Chapter 10

"Elizabeth, I say this again not because I don't trust you, but because I can get into trouble if I share information about an ongoing investigation. I want to talk to you about it because I want your opinion. I think you could help, but since you are not a police officer, I can get in trouble."

"I understand, Jack. Thanks for trusting in me and for wanting my opinion." She wasn't used to her boyfriend wanting her thoughts. This was new to her, but she liked it a lot. It made her feel valued. She also understood the sensitive nature of Jack's concern about sharing information he wasn't suppose too.

"I think that is why Henry's homework assignment was at the crime scene. I believe his father accidently took Henry's paper and left it at the scene."

"Are these two people involved in the robberies?"

"I think so, but I don't have enough proof yet. Things are pointing that way."

"His dad always seemed a little weird when he would visit the school."

"How so?"

"Well, when he wasn't asking me out, he always talked about luck."

"Wait, he asked you out?"

"Yes, a few times but I never would have dated him."

Jack smiled and squeezed her hand. He was grateful she wouldn't date someone with a checkered past.

"What did you say about luck?"

"That was the weird thing. He always mentioned how lucky he is. He always stated how luck was always on his side and he would get away with things."

"Interesting." Jack remembered the ace of clubs and its meaning.

She could see his mind working. "Did something happen?"

"Just something you said concerning luck. It reminded me of a piece of evidence."

"May I ask what it is?"

Jack hesitated for a few moments trying to think if he should. "I'm sorry. Nani. I really can't share that part yet. I am not trying to hide something from you, but I just can't share everything."

"Jack, I trust you and understand you are limited in sharing things in an open investigation."

Jack was relieved she understood. He sighed.

"What was that sigh for?"

"I was afraid you thought I was intentionally hiding things from you and not wanting to share. I didn't want you to think that, but I just can't share everything."

"Jack, I trust you. I know you value my thoughts."

"Thanks for understanding. Why don't we go and eat dinner?"

…

As they walked through town, they enjoyed the slow stroll looking into the different windows of the local stores and the physical contact of holding hands. Elizabeth stopped at one of the stores when she noticed a unique jewelry box. "Jack, look at that. That's so different."

"Wow Beautiful. It is so different. Is it a jewelry box?"

"I think so. Let's take a look at it."

They walked into the shop, and she was immediately recognized by the owner. "Elizabeth, it's great to see you." A tall, black headed man walked up and gave her a hug.

"Victor, it's great to see you. How are you?"

"I'm doing well."

Jack stepped up when Elizabeth introduced him. "Victor, this is my boyfriend, Jack Thorton."

"You mean finally someone captured that heart of yours?"

She blushed at his words. "Jack, this is Victor. His wife, Alice and I work at the school together."

"Alice? She works in the cafeteria, right?" Asked Jack.

"Yes. Wait…Is this the famous Jack, the investigator who is in town helping Chief Avery?"

"The famous." Asked both Jack and Elizabeth.

"My wife thinks the world of you."

"Your wife is very kind."

So, you two are dating? That is great. I wish you the best."

"Thank you" They both said together.

The couple walked around the store looking at all the items that was displayed. "He has a lot of cool things in here." Jack stated.

"He does. It's all very nice."

As they were about to walk out of the store, a young man came from the back and noticed Jack. "Hey Investigator Thorton. It's great to see you again."
'

"Hello again John. Are you still doing well?"

"Yes. Just working."

They smiled at each other as they said their goodbyes.

"How do you know him?"

"I came by earlier today asking a couple of questions. It's why I couldn't text you earlier."

She smiled at him but didn't push the issue. She knew he couldn't talk about it. She didn't feel that he was hiding things because he did share what he could. She understood the just couldn't tell her everything.

…

As they walked up to the door of Abagail's, Max opened the door to walk out. "Jack!" She exclaimed with a surprised but excited voice.

"Hello Max. How are you? Do you know my girlfriend, Elizabeth Thatcher?"

Elizabeth knew this woman and her reputation of chasing men. Jack was exactly her type, handsome, funny, smart, and especially handsome. However, she was instantly put at ease when Jack immediately introduced her as his girlfriend. Could he be any more different that Charles? She realized she had no reason to be jealous.

"I know of her, but not personally. Hello Elizabeth, my name is Max."

"It's great to meet you."

"Are you two going in for dinner?"

"Yes. We are. I'm lucky in that Belle agreed to eat dinner with me."

"Belle? You know French?"

Jack laughed. "No Max. I don't. Just that one word."

"Oh. Well, have a nice dinner and a great evening."

When they sat down at their table, Elizabeth leaned in and said "Belle. Let me guess, it means beautiful?"

Jack's shy grin answered the question for her.

"Jack, how many languages do you know?"

"Well, I know a little English, but that's it."

She had a confused look. "Jack, you have called me Bella, Belle, Nani, and Hermosa. That's Latin, French, Hawaiian, and Spanish."

"I just know those words in those languages. I don't know any other words."

"So, let me get this right. You learned the word beautiful in each of those languages just for me?"

Jack's face immediately went red. He looked down and avoided eye contact with her. He wanted her to feel special, but he didn't want to come across as inappropriate.

"Jack. Did you?" She pushed a little.

Without looking at her, he nodded.

"Jack, what's wrong?"

"I don't want to come across as creepy, but yes, I did learn those words just to make you feel special. I wanted you to know how important you are to me. I'm sorry if you think it's weird. I'll stop doing it. I warned you I'm inexperienced at this dating thing. I'm sorry I'm doing it all wrong."

"Jack! Jack! No Jack!"

"I'm rambling again aren't I. I'm sorry."

"Jack, can I talk now." She sassed with a smile on her face. He smiled and she continued. "I think it's very sweet and you better not stop doing that. I would be very disappointed. I can't believe you would do that just for me."

"You…you don't think it's creepy?"

"Absolutely not. It's the most romantic thing I have ever had done for me. I love it and it surprises me with each new name. You better not stop doing that!" She gave him her scary teacher face.

"I promise." He said as he laughed at her scary teacher face. "You look adorable when you do that."

"Do what?"

"That scary teacher face thing."

She tried to glare at him but couldn't because of the smile on his face. She was quickly falling for this man in ways she never experienced before now. Under different circumstances, she would have been a little worried with the speed and depth of her feelings forming for Jack. She couldn't think of any reason to try to slow things down. He was considerate of her in all ways. He was kind, compassionate, and smart. He wanted to hear her voice on matters, and she was grateful for his kindness.

Elizabeth found herself comparing Jack to Charles. In all honesty, there wasn't a comparison. Jack was by far better between the two. Charles was selfish and only did things that he wanted to do. Jack always put her first. He was considerate and always thought of her. He pushed for her opinion and listened to when she gave it. She committed herself at that moment to quit comparing the two. Jack was better and he didn't deserve to be compared to an ex-boyfriend.

"Jack, I am glad you came to Hope Valley." Her seriousness caught him off guard.

"Are you ok Belle?"

"I was just thinking about you and what you mean to me. You have quickly become an important person in my life, and I wouldn't want to change that for anything."

Her words of kindness were sincere and touched his heart. A tear formed in his eyes but did not fall to his cheek. He reached over and took her hand into his and rubbed his thumb across her hand. Then he lifted her hand and placed his lips on the back of her hand. His touch was so gentle she could barely feel the touch, but the touch ran through her entire body like a bolt of lightning. His touch set her on fire like never before. The only thought was how could she get him to do it again.

"Belle, I lo…" Mary cut him off when she walked up to the table to take their order.

Elizabeth heard what he started to say and was hoping she wasn't wrong. Then she thought maybe it was too soon, way too soon. But it was how she felt too. Her mind was telling her to slow down and take time, but her heart was already committed to this man.

"Elizabeth, do you know what you want to eat?"

"What?"

"Elizabeth. Are you ok?" Asked Mary.

"Oh. Yeah. I'll take a shepherd's pie."

Mary smiled at her knowing that was her second favorite dish behind the chicken breast. "I'll get this in, and food should be out quickly.

Jack noticed Elizabeth's change in behavior and was afraid he overstepped when he almost told her he loved her. He wanted to tell her because that was how he felt, but he was afraid he pushed too far. She remained quieter than normal during their meal. His phone buzzed before they paid the bill. He apologized to Elizabeth and took the phone call.

She noticed the immediate change in his behavior. He looked into her eyes as he listened to the person on the other side of the phone. Without saying a word, he ended the call while standing up. He leaned down to her and whispered in her ear, "Belle, there is a robbery in progress just down the street. Please stay here until it's safe. I've gotta go."

With that, he kissed the top of her head and ran out the café. She immediately became nervous when he ran out of Abagail's.

"What's going on?" Abagail asked as she approached Elizabeth's table.

"There's a robbery in progress and Jack is responding. Evidently it is close by. He said to stay here until it's safe." Both ladies shared a worried expression. This is the first time in their short relationship that Elizabeth was reminded that Jack's job could be dangerous. She offered a short, silent prayer. When she said amen, she heard something that stopped her heart and breath.

…

Tom and Julie spent the day looking around Hope Valley for jobs and housing. They found a few places that would work for housing, but they would have to wait for employment. They found a couple of places to call tomorrow concerning jobs. There were potential and they were excited for that.

"Julie, when are you wanting to get married?"

"I don't want a long engagement. I would say within a few months."

Tom smiled his agreement. "Are you sure you're ok with moving here?"

"Yes. Excited even. We found some housing that would work, we just need to find jobs that would pay enough for us to make a life together."

"The area is small, but there is also potential here. I don't think we will have a problem with jobs. We just need to be patient."

"Sweetie, patience is not my strongest trait."

"Nor is it mine, but I will do anything for you, Julie."

"Tom, I love you."

"I love you too Julie. Let's go back to the hotel room and you can come to my room and we will watch a movie. Does that sound good?"

"A perfect way to end a great day."

…

Abagail looked at Elizabeth and both ladies had a terrified look on their faces. "Did you hear that?" Asked Elizabeth. That sounded like…" They heard it again. This time, three quick shots. "That was gun shots!" Exclaimed Elizabeth. "Jack!" She screamed.

Abagail grabbed Elizabeth in a bear hug trying to keep her from running outside. She didn't know where to go, but she was going to find Jack. "My dear, you can't go outside. It isn't safe."

Elizabeth gave her a death stare. She didn't know what to do, but she had to find Jack. She had to know he was safe and ok. "I've got to go find him!"

"Elizabeth, you don't know where he is, and it isn't safe out there. You need to let him do his job. He asked you to stay here to be safe."

Elizabeth didn't say anything. She stared at Abagail trying to process everything. Sirens broke their staring contest and Elizabeth broke free from Abagail's grasp. She ran out of the café and followed the police car down the road.

She ran as fast as she could. Her heart was racing not because of her running for three blocks, but because she was worried. She turned the corner and saw the police car in front of her friends shop that her and Jack was just at about an hour or so ago.

She slowed down to a walk then stood still as she saw Jack walk out of the store. She inhaled a sharp breath and took off running again yelling his name the whole way. Jack looked up when he heard her and opened his arms when she was about to him. She hit him so hard it knocked him over. She landed on top of him and wrapped him in her arms so tight he couldn't breathe. After a few moments, his lungs demanded air. "Sweetheart. I can't breathe."

She did not release her grip on him. She squeezed even more than before. "Bella, I can't breathe."

She looked at him and instantly thought he was hurt. "Are you shot? Where are you hurting? What can I do?"

"First, you need to let me go so I can breathe. You are hugging me too tight. I can't breathe."

His words finally registered, and she released her grip a little, but she refused to let him go.

"Bella, I am fine. I promise."

She looked at him confused. "But you said you couldn't breathe."

"Yes, because you were hugging me too tight." He chuckled.

"Oh, I'm sorry." Then she started to release her hold on him.

"Please don't let go." He begged. "Just not so tight."

She kept looking at him trying to read his facial feature. He looked fine, but she wasn't certain. He looked deeply into her beautiful blue eyes and reached and touched her cheeks with his fingertips. He drew her in with his touch and she looked into his eyes. They had an entire conversation laying on the sidewalk without saying a word. She finally realized he was fine.

"Jack, I was so worried. I thought something happened to you. I was so scared." Now it was her turn to speak so fast he was having trouble understanding her.

"Bella! Bella!" He raised his voice trying to get her attention. "I am fine. I'm not hurt at all. The robbers got away but they did fire at me when I was in the store. But I am not hit. I don't even have a scratch."

She stared at him in disbelief for a moment. Her mind was unable to process the information. "Jack." He cut her off with a soft kiss on her nose. Then he kissed her cheek. Then he placed a soft, meaningful kiss on her lips. That calmed her down. She smiled at him, and he knew she was going to be ok.

"Bella, I love having you in my arms and I am not complaining at all. However, I think we may need to get off the concrete."

"Oh, right." She started to get up, but he grabbed her hand. "But please don't let go." He pleaded.

Once they stood, Chief Avery came over and started to question Jack. "Sir, could you give me a moment please." Bill looked at the both of them and said, "You have two minutes."

After he walked away, Jack gave Elizabeth his full attention. "Nani, I have to answer questions concerning what happened. I am not allowed to leave the scene until I do since I fired my weapon."

"Wait, you were carrying a weapon." She asked confused.

"Yes, Nani, I was. I am a police officer. It is a requirement. Law says once a police officer fires their weapon, he or she is not allowed to leave until they are fully questioned. This keeps their memory about the shooting fresh in their minds. I must stay here until they are finished questioning me. Would you please stay with me?"

"Is that allowed?"

"I'm not sure, but I would like for you to stay. Please." His voice was so sincere. She melted when he said it. It was as if he was begging for her to stay because he needed her there. "I draw strength from you. Would you stay with me?"

Her face changed from fear to one of strength. She didn't answer his question. She reached for his hand and wrapped her fingers with his. She didn't have to use words to give him an answer. She said it with her eyes. "Great. Let's get this done." He stated.

Chief Avery walked over and asked Jack if he was ready to talk. He nodded his head and walked over to Bill's car. Elizabeth didn't let go of his hand. "Jack, I need to ask you some questions. Elizabeth, would you please excuse us for a few minutes?"

"Chief, she stays with me." His voice was determined, not disrespectful and Bill sensed that.

Bill looked in Elizabeth's direction and saw the determination in her face. He knew he wasn't going to win this argument. "Fine, Jack. But she has to let go of your hand."

Reluctantly she let go of his hand but did not move from his side. She placed her right hand on his back to let him know she was there for support.

"Ok Jack. What do you know?"

"I was eating dinner at Abagail's with Elizabeth when I got the call of a robbery in progress. I was just a few blocks away. I came to the front door and saw the door opened. It looked like it was forced open. I pulled my weapon."

"I can't believe you had a weapon?" Asked a shocked Elizabeth.

Bill just stared at her. "I'm sorry." Elizabeth apologized.

"I pulled my weapon and slowly walked in. As soon as I was inside the store I turned left to be behind the display for protection. After I heard two men talking, I realized they were in the back room behind the counter. I had plenty of cover. So, I stayed low and on the left side. I came to the front of the counter and stayed there for a moment. I was trying to hear where they were exactly before I exposed myself."

"That was very smart Jack." Stated Bill as he made notes in the notebook. Bill noticed that Elizabeth had Jack's hand in his but knew he could not make her let him go.

"When I realized both were to my right, I slide to the right side of the counter. I was hoping they would not be able to see me from there. When I slide over, I did not see whatever it was I knocked over. When it hit the floor, it made a sound. That is when they shot in my direction."

Elizabeth gripped his hand tighter. Jack winced a little at her action.

"They shot in my direction but wasn't close to hitting me. They were a good ten feet off the mark. When they shot, I laid down on my belly so they wouldn't have a good target. I inched over to the opening of the counter and saw a shadow of one of the suspects. I aimed three feet right of the shadow and fired two times. I do not know if I hit him or not. That is when they ran out the back door. I approached the door slowly and realized they ran down the alleyway and was gone. I didn't see them at all. I just heard their voice."

Bill nodded his head as he took the notes. He did not question Jack. He wanted his point of view and then they would compare it with the evidence to see what all happened and if he was forgetting something. "Jack is there anything else?"

"No Bill. There isn't. It only lasted about two or three minutes."

"Please wait here for a few minutes, ok? This police officer will stay with you until I come back."

After he left, Elizabeth leaned in and whispered in Jack's ear, "Is it necessarily for a police officer to accompany you?"

"Yes, it's protocol. It's his job to guard me while my story is check out with the evidence in the crime scene."

She nodded her head and leaned into his shoulder. No words were spoken between them while they waited. They gained strength from each other.

Twenty minutes passed and Bill walked over. "Everything checks out Jack. They missed you from your location by about fifteen feet. It was a small garden gnome you knocked over when you went to the right side of the counter. It was an ugly thing, I'm grateful you broke it." He laughed at the last part. "Jack, carefully read over the notes I made and if you agree with them, please sign them. Take your time in reading them and make sure they are correct. Understand?"

"Yes sir."

"Once you're done reading, you are free to go. You can pick up your weapon tomorrow morning when you come in at eight."

Jack nodded. "Oh Bill, I have some information on the pictures we were looking at earlier."

"That's great Jack, but it will hold till tomorrow. Take your time here and I will see you in the morning."

"Why is he reminding you to take your time in reading his notes."

"Those notes are very important. If this goes to court in any way, those notes, with my signature, will be a key piece of evidence. It is vital they are correct and when I sign my name, I am stating they are accurate. That's why it is important. If there is a difference between the notes and the crime scene, I could be if trouble. The defense will use the differences against me in court."

"Oh, I should leave you alone while you read them." She stated but didn't let go of his hand.

"Elizabeth, please stay with me. After I read his notes, would you read them to see if I missed something?"

"Jack, I don't know if that is proper."

"I am allowed to have anyone look at these notes with me. It's the law. I choose you. You are an intelligent person whom I trust. You were paying attention to every word I said. You would know if I was missing something. I trust you, Bella."

She smirked at him with a grin he hasn't seen before. That got his attention quickly. "Only if you tell me the next nickname you have for me."

"The next nickname?" He asked playing her game.

"Don't act like you don't know what I'm talking about Investigator Thorton! Spill it mister!"

"You like that?" Jack stated with a little surprise in his voice. He enjoyed coming up with the nick names and she seemed to like it, but he didn't think she loved it.

"More than you know. Now, out with it, Investigator Thorton."

"Ok Bellissima, let's get this over with."

"Bellissima" she whispered. "What language is that?

"Italian"

"I like it. That is my second favorite so far."

"Really. What's your favorite?"

She looked at him with that same grin from a few seconds earlier. "Read mister."