Two days after their last counseling session with Joseph and Nathan's departure, Elizabeth still hadn't left the house. Rosemary and Julie were highly concerned. Elizabeth would sit on the back step, watching Jack play in the yard, but refused to go anywhere despite their urging. Even assurances that they didn't think less of her by Joseph, Minnie, Florence, and Molly didn't pull her out of her wallowing and self-imposed pity party.

It was Bill who finally suggested they involve Charlotte or, as he put it, bring in the big gun. As soon as Julie and Rosemary returned home, that was just what they did. Charlotte arranged to call Elizabeth the following day after Julie managed to get Jack out of the house, leaving Elizabeth alone.

The next morning, Julie had Jack already dressed, fed, and almost cleaned up when Elizabeth came downstairs. After greeting her, Jack went over to play with his toys, leaving his aunt and mother to talk.

"You are certainly up early this morning," Elizabeth said. "Are you going somewhere?"

"Yes, I am meeting Bill to go over the bill of sale for the dress shop so Father can arrange to transfer the funds." Elizabeth could hear the pride in Julie's voice, yet was surprised at how fast she was getting things done.

"Oh, you talked to Father already about your plan? Is he okay with it?"

"Yes, he is. In fact, he is going to loan me the money, and I will repay it rather than using my trust fund. He feels I have a solid business plan and can be successful at it. We have already signed the loan documents and everything. He is treating the deal just like he would any other. Oh, Beth, he even told me how proud he was of me." Julie said, her eyes brimming with happy tears. "It has been so long since I felt that from him."

"When did all of this happen?" Elizabeth said, her own eyes brimming with happiness for her sister.

"Over the last two days while you have been wallowing in your pity party," Julie replied softly, her tone reflecting her annoyance and hurt.

"Anyway, after meeting Bill, I am meeting with Fiona and Lee to discuss having my things shipped from Hamilton. I thought it would be good for Jack to get out of these four walls and see other people."

"Oh Julie, I guess I have been self-absorbed, haven't I?"

"Yes, you have," Julie whispered unapologetically. Then she turned to Jack. "You ready to go see Uncle Bill?"

"Let's go!" Jack exclaimed happily. "Can we see Sargent? Maybe Newton is back, and I can see Mountie Nathan too."

"We will see you later, Beth."

"Bye, Mama," Jack called out, practically racing to open the door.

"You two have a good time. Mind your manners, Jack." Elizabeth called as they headed out the door.

Elizabeth sat there and could hear when they met up with Rosemary. Since the voices became fainter, she knew Rosemary wouldn't be coming by. With a heavy sigh, she got up, prepared some tea, and grabbed a muffin. She was staring into space as she thought about what Julie had said when the phone rang.

"Hello?"

"Elizabeth Thornton, do I need to make a trip to Hope Valley to knock some sense into you?" Charlotte's voice rang out.

"Charlotte?"

"Is there someone else who would want to come do it?" Charlotte teased with a chuckle.

"Of course not!" Elizabeth shot back in exasperation.

"So, what's this I hear about you being holed up in your house for the past three days?"

"Who told you? Let me guess, Julie, Rosemary, or Bill?"

"Doesn't matter, however, according to them, you feel a kinship with Hester Prynne? Since I can't see you becoming an adulterer since I saw you last or ever, what is this all about?"

Elizabeth tearfully explained about the counseling along with Nathan's revelation that others saw the two kisses shared with Lucas to her shame.

"You think you deserve that title because of the two kisses you exchanged with Bouchard in public?" Charlotte said, clearly confused.

"But Charlotte, one of them, our first actually, was seen by some of my students." Charlotte easily heard Elizabeth's sorrow and distress in the confession.

"I get that, and it may not have been ideal, but do you think your students never saw a kiss between you and Jack? That they don't understand that couple's kiss? You got carried away, and being outdoors, it is always possible someone will see you."

"Yes, but…" Elizabeth began, but Charlotte interrupted.

"Have the others shunned you in town? I would say no since it appears that you weren't even aware of it until it was brought to your attention by Nathan. If I have learned anything about small towns, especially Hope Valley, if the women felt that way about you, then you would have known it from the start, not almost a year later. Florence and Molly especially would not have kept quiet if they thought your behavior was questionable. You need to get over your embarrassment and thinking that you've committed an unpardonable sin. The community has already forgiven you, that is, if they even considered the behavior was not up to your usual impeccable performance.

"I've been trying to, but it is hard. Just when I think I can get past it and decide to go into town, I get to the door, and the doubts crowd in again."

"Look, you are not the first woman to fall for a smooth-talking charmer, and you won't be the last," Charlotte said flatly. "What is important is that you learn from your mistake, pick yourself up, and make better choices in the future, starting with Bouchard."

"You don't have to worry about that. I've already told him that we're through," Elizabeth explained, filling Charlotte in on everything that had happened since she got back from Hamilton and what Julie had found out. "He keeps saying that he will fight for our love even though I have told him there's no love to fight for."

"Is that so?" Charlotte growled. "You know, maybe it is time me and my shotgun make a trip to Hope Valley."

Elizabeth giggled. "As much as I would love to see you and the look on his face, I think we should hold off. Besides, I think Bill and Rosie can handle it if he doesn't give up."

Both women laughed at the thought of him facing off against Bill. "You are right about that. Bill Avery has a look that could send a grizzly running."

"I promise to let you know if he doesn't give up."

"You do that. I have to go, but If I get another call that you are still hiding, I'll be on my way as soon as I hang up, Lizzie."

Elizabeth chuckled. "I understand. I love you, Charlotte, and thank you for always being there."

"Where else would I be? I love you too and kiss Jack for me and tell him Nana Charlie loves him. I might come to visit over Christmas and let Tom handle things. Maybe even get a look at your Mountie while I'm at it."

Then, she disconnected the call without another word. Elizabeth sat there thinking about all that Charlotte had said and picturing a rifle-wielding Charlotte confronting a cowering Lucas. Before she could even get up, there was a knock at her door.

"Henry!" Elizabeth said, surprised to see him standing on her step. It was the first time he had ever made the trip to her home.

"Hello, Elizabeth. I wanted to talk with you a bit. May I come in?"

"Of course," Elizabeth said, stepping back to let him in. "Can I get you some tea? I was just about to refresh my cup. Or I can make a pot of coffee just as quick if you prefer?"

"That would be nice if it's not too much trouble."

"Not at all. Let me get it started. I think I'll join you and have some too. Have you eaten? I have some muffins I baked yesterday."

"Actually, I haven't had the chance to eat, so a muffin would be welcome. I thank you!"

"Henry sat at her kitchen table while she prepared their coffee and plated two muffins. After bringing everything to the table, she sat opposite Henry and waited.

"I wanted to come because I heard about what happened in your counseling and how you were feeling."

"I wondered if that might be the case. It seems to be the theme of my morning," Elizabeth said sheepishly.

"Well, just so you know, it's not public knowledge. It's just the Coal Valley people and the Canfields." Henry assured her. "We care about you and are all worried."

Elizabeth smiled and placed a comforting hand over Henry's. "I know."

"Well, I'm certainly the last person to speak of morals or behavior. However, you have told me that I should put the past behind me and hold my head up, and now I'm doing the same to you. No one thinks ill of you because of what took place, so you shouldn't let it keep you hiding yourself away because of what people think."

"I think Charlotte finally got through to me, but your coming here and throwing my words back kind of sealed it for me, too."

"I'm glad I could help," Henry said shyly. Elizabeth noticed as they sat for a minute something was bothering him.

"Is there something else wrong, Henry?"

Henry sat looking into his coffee cup for a long moment before looking back at her and sighing. "I'm not sure yet, Elizabeth. But do you recall the man Lucas met when you returned from Hamilton?"

"Elizabeth thought for a moment. "Yes, he was an older gentleman. I think he said his name was Smith, but I don't recall his first name."

"That's him, though his first name is Jerome. Jerome Smith. He's an investor that Lucas is bringing on board.

"I sense that you don't seem happy about that."

"I'm all too familiar with him from our early days here in Coal Valley and Northwest Pacific Mining."

"OH!" Elizabeth said, startled to hear that name. "The mine is closed, so what could he want with the Oil Company?"

"I don't know, but you can bet it isn't good," Henry replied tersely.

"Is there anything I can do?"

"For now, just keep it between us. But I may need you to be in my corner."

"What do you mean to be in your corner?"

"There are still some hard feelings with folks in town and distrust, which I deserve. If something goes south, they will assume it is my fault regardless of what is true."

Elizabeth hesitated. "I can promise you that as long as you are on the right side, I'll always be there, Henry."

"Elizabeth, I promise that I won't violate that trust. Your and Abigail's faith in me means everything. I hope you will always think it's not misplaced."

"I know, Henry," Elizabeth said softly, reaching over to hug him.

"Well, I'd best be going," Henry said, standing quickly, shy at the show of affection. He paused as he opened the door to look back at her. "Elizabeth, please remember what I said about holding your head up?"

"I will.

Elizabeth watched Henry head towards town, and she made an instant decision. "Henry! Wait!"

She quickly caught up to him. "Might as well stop hiding right now. Sargent probably needs a run. I hope to find Jack and have him go with me. Besides, it will be easier if I am not alone." Elizabeth said, making Henry chuckle.

"I suppose walking in with a fellow town pariah would be better." Henry teased.

Elizabeth giggled. "Henry, did you just make a joke?"

Henry chuckled. "If you have to ask Elizabeth, apparently not a good one!" Then he winked, and they laughed, causing others to look over. But instead of frowning, it caused smiles to break out. Reaching the town center, Elizabeth headed towards Bill's office while Henry went to his office.

As she approached Bill's office, she could hear her son's belly laughs, followed by Bill's chuckles. With a smile, she knocked and then walked in.

"Mama!" Jack replied, climbing off Bill's lap and jumping in her arms.

"Well, what a pleasant surprise this is," Bill said. "I thought we might need a crowbar to pry you out."

"Very funny, Bill," Elizabeth said, trying to be serious. I know that you probably had a hand in Charlotte's calling. In fact, I imagine you have already talked to her today."

"We were just worried about you, sweet girl," Bill said, hugging her.

"I know. But I came to see if I could steal my favorite boy away for a ride on Sargent. I thought I would ride out and see Belinda."

"She probably would enjoy that. She asked about you yesterday when she was in town."

"Did she?"

"Yeah, we were having coffee together."

Oh really?" Elizabeth said with a wide grin.

"Before you get started down that road, it's nothing. I am running for mayor and being neighborly."

"Sure, Bill," Elizabeth teased. "Have you seen Julie? I wanted to tell her where I was going. I walked in with Henry on the spur of the moment, so I didn't leave her a note."

"She and Fiona are over in the dress shop, I believe. They are as thick as thieves these days as well as Faith."

"That's good. I know they miss Clara. I do, too." Elizabeth said wistfully.

"Oh, that reminds me, I received a letter from her today. I haven't opened it yet."

Bill went over to his desk and grabbed it before joining Elizabeth on the settee in his office. Opening the envelope, he began to read out loud.

"Hmmm," Bill said as he scanned the letter. "We have a goat, six chickens, a dog, and 5 acres, all ours."

"That's a lot to look after. Where are Jesse and Clara?" Elizabeth asked.

"They finally settled on a homestead in Montana," Bill replied.

"I wish they hadn't moved so far away, though. I wonder why they chose Montana?" Elizabeth mused.

"I know," Bill said. "But when the land is free, Elizabeth, something like that is hard to pass up."

"I suppose."

"Oh, Jesse is digging a new well since the first one dried up. Neither of us can remember the last time we saw a drop of rain, but our spirits remain high, and we're happy. Well, it's time to milk Mags, our goat. Please say hello to everyone. Love, Clara." Bill said.

"I remember my few days on a homestead when I watched two of my students." Elizabeth chuckled. "I still remember the look on everyone's face when I offered. I don't think I have ever been so tired in my life."

"That's where the cowbell came from, right?"

"Yes, they renamed their cow Lizzie in my honor. Since the school bell hadn't come in yet, Jack gave me the cowbell. I couldn't imagine using anything else. However, we do use the church bell in the morning."

"Well, I guess we will leave you to your work," Elizabeth said. Giving Bill a hug after standing up. "Jack, why don't we find Aunt Julie and Miss Fiona and then go on a ride?"

"Okay! Bye, Uncle Bill!" Jack said, heading towards the door.

"Shall I give your regards to Belinda, Bill?" Elizabeth teased with a grin.

Bill just gave her a mock glare as she walked out the door.

MEANWHILE AT THE DERRICKS

Henry was approaching the oil derrick when he heard Mike talking with Jerome. Lucas and Fiona were standing there as well, and he still couldn't figure out how Jerome got involved and who was responsible for it. But the surreptitious looks that he was giving Henry as he approached did nothing to alleviate his concerns, and it was time to find out.

"Crude oil prices are projected to reach $3.00 a barrel," Mike said as Henry came to a stop beside him.

Before he could say anything more Henry jumped into the conversation. "I expected that you'd be level-headed, Mike. That's why I put you in charge when I left.

Jerome scowled at him while Lucas, the gracious host, said, "Henry, I'd like to introduce you to Jerome Smith.

"Oh, I know who Jerome is. Do you? I'm surprised you'd even consider going into business with him."

Lucas looked taken aback at Henry's words, but there was a subtle look in his eyes that made it clear he was not unaware. Mike and Fiona just looked uneasily upon the situation that was brewing.

Pasting on his familiar smarmy smile Jerome said, "How've you been, Henry?"

Ignoring his question Henry looked once again at Mike "You didn't think that perhaps this situation would warrant a telephone call from you?"

Feeling a bit defensive now Mike shot back arms spread down at his sides in frustration. "I didn't even know how to find you."

Fiona quickly came to Mike's defense "Henry, I was the one..."

But Jerome didn't let her finish and after placing a hand on her back moved to stand in front of her to address Henry directly. Henry couldn't help but notice Lucas standing there with his hands in his pockets, observing what was going on. His lips were drawn thin and there was a look of anger in them as he watched.

"Henry, I represent a consortium of investors and I'd welcome the chance for us to sit and talk."

"The only thing I need to say I can say standing here right now. If you're going to be involved in this company, you'll be doing it without me." He glanced over and made eye contact with Lucas, and the other man immediately looked down to the ground, avoiding his gaze. Shifting his eyes back to Jerome he saw Jerome's conciliatory smile was gone, and he was all business a hint of steel had entered his eyes, and his tone was glacial.

"You know, I don't respond well to a threat."

Henry scoffed and chuckled mirthlessly as he began backing away from the group, clearly sending the message that it wasn't a threat. Looking over at Fiona and Mike, he said, "Keep that in mind." Before turning and walking away.

As they watched him go, Jerome turned to them and said, "Well, I suppose an explanation is in order for the rest of you. I engaged Henry some time ago, putting him in charge of the mines here when this was still known as Coal Valley, and I was with the Pacific Northwest Mining Company."

At that point, Mike's attitude changed, and anger began blazing in his eyes. He clenched his fists at his sides as the other man continued. "Needless to say, he and I parted less than amicably. Shall we continue?"

Mike stood there unsure of what to do and glanced over at Lucas for direction. It was a well-known fact how the mining disaster and subsequent closure of it had impacted the town. There were still widows and children of those killed walking the streets today.

"Of course, Mike, lead the way, won't you?" Lucas had replied, staring him down as if daring him to refuse.

Letting out a heavy sigh of frustration, Mike said, "Follow me."

As Mike led Jerome away, Lucas placed a restraining arm on Fiona. "Fiona. Did you know about Henry and Jerome?"

"I knew they had done previous business together, but not that it involved the mine. But Mike had no idea. What are we going to do?"

"We are going to keep it quiet for now. Henry isn't going to want it spread in town, so I don't foresee a problem just yet. If it becomes one, I'll address it then."

"But Lucas…" Fiona said not comfortable with that plan.

Lucas held one hand up as he fixed her in place with an icy glare and warned again, "Not a word, Fiona." Then he stepped over until he was three inches from her face and softly said, "Understand?"

Combined with the look, it was very menacing, and she had no choice but to agree as tears welled up in her eyes. Then he smiled as if nothing happened, offered his arms, and said, "Shall we?"