The next couple weeks passed in a blur of happiness for Elizabeth. She saw her parents acting in ways she never would have thought possible. They were active and engaged with Allie and Jack, forming strong relationships with their grandchildren. Her father and Nathan went fishing together, and when William came home one day holding up a fish proudly, Elizabeth had to remind herself to breathe. Her parents were transforming before her eyes, Hope Valley working its magic touch on them. Both of them had abandoned the formal clothes they normally wore. Her father went around town in shirt and suspenders, while her mother wore the simpler dresses that were common with Hope Valley women.

William kept up with work via telephone. Nathan had one installed in their home in case someone needed to get a hold of him with a Mountie emergency, and William had been using it to keep in contact with his employees. One day, Elizabeth walked into the room as her father was hanging up the phone. He smiled at her, and she smiled back, a hand resting on her baby. "Everything going well back in Hamilton?"

Her father nodded. "It is. That was Charles. He's been very good at helping keep the business on track."

Elizabeth's brows rose in surprise. Neither of her parents had mentioned Charles in years, and she found herself wondering what her childhood friend was doing. "How is Charles, Father?"

William leaned back in his chair. "He's good. He got married a few years ago, you know."

Elizabeth sat on the settee, shaking her head. "I didn't know that. But I'm happy for him." She smiled. "I assume he married a lovely Hamilton socialite?"

Chuckling, William shook his head. "Actually, he met a sweet young woman with not a penny to her name, from a family no one had heard of. He fell for her hard and fast, and they were married within a few months. They have two adorable children now."

Elizabeth's mouth dropped, shocked. "What? Charles Kensington III married a poor woman?" She laughed, amazed. "And now he's happy." Her laughter softened into a smile. "I'm happy for him. That's wonderful."

William nodded. "His family was none too thrilled, I can tell you. His parents nearly disowned him. But he insisted that he was in love, and eventually they came around."

"That's a twist," Elizabeth said softly. "But I'm glad that they came around. I always wanted Charles to find happiness."

"He certainly has," William said. He smiled at his daughter. "As have you. And that makes me happier than I can say." He leaned back. "I thought you marrying another Mountie was a terrible idea. But after seeing you and Nathan together, I can see just how perfect you are for each other. That man is entirely in love with you. I've never seen two people so happy." His eyes softened. "And your children are wonderful. Your mother and I love spending time with Allie and Jack." He sat up a little straighter, and Elizabeth saw a new light in his eyes. "Elizabeth, what would you think of sending Jack and Allie to stay with us for a few weeks on a holiday? Maybe not right away, but we would love to have them stay with us. Is that something you would be open to?"

Elizabeth thought about it, then smiled. "I'd have to talk to Nathan, but I think that might be a good idea. They adore you and Mother, and I think they would be excited to spend time in Hamilton." She chuckled. "I doubt they've ever seen anything as fancy and regal as the life you live there."

William waved a hand. "That's not why I want them to come. It could give you and Nathan some time to yourselves. Maybe they can visit before the baby is born. That way you and your husband have some time to yourselves, just the two of you."

Elizabeth liked the sound of that. She smiled. "I think it's safe to say that we would strongly consider it."

"Excellent!" William said, a broad smile crossing his face. "I can't tell you how much I love those children of yours, Elizabeth. They are a joy."

"I know," Elizabeth said, a smile playing at her lips. "They've both brought so much joy to my life as well."

William stood, pulling Elizabeth into a hug. "I'm so glad we were able to come, my dear. It's done us so much good to be able to see you here in your home with your husband and children." He patted her back. "You chose the right life for yourself. I'm glad you listened to your heart."

Elizabeth couldn't believe the change in her father. She was still pondering it hours later as she lay in bed with Nathan. "My parents are different people," she said in awe. "I've never seen them the way they've been here in Hope Valley."

Nathan had one arm around Elizabeth, and his other hand was resting over their baby, moving in slow circles as if protecting the child even in the womb. He smiled at her, his eyes gentle. "I've only known them as they've been here, but from everything you've told me, they are indeed changed. I'm glad they're happy here."

Elizabeth looked up at him. "That reminds me. Father wants to bring Allie and Jack to Hamilton before the baby is born so you and I can have some time to ourselves. What do you think?"

Nathan considered it. "How long would they be gone?"

"Probably a couple weeks," Elizabeth said.

"Hmm," Nathan said, looking like he was thinking it over. "Is that something you would be comfortable with?"

She nodded. "I think so. And I think it would be a wonderful opportunity for Jack and Allie. They adore their grandparents, and I think it would be a great bonding experience for them."

"Okay," Nathan said with a nod. "Then I think it's a good idea. You can tell William and Grace that we can plan a trip for the kids."

Elizabeth hugged him. "That will make their day. Thank you, Nathan."

He chuckled. "No problem." Winking, he said, "The thought of spending uninterrupted time with my lovely wife is very appealing." He kissed her cheek, then nuzzled her neck. "Have I mentioned that you seem to get more and more beautiful every single day?"

She giggled as the day's growth of stubble on his face tickled her neck. "You might have mentioned it a time or two in the past few weeks." Lately, Nathan had taken to telling her every day that she was beautiful and that he loved her more each day. He touched her stomach any chance he got, frequently talking to the baby and even singing to "his little Kathleen." Elizabeth loved every moment of it, and she smiled as Nathan started to rub her stomach and talk to their baby again. She ran her fingers through his hair as he told the baby that her brother and sister were going to visit Grandma and Grandpa so that Mommy and Daddy could have time together before she came along.

"You do realize it's going to take a lot of adjusting if Kathleen ends up being a boy, right?" Elizabeth asked with a chuckle as Nathan cooed to his little girl.

Nathan looked at her confidently. "She's a girl," he said. "Jack, Allie, and I can't all be wrong." He settled back into his spot next to her, tucking her into his arms. "And even you have said you sense the baby is a girl."

"True," Elizabeth said. "But that doesn't guarantee anything."

Nathan laughed, pulling her closer. "You're right, it doesn't. But until we're proven wrong, her name is Kathleen." He pressed a tender kiss to her lips. "I love you, Elizabeth. It still awes me that you have the awesome privilege of carrying our little girl, keeping her safe and warm inside of you." His hand found her stomach again. "Mothers are true heroes."

Elizabeth blushed lightly at his compliment, but she smiled. "You're going to make a wonderful father to this child, Nathan. You already are."

He leaned down to kiss her again, taking his time. Elizabeth wrapped her arms around his neck, leaning her head against his chest when they pulled back. "Thank you, Elizabeth," Nathan whispered. "That means the world to me."

She knew he was thinking of his own father, fearing that he might not measure up to what their child needed. "Kathleen is going to be the luckiest child in the world to have you as her daddy," Elizabeth said. "Just like Allie and Jack are." She ran a hand down his cheek. "You have so much love in that big heart of yours, and you give it freely and without reserve. I can't wait to watch you with your baby."

Nathan smiled, leaning his head against hers. She could feel his contentment radiating from him. It matched her own. Yawning, she snuggled closer to him, then fell into a deep sleep, safe and warm in her husband's arms.

"Lucas?" Fiona said, looking at him across the desk.

"Hmm?" he responded, looking between two financial reports in front of him. Fiona waited until he looked up at her. It took a few moments, but he finally caught on. "Sorry, my dear. What did you want to say?"

She smiled. "I was just thinking it would be nice to have a Christmas wedding. It sounded perfect when Elizabeth and Nathan were planning theirs, but since they had to move it up, maybe we should have our wedding then."

Lucas leaned back in his chair, mulling it over. "I think that would be lovely," he said, nodding. "Do you think Nathan and Elizabeth would mind?"

"I'm not sure," Fiona said. She was about to say something more when she saw Elizabeth walk past the office. "There's Elizabeth now! I'll go ask her."

Lucas chuckled, and Fiona could hear Henry start to say something to him from his desk across the room, but she didn't pause to listen. "Elizabeth!" she called out, running toward her friend.

Elizabeth turned, a wide smile on her face as she recognized Fiona. "Fiona! It's so good to see you," she said, giving her a hug. Fiona could feel Elizabeth's baby bump against her own stomach, and she smiled as she pulled away. "You seem to be growing more every day!" she exclaimed. "You're three months along?"

Elizabeth nodded. "Three and a half. I'm showing much earlier than I did with Jack. Carson said that's normal for second pregnancies."

"Oh, I can't wait to have a baby," Fiona said dreamily.

Elizabeth's brows shot up with a grin. "Why, Fiona, I don't recall you ever mentioning wanting children before! How many do you want?"

Fiona blushed slightly. "I don't know, to be honest. I come from a big family, but I don't know how my mother handled so many children. I've always thought three would be a good number, though I'm open to more or less than that."

Elizabeth smiled. "I hope it happens for you, Fiona. You'd make a good mother."

"Thanks," Fiona said. "I think we're going to wait for a bit before having a child…" She stopped as Elizabeth started laughing uncontrollably. "What?" she asked, bewildered.

"Never...say...that," Elizabeth gasped between laughs. "It could be that you wait for a time, or you could end up like me, pregnant on your wedding night." She wiped some tears from her eyes, still grinning. "Personally, I can't wait to see Lucas's reaction when he finds out he's going to be a father. I imagine lots of excitement and lots of panic at the same time."

Fiona laughed. "I don't think you're wrong there!"

After their laugh together, Elizabeth tilted her head. "Was there something you needed?" she asked.

"Oh!" Fiona said. "I'd completely forgotten. Yes, there is. Lucas and I were talking about a wedding date, and I wanted to know if it was one you would be okay with."

Elizabeth looked confused. "You want my approval for your wedding date?"

Fiona smiled. "Well, not exactly. You see, we were thinking of maybe having a Christmas wedding, since you and Nathan had to move yours up. But we wanted to make sure that was okay with you."

Elizabeth gasped. "Of course!" she said immediately. "That would be wonderful! Hope Valley hasn't had a Christmas wedding yet, and I think we should! I'd love it if you and Lucas have your wedding then."

"Oh, thank you," Fiona said, feeling relief sweep over her. "I figured you would be okay with it, but just wanted to make sure."

Elizabeth smiled. "You're going to have a beautiful wedding, Fiona. I can't wait to see it." She tucked an arm around her friend. "You deserve happiness, and it's obvious that Lucas makes you happy."

"He does," Fiona said softly. "I can't believe how much I love him."

"And he loves you," Elizabeth observed. "I've never seen him look this smitten before. There's a look in his eyes that tells me he thinks you're the most precious person in the world."

Fiona smiled shyly. "I'm excited that we get to spend our lives together."

Elizabeth squeezed her arm. "The two of you are a match made in heaven. I'm excited to see your love story continue to play out."

"Thanks, Elizabeth," Fiona said. Noticing the basket on Elizabeth's arm, she raised a brow. "Where are you off to?"

"School starts in a couple days, and I want to make sure everything is ready," Elizabeth said. "I'm heading for the school now."

"Oh, how exciting! I'm sure you're ready to see your students again every day," Fiona said.

Elizabeth nodded. "Absolutely. I've missed them."

"Well, don't let me keep you. See you later, Elizabeth!"

"Bye, Fiona," Elizabeth said with a smile, waving as she walked toward the school. Fiona went back into the oil office. Sitting, she grinned at Lucas. "A Christmas wedding it is!"

Nathan took in the scene in front of him, feeling blessed. William was helping Jack chase butterflies while Grace, Elizabeth, and Allie were gathering wildflowers from the field. They had agreed to meet here for a dinner picnic. Nathan had just gotten off work and had come to the appointed spot. As he watched his family, he felt a sense of pride and love wash over him. They were happy, healthy, and full of joy. What more could he ask for?

William and Grace were leaving on tomorrow's morning train, and this picnic dinner was their last activity as a family, as well as a celebration of Elizabeth's successful first week of school. Allie and Jack were already asking when they could go visit Grandma and Grandpa, and they had settled on a date in mid-November, giving the children time with their grandparents but allowing them to be home for Christmas. Allie would keep up on her schoolwork from Hamilton. The children were beyond excited, and Nathan wondered how they were going to keep them occupied between now and their November trip.

Jack caught sight of him and came running. "Daddy!" he cried, jumping into Nathan's arms.

"Hey, Jack!" Nathan said, kissing his son's forehead. "How's my favorite little man?"

"We cat'ing butterfwies!" Jack said, wiggling to get down again and taking Nathan's hand. "C'mon. You hewp!"

Nathan allowed himself to be led to William. He stopped briefly to kiss Elizabeth, ruffle Allie's hair, and hug Grace. Then he ran with his son and father-in-law through the field, trying to catch butterflies. Nathan's large hands closed around one, and he carefully knelt down in the field. "Look, Jack," he said softly. "Daddy caught one. If we're really quiet, maybe the butterfly will stay on my hand."

Jack nodded, eyes wide, as William smiled down at them. Nathan slowly opened his hand, and the butterfly stayed there, its wings slowly flapping. Jack's mouth was hanging open, and Nathan whispered, "Hold up your finger, son."

Jack obeyed, and Nathan transferred the butterfly to Jack's finger. Once again, it stayed there, and Jack giggled happily. The sound caused the butterfly to fly away, and Jack clapped his hands together. "Find anoder!" he hollered, racing through the field once more.

When Jack was finally tired of chasing butterflies, everyone gathered on the large picnic blanket they'd brought. Elizabeth and Grace filled plates with chicken, potato salad, and fruit, passing them around to their hungry family members. Bottles of soda were passed around as well, and as they all started eating, Nathan took a moment to send up a silent prayer of thanks for his family.

He felt Elizabeth's arms slide around him, and he looked down to see that she was watching their little family interact as well. "This has been a wonderful time," she said quietly. "I didn't think I would enjoy my parents being here for an entire month, but it has been amazing." She kissed his cheek. "Thank you for taking the risk and inviting them here. It's restored our relationship in ways I didn't think was possible."

Nathan smiled as Elizabeth rested her head against his shoulder, taking sips of her soda. "I'm glad it worked out. I really like your parents."

"They really like you too," Elizabeth said. "They keep telling me they're glad they were wrong about you." She chuckled. "And I keep telling them I'm glad they came around."

"Maybe we'll have to travel to Hamilton to pick up the kids," Nathan suggested. "I would love to see where you grew up."

Elizabeth smiled. "Really? I would love that. And I'm sure Mother and Father would too." She settled against him, both of them basking in the joy of watching their children happily chatting away with their grandparents.

Nathan found himself excited about the idea of visiting Hamilton. He wanted to get an inside look at Elizabeth's life growing up, and he couldn't wait to see how their kids liked being there. He pulled Elizabeth a little closer. Life was good, and they were blessed.

He felt more content than he'd ever felt before in his life.