Author's Note:
This is a super long chapter. Most of my chapters are around 5,000 – 6,000 words. This chapter is over 9,500 words. I wanted the wedding to be all in one chapter. Get comfortable. I hope you enjoy it.
Chapter 41
Elizabeth woke up early with a smile on her face. It was earlier than normal, but she was just too excited to sleep. Today was the day that she was going to fulfill her promise to Jack and herself. As much as she tried to go back to sleep, she knew she couldn't. Every time she closed her eyes, she would see his dimpled smile. Those eyes, those dimples, and the muscle show from yesterday was replaying in her mind. JJ was hilarious in flexing for her. Jack was hilarious too, but he was also incredibly handsome doing it. She couldn't wait until later when she could actually touch those muscles without his shirt on.
Elizabeth was happy with their conversation yesterday. While she is excited about what comes after the ceremony, she is also nervous about it too. She isn't experienced in that area, but they promised each other to take that journey together. The trust she had in Jack made that thought process easier. While she was nervous, she was excited too. The last few passionate kisses with Jack were incredible. They had been few the last few days with everything that has happened, but the time against the jail house and the time on Jack's couch, lit a fire inside of her.
Jack laid in bed thinking the same things Elizabeth was. He loved her with all his heart. Now, his body was catching up to his heart. The passionate kisses were earth shattering to him. They moved him in a way that he had never felt before. Elizabeth completely engulfed him. The more he was with Elizabeth, the greater the desire to be with her. The intimate time on the couch kissing was out of this world incredible. He had never experienced anything like that before that night. To be honest if Mr. P didn't interrupt them that night, he wasn't sure if he could have pulled himself back from that cliff.
Jack laid in bed staring at the ceiling. His mind and body were in complete agreement with each other. This wasn't just a physical aspect of their married life. Sure, Jack's body wanted to be with Elizabeth, but it was much more than just physical. They have played this game for three years. Over the last couple of weeks, their relationship has grown to a whole new level of intimacy. They gave their lives to each other completely. Nothing was held back. Their hearts were one. The physical aspect of their relationship was the next step they were going to take together.
The night came to mind when Elizabeth snuck into his room when he and JJ was in the same room. When he closed his eyes, he could still feel her in his arms. He was looking forward to feeling those feelings every day of his life. His smile only grew at the thought.
He couldn't stay in the bed any longer. He had to get up and see his person. Jack got out of bed and dressed quickly. He stepped out of his room to head toward the stairs. It was still early, and the sun was still hiding behind the mountains. He jumped when he heard a door open.
"Mr. P…" Jack gasped. "What are you doing up so early?"
"I think I'm still on the earlier time zone. It's not too early for me yet."
"Fair enough."
"Where are you going?" Mr. P asked with a knowing look.
"A walk…you?"
"Getting things ready."
For what?" Jack asked.
"We are renting the row house that is three houses down." Mr. P nodded toward the house's direction.
"Really?"
"Yes. We are renting that house while we look for a house or property to purchase to build a house. The row house comes furnished with a couch and a bed. So, we are set until we can purchase a few more things. We are moving our clothes this morning. We will stay there tonight."
"You didn't have to do that."
"Sure we did. You and Elizabeth need this time to be home alone. Plus, we are close enough to help with JJ when you need us."
"Thank you."
"Sure." Mr. P gave him a knowing look. "Now, go for that walk." He smirked at Jack.
…
Jack stepped off the porch after putting his boots on and slowly closing the door. He was excited that Mr. P said they would take care of JJ if he woke up before Jack returned home.
Jack quickly made his way down the road toward town. It wasn't that far of a walk. He has made it so often that he could make it blindfolded. His smile grew knowing he was going to see Elizabeth soon. He picked up his pace. They were getting married today. He just had to see her.
Elizabeth slowly closed the door to the café. She didn't see anyone downstairs nor did she hear anyone upstairs as she was leaving. She had to see Jack. There was something inside of her that was driving her to see him. She knew it was early. It was still dark with stars out. She also knew she was giving him a hard time last night about not seeing each other before the ceremony. However, she just had to see him. It was that simple.
Elizabeth was walking along the road with her head down. She laughed at the last time she walked this road when it was dark. It was just after one in the morning. She was on her way to see Jack. Her laughter grew when she remembered the battle she was having in her head about going to Jack's house at such an hour. This morning, she was having no such debate. She was on a mission.
Jack stopped walking when he heard laughter. "Who could that be at this hour?" He asked himself. When he heard the laughter the second time, he knew exactly who it was. Only one person laughs like that. He stood with his hands on his hips. He was trying to imitate Elizabeth's scary teacher stance. It only took Elizabeth about fifteen seconds to turn the curve in the road and look directly at Jack.
"Jack!" Elizabeth screamed out when she looked up. "You scared me to death!" Her hands flew to her chest while she tried to catch her breath. "Jack! You can't see me before the ceremony!" She huffed.
"E…liz…a…beth…" He drew out her name. Elizabeth lost her breath for a whole other reason when he did that. "What are you doing out at this hour?"
"I…I…I…was…" Elziabeth was trying to engage her brain. "Wait…what are you doing out at this hour?"
"You know it's rude to answer a question with a question." Jack smirked. "I believe the same reason you are." He gave her a flirty grin.
"Jack, you can't see me before the ceremony. It's bad luck."
"And we have spoken about this already. Our marriage isn't based on luck. I honestly feel that this is ordained by God. By the way, what were you going to do when you came to my house?"
Elizabeth's face turned red as she tried to think of an answer. No reason and no answer was coming to her mind. She loved it when Jack spoke with such certainty concerning them. She looked at a tree that was close by hoping that would buy her enough time to think of something. However, her brain just wasn't engaging.
Jack walked toward her slowly with a smile on his face. He loved this woman with every ounce of who he was. Yes, she was physically beautiful. But that wasn't why he loved her so much. He loved her because of who she is. She is a great person. Elizabeth is kind, funny, compassionate, and loving just to name a few of her characteristics. He loved everything that makes Elizabeth…Elizabeth.
Jack stepped in front of his fiancé. With familiarity, he reached around her waist and placed both hands on her hips. He slowly slid his hands around her waist until they rested on the small of her back. He could feel her back narrowing down to her waist. He could also feel her body opening to her bottom. Jack almost lost control because of the feel of her body. His eyes traveled from her eyes to her lips. She was biting her bottom lip in anticipation of what was coming. Jack's knees instantly grew weak. He was completely lost in Elizabeth. If you asked him any question, he wouldn't be able to answer even the simplest of questions.
"So…" Jack spoke softly with a flirty tone. The tone made Elizabeth melt. "…we're getting married today." He tried to close the remaining distance between them. He purposefully pulled her slowly to him.
Elizabeth's eyes saw fire inside of Jack's eyes. She saw it with him on the couch, but this was a bigger fire than before. She was lost in the look of his eyes. Her eyes traveled down to Jack's lips. They were kissably seductive. They were a little red. They also had a very thin layer of sweat on his top lip. When Jack licked his lips, she almost fainted. Just like Jack, she was lost in her future husband.
"So…I guess you may kiss me now since you broke tradition."
As soon as the last syllable was spoken, Jack crashed his lips onto Elizabeth's. When she moaned, the vibration and sound drove Jack deeper. His right hand remained on the small of her back. He moved his left hand and placed it through her hair and on the back of her head. He pulled with both hands to deepen the kiss.
Elizabeth's moan was involuntary, but she wasn't embarrassed by it. When Jack moved his hands to deepen the kiss, Elizabeth grabbed ahold of Jack's hair that was on the back of his head and pulled him closer. Her left hand traveled down his back and rested just above his bottom. Without thinking, her hand paused for a moment, then she reached for his belt. After taking hold of it, she pulled, trying to get him closer. He just wasn't close enough. She raised her right leg and wrapped it around Jack's left leg. She would never have thought about doing that, but her mind wasn't working. Her body was in complete control.
When Elizabeth's leg was wrapped around Jack's leg, he slowly moved his right hand over her bottom. When his hand was on her bottom, he let it stay there for a few moments. That was the first time he had touched her bottom with his hand. He lost all ability to think. It felt better than he ever imagined. He slightly squeezed it and then slowly moved his hand to her mid thigh. He held her leg in place.
Elizabeth should have stopped Jack when his hand traveled south. However, it felt incredible to her. She actually felt lightheaded. She wasn't sure if it was because of where Jack's hand was or if it was because of the intense kiss. Maybe it was because of everything. Whatever was the reasoning, she loved the attention of her future husband. While they both needed to breathe, they needed each other more than the oxygen their lungs were demanding.
They only broke loose when they heard a wagon approaching. Elizabeth slowly lowered her leg when Jack let go of it. Her leg rubbed Jack's leg the whole way to the ground. Elizabeth released the death grip on Jack's hair as he let go of her hair. They both gasped for air as the wagon came closer. They looked into each other's eyes and they both knew what the other was thinking.
"In a few hours…" Elizabeth began.
"…we're not stopping." Jack finished her statement in a breathy tone. Neither one of them was blushing even though their faces were red. Before Jack attempted to walk, he had to take a deep breath and close his eyes. He was a little light headed form the intimate encounter.
…
Grace stood in the doorway of the shared bedroom with Elizabeth. Grace was admiring Elizabeth in her wedding dress. She was standing in front of the tall slender mirror in the corner of the room. Grace was lost in thought of her daughter. Images of Elizabeth when she was four running through the house in a beautiful cream dress with her hair flowing behind her as she ran into the library. When Elizabeth was a child, she hated her hair to be put into two different braids. She preferred one bigger braid. She laughed at the memory of her middle child's pouty face when she had to wear it all day. She recognizes that same pouty face in JJ. Grace was having a hard time remembering that JJ wasn't Elizabeth's natural child. They were beginning to act a lot alike. She remembered her daughter standing in the kitchen dripping water everywhere when she fell into the pond. The disgusted expression on Elizabeth's face still brought a smile to Grace's face. The image of Elizabeth standing in the archway just before she entered her debutante ball replayed in her mind. As beautiful as Elizabeth was then, it cannot compare to the beauty that was reflected in the mirror today. She remembered that she and her husband pushed for Charles to be her escort, but Elizabeth refused to have an escort to her debutante ball.
As beautiful as Elizabeth was then and is now, that wasn't what was impressing Grace at the moment. The sheer determination of who Elizabeth is was impressive. Grace remembered the one and a half our long discussion in the sitting room when Elizabeth told them she wanted to go to the teacher's college. She and William were dead set against it, but Elizabeth's determination finally won them over. Three years ago, Elizabeth stood tall in the library to first tell them that she was moving out West to fulfill her calling in life. That conversation bled over into several conversations over the course of three weeks. Grace couldn't understand how Elizabeth would pick some small, country school in a small town no one had ever heard before over a prestigious school in Hamilton. The night before Elizabeth was set to leave, Grace and her husband spent two hours trying to persuade their middle daughter to abandon this 'dream in a sky' and stay in Hamilton. Elizabeth was of age and needed to marry Charles. She needed to take her proper place in society. Grace just shook her head at the obscene thought now.
Grace was almost ready to come and take Elizabeth back home days after she arrived in Coal Valley. Her daughter being robbed on the stagecoach on her way out West was too much for her mother's heart. When she finally heard what happened with the Toliver Gang, she was beside herself with worry. When the attempt to lure Elizabeth back to Hamilton with the prestigious teaching position at one of the finest schools in Hamilton was turned down, it was Julie who kept her mother from getting on a train and dragging her middle daughter home. William continued to tell her that it wouldn't be long before their daughter would be home. "This little adventure of our spirited. middle daughter will soon be over." Was a phrase he mentioned more than once to her.
Elizabeth was exactly where she needed to be to fulfill her calling. Grace was finally able to see that. Hope Valley was the right place for her daughter. The friendships she formed here were exactly what she needed. Grace shook her head at how wrong she was. Not only with Hope Valley and the move out West, but with Jack too. He was the right man for her. He was her strength. He also pushed her. Grace could easily see that the true Elizabeth shined when she was with Jack. He didn't take anything away from her. He added to her. That wasn't the way she was when she was with Charles. The snapshot of Elizabeth's life was interrupted by a voice she was barely able to hear due to her reminiscing. Grace looked up to Abagail, Mrs. P, and Elizabeth looking at her.
"Mother…what do you think?"
…
JJ stood in his room working on his tie. Mr. and Mrs. P was already gone. Their stuff was already moved to the row house they were renting. JJ sighed when he just couldn't tie it properly. Jack tried showing him earlier in the day and he thought he had it figured out, but he just couldn't do it. After his fifth attempt, he dropped his hands slapping his thighs in frustration.
"Alright Mr. Independent…let's go over this again." Jack stated as he walked into his son's room. Jack stood behind his son and leaned over him. He took his son's hands and guided them as he reached for the tie. Both boys were looking in the mirror as Jack showed him one more time how to do it. Jack smiled at the concentration on his boy's face. His little tongue would barely stick out of his mouth when he was concentrating on something.
Jack remembered sitting at Superintendent Jackson's desk questioning if he should even take JJ. He truly didn't think he could care for a child. Once he met JJ, that doubt was gone. He loved this boy. His head knew he wasn't JJ's biological father, but his heart and soul didn't know it or just didn't care. JJ was Jack's son now. He wouldn't know how he could go a day without this boy in his life.
"Now, you look as handsome as anyone." Jack smiled as he patted JJ's shoulders.
"Almost as much as you."
"Honestly, I think you look just like your daddy in heaven."
"Thank you." JJ gave him a smile. He looked at Jack in the mirror. "Daddy, I'm glad you were the one to take me. At first, I didn't want to go with you."
"I didn't think I could care for a child. Superintendent Jackson asked me to meet you before making my decision. You won me over very quickly."
"You did too. I'm sorry I'm the reason for you to lose your job."
Jack turned his son around. "What are you talking about?"
"You're leaving the mounties because of me."
"I'm leaving the mounties because of my love for you and your mommy. I didn't lose my job. I left it to be home with you and mommy. JJ…I decided this. I love you and Elizabeth with all my heart. I want to be home with you two. I don't want to be away."
JJ nodded his head. He understood what Jack was saying and even agreed with it, but he still felt a little guilty about Jack not being a mountie any longer.
"JJ…you need to listen to me." Jack stated as she kneeled to his son's level. "I love you and Elizabeth with all my heart, with every ounce of strength that I have. I want to be here with you two. I want this life. Now, no more talk about me losing my job. I didn't lose it. I chose my family, and I will choose you two every day for the rest of my life."
After a long hug, JJ leaned back. "You're not wearing your mountie uniform?"
"No son. I am marrying Elizabeth as the man, Jack Thornton, not as a mountie. I wanted to wear my suit that is the same as yours. We are doing this together."
JJ smiled. "I can't wait. Is it time to go to the church?"
"It is. Do you have your gift for mommy?"
"I do." JJ stated as he patted his pocket. "So…?" JJ asked stretching his hands out to the side.
"Perfect like a picture." Jack smiled. Jack stepped back with his hand stretched out. "So…?"
"Perfect like a picture."
…
"Elizabeth…" Grace looked at her daughter. Elizabeth's dress was white. It fit her perfectly. It was long sleeves, but the sleeves were sheer. So, they wouldn't be too hot on a summer day. The sheer was along the top front of her dress. It gave her the modesty who was so much Elizabeth. From the waist up, the dress was perfectly form fitting. Grace didn't realize the beautiful figure Elizabeth had. She couldn't fit any better in this dress even if she was poured into it. The front of the dress did dip down a little too much for Elizabeth's liking, but the sheer material gave her the comforting feeling that she was covered well. The fabric was soft and flowed with her movement very well. It reacted as if it could read Elizabeth's mind and automatically moved with her body. There was a pattern on the dress, but it wasn't fighting for attention against the dress. It was delicate and only enhanced the design of the dress. From the waist down, the dress fell perfectly. It wasn't form fitting like the top. It flowed down her legs well. It wasn't puffy. The dress rested just at the floor. You couldn't see her shoes. Elizabeth's hair was up in a sophisticated style that showed off her face and neck. She normally didn't wear her hair up, so this look was very different for her. Elizabeth decided against a veil, but Abagail gave her a small cloth terraria that had a beautiful wild flower pattern on it. It matched her dress well. Abagail wore it at her first wedding.
"…you are the most beautiful bride I have ever seen." Grace whispered. Elizabeth took her breath.
"You think…?" Elizabeth whispered slowly. Doubt was evident in her voice. Elizabeth stood running her hands over the front of her dress trying to settle the dress down. The dress was already perfect. It was just her nerves coming through.
"I know it." Grace stated. Abagail and Mrs. P nodded their heads in agreement.
"Elizabeth…you are absolutely beautiful." Abagail smiled.
"Absolutely." Stated Mrs. P. "Elizabeth, you make that dress look incredibly beautiful."
All three ladies surrounded her. They each pointed out a few aspects of the dress that they loved.
…
Jack sat on the back porch of the row house. They were scheduled to leave in a few minutes for the church. He just wanted a moment for himself. He rubbed his hands together. First, he prayed.
"Father, help Elizabeth, JJ, and I as we become a true family today. As we walk this life together, may we always walk together. May we grow closer to each other and closer to you. God, help me be a good father and a good husband." Jack's voice trailed off. He kept his eyes closed and didn't put words to his prayer. He spoke silently to God. When he finished praying, he spoke out loud again.
"Pa…I hope to honor you with my life. I know I'm not perfect, but I do hope you are happy with me and my decisions. I'm taking everything you have ever taught me and trying my best to be the man and father you were."
Jack looked up when he felt a warm hand on his shoulder.
"Jack…your father would be very proud of the man you have become."
Jack looked up to see his mother looking at him.
"You think?"
"I know he would be. He would be so proud of you." Jack nodded his head. "Jack, you need to understand that you are not supposed to be your father. He has taught you. You have also learned through your own experiences. Take what he has taught you and what you have learned and be the best person you can be. For that, he will be proud. JJ doesn't need Tom to be his daddy. He needs Jack Thornton. Elizabeth doesn't need Tom to be her husband. She loves you. Just be who you are. Allow God and the lessons your Pa taught you to lead you. Walk this path with Elizabeth together. You three will be fine."
"I agree with Grandma Charlette." JJ stated. "Let's go daddy. It's time to become a true family."
Jack gave both Charlette and JJ a huge smile.
…
For the countless time, Jack walked to the church. He noticed a lot of people standing around. He was a little surprised at the amount of people present. While he may have walked toward the church almost every day, he has never smiled so big. He looked down when JJ took his hand. His smile grew at his little boy. He also knew that look from his boy.
"Go ahead." He nodded toward the café. "Go and check on her."
"I love you daddy!" JJ exclaimed as he shot off in a full run toward the café.
"Where is he going?" Frank asked as she stepped toward Jack.
"To check on his mommy. He wants to see her."
"I bet." Frank chuckled.
"He's excited."
"He isn't the only guy excited to see her."
"Yeah…I can't wait."
"I know it's hard to wait a few hours to see your bride." Frank said knowingly.
Jack looked at his friend for a few moments trying to gauge how much he knew. "You know?"
"Well…let's just say that a marriage isn't based on the luck of tradition. Instead, it is based on God and the two people getting married." Jack shook his head at his friend's grin.
"Amen to that." Jack lowered his head.
"Come on Jack. We will be in the back of the church where my things are until it's time."
…
"Mommy! Mommy!" JJ yelled as he ran into the café. He ran through the dining room and the kitchen. He ran up the stairs tying his best to climb them as fast as possible. He ran down the hallway and right into Elizabeth's room. He immediately stopped when he first saw her.
"Oh…mommy…you're…" He whispered just loud enough to be heard but he couldn't think of a word to correctly describe her. He stood perfectly still admiring his mommy.
"JJ…" Elizabeth smiled at her son. She didn't think she would see him before the ceremony. He was so handsome in his blue suit, a light yellow shirt, and white tie. She couldn't take her eyes of her little man.
"Mommy." JJ tried to say but his voice barely carried out of his mouth. "You're…absolutely…beautiful." He finally stated with a slow, soft voice.
"You think so?" She quietly asked. She saw the love in her boy's eyes. It melted her heart.
JJ nodded his head slowly at first and then enthusiastically. A smile growing on his little face. Grace, Abagail, and Mrs. P stood back and watched the interaction between mother and son. There was no doubt these two belonged together.
"Would you come here and give me a hug?"
"I don't want to get your dress dirty." He bashfully stated.
"I need to hug my son…I have a feeling I'm always going to be dirty around you." She playfully giggled.
JJ slowly walked toward his mommy never taking his eyes off her. He stopped in front of her when he was about two feet from her. He looked from her head to her toes and then back to her eyes. "You look like an angel." His voice was so filled with love that everyone in the room began to cry.
"You look very handsome." She said while wiping away a tear. "Where's my hug?"
After admiring her for another couple of seconds, he closed the distance between them. JJ gently wrapped his arms around her waist and lightly squeezed her. Elizabeth felt so loved in that moment.
Elizabeth wrapped her arms around her son and held him close. She didn't want to lose this moment with him. He was so gentle with her. He didn't want to get her dress dirty. It was the look of love in his eyes that melted her. She held on as long as he was willing to stay there. She just didn't want to let go. The other ladies quietly left the room. They sensed the moment the two were having and they didn't want to intrude. Elizabeth and JJ didn't know when they walked out of the room or closed the door.
"I don't think I have ever experienced anything like that." Mrs. P stated.
"Only when my son was born." Abagail stated.
"I agree." Grace stated as they made their way down the stairs.
JJ finally released his hold on his mommy. Elizabeth looked down and saw a tear in her son's eyes.
"JJ…what's wrong?"
"Nothing mommy." He wiped a tear away.
"Would you like to answer that again?" She laughed to herself when she realized that's what Jack would always say to him.
JJ shrugged his shoulders.
"Out with it." Elizabeth stated in a mother's tone.
"I just…"
Elizabeth took his little hand and lead him to her bed. She sat down on the corner of the bed and picked him up and sat him on her lap. "JJ…you're my son and I know something is wrong. What is it?"
When he looked up at Elizabeth with tears in his eyes, she almost lost it herself. She gave him another hug and held onto it for several seconds. When she felt him relax and loosen his grip, she pulled back just enough to look at her son. He laid his head on her chest, and she held him close. Finally, and in a soft voice, he began to speak.
"When my mommy and daddy died in that accident, I was so lost…I felt alone…" He sniffed. "I didn't know what was going to happen to me. The mounties kept me at the barracks and watched over me. I heard a couple of them talk about foster care. I have heard my daddy talk about it and it was never good. I was scared I would have to go there."
Elizabeth tightened her hold on JJ. Her boy was hurting, and her mommy's heart was hurting right along with his.
"I didn't know what was going to happen to me. I was so scared. Then one day Superintendent Jackson said that Mountie Jack was coming to see me. I knew his was my father's friend, but I have never met him."
"Oh JJ…that must have been so scary."
He nodded his head slightly. "I prayed Jack would let me live with him, but I didn't want to leave my home. All my friends were there. Superintendent Jackson said that if Constable Thornton would take me, I would have to move. I didn't want to do that, but I was so scared of staying."
Elizabeth's heart broke at the pain her son went through. Not only did he lose his mommy and daddy at the same time, but he was uprooted from his home and taken away from his friends. If she could have taken away that pain, she would have in a moment.
"Daddy talked about Jack all the time. I knew the stories, but I didn't know him at all. When I met him, he seemed nice. He agreed I would live with him. I felt better that I knew I was safe, but I still didn't want to leave my home. When I moved here, he lived in the back of the jail. We stayed with Auntie Abagail's for a couple of days. She was so kind to me. I love her. Then we moved to the row house. That's when you came here."
"I did. I'll tell you a little secret…I fell in love with you in five minutes of meeting you."
"I think I did too." His little voice trailed off. "Thank you for loving me."
"JJ, it's very easy to love you. I don't want to take your mommy in heaven's place, but you are my son too. I love you with all my heart."
He leaned into her chest more. She kissed him on the top of his head. Sitting on Elizabeth's lap with his head resting on her chest and her arms wrapped around him is his happy place. He felt comfortable and loved there.
"Staying with Jack got us closer. I do think of him as my daddy."
"He loves you very much."
"Yeah…and I think of you as my mommy."
"I love you, sweet boy."
"I love Auntie Abagail, and Grandma Grace, Grandma Charlette, Grandma Mrs. P, and Grandpa Mr. P."
"They all love you too."
"My family has grown."
"It has. You still have your mommy and daddy in heaven, and your new family. We love you very much."
"Thank you for agreeing to be my mommy."
"Thank you for letting me and thank you for being my son."
Elizabeth held JJ in her lap for several minutes. No more words were spoken. No words were needed. Both JJ and Elizabeth thanked God for each other and for Jack. They were grateful they found each other in this life.
After several minutes, there was a knock on the door. Grace slowly opened the door and leaned in slightly. "I'm sorry to interrupt, but it's time for us to go to the church."
"Thank you, mother."
Elizabeth turned her attention to her son. "Are you ok?"
"I am. Thank you, mommy."
"I love you, JJ."
"I love you, mommy." JJ raised his head from her chest and kissed her on the cheek. "I'll see you at the church soon."
Elizabeth nodded her head. She watched her son slowly climb off her lap and walk to the door. He turned around when he reached the door. "Mommy, you do look like an angel."
Elizabeth nodded her head and watched her son leave the bedroom. "Mother, I need a moment alone, please."
"Certainly dear." Grace gave her a loving smile. "Elizabeth." Grace stated as she began to close the door and then stopped. "You are a great mother."
Elizabeth nodded her head slightly. When the door closed, the flood gates of tears opened in Elizabeth's eyes. She felt every ounce of pain her little boy suffered even when she didn't know him. She felt relief he wasn't hurting any longer. She felt great joy that JJ loved her like a mommy. She loved him like a son. She was grateful for Jack. Their last few months were hard. Elizabeth thanked God for seeing them through those difficult times. She thanked God for her family and in just a few short minutes, it will be official in the court's eyes. However, they were already a family. She wished her father was walking her down the aisle, but she was grateful for the family she had there that was standing with her. She was grateful her mother came around and was supportive. To put everything in one word, Elizabeth was just thankful.
…
Jack looked up and watched JJ walk through Frank's door. He could tell his little boy had been crying. When their eyes connected, he knew his boy was fine. JJ walked into the open arms of his daddy. Jack held onto him for a few moments.
"How's mommy?"
"She's good."
"You?"
"I'm good. Thank you for letting me live with you and loving me."
"JJ, I love you. I wouldn't know what to do if you weren't in my life."
"Me too. Now, are you ready to marry mommy?"
"I am very ready to marry her. Are you ready?"
"I am."
"Do you have your surprise ready?"
"I do."
Jack, JJ, and Pastor Frank walked into the sanctuary of the church where Elizabeth usually teaches. Jack stopped when he noticed everything that was done. He didn't know who or how, but the whole church was decorated with beautiful, yet simple, decorations. Flowers were in every window and on two small stands by the door. There was an archway by the front where they were supposed to stand. The whole archway had beautiful flowers covering it. The church was full of people. Several were standing along the walls on each side. Jack would have thought everyone from Hope Valley was present. It wouldn't take much imagination to believe that. His future wife was greatly loved by everyone. Several people nodded their heads or smiled at him. Jack followed Pastor Frank and stood beside him when they reached the front. JJ stood beside him. He reached up for Jack's hand.
"Daddy." JJ whispered. "Mommy is very pretty."
"I bet she is."
…
Mr. P, along with his wife, Grace, Julie, and Abagail, escorted Elizabeth to the church. Abagail and Julie each hugged Elizabeth and kissed her on the cheek. When they walked into the church, they were escorted to their seats by some students who were helping to sit people. Mrs. P gave her favorite Thatcher daughter a long hug. She also kissed her on the cheek. "I love you little one."
"I love you, Mrs. P."
"You look beautiful."
"Thank you for everything." Elizabeth squeezed her hand to express her gratitude. They shared a look between themselves the each understood.
Grace stepped up with tears in her eyes. "I am very proud of you dear. I love you."
"I love you, mother."
When Grace turned to walk toward the door, she turned around to look at her daughter one last time. "I think JJ is correct…you do look like an angel."
Elizabeth smiled at her mother. "Mother, may I ask a favor of you?"
Grace walked back to her daughter. "Yes dear. What may I do for you?"
Elizabeth reached for her mother's hands. "Mother, would you walk me down the aisle with Mr. P?"
"Dear, are you sure?"
"I am."
"It would be my greatest honor."
Mr. P smiled at the two ladies in front of him. He looked at his pocket watch and knew it was time. He hated to interrupt the conversation but knew he would be in trouble with Elizabeth if he allowed them to be late. He also smiled at the desire of Elizabeth to have her mother escort her down the aisle.
"I'm sorry, Ms. Thatcher, but it's time."
"That's the last time I will be called Ms. Thatcher." Elizabeth smiled.
Mr. P stepped beside Elizabeth and offered his arm. Elizabeth willingly took it. Her mother stepped to the other side and gave the same gesture.
"Now, it's time unless you have changed your mind. Would you like to run away?" Mr. P smirked.
Elizabeth quickly looked in Mr. P's direction and noticed his smirk. She laughed. Elizabeth was grateful for the laughter. It settled the small amount of nerves that was building in her stomach.
"I wouldn't want to be anywhere else in this world."
"Let's go. There are two boys that are waiting for you inside."
Elizabeth's smile grew at the thought. "Let's go. My destiny is waiting for me."
…
Elizabeth, Grace, and Mr. P slowly climbed the stairs of the church. Elizabeth smiled at the two young boys from her class who opened the door for them. They took three steps into the church to a white, semi-transparent curtain that was hanging at the end of the small hallway before it opened to the sanctuary. They could see the outlines of people but couldn't make any details out. Elizabeth let out a long, slow breath.
"Are you ok, dear?"
"I'm fine mother. Just very ready for this."
"We go when the music changes." Elizabeth nodded her head. "The piano player is very talented." Mr. P stated softly.
"That's Cat Mongomery. She is very talented."
"I remember you wrote about her." Grace smiled.
Elizabeth nodded her head but continued to look forward. She thought she knew where Jack was, but she didn't see his red serge. She was beginning to fidget with her flowers. Grace reached up and placed her arm on Elizbeth's forearm. "Soon…"
When the music stopped, Elizabeth began to move forward but Mr. P stopped her. Without looking at her, he whispered. "The music will begin, and the curtain will open. That's our que."
Elizabeth sighed her frustration. Everything inside Elizabeth was ready for this. Suddenly the curtain opened, and the music changed at the same time. Elizabeth's eyes immediately focused on Jack. Their eyes instantly found each other. Jack's dimples were growing, and it made Elizabeth's legs weak.
"Dimples…"
"Bella…"
They whispered to themselves.
Elizabeth broke eye contact with Jack and looked him over. She was shocked he wasn't wearing his mountie uniform. However, he was very handsome in his blue suit with a light yellow shirt and white tie. He was dressed just like JJ. Jack had a purple daisy on his lapel while JJ had a yellow one, her two favorite colors.
Jack's eyes roamed all of Elizabeth. The wedding dress was stunningly gorgeous. In Jack's mind, it wasn't the dress that made her beautiful. Her hair was up. He couldn't remember if he ever saw her hair up like that. He has seen it in a pony tail a few times, but not up like this. Her makeup was perfectly Elizabeth. It wasn't too much. He thought it added to her natural beauty. His breath was caught in his throat. He may have been inhaling, but no air was reaching his lungs. He didn't even notice when JJ reached for his hand. He was so consumed with his beautiful bride standing several yards away from him. Jack looked up and their eyes met again. His dimpled smile only grew at the realization that Elizabeth would soon be his wife.
When their eyes met for the second time, Elizabeth couldn't wait any longer. Their journey to this point in their lives was a long one. There were many bumps along the way. They made it through each silly and bad decision and over every hurdle. Today was the day their destiny finally came together as it was meant to be. She couldn't wait any longer. She immediately took a step to run toward her love.
Mr. P had a death grip on Elizabeth's arm. "Patience." He whispered.
"Patience?" Elizabeth huffed. "Come on." She began to pull Mr. P's arm.
"Elizabeth." Grace stated as she reached for Elizabeth's other arm. "Patience."
Elizabeth shot her mother a death stare. She had no desire for patience or to be patient. She was a few yards from her husband and son. Mr. P turned to face her while still holding a firm grip on Elizabeth's hand.
"This is the moment you fought for, for so long. You had a long road to be here in this moment. In that process, you learned a lot about yourself, about Jack, and about JJ. You had to climb mountains to look down the aisle at your family. Now, take a moment and enjoy the fruit of all that hard work. You fell in love with that little boy. By all accounts, you are his mother. You had to reconcile with Jack and that took great effort. Yet, you proved yourself to be true to him. He knows your heart now. He is waiting for his bride to walk down the aisle…not to run to him. Live in this moment for a few seconds."
Elizabeth nodded her head. She understood his meaning, but it just wasn't happening. If she would take a second to look around, she would have noticed how beautiful the church and schoolhouse were decorated. Many of her students and several ladies spend hours decorating it. She would have noticed the beautiful curtain or the fabric that was hanging on each row where people were sitting. She would have seen the countless wildflowers and daisies that were in the windows and around the arch. There was a small platform where Frank was standing that was adorned with flowers. The church was gorgeous in its decoration. However, Elizabeth only noticed the hazel eyes of the man in front of her. She had to get to him.
Jack couldn't take his eyes off his Bella. She was literally breath taking. In his mountie travels, he has seen some beautiful scenes of mountains and water, but nothing could compare to this beautiful woman standing in front of him. JJ was right, she looked like an angel. Jack bit his bottom lip admiring his future wife. He always prided himself on the fact that he loved Elizabeth for countless reasons. She was much more than one thing. Yes, she was beautiful, but that was never in the top five reasons why he loved her. Today, however, all he could look at was this beautiful woman who is about to be his wife. He leaned forward and took a half a step to walk toward her. Frank saw what he was about to do and reached for his arm. "Patience Jack." Jack looked over his shoulder and gave his good friend an annoyed look.
When Jack took that step, Elizabeth immediately began walking toward the front. There was no one that was going to keep her from her destiny. She has kept that promise since she arrived back in Hope Valley. Mr. P didn't even try to stop here this time. Instead, he walked with her and just tried to slow her down a little.
Elizabeth, Grace, and Mr. P stepped in front of Pastor Frank and beside a smiling Jack. It was easy to see the love in his eyes for his bride.
Pastor Frank began the ceremony speaking about the importance of marriage and its true meaning, Elizabeth and Jack didn't hear a word. He was just background noise. They were completely lost in each other. While Elizabeth was the most beautiful woman he has ever seen, she thought he was devilishly handsome. Better looking than any man has a right to be. Frank continued speaking but everyone's attention was on the young couple. They were mere feet apart. Grace and Mr. P was still holding Elizabeth's hands, but her focus was on the man in front of her.
"Elizabeth…" Jack whispered. There were thousands of things he wanted to say, but he just couldn't think of anything. She not only stole his breath, but his mind as well.
Elizabeth nodded her head in understanding. Their nonverbal communication was strong. It took some time and effort, but she could read Jack like her favorite book again. She knew the love written all over his face. Their smiles grew at the love connection between them.
Mr. P just smiled at the display. Frank had finished speaking. He just asked who gave this bride away, but Jack and Elizabeth didn't hear a word of it. Mr. P slightly pulled on Elizabeth's arm with enough force to get her attention. As she spoke, she never took her eyes off Jack.
"Yeah…"
"It's 'yes' mommy." JJ sassed.
Elizabeth and Jack looked down at JJ when everyone's laughter broke their connection. Elizabeth could only nod in agreement.
"We are in the middle of something here. Maybe you two should pay attention to the pastor." Mr. P playfully smirked.
Jack and Elizabeth nodded their heads with a little chuckle.
"Jack…why are you not wearing your uniform? Where is your red serge?" Elizabeth whispered.
"I'm marrying you as a man named Jack, not as a mountie." Elizabeth nodded her head.
"Now…where was I?" Laughed Frank. "Oh yeah…who gives this woman to be wedded to this man?"
Mr. P looked at Grace. "Her father and I."
"And Mrs. Pacifico and I." Mr. P gave Grace a nod at her insistence that he speak too.
Jack stepped forward to accept Elizabeth's hands that Mr. P and Grace extended to give to Jack. When their hands touched, both felt the electricity surge through their bodies. Elizabeth stepped closer to Jack. He pulled her closer. He was so lost in his bride. He leaned in and kissed her on the cheek.
"You're getting a head of me, young man." Frank playfully warned.
"Sorry." Jack stated as his face turned a little red.
"For some reason, I don't believe you." Frank whispered to Elizabeth's soft laugh.
Elizabeth looked down when she felt her son take her free hand. She pulled JJ to stand in front of her and Jack. They were standing together as a family. Frank smiled at this little family. They may be officially a family today, but the truth be told, they have been one for a while now.
"Dearly beloved, we are gathered together this afternoon in the sight of God, and in the presence of these witnesses, to join together Jack and Elizabeth in holy matrimony, which is an honorable estate, instituted of God in this holy union. Christ adorned and sanctified this holy estate."
Frank stopped looking around and focused on Jack and Elziabeth. He offered them a smile before he began to speak.
"Jack and Elizabeth, I require and charge you both as you stand in the presence of God, to remember that the commitment to marriage is a commitment to permanence. It is the intent of God that your marriage will be for life, and that only death will separate you.
"If the vows you exchange today be kept without violation and if you seek always to know and do the will of God, your lives will be blessed with His presence, and your home will abide in His peace."
JJ looked up and smiled at his mom and dad. "This is really happening…" He whispered. Both Jack and Elizabeth squeezed his shoulders.
"Jack, please repeat after me."
Jack nodded his head. As Frank stated the next section, he paused after a few words so Jack and Elizabeth could easily repeat after him.
"In the name of God…I, Jack, take you, Elizabeth…to be my wife…to have and to hold…from this day forward…for better, for worse…for richer for poorer…in sickness and in health…to love and to cherish…until we are parted by death…This is my solemn vow to you."
"Elizabeth, please repeat after me."
Elizabeth nodded her head. Just like with Jack, Frank paused after a few words so Elizabeth could repeat after him.
"In the name of God…I, Elizabeth, take you, Jack…to be my husband…to have and to hold…from this day forward…for better, for worse…for richer and poorer…in sickness and in health…to love and to cherish…until we are parted by death…This is my solemn vow to you."
During the repeating of the words, Jack and Elizabeth never lost eye contact. They were completely lost in each other, and they were better for it. The whole church was lost to them. Both of their dreams were coming true.
"Jack and Elizabeth have decided to say their vows. Jack, would you please go first."
Jack cleared his throat. "Elizabeth, I choose you and no other. Your happiness is the only question I want to spend my life answering. Your heart is the only flame I will endeavor to keep alight. So, I marry you today without hesitation or doubt. I'm committed to you absolutely. I love you with everything that I am. Forever."
"JJ, it's your turn." Pastor Frank stated. Elizabeth gasped at Frank's words. She didn't know her little boy was going to say anything. She immediately looked down and to her right where JJ was standing. He wiggled his finger for her to bend down like he usually does. His smile engulfed her. Elziabeth kneeled in front of her little boy. He reached with his left hand to take her hand. With his right hand, he reached into his breast pocket. He pulled out a small box. He learned from watching Jack that you should look the person you love in the eyes. He did just that.
"Mommy…" JJ took a deep breath. He was determined to get through this without crying. "…from the first time I met you in Auntie Abagail's café, you became very important to me. The first night you read five stories to me. The second night you wrapped me in your arms and we slept on the couch. I loved you then, and I love you now. I'm not going to be perfect, but I will promise you that I will always love you with all of my heart." JJ reached up with the hand that was holding the box to wipe away a tear. "I was blessed with two of the best mommies ever." He took a deep breath. "Thank you for choosing me."
If Elizabeth could see the crowd through her tears, she would have noticed that everyone in the pews was crying. She wanted to wipe away the tears, but she wasn't willing to take her eyes off her boy.
JJ let go of her hand and opened the box he was holding. There was a beautiful, small necklace that matched her ring that he gave her when he and Jack proposed to her. The necklace held a small charm with the word "Mommy" hanging from it. Elizabeth didn't even try to hold back her tears. This little boy was just priceless to her. He offered her the box he was holding.
"I love you JJ. Would you please put the necklace on me?" She asked with tears running down her cheek with a smile on her face.
JJ smiled as he took the necklace out of the box. He moved behind her. With Jack's help, he placed the necklace around his mother's neck. Elizabeth reached up and fingered the charm. JJ leaned forward and gave her a sweet kiss on the cheek.
Elizabeth slowly stood and turned to face Jack. Tears streamed down her face. Jack handed her a handkerchief so she could dry her eyes.
"Elizabeth, would you please say your vows to Jack."
Elizabeth looked to Frank and then to Jack. The tears from JJ's words were still streaming down her face. She took a deep breath.
"Relax. Take a moment. Don't forget to breathe." Jack whispered to her.
Elizabeth took a moment to reign in her emotions. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She opened her eyes to the love of her life.
"Jack, I never expected to find love when I came to Coal Valley. But, somewhere along the way, without even realizing it was happening, you became the most important person in my life." Her gaze steady as love shines in her eyes. A single tear streams down her face as she continues. "You're my shoulder to cry on, my favorite to dream with, and my greatest surprise. I'd offer you my heart, but the truth is, you've had it for quite some time now. Instead, I give you my soul. I love you, Jack Thornton. From chalk dust to eternity…I'm yours."
Frank stepped forward holding Elizabeth's wedding band. He handed it to Jack. "Jack. Please repeat after me as you place this ring on Elizabeth's ring finger."
Jack accepted the ring and nodded his head.
"I give you this ring…as a symbol of my love…and with all that I am…and all that I have…I honor you…in the name of the Father…and of the Son…and of the Holy Spirit."
Jack smiled as he repeated the words Frank spoke. When he finished. He reached for Elizabeth's hand. He never broke eye contact with his bride. He placed the ring on Elizabeth's ring finger gently. He raised her hand and kissed the back of her hand.
"Elizabeth, please repeat after me." Frank stated as he handed her Jack's ring.
"I give you this ring…as a symbol of my love…and with all that I am…and all that I have…I honor you…in the name of the Father…and of the Son…and of the Holy Spirit."
Elizabeth smiled as she spoke the same words as Jack. She placed the ring on Jack's ring finger without breaking eye contact.
Frank waited a moment before speaking out of respect for the love that was exuding from the young couple. "Jack and Elizabeth asked me to share their Bible verse with you. First Corinthians 13:4-7 states, 'Love is patient and kind; love does not envy our boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things."
Frank spoke in a louder voice so everyone could hear him.
"Ladies and Gentlemen. With the power invested in me as a minister of the Gospel of Christ and through the Province of Alberta…I am honored to present to you for the first time. Mr. Jack and Mrs. Elizabeth Thornton." He paused as everyone cheered. "Jack…you may kiss…"
Before he could continue, Jack leaned forward and kissed Elizabeth somewhat passionately in front of everyone.
"I love you, Mrs. Thornton."
"I love you, Mr. Thornton."
"I love you mommy and daddy."