This chapter was either going to be really long or broken into two; I opted for the split, so I can let my imagination play a little bit. There is a conversation included that wasn't even on my radar at first, but after a comment in the Support the Serge discussion group (how most people are making Elizabeth account for her actions before Nathan agrees to a relationship with her), I realized that I skipped that entirely. I stand by the happy, sappy instant relationship I started this story with because even if I have neglected to mention the worst of Elizabeth's misdeeds from season eight, Nathan has still been through hell and deserves to get what he wants. And up to the disastrous end of the last season, he wanted Elizabeth. It might be out of place for a honeymoon, but I prefer to think of it as building their marriage on full honesty.
Chapter Sixteen
Nathan tried to forget about whatever was tickling his nose, as he was otherwise perfectly content exactly where he was, but once he had acknowledged the sensation, it was impossible to ignore. Reaching up to brush it aside, he realized it was a strand of Elizabeth's hair, and that there was a lot more of it. She was wrapped tightly around him, her head pressed under his chin and her limbs tangled with his. He grinned, relishing the simple pleasure of watching her sleep.
He had awakened shortly after sunrise, as was his custom. He got up to check the fire and the stove, trying not to wake Elizabeth, but she was watching for him as he returned to bed. When she turned to him, he quickly forgot all about coffee, breakfast, and making plans for the day as they made love and fell back to sleep. A glance at the clock beside the bed told him it was now approaching noon, and the need for food was overtaking even his wife's beauty.
Elizabeth stirred and opened her eyes, smiling when she met Nathan's tender gaze. "Good morning, husband," she murmured sleepily, leaning up to kiss him before snuggling back against his chest.
Nathan thrilled hearing the title. "Good morning, wife," he teased back. "Or more accurately, good afternoon."
Elizabeth's eyes shot open and she picked her head up enough to look around the room. "I can't remember the last time I slept this late. Actually, I don't think I've ever slept this late."
He leaned in, speaking softly as he pointed out, "Well, we didn't sleep much last night…"
She blushed but sighed happily, a satisfied grin on her face as she met his eyes again. "Or this morning…"
He kissed her because he couldn't stop himself but pulled away before passion took hold of them again. "So, what do you want to do today?"
She gave him a pointed look then glanced around the room. "I am perfectly happy to stay right where we are."
"As am I," he agreed. "But we are going to need sustenance. There's nothing here except cookies and some fruit, not enough to tide either one of us over."
Elizabeth pouted, absently running her hand back and forth across his chest as she pressed her cheek over his heart. "I'm not ready to share you with the rest of the world yet."
"Room service it is then." Nathan caught her fingers, kissing them before slipping out of bed. "I'll call down to the lodge."
She watched unabashed as he dressed, pulling on casual pants and a Henley. He winked at her as he went out into the other room, his suspenders still hanging at his sides and the top two buttons of his shirt unfastened.
Shivering now that she didn't have his warmth beside her, Elizabeth pulled on her nightgown and robe and then made her way to the washroom to brush her teeth and wash her face. Combing her hair out, she pulled it into a loose braid. She then set about gathering the clothes they'd left scattered in their passionate haste last night. Her dress had at least been draped over a chair, while Nathan's tux and shirt had been left where they fell. Her stockings, corset, and petticoat had met the same fate. Looking around curiously, she didn't see any of their shoes.
Hanging up the phone, Nathan's breath caught when Elizabeth stepped out into the main room. In her bare feet and silk robe, she looked absolutely beautiful. And chilled. She hastily crossed the floor and burrowed into his arms.
"Why didn't you pack something warmer?" he chided gently, holding her close. "I know you have a sturdier robe than this!"
"First, because I didn't bring my warm robe and cozy slippers with me to Hamilton," she defended. "In case you haven't noticed, it's rather unheard of for anyone to be going around my parents' house in their pajamas. And secondly, I thought with this being our honeymoon and all, there would be…other ways of staying warm, but if you're not willing, I'll find a blanket …" She loosened her hold on his waist and started to turn.
Nathan pulled her back, sinking onto the sofa and settling her across his lap. He tugged the blanket off the back and tucked it around her. "Is this better?" he asked, leaving a trail of soft kisses along her cheek and neck.
"Hmmm…. much," she hummed, running her fingers through his hair.
Nathan grinned, his lips just a breath away from hers when someone knocked on the front door. Sighing, he eased out from under her and went to open the door, greeting Mrs. Campe and taking the proffered tray.
They enjoyed the hearty lunch, sharing pieces of warm buttered bread between bites of beef stew. After they ate, Nathan went into the bedroom, returning with a pair of his thick wool socks, which he slid onto his wife's chilly feet. She settled back on the couch while he added a log to the fire.
"How did we get here?" she asked out of the blue.
"A long train trip and then a bit of a car ride," Nathan replied, mostly in jest but puzzled by her question.
Elizabeth sighed and shook her head, holding the edge of the blanket up for him and nestling closer when he sat down. She stared at the flames dancing behind the grate for a moment before she spoke again. "How did we end up here, together? How were you able to just forget about everything I put you through?"
Nathan frowned, surprised by the unexpected turn in her mood. "What brought this on?"
She shrugged, reaching up to touch the stubble on his jaw. "It's just…I've never felt this…. content. Peaceful. This loved. Jack and I were happy together, don't get me wrong, but it was never like this. I always knew that a part of him would be with the Mounties, even after we were married. No matter how strong his feelings for me, I was never going to be his only love. Now there's you and us and all this…and I wonder if I even deserve it." Before he could say anything, she continued. "I was terrible to you, to a lot of people really, and you just forgave me and forgot all about it. How did you do it?"
Nathan smiled softly, catching her fingers and holding them to his cheek. "I wouldn't say I just forgot about it. I admit, I was pretty hurt and angry for a while. It was incredibly painful to watch you with Lucas—sitting together at church, out riding, walking down the street holding his hand. And seeing Allie's pain was even worse." Elizabeth flinched but he paused to kiss her captured fingers before continuing. "Deep down I knew you weren't yourself. You were working overtime to protect your heart from being hurt again. I remembered the brave woman I met when I came to town, putting her life back together and raising her child. I also realized that it wasn't just me you were pushing away, but everyone you were closest to. Rosemary, Lee, Bill…the people who connected you most to Jack. When I saw you start mending fences with them, I hoped you would find your way back to yourself, and then maybe you and I would have a chance."
"I didn't even realize I was pushing everyone away," Elizabeth admitted. "And I certainly never put together that it was all the people I associated with Jack, but you're right. Rosemary, his first love and Lee, his best friend. Bill, his father figure and mentor." She finally met his eyes, falling deeply into the blue depths. "And you, the man who came to take his place."
Nathan hugged her closer. "I saw chinks in your relationship with Lucas, and I just kept hoping you would find them, too, especially when it came to your son. I had quite a few conversations with God about you, and more than I ever expected with your friends. They were worried about you too, you know. Bill was just waiting for the opportunity to try to talk some sense into you, and Rosemary only managed to hold her tongue because Lee made her promise not to interfere."
"They still managed to get a few comments in," she admitted. "Not that I was ready to listen."
"But you started to hear them and seemed to be seeing me in a different light again. When you finally told me you loved me, it was a dream come true. There was no point in holding on to my pain and bitterness. If we were going to have a relationship, start building a life together, we needed a fresh start, so I let go of the pain and anger."
Nathan could all but taste her relief when their lips met in a passionate kiss.
"You made it easier when you talked to Allie," he added, cradling her face and gazing into her eyes. "You were so determined to make things right for her. I would have forgiven you for all of my pain just for that."
They spent the afternoon cuddling in front of the fire, enjoying not being needed by anyone else. Their conversation flowed easily, turning less introspective and more comfortable—favorite moments from the wedding, how they missed the simple fare at Abigail's instead of the fancy cuisine at her parents', the blessedly cooperative weather, and more. They agreed about how much they missed the children and debated calling them but decided to wait until closer to their bedtime again. As they were both typically active people, and Elizabeth inclined to being more social, they decided to venture down to the lodge for supper and made plans to explore the resort the next day. Elizabeth wanted to walk over to the trading post to shop, hoping to find quilts and things for their new house. When Nathan teased her, she assured him she had appropriate attire and shoes for such an excursion.
"It's only indoors that I was planning for alternate means of warmth and activity," she retorted, leading to lots of kisses on the sofa and culminating with them in making love in front of the fire.
Nathan didn't mention it aloud, but he knew Elizabeth was waiting for some sort of interruption, for him to be called away like Jack was. It was part of the reason he'd agreed to the suggestion that they go away for a brief honeymoon, to help set her mind at ease. He hoped that breakfast at the lodge in the morning and spending the day exploring together would help keep her distracted.
They were chatting with the Campes' daughter, Jessica, when Elizabeth shared their intention to see the resort and surrounding area.
"It's too bad we don't have Newton and Sargent with us," she added. "I bet they'd love the trails around here."
At Jessica's puzzled look, Nathan explained. "Our horses."
Elizabeth laughed. "My poor husband, the Mountie, hasn't seen a saddle in over a month."
"You could borrow our horses," Jessica suggested. "We don't usually loan them to guests, but I'm sure my parents won't mind, you being a Mountie and all. Daisy is a good girl, and I'm sure Dandy would appreciate a break from pulling the carriage."
"Dandy?" Elizabeth struggling to keep straight face while Nathan chuckled.
Jessica laughed. "It's short for Dandelion. We let my daughter name them, and she loves flowers. We also have a cow named Daffodil, goats Lily and Rose, and the chickens are Holly, Ivy, Peony, and Tulip."
"Dare I ask the rooster's name?" Nathan teased.
While Elizabeth finished her conversation, Nathan went with Josiah to get the horses ready. He was waiting with them in front of the lodge when his good intentions were put to the test.
"Nathan Grant," he heard behind him. "I didn't expect to see you here."
Nathan turned, gripping the reins for both horses in one hand as he raised the other to salute Superintendent O'Reilly.
"At ease," Patrick insisted, smiling. "I don't know about you, but I'm on vacation."
Nathan grinned back, nodding. "On my honeymoon, sir."
O'Reilly's eyes widened and he glanced back towards the lodge, catching sight of Elizabeth. "Congratulations. I have to say, I'm surprised you chose to come this far from Hope Valley. I know that town is quite special for both of you."
Nathan sighed. "We have actually been in Hamilton for a few weeks, so this place is a welcome break from the city."
"Ah yes," Patrick said, nodding. "William Thatcher's accident. I assume he is recovering well?"
"Yes, sir, he is, though he still has a long road ahead of him. That's why Elizabeth and I decided to marry fairly quietly in Hamilton, so her father could be a part of our wedding. It's going to be quite some time before he's able to travel to Hope Valley again." The purpose for the Superintendent's visit worried in the back of Nathan's mind, and he glanced over to make sure his wife was still occupied. Pushing his roiling emotions aside, he tried to continue the conversation calmly. "Elizabeth, the children, and I are all looking forward to going home next week. We should be settled back in Hope Valley by New Year's."
The other man sensed Nathan's unease. "You think I'm here to give you a new assignment," he stated.
"I did consider that possibility, sir," Nathan replied matter-of-factly.
Patrick chuckled, shaking his head. "First, like I said, I'm on vacation, so the only orders I'm worried about this week are my wife's. Second, even if we were planning to reassign you, the Northwest Mounted Police aren't going to steal another honeymoon from Elizabeth Thornton, not after everything we've taken from her. Lastly, and this is in strictest confidence, Constable," he warned, dropping his voice. "Unless you request to move, you are likely looking at a permanent placement in Hope Valley. The Northwest Mounted Police can't afford to keep losing good men to the women and charms of that town. Thornton, Avery, now you… You're doing a great job there and have the respect of the town as well as your fellow Mounties. I don't see any reason to stir things up."
Nathan sighed with relief and grinned. "Thank you, sir."
They shook hands and Patrick left, having promised his children a snowman. Nathan debated telling Elizabeth about the O'Reilly's presence, not wanting her to worry. His concern was unfounded, as he soon learned. The woman Elizabeth has been talking to outside the lodge was Mary O'Reilly, and they had been comparing stories about life with and loving a Mountie. Mary knew Elizabeth and Jack's history, as her husband's position in Cape Fullerton and subsequent promotions were a result of him taking Jack's place. Elizabeth had written to thank her for uprooting her child and their life to take the assignment, and they had exchanged letters for a while. They lost touch when Jack died, Elizabeth's grief too strong to do more than read the sympathetic words in the O'Reilly's card. Both women were pleased to have finally met in person and reconnect, hoping to resume their friendship.
"And look at these beauties," Elizabeth said, stepping between the horses and running her hands down their sleek necks. She leaned in to talk softly to both of them, fingering their manes and trying to earn their trust. "We are going to have so much fun today, aren't we?"
Nathan shook his head, smiling. "Here I was afraid running into Superintendent O'Reilly and his family would upset you, and there you are, perfectly fine. I guess you don't need my protection as much as I thought."
Elizabeth turned from her equine companions. Stepping closer and wrapping her arms around his waist, she assured him, "I will always need you. I know you worry about me, especially when it comes to Mountie work, and I promise I will tell you when I'm struggling. But today is not one of those days."
He held her close for a moment with his free arm, until one of the horses stamped in impatience.
"Alright," he laughed. "We're going."
Elizabeth looked confused when he tied Daisy's reins to the post and led her towards the taller horse. "Mr. Campe said Daisy can be a bit of handful, while Dandy here is more laid back. I know you're an excellent rider, and I trust Newton and Sargent with you implicitly, but here I'd feel better with you on the calmer horse."
Elizabeth nodded and accepted the boost onto Dandy's back, waiting patiently as Nathan adjusted her stirrups and then mounted Daisy. They had studied a map of the area over breakfast and now made their way to the trail around the lake. There was some quiet conversation, but they mostly rode contently side by side, taking in the beauty around them. The snow on the tips and tops of the trees made for a picturesque setting, while the ice shapes in the lake and along the beach were breathtaking.
They easily found the small outpost, barely more than a general store/trading post and a saloon. Everyone they met was friendly, and Elizabeth was pleased with the selection of goods in the store. She found quilts, linens, and even a small table that Nathan agreed would look perfect in their new living room. He followed along, amazed at his wife's ability not only to bargain, but to make easy conversation with everyone they met.
They finished shopping and went to the saloon for lunch. Elizabeth was happily telling their waitress that they were on their honeymoon, as well as about Allie, Jack, and the wonders of Hope Valley. She couldn't help but sound proud when she spoke of Nathan's job as a Mountie.
"Wouldn't it be special if your son followed his father into the Mounted Police?" the young woman said naively.
Elizabeth shivered and her eyes filled with tears. "The very thought of that terrifies me. His father and grandfather both died young from injuries sustained in the line of duty. I couldn't bear to lose him that way, too."
The waitress looked devastated to have caused such pain. Nathan smiled reassuringly and nodded for her to go as he slid his chair closer and took Elizabeth into his arms.
"What if my son is cursed?" Elizabeth whispered against his chest. "What if he's destined to die young, too?"
Nathan shushed her, running his hand up and down her back. "Not to speak ill of Thomas or Jack Thornton, but they saw things differently than I do. For them, duty came before everything else, including their families. You know I love my job, but that's what it is. A job. You and our kids are more important, and I will always put you first. Jack is going to see that. If he does enlist later, he is going to know there is more to being a Mountie than just serving."
Nathan helped her into her coat and led her back outside. They stood silently for several minutes, gathering their thoughts.
"You have at least fourteen years before they will even consider Jack for the academy," he assured her. "You should know though, being a third-generation legacy and given the reputations of his father and grandfather, he is all but guaranteed a place if he wants it."
"And his stepfather," Elizabeth added, reaching for his hand and squeezing it. "You're a part of him, too."
Nathan smiled sheepishly, keeping hold of her hand as they walked towards the horses. "Maybe when he's older, Jack and Allie can spend part of their summers helping Charlotte on her ranch, then go see your father's business in Hamilton. We will make sure our children experience as much as they can, that they know they can do anything."
They rode back to the resort, having arranged to have most of their purchases shipped directly to Hope Valley. After returning Daisy and Dandy to the stable, they strolled back to the cabin hand in hand.
"Look!" Elizabeth exclaimed quietly, pulling him to a stop.
A red cardinal perched on a branch several feet in front of them, his bright feathers a stunning contrast to the white snow and green needles around him.
"Do you remember…?"
Nathan pulled her into a kiss, smiling against her lips. "How could I forget? That was one of the best and worst days of my life," he replied. "When we were in the woods looking for a tree, walking so close together and talking…there really was nowhere else I wanted to be in that moment. I almost told you…"
"Told me what?" Elizabeth probed gently.
Nathan shrugged and watched the cardinal for a moment before meeting her gaze again. "About the promotion, for one, but I almost told you I was falling in love with you. I was trying to get the courage up to ask you to dinner when Allie interrupted."
Elizabeth blushed, her own memories flooding back. "I wish you had said something," she admitted. "Maybe not 'I love you', but that you were interested. I wasn't ready to move on just yet, but I felt something then, too."
Nathan sighed. "And later…with the ornament…I had you all but wrapped in my arms. I wanted so badly to kiss you."
Elizabeth draped her own arms around his neck, smiling. "I wanted you to kiss me. It terrified me, but at the same time…"
"If only…" Nathan closed his eyes and groaned. "If we had just put ourselves out there…we wouldn't have had the confusion with Lucas…and maybe we could have gotten together sooner."
Elizabeth stood on her toes and pressed her lips to his. "We found our way, that's what matters," she said. "We both needed more time to find ourselves before we were ready for each other."