A/N: Hello, dear friends. We've come to the final regular chapter of this story. Next week I'll be posting an epilogue with a glimpse into the future for the Grants and Kinslows. Thank you so much for coming on this journey with me. I appreciate all your support over the months. There would be no writers if there were no readers - so from the bottom of my heart, thank you for reading this story. Love to you all! xoxo Lauralyn

Like most years in the Canadian west, winter felt long. As much as Elizabeth loved cold and snow, after a while she began longing for spring. Still, she couldn't complain. Most evenings were spent in front of the fire with her husband. Wrapped in a shared blanket, they drank hot tea and talked quietly about their days, their hopes for the future, and their struggles. She loved those moments with him, when they could just be themselves and talk freely about whatever came to their minds.

Slowly, as February faded into March, the weather grew warmer. Flowers began to blossom. The promise of spring was in the air, along with the promise of new life.

Elizabeth held a hand to her stomach as she walked to school one morning, wondering if it was possible. She'd missed one cycle and was late for another, but she had no other symptoms that might indicate she was pregnant. She was almost afraid to hope. Twice in the nine months she and Nathan had been married, she thought she might be carrying his child, only to be disappointed when her monthly cycle eventually came. Would it be the same again this time? Or was she truly expecting a baby?

A little sigh escaped. She glanced up toward heaven. "Please, Lord. I pray there's a baby this time."

She felt distracted during lessons that day. There were several moments when she had to sharply remind herself to focus, to give her full attention to her students. By the time she rang the bell to dismiss class, she sank into her chair, resting her head in her hands.

"Long day?"

Elizabeth blinked. She lifted her head to see Nathan walking toward her. A smile tugged at her lips. She stood to meet him. When he approached, she pulled him into an embrace, raising herself on her toes to kiss him. She meant it to be short and sweet, but the emotions swirling inside found release in their physical affection. Her arms made their way around his neck as she kissed him in a way that was normally reserved for their home. When she finally pulled back, Nathan gaped at her.

"Not that I mind at all, but what brought that on?"

She buried her face in his chest and shook her head. "I don't know if I can voice it quite yet."

He rubbed her back gently, letting silence reign for a few moments. "Why don't we go for a ride? It's a beautiful day, and I know you've been wanting to see that waterfall on the mountain."

She looked up at him, eyes shining. "Oh, can we?"

Nathan nodded. "Of course." He chucked her softly under the chin. "Maybe then you can tell me what's going on in that beautiful mind of yours."

She melted against him, loving that he gave her space but also refused to let her wallow. "I will, love. I promise."

He smiled, kissing her tenderly, then took her hand and led her outside. They rode double to the stables in order to pick up Sergeant. When they were each on their own horse, a glint entered Nathan's eyes.

"Race you to the tree line?"

She laughed. "Catch me if you can!" She dug her heels into Sergeant's flanks. The horse lunged forward with all the power and grace that made him an excellent Mountie's partner. She laughed again, feeling the spring breeze in her hair. For a moment, she forgot all her concerns and just let herself feel.

Newton's hoofs pounded close behind her. She leaned forward, urging Sergeant faster, though she sensed Nathan would overtake her soon. They came neck-and-neck for a moment, and she darted a glance at her husband. A broad smile filled his face. At the last moment, he pulled up slightly, and she and Sergeant won.

Reining him in, she turned to Nathan. "You let me win!" Planting a hand on her hip, her eyes dared him to deny it.

He chuckled. "I admit nothing." Reaching out, he tugged a lock of her hair with a wink.

The look melted her. She laughed, the first one she'd uttered that entire day. "Alright, my love. Where is this waterfall?"

He nudged Newton into a walk. "Follow me, Mrs. Grant."

They traveled up a series of switchbacks before going deeper into the forest. After twenty minutes, Elizabeth heard the sound of rushing water. They came through a break in the trees, and a magnificent sight met her eyes.

A round lake sat nestled amongst the trees, with a large rock formation rising from it to create a natural wall. Water gushed down from the top, falling into the lake with a loud roar. Patchy snow surrounded the lake, melting slowly to join the water already present. Elizabeth drew in a deep breath, awed at the view. "Oh! It's stunning."

Nathan swung down, patting Newton and allowing the horse to wander. He walked to Elizabeth and helped her down. She stayed in his arms for a few moments as Sergeant joined his friend at a patch of new grass. Her eyes strayed once more to the waterfall cascading in silvery-blue glory down the rocky slope. "I can't believe I've never seen this before. And so close to town!"

He smiled, reaching down to take her hand and tug her toward the falls. "It's hard to find if you don't know where to look for it. I stumbled on it quite by accident myself." His grip on her hand tightened slightly. "This can be our own special spot."

She got lost in the brilliant blue of his eyes, a sappy smile on her lips. Nathan grinned in response. His next words jolted her from her reverie. "Want to go in?"

She blinked. "Go in? Go in what?"

He chuckled. "The waterfall."

Her blinking intensified. "You … want to go in … the waterfall?"

Nathan threw back his head and laughed, the rich sound reverberating through the trees. "Sort of. Do you trust me?"

That was an easy question to answer. She nodded, even though she wasn't sure what he had planned. He pulled her toward the falls, then led her up some rocky steps before pointing to an opening behind the waterfall. "There!" he said, half-shouting to be heard over the falls. "We can go inside."

Excitement leapt in her chest. She clung tightly to his hand as he led her behind the wall of water. The rushing sound of the falls faded slightly in the small, damp cave, but the magnificence of the falling water captivated Elizabeth. She stared at the falls, feeling the mist cling to her skin. It was enchanting. Eventually, she knew they would have to pull themselves away from this secret hideaway, but she hoped it wouldn't be for a while.

When Nathan finally did lead her back to the grassy area, he made no move to get the horses. Instead, he led her to a tree that was bathed in sunlight. He sat, placing his back against the trunk, then patted the spot in front of him. "Sit with me, sweetheart."

Elizabeth accepted his invitation. She sat down and scooted back until she rested against his solid chest. His arms went around her immediately, his hands resting on her stomach. They sat quietly for a time, looking out over the lake and enjoying the view of the waterfall. She let her head fall against her husband's shoulder.

He moved his head closer to hers and spoke softly. "Are you ready to share what had you down earlier?"

She tilted her head back to look at him. "What makes you think I was down?"

His smile was tender. "You had your head in your hands when I walked into the building, and then you kissed me like you would never have the chance to do so again. That told me something was wrong." His arms tightened around her protectively. "Talk to me, Elizabeth. What's going on?"

She sighed. "I don't know. It might be nothing."

His eyes gazed into hers. "But something is bothering you."

There was no point in hiding it. She felt her throat constrict momentarily before she admitted the truth. "I missed my last cycle, and now I'm late for another."

He blinked, confusion clouding his eyes before comprehension dawned. "You think you might be pregnant?"

A shuddering breath took her. "I … I hope so. I really do. But … I'm afraid I might be wrong." Unable to hold his gaze, she looked back at the lake. "I thought I was pregnant twice before and nothing came of it. I'm worried that might be the case now." She bit her lip. "More than anything, I want to give you a child, Nathan. I want to see you hold a baby in your arms that belongs to you and to me. Watching you with Gabe and Colleen's children tells me what a wonderful father you will be. I want to know what it's like to raise a child with you." A single tear slipped from her eye. "Part of me worries I won't be able to give you that."

"Ahh, Elizabeth." His hands softly caressed her stomach. "You know I've struggled with the thought of being a father. I've only come to terms with the idea because you and Gabe and my sister believe in me." His hands stilled, cupping her belly tenderly between them. "I do want babies with you. You will be an amazing mother. I'm no longer afraid of fatherhood." He kissed her cheek. "Look at me, sweetheart."

She swallowed, then did as he asked. The love in his eyes stole her breath.

"As much as I'd love to have and raise children with you, whether or not we have any will not change my feelings for you. You are and always will be the love of my life." A smile tugged at his lips. "We haven't even been married a year, though. I'm sure you'll conceive soon, if you're not already pregnant." He eyed her stomach. "You missed two cycles, you said?"

Suddenly, her upheaval over her emotions felt silly. She lowered her eyes again. "Basically." A short breath escaped. "You must think I'm overreacting."

He chuckled. The sound drew her eyes up sharply. Nathan kissed her before she could comment on his laughter. When he pulled back, his eyes sparkled. "Actually, I think that proves that our child grows within you."

She stilled, blinking rapidly. "You do? How so?"

His hands resumed their gentle caressing over her womb. "Not that I think you're being too emotional, but isn't that a sign of pregnancy? Overactive hormones, or something like that?"

A gasp escaped her. At the same time, a smile spread over her face. "Yes! It is!" She felt the urge to giggle, a girlish reaction she hadn't indulged in for years. "Nathan! I'm probably pregnant!"

He chuckled again. "You know, I heard about an early detection method doctors can use to determine whether a woman is having a baby. Carson might know about it. Maybe we can ask him."

Elizabeth straightened. Hope pulsed through her. "Do you think we could see him now?"

Nathan stood, offering her a hand to help her up. "I think we could." Excitement shone on his face, telling her that she wasn't the only one who hoped she carried their child. They hurried to the horses and began making their way to town.

Less than an hour later, they had their answer.

Gabe bounced Ryan in his arms, prompting little chortles of glee from his five-month-old son. Across the desk, Caleb held a sleeping James. The two men had volunteered to watch the boys for a few hours so Colleen could have some mother-daughter time with Allie and Daisy. Gabe jokingly said it was the first take-your-kids-to-work day in Hope Valley.

Caleb shifted to a more comfortable position. "I don't know how you do it day in and day out," he said, looking up at Gabe. "Four children. That's a handful. I'm intimidated by one."

Gabe laughed. "Nonsense. I see you every week at our house. The children love you. You're a natural with them."

Caleb flushed at the praise. "You think so?"

"Absolutely." Gabe flashed a grin. "I don't let my kids call just anyone 'uncle', you know."

That made the young man laugh. "Thanks, Gabe. I appreciate your trust in me."

"It's well deserved." Gabe resumed bouncing his wiggly son. "Do you want kids of your own someday?"

"Maybe." The look on Caleb's face turned reflective. "I used to think I wouldn't marry, and therefore wouldn't have a family. But now …" His face flushed red.

Gabe smiled knowingly. "Now Katie is in your life. And you can see a future with her."

The young man stammered momentarily before raising his eyes with a calm that wasn't there moments ago. "Yes. In fact … I might have had a conversation with Ned about that."

Gabe's brows shot up. "Oh? Do tell."

Caleb cleared his throat. "Well, she and I have been courting for over six months. Last night after dinner, while Katie prepared dessert, Ned asked me point-blank what my intentions were. That forced me to really think about where I saw the relationship going, even though I'd known subconsciously for a while what that was." He chuckled, almost in disbelief. "I told him I wanted to marry her."

Mouth dropping, Gabe stared. "You did?"

Caleb nodded, his face blooming in a smile. "I did. I asked his permission then and there. He looked a bit stunned, but then he grinned and said he would be thrilled to have a Mountie for a son-in-law."

Gabe laughed. "So are congratulations in order?"

"Not yet." Caleb shook his head. "I might have Ned's permission, but I don't have a ring. I told him I wanted to wait a few more months, just because Katie and I are both so young and haven't even known each other a year. He was fine with that, though he did tell me not to wait too long. Apparently, he wants to see his only child happily settled."

Gabe nodded. "That makes sense. Though I think it's wise that you're giving it a little time." He turned Ryan so the baby faced out, able to see the room at large. "But if the time feels right, go for it. I'm sure Katie would say yes in a heartbeat."

Caleb's face took on a hint of wonder. "I almost can't believe someone like her would fall for someone like me."

Gabe hiked a brow as Ryan squealed, reaching for a pen on the table. He shifted his son out of reach of the instrument. "Someone loyal and brave and kind? Someone who loves her wholeheartedly?" He grinned as Caleb's face reddened. "Don't sell yourself short, my friend. You have a lot to offer her."

Caleb's facial features relaxed. "Thanks, Gabe."

A knock sounded at the door. At Gabe's call, Nathan poked his head in. "You busy?"

His best friend wore the goofiest smile Gabe had ever seen. Something was up. He motioned him inside. "Not at all. Come on in and spill whatever it is that has you bursting at the seams."

Nathan's grin broadened. Ryan let out a shriek of joy, reaching for his uncle. Gabe surrendered his son to Nathan, watching as his friend was momentarily distracted by showering attention on his nephew. Ryan stared up at Nathan with rapt awe, his brown eyes large and curious.

Gabe grinned. "You're going to make a great father, you know."

The silly grin hadn't diminished. If anything, it grew even more, something he hadn't thought possible. Nathan's eyes twinkled as they met Gabe's. "I'm glad you think so, since Elizabeth and I found out yesterday that we'll be welcoming a little one sometime in October."

Caleb's mouth dropped. Gabe stared, then laughed. "Congratulations!" He slapped Nathan on the back. "What wonderful news!" He chuckled, rubbing his hands together. "It's about time I get to be an uncle!"

Nathan joined in his laughter. When it quieted, he wore a look of silent awe. "Can you believe it?" The whispered words were spoken to Gabe and Caleb, but his eyes were on little Ryan. "All these years, I was scared beyond belief, thinking fatherhood something to dread. Now …" He trailed off, his eyes softening. "Now I can't wait to start this journey with Elizabeth." The awe in his voice increased. "We're going to be parents."

Gabe slung an arm around his shoulders. "Yes, you are. And you will be amazing parents. Your children are fortunate."

Nathan's smile held a mixture of pride and humility. "Thanks, Gabe. I'm not sure why I've been so blessed. Lord knows I ran hard from marriage and parenthood after my upbringing and the heartbreak with Sarah." A gentle chuckle left him. "I think I now personally understand the verse from Ezekiel: 'I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten'." He rocked Ryan, who was beginning to fall asleep, content in his uncle's arms. "Talk about grace. I certainly didn't deserve it."

Gabe clamped a hand on his shoulder. "That's the definition of grace, Nathan. It's unmerited, but it's freely given." He smiled. "I'm glad you finally understand that."

Nathan nodded. "I finally do."

"Congratulations, Nathan." Caleb stood, balancing James in one arm while holding a hand out to Nathan. "I'm happy for you and Elizabeth."

"Thanks, Caleb." His smile grew again. "Why don't we head to the cafe for lunch? It's on me."

"Sounds good," Gabe said. He reached for his hat, then paused. "Does Colleen know?"

Nathan nodded. "Elizabeth and I were on our way here to tell you the news, but when we ran into my sister, it slipped out. Elizabeth stayed with her and the girls. They were going to see about designing some dresses together for themselves and Allie and Daisy at Rosemary's shop." He laughed low. "They'll probably be a while."

"Great! Then we'll enjoy some guy time." Gabe chuckled. "Too bad the twins are asleep."

Caleb looked at James. The baby let out a yawn, squirming lightly in his arms. "Don't worry there, boss. I'm thinking once they hear all the noise in the street, they'll wake right up and be ready to socialize."

A broad grin on his face, Gabe nodded. "You're probably right. Alright, gentlemen, let's head to lunch." He plopped his hat on his head. "Maybe we can even convince Bill to join us."

Several months later, in the deep quiet of night, Nathan held his wife in his arms as they sat on the settee, mugs of steaming tea sitting on the coffee table, Misty sleeping on the chair across from them. His hands moved softly over her protruding bump, the bump that told them their child was growing strong and healthy. He smiled when the baby kicked, pressing his or her foot firmly against Elizabeth's womb as if determined to make its presence known.

"Hello, little one." He kept his voice low while continuing to rub his wife's stomach. "We're getting quite anxious to meet you."

"Less than three months." Elizabeth let out a small sigh, snuggling her head into his neck. Her hand pressed over his, twining their fingers. "Life is going to change dramatically for us when this baby arrives."

He smiled. "In the best way possible."

"Mmhmm." She closed her eyes, her free hand toying with the ruby pendant around her neck. "It's adorable how excited you are, you know."

He laughed quietly. "Adorable, huh?"

She gave him a sweet nod. Her lips touched his throat, momentarily distracting him. After letting out another little sigh, she wrapped her arm around his waist. "It amazes me how big I feel. Looking at my body, I know I'm not that large, but my stomach feels about as stretched as it can possibly be. But I'm only going to get bigger as our child grows." She shook her head. "The human body is a true miracle."

Nathan rested his head against hers. "That it is. Have I mentioned how grateful I am that you're nurturing this baby so well?"

She chuckled. "A time or two, yes." She patted her stomach. "I'm just doing what women have been doing forever."

"Maybe so, but you're doing it for our little one. And in my eyes, that makes you incredibly special."

Elizabeth lifted her head, meeting his gaze. A tender smile played on her lips. "You have been such a support for me during this pregnancy, my love. I'm blessed to have you by my side."

Nathan cupped her cheek, gently rubbing his thumb along her jaw. He didn't respond with words; he pressed his lips to hers and let his actions speak for him. When they pulled apart, Elizabeth wore a loving but serious expression.

"Nathan, I want you to know how proud I am of you." She placed a hand over his heart. "You let the strength within overcome your fears. Because of that, we have this beautiful life together." Her lips found his for a brief moment. "Thank you."

He couldn't speak for a full minute. Her praise washed through him, healing the remainder of his wounds and showing him what it meant to truly love unconditionally. He wouldn't be where he was today if it wasn't for her and her persistent love, her refusal to give up on him when he'd been ready to give up on himself. If he had any strength inside, it was because of others.

Her. Gabe. Colleen. Even Bill, Abigail, and the Coulters, with their gentle friendship and willingness to see the best in him even when he failed. They pushed him to be the best he could be, to cooperate with God-given grace and overcome his fears.

His throat tightened. He hadn't deserved any of it, but he was beyond grateful. He pulled his wife fully into his arms, sitting her on his lap. She squeaked in surprise before smiling. She slid her arms around his neck. He gazed into her eyes, his gratitude choking off the words he wanted to say.

Elizabeth rested her forehead against his. "It's alright, Nathan. You don't have to say anything. I know."

Because he still couldn't seem to speak fully, he croaked out three words. "I love you."

She nuzzled another kiss against his lips. "And I love you."

They sat there for a long time, holding each other and occasionally whispering endearments. Nathan's gratitude overwhelmed him. As he held his wife, he looked up toward heaven and mouthed a quiet prayer straight from the heart.

Thank you, Lord. For everything.