Chapter 36

Elizabeth was holding onto Jack with every ounce of strength she had. Her arms were wrapped around his neck with her head resting on his shoulder. Her legs were wrapped around his waist and her ankles were hooked around his lower back. She was squeezing him with all of her might trying to get him closer. She was breathing in his scent trying to remember everything at the moment, but her brain wasn't engaging. She was just so excited to have him home and having the ability to touch him.

She was so wrapped up with Jack's presence she didn't notice the students giggling or the two teachers standing at her door because they became concerned when they heard her scream. Her only thought was the man holding her. Finally, her brain kicked in and she realized the position she was in and where she was. Then she heard the giggling from her students.

Very slowly she released her ankles from behind Jack and slide down to the ground. Then she released her bear hug on his neck. She didn't let go of him completely, but she moved back far enough to see his face, his handsome face. She looked into his eyes. He saw the love she had for him in her eyes, and she saw the same in his. Then she turned her head and noticed her students staring and laughing. Her face growing red by the second. "Oh, maybe I should let you go." She whispered to Jack. He immediately frowned at her words. He had missed this and now he had to let her go as soon as he had her in his arms again. How is that fair?

She released her arms completely from him but held onto his hand. She wasn't willing to let go of Jack. She had missed him the past few days and was unwilling to lose the contact. She stood beside Jack and addressed the class. "Class, many of you know Detective Jack Thorton. Jack, these are my students." Jack gave them an embarrassed smile and wave. The girls were moved by how handsome he is, and the boys immediately liked him because he was a detective. "Jack has been gone for a few days and I missed him. I am sorry I screamed when I saw him. I missed him a lot while he was gone."

Emily, who sat in front of the class, smiled "It's ok Ms. Thatcher. We understand you missed him."

Elizabeth was embarrassed, and a little shocked, by her actions, but she didn't really care. Jack was home. "Thank you class for understanding."

"Ms. Thatcher," Jack started. "In honor of my coming home, I have cupcakes and juice boxes for everyone. I hope that is ok?"

She smiled at Jack. First, she didn't know how he felt about uprooting and moving to a new town. She was pleased he used the word "home". Second, she was grateful he thought enough to bring cupcakes and juice boxes to her class for her students. "That's perfect Jack. I don't think I can teach at this moment."

She looked up at the excitement of her students when they heard about the cupcakes and the juice boxes. Then she noticed the two teachers standing in her doorway. Susan was another fifth grade teacher who was a good coworker. Then there was Jackson who was a fourth grade teacher. She smiled at them and told them everything was fine. They smile at her and then turned to each other and smile. They have heard of Jack but never met him. They exited to head back to their students and classrooms laughing under their breath at the scene.

The last two classes the students enjoyed free time. They ate all the cupcakes and drank all the juice boxes Jack brought. Each student had two of each and enjoyed their impromptu time off from their studies. Elizabeth enjoyed watching Jack interact with her students, but she wouldn't let him be too far from her. They were constantly side by side and would gently steal brief, intimate touches. Jack would place his hand on her back as he walked by her. Elizabeth would touch his arm and give him a subtle wink. They were grateful they had the ability to communicate with just their eyes.

…

Abagail was preparing a meal for Jack and Elizabeth. Charlette has stopped by to steal a bite of food. After a long hug, Charlette told Abagail about them arriving a few minutes ago and she dropped Jack off at the school. Abagail texted Elizabeth to let her know to stop by after work to pick up their to go meal. She knew they would want to spend time together. She also called Frank to see if he could get Charlette some help to unload the truck so Charlette and Jack wouldn't have to worry about it. Frank was happy to help and had several people interested in helping unload the truck at the storage place. Elizabeth was loved by so many people in Hope Valley.

…

Tom and Julie walked out of their jobs excited the day was over. They had planned on a date, and they were excited for it. However, that wasn't what was making them excited. They were getting more excited about moving to Hope Valley and beginning their life together.

"Is there anything special you want to do tonight?"

Julie thought of about it for a few minutes. "Honestly?"

"Yes Julie. Honestly."

"I want to go home and pack. I am ready to head to Hope Valley. We can pack, order a pizza and listen to music while we box up our apartments. The faster we get this done, the faster we can get started."

Tom let out a loud laugh. "That sounds perfect."

"You're not upset?"

"Julie, I was hoping you would say that. I am ready to leave too."

"We head back to Hope Valley for the wedding on Wednesday. We head back here on Sunday. Then officially leave our jobs on Friday and head out on the following Monday."

"Yes."

"If we are ready, do you think we can leave after work on Friday and begin our trip back to Hope Valley?"

"I'll call the moving truck to reschedule pick up."

She smiled at him loving the excitement he had was matching her excitement.

…

To Charlette's surprise, Frank showed up at the storage place with fifteen people willing to help unload.

"Frank, how in the world did you get this many volunteers?"

"Elizabeth is a loved person. They were happy to help unload the truck."

Charlette was touched with the love these people had for Elizabeth. While unloading, she was even more surprised when many of the people were talking so well of Jack. In his short time in Hope Valley, many people were already beginning to like and respect Jack.

"Thank you, Frank. This will take a lot off of Jack."

"I'm sure." He laughed. "He has someone already occupying all of his mind."

Charlette lightly tapped Frank of the arm. "What a thing to say." She shook her head.

"Am I wrong?"

She smiled and shook her head again. "Absolutely not!"

…

Finally, the school was dismissed for the day and all of the students were taken to the bus pick up or parent pick up. She and Jack were walking down the hallway excited to be alone in her classroom. They haven't had a second of time alone for a couple of hours and it was driving them crazy. While kissing in the classroom isn't proper, they just didn't care. They walked with their pinky fingers holding each other. Holding hands would not be a great idea with other students around. However, this intimate, small touch was only driving their desire for one another to a whole new level. How can holding his pinky make my toes tingle?

When they walked into her classroom, Jack followed Elizabeth in and stole a glance of her hips swaying. When he looked up, she was standing in front of him and wrapped him into a wanting hug and her lips crashed on his. She pushed him a step back at first and he used his right foot to kick the door close. She pushed him up against the closed door and they stayed there until their lungs demanded air. Not wanting to lose contact with each other, she placed her forehead against his and he tightened the hug. The sorrow of being away from each other for days was just washed away in their embrace. They both needed this. They missed each other.

"Jack…I missed you. Please tell me we won't be away from each other any time soon."

"I won't have to travel very much with this job."

"Thank goodness."

And with that, she looked at his lips and then she glanced toward his eyes. The things she saw in his eyes excited her. She he has officially moved to Hope Valley, their desire for each other only grew. She looked back to his lips, and she captured his lips once more. Jack placed his hands on her hips and tried to pull her even closer.

When he pulled away, he started lovingly at her. "Nani, will you please dance with me?"

She gasped at his nickname. Yes, he used it during their phone calls and text, but it was different when she was face to face with him looking at his dimples and smelling his cologne.

"Jack, we don't have any music."

"Nani, what did I say about dancing?"

"People who are truly in love with each other do not need music." She flirted.

"Music helps, but it is not necessary."

With that, he moved her away from the door and beside her desk. He placed his right hand into her left hand and moved his left hand to the small of her back. Gently, but with purpose, he pulled her to him until they were completely touching. They swayed and they had a goofy smile on their faces while looking into each other's eyes.

They were in her classroom, but they didn't care. After days apart, they were finally in each other's arms. Both of them were relishing the fact they were holding each other. Her perfume was intoxicating, and he loved the smell of her shampoo. Jack was quickly losing his ability to think.

"Elizabeth" Jack spoke after a couple of minutes of dancing. "Can we pick up some food somewhere and go home and cuddle on the couch?"

She swooned when he said home. She knew exactly where he meant.

"After another kiss, we can go. Abagail has food for…"

Jack cut her off when his lips connected with her lips. Her touch, her scent, her lips consumed him, and he knew he would never get tired of this precious woman.

After separating, Jack helped gather the trash from the improvised party and Elizabeth's belongings. He carried the large trash bag out to the dumpster while Elizabeth waited on him at her car.

Walking to her, he felt his phone buzz and noticed his mother sent a picture of all the people helping unload the truck with the message "We will be done in about twenty minutes. I will see you tomorrow."

Elizabeth noticed his smile and wondered who sent him the text. He showed her after walking up to her and she smiled even bigger. That meant they didn't have to worry about it and could spend more time together. She made a mental note to send thank you cards to everyone who helped.

…

After finishing up and cleaning out the truck except for the few bags Jack was taking to Abagail's apartment, Charlette thanked each person with a smile and handshake. She was so grateful to each person who helped. She offered to take them for ice cream, but they all refused. They were just grateful to help. When she approached the second to last person, something happened when their hands meet.

She was startled when her finger tips tingled. That hasn't happened since her Thomas. She looked up into the man's face and her breath didn't reach her lungs. He was just taller than her with the most beautiful gray eyes. His hair was salt and pepper and reached his collar of his shirt. The top of his hair was a little longer but combed nicely. He was about her age and was in good physical shape.

She scolded herself for thinking that last part, but she did not let go of his hand. She hasn't noticed anyone this way in almost two decades. She noticed the look on his face and in his eyes. He was looking at her the same way she was looking at him. She also noticed a little bit of embarrassment and intrigue. He smiled at her, and she giggled. She never remembered if she has giggled before. The gentleman standing in front of her still holding her hand gave a small laugh. Charlette thought it was the best sound she has heard in a very long time.

"I'm sorry," Charlette began.

The man lightly tightened his grip on her right hand and introduced himself. "Hello, my name is Adam Richardson."

Charlette finally responded. "Hello. My name is Charlette Thorton."

Adam was wanting to say something, but he couldn't think of anything to say. He was taken back by this woman. She was beautiful and he could see a strength in her eyes. Her eyes had him captivated. Finally thinking of something to say, he stated, "Hi."

She laughed at him, and he thought her laugh was a great sound. She responded, "Hi."

Again, they looked at each other before Frank cleared his throat and that broke their connection. Frank saw the instant connection between Jack's mother and Adam. He smiled knowing this could be interesting. Before Adam released Charlette's hand, he squeezed it gently and slowly slide his hand out of her hand. She saw the sadness in his expression when they lost contact. Much to her surprise, she was sad too.

Charlette moved on to the last person standing but kept looking to her left to see Adam. He had captured her attention.

…

After stopping by Abagail's to pick up the food and saying hi to her, Jack and Elizabeth pulled up to their future apartment together. Jack was able to carry everything from the car except for her purse. When he placed the last item from the car on the kitchen table, she was waiting with her arms open for him to step into her space. He did so gladly and once he embraced her, he picked her up and twirled her around twice before placing her down and claimed her lips. The kiss in the classroom was nice, but it wasn't passion filled like this kiss. It just wasn't proper, but know in the privacy of their future home, there was no holding back.

Jack gently backed her up to the wall and she gasped when her back hit the wall. With her gasp, he pushed his body against her and moaned. The vibration of his moan lit Elizabeth on fire. While this was a different experience for Elizabeth, she welcomed it completely. She intertwined her fingers in the hair on the back of his head and pulled him even closer to her deepening the kiss. They lost all knowledge of time. They were making up for lost time.

Elizabeth's phone buzzed but she was unwilling to let Jack go to answer it. It did break the kiss but not the physical contact.

"I'll answer it later."

"What if it's important?"

"What's more important than this?" With that, she initiated another passionate kiss.

…

Charlette stepped into the moving truck to take it to the closest rental return. Frank followed so she would have a ride home. Frank and Abagail were gracious enough to let her stay in their home in the spare room so she wouldn't have to pay for a hotel.

After sitting behind the wheel, she took a few moments to catch her breath and her thoughts. This feeling she was experiencing was new to her. Since Tom died, she hasn't felt this way until now. "Who was that guy?" She mentioned to herself. She finally had the ability to start the diesel truck and put it in gear.

Once at the rental return, she turned in the keys and walked to Franks car. Frank smiled at her when he noticed her face was still a little red.

After she sat in his car and fastened her seat belt, Frank began. "His name is Adam Richarson. He moved here about five years ago when he retired. He was a school teacher. He taught high school history. He tried grade school, but he was a little…well, let's say he was a little honest and blunt for kids, but he fit in great with the teenagers. He is a faithful member of the church. His wife passed away fifteen years ago from cancer."

"Why are you telling me this?" She asked.

Frank ignored her question. "He has three children. Two boys and a girl. The boys are twins. I'm not sure of their ages, but I think the boys are around Jack's age and the girl is a couple of years younger. He hasn't dated anyone that I know of."

Charlette was taking in all the information Frank was sharing with her.

"He volunteers with the teen group at church. They love him. He cares for the teens and they know it. He is pretty active with them. He takes them out to ball games and a couple of camping trips a year. He takes them fishing and hiking at times. He attends their sporting events to encourage them. Many of the teens don't have parents that care. So, Adam steps up and is a cheerleader for them. He also volunteers to help people with home repairs. He is pretty handy and they appreciate it."

"He sounds impressive."

"Oh, he is. What do you think of him?" He sassed.

"I just meet him. I don't know him except what you told me."

"True. But I did see how you two looked at each other."

"And how did we look at each other?" She sassed back.

"A little like Jack and Elizabeth did when they first were getting to know each other."

"Come on Frank. Let's be serious. I'm too old for that."

"Nonsense. You are not too old. Abagail and I meet later in life. It is never too late."

"I'm not looking for love, Frank. I've had my once in a lifetime love."

"Jack wasn't looking for love either. Sometimes love finds us. You loved Tom very much and that is great. But Charlette you are not dead. It is possible for you to love again if you will allow yourself."

"Frank, why are we talking like this?"

"I saw how you two looked at each other. I thought you would like to know about Adam."

The remainder of the drive was done in silence. She had to admit that she was intrigued by the things Frank told her. Could she really be interested in another person? To be honest, she already was. This guy did something to her, but she wasn't sure she was willing to admit it yet. First, could she move on from Tom? She never thought she could. Second, what would her sons think? Would they be open to her dating someone?"

…

Elizabeth and Jack sat on the couch to eat and watch a movie. Jack would lightly rub his thumb across the back of her hand. She would use her other hand to rub the forearm of his other arm. They spent the time catching up on each other since he was away. Nothing earth shattering, but the cute everyday things. They both enjoyed this time together. It was a way for them to reconnect and to learn more about each other. She shared about the classes project that went well. He shared about ending his cases and giving a lot of his stuff to charity.

It didn't take Jack long to start yawning. She didn't want to, but it was a long night and day for him, and he needed rest. Sleeping in the truck while his mom drove wasn't very restful.

"Jack, why don't we head to bed? You must be exhausted."

"That sounds great."

They both cleaned up their dishes and turned the TV off and the lights. Elizabeth walked into the bathroom to dress for the night and Jack laid down on the bed to wait his turn. When Elizabeth walked out of the bathroom, she noticed Jack was laying down on the bed asleep. She stared at him for a few minutes. He was so relaxed. He looked comfortable even though he was still fully dressed.

She walked over and took his shoes off and lifted his feet onto the bed and under the sheet. She walked around to the other side of the bed and cuddled up against him. She laid her head on his chest and placed her arm on his stomach. In his sleep, he reached around and placed his hand around her back and on her side. She thought it was a great gesture since he was so tired. She smiled knowing in a few days this was how their life will be every day.

…

Abagail, Frank, and Henry escorted Charlette to her new bedroom for a few days. It didn't take long for Charlette to get settled because of the trip. Henry went to bed and Abagail and Frank stepped outside and sat on the porch with a cup of hot tea. They enjoyed sitting out at night and enjoy the stars and sounds of the night.

"You will not believe what happened today." Frank began with surprise in his voice.

"What? You have a secret and you're holding out on me!"

"I'm not holding out. It just happened a couple of hours ago."

"A couple of hours ago? You were unloading Jack's moving truck a couple of hours ago. What could have happened?"

"Do you remember Adam Richardson?"

"Sure. He's a nice man who works with the teens at church. He has lived here for a few years. He is very friendly. I don't know him too well, but we do talk when he comes into the café and at church."

"Well, you're not going to believe it."

"Ok…what am I not going to believe."

"Well…remember when Jack and Elizabeth started dating and how they would look at each other?"

"Sure. They were like love sick little puppies who were scared of each other."

"Yeah, I saw that expression today with a couple that is a little older."

"Really…who?"

Frank smiled at his wife's enthusiasm. Abagail wasn't one for gossip, but she loved talking to a small group of friends. He purposefully waited to build Abagail's anticipation.

"Listen, Reverend Hogan. You can't begin this story without telling me all of it. So, spill it pastor!"

"Adam Richardson and Charlette Thorton."

Abagail gasped. "You don't say? Are you pulling my leg?"

"No. It was so cute to see both of them making giggly eyes at each other. You could see the intrigue and hesitation on their faces. They were certainly interested with each other but too scared to do anything about it."

Abagail thought for a moment, "You know, they would make a nice couple."

"I agree."

"So, how are we going to get this started?"

"We…oh no! We are not going to do anything. They will find their own way in this. You are not going to interfere with them."

"Oh, Frank. Don't you realize how good I am at this." She sassed him with a wink.

"No…no you're not."

"Elizabeth and Jack are together. Are you saying I didn't have anything to do with that?"

"They are together in spite of you. I remember when he didn't like Ms. Thatcher and you were trying to set him up with Elizabeth. That almost blew up in your face."

"Frank…Frank…we don't live in a world of almosts. Now, they are getting married very soon."

"Please, sweetheart. Let them find their own way."

"I will light the path for them."

"Why do all women think they are great at fixing people up."

She laughed when she swatted his left arm.

…

Jack woke up from the best night's sleep he has had in quite a while. It took him a couple of moments to realize where he was. He noticed the two paintings from their first date on the wall. Then he noticed her smell. He loved her smell. He tightened his grip of her. She backed into him and settled in without opening her eyes. He smiled knowing how she was in the mornings and that would be a point of contention at some time in their marriage. Jack took a few moments to snuggle his face in Elizabeth's hair. He loved the way it felt and smelled.

Slowly, he pulled the hair away from her neck and began to lightly kiss her neck. A little of her shoulder was exposed and he took advantage and lightly kissed the part of her shoulder that was revealed. Then he worked his way back up to her neck and to the area just below her earlobe.

"Don't you dare, detective." Elizabeth warned him.

"I didn't know you were awake. Your alarm clock hasn't gone off yet."

"You were kissing my neck and shoulder. How could I sleep through that?"

"I love the way you smell and taste." He slowly exhaled. "I thought you liked it when I nibble and kiss your earlobe?"

"That's the problem. I like it too much." She said blushing.

"I will have to remember that." He proclaimed with a smirk.

"Friday and then you will be able to discover what happens when you pay that area a lot of attention."

Jack sighed at the thought of fulfilling their love to each other completely. "How in the world can I concentrate for the next few days with that thought bouncing around my head?"

She giggled at his response. He leaned down again and continued the loving assault on her neck. She moaned at his touch and thought about what it would be like to love him with no boundaries. As the kissing became more passionate, she rolled over into his embrace and returned his affection. She kissed his neck and then moved to his jawline. She nibbled as she slowly made her way to his chin and then his lips. Once she reached his lips, he pulled her closer to him. His hand slipped under her shirt and rested on the small of her back. This was the first time that happened, and his hand felt like it was on fire. She gasped when he first touched her soft skin.

For Elizabeth, she took in a deep breath when Jack's hand touched her bare skin on her back. All of her tingled at his touch. She instantly deepened the kiss. When he moaned against her lips, she lost all ability to think. Things were getting a little too carried away for two people who were wanting to wait until their wedding night.

At the same time, they both pulled back trying to fill their lungs with air. They intently looked into each other's eyes trying to calm their hearts and desires for each other.

"I'm sorry Jack. I…"

"I'm sorry Elizabeth, I…"

They both stated at the same time. They knew the desire for each other was strong.

"Jack, I can't wait until we can experience that."

Jack smiled at her. "I know what you mean. That experience will be unspeakably beautiful."

"Let's get ready for work so we can get married in three days."

…

They walked into the café to grab a quick breakfast. Abagail was there to greet them with a smile and a hug. "Have a seat. I'll get your food to you soon."

"Thank you!" They both stated.

"Jack, when will you start your vacation?"

"Thursday evening beginning at four. Bill gave me that Friday off then the next two weeks. What about you?"

"I received a text this morning saying my last day is Wednesday. Ms. Florence worked it out."

"That's great. So, you work today and tomorrow. That will give you time to finish any preparations for the wedding and time to spend with your family."

"Yeah…I wish you could take it off too."

"Yeah, me too. But I have Friday off and then the following two weeks for our honeymoon."

"Any hints on where we are going for our honeymoon?" She asked with a pleading look.

"No, and don't look at me like that. It's almost impossible to say no to you when you look at me like that."

"Almost impossible, detective."