(Chapter One)
An Invitation
"Mrs. Thornton," a small voice came from behind Elizabeth one day after school.
"Yes?" She replied as she slowly turned to face the wee girl. "Oh, hi Opal."
"Hi. Could I ask you a question?"
"Oh – of course. What is it?"
" I wanted to invite you to my birthday party." Opal announced brightly.
"Oh, I see . . . When is it?"
"Next Friday after school. Can you come?" the girl asked eagerly.
"Well it sounds lovely, Opal. I would love to come. I will ask Jack – I mean Constable Thornton tonight."
"Oh, you can ask Mountie Jack if he wants to come too."
"Oh, thank you so much, Opal. I'm sure that he would love to."
"Thank you Miss Thatcher – Oops, I – I mean Mrs. Thornton," Opal giggled putting her tiny hands over her mouth.
"That's alright Opal. You will get used to my new name before you know it."
"Thanks, Mrs. Thornton."
They exchanged smiles, and the little girl bounded from the small schoolhouse.
Later that evening when they had finished their dinner and were seated in their love chair drinking tea, Elizabeth broached the subject.
"Opal asked me something after school today."
"Oh, what's that?" Jack offered, setting his steaming teacup on the coffee table.
"She invited me to her birthday party."
"Oh, is that so?" Jack asked teasingly.
"She also invited you," she added, a bit teasingly.
"Oh, I see. Should I accept?"
"Jack," Elizabeth tried to get the words out through her laugh.
"Well . . . I guess I could go . . . as long as my wife is with me," he teased her again.
"Jack. Of course I will go with you."
"Good, then it's settled." They relayed teasing smiles.
"I love you, Elizabeth," Jack whispered ever so quiet.
"Jack –" she started, but was swept away by a gentle kiss.