Elizabeth had one more letter to write before turning in for the night. But the thought filled her with fear. A happy fear. But a fear nonetheless.
Pausing for a moment, Elizabeth stared at the picture of Jack in his Mountie uniform. "I'm trying now, Jack," she whispered.
Dear Nathan her next letter began
I'm so happy that you are safe. Hope Valley couldn't stand to lose another beloved Mountie. I couldn't stand the thought of losing another one. One that I care deeply about, perhaps more than I thought I realized.
I have been fighting so many emotions in my heart and in my head this last year. My actions have made sense to no one, not even myself. But in the span of a few moments, I have clarity. About me. About my
You asked me to dinner at the Café. My answer is yes.
Honestly, Elizabeth
Elizabeth smiled as she put down her pen. She realized her heart was booming with this admittance of feelings. Never once had Nathan made her feel uncomfortable or disrespectful of boundaries. He reminded her in many ways of Jack—but he truly had made the red serge his own. And in her eyes as well.
Elizabeth stood up and put on her coat. Seeing that Rosemary and Lee's light was still on, she walked next door and lightly rapped on the door.
"Elizabeth," Lee answered. "Is everything alright?"
Elizabeth felt sheepish all of a sudden. How could she explain what she was about to do?
"I'm perfectly well, thank you Lee. And so is Little Jack. I just need to run down the row for a moment. Would you and Rosemary mind stepping over to my house…in case Little Jack wakes up?"
Lee looked confused. But Rosemary had approached the door with a knowing look.
"We'd be happy to Elizabeth."
With a smile and a nod, Elizabeth turned away and walked away. Lee looked at Rosemary, "Where is she going?"
"Never you mind, Lee." She kissed his cheek. "Now come, let's go and keep an eye on Little Jack."