that MIGHT happen. And the fact that he would lay down his life for others is not something you should punish him for!"

The first dozen or so guests arrived, and still, there was no William.

She heard footsteps on the stairs behind her and turned. It wasn't William, but Jack. He was dressed in a tailored black suit with a deep purple shirt and black tie. He looked comfortable in it too. This wasn't his first time in a fancy suit.

"My goodness, Jack," she exclaimed. "Don't you look handsome."

"And you look very lovely, Mrs. Thatcher." Jack kissed her cheek. "Thank you for being so kind to me and inviting me into your home tonight."

"It is my pleasure, Jack. You're family now. And if that wasn't enough, you take such good care of our Beth."

"We take care of each other."

"Even better," Grace smiled softly. Before she could say more, the doorbell rang and more guests arrived.

Not wanting to be in the way, Jack stepped off to the side into a small den of sorts. He grinned as he looked at the many family photos lining the walls. His favorite, a picture of Elizabeth. Her curls unruly on the top of her head as she smiled a big grin. Showing off her missing teeth. She couldn't have been more than 6 and dressed in her ballet getup.

"Hey sexy," Elizabeth surprised Jack standing behind him and whispering. Her arms wrapping around his waist and pulling him against her body.

He turned around in her arms to take a look.

"Wow… you look…I don't think I'm breathing anymore."

She giggled. Pleased with herself and her selection of dresses for the evening. The long sleeve dress was a shimmery silver and fell just above her knees. The material hugged her form like a glove. Showing off every beautiful curve.

She stood on the toes of her high heels and softly kissed him. It was more than a peck, but still appropriate considering there were people just in the other room.

"Yeah," Jack chuckled. "That kiss really didn't help my breathing."

"Come on, Thornton," Elizabeth took his hand and began pulling him into the main room where the guests were congregating. "Time to show you off."

"As you wish, angel. I'm all yours."

...

William made his way downstairs just in time to see his daughter drag Jack across the foyer. They looked ridiculously happy. He watched the gentle yet passionate way Jack looked at Elizabeth. Nothing but the deepest love, and respect.

They'd be leaving soon. Back to Seattle and then back to Haiti. Time was running out for him to get in gear and mend the torn relationship. He'd have to eat crow for that. He hated that idea, but he loved his little girl.

The first hour of the festivities were spent with Jack being introduced to more people than he could ever remember. They were nice. Many were excited to hear their news and meet the man who'd stolen one of the Thatcher Princess's hearts.

Taking a break from rubbing elbows, the young couple headed over to the hors d'oeuvres table.

"Jack?" A tall well-dressed older man approached them to get a closer look. "Jack Thornton, it is you!"

"Mr. Winters!" Jack smiled. "What a surprise!"

"A good one too. How are you, son?"

"I'm quite well. Are you a business associate or friend of Mr. Thatcher?"

"Both actually," he laughed. "What about you? How's your grandfather? He finally succeeded in convincing you to take over his business?"

"Not in the least," Jack said with a laugh. "I'm pretty sure he's given up on that one. He seems good with it, really."

"Good. A man should be allowed to blaze his own trail. That's what I've always said anyhow. So what brings you here then?"

"It's more of a who than a what." Jack reached back and wrapped his arm around Elizabeth's waist, pulling her close. "Have you met my fiance before? This is Elizabeth Thatcher."

"My goodness! Beth." Winters gave her a fatherly hug. "Last time I saw you I believe you were 17 with big dreams for your future! Now look at you, you're all grown up!"

"It's nice to see you again, too, Mr. Winters."

Mr. Winters brought his wife over to share the news.

"I think it's wonderful!" his wife said with joy. "Now tell me how did you two meet?"

"We've both been serving in Haiti for the last few months. I guess you could say we hit it off quite well," Elizabeth blushed.

"I'd say so!" the woman laughed.

"I'm sure you know this already, Beth, but you can't do better than this young man right here. And Jack, same goes for you where she's concerned. Does your grandfather know?"

"He does, yes. He's pretty excited too. Just not as excited as I am."

"As we both are," Elizabeth smiled up at him, kissing his cheek.

….

There were still a couple hours till midnight. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves. Even Jack.

William grabbed a cup of coffee and headed out to the stone patio out behind the house. There were heaters set up in various places and white twinkle lights. It was quite beautiful. He'd always been amazed at his wife's ability to take any space and make it a fairytale sight. She'd put the same skill to use for the Children's Hospital banquets and the Christmas party the hospital threw for the children. She was a blessing, that's for sure.

A hand slapped them on the back, making him nearly spill the hot beverage in his hand.

"Jason Winters!" He shook the man's hand. "I thought I saw you and your wife enjoying the dance floor a bit ago. How are you?"

"Very well, Will. Though not as well as you'd I'd imagine."

"How so?"

"Looks like congratulations are in order."

"I beg your pardon?"

"Beth and Jack! What a match!"

"Oh, you met Jack Thornton?"

"Oh, Jack and I go way back. You know I've been friends with Grant Elliott since grad school. Now that was a lifetime ago." He laughed.

William looked at the man a bit perplexed, but said nothing.

"My wife was surprised to hear that Beth and Trent had gone their separate ways. I can only imagine how that made you feel. You were ready to groom Trent to work with you and Charles in the business."

"Yes, that was very disappointing. Won't be doing that with Jack. He works as a firefighter, you know?"

"Yes, valedictorian of his class for fire science. I had heard he's been taking some classes periodically for a master."

"Oh! Good for him…" William tried to look impressed.

"Well, lucky Beth. Marrying into the Elliott family; and to a man like Jack! You should be proud, Will. She'll be in good hands."

William stayed there, flabbergasted as his friend walked back inside. The man had no idea that he'd just dropped a bomb on William.

Inside, Charles approached the bar and politely requested a beer.

"How are you holding up, Jack?" he asked.

"Not bad." He took a sip of his drink. "I used to attend a few of these back with my grandfather and grandmother."

"Oh, yes," Charles chuckled. "Secret's out about you now."

"What secret?"

"That you're part of the Elliott dynasty."

"Oh geez," Jack snickered. "That was never really a secret. It's just not something I talk about much."

"Why's that?"

"I didn't grow up in this world like Beth and you. I just visited it. My siblings and I went to cotillion for the sake of my grandmother, because we loved her. But to us the Elliot's were just Nana and Papa. Not the king of the financial district or anything like that. We lived humbly."

"It shows." Charles tipped his drink to Jack. "You're a solid man, Jack. Everyone here is talking about that and how lucky Beth is."

"I'm the lucky one. I mean really, look at her."

They both looked up just in time to see her laughing as an older woman shared a story with her. Elizabeth's hand rested gently on the woman's arm as she listened intently. Then she looked back at Jack, giving him a flirty wink.

"Whoa, I might need to steal her away soon."

"Try the pantry."

"Huh?" Jack had no idea what the man was getting at.

"The pantry in the back left corner of the kitchen. It's just a huge walk-in closet with shelves. It's where Viola and I used to go to sneak away during these things."

"And you sharing this little secret with me so we can invade you?" Jack teased.

"Not at all," Charles laughed. "We're married now, we do a little less sneaking around. By the stolen glances I've noticed from you and my little sister-in-law, I figured you might be able to use the space more than us."

Jack took one more look at his beautiful fiance and then grinned at Charles.

"Cover for me?"

"Sure thing," Charles laughed as Jack introduced himself to the older woman. Then after a short conversation, he whisked her down the hall.

Viola walked over and slid her hand in Charles', weaving their fingers together as one. "Where are they off to?"

He leaned in and whispered the answer. Viola just laughed.

Without being seen by the catering staff, Jack and Elizabeth moved into the pantry, hiding in the back, behind a row of shelves.

Jack gently pushed Elizabeth back against the shelves, teasing her lips with his own.

"What's gotten into you?" she whispered with a giggle.

"Do you have any idea how gorgeous you are?"

"Hmmm, not sure I do," she flirted. "Maybe you should tell me."

Instead of speaking, Jack leaned in leaving a trail of little kisses from her shoulder to just below her ear. She gripped his shoulders hard as he went. The feeling of his love was exhilarating coming close to being her undoing.

"Better idea," she gasped. "We don't need to talk."

He pulled back to look into her eyes. "You read my mind."

Minutes later, they headed back to the crowd of party attendees, hand in hand.

Elizabeth's mind was focused on one thing. They needed to get married. Maybe being back in the structured life in Haiti would help take their minds off of each other, but she wasn't so sure. Every moment with Jack left her more convinced that she was meant to be his wife.

"It's almost midnight," Jack said, kissing her hand. "I'll grab us some champagne."

"Okay. Thanks."

He kissed her cheek and headed toward one of the waiters with the trays of bubbly.

Jack, grabbing two glasses of champagne, then turned around and wound up face to face with William.

"You much of a drinker, Jack?"

"Not usually, actually. When I'm at home in Washington, I'm on call a lot. I don't drink then so I can be ready when needed. In Haiti there really isn't any in our village. Not that I mind. There was a place in the main part of the village a couple years ago that had alcohol but it wasn't a place you'd want to be."

"Why is that?"

"It was a little rustic cantina run by a pretty shifty character. He left though, and took all that kind of stuff with him thankfully. You know, the drugs, alcohol and the crime. I think he went into Port-au-Prince where he thought he could make more money."

"Interesting." William turned and grabbed two glasses of champagne. One for himself and one for Grace before continuing. "Almost as interesting as the family you come from."

"I assume you're referring to the Elliot's and not the Thornton's?"

William nodded. "I've also been told you're responsible. Kind. Trustworthy. And perfect for my Beth."

"She's perfect for me, sir. And we have a love for God and Haiti and those beautiful people who live there in common."

"For the record I don't doubt your goodness."

"You're worried." It wasn't a question.

"I am. What has Beth told you about my mother?"

"I know that she's named after her. She respects her a great deal."

"My mother was a strong and courageous woman. Due to circumstances out of her control she raised my sister and I on her own for many years."

"And you're worried with my career that that's something that Elizabeth will have to do."

"See? You are smart," William smirked.

"So I've been told," Jack smirked back. "Sir, I know that my job is dangerous, but it's also my calling. Have you ever felt God leading you toward someone or something? Such a strong pull that you can't resist?"

"Yes. When I met Grace."

"Okay then. That's where I am. I know that fighting fires is important. It makes a difference. It saves lives. I am good at what I do and I promise you, I will always try my hardest to come home to Beth and our family."

"Do you feel a similar pull to Beth? Or is she just someone to come home to?"

"Your daughter is the love of my life. Yes, I feel such a pull towards her."

"If you had to choose, her or the job, what would you choose?"

"I don't believe she would ask me to choose unless she had a very good reason. I trust her. Should that time come, we will make the decision together."

"It's time!" Julie cheered from near the DJ table, ending the men's conversation.

Everyone grabbed their champagne and many headed out to the stone patio to await the city's fireworks which would soon light up the sky.

"10, 9, 8, 7…" everyone counted down.

"Jack! Guess what?" Elizabeth said excitedly as they huddled together in the cold winter air. "Before this next year is over, we will be husband and wife."

"3, 2, 1… Happy New Year!"

Fireworks filled the skies as couples kissed. Jack and Elizabeth, were certainly no exception.

"I love you Angel. Promise me we won't wait too much longer. I want to be your husband."

"I promise."