"Is Jack sad?" Kate whispered that night as she sat next to Elizabeth on her bed. After getting the news Jack had gone to the jail to pack his things. The funeral was tomorrow and he wanted to ride out immediately. He would ride through the night to get there at first light. He had held Elizabeth and Kate so tightly when he left Kate felt like crying herself.

"Doug was like a brother to him." Elizabeth nodded.

"Why does God take away good people?"

"It's all part of a greater plan. Even if we don't understand that plan. Doug died a hero, I'm just afraid Jack will blame himself." Elizabeth sighed.

"It's not Jacks fault.

"No, but he turned down the job to stay here, that's why Doug ended up going to the war. You know how Jack is."

"When is he coming back?"

"By dark tomorrow."

"I miss him, it feels like some awful things have been happening lately." Kate sighed.

"I know, it would seem all three of us are going through a rough patch wouldn't it." Elizabeth nodded.

"When will things be good again?"

"I don't know. But tomorrow when Jack gets back the three of us are going to have a quiet dinner here, and remember to be thankful for what we have and pray for what we need." Elizabeth said softly.


"I offered to go with Jack to the funeral but he said he wanted to go alone." Elizabeth sighed as she and Abigail walked through town the next morning.

"Men are like that, I think they find it harder to grieve then women do." Abigail told her gently.

"Doug was so young. He's not much older then Kate. It really isn't fair."

"I know" Abigail said wrapping an arm around Elizabeth.

"What's wrong?" She asked feeling her friend so tight and unhappy.

"I feel like I'm drifting away." Elizabeth sighed.

"How so?"

"It isn't the same being a tutor and not a teacher. Kate is so unhappy, I'm unhappy, Jack has been so troubled lately and now this? It feels like we are just drifting along and barely making it through each day." Elizabeth sighed.

"I know. But it won't be like this forever. You will help Jack with his grief and he will return to himself. And you will get your teaching job back and you and Kate will be happy again. Just have faith." Abigail said.

"It isn't easy." Elizabeth sighed.

"I know" Abigail patted her hand.


"Jack" Elizabeth said softly coming out of the cafe as she saw him ride back into town. Jack hoped of Sergeant as Elizabeth wrapped her arms around him holding him close.

"Is there anything I can do?" Elizabeth asked letting him go.

"That hug was a good start" Jack said giving her a little smile.

"I just can't believe he's really gone." Jack sighed.

"You were a good friend to him." Elizabeth said.

"I could have done more, I should have done more… Where's Kate?" Jack asked.

"Jack" Kate smiled running over giving him a hug as he lifted her off her feet.

"Can we go have dinner please? Elizabeth made chicken and dumplings and apple pie." Kate said.

"Only if your not to tired. I thought we could all use a quiet night together." Elizabeth said softly turning to Jack.

"An evening with just my girls sounds like exactly what I need" Jack smiled putting his arms around each of them as they walked to the row house.


They were finishing dinner as Kate cleared the table.

"How about a game of cards?" Jack asked pulling the deck from his pocket glancing at Elizabeth. Elizabeth used to not like when Jack took out the cards teaching Kate how to play. But lately she had softened to the idea. Kate and Jack laughed and teased each other so much when they played, as long as there was no betting games, Elizabeth had warmed to the idea.

"A few games then time for bed." Elizabeth said with a smile making Jack and Kate both grin.

"What shall it be then?" Jack asked shuffling the deck as Kate sat across from him and Elizabeth started on the dishes. They all turned when there was a knock on the door.

"Can you get it Katie? Rosemary probably heard you and want's to join" Elizabeth smirked making them chuckle as Kate answered the door. She opened it surprised to see a mountie and a women dressed all in black on the porch.

"Please come in, Jack" Kate said letting them in and calling to Jack who stood crossing the room to her.

"I was escorting Mrs Burke home and she asked to see you. The women who ran the cafe said we might find you here" The older mountie said.

"Of course, please sit" Jack offered the women a chair. Kate recognized her name realizing she must be Doug's mother.

"I will wait outside." The older mountie said leaving to go back to the porch.

"Mrs Burke I'm Elizabeth Thatcher, I am so sorry for your lose." Elizabeth said softly.

"Me too, Doug was really fun when he was here." Kate nodded.

"Doug wrote about you both, he said you were so kind to him." Mrs Burke nodded.

"I will let you two talk, come Kate." Elizabeth said heading to the stairs.

"No, please stay" Mrs Burke said reaching for Elizabeth's hand.

"Of course, up to bed Kate" Elizabeth said. Kate nodded climbing the stairs to her bedroom as Jack sat down across from Mrs Burke.

"I have something for you" Mrs Burke said holding up a necklace with a pendant on it to Jack.

"That's the St Christopher medal I gave Doug the day he graduated." Jack said softly.

"Doug was an only child, he came to think of you Jack, as a big brother, and I think of you as my second son. Which is why I know he would want you to have this." Mrs Burke said. A sad smile crossed Elizabeth lips as she watched Jack shake his head.

"It would be right" Jack said.

"It couldn't be more right." Mrs Burke told him firmly. Jack reached out taking the necklace from her.

"I should have been there Helen. Doug when in my place, please forgive me." Jack whispered.

"Doug's death is not your fault. He wanted to lead those men" Mrs Burke said. Elizabeth was speechless watching Jack wrestle with what he was feeling.

"If I'd gone he'd.. he might still be alive."

"God has a plan for us. I don't understand it, but I know my Doug was happy because God called him to do what he loved doing, and that brings me peace. I pray you are granted peace too Jack" Mrs Burke told Jack giving him a hug.


"Did Jack leave?" Kate asked surprised when she came down the stairs after hearing the door close finding only Elizabeth.

"Yes, he was tired." Elizabeth nodded wiping her eyes. Jack had said he was alright when he left but he was clearly still upset, she wished she could take it away from him.

"Elizabeth, I'm not a little kid. Why do you insist on keeping me out of things lately." Kate frowned.

"Kate…" Elizabeth started.

"You won't tell me everything that happened with Thomas Higgins, you didn't let me go with you when you went to talk to him and now your lying about Jack." Kate yelled.

"Enough Kathryn!" Elizabeth yelled back.

"You treat me like a little kid and I'm not! I know whats going on and you shutting me out of it not doing any good!" Kate cried.

"There is nothing to tell you Kate!"

"You treat me like a kid and expect me to act like an adult and it's not fair. I don't know why you are doing this. You never kept me out of your life so much before!"

"Because I'm afraid" Elizabeth yelled sinking into the couch seeming to lose all her energy.

"Afraid of what?" Kate asked her voice soft now as she went to sit beside Elizabeth.

"Of losing Jack, of the guilt that is eating him alive. Of never getting my job back and never being able to teach again. Of you, not being happy and hating school and Jack and I not being happy and the three of us bring each other down. We are all in such a bad place Katie, I'm so scared it won't change soon." Elizabeth sighed.

"It will." Kate said taking her hand.

"I'm getting so tired of feeling like we are treading water."

"I know, me too. I'm sorry I yelled." Kate whispered.

"Come here, come on, you and me forever right? Thick and thin. We're going to be ok, I just have trouble remembering that sometimes." Elizabeth sighed pulling Kate into her as they held each other.


A few days passed. Jack was still not himself, but he was starting to be, and with each smile from him Elizabeth felt a breath of fresh air. Kate and the other children still disliked school but they loved studying with her in the afternoon despite the fact it added hours to their school days and Elizabeth felt her heart lighter when she was with them all. Saturday morning brought a breath of fresh air for them all. With autumn coming the hot air of summer now had a cool breeze and flowed through the house. Jack was helping with some cleaning of the row house they had put off during the months it was too hot.

"Stove pipe is clean." Jack said climbing down from the roof on the ladder as Kate held it steady.

"Thank you." Elizabeth smiled from where she was picking the last of the tomatoes from the plants they had grown.

"Can we make tomato soup for dinner?" Kate asked.

"If we get enough. I also want to can some for the winter. Abigail is going to show me how tomorrow." Elizabeth nodded.

"I'll go finish the washing so we can hang it before it gets to late. Then can I go to Anna's farm? We were going to help her mother with the sweet corn."

"As long as your chores are finished." Elizabeth nodded.

"Thanks" Kate smiled going inside.

"Elizabeth I was wondering if I could talk to you about something." Jack said sitting down on the back steps as Elizabeth finished picking tomatoes and sat down beside him to wash them in the bucket.

"Of course."

"I have been thinking a lot about Doug and Mrs Burke." Jack said.

"Me too, I pray for all the men up there every day." Elizabeth nodded softly.

"They are all so young, I mean you saw how young Doug was and he was the one leading them. They need someone with experience."

"What are you saying?" Elizabeth asked.

"I was thinking that maybe I could be helpful if I went up…" Jack started.

"I thought you said it was dangerous?" Elizabeth cut him.

"It is." Jack nodded.

"No, no Jack you can't go." Elizabeth said firmly.

"I feel that…" Jack started.

"It's to dangerous, we need you here." Elizabeth told him. Jack opened his mouth about to stay something then the back door opened and they both turned to see Kate standing there.

"Elizabeth, there's a women here looking for you, she said she's come because of your letter." Kate said softly.

"Of course." Elizabeth cried jumping up as she and Jack went into the house finding a women Elizabeth's age sitting on the couch.

"Francine" Elizabeth greeted her with a smile.

"I got your letter and I wanted to come. I think I might have something that could help you get your job back."

"We will leave you two to talk, come on Kate." Jack said.

"Thank you" Elizabeth nodded as Jack and Kate left the row house.


Not long after Elizabeth sat in Mayor Gowen's office again. Francine was with her and Jack stood behind her his arms crossed just daring Henry Gowen to mess with her even more. Kate and Abigail hung back to offer support, and Abigail was hoping to convince Henry to listen to reason, or she would inform him that the mothers in the Valley had their own plans for a school for their children.

"Mr Gowen this is a letter from Tomas Higgins to me, in it you will find some crudely written things, that he was asking of me." Francine said putting the paper in front of Henry.

"The same things that were asked of me, and that angered him when I turned him down." Elizabeth said firmly.

"If you will compare the writing, I think you will see that it's the same." Francine said. Mr Gowen glanced at the two papers in front of him.

"The evidence is undeniable. Miss Thatcher I reinstate you as Hope Valley teacher effective immediately." Mr Gowen said. Jack reached out squeezing Elizabeth's shoulder as Abigail grinned and Kate all but squealed bouncing on her toes.

"Your back!" Kate cried unable to contain her excitement anymore as the little group was out on the street.

"I am back! I'm a teacher again, Oh I am so happy." Elizabeth cried losing her usual composer in her excitement making Jack laugh.

"Congratulations, you are so brave Elizabeth, you never let anyone stop you from doing what you love. You gave other girls the courage to speak up and made everyone better for it." Jack told her.

"I think this, called for a celebration." Abigail smiled.

"Me too! Can I go tell Laura please?" Kate asked.

"Of course, spread the word. Monday morning I will be back in front of the classroom." Elizabeth laughed.

"Yes!" Kate cried hurrying down the street.

"You are so happy" Jack said pulling Elizabeth into his side as Kate ran off and the walked a few feet behind Abigail to the cafe.

"This is my calling. Teaching is what I was made to do and I can't wait to get back to it." Elizabeth smiled.


"I don't think Rosemary herself could spread the word faster then Kate did this morning." Abigail chuckled

"I must admit I'm just as excited as she is." Elizabeth smiled.

"Is she still shouting it from the roof tops?" Abigail asked.

"I think she went down to the pond with Anna and Laura. I told her to let them know whatever homework was assigned to them to ignore. I want to start fresh on Monday. I do believe I heard talked of a party." Elizabeth laughed.

"Well I don't blame them. All those children have been buried under homework for days." Abigail shook her head.

"I think I might just head over to the school. Mr Stoneman is getting on the stage tonight, I want to go put all my things back and fix the room." Elizabeth said standing up.

"Just can't wait until Monday to be back into the school house can you?" Abigail chuckled.

"I suppose not." Elizabeth grinned waving to her friend and making her way down the street. In the field the older boys were playing baseball. Some of the little children were fishing near by in the pond. Kate and her friends sat by them chatting and watching.

"Miss Thatcher!" Emily cried as the children ran up to her.

"Hello everyone" Elizabeth smiled as the little children gathered around her. The boys stopped their game to gather around as did the older girls.

"Are you really coming back?" Cody asked.

"I am" Elizabeth smiled.

"Tomorrow?" Opal cried.

"Well theres no school tomorrow sweetie it's Sunday. But I will be there Monday morning" Elizabeth grinned.

"What are we doing?" Gabe asked.

"I think if we can figure out where we all left off, we might have time for a science lesson on the all Katydid bugs hanging off the edge of our school house?"

"Awesome!" The boys cried.

"Everyone who can find one and put it in a jar Monday morning for us to look at earns 5 extra minutes of recess for everyone." Elizabeth smiled.

"That could be a whole extra hour!" Laura did the math quickly counting the children gathered around.

"Miss Abigail has canning jars!" Cody cried.

"Let's go!" Miles yelled as all the children took of running to find a jar and a bug. Elizabeth laughed climbing the steps to the school house she opened the door surprised to see Jack talking to Paster Frank. Not wanting to interrupt she closed the door behind her softly.

"You can always pray about it Jack." Frank said softly.

"I know what I need to do and I have made my peace with it. I haven't stoped praying for Elizabeth since I decided though." Jack said with a sigh. Their back was turned to her and neither of them knew she was there.

"And you're sure?"

"The fighting is getting bad. I need to go north." Jack nodded.

"Jack." Elizabeth said making them both turn to look at her.

"I will give you two some time." Frank told Jack softly as he stood up leaving the school house. Elizabeth's mind was turned off, it felt like she wasn't understanding anything Jack had said that she had over heard. Jack stood up walking towards her.

"I didn't know you had made up your mind about going to fight up north." Elizabeth said softly searching his eyes from some clue that it wasn't really true. That she had heard wrong, that he was still just struggling with grief and guilt.

"I tried to tell you earlier.." Jack started.

"I don't want you to go." Elizabeth said firmly.

"Elizabeth, I have to."

"No you don't, Jack you can't."

"Elizabeth listen to me, the same God that called you to be a teacher, called me to serve my country. I can't turn my back on that anymore then you can." Jack said softly.

"Then I will go with you" Elizabeth said straightening her back and closing the space between them. She broke his heart, she was so brave and determined, and willing to give up her home and life here to go with him.

"You can't" Jack had to say firmly because every part of him wanted her to come and he had to talk himself into saying no just as much as her.

"Why not?" Elizabeth asked, her face fell losing it's confidence.

"You are needed here, your calling is here to help these children. And it's dangerous Elizabeth, theres so much fighting, I don't want you or Kate anywhere near that." Jack said softly reaching for her hand.

"How long will you be gone?" Elizabeth asked her whole face falling now tears in her sea blue eyes and Jack hated himself for making her look this way.

"It's an indefinite posting" Jack said softly. Elizabeth let out a sob tears falling from her eyes as she turned from him hurrying out of the school house.

"Elizabeth!" Jack called chasing after her.


"Elizabeth!" Jack's voice carried over to the lake where Kate was sitting with Laura and Anna. At the distressed sound in his voice Kate turned to see Elizabeth hurrying down the stairs of the school house. Jack chasing her as he gently grabbed her arm forcing her to stop and turn to him.

"Just leave me alone Jack" Elizabeth said firmly and Kate could hear the tears in her voice as she took off down the road toward the row houses quickly not turning back. Jack watched her for a while before making his way back towards town, moving slowly, his head hanging low.

"What happened?" Laura asked.

"I don't know" Kate shook her head her eyes going back and forth between the two places they had disappeared to. Things had been so wonderful, everyone was happy.

"I heard them talking, I was at the back door looking for the bugs. They were upset" Robert said walking over to them.

"What did they say?" Kate asked frowning.

"Mountie Jack is going up north to fight and Miss Thatcher got real upset. She doesn't want him to go" Robert said.

"Oh no poor Miss Thatcher" Anna cried.

"What should we do Kate?" Laura asked. Kate sighed, her heart was breaking for Jack, and her sister. She didn't want Jack to leave them, he was so important to them. But Elizabeth was upset enough for the both of them and Kate couldn't be right now.

"She said she wanted to be left alone, there is nothing I can do now. Jack will fix it, Jack alway's fixes it." Kate said firmly because she so badly wanted to believe it was true. Laura nodded in agreement.


"Kate" a voice called to her as she was walking down the street in search of Elizabeth. It had been an hour since she had run off and now the sun was starting to set. The other children had gone home and Kate had set off to find Elizabeth, hoping that Jack had fixed their problem already. Once he saw how upset she was, surly he would change his mind. At the sound of her name Kate looked around not seeing anyone.

"Kate" It called again. Kate glanced around again almost missing Jack as he waved her over from the back of a building were he seemed to be hiding. Kate walked up to him practically stomping her feet.

"Is it true?" She yelled. Jack put his finger to his lips.

"Don't you hush me Jack Thornton! Are you going? I saw how upset it made her, how can you do that!" Kate yelled.

"I know, I hate to do this to her, but I have to go, good men are dying up there. Young kids not much older then you. They need someone with experience to help out" Jack whispered lifting Kate off her feet and forcing her behind the mercantile where he seemed to be hiding.

"Put me down! Suppose you never come back! Suppose you get hurt or die or go missing, what do you think that will do to her Jack!"

"I'm going to come back. Listen I want to talk to you about something." Jack said still trying to get Kate to lower her voice

"I don't know that I want to talk to you." Kate shot back crossing her arms. Oh the drama, Rosemary would be proud but she was more then angry, and scared if she were being honest. They had heard terrible stories of the fighting up north.

"I want to ask your sister to marry me." Jack said softly. Surprise and maybe even delight crosses Kate's face and Jack marveled at the way she was able to shoot it right back down glaring at him.

"What's that got to do with me?" Kate asked. Truly her heart was beating so fast. She was so scared Jack was going to war, so sad he was leaving. But now this, this was so happy. If Jack were to ask Kate how she was feeling she didn't think she would be able to put it into words.

"Because, I want your permission. I know you girls, I know you come in a pair and you are the most important thing in the world to her. If your father was around I would ask him but he's not and your her family so I am asking you. Do I have your blessing?" Jack said. That softened Kate up a lot, he could see it in her face so he went on.

"I would never ask her to wait for me. But I love her with my whole heart and I want to make her my wife. I would be the luckiest man on earth if she would marry me. I want to make a life with her, and you, your my sister Kate. You have been since that day Elizabeth went into the mine and I took care of this scared quiet little girl. Ever since that day you have felt like my own sister and your so important to me." Jack said softly.

"She will say yes" Kate nodded softly.

"How can you be so sure? I'm about to ask her to wait for me for a long time while I go off to fight." Jack sighed running his fingers through his hair.

"Because she loves you, more then anything else in this world, you tell her exactly what you told me and I know she will say yes" Kate gave him a smile.

"I have a ring, I know it's nothing fancy, She probably expected so much more." Jack pulled out the small box from his pocket popping it open showing Kate the ring inside. By Hope Valley standards it was big, but by Hamilton standards he was sure it didn't match up to anything she dreamed of having back in the city.

"It's beautiful Jack, and Elizabeth doesn't care about the ring, she will just be happy to be married to you." Kate assured him with a smile.

"Will you help me with something then?" Jack asked.

"Anything brother" Kate nodded with a smile.


Darkness had just set in as Kate made her way down the dirt road to the Cafe. She clutched Jack's note tightly in her hands while being mindful not to creese it. This was the most important thing she may ever deliver in her life. She glanced in the window and saw her tearful sister sitting with Abigail at the table as they talked over tea. She took a breath walking into the dimly lit cafe feeling almost as nervous as Jack must feel. Abigail and Elizabeth turned to her as she walked in.

"There you are!" Abigail sighed in relief.

"Where have you been, I was worried sick!" Elizabeth cried waving Kate over to her.

"I heard what Jack said" Kate said wrapping her arms around her sister and Elizabeth clung to her tightly.

"I'm just so upset and worried" Elizabeth whispered.

"I know, me too" Kate nodded.

"Kate can I get you some dinner? There's still steak and corn left" Abigail asked

"Yes where were you during dinner? I haven't seen you since just after lunch with the other children." Elizabeth asked again.

"I was doing something, that reminds me I have a note for you" Kate said handing her sister the note from Jack. Elizabeth pulled it open as Abigail watched her curiously.

"Take a walk with me." Elizabeth read out loud. She looked up at Kate with a question on her face. Kate gave her a smile nodding toward the door. All three women got up and Elizabeth pulled open the door and they were greeted with a pathway of candle light leading around the corner. Elizabeth glanced back at Kate and Abigail who hung back in the door smiling.

"Go on" Kate encouraged her with a smile. Elizabeth returned it and started down the stairs following the path around the bend and out of sight.

"Is Jack up to what I think he is?" Abigail asked.

"He's going to ask her to marry him. Elizabeth is going to say yes and it's going to be so romantic." Kate sighed as Abigail laughed.

"Come on you, let's get you some dinner" She said.

"Actually, we have to go meet Rosemary in the saloon now. We have to set up for the party." Kate said.

"Party huh? Let's go" Abigail smiled.


On the other side of the town Elizabeth followed the path to find Jack standing at the bottom of the stairs of the school house.

"Hi" she whispered when she got to him, already feeling so sorry for the way she had spoken to him earlier.

"Hi" He answered ever so stoic but there was a twinkle in his eyes.

"Is there a reason for this walk?" Elizabeth asked.

"There is" Jack nodded

"I know I have no right to ask you to wait for me while I'm gone.."

"Jack, I would wait an eternity for you" Elizabeth told him firmly. Jack took a deep breath and suddenly sunk down with one knee on the ground. Elizabeth stepped back with a gasp as she suddenly realized what he was doing.

"Elizabeth Thatcher, will you marry me?" Jack asked holding up the box with the ring.

"Yes, yes of course!" Elizabeth cried almost before he finished asking, Jack got back to his feet pulling her into his arms in one swift motion so fast she fell into him as he caught her lips kissing her over and over. Kissing her had never felt like this before and he pulled back controlling himself. Jack gently took her hand sliding the ring onto her finger as Elizabeth let out a little gasp. He felt butterflies in his belly seeing the ring on her finger, the one he had been holding onto for years.

"I love you." Jack breathed.

"I love you too" Elizabeth whispered kissing him again before they held each other tightly.

"I asked Kate's permission" Jack said when they both seemed to come down from the high.

"Of course you did" Elizabeth giggled.

"Well normally I think a man should ask a women's father, I thought Kate was the closest thing. I wanted to make sure she was alright with it." Jack said.

"Jack, this is wonderful." Elizabeth sighed.

"I want to sit here with you forever, but there's a little party in the saloon for us." Jack whispered gathering her into his arms again.

"A party?" Elizabeth asked, she wanted to be excited to see her friends, but an even bigger part of her wanted this time with Jack, knowing full well their minutes were numbered.

"We will get time, I promise." Jack told her as if reading her mind.


"Well, well? What did you say!" Kate asked bouncing on her toes as she stood outside the saloon doors waiting for them. Kate already knew the answer, Elizabeth draped over Jack's arm and the smile plastered onto both of their faces said it all. But she was to excited to just base it on gestures.

"She said yes" Jack laughed.

"Congratulations! I can't believe it! finally!" Kate yelled throwing her arms around both of them making them laugh.

"Finally is right." Jack nodded when she let them go.

"And you really have to leave still? Kate asked softly. She would be lying if she said she hadn't been holding her breath, that maybe if Elizabeth said yes Jack would change his mind.

"I have to, but I will be back, I have you two waiting here for me. I will come back and we will be a family, for good." Jack told her squeezing Elizabeth's hand.

"And in the mean time, you are I will be planning a wedding." Elizabeth said.

"Ok" Kate nodded giving them a little smile.

"I will take care of up north, You girls take care of everything down here, and then we will get married and move into our new house." Jack assured her.

"Good" Kate really smiled now.

"Now, should we go to our party?" Jack asked.

"Come on!" Kate laughed opening the doors as the whole town before them shouted in excitement.


"Oh Elizabeth" Rosemary smiled walking up to Elizabeth as she chatted with Abigail. All their friends were gathered in the saloon for the evening. They were celebrating Jack and Elizabeth's engagement, as well as taking a chance to send Jack off together. It was a quick thrown together party, but Kate and Rosemary had been working on it since Jack told Kate his plan and Elizabeth was just thankful for the chance to see everyone. Jack had been whisked away by Lee and Bill to have a drink at the bar.

"Rosemary, thank you for helping with all this." Elizabeth smiled.

"It's just such a shame Jack has to leave first thing tomorrow." Rosemary sighed.

"The sooner he leaves the sooner he is back." Abigail said softly.

"Of course, and I wanted to let you know, I will do everything I can to help you with this wedding. Clara and I already decided we will personally design your wedding gown."Rosemary said.

"Wow!" Kate cried. Rosemary and Clara had been working together a lot lately. Rosemary was a wonderful designer and Clara could sew up anything she drew. With them working together Elizabeth was sure to be the most beautiful bride.

"Oh I couldn't ask you to do that" Elizabeth shook her head.

"You didn't. We want to. You do so much for this town, we wanted to do something special for you. We can get started right way and then it will be already for you by the time Jack gets back." Rosemary said.

"thank you" Elizabeth smiled as Jack made his way over wrapping his arm around her waste. Kate thought they were constantly connected before, they Hadn't spent more then a few minutes apart in the hour they had been at the party.

"Well I for one think this calls for a toast." Abigail said as the room went quiet and everyone turned to Jack and Elizabeth.

"Everyone, please help me in wishing Jack the best. We hope that you are safe and work hard so you can come back to us soon. To Jack and Elizabeth, never have I seen a love as strong as yours. You constantly support each other, help each other and challenge each other. Here is to many years, of love, happiness and family." Abigail said raising her glass.

"Here here!" Everyone cried raising their own glasses.

"This is quite the gathering" Elizabeth smiled as everyone returned to their chatting and Jack was able to pull her away for a minute.

"It is, but I have to go pack." Jack said softly.

"Will you come back?"

"Yes, I have to go get my things together, make sure the office is setup for Bill to work there. But I will be back after to say goodbye to everyone, then you and I will have as much time as we want without me having to leave to pack." Jack said softly.

"Alright" Elizabeth gave him a smile. He saw all her emotion in her eyes but she was so strong. He leaned down kissing her softly, aware of all the people in the room with them but unable to stop himself.

"Have fun, I'll see you later" Jack said rubbing her back for a minute before edging around the crowed and heading to the door.

"Jack!" Kate called as he pulled it open hurrying over to him.

"Your leaving?" Kate asked worried.

"Just to go pack my things. I will be back in a little while." Jack said and relief crossed Kate's face.

"Hey, I won't leave town without saying good bye." Jack assured her.

"Ok" Kate nodded.

"I do need to ask you for something, while I'm away, will you take care of Rip?"

"Yes I will" Kate smiled.

"Thanks, See you later Little Shadow." Jack gave her a wink before closing the door behind him and crossing the street.


"The time has come my friend" Jack said putting the last thing in his pack he knelt down petting Rip who lay by the stove watching him.

"The girls are going to take you home with them, Bill will be here during the day so you can come sleep here after you walk the girls to school" Jack said scratching his ears. Rip made a noise as if to agree.

"But I need you to take care of some things while I'm away. First Kate, she's such a good girl, she deals with a lot, and sometimes I feel like she tries to carry the weight of the world on her shoulders. Make sure you give her some fun while I'm gone. She's growing up fast, and I feel like it's been my job to remind her she's still a kid sometimes, that's your job now." Jack said with a little smile on his lips.

"And then there's Elizabeth. I love her with all my heart boy, more then I ever thought I could love someone. She is the sun, the moon, and all of the stars. She tries to be brave and hold everyone up and put on a smile, but I know she's going to be having a hard time with me leaving. I need you so step up and be there for our girls. Because when I get back, we're going to be a family. A little bit of a mixed up family, but the greatest one I could ever imagine for myself." Jack chuckled smiling to himself as Rip wagged his tail.

"I'm going to go back to the party, I will see you later ok boy?" Jack said rubbing the dogs ears again. He got up taking one last look around his office before he left.


Jack had to leave first thing in the morning after the party. It was late when the last person left and Jack and the girls were helping Abigail clean up. Abigail had offered to let the girls stay in their old room upstairs instead of returning so late at night and coming back so early in the morning. Kate crawled into the bed and Abigail went to bed across the hall. Kate lay awake waiting for Elizabeth who was up writing in her journal downstairs. She was surprised when she heard the front door open slowly. She sat up going to the window. Elizabeth was making her way down the street, her shawl wrapped tightly around her. Kate watched as he sister walked through the dark silent town and went into the school house, a dim light came from the window and Kate understood Elizabeth needed time to pray and be close to god. Tomorrow was going to be one of the hardest days she had ever had. Kate went to her bed kneeling down.

"Dear Lord, please protect Jack. Please help Elizabeth, they both need so much looking after" Kate prayed.

Elizabeth walked into the church lighting a few of the candles before settling into the first row sitting in the silence. She heard footsteps behind her and Jack slid into the seat next to her gently taking her hand in his. She leaned her head on his shoulder closing her eyes as they both sat silently.


Dawn came much to soon for Jack as he stared up at the cross on the wall in front of him. Sometime in the night he had taken off his surge jacket wrapping it around Elizabeth to keep her warm. She lay heavy on his shoulder now, having fallen asleep a few hours ago. Her head dipped just next to his chin and his arm was around her holding her to him tightly. He didn't want to leave her, if given the choice he would sit here with her for the rest of his life. All night his silent prayers had been for her, for her to fine peace and be safe while he was away. The birds started chirping and he reached up gently, cupping her face in his hands and rubbing his thumb over her cheek as she slowly woke up. He never knew skin could be so soft until her. She opened her eyes looking up at him slowly and he saw her remember what had to happen today as he pulled her tighter.

"It's time" He whispered. She nodded giving him a tiny smile, before snuggling back into his side for another minute. She was so brave, so good. He couldn't imagine her not being a part of his everyday life. Not holding her hand or hearing her voice. He never knew a person could feel like this before Elizabeth. He never imagined he could feel like this about someone. She was his whole heart and soul and he loved her so much.


Everyone Kate knew was gathered in the center of town as Jack tied the reigns on Sergeant. When he was ready, he turned around facing everyone. The street was lined with people waving flowers and flags at him. Their closest friends were gathered at the steps of the mercantile. Elizabeth hung back pretending to pet Sergeant refusing to look around, hiding her tear streaked face. Kate knew she was crying as Jack made his way to Bill first.

"Can I count on you to keep an eye on things for me?" Jack asked.

"I will, be safe Jack." Bill said as they shook hands. Jack nodded moving to Abigail.

"Take good care of my girls" Jack whispered softly.

"I will, you just worry about coming home to them" Abigail said tears, falling from her eyes as she hugged him tightly.

"I know you will, thank you" Jack nodded. He turned to Cody who was saluting him bravely. Jack saluted him back giving him a wink. He went to Kate next who was hardly holding back tears watching Elizabeth. Jack cupped her chin forcing her eyes away from Elizabeth up to look at him.

"You girls take care of each other, do your school work and listen to your sister, help her out. Have patients with each other, I won't be here to figure out your squabbles" Jack teased her.

"Ok." Kate whispered feeling the lump in her throat.

"You write to me? I'll write back, and practice that piano. You can play for me when I come home, I'll see you soon, ok little shadow?" He said bending down a bit to see into Kate's eyes, begging her to talk and not remain so silent.

"Elizabeth lost a lot of people in her life. She needs you to come back Jack" Kate whispered a tear falling down her cheek.

"I will." Jack nodded sweeping her off her feet in a bigger hug then Kate had ever gotten.

"See you soon big brother." She whispered and he held her even tighter. He set her down turning to Elizabeth last. He knew there was nothing to say to her. Nothing that could be said. She kept looking down until he cupped her cheek in his large hand making her look up, he had to smirk at how alike his girls were.

"I love you" He whispered.

"I love you too" Elizabeth choked out managing a brave smile. Jack returned it hugging her firmly before letting her go and mounted his horse. Elizabeth stepped back giving him a strong smile holding back her tears and Kate reached out holding her hand tightly. Jack gave them all one last nod before riding out down the road, he turned the corner and was gone. The world seemed to stand still, no one said a word. Elizabeth was breathing heavy holding back her sobs and Kate felt tears rolling down her own face. Suddenly Elizabeth dropped her hand racing around the corner Jack had just gone.

"Jack!" Kate heard her yell after him, sobs coming out. Kate turned, it was to heart breaking to watch again, just to hear her sister so upset.


Elizabeth had raced around the corner yelling for Jack again her voice cracking. Jack stoped Sergeant so heard the horse almost sat down as he turned him not even pulling him to a complete stop before hopping off. Jack closed the distance between then in two big strides pulling Elizabeth to him kissing her. She tasted like the salty tears on her face her lips wet this kiss was frantic and deep as he tried to give her everything he was feeling. She was crying still as he kissed her feeling her back tremble in his arms. He pulled back picking up her hand kissing the ring he had put on her finger twelve hours ago. His promise to her always. Jack kissed her again quickly then had to let her go. He turned his back to her walking to Sergeant, afraid if he didn't go now he would never be able to leave her. He hopped back onto the horse turning back. Elizabeth was watching him, still silently crying, if Jack could he would burst into tears himself. His heart was breaking for her. He gave her a nod riding off before he could stop himself, because one more look back at her and he knew for sure he would.


Kate heard the hoofbeats that Jack had turned back around but they were still around the corner out of sight where Elizabeth had ran to. It broke Kate's heart and she let out a sob too, catching herself before it got out of control turning away from everyone as people had started to leave.

"Kate" Laura whispered putting her arm around her but Kate just shook her head glancing up seeing Abigail standing near by talking to Rosemary, both of them drying their tears.

"Oh darling" Rosemary whispered seeing Kate. Abigail turned and quickly went to Kate gathering her into a hug.

"It's ok, its a sad day. It's ok, we are all worried." She cooed softly as Kate cried into her shoulder.

"It will be alright" Rosemary said putting an arm around both Kate and Laura. They heard hoof beats disappearing and Kate knew Jack was officially gone.

"Come sweet girls, let's have some tea and cookies huh?" Abigail asked gently with her arm around Kate she began to lead them back to the cafe

"What about Elizabeth?" Kate asked.

"We will give her some space to be sad." Rosemary said softly.

"Not to much ok" Kate asked.

"No, not to much, just some time to gather her thoughts. In the meantime she will know where to find us." Abigail assured her.


It was evening before anyone heard from Elizabeth. Kate had gone looking for her after lunch but she hadn't been at the row house, or the school house. Abigail assured Kate that she just needed time and when she was ready, she would know where to find them. Abigail, Laura and Rosemary had hardly left Kate's side all day keeping her busy and making her laugh. As the sun was setting they joined the rest of the town at the church for the town meeting where Timmy was supposed to play piano after the meeting. But when the meting ended Timmy just looked around the room worried.

"I need Miss Thatcher." He whispered to Kate.

"She's sad about Mountie Jack, but you can still play Timmy, you practiced so much." Kate assured him.

"I could sing with you." Rosemary offered.

"No, I need Miss Thatcher, she promised." Timmy said.

"And I never break a promise." They turned to see Elizabeth standing in the back of the church offering Timmy a smile.

"You ok?" Kate whispered as Elizabeth slipped by her.

"Yes, are you?"

"Better that your here." Kate nodded.

"You ready?" Elizabeth turned to Timmy who gave her a nod going to the piano. He started to play as Kate took her seat next to Abigail. She instantly recognized the song, Danny Boy, one of Jack's favorites. How many times had Kate heard Jack humming it as he went about chores around the row house or town? After waiting a minute Elizabeth started to sing. Her voice was strong and sweet like always. Kate sighed as Elizabeth familiar voice filled the room. It was beautiful, natural talent mixed with years of singing lessons had given her the most beautiful voice. Kate's first memories were of Elizabeth singing her to sleep and her voice instantly brought her comfort. When the song ended Elizabeth's voice has cracked holding back tears she had to whisper the last few years a tear trailing down her cheek. The room was silent for a second before Timmy was off the piano bench is arms around Elizabeth's waist hugging her tight. In a second Kate was out of her own seat and the other children joined her all of them hugging Elizabeth as the same time as she let out a little laugh trying to gather all her students into her arms. The adults were on their feet clapping, offering her their love in their own way. And for the first time in 24 hours, Kate felt like they just might be ok.


That night Elizabeth and Kate walked home quietly, silent as Elizabeth closed the door of the row house behind them.

"I think I may go right to bed" Elizabeth sighed sitting to take off her shoes.

"Of course, do you need anything?" Kate asked.

"No sweetie just some sleep." Elizabeth gave her a smile kissing her good night before climbing the stairs. Kate locked the door and put out the lamp, lighting only a small candle as she climbed the stairs looking into Elizabeth's dark room before changed into her night gown. Kate opened her shutters looking up at the clear sky wondering where Jack was and if he could see the same stars. Kate bit her lip glancing at her own bed before leaving her room and crossing the landing and pushing Elizabeth door all the way open with a creak. Elizabeth rolled over wiping her eyes already holding up the blanket as Kate crawled under it and Elizabeth pulled her to her tightly. They were silent for a while, until Elizabeth's body stopped shaking with silent sobs.

"We're not going to be able to do this when your married to Jack you know" Kate whispered into the dark and Elizabeth chuckled brushing hair from her sister's eyes kissing her forehead.

"Of course we will, I will just come sleep in your bed" Elizabeth said making Kate laugh.

"I love you" Kate whispered.

"I love you too Katie, so much, I would be so lost with out you" Elizabeth sighed pulling Kate into her side as Kate settled with her head on Elizabeth's shoulder. Elizabeth's breathing got calm and even, Kate knew she was so tired from the day and not sleeping the night before. She closed her eyes saying a silent prayer for Jack, the same prayer she had been praying almost every hour since he left and knew she would probably be praying all her waking hours until her returned. 'Please God, watch over Jack, help him do his job and return home safely to us as soon as he can. And please give Elizabeth the peace to find comfort in his absence. Amen.'