Disclaimer: I do not own the characters within this story. All rights and much respect go to Crown Media, Hallmark, Brian Bird, Michael Landon, Jr., the actors, creators, and writers of the show "When Calls the Heart." Any real people or places noted in the chapter are just there for storyline purposes.
Chapter 1- Fate or Choices
For the past few years, Elizabeth Thatcher had been living the life of which she'd always dreamed. As a communications major at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, she'd remained following graduation to pursue her Master's Degree.
Upon graduation, Elizabeth took a job as an on-air television news reporter for WRAL in Raleigh, North Carolina. At the age of twenty-seven, she was one of the youngest on-air reporters, and many of the old-timers took her under their wing to show her the ropes.
Although she kept her first name, she was advised that many of the reporters used pseudonyms for their last name. It was simply a safety feature. She thought, trying to come up with something that was both catchy and sophisticated. Sadly, everything she considered made her sound like a cartoon character, hardly someone to trust with providing the news of the day.
On-air she went by Elizabeth Standish, settling on the partial name of the street where she was raised, Miles Standish Road. However, it took nearly a month of reporting before she was tuned into the name, appearing lost at times when the news anchor would say, "Elizabeth Standish is standing outside the City Hall building," needing her cameraman to wave his arm to gain her attention.
On this beautiful late spring day, Elizabeth stood in a field of growing corn, glancing around and waiting for the signal that they were going live. Receiving the word from the station, Elizabeth held the microphone near her mouth and waited for her cameraman to give her the "Thumbs up."
With the signal now received, she began, "Hi Mark, (referring to the news anchor in the studio), I've been out here most of the day, and if Pete, my cameraman, can scan the area, you will see the police and public presence is still here. Thankfully, about fifteen minutes ago, three-year-old Hannah Jacobs, who had been missing since yesterday afternoon was found in the middle of this expansive field. Shockingly, she was being protected by a black Labrador Retriever, who initially didn't want to let anyone near the child."
Mark cut in, "Well, I have heard that Labrador Retrievers take very good care of their family members."
"Yes, I've heard that to be true, but Mark, what makes this so interesting is that the Lab apparently doesn't belong to anyone in this community. She instinctively watched over Hannah, barking as she heard voices calling in the distance."
"So, what's going on now?" Mark asked.
"Hannah has been transported to WakeMed with her parents, and unfortunately, with no one to take possession of the dog, she was taken to the pound. So, if anyone is interested, contact Cary Animal Control."
With the story finished, Pete put the equipment away and they headed back to the studio.
"You're quiet; is something wrong?" Pete asked, but before she could answer, he continued, "I mean, little Hannah is safe. It's the end to a good story."
"But what about the dog?" Elizabeth asked, her eyes watering as she thought about the beautiful black Labrador locked in a cage.
"What do you mean, what about her? I'm sure that someone will adopt her," Pete responded.
"Do you really think so?" She asked, clearly not convinced.
"Well, I would think so. She seemed like a very nice dog."
"Pete, she saved that little girl's life, and now she's stuck in a cage, and I'll bet she's scared," Elizabeth stated as Pete took a left instead of a right. "Where are you going?"
"We're going to Animal Control so you can adopt the dog," he stated as he pulled into the parking lot of the city managed facility. "I'll wait right here; you go inside and get your dog."
Elizabeth hopped out of the news van, the first time Pete had seen her smile all day, but before she closed the door she turned back to her cameraman, "Am I being crazy here?"
"Most likely, but are you going to continue fretting over her; most definitely…"
Elizabeth rushed inside the building, and with staff recognizing her from TV, they assumed that they were about to be interviewed.
"Hi, I'm Elizabeth…"
"I know who you are," Joseph, the kennel assistant responded. "How can I help you?"
"There was a black Labrador Retriever brought in recently, and I'd like to adopt her," Elizabeth stated, so excited that she could barely remain still.
"Oh, you mean the one who stayed with the little girl?" Joseph asked.
"Yes, that's the one. I'd like to adopt her," Elizabeth stated as she began rifling through her purse for identification.
"Oh, I'm sorry, she hasn't been processed yet, but we can't release her until she's been here for two weeks," he advised. "That gives her owners the opportunity to claim her before she's put up for adoption."
With her smile now gone, Elizabeth wrote out her real name, phone number and address…
Elizabeth Thatcher
4812 Waterford Point Drive, Apt 2-C
Raleigh, NC 27612
919-436-9822
"Please know that I'd love to adopt her if no one comes forward," she stated as she folded up her information and slid it across the counter to Joseph.
Realizing that he was not getting interviewed today, or losing a dog in their population, Joseph lost all interest in the subject, knowing that this black Labrador was simply going to add to their numbers.
"May I go back and see her?" Elizabeth asked.
"Sure; through the door and she's in kennel number…" he looked on the board, "16…"
"Thank you…" Elizabeth responded. "Please don't forget; I want to adopt her."
"I've got it. Oh, wait, she's not in the kennel yet. She's still in processing so go all the way down the hall," he stated as he held up the still folded piece of paper containing her contact information. "Just check back in two weeks and if she's still here, she can be yours," Joseph stated as he watched her walk through the door before he tossed her contact information in a bowl on the counter.
Although Elizabeth was set on the black Labrador Retriever in kennel #16, she couldn't help feeling bad for the Sheltie in kennel #12, the terrier mix in kennel #13, and the Great Dane in combined kennels #14 and #15.
"Hey Sugar…no, that's not your name. How about Flint since that's a type of corn and you were found in a cornfield," she proceeded to justify her thought. "Okay, no that's not it either. "How about…Bella?"
As the dog's tail wagged incessantly, Elizabeth was set on the name. "Okay, Bella it is…"
Elizabeth squatted down and put her finger through the fencing. As Bella began to rub her body along the kennel fencing, she licked Elizabeth's finger, seemingly aware that she'd have a home soon.
"I wish you could come home with me now, but I promise, I'll be back, and you will come home with me in two weeks," Elizabeth promised.
Pete was listening to music when Elizabeth came back outside, "Where's the dog?"
"Bella has to stay for two weeks, but I'll be back to get her then. I left my contact information, so I'm sure that my name will be first on the list for her," she advised.
"So, you've already named her?" Pete asked.
"Of course, she needed an official name," she stated as she climbed into the van, feeling as though her life now had a bit more purpose.
As Pete pulled out of the parking lot, an impressive, brand new red F-250 pickup truck pulled in and was parked near the front. A young man, approximately 28 to 30 years of age, muscular, clean shaven, and by all accounts quite handsome stepped inside the Animal Control building.
"Hi Lieutenant," Joseph called out as he stretched his arm across the counter to shake the young man's hand. It was obvious that the man had previously made a positive impression on Joseph.
"I'm officially retired, I'm just Jack Thornton now," the young man advised.
"WOW, you're so young to be retired," Joseph remarked. "You were a pilot, right?"
"Yes, I was, and I still am, just not with the Navy…retiring early wasn't something I planned. I injured my knee in a hard carrier landing, and although I'm back to normal, the decision was made when I thought I wouldn't be 100%," Jack explained. Trying to change the subject, Jack stated, "So any new prospects come in?"
"There is a beautiful black Lab back in processing; she'll be available in two weeks," Joseph advised. "Go back and take a look."
An hour later Jack walked through the door and back into the main waiting area. "What do you think?" Joseph asked.
"I love her, and I need her," Jack stated as he gave Joseph his contact information.
"Okay, well be here early two weeks from today, okay?"
"I'll be here," Jack stated as he left the building, unaware that as he stepped outside, Joseph tossed Elizabeth's contact information in the trashcan.
Jack returned to his apartment, stepping over boxes, both full and empty, as he continued packing and preparing for his move and the beginning of his new career as a private pilot.
WRAL- Raleigh, NC
Elizabeth had been with the station for a little more than a year when the following week, the new powers that be came in and shook every department to its core. Gone on Friday was the entire morning news team, with two new anchors, a sports reporter and meteorologist starting fresh on Monday at 4:30am.
The buzz about the station was that the mid-day show and many of the field reporters would be next, followed by the evening crew, and as a result, concern over the upheaval had everyone scrambling.
Elizabeth hadn't seen Bella since she dropped off her information, and although she still wanted to adopt her, she was concerned about the possibility of losing her job, and therefore being unable to care for her.
With everything on her mind, she wasn't really thinking, so when her car unexpectedly turned into the Animal Control parking lot, she suddenly smiled, knowing that Bella was still meant to be hers.
Walking inside, she approached the counter and the young girl who was filing down her nails while she chatted on the phone.
Elizabeth stood for a few minutes waiting for the young girl to acknowledge her presence, but when she did not do so, Elizabeth rang the bell on the counter.
"I see you," the girl snapped.
"Well, you could have fooled me," Elizabeth replied. "Look, I just want to spend some time with the dog I'm going to adopt. Is it okay if I go out to the kennels?"
"Help yourself," she remarked. As Elizabeth started for the door the girl asked, "Which dog is it?"
"She's supposed to be in kennel #16; the black Labrador," Elizabeth stated, proud of herself that she even remembered which kennel Bella was supposed to be in."
"Are you sure?" she asked as she pulled out the book which contained contact information for the various animal requests.
"Yes, but maybe you've moved her to another kennel; maybe one for those who are definitely being adopted," Elizabeth suggested.
"I'm sorry, but we don't have anything like that," she stated as she opened the logbook to check. "Oh, here it is, someone came in last week and put their name on the list for her, so you were just a little too late," the girl advised as she closed the book and stepped from the desk to put it away.
"They came in last week?" Elizabeth asked. "Well, I was in last week; it must be my information. I mean, she had just been brought in, and hadn't even been processed yet. There is no way that anyone beat me on this one," she felt the need to fight for her dog. "Please check again; I left my information with a guy named Joseph."
"I'm sorry, but he doesn't work here anymore," she advised. "I can't tell you who the person is for obvious confidentiality reasons, but what I can do is tell you that she will be available on Friday. So, I'd suggest you get here early."
Elizabeth's Townhouse…
Feeling as though nothing was going well in her life, she went home and sat outside with a glass of wine, hoping to take the edge off her disappointing day.
As a good reporter, Elizabeth jumped on her phone when it rang…
"Hello…"
"Hi honey; your dad and I were thinking about you," her mother stated.
"Thinking about me; why, is something wrong?"
"We hope not, but your dad heard that there were some changes taking place down at the station. Is your job okay?"
"Well, I'm still working, but everyone is on edge waiting for the other shoe to fall," Elizabeth replied.
"Do you think it will?"
"I assume so, I'm just hoping that it doesn't hit me."
Mr. Thatcher joined the conversation from his study, "Well, there is always a job for you here."
"I know Daddy, and thank you, but I love what I do. I'm sure it will be okay, and if not, maybe I need to look in a different market."
"You aren't going to move away, are you?"
"Mom, I don't plan to, but I don't want my job to end and not have anything to fall back on…"
"Elizabeth, I always have a place for you in the company."
"I know that Daddy, but I truly love reporting, and I'm sure everything will work out," she did her best to reassure them, hoping to calm her own nervousness in the process.
"Oh, I'm getting a dog," she continued, thankful to have information to change the subject.
"Oh, honey, that's wonderful," her mother's tone was now light and cheery. "You'll love having a dog again. I know you miss Princess Rainbow."
"Speaking of which, why did you let me name her that?"
"Honey, you were six years old when we got her, and you were stuck on that name," Mrs. Thatcher reminded her middle daughter.
"Well, I'm certainly not stuck on it anymore," Elizabeth advised.
"I'm happy for you honey. You'll love having a dog around again," her mother confirmed what Elizabeth already believed. "What kind of dog is it?"
"A Labrador Retriever."
"They are wonderful family dogs…you know for when you give us grandkids," her mother responded.
"Mom…I'm not dating anyone. Besides, I'm not even thirty yet; I have plenty of time to give you and dad a grandchild."
"Honey leave her alone; I'm not sure there's a man out there who's worthy of her," Mr. Thatcher added.
"Daddy, stop that."
Wanting to change the topic again, Elizabeth asked, "Anything new happening with you guys?"
"Your dad is hiring a new pilot," Mrs. Thatcher advised.
"Oh no, is Captain Cole okay?" Elizabeth asked.
"Oh, he's fine. We're just doing more flying around the country, and we've opened another office in Charlotte," her father advised.
"Well, next time you see Captain Cole, tell him I said 'Hi.'"
"Elizabeth, when are coming by to see us?" her mother asked.
"I'll try, Mom. I'm at the station or out on stories most days, but I'll get by soon. Maybe I'll bring my new dog by when I get her."
"When do you get your dog?" her mother asked.
"Next Friday; I'll do my best to bring her by to meet her grandparents."
"Elizabeth," Mrs. Thatcher released a hard breath, "I love dogs, but I hope you do understand that this is not what I'm referring to when I talk about grandchildren."
"I know mom, but since I'm not dating and have no prospects in the near future, my dog is all you'll get right now."
"Well, I have a prospect for you…"
"What are you talking about, mom?"
"Your dad's new pilot…" Mrs. Thatcher directed her next question to her husband who was still listening in on the phone, "The new pilot, he's single, right?"
"I don't know, and he's my pilot, he's not being hired as Elizabeth's boyfriend."
"Mom…dad, please let me find my own boyfriend," Elizabeth's tone was firm. "Look, I love you both, but I've got to go."
"Love you, dear," Mrs. Thatcher stated as she hung up the phone.
"I love you honey. Come by and see us soon," her father added before he ended the call.
WRAL- Raleigh, NC…
Although emotions had eased around the station, and no other firings had been announced, Elizabeth still assumed that her job was no more secure this week as it was the last. Sitting at the computer, she began searching for positions with local stations, and their affiliates, located within a few hours travel time. Sadly, she remained concerned that as quickly as the firings had seemingly ended, they could just as quickly begin again, leaving her out in the cold with no employer and/or possible employment opportunities.
Friday morning arrived and Elizabeth was showered, dressed and out the door at 7:30am, planning to be at Animal Control well before they opened at 9. She was the first vehicle in the parking lot, and hoped that as the owner of a brand new blue Ford Explorer, the person making the decision as to who is more capable of caring for Bella would see that she had plenty of room and assume that she was financially stable. Truthfully, as of right now, she was employed and financially stable.
Another vehicle pulled into the parking lot at 8:15am, and she prayed that it belonged to an employee. When the driver, a guy, and from what she could see, quite handsome, didn't exit the vehicle, Elizabeth assumed that he was her competition. Sadly, the fact that he was driving an equally new red F-250 crew cab pickup truck shot her vehicle choice all to pieces. Everyone knows that a Labrador just looks at home with a guy in a pickup truck.
She stepped out of her vehicle wearing a pair of skinny jeans that thankfully hugged her perfect curves, and a black long sleeve loose pleated tunic top with a pair of tennis shoes. She stood in front of her vehicle hoping to get a head start when the door opened.
"The guy" stepped out of his truck and walked over to the bench in the courtyard of Animal Control, much closer to the door than she currently stood waiting. Her thoughts of anger at him trying to sneak in ahead of her were slightly tempered as he sat looking quite scrumptious in a pair of stonewashed jeans. Then she observed the grey hoodie he was wearing with a black Labrador on the front.
"Seriously dude…" she frustratingly whispered as it appeared that he was going all out to win this dog, and she wasn't even sure he knew that they were competing.
Elizabeth walked over and stood near the door, making certain that she'd be the first one inside.
"You look anxious," the young man stated as he walked over to join her. "Are you here to pick up or just looking?"
"Pick up…you?"
"Same…"
"What are you getting?" she asked, although she knew in her heart that he was there to steal her dog.
"I returned from Afghanistan three months ago, and…"
She heard his voice quiver, "Thank you for your service," she quickly added.
"You're welcome," he smiled; it was a gentle smile and he quickly pulled her in. "I'm sorry; my dog passed away while I was deployed. I'd had him for fifteen years, and I didn't even get a chance to say goodbye."
His eyes were misty, and her heart ached for this man she didn't even know. The more she thought, the more she realized that there was no doubt in her mind…her Bella would be perfect for him. "I'm so sorry for your loss," she stated.
He glanced away to wipe a few tears that slipped down his cheeks. Suddenly, although he wanted to move on, and he needed to move on; he wasn't certain that he'd finished grieving the four-legged companion he'd recently lost.
Continuing, he stated, "I come to Animal Control every week, looking for just the right dog."
His face suddenly lit up, "I found her two weeks ago. She's a black Lab, and she's just what I need. I've already named her too."
"Oh, what's her name…?" Elizabeth asked, although he had a heartbreaking story, the name he picked couldn't possibly be as perfect as hers.
"Bella," because she's beautiful and perfect.
"Bella…that's a beautiful name," Elizabeth responded, now more certain than ever that this was her sign that she couldn't take the dog away from him. After all the service he had provided to the country, it was selfish of her to fight him over "her dog."
"I wish they'd go ahead and open the door," he stated looking slightly nervous. "I need to take her to the Vet and get her checked out before we go camping this weekend." Looking out into the parking lot his comment seemed to trail off, "Camping was our special activity."
Elizabeth could only assume that he was missing his older dog terribly, but knew that with Bella, he would quickly feel that love again, and begin making new memories with her.
The man continued, "I can't believe how lucky I am; it must have been meant to be to find Bella before our move."
Oh no, a chance encounter with Bella in the park won't happen now, she thought.
Although he didn't say, and she certainly didn't ask, she assumed that he was married and taking his family camping. She was certain that the loss of the family dog was difficult on everyone, but she was just as sure that the addition of Bella would heal more than just his heart.
As an employee headed for the door to open for business, the man looked much like a kid at Christmas, and although she felt sorry for herself, she knew she was doing the right thing.
"I'm sorry; I'm Jack…"
"Hi Jack, I'm Elizabeth…"
His eyes caught hers and his smile was engaging, "It's very nice to meet you Elizabeth."
As the door opened, Jack stood back to allow Elizabeth to enter first, "I'm not sure where Bella came from, but I feel so lucky to get her," he commented.
"Thank you," she acknowledged as she stepped in front of him through the door. "I guess some things are just meant to be."
"Enjoy your new dog," he stated as he excitedly headed down the hallway.
"You too…" she stood at the door trying to decide what to do, saddened by the fact that after today she'd never see Bella again.
Once he disappeared around the corner, Elizabeth slipped back outside and pulled her Explorer around to the far end of the parking lot and she waited.
Forty-five minutes later, Jack and Bella walked outside and headed for his truck. She was on a leash, but it didn't appear that it was necessary as she made no attempt to slip away from him. Elizabeth sat quietly and watched. She didn't truly know either of them, but by all appearances, they both looked happy. She envisioned Jack with his wife and two small boys having the best time on their camping trip with their new family member.
Jack opened his truck; he picked Bella up in his arms, hugging her as he placed her inside where she happily sat in the middle of the front bench seat beside him. She could see Bella turn and lick Jack's cheek through the back window, and she smiled through her tears.
He pulled out onto the highway, and as he disappeared, she prayed that Bella would have a wonderful life with Jack and his lucky family.
The vet visit went well. Bella had a slight ear infection, but with a good cleaning, and an antibiotic, the Vet advised that she would be good as new. Bella was given the all clear to go camping, so Jack drove by his apartment and picked up his best friend, Lee Coulter who was in town visiting, and off for a weekend of fishing and hiking they went.
Jack, Lee and Bella headed for a local camping spot, Durant Nature Preserve, located within the City of Raleigh. They rented a large cabin on the water, and with Jack having recently returned from Afghanistan, he and Lee took this time to catch up on each other's lives.
As they sat and played a rousing game of Rummy, Lee advised him that married life was wonderful, and in the peacefulness of nature, the conversation immediately jumped to Jack's romantic possibilities.
"Man, you're worst than Rosie; I'm not dating anyone right now, and I'm just taking some time to acclimate myself to being out of the military," Jack advised him.
"Well, I'll tell you this, Rosie is so excited that you're moving to Charlotte, so don't be surprised if she pushes you to meet some of her lady friends," Lee prepared him for Rosie's romantic push.
"Lee, please don't make me wish that I hadn't taken this job. I mean, I want to be closer to you guys, and I love flying, so this move seemed logical, but you need to make her understand, I'll find someone when I'm meant to."
"Do you really believe in that fate stuff?"
"I sure do, don't you?"
"I don't know; I mean we all met at NC State, so what's the fate in that?"
"Lee, think about it, of all the schools you and Rosie could have gone to, you both selected NC State…and"
Lee glanced in his direction, not completely concurring with Jack's view.
"AND…" Jack emphasized, "You both took that Philosophy in Modern Times class. Neither of you liked that class, or had to have it, but that's where you met."
"Okay, maybe there's something to the fate thing, but how do you know when it's fate and the meant to be thing?"
"What do you mean?" Jack asked.
"I mean, you've dated a few women; what about the woman who you stopped and changed her tire out on Western Blvd. Couldn't that that been fate?"
"It might have been, but she was wearing a wedding ring, so her fate was with someone else."
"Oh, but you were interested…" Lee teased.
"No, I was interested in getting her tire changed and not leaving her in such a dangerous spot," Jack was quick to respond. "My 'fate' is out there somewhere. Who knows, I may have already met her and just don't realize it yet."
"Yeah, but if you've already met her, you won't know since your moving away."
"Lee, don't you get the idea of fate?"
"Apparently not…"
"Well, it means that you aren't expected to cross paths, but then, when you do, and it keeps happening, that's fate."
"Or it's a stalker," Lee laughed.
"Well, I guess it could look like that too, but I'm no stalker, and I still believe that my true north is out there somewhere, and I just need to be patient."
"Okay, I thought this camping trip was to have fun; you're making me have to think too much."
"Think about what?"
"Jack, first you start on the fate kick, and then true north…what's that supposed to mean?"
"You've never heard that before?"
"Nope…"
"Well, your true north is your orienting point, your fixed point in a spinning world. It helps you stay on track as a leader." Seeing Lee's confusion, Jack continued, "Your true north is derived from your most deeply held beliefs, values, and the principles that you lead by. It's your internal compass so to speak."
"Well, talking compasses and all, I guess that's why you were the #1 fighter pilot in the Navy," Lee remarked.
"Funny, but it has nothing to do with the military. I'll meet her, and when I do will you and Rosie leave me alone?"
"Well, I will, but Rosie is a different story. She just wants you to be happy, Jack," Lee mentioned. "For that matter, so do I…"
"Alright, now this talk is getting gross. When I find her and we go out on our first date, you will be the first to know, okay?"
"Okay…deal!" Lee promised as he added up the Rummy score and realized how miserably he'd lost.
Jack and Bella took a hike the following morning while Lee stayed back to fix breakfast, his penance for having lost in cards the night before.
"Did you enjoy your walk?" Lee asked when Jack and Bella, with her leash unattached, returned to the cabin.
"WOW look at this…" Jack stated as he showed Lee a picture of a log in the lake holding nearly twenty turtles as they sunbathed. "I have never seen that many turtles in one place.
Jack continued scrolling through the pictures on his phone, "Look…can you see the deer? She almost blended in with the scenery."
"This place is fantastic," Jack stated as he glanced around at the woods and the water. "I'm going to miss this."
As the weekend came to an end, Jack felt refreshed, and prepared to start his new life in Charlotte with a new job, a new home, a new dog, and a fresh outlook on life.
WRAL- Raleigh…
Several days later, Elizabeth was contacted and advised to appear in the General Manager's office at 3pm. With talk still running rampant that changes were coming, she logically assumed that "this talk," or "POW-WOW" as they called it would be to sever ties.
Elizabeth was extremely thankful when earlier in the day she received a call from the WBTV General Manager and was offered a position as co-host of "The Morning Brew," the highest rated morning show in Charlotte, North Carolina. Accepting the position, she entered the afternoon meeting with a spring in her step knowing that although she was being pushed out of the WRAL family, she was being welcomed elsewhere.
Although the new position would require that she move away from Raleigh, she viewed it as a promotion in both money and position. She walked into the General Manager's office, prepared to resign before she was fired.
That was until he began spouting her wonderful qualities and expressed that she was a great asset to the station. Speechless, her mind was spinning when he offered her an evening co-anchor position and if she wasn't concerned for her future security at WRAL, she may have decided to stay.
Within a month, Elizabeth was packed up and ready to make a new life for herself. Moving to Charlotte was different, but not devastating. Sure she left her friends and the apartment that she loved, but life was truly about change, and she was looking forward, not back. Besides, at only a few hours away, she had the ability to visit her family and friends when the new position allowed, which wasn't looking to be very frequently.
On her first day at WBTV, a CBS affiliate, Elizabeth, having built a viewership using her on-screen name, made her initial appearance with her co-host, Ryan Twohy. Although they had officially met several days earlier, and this on-screen introduction was only for the viewers, Elizabeth found Ryan to be quite handsome, but initially somewhat hesitant to accept her, assuming that he wasn't "all-in" on the co-host idea.
The Morning Brew- WBTV- Charlotte, NC
"Good morning, and thank you for welcoming us into your homes," Ryan began. "I am very honored and pleased to introduce you to my new co-host, Elizabeth Standish," he turned to Elizabeth, "Welcome to The Morning Brew, and apparently to Charlotte, as well."
"Thank you, Ryan," she stated before turning to camera #2, "I am very honored to be here, and I look forward to learning about the viewers and the City of Charlotte, so I encourage you to email me at estandish and tell me your favorite places to visit.
"Well, we have a treat for the viewers, and we don't mean to put you on the hot seat, Elizabeth, but it's a chance for us to get to know you," Ryan stated as he began to ask her questions in rapid fire succession.
"What's your full name?"
"Elizabeth Grace…Standish," she'd used that name for over a year, but somehow, she felt that she was lying to her new viewership.
"What's your birth date?"
"September 5th…"
"What's your age?"
"Are you allowed to even ask that?"
"So you don't want to answer that one?"
"No, I didn't say that…does that count as one of your questions?"
"No…"
"Okay, I'm 28."
"Where did you go to school?"
"UNC-Chapel Hill for undergrad and graduate school…"
"What degree did you receive?"
"I have a BA and a Masters in Communications."
"What's your favorite food?"
"Pizza…"
"What kind…?"
"Supreme with extra green peppers…oh and no onions…"
"Oh, in case you're on a date…?"
"Huh…"
"You know, onions and bad breath; not conducive to kissing…"
"Oh, right…"
"Favorite color?"
"Green…"
"Favorite season…?"
"All of them, oh wait, not winter…"
"Favorite holiday…?"
"Christmas…"
"So, you don't like winter, but Christmas is your favorite holiday?"
"Well, I love the true meaning of Christmas and how people really seem to come together during that time of the year."
"Pets…?"
"None, but once I'm settled here I'd like to get a dog…"
"What kind…?"
"Oh, I don't know. I almost adopted a Labrador before I moved here, so maybe I'll look at another one."
"Did you change your mind…?"
"About what…?"
"Adopting the dog…?"
"Well, no…a service man had his heart set on the same dog. I couldn't fight him for her…"
"WOW, that's quite unselfish of you…"
"I don't know about that, but I'd like to think it was the right decision. So, Bella, if you are out there and can hear this, I miss you and I hope you are enjoying your new life…"
Jack's House…
Walking into the den of Jack's 4-bedroom, 5 bath, 6,000 square foot home in Davidson, NC, a suburb of Charlotte, Lee Coulter was waiting for Jack to return from the garage where he was gathering his fishing equipment.
Bella entered the house ahead of Jack as he struggled with several rods and two large tackle boxes.
"Hey, you need to get in here and see this girl, she's beautiful," Lee commented.
"Lee, I'm going to tell you once more, I'm not interested, and I'm not looking," Jack was adamant as he leaned the rods up against the entryway wall. "I travel and that's not conducive to a relationship right now, especially a new one…"
"Maybe so, but Jack, this house is huge. You had to have bought this with a wife and family in mind."
"Actually, I bought it as an investment only. I mean, does it look like I'm making it into a home? It may be sparsely decorated, but I do have the important things, a pool and a pool table."
"Sparsely decorated is right," Rosie is itching to put her touch on this place," Lee stated.
"Well, it won't be here, but once I settle down, I'll hire her company to decorate for me," Jack promised.
"Hmm, so are you thinking about the future, you know a wife and kids…?"
"You guys won't let me think of anything else," Jack blurted out. "I've told myself that right now I want to travel, and I don't mean to places like Pakistan and Afghanistan. My job with Thatcher Industries will allow that to happen," Jack explained for what he considered to be the millionth time.
"Jack, life's not all about work, though. Anyway, look at the TV, the new co-host is beautiful…"
Jack continued professing the benefits of his new job, "Thatcher Industries has state of the art jets flying now, and I feel fortunate to be a pilot for one of them. Do you want some coffee?" Jack offered, hoping that the switch in topics would stop the pressure he regularly felt from Lee.
"Sure, I'd love a cup," Lee mentioned as his eyes remained on the TV.
Jack poured two cups of coffee and as curiosity took control, he nonchalantly glanced at the TV. Although he watched her lips moving, Jack heard nothing, choosing to focus in on her beautiful crystal blue eyes.
"Oh wait; I've seen those eyes before…I mean, I know her…"
"You're holding out on me, Jack."
"No, I don't mean that I know her, know her. I met her before I moved. Actually, we were at Animal Control adopting dogs on the same day," Jack explained.
"Hmm, play date," Lee suggested. "What kind of dog was she getting?"
"You know, I forgot to ask."
It was evident as Jack attempted to casually view the TV that he was interested, but he believed, as she did with him that she was married with children.
"Jack, look at her, she's perfect for you…"
Jack laughed, "I'm sure she married, or otherwise involved. Besides, how on earth do you know we'd be perfect together?"
"Well, you both love dogs…"
"Well, Rosie and I like white wine; so, if we're using your logic, how did it happen that she's married to you?"
"Jack, I just want you to find someone."
"I don't need someone; I have Bella."
"Well maybe so, but I personally think that snuggling with Elizabeth Standish would be so much more satisfying," Lee stated as his eyes remained on the TV.
"Since she's local, you ask her out," Jack suggested to Lee before both started laughing.
"You know that's not even funny. I've got the love of my life; Rosie is truly my one and only, or as you called it once, my true north," Lee stated as he took a seat hoping that Jack would join him.
When he didn't, Lee continued, "You know, it's okay that you're still angry with Taylor."
"I'm not angry with her; not anymore. Being tied down in a relationship with someone who was always deployed wasn't what she wanted," Jack ran his hand harshly through his hair. "She wanted something else. I actually admire her for moving on."
"Well moving on, she did," Lee mentioned. "Married and a baby on the way; I think enough time has gone by for you to move on too, don't you?"
"Look Lee, I knew that being a Navy Pilot was a difficult job, but it's also hard on those we leave behind. Anytime there's a mission, the women worry that we're involved, and we aren't at liberty to talk to them about it," Jack explained.
Jack took a sip from his coffee cup, "I think the last straw was when Hank crashed, and Taylor was there with Janelle as the Chaplain gave her the news. It was too much for her, and I can't blame her for wanting out. Besides, if we were really meant to be together, we'd be together right now."
"But Jack, you aren't in the Navy anymore," Lee reminded him as if he'd forgotten. "You can have a regular life. Sure, you travel, but you aren't gone for months at a time."
Lee continued, "Whether it's with someone like this news anchor or someone else, just don't shut yourself off."
"My mind is open; I'm just not looking," Jack took a seat as they watched the remainder of the Q & A segment.
Back to the Morning Brew…
"Coffee or tea…?"
"Definitely coffee in the morning, but tea in the afternoon…"
"Going to the beach, or hanging at the pool…?"
"I love to walk on the beach; but I rarely go in the water. Truthfully, I'm scared of sharks."
Jack's Den…"
Jack laughed, "Her husband should protect her."
"Is she married?" Lee asked.
"I don't know, but look at her, she is beautiful…she's got to be attached," Jack remarked.
"I knew you were interested."
"I didn't say I was interested. I just assume that she attached."
Morning Brew…
"Favorite vacation…?"
"Anywhere as long as I'm with those I love…"
"Where is someplace you would like to go…?"
"Fiji…"
Jack's Den…
"Hmm, wouldn't we all like to go to Fiji?" Jack commented, now wondering if she was a high maintenance type of woman. Having heard enough, he pulled Lee up from his seat and dragged him out the door as Ryan continued with the rapid-fire Q & A session.
Morning Brew…
"House or apartment…?"
"I've been in both and I think each one has their pros and cons. I want a yard when I have a dog, but not having to cut grass is a good selling point for an apartment…."
"Steak or salad…"
"Uh, both…"
"Favorite ice cream flavor…"
"Strawberry or other fresh fruit in homemade ice cream. Oh Ryan, you're making me hungry here…"
"Okay, we'll change it up a bit. Boyfriend or husband…?"
"Uh…what…"
"Do you have a boyfriend, or are you married…?"
"Uh…"
"Okay, I'll take that as a no on each…"
Ryan continued, "Well, I think I speak for everyone watching when I say thank you; I believe we have gotten to know you just a bit better. Again, I'd like to say welcome, and I look forward to working side by side with you."
"Thank you Ryan; I'm excited to be here, and I look forward to working with everyone at WBTV."
Ryan continued with the morning telecast, "And now we bring you the Charlotte happenings…your past 24 hours in 30 seconds…"
Elizabeth settled into her position with WBTV and feeling the need to be a part of the community, she purchased a quaint three-bedroom, three bath house at 2417 Annibel Lee Drive, in the heart of Charlotte.
On a rare occasion where Elizabeth's show was on a short hiatus and she had time to sit at her computer and go through the many emails that had been sent from her viewers; she received a text from her mother.
"I don't want to bother you, but the pilot your dad hired who's in Charlotte is flying up here to Raleigh for the day. Can you fly up and visit? Please say you can, we haven't seen you in, oh I don't know but it seems like forever."
Elizabeth laughed before texting back… "Mom, when u text u abbre8. U might as well call or send email…"
"Huh…are you coming up to see us? We miss you so much."
Realizing that her mother was not likely to grasp the meaning behind texting, she responded, "I can't. Checking out places my viewers rec… maybe next x."
Elizabeth moved on to the numerous emails she'd received suggesting places to visit. She made a list of several places which received multiple recommendations each from her growing number of viewers. The places consisted of Carowinds, an amusement park which brings the two Carolinas together, basically sitting on the line between North and South Carolina, the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens, and Freedom Park.
During her hiatus, she started out at the amusement park, sad to have had to experience it alone, but each day she took in another activity, planning to discuss her experiences on-air once the show returned next week.
This morning, Mrs. Thatcher rode with her husband to the airport to pick up the General Manager of the Charlotte corporate office, and immediately headed to the main business location in Raleigh.
Captain Thornton remained on the plane awaiting further instructions, as he played video games on his phone and looked for places to take Bella once he was back in town and had some free time. As he observed the Thatcher's vehicle pull out onto the tarmac, he was standing at the bottom of the airstairs when their vehicle stopped.
While Mr. Thatcher continued his conversation with the General Manager, Mrs. Thatcher took this opportunity to gather more information about this young man who stood before her looking quite handsome in his pilot's uniform.
"So, Captain Thornton, how do you like working for Thatcher Industries?"
"I'm very happy ma'am."
"How about your family; did they mind moving to Charlotte?"
"Actually, I have friends in Charlotte, so it's nice being back closer to them. My only family nearby is my dog."
"Did you bring her with you?" she asked as she looked up the stairs into the jet.
"No ma'am; she home."
"Well, if you want, you're welcome to let her fly with you. We're a dog loving family and company," Mrs. Thatcher advised.
"Thank you, ma'am, I'll keep that in mind."
"So, you aren't dating anyone?"
"Excuse me…"
"Grace, leave the Captain alone," Mr. Thatcher stated as the General Manager climbed the stairs and settled in the jet.
"Is there anything else, Mr. Thatcher?" Jack asked.
"No, I think we're set for a few days anyway," he advised as Jack climbed the stairs, closed the clamshell style door and headed for the controls.
On the last day of her hiatus, Elizabeth made her way to Freedom Park. Walking along the lake she was practically tripped by a black Labrador who bounced at her feet. "Bella is that you?" she looked the dog in the face and observed her soft, emotion filled eyes. "No, it couldn't be you."
"Bella, come here," Jack called out as he chased after her. "I'm so sorry, did she hurt you?" he asked as he approached.
As their eyes met, "It's you," both remarked as Bella continued to wag her tail and look between them.
"Hi Bella…" Elizabeth bent down, glancing away as she wiped a few tears that fell.
"How did you know her name?" Jack asked.
"You called out to her as you approached, but actually, told me when we were standing outside waiting on the door to Animal Control to open," she reminded him.
"What did you end up adopting?"
"I didn't find anything, so I'm still dog-less."
"Oh, I'm sorry, I'm Jack Thornton," he stuck out his arm to shake her hand. As their hands touched, each one felt a jolt of electricity course through their veins.
Still assuming that he was married with children, she pulled her hand away. "It's nice to meet you again Jack. I'm Elizabeth…"
"Standish… I'm sorry, I've seen you on The Morning Brew."
"So, do you live in Charlotte? I mean, you adopted Bella in Raleigh…"
"Yes, a new job brought me here, and I guess the same for you?" he asked.
"Yes, a new job for me too…a lot of new beginnings, I guess."
"What do you do…?" she asked.
"I'm a pilot for…"
Receiving a text from Ryan, Elizabeth glanced down…
"Can u come to station. GM wants to discuss story ideas…"
"B there shortly…"
"Well, it was nice seeing you and Bella again, but I have to go back to the station. Take care," she mentioned as she started for the parking lot. She didn't know him well; in fact, she really didn't know him at all, but for some reason she couldn't help but to think how lucky his wife and children were.
WBTV- Charlotte…
She spent practically every morning working with Ryan, and many weekends they met to discuss story possibilities. So, when both Ryan and Elizabeth were scheduled to attend the most elaborate of Charlotte's Christmas functions, "Cocktails and Candy Canes," it didn't seem odd for them to attend together.
"I'll just meet you there," she stated.
"No, we should arrive together, besides, the station is sending a limo; we should enjoy it," Ryan advised.
On the evening of "Cocktails and Candy Canes," Ryan was already in the limo, wearing his grey three-piece suit, when they stopped at Elizabeth's house to pick her up. Ryan was all smiles when she stepped outside wearing a midnight blue, hi-lo off the shoulder formal with lace covering the bodice and both sleeves which fell just shy of her wrists.
Ryan and Elizabeth spent most of the evening together, dancing and socializing. As she covered the room, Elizabeth was surprised when she observed Jack, wearing a tuxedo, with a beautiful brunette on his arm that she assumed was his wife.
"Hi Jack…"
"Hi Elizabeth, you look beautiful tonight," Jack mentioned.
"Thank you," she responded.
"Are you two married?" Jack asked.
"No yet…" Ryan teased.
Wearing a burgundy formal with lace along the neckline, and down both long sleeves, with an open back, Elizabeth found Jack's 'wife' to be gorgeous, and together they made a beautiful couple, a comment she expressed as both 'couples' stood at the punch bowl.
Ryan and Elizabeth's time together culminated at the end of the evening with a kiss while standing under the mistletoe. It was much more passionate on Ryan's end than a mistletoe kiss usually is, so it took Elizabeth by surprise.
That one evening, added to the times that viewers saw them together working, caused the ratings to soar, and the talk of a budding romance began.
The following morning, Rosie opened the Charlotte Observer, the local newspaper. Reading about the Cocktails and Candy Canes formal, she was on the phone calling Jack, waking him, and expecting him to speak coherently, even though it was only 8am.
"Jack, I saw the pictures; did you have fun with Leah," Rosie asked as her enthusiasm was palpable.
"What…huh…?"
"Your date with Leah; did you have a nice time?"
"Yes, it was nice…"
"When are you going out again?"
"Rosie, did you know that she's not fond of dogs?"
"No, I didn't know that, but that's a simple thing, isn't it?"
"Not to Bella, it isn't. Look, it was a nice night out; I saw some interesting people, but I'm not into glitz and glamour. I enjoy, fishing and hiking."
"Leah likes hiking, too."
"But she doesn't like my dog. I'm sorry, but that's a deal breaker…"
Jack's Den- 6 months later…
"Jack, how is the job going?" Rosie asked as she, Jack and Lee sat out on his deck enjoying the spring weather.
"What's not to love. Thatcher Industries has the best jets in the air, and thankfully, unlike war, I'm not flying around looking to blow some guy out of the sky."
"Have you met anyone?" Rosie asked.
"I've met lots of people…" Jack replied.
"You know what I mean, Jack. Have you met any women?"
"Some of them have been women."
"Jack, stop being so hard to get along with," Rosie griped. "Have you met any women you're interested in? You know, someone who likes your dog too?"
Before Jack could answer, Rosie turned to Lee, "Let's just set him up. He looks pitiful all alone."
"What is with you two; don't you think I can enjoy my life without a woman?"
Rosie glanced in Lee's direction before she burst out laughing. Her laughter caused Jack to laugh as well, "Okay, maybe I don't believe that myself, but I'm looking for someone special to be with, not just someone. Can you understand that?"
Rosie put her glass of wine down, "Jack, I'm not saying that you'll think of yourself marrying every woman you go out with, but someone you go out with may introduce you to the woman of your dreams."
"That just sounds wrong Rosie…Hey, I don't want to go out with you, but can you introduce me to your friend over there?" Jack laughed at the absurdity of it.
"Well, I could set you up with a woman from my…"
"Wait, do you seriously think that I can't find a girlfriend on my own?" Jack asked…."
Rosie glanced at Lee before returning her eyes to Jack, "Look, you haven't been out on a date since that Christmas formal. Before that, you had a long dry spell after you and Taylor broke up. Oh, did you hear that she had a little boy."
"No, I didn't, but thanks for sharing," Jack remarked as he took another sip from his beer.
"I'm sorry Jack, does that bother you?" she asked.
"No, I'm happy for her. She found the person she was supposed to be with…"
"Well Jack, she really wasn't right for you, but like I said, sometimes you meet your soulmate through someone else," Rosie pushed her point.
"So, I guess what you're saying is that Taylor wasn't right for me, but in meeting me, I was able to introduce her to Aaron, and he was her soulmate."
"Exactly, so you may meet someone through someone else."
"I know what you mean, but really, I'm busy with work and there really isn't anyone I'm interested in, so can we just drop the subject?"
"I told you that news anchor would be perfect for you…" Lee reminded him.
"You're starting on me now? I thought guys had to stick together…"
Before Lee could respond, Rosie asked, "What news anchor?"
"Elizabeth Standish…" Lee replied.
"Oh, she is beautiful, but apparently taken," Rosie advised.
"I told you that she was involved with someone, either dating or married," Jack stated as he picked up his bottle of beer from the table and took a sip.
"Well actually she wasn't involved when she came here, but I guess she's dating her co-host now," Rosie stated.
"You waited too long Jack. You should have contacted her at the station…" Lee remarked.
"And said what? You have beautiful eyes; I have a dog; will you have dinner with me? Oh, and I'm a freak…"
"You aren't a freak, Jack, but you do need to open yourself up to someone," Rosie stated as she turned to Lee, "What about Alexis?"
"Who is Alexis?" Jack asked.
"She goes to our church, and she's a flight attendant, so you have flying in common," Rosie mentioned.
"No thank you. When I'm supposed to meet someone, we'll meet."
"Well, I'm not sure that you'll meet anyone on that jet, and you never go any place," Rosie kept pushing.
"It's my job, Rosie. I'm on call for the company all the time. But I've been able to travel, so that's a plus."
"Jack, you travel alone…"
"No, I don't, Mrs. Thatcher talked her husband into letting me bring Bella with me on trips," he advised. "We've been to LA and hiked in Runyon Canyon, been to the Grand Canyon, oh, we also went to Four Corners…"
"Great, you went with your dog," Rosie frustratingly remarked. "What's Four Corners, anyway?"
"It's a place out in the desert where the States of Utah, New Mexico, Colorado and Arizona meet," Jack explained. "You stand in the middle of this symbol on the ground and you are technically in four states at once."
"Wouldn't you rather have a woman with you; you know someone to share all of these special trips with?" Rosie continued with her rant, "I mean, I love Bella, but Jack, you aren't getting any younger, and your going to miss an opportunity to meet someone very special. I'm just worried about you."
"Rosie, these trips are for work. I'm busy, and I'm enjoying my life. If you guys don't get off this fixing me up kick, I'm going to stop getting together with you."
"Back off, Rosie…" Lee stated sternly, as he felt Jack's irritation.
As time went on, Jack casually dated, generally no more that five dates with the same woman, and mainly to keep Rosie off his back. For quiet time, he headed for the park, usually sitting on a bench watching Bella play with old and new friends and wishing that the beautiful news anchor would appear.
For the next year, Ryan and Elizabeth worked together and dated each other, somehow finding a compromise between what had to be for their employers and what they wanted as individuals.
Elizabeth had never been in love before; she'd dated and had relationships previously, but being so focused on her career kept her from getting too close. That's where things were different between her and Ryan. The station encouraged the relationship, even releasing a previously enforced "no dating" policy, seeing their pairing as a powerhouse for "The Morning Brew."
Elizabeth should have known something was odd when at the following years' "Cocktails and Candy Canes" function, the camera crew was ripe and ready when Ryan dropped to one knee and proposed to her.
Assuming that she loved him, she accepted, and the station talked Elizabeth into an elaborate "Plan my wedding" contest for the viewers.
Whatever the viewers picked (dress, location, flowers, tuxedos, music and food), the station would foot the bill. Mrs. Thatcher drew the line when models of her age began presenting dresses for her and Ryan's mother to wear.
"I may not be able to help with the planning, but I will pick the dress I wear to my daughter's wedding," Mrs. Thatcher stated firmly.
Although Mrs. Thatcher liked Ryan and was happy for her daughter's newfound "love," she still wondered what would have happened if Elizabeth had met the newest pilot for the company. Prior to the engagement, she attempted on several occasions to 'set them up,' having plans for Jack to fly Elizabeth up to Raleigh for special occasions. Unaware of her mother's intent, and the fact that they were only a few hours away, Elizabeth always drove, making the need for a pilot unnecessary.
Mrs. Thatcher wasn't thinking that Jack was a better fit for Elizabeth than Ryan was, but something about Elizabeth's fiancé, had her wondering if love or ratings was his driving force.
While planning the wedding, which took seven and a half months, and seemed to take on a life of its own, Ryan began talking about the need to advance their careers by moving to a larger network.
Elizabeth explained that she was happy in Charlotte; she had made new friends, purchased a home, and felt a part of the WBTV family. Therefore, as often as he mentioned moving, she just as quickly shot it down.
Although the dress was not what she would have selected, she did agree to accept any and all of the viewer's selections, knowing that the wedding was set to be the biggest event in the morning show's four year history.
Everything for the ceremony was moving along until…
Two Days Prior…
"Hey, what are you doing here?" Elizabeth asked as she came home from getting her nails done and found Ryan standing at the window looking out into her backyard.
"I've accepted a new job." Ryan advised as Elizabeth laid her purse and keys on the entryway table.
"Really…you're leaving the show?" she asked still assuming that his decision did not impact their wedding, which at this point was only two days away. Stepping forward, she was taken aback when he moved away from her, holding up his hands to stop her from approaching.
"We need to talk."
"Is something wrong?"
"No…yes…"
"What's that supposed to mean?" she asked.
Observing a bag sitting on the floor beside him she asked, "Where did that bag come from?"
He didn't answer her question, but simply moved on to the script he had running on the teleprompter in his mind, "Elizabeth, I love you, but to be honest, I'm not in love with you."
Her smile, that had already begun to fall, dropped completely upon those words. "Ryan, I don't understand."
"It's quite simple if you think about it. I care about you, but do I want to stay here and get married…no, no I don't."
"You don't want to get married, or you don't want to marry me?" she tearfully asked.
"Does it really matter? The fact is I'm taking a co-host position in New York, and I'm going alone."
"What about the wedding?" she asked.
"I don't know what to tell you, I hope that someday you'll understand."
"Understand…? What am I supposed to understand? I thought you were happy here with your job…with me…"
"Elizabeth, I'm sorry…"
"That's all you have to say…I'm sorry?" she stated.
Apparently it was as he simply grabbed his bag and left.
Elizabeth stood in the middle of the room; it was her house, the home she'd had for several years, but at that moment she was more lost than she believed she had ever been.
Outside in the driveway, Ryan sat in his Silver Dodge Ram pickup truck as his own tears fell. Truth was, he loved her, and desperately wanted to marry her, but career wise, he knew that she wouldn't want to leave, and through a great deal of soul searching, he didn't want to stay.
Ryan was fairly certain that he would regret this decision; as a matter of fact he already did, but as much as he was happy with Elizabeth, he was equally unhappy in his job and knew that feeling would eventually bleed over into their relationship.
As he backed out of his driveway, he pressed the accelerator and disappeared out of her Charlotte neighborhood and apparently out of her life.
The reason for the overnight bag which he carried when he left quickly became abundantly clear.
Sitting in her home, she glanced around realizing that she didn't want anything there that belonged to him, or that he'd given her, or had at one time touched. With the exception of her bedroom, he'd been everywhere else. Therefore, to satisfy her desire to remove "Him" completely from her life, she would need to move and trash most all of her belongings, and she was certainly smart enough to know that was not feasible. However, it didn't keep her was wanting to do it just the same.
Moving on, she decided that she could at least remove any items that personally belonged to him, or those things he'd given her. Striking while the iron is hot so to speak, Elizabeth grabbed a box, perfect for shipping to New York, and she opened her front entryway closet door.
She stood just outside the large expansive closet prepared to toss any and all items that had at one time belonged to him, or he had given her, that once seemed so precious.
The box remained empty as it appeared that he had, in fact, removed all of his belongings. Walking from room to room, she collected pictures, clothing, jewelry and trinkets that Ryan had given her. Instead of using paper to wrap the breakable items, she simply stuck them inside clothes. "Be careful opening up this stuff…sorry, not sorry!"
She walked to her bedroom, shut off the light, and fell onto the bed. As she lay quietly, overwhelming feelings of confusion mingled with her burgeoning anger, and she stared at the ceiling. Even in the darkness she saw his face; his brown eyes and medium brown hair, and her tears continued.
Unable to sleep, Elizabeth pulled her journal from the drawer beside her bed. The more she thought about Ryan leaving her alone to clean up this mess, the more her anger and embarrassment grew.
She opened her journal and glanced through prior entries, those which covered the past three years of her life; her fear of leaving Raleigh to start a new job, the new job in Charlotte, meeting Bella, meeting Jack, meeting Ryan, his proposal, the excitement of their upcoming wedding and their future together.
Her fingers began to pull each page which mentioned his name, or simply a description of a situation which brought him to mind, from the spine of her journal, tearing the paper just as he had torn apart her life. Stopping without removing the pages, she slammed the journal closed and returned it to the drawer.
Before sunrise, as her feelings of disappointment, sadness, anxiety, embarrassment, and even rage flourished, she only managed to move from her bed, and down the hall before she collapsed on the sofa, her tears continuing to fall unrestricted.
As the sun broke through the barrier of clouds, Elizabeth completed her list of everyone, guests and vendors who needed to be notified. Thankfully, Ryan had already spoken to the station's General Manager, but only because he was leaving to take a new position in New York. He certainly didn't hang around to shoulder any of the responsibility for cancelling the plans that remained.
Glancing around the room, items he'd given to her remained, while those things belonging to him that he'd brought into her home and left were gone. She assumed that was why he had the bag, and that he must have been there for a while packing up his belongings. Also missing and she assumed had been loaded in the back of his pickup before she returned home were his golf clubs. The thought then settled in her mind that had she not found him in her house would he have simply sent her a text to say goodbye?
One Day Prior…
Her first phone call was to her parents. Both were outwardly understanding but inwardly angry at the man who seemed to love their daughter, but dropped her quickly for a new, more prestigious job.
"What are you going to do?" her mother asked as her father listened on the extension.
"What do you mean? I'm going on with my life; just as he is apparently going on with his," she remarked.
"I'm proud of you sweetheart. I know it doesn't feel like it now, but you're lucky that this side of him came out before you said 'I do…'" her mother commented.
"I know you're right; it's just that I have people to contact and arrangements to cancel, and since all of this played out on the show," she released a frustrated breath, "It's all so embarrassing," Elizabeth admitted.
Mrs. Thatcher's anger at Ryan was tempered by the possibility that she could now introduce Elizabeth to the handsome pilot, who in the time he'd been employed by the company, she had been able to learn what a kind, and considerate single man he was.
"How can we help?" her father asked.
"You can make all of these phone calls…" she was teasing.
"Give us the list…" her mother offered.
"I was just kidding, mom…"
"Maybe so, but I'm not," her mother replied as she grabbed a pen and paper.
Elizabeth took a screen shot of the wedding guests list and sent it to her mother with a note thanking her for her help. She then sat down to contact the vendors advising of the cancellation of the wedding, and her apologies for all of their hard work.
Since the food had already been paid for, Elizabeth suggested that it be given to the local homeless and woman's shelters, as there was no sense in it going to waste.
Wedding Day…
Elizabeth escaped the torrential downpour and was technically hiding in plain sight when she ran inside Calgary Baptist Church. She stood in the center of the vestibule, and although there would be no wedding today, she assumed that no one would expect her to be there, and she was hoping for some quiet time. Somehow she felt the need to be there, in the church, where spiritually she could hopefully find some peace.
She clenched her eyes shut as the silence inside was broken by the thunderous claps in the distance, and her tears rivaled the drops falling from the sky. She walked inside the sanctuary and it was as if she'd been hit in the face all over again…
She walked down the aisle of the chapel…alone, she felt lost. Her fingers brushed across the silky ribbons contorted into elaborate bows and sitting stately on the front and back end of each pew with green garland connecting them, and she was angry. It was evident that the florist wasn't notified in time as the chapel was decorated with beautiful arrangements.
The longer she sat in the chapel the more hurt and angry she became.
"Are you okay Elizabeth?" Reverend Jackson asked as he entered the chapel and stepped towards her.
"I'm so sorry for all of this…I…"
"Elizabeth, you have nothing to be sorry for," he assured her. "As situations go, I'm glad that it ended before you went through with the ceremony. You'll survive this; I'm sure that you feel as though you won't, but I guarantee you will, and not only that, but there is someone else out there who is perfect for you."
"I'm done…" she whispered as she wiped her eyes.
"Elizabeth," he stated as he took a seat in the pew in front of her and then turned in his seat to face her. Seeing the lost look in her eyes he continued, "It's okay to be sad; in fact, if you weren't, it would be a bit concerning. Your heart is broken; a relationship that you put everything into has ended, and you're bound to feel lost."
Elizabeth glanced around at the decorations that she was unable to cancel before looking back at the minister, "Shouldn't I have known?"
"You know, sometimes neither party knows. But if you get this close and you're excited and not scared then you are entering in with your eyes wide open and you know what you want."
"I just feel as though I've let so many people down…"
"Elizabeth, do you think it would be better to be in a relationship where both parties are miserable? Because I can tell you if one person isn't happy, in the long run, neither will be," he counseled. "I know you're upset, but not dealing with the loss, is much like placing a band-aid on a gaping wound. Of course it's covered, but unless you properly care for the wound, it won't heal."
Elizabeth glanced down at her hands folded in her lap. "Elizabeth," he called out causing her to look up.
"I encourage you to take some time, allow yourself to grieve, and give yourself the opportunity to heal," he encouraged her.
Elizabeth's phone rang. Seeing that it was her father but unable to answer since she was in church, she quickly shut off the ringer, "I'm sorry."
"That's okay; you go ahead. If you need anything, you call me; oh, and the flowers will go to good use this weekend," he stated.
"I'm glad that someone will enjoy them," Elizabeth replied as she walked out of the church, thankful for the quickly clearing skies.
Once in her car she dialed her father's number…
"Hi Daddy…" Elizabeth stated as he answered his cell phone.
"How are you sweetheart?"
"I've been better…"
"I have a suggestion…"
"Well, unless it has to do with me disappearing for a while I don't want to hear it."
"As a matter of fact, it does."
"It does what?"
"It allows you to disappear for awhile."
"What are you talking about?"
"Your honeymoon…"
"Ryan planned that, and I guess he should go."
"Elizabeth, he sent me an email with all of the reservations; he wants you to go…"
"Go where…?"
"Fiji…look Elizabeth, you have two weeks off from work; your show is on hiatus, and you need to take this time for yourself."
"When does the flight leave?"
"Whenever you want it to…"
"Huh…?"
"Elizabeth, I offered Ryan the use of one of the company jets. You tell me when you want to leave and the jet will be waiting on you."
"Thank you, daddy. Let me think about it…"
"Okay honey…I'm going to forward all the information to you."
Reviewing the information regarding the reservation, a sudden feeling of power came over her. If nothing else, she would never want Ryan to think that he had crushed her. She was after all her own woman, "I am dynamic, intelligent, independent and desirable… well three out of four isn't bad."
That evening Elizabeth called her father, "Can we leave at 7am?"
On facetime, Mr. Thatcher saw a determination in her expression that had been lacking recently, "7am it is. I'll call the pilot and have him in Charlotte by 7…"
"Oh, I'm sorry; I forgot that I'm not in Raleigh anymore. Would it be better for Captain Cole if we made it 9am instead of 7?"
"That will be fine, but if you want to leave earlier, it's only a 30 minute flight, wheels up to wheels down from Raleigh to Charlotte."
"9am will be good. I don't want to start the trip off with Captain Cole angry with me."
"Henry has always loved you; he could never be mad at you," Mr. Thatcher teased. "You know what…?"
"What…?"
"I'm going to let you take Gator," he stated, pleased at the smile that immediately covered her face.
"Thank you, Daddy…"
"Elizabeth…"
"Yes sir…"
"I love you."
"I love you too."
"You take this time to relax," he stated as his voice trailed off. "Elizabeth, your mother wanted to talk to you…"
"Hi Mom…"
"How are you, honey?"
"I'll be okay. Did Daddy tell you that Captain Cole was going to take me on my honeymoon…?" Elizabeth laughed softly. "That's not what I mean. I mean he's flying me to the honeymoon that Ryan had booked for us."
"I know what you meant, honey. I suspect that you're going to have a wonderful time, and you'll forget all about what happened here," her mother promised.
"I'd like to think so, but I won't hold my breath," Elizabeth stated doing her best not to sound too depressed. "I'm just looking to get away, and truly what better place is there to go than Fiji?"
"Have faith; you're going to have a good time."
Mr. Thatcher returned to the phone, "I'll make certain that he stays there with you in case you want to come home early or simply need something."
"I don't need a babysitter…"
"I know you don't, but I want to make sure that someone is watching out for you; it'll make your mother feel better."
"Well, since you're going to keep Captain Cole with me, why don't you see if he wants to bring his wife and kids? It'll be nice to have people around."
"I'll let him know…"
"Thank you, Daddy. I think you're right; I need this."
Elizabeth packed her suitcase full of bathing suits, undergarments, shorts and t-shirts, feeling that since she didn't have a date, dressy clothes were not necessary.
In Raleigh, the following morning, Mrs. Thatcher nonchalantly drove her husband to the airport where he was planning to take the smaller of his two jets to Los Angeles for business with Captain Thornton as the pilot.
They drove out onto the tarmac, and as Mr. Thatcher pulled his bag from the trunk, the pilot walked down the airstair to greet him.
"Henry, what are you doing here? You're supposed to be flying Elizabeth to Fiji," Mr. Thatcher was obviously confused and concerned.
"Mrs. Thatcher called me last night. She said that there was a change in plans."
"Oh, she did…" Mr. Thatcher glanced over at his wife.
Seeing the look of disapproval in his eyes, Mrs. Thatcher waved and put the car in reverse.
"Wait," Mr. Thatcher yelled out.
Hesitantly she stopped and rolled down the window…
"What did you do…?"
"Honey, she needs to be with people her own age…"
"But the pilot…? And on a two week trip to Fiji?" he asked as she simply smiled. "Your smile isn't going to work this time. Grace, she doesn't know him…Hell, we don't even know if he's trustworthy with our daughter."
"William Thatcher, you can't tell me that you didn't vet him out completely before you hired him," she stated sternly.
"I did…for the company, not my daughter."
"I'm not saying they'll get married, but right now she needs to have some fun," Grace replied. "Trust me; I read over his file, and I've had many conversations with him. There is no doubt in my mind that they'll be fast friends…"
"Grace, she doesn't need a male friend."
"William, right now she is so angry with Ryan; she needs to realize that not all men are going to treat her like that. Besides, anything else that may come of this is totally up to them," she stated before blowing him an air kiss, rolling up the window and driving away.
Standing at the bottom of the airstair he watched his wife drive off of the tarmac while his thoughts retreated to the file he had on the new pilot…Captain Jack Thornton.
Elizabeth closed her house and took an Uber to the Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Walking out onto the tarmac, she stopped dead in her tracks. Standing on the airstairs was Jack, a wearing a pair of dark blue trousers, a blue tie, a white short sleeved shirt with Captain epaulets (four bars) across both shoulders.
With sunglasses covering his eyes and holding his black cap with the tale-tell insignia badge and embroidered leaves on the brim under his arm, he stepped down onto the tarmac.
Initially his heart pounded in his chest. It was her, Elizabeth, the woman he'd met several times. He'd seen her on numerous occasions, however, his idea of fate had to be flawed, as she was apparently married to someone else. He felt as though the fate he was banking on was now slapping him in the face.
Confused to be seeing Elizabeth as the original paperwork said that it was a trip to Fiji for a honeymoon, Jack remarked, "Mrs. Twohy…"
Having called her 'Mrs. Twohy,' Elizabeth was already angry, maybe not at him, but he would be the recipient of her wrath. "What are you doing here?" she asked as she looked around for the familiar Captain Cole.
Sensing her anger, he responded, "Uh, I'm sorry, but the paperwork that I received said that you and your husband would be flying to Fiji. Is Mr. Twohy on his way?" finding it odd that they were married but not together.
"No, he won't…I mean, we didn't…never mind; it's none of your business, besides, you didn't answer my question; what are you doing here?"
"I'm Captain Thornton…Jack Thornton, is there a problem?"
"You aren't Captain Cole, that's my problem."
"Well yes, I guess that would be your problem, because I was hired as a pilot by Thatcher Industries. So, do you want to go or not?" Jack asked sensing her snippiness, but feeling a bit of his own snarkiness coming on.
"Captain, will we be leaving soon?" Felicia, the flight attendant asked as she stood in the entrance of the plane. "Oh my, gosh, hi Elizabeth…"
"Hi Felicia. I'm glad to see you."
"I guess when we leave is up to Mrs. Twohy here…" he responded.
"The name is Thatcher, Elizabeth Thatcher…"
"Thatcher…? I thought your name was Elizabeth Standish," Jack mentioned.
"No, that's my on-air name."
"Well, Miss Thatcher, will Mr. Twohy be joining us?"
"No, no he won't…"
"Well, if we're flying to Fiji we need to get started. There is a bit of bad weather that's heading our way," he stated as he reached down and took her rolling cart.
"WOW, that's light…"
"So, I assume that because I am a woman that I pack everything in sight when I travel, right?" she snapped back at him, still not angry with him, but frustrated with men in general.
"Uh, what…no, I was just commenting that it was light," he stated as he climbed the airstairs. "I'm sorry; I was just making small talk."
"Well, Captain, you can just keep your comments to yourself. I'm not interested in hearing what you have to say about my suitcase, or my cancelled wedding…"
"Okay, that answers a lot of questions, and lucky me, I get to spend the next two weeks with MISS Personality…"
Elizabeth took a seat in her father's Gulfstream G550, a fourteen passenger, super-size jet, with various distinct quarters, a bedroom, galley, bathroom and main seating area. When her father purchased the jet, Elizabeth affectionately named it "Gator."
"Can I get you anything," Felicia asked.
"No, how have you been?"
"Pretty good. I'm so sorry to hear about your wedding."
"Thank you, but I guess if he was going to back out, it's best that he did it for the wedding and not the marriage."
"Well, it's still a shame, but hey, you get two weeks in Fiji…"
"That's true. Hey Felicia, can I ask you something?"
"Sure," Felicia replied.
"Do you know him…?" Elizabeth asked, tilting her head in Jack's direction as he seated himself at the controls.
"We've flown together quite a few times; why…?" Felicia inquired.
"I don't know. I've met him a few times and he seemed so much nicer. Now he just seems a bit headstrong for someone who's doing what he's hired to do…"
"He's really a nice guy; you might want to give him a chance."
"Give him a chance at what?" Elizabeth raised her eyebrows. "Right now, men are not a high priority with me, and that's even if you can find one you trust…" Elizabeth turned away and glanced out the window.
Suddenly she felt something nudge her legs. Turning back and looking down, "Bella, oh I'm so happy to see you."
Bella jumped up on the sofa and snuggled into Elizabeth's body. She continued to rub her soft, smooth coat before Jack walked down the aisle, and admonished his dog for being on the furniture.
"For your information, I invited her up here," she hadn't but it was quite soothing to feel Bella against her body.
Although few words were spoken, Felicia felt as though the tension could have been cut with a knife. Hoping to ease the strain between Jack and Elizabeth, Felicia added, "I believe we'll be leaving soon, so please buckle up," Felicia requested as Jack returned to the cockpit and Elizabeth secured her seatbelt. Right now, she didn't want anyone telling her what to do, but since she was always nervous flying, remaining secure in her seat was considered a top priority.
Unable to process her feelings, thoughts and emotions previously, she pulled her journal from her bag, flipped it to the next blank page and began to write from the heart.
"Personal euphoria cannot be dependent upon the actions of others. Although our lives are often enhanced by the presence of those special to us, placing the responsibility of our own happiness and worth in their hands can only be viewed as foolish. Even those who express their undying love, often change face leaving us high, dry and so very lost. Is it their fault? Right now I'd love to think so, but in truth I should have seen this day coming.
Although I thought we were happy together, the completion of a couple cannot fall on the shoulders of one person. Individually, we must seek in life that which brings us the most joy. We must cultivate it and enjoy it while it lasts, but never allow it to define us. We are who we are individually, with friends, family, co-workers and our significant others, but we also must be able to not only exist, but thrive alone when situations change. For we are much stronger than what is visually seen; we become stronger through our fears, failures, our trials and our triumphs.
We need to find joy in the simple pleasures which allow us to open our hearts completely, expecting nothing, experiencing everything, and simply being thankful for each and every opportunity that is presented. We are tasked with finding within ourselves that feeling of inner peace, that 'happy to be me' satisfaction that we feel when we observe our reflection in the mirror. Then and only then will the joy we feel within ourselves reflect the true gratification for the life we have been given."
Elizabeth returned her journal to her bag and watched out the window as they seemed to float through the clouds. With Bella having left her, Elizabeth felt a bit lonely in the oversized jet. She walked to the front and stood just outside the partially open cockpit door.
Listening intently, she received an earful…
"This isn't what I came here for; nothing like having to fly daddy's spoiled brat daughter out of the country and hold her hand because her fiancé left her lost when he hightailed it outta Dodge…" Jack stated; his tone was terse as he didn't appreciate having to babysit the snooty heiress.
"Jack, you're just upset," Felicia commented. "I know Elizabeth and she's not snooty or entitled. She's actually quite delightful."
"I've met her several times before and she didn't seem like that, but my uptight meter must be way off kilter."
Elizabeth pushed open the door, "I'll have you know that I am not spoiled, a brat, uptight or lost, and once we land feel free to fly back to Raleigh. I can take care of myself, and I most certainly don't need you to hold my hand."
Suddenly the jet rocked violently as they entered the bad weather Jack had mentioned. Knocked to the floor, Elizabeth looked much like a deer caught in headlights, afraid to move but knowing that she needed to get to a seat and buckle up.
"Help her to her seat," Jack ordered as he struggled with the cockpit controls.
Bella stood beside Elizabeth as she braced herself against the dog to help her stand. Elizabeth had seen the cockpit on numerous occasions and had even sat next to Captain Cole on several trips taken by the family. However, at this moment, the cockpit was the last place she wanted to be.
Elizabeth and Bella made their way to the sofa and buckled in as the jet jostled through the air.
"Dear Heavenly Father…" Elizabeth began to pray…
To be continued…
