Chapter 86

As Jack held his wife in the furniture store, her phone vibrates in her pocket. Before answering, she gives Jack an extra squeeze and a kiss on her cheek.

"Hi, mother. How are you?"

"I'm great dear. How are you and the babies?"

"We are good. Jack did his magic this morning."

"That really doesn't work does it?"

"I will never admit it, but it does." Both ladies laughed.

"How is Jack?"

"He is good. We are at a furniture store and just bought the babies their first bedroom set." With that admission, a tear fell down Elizabeth's cheek.

"Oh, Beth. Would you send me a picture of it? I would love to see it."

Elizabeth was grateful her mom was so excited. "Absolutely. Give me second." After taking the picture and sending it, she heard her mother gasp.

"Elizabath. That is absolutely gorgeous! How did you find that?"

Jack smiled at his wife. He knew this call will last a few minutes. He kissed Elizabeth on the cheek and whispered, "I'm going to walk around. Take your time."

She gave him a smile and held onto his arm for an extra second. "Thank you."

When Jack walked off, she turned her attention to her mother.

"We are spending the day today doing a little shopping for the babies. We found this bedroom set. I'm not too sure what we are doing next but we have to fill out the paperwork for this. They are delivering it to our new home on Wednesday."

"This Wednesday?"

"Yes. We just spoke with our contractor, Jerry. He said they will finish today, and we can move things in on Wednesday."

"That's exciting. I can't wait to see all the improvements you have done to the house. I know it will be gorgeous."

They spent a few minutes discussing the new furniture and the new home. Both ladies were grateful for the time to talk and catch up.

...

Jack wondered around the furniture store just looking around giving his bride time to talk with her mother. He wasn't paying attention to anything in particular until he looked up and saw an old writing desk. He walked over to it and ran his fingers over the old wood. The wood was worn, and you could easily see that it was old, but it was in great condition. The desk was distinctive in it's shape and color.

"It's a beautiful piece, isn't it?" The sales lady mentioned. She was the same one who was helping them earlier.

"It is. It is a little different. Why do you have an older piece here? Everything in the store is new."

The store owner traded it for a new crib. An older lady she knew came in and wanted to trade it. She didn't have enough money to cover the crib for her grandbaby. Since the owner knew her, she traded with her."

"That's nice of the owner. Do you know about its history?"

"I do. It was made in 1910 and is a writer's desk. The top rolls back and is hidden in the back. The shelves are small to hold paper and envelopes. The tray in the middle was used to hold the ink bottles. This particular piece was owned by a school teacher. She was the teacher at a country school that only had one classroom. She had all the children of different ages. This piece was in her home, and she used it every day to grade papers and other things."

"That's very cool."

"That's why it's a little worn. The wood is American Maple that was harvested in Vermont. The teacher's family was wealthy."

"I though maple was light in color?"

"It is, but it takes stain very well. The teacher had it stained dark because she loved the darker wood. The American Maple has beautiful designs in it that is enhanced by the darker stain. That's the original stain."

"Wow! It looks great." Jack continued to look at the writing desk. It was big enough to hold a lap top computer and the shelves would be great for Elizabeth to use. "How much are you asking for it?"

"Well, let me check. I'm not too sure."

"Thank you."

Jack continued to admire the piece. He thought it would look great in the library they had made for the new home. "It would be perfect." He said.

"I agree."

"Oh, I didn't know you were back already."

"Sorry. I didn't mean to scare you."

"No problem."

"I spoke with the owner. I told her you were buying the bedroom set for the twins and the large table. She said if you were interested in the writing desk, she would sell it to you for 50% off the asking price. That would make it one hundred dollars."

"I'll take it. Could it be delivered when the bedroom set is delivered?"

"Absolutely. That wouldn't be a problem."

"Also, could we keep it as a surprise for my wife?"

The sales lady smiled. "No problem."

"Thank you."

…

Adam and Charlette's plane made its descent to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport. Charlette couldn't take her eyes off the window. "Oh, Adam. Look at the mountains."

"I would, but you have to move your head so I can look out the window." He sassed.

"Adam Richardson. What a thing to say to your wife."

"I love the sound of that…my wife."

"Buckle up, young man. We're ready to land."

…

They walked through the airport. It had a western flare to it. Adam loved the antler chandeliers. He took a couple pictures of them hoping he could make one or maybe a lamp. The airport wasn't busy by any means. The went down the stairs to pick up their bags and pick up the car they rented. There wasn't a wait, and everything went by quickly.

When they pulled out of the airport parking lot, they made their way to Yellowstone. Adam was loving the fact that the speed limit was eighty miles per hour. The clerk at the rent a car place warned him that he needed to go a little slower after dark. Elk will be out in the road and those things aren't little. Charlette laughed at the thought of Adam getting himself into trouble.

As they drove toward the northern entrance of Yellowstone, they were both getting excited about being here. They held hands as he drove. They stopped in a small town of Gardiner that is located at the Northern entrance. It was a beautiful small town. They found a small restaurant and had a nice early dinner. Adam tried the buffalo burger while Charlette had a regular hamburger. She did try a bite of his burger but she wasn't a big fan.

After the meal, they found a little grocery store and bought snacks and some food for their stay. Their desire was to remain inside the national park for a few days. They didn't want to run back out to a grocery store. Then they would head to Jackson Hole through Yellowstone and experience that town and the Great Tetons. Their return flight was departed from Jackson Hole Airport.

"Charlie, if you don't slow down, you will not have enough room on your phone for all the pictures you are taking. We aren't even at our cabin yet."

"Sush you. I want to remember everything."

"I love you, Charlie. Please don't ever change."

"I love you, Adam.

…

"Beth dear, would it be alright with you and Jack if I come out tomorrow? I would like to be there for Jack's ceremony on Monday and I could possibly help you with the move. Plus, I would love to spend some time with you and Julie."

"That will be fine, mom."

"Would you mind asking Jack?"

"Mom, I don't have too. He said that you and father are always welcomed to stay. When we are in the new house, you will not have to stay in the hotel. You can stay with us."

"Thank you, love. It will be just me. William isn't coming."

"Really?" The surprise was evident in Elizabeth's tone.

"Yes." Was all Grace said.

"May I ask why?" The question really put Grace on the spot. She wasn't going to lie to her middle daughter, but she also was trying to protect her husband. Her long silence was uncomfortable.

"Does he have a lot of work?"

"No, dear. He doesn't."

"Mother, what am I missing?"

Again, her long silence was not missed by Elizabeth. "Mother, what is going on with father?"

"Elizabeth, I'm not sure I should say something or…"

Elizabeth was becoming upset quickly. Something was off and she wanted to know what it was. "Mother, I'll ask again. What is going on with father?"

"Ok…well…have you noticed how he interacts with Jack?"

Elizabeth took a few moments to think about her question. Ever since their marriage, she noticed that she and Jack hasn't spoken about her father. They have talked about every other family member, except her father. "Since you mentioned it, no I haven't."

"Maybe you should ask your husband, dear."

"I will, but now I'm asking you."

Grace exhaled. She knew her daughter's stubbornness will not allow her to avoid the question. "Jack has tried to develop a relationship with William, but William keeps Jack at an arm's reach. He is still upset that you two wouldn't listen to him and decided to get married so quickly against his wishes."

"He's still holding onto that?"

"Sweetheart, haven't you noticed that your father and Jack never talk to each other?"

"No, I haven't. But to think about it, he always quickly hands me the phone."

"Yes, but when he calls Tom and Julie, he talks with Tom for a long while."

"Why?" Elizabeth huffed.

"I mentioned that earlier. I have spoken to Jack about this."

"You have? What did he say?"

"That he respects William as your father, but he is not going to try to develop a relationship with someone who clearly does not want one."

After a few moments of silence, Grace continued. "He told me he would not keep William from his grandkids but that is all he will do. And I completely agree with him. Jack has done nothing wrong. I have told your father this and warned him, but he is being stubborn. He is happy with his relationship with Jack. Even though he doesn't have one."

Elizabeth was silent not because she didn't have anything to say. She was silent because she was extremely upset and mad.

"Jack has tried, but he is done trying. I told him I don't blame him. He promised me I am welcomed to come anytime I want to. He even said that you two would decorate a guest room for me." She smiled at the thoughtfulness of Jack.

Grace was becoming very concerned about her daughter's silence. "Elizabeth, are you there?"

"Yes." She stated. Grace couldn't miss the anger in her voice even if she tried too.

"Elizabeth, I don't want to start an issue."

Elizabeth cut her off. "Mother, you have done nothing wrong. I look forward to you coming tomorrow. I would love you to help with the move and I would love the time with you. Now, I need to make a phone call and have a discussion with my husband."

"Elizabeth, please don't be mad at Jack. He really tried."

"I love Jack and I am not mad at him at all. I just wish I would have known."

"He didn't want to say anything because it involves your father. I think Jack has handled it very well."

"It sounds like he has. Now, I need to make a call."

"Elizabeth…"

"Mother. Father has overstepped his bounds with this. However, I think I will wait until I get home. I don't want to make a scene in the middle of the furniture store."

Grace chuckled. "That may be wise."

"I may pull father through the phone."

There were a few moments of silence before Elizabeth saw Jack walking back to her. His smile was contagious when he saw her. It was pure love.

"Mom, Jack is walking back. I will see you tomorrow. Please text or call me your flight information and we will come and pick you up at the airport."

"Thank you for allowing me to come."

"Mother, we want you to come. You are welcome anytime."

"Love you, dear. Please be respectful to your father."

"No promises. Love you mother."

As Jack walked toward Elizabeth, he could tell something was off. She was smiling, but not like she should have been after picking out the babies' furniture.

"Love, what's wrong?" He asked as he walked into her hug.

…

"Rosemary, are you about ready to leave?"

"Yes, Honey Bunny. Give me one minute to make a last minute run through to see if we missed anything."

"Fine, Squiget. You have five minutes."

"Leland, you know I hate that name."

"And you know I hate the name, Honey Bunny."

They huffed at each other. Rosemary turned to make one last run through of the apartment to make sure they were leaving nothing behind. As she walked out of the master bedroom, she asked Lee. "So, what's the story of where we are moving too?"

"We are moving into a small three bedroom home. We have a one year lease that could turn into us purchasing it if we like it. If not, that will give us a year to find something we like"

"That sounds nice."

"Are you sure you are ok with this?"

"I am. I know you are excited about working with that guy you have been gushing about. I will need to find something for me to do."

"You will. Now, there is something I am about to tell you about someone living in Hope Valley."

"Who? Is it someone important? Someone in the theater business? Oh, I hope it is. Maybe we can start a theater company there together."

"Rosemary, slow down. Why is it that you always jump to the least possible scenario?"

"Lee, you know me."

"Do you remember an Elizabeth Thatcher?"

"Yes. We were friends growing up. We played together a lot as children."

"Well, she lives there. She teaches school."

"That's great for her. She always wanted to be a school teacher. However, I'm shocked Charles would move to a place like Hope Valley."

"I don't know who Charles is, but she is married to Jack Thorton, my boss."

"Wait, she's married to this Jack fellow?"

"Yes."

"I wonder what happened to Charles?"

"I have no idea."

"Well, I am excited about seeing her again. It has been a few years since I have seen her."

After a quick look around for memory's sake, Rosemary and Lee said goodbye to their apartment. This is the only place they have lived since they were married. This new step in their life will be a good step. Lee checked with the moving guys to make sure they were set. They would be arriving in Hope Valley on Monday. Lee was hoping they would arrive early enough to look around on Sunday before checking into the hotel.

"Let's go, Rosemary. We are beginning the next chapter is our life."

…

Viola called Julie to see if her and Tom would like to meet for a late lunch with her and James. They had planned to meet at Abagail's Café by one. Julie hasn't really met James. There was one time and a quick conversation, but that was before James and her sister were dating. Now, Julie was curious with this man.

Julie, Tom, and Vi was sitting at a table that has become the Thorton table. It seems that is where they always sit.

"So, sister. Tell me about this man of yours."

"Oh Julie, don't say it like that."

"You two are dating, right?"

"Yes, we are dating. It is going great. He is a kind man, and I am enjoying getting to know him."

"Ok…spill sister!" She exclaimed.

"Julie, please give your sister some space. This shouldn't be an interrogation." Tom cut in on Viola's defense.

"Fine." Then she turned her attention toward her sister. "This isn't over." She smirked.

"I wouldn't expect any less from you."

As she teased her younger sister, the door opened, and a smiling James walked in. Vi jumped up and began walking toward James. He opened his arms and she stepped into a small hug as he kissed her cheek.

"I have never seen her act that way before…ever."

"Maybe he is good for her. He seems like a nice guy."

"We have had a five minute conversation with the man. We don't know him well enough yet to make that decision."

"Julie, it may be good for you to realize his name is James, not Lionel."

Julie cut her eyes to her husband and saw the look on his face.

"You are strongly in the protective sister mode."

"I guess you are right but is that a bad thing with all she has been through?"

"Protective mode would be good, but you have taken it to a whole new level."

"Yeah…you're right." She sighed.

"I'm sorry. What did you just say?"

"Don't get used to it husband."

Tom stood when James and Viola walked over to the table.

"Tom…Julie…this is my boyfriend, James McKay. James, this is my youngest sister Julie and her husband Tom. He is also Jack's brother."

"Yes, we've meet one time. It's nice to see you again."

"You too."

"So, Tom. You're Jack's brother? And you married sisters?"

"Yeah…it's a little strange."

After sitting down, Tom and Julie told James the story of how they meet, and the visit Tom made to Hope Valley to talk to his brother. James laughed at the shocked tone and expressions on their faces telling their story.

"We were all flabbergasted when Jack walked into the café and notice Julie, Elziabeth, and me sitting talking."

"You should have seen the look on my sister's face when Tom stood and hugged Jack."

"I bet that was funny." The group laughed. "So, you all have taken over Hope Valley?" James asked.

"It sure seems that way."

The group spent a little over an hour talking over their lunch. The conversation flowed easily, and everyone was getting along nicely. Viola sat back amazed at the interaction between everyone. She never remembered anything like this in the past. She reached for James' hand, and he willingly took her hand.

"I hate to cut this short, but we have plans." James began.

"Yes, we don't want to be late." Viola added.

They didn't have any plans, but she wanted to spend the time with him instead of the group.

"Yes, we do as well." Added Julie.

"We are going hiking. Too bad you're busy or you could come with us." Tom stated.

"Maybe next time." Stated Vi as she and James stood.

"It was great eating lunch with you and getting to know you two better."

"We agree, James. Thanks for taking the time to eat with us."

"We'll see you soon."

…

"Elizabeth, what's wrong?" Asked Jack and he leaned back from the hug but not letting go of his wife.

She looked at her husband. "Jack, why didn't you say anything?"

He looked deep into her eyes and saw all the questions she had.

"Elizabeth, he's your father. I didn't want to cause a problem with your family."

"But Jack, you are my husband."

"Yes, and he is your father. He wasn't necessarily rude to me. He was just short. He never wanted to talk to me. That's why I handed you the phone so quickly. He just didn't want to talk with me."

"Jack, that is being rude."

"Elizabeth."

"Jack."

They stated at the same time. They gave each other a small smile.

"I know he was unhappy before our wedding. I thought he was over it, but it became clear to me he wasn't. He was always nice to you. So, I didn't see any reason to mention it."

"Jack! You are my husband. When he disrespects you, he disrespects me!" Her anger was beginning to boil. The more she thought about it, the more she was getting angry.

"Elizabeth…"

"No Jack. This is not ok. You are my love. The father of my children. You will always be in my life. He needs to respect you."

"Sweetheart, you can't make him like me."

Her heart broke at that statement. Jack was a great guy. He loved her unconditionally and was a great husband. He is everything that a father should want for his daughter. This didn't make any sense. That was also causing her anger to grow.

"Jack, this just isn't right."

"Maybe so, but we can't fix it today. Why don't we just enjoy the rest of the day?"

"Fine, but you understand we are not finished with this subject?"

He noticed her very determined look on her face and knew there was no way of avoiding that topic. When his precious wife had her mind made up, there was not changing it.

"Ok Mrs. Stubborn…why don't you go to the bathroom while I give the sales lady the payment and our address?"

"Mrs. Stubborn?" Her hands flew to her hips, and she began tapping her right foot. Her scary teacher face in full display.

She glared at him when he stepped forward with a small smile on his face. He placed his hands on her arms and leaned in to whisper in her ear.

"You are absolutely beautiful when you do that."

She squirmed a little with his breath in her ear and the closeness of his body. He leaned back far enough to look into her eyes. "I love you." He stated as he kissed the tip of her nose. She huffed knowing her look doesn't work on him.

"Now, let's finish this up and we can go to the next store." He turned her around towards the bathroom and tapping her on her bottom.

"Jack!" She shrieked and jumped a little.

…

Jack approached the counter where the sales lady was sitting at the computer working on their order.

"Now remember, the writing desk is a secret."

"Yes, sir."

"May I go ahead and pay for everything while my wife is using the restroom?"

"Sure."

While accepting the payment, Jack gave them the address and they promised to call Elizabeth before delivery. Elizabeth walked up to the counter as the paperwork was completed.

"Thank you for coming in today. Everything is set. Mrs. Thorton, we will call you Wednesday before we leave the store. There will be two men coming. Their names are Leon and Bill. One of them will call you. All you will have to do is point them in the direction and they will set everything up of you."

"Thank you."

…

Jack and Elizabeth walked around the next store looking for bedding for the crib. It was a bigger size crib, so they had to search for the correct size. They were happy at the selection once they found the correct size. Elizabeth couldn't pick what color she wanted and was debating between several sets.

"Jack, I think I want to wait on the color of the bedding. Maybe once things are set up it will be easier to pick."

"That sounds great."

"Do you want one large diaper bag for both of them?" She asked as she wrapped her arm around his and placed her head on his shoulder. As great as the day have been, she was beginning to get tired.

"What if we get two backpacks instead of one large bag. That may be easier to carry for us."

"That's a good idea. Each Peanut can have their own bag. One for a boy and one for a girl. Two smaller bags will be easier to carry around than one big bag."

"Perfect, but not too girly if you want me to carry Iggy's bag." He smirked.

"Define too girly?" She sassed.

The day has been perfect for them. The day was full of intimate moments and touches. They relished spending the day shopping for their little ones and was grateful they found many items. The day was full of conversation and laughter. Nothing too serious was discussed, just every day couple talk. The talk turned toward the ceremony on Monday. He opened up about how nervous he was about officially taking over. Bill won't be around in official capacity. Now, the burdens of everyday work will land squarely on his shoulders. She smiled knowing everyone could see how great he will be at the position except him. She knew he struggled with that aspect, and she understood she would have to remind him that he could handle the position well.

Jack could tell Elizabeth was getting tired. After purchasing two backpacks and a couple of other items for the baby, he suggested they head for an early dinner and then go home. She easily agreed.

"How about Italian? There was a restaurant around the corner that looked great."

"Yes."

He extended his arm for her. She gladly accepted his arm by placing her hand on his forearm. "Jack, this has been a perfect day."

"I agree. When we get home, I'll get you a warm, bubble bath ready and you can relax."

"Would you rub my feet and legs instead?"

"A bowl of ice cream with a topping of diced pickles with a chick flick?"

Elizabeth sighed with contentment. "A perfect way to end a perfect day."

The only thing Jack could do was shake his head at the thought of pickles on top of ice cream.

…

Adam pulled onto a part gravel and dirt road. "I think this is it."

"It fits the description, and the GPS says it is, but I don't see anything yet." Charlette stated as she was looking out the window for any signs of their cabin.

"The road takes a turn up there, maybe it will open up to the cabin."

"Adam, this is so cool. Staying inside Yellowstone in a cabin was the best idea."

"Well, let's find the cabin first." He sassed.

"Look! There it is!" She exclaimed when the cabin came into view after the turn. "It's perfect!"

The cabin was located inside Yellowstone. They could hear water moving but couldn't see it. The cabin wasn't huge. It was two bedrooms with a full kitchen and open living room. The website said there was a deck out back with a covered hot tub. The views were supposed to be spectacular. The front of the cabin was gorgeous and exactly what you expect in a national park.

Before getting out of the car, Adam handed Charlette a bag. "Now, the website and the booking agent said this is a must outside of the cabin, even just going to the car."

"What's this?"

"It's bear spray."

"Bear spray?"

"Yes, Charlie. There are grizzly bears and all kinds of wild animals out there. He said we should always go out together and carry the bear spray."

"This is so cool!" She exclaimed.

"I love your adventurous spirit." He laughed. He really did love the fact that she was adventurous. She was up for anything and was willing to try new things. He quickly fell in love with her when she helped with the projects for people. Even though she didn't know what she was doing, she jumped right in to help without hesitation. She was fearless. She was also a quick learner.

"Let's go husband! I want to see the inside of the cabin."

"Well, let's at least take the first load of our things in as we go." He said as she was already out the door. "Charlie…slow down!"

Adam caught up with his bride just as she stepped on the small porch of the cabin. "Charlie, wait." He stated as he reached and grabbed her hand.

"Adam, if you suggest carrying me over the threshold, you are out of your ever loving mind. You did that on our first night together. I don't want you to hurt your back."

Adam gave her a little mischievous smile. He placed his hands on her hips and slowly pulled her closer. Just before their lips touched, he quickly bent down and picked her up. "I've been in training for this." He smirked as she shrieked.

"Training?" She stated as she wrapper her arms around his neck.

"I've been working out."

"Are you serious?"

"Absolutely. I've been physically training and then with the heart medication, I am set for our honeymoon." He playfully sassed with a light in his eyes.

"Adam, whatever comes our way, please promise me you will not change." She stated just before she gently touched his lips. "Now young man, get me inside before you hurt yourself or we are eaten by bears."

"I promise to protect you."

…

Jack sat down on the couch with a loud sigh. It had been a good day, but a long day. He was honestly happy for his mom. She deserved to be happy after all she had been through and all she had done to keep her family together and moving forward. He was still missing his dad, but he completely understood her desire to marry Adam.

Ever since their talk, he and Adam have grown closer to each other. He liked Adam and was grateful that he was in her life. Him missing his father had nothing to do with Adam. This was just a big moment in life, and it was those moments that brought his father to mind.

Elizabeth sat down on the end of the couch and placed a pillow on her lap. She patted the pillow and told Jack to lay down. When he did, she began to run her fingers through his hair. She knew this would relax him.

"Are you ok with the events of the day?"

"I am. I love that she is happy, and Adam is good for her."

"And your father?"

"Yeah, I just miss him in certain moments."

"I know." She gently rubbed his cheek for a moment.

They sat silently for a few minutes just resting from the day and enjoying the moment of silence together.

"How are you doing?" He asked.

"I'm good."

"Are you handling the pregnancy well?"

"I'm doing good."

"I mean, everything with the pregnancy. I know this is a huge change for you physically, mentally, and emotionally."

As she thought about his question, her smile continued to grow. "Honestly, I love everything about it. These babies are us. The changes are coming fast. I struggle to keep up with that, but I wouldn't change a thing. I am so in love with the Peanuts, and I haven't even met them yet."

"I agree. I don't understand how I love them so much so soon, but I do." She smiled as Jack turned his head and kissed her belly twice. "Elizabeth, please tell me if you are beginning to struggle with anything."

"I promise."

They spend the next thirty minutes in chatting about little things. Some of that time was in silence just being with each other. When she began to fall asleep, Jack got up and placed the pillow on the couch and lifted her up in his arms.

"Jack, don't hurt yourself."

"Hush you, Ms. Thatcher."

"Jack, I hate it when you say that. That's not my name anymore."

"I know sweetheart, but you are not too heavy. You are perfect."

She moaned as she settled into his hold. She loved being in his arms.

Author's Note:

Just an interesting fact…Gardiner, the town in Montana where I have Charlette and Adam stop on the way to the honeymoon cabin, is a real town. I vacationed there last year. It is beside the Yellowstone River and just a two minute drive from the North entrance to Yellowstone. I stayed there for three days while I visited Yellowstone. It is a beautiful small town. I couldn't remember the name of the restaurant where I tried the Buffalo burger, or I would have included it. I loved it there and hope to go back. Then I traveled to a small town outside of Jackson Hole, Wyoming for a couple of days. Best vacation I have ever been on and hope to go back at some point.