(Fair warning my dear readers. Things are getting more romantic and heated up...in the best possible way of course! I hope you like it and thanks so much for reading...)

Chapter 52 "Where do you wish to stand Constable?"

Jack woke up happy, thinking back to Elizabeth accepting her God given gifts and telling him that he was her passion. He nodded, thankful for the blessing of having her in his life. He took care of Rip, made a pot of coffee and sat at the desk to do paperwork when Bill came in.

"Good morning Jack, how are you?" Bill poured a cup and sat down.

"Above average," Jack grinned.

"Oh? Above average huh?"

"Yes, everyone wakes up average don't they?" Jack stood, pressing his fingertips on his chest, "I am above average because I am marrying the most wonderful woman…ever."

Bill nodded, "Indeed…and she's a brave one too…taking on you." Bill chuckled.

Jack stopped. "What does that mean?"

Bill stood, shaking his head, "Nothing…just marrying a Mountie, that's all. Truth is you're a lucky man and she's a lucky woman and it's coming soon, you ready?"

"Yes, I'm ready and so is she," Jack clapped his hands, "I'll be seeing her later, can't wait." Jack took his hat and left the jail to begin his rounds.

At the café, William Thatcher waited in the dining room for Elizabeth, looking through the box he needed to give her. She joined him at his table, "Good morning father," she poured herself a cup of coffee.

"Beth, everything is here. Mr. Boston came through with what you wanted," he slid the box over to her.

"Oh thank you so much father," she took the box, "I'll see you later. Mother, Julie and I are doing some things for the wedding today." She kissed her father's cheek and left the dining room.

William gave a faint wave as his daughter rushed out of the room, "My girls, they're always rushing off somewhere."

After a busy day with the women, Elizabeth bathed and changed into a new pink dress that was a gift from her mother. It was pale pink with dark pink ribbon trim around the square neckline and on the three quarter length sleeves. The skirt had dark pink and white embroidered flowers. She put her hair up in a bun, securing it with one large flowered clip. She grabbed her bag, headed downstairs to the kitchen, where Abigail was busy guiding her new helpers, Kate Thatcher, Mary Thornton and Julie Thatcher. Elizabeth put her hand to her mouth, covering her smile, "I hope you all have a wonderful time, stay calm and out of each other's way," she said.

"We'll manage. You look lovely dear, that dress is just beautiful on you," her mother said.

"Thank you mother, I love it," she walked to Abigail, "now you remember what to tell Jack?"

"Yes, don't worry, I'll get him there," Abigail patted her friend's arm, "Now go and get ready."

"Thank you," Elizabeth's shoulders raised as she smiled in her happiness. She hurried to their house, stepped up onto the porch and ran her hand over her carved "T" plaque that Jack hung near the front door, rolling her eyes remembering how many tries it took to make it look this good. Inside she set up a few items in the living room on the coffee table. She took a few deep breathes as she paced back and forth rehearsing the speech she'd prepared to present Jack with his wedding gifts. She tugged on her fingertips, nervous that looking into his eyes she would lose her train of thought. After several minutes she headed to the bathroom, to check her hair. She glanced at the bathtub, shaking her head, talking to herself, "Why do we need such a big tub Jack?" She sat on the edge of the tub, "It is beautiful…" she ran her hand along the rim.

Jack entered the house and not seeing Elizabeth in the living room or kitchen walked down the hall, finally spotting her in the bathroom. His forehead crinkled wondering why she was sitting on the rim of the bathtub, "Thinking of taking a bath?"

Elizabeth, surprised to hear his voice, turned, lost her balance and slid back into the tub, her feet sticking straight up in the air. "Jack!"

Jack couldn't contain his laughter, slapping his thighs at the site of Elizabeth sliding into tub, her feet and petticoats moving frantically in the air. "Are you okay?" he managed.

"Jack Thornton, help me out of here..." she pushed with her hands trying to sit up, "please…"

Jack knelt down at the side of the tub, his forearms along the rim, his chin resting on his arms, "Do I have to teach you how to take a bath too?" He laughed.

"Very funny," she rolled onto her hip, managing to sit up, sliding her legs under her, "it's your fault, you bought this big tub," she pouted.

The corner of Jack's mouth turned up and he slapped the rim of the tub as he stood.

She looked up at him as he climbed in facing her, "What….what are you doing?" she asked shimmying as Jack spread his legs around her.

Jack held the rim of the tub and moved closer to her, "I'm demonstrating the use of this tub," his face inches from hers.

She looked into his eyes, then glancing down at the way they were sitting, his legs wrapped around her, "Oh…"

Jack swallowed a chuckle, "Could be fun…couldn't it?"

She opened her mouth to respond but only managed a nod.

"You, me and Gardenia Surprise," he reached out and pulled her close, kissing her.

His movements and hands across her back made her nervous and she pushed away, dropping her hands onto his thighs. "I…I…have a surprise for you…"

Jack looked at her hands on his thighs, and then up into her eyes and brushed a curl from her face, "What's that?" Jack reached and pulled the hairpin holding her bun in plaace, letting her hair tumble over her shoulders. He touched her hair, running his fingers through it and gently pushed it over her shoulder and ran his fingers down her back.

"I ….I...don't remember right now…" she smiled, looking down as he touched her hair.

He twirled a piece of her hair and then held the rim of the tub, "This will be different of course when there's water in it…surrounding us."

She looked at him, "Yes and we're …" she looked down at her hands on his thighs and slowly lifted them off, "well, you know."

He took a deep breath and lifted her chin, "Elizabeth," he leaned closer to kiss her. Elizabeth slowly slid her hands around his shoulders and kissed him. She wiggled trying to raise herself onto her knees.

Her innocent movements made Jack squirm uncomfortably and he knew they better remove themselves from the intimate confines of the tub, "Here, let me get out first and I'll help you out," he put his hands on the rim of the tub, "Ahh, can you turn around, I …I...don't want to kick you by accident."

Elizabeth was squirming and moving nervously in the tub, her hands on his thigh one minute then on his shoulder, "Yes, wait, I can stand…"

"Okay," as soon as she turned away, Jack quickly pulled himself up and out of the tub, offering her his hands to assist her. They both just looked into the now empty tub. "Well…," Jack looked at her and they smiled nervously at each other before Jack took her hand and led her out of the bathroom. "Do you remember what your surprise is now?" he stopped in the hallway.

"Yes, come with me," recovering from what just happened she smoothed her skirt with her hands and led the way to the parlor. "Sit here with me Jack," she patted a cushion on the sofa.

Jack noticed the bag on the coffee table, covering something. "Elizabeth, what's this, you don't have to give me anything…"

"Shhh! Now Jack, you're going to be my husband and that deserves a gift," she smiled.

"That is my gift, you as my wife," he touched her hand.

She cleared her throat, trying to recall what she planned to say, "While not as lovely as your gifts, I do have a few things I want to give you to mark this moment in our lives. I can't draw like you," she glanced at his drawing of their grove of trees hanging on the wall, "and well, I can't do many things, but I still wanted to get you a gift," she smiled, "something personal that no one else could ever give you."

Jack closed his eyes, "Thank you…"

Elizabeth pulled the cloth bag cover off her packages, "Here ..." She handed him a wrapped package.

Jack flashed that dimpled smile at her and ripped open the paper revealing a large silver box with "Jack Thornton" cursively engraved on the top. It was large, approximately ten inches long by six inches wide and about four inches deep. Jack ran his fingers over it, "it's beautiful."

"Open it," Elizabeth said watching closely for his reaction.

Inside the box were various sketching pencils and sharpeners and engraved on the inside cover "For drawing and creating our wonderful life. I love you always, Elizabeth". Jack clenched the box tightly with both hands, exhaling.

Elizabeth tenderly covered his hands with her own, "My wedding gift to you Jack."

Jack sniffled a bit and looked up through dampened eye lashes and whispered, "Thank you…I love this and I love you."

Elizabeth tenderly touched his face and kissed him, "I love you too." She took the box from his hands and placed it on the table, handing Jack another package, "This isn't so much a wedding gift, consider it a family gift."

Jack looked at her, "Okay…but you really didn't need to do this," he stuck out the tip of his tongue, "but I'm glad you did …this is fun," he smiled. He ripped the package open to reveal a wooden plaque. Shaped as a shield, Jack looked at Elizabeth and then read the brass engraved plate out loud, "For Honorable Service to the Canadian Mounted Police, Thomas Thornton is Recognized for His Distinguished Service to His Country". There was a photo of Jack's father in his Mountie uniform in the middle of the plaque, "A Grateful Country Thanks You for Your Dedication to The Safety of Its Citizens". Jack ran his hand over his brow, collecting his emotions before looking up at Elizabeth and then back at the plaque. He tilted his head, "Where on earth….Elizabeth, where did you get this?" He shook his head in awe.

"Well, father helped me and we contacted some Mountie officials and they did research and determined that your father was due this recognition Jack. It's only ceremonial of course, but I thought it would look nice hanging on the wall in your office," she couldn't gauge his reaction, "do you like it?"

He ran his fingertips over the plaque, "Do I like it?" He shook his head, "Elizabeth, this is such a thoughtful, meaningful gift. Thank you so much," he kissed her lips softly, "Wait until I show my mother."

"Jack, I have one for her also," Elizabeth smiled.

Jack's mouth hung open, "How did I get so lucky? You are the sweetest most thoughtful person. Thank you," he put the plaque down and hugged her.

"Jack, our children will be fortunate to know that their father is a hero, and now they'll know that their grandfather was too, it's our legacy," Elizabeth touched his face.

Jack was speechless, he sat back on the sofa, "You always amaze me," he pulled her close, "and it's a good thing we're getting married because I would have to ask you all over again."

She snuggled against him, "You could ask me again, I don't mind."

He turned to her, "Elizabeth, will you marry me and make me the happiest man on earth?" He kissed her as she was about to answer and they smothered their laughter with several playful kisses. They sank into the cushions and she leaned against him placing her hand on his chest as he caressed her shoulder and kissed her forehead. After a moment, she moved onto his lap and they stared into each other's eyes.

"I love you Jack, I can't wait to be your wife." Jack leaned forward and kissed her sweetly, almost afraid to hold her, afraid of his emotions which were pulling him in different directions. Her blue eyes stared at him, inviting him yet keeping their protective innocent shield up. He loved her eyes, always so expressive and the way they looked at him at this moment, it was almost too much for him to handle. He ran his finger down her cheek and she leaned her face into his hand, taking it in hers and kissing his palm. Jack watched, running his tongue along his lip, wanting to hold her and kiss her but knowing he was possibly a kiss or two from laying her down on this sofa and touching her in ways that weren't appropriate. He looked away, took a deep breath and moved slightly.

At his movement, Elizabeth moved, "Am I hurting you?"

He grinned, "No, never…I could sit like this all night, but we really can't, not tonight."

"Soon we can," she whispered, glancing up at him through her lashes.

Jack sighed, "Yes…soon."

Elizabeth moved off his lap and stood.

"Hey, wait," Jack took her hand, kissed it and looked up at her, "I love you."

She touched his face, "I know," she smiled playfully.

Elizabeth placed Jack's silver box on her writing desk, "We'll let our two gifts get acquainted," she giggled. Jack smiled and took the plaque. They walked hand in hand back to town.

That night Elizabeth went to Abigail who was in the café kitchen alone, putting away the last of the dishes. "Thank you for helping me get Jack to the house today Abigail," Elizabeth said as she ran her hand over the tablecloth.

Abigail smiled, "Is something on your mind?"

"I could use a little advice," Elizabeth said hesitantly.

Abigail pulled a chair from under the table, "Have a seat and tell me what's on your mind."

"Jack and I had a nice time at the house…and things got a little…romantic," Elizabeth had her hands on the table, pulling on her fingers, "and I wondered if you could tell me…maybe a little guidance," she glanced up at Abigail.

Abigail smiled, "Yes...I'd be happy to. Because I know you two love each other, I want you to know things will be fine, but there are things you should know that will…that will make it …better. And I'm only willing to tell you because I want you to enjoy being a wife."

Elizabeth sat straighter, "Well, I've read a little, you know, Marco…"

Abigail smiled, "That's a start and while the fundamentals are probably there, the methods may be a little…off. But there are a few things I can share with you. First, remember men are very visual…"

The two ladies sat and talked for a while, Elizabeth listening intently as Abigail lovingly told her about being a wife.

The next day they all met at the church at the request of the Reverend. "Hello everyone, I've asked you all here so we can have a brief review of what to expect at the wedding," he looked at Jack, "so we know what we are supposed to do and not do."

Jack tugged his collar and looked away.

"Mr. Thatcher, please take your daughter to the entrance of the church and the ladies who will be Elizabeth's attendants follow along."

"Should I just stand here?" Jack asked.

The Reverend looked at him, "Where do you wish to stand Constable?"

"Here…right here is good," Jack shrugged.

Under direction, everyone did as the Reverend instructed. Jack was visibly uncomfortable, swaying from foot to foot. Bill leaned over, "You okay there Jack?"

Jack nodded.

Reverend Anderson asked, "Is something wrong Constable?"

"No…nothing is wrong, everything is…perfect," Jack waved his hand and tugged on his collar again.

Jack turned and saw Elizabeth on her father's arm and he felt calm, even when William gave him a stern look. The Reverend put his hand up, "Okay, we can stop here, everything after this you will do as I tell you to do. Does anyone have any questions?" He looked at Jack, "Constable?"

"No, I'm good," Jack tried to smile.

Elizabeth took Jack's hand, "Oh…" responding to the damp nervousness she felt holding it.

Jack winked at her, "I'm fine."

They all headed to the café for dinner. Elizabeth clung to Jack's arm, "Are you okay? You don't have to be nervous."

"It's the Reverend, he makes me nervous," Jack replied.

Elizabeth grinned, "Why?"

Jack shrugged, "I don't know…"

"Just concentrate on me, I don't make you nervous do I?"

Jack stopped and faced her, "You're my calming grace in all this."

At the café Elizabeth was admiring the decorations her students made, "Everything looks so beautiful, I'm so fortunate to have such wonderful students."

"They appreciate you as their teacher," Jack said.

Everyone had a nice quiet evening at the café. Elizabeth talked with her family and watched lovingly as Jack spent time with his mother, giving her the plaque and watching her reaction. Elizabeth walked over and hugged Jack's mother as the woman sobbed softly and thanked Elizabeth for the thoughtful gift.

As everyone began to leave, Jack asked Elizabeth to step outside.

"I guess I should be leaving…" Jack said as he held her hands.

"Get a good nights sleep?" she rocked on her feet.

"Yes," he tilted his head, "who am I kidding? I'll be happy to have a little sleep, but it will be worth it, because tomorrow is going to be the happiest day of my life."

She whispered, "Mine too."

"So I guess this will be the last time I kiss you as a single man," he stepped closer.

She smiled coyly, "and the very last time you'll be kissing a single woman."

"I better make it good then," he rubbed his hands together, took her in his arms and dipped her to the side before planting a big kiss on her lips, muffling her giggles.

She held on at his playful gesture and once upright, "Well, that was a good one!"

Jack grinned and nodded, proud of himself.

Elizabeth's voice got softer as she reached for his collar, "Now don't be nervous tomorrow."

He shook his head, "No, just happy," he raised her hand and kissed it, "and very happy to place another ring on this finger." He walked her to the door. "So, I'll say good night Miss Thatcher…for the last time," he pulled her close and whispered, "tomorrow night I won't have to leave you, you'll be all mine."

Elizabeth made a subtle sound of agreement.

Jack sensed the nervousness of her tone, "You just told me not to be nervous…"

Elizabeth's thoughts flashed to her talk with Abigail, and she touched Jack's face, "I won't be nervous, I promise," and she kissed him enticingly.

"Wow, are you going to kiss me like that as a married lady?"

"Oh yes and so much more," she squinted.

"Okay, now I have to leave," Jack raised his hand up behind his head and scratched his neck.

"Sleep well or at least try to," she gave him a quick kiss, "I love you, see you tomorrow at our wedding."

Jack grinned, "Sounds so good, our wedding. See you tomorrow my bride," he kissed her nose and began to walk away, stopped and looked back to see her standing there watching him. He sighed a contented sigh and went into the jail.

The next morning, her wedding day finally arrived and Elizabeth woke early, she hugged her pillow and said a silent prayer for a beautiful wedding day and a romantic evening, smiling thinking maybe she shouldn't be praying for that, then she got out of bed and went to the window.

Julie came bounding into the room, humming the wedding march, a white petticoat on her head. Elizabeth laughed and shook her head, "You'll make a beautiful bride one day, but I hope you have a nicer veil."

"I will and what are you doing? Looking out the window for your groom? You're not supposed to see him before the wedding, it's bad luck," Julie scolded.

"I was just looking…at the weather," Elizabeth smiled, glancing up at the sky through her window.

Later at the jail, Jack bathed and shaved. He felt calm and relaxed, ready to marry his sweet Elizabeth, looking in the mirror he quipped, "Glad you didn't nick yourself Thornton," and then he proceeded to get dressed.

Bill was in the jail, fixing his tie in the mirror when Jack came out from the back room. He smiled, turned, "Big day finally here….Jack, what's wrong?"