"Elizabeth, I need to ask you something." Rosemary and Elizabeth were sharing an afternoon cup of tea over at the Coulter's home. Baby Goldie was taking a nap and little Jack had run off with the older kids, delighted he could play to his heart's content. Elizabeth relished her son's happiness, but also these moments with her best friend. She had been her rock during the turmoil of her broken engagement to Lucas Bouchard. Truth be told, Rosemary was her one true touchstone. Elizabeth's world without Rosemary in it… well, she didn't even want to think about it!
"What's going on?" Elizabeth asked, as she took a fortifying sip of tea. She was about to reach for one of her friend's famous oatmeal raisin cookies when Rosemary responded in a rush.
"The town wants to hold a celebratory ball for Lucas and his governorship win. However, no one wants to upset you."
Elizabeth blinked. Sometimes it amazed her just how much the people of Hope Valley took care of each other. Putting down her cup of tea with a light clatter on the table, she took a deep breath and looked at her friend.
"Rosemary, it's alright. I think it's a wonderful idea to have a ball to celebrate Lucas's win. After all, it's the town's win too. We all must move on from our broken engagement. I'm fine… it was the right thing to do. Staying in Hope Valley and raising little Jack here is what's right for me. Lucas was destined for the governorship and the bigger stage that Capitol City provides."
Rosemary nodded. She agreed wholeheartedly with Elizabeth, but Rosemary also knew her friend was sidestepping an important subject - Nathan Grant.
"Elizabeth," Rosemary said gently, "What about Nathan?"
"What about him?" Elizabeth asked lightly, reaching once again for her cup of tea.
Rosemary rolled her eyes and straightened her posture. "When are you going to admit you're in love with him?"
Tried as she could, Elizabeth wasn't able to control the tears welling up in her eyes. "Rosemary… how did this even happen? I tried to guard my heart, and I thought I was being very careful! I realize now I chose Lucas because he was safe… but I ended up hurting him, Nathan, even Allie! He will never forgive me. It's been over a month since the election and he's more withdrawn than ever. For a second, I thought there was something between us…that day Bill found us and announced that Lucas needed our help. Since then, I know Nathan has been avoiding me, and I'll admit I've been doing the same. I needed to retreat to garner a better understanding of my feelings…"
Rosemary's heart went out to her. She took Elizabeth's hand and squeezed it. "And have you? Have you finally understood what's in your heart?"
Taking a deep breath, Elizabeth finally exclaimed, "I'm in love with him!" Her eyes widened as she pronounced the feelings that had been living within her unacknowledged for quite some time. "But will he ever forgive me?"
"Elizabeth, you're the bravest woman I've ever known. You can't cower now. You must tell him how you feel. Considering the progression of events over the years, I am sure he would be apprehensive to approach you first. I really do think it's up to you."
"I'm scared he won't forgive me, Rosemary," Elizabeth sadly pointed out. "And I must say, I don't think I deserve his forgiveness either." Her voice broke, tears burning her throat.
"You must stop thinking this way! He's a steadfast man with a kind heart! A noble man who has been in love with you from day one, and he's still in love with you. He never stopped."
"You think so?" Elizabeth asked in a small voice.
"I know so. You should have seen how he looked at you in that sad excuse for a wedding dress that was sent by mistake."
Elizabeth's gaze turned hopeful.
Rosemary continued, "I do believe even in that horrid gown he thought you were the most beautiful creature on the face of the earth. His every pore exuded love."
"I know I have to do what I've been afraid of doing… talk to him and ask for his forgiveness."
"Maybe the ball will be the perfect setting for that conversation!" Rosemary said excitedly. "Oh, Elizabeth, we can go shopping in Union City for new gowns, and book appointments with Mei for that new mud facial. Maybe a new hairstyle? Your look should be complete perfection for that evening!"
Elizabeth smiled through her watery eyes. It was easy to get swept up in Rosemary's enthusiasm. She just hoped she was brave enough to do what needed to be done.
###
The day of the celebration ball was finally upon them. It was going to be held at the former Queen of Hearts Saloon. Lucas left Mike Hickam in charge with carte blanche to do as he wanted with the business, remaining as a silent partner during his tenure as governor. The first order of business was turning the saloon into a venue for events like the celebration ball. There was an area sectioned off for games and gambling, but Mike wanted the place to be recognized more for its hotel setup and fine dining thanks to Gustave's cuisine.
The town went all out to celebrate one of its own. Florence and Molly took care of the decorations, while Fiona and Mei organized the music and entertainment. Lee and Rosemary had chosen the drinks and hors d'oeuvres to be served. Everybody donned their fanciest attire for an elegant evening in the town.
Elizabeth looked resplendent, clad in a dusty pink dress with delicate lace detailing. Rosemary had insisted on a new hairstyle, but Elizabeth just wanted to look like herself, albeit a bit fancier. She chose a half updo, with a few curls framing her face, and her long wavy chestnut mane cascading down her back. As she entered the saloon, everyone was taken aback at how beautiful their town teacher looked. Elizabeth was Hope Valley's darling. Her beauty was only outshone by her overall goodness.
Nathan was off to the side indulging in a pint when Elizabeth made her entrance. Immediately his breath caught in his throat. How this woman could turn his world upside down just by existing was beyond him, but it was the hard truth. He had loved her then, he loved her now, and he would continue to love her until his dying day. He had tried, God knew he had tried to move on, but his attempts at dating Mei and Faith were utter failures. He told Elizabeth one evening he didn't think love was for someone like him. He still felt the same way. His stoic training as a Mountie helped him cope, but he knew that in another set of circumstances, he might have fled Hope Valley in the throes of her rejection. Deep down Nathan knew it wouldn't have been fair to either him or Allie to leave. Hope Valley was their home and Allie deserved the stability the town provided. However, he also had to recognize that even though Elizabeth chose Lucas, he still wanted to be near her, even if it was just as a friend.
Elizabeth scanned the room once she entered, and her eyes locked with Nathan's. A shy smile curved her lips. As she started to make her way towards him, Lucas intercepted her.
"Elizabeth, I hope we can let bygones be bygones. Would you care to dance, for old times' sake?" Lucas looked dashing in his gray tailored suit, looking every bit the politician.
Remembering a Founder's Day dance way back when, Elizabeth decided she wasn't going to repeat past mistakes. The memory of Nathan's crestfallen expression as she danced with Lucas invaded her, prompting her to say, "I appreciate the offer, Lucas. I hope you know I only wish you the best. However, I must decline. There's something I must do."
"Elizabeth, for whatever it's worth, I know your heart has been his for a while. I only held on with the foolish hope it might be otherwise," Lucas smiled ruefully. "I hope you can forgive me."
"I don't believe I have anything to forgive… the wrongdoings have been mine, but I intend to do things right this time."
"I'm sure you will, Elizabeth. I'm sure you will." Lucas nodded in a gentlemanly fashion as she left his side and made a beeline for where Nathan stood on the other side of the room.
Not a fan of crowds, Nathan decided to step out of the saloon for some fresh air. Seeing Elizabeth with Bouchard again brought forth a lot of feelings he'd buried deep. He had tried to stick around and celebrate with the entire town, but he felt overwhelmed. Even though he'd dared to feel a glimmer of hope after learning of the broken engagement, every time he remembered how she'd said I can't when he'd bared his heart to her, he ached. He tried to approach Elizabeth over the past few weeks…but the more he thought about it, the trepidation continued to sink in. Somehow, he felt like she needed to be the one to come to him. He didn't think he'd survive if she rejected him again.
Nathan heard the slight squeak of the saloon door opening and looked over his shoulder. His eyes softened when he saw it was Elizabeth. All former thoughts were rendered null and void as he gazed at her. She looked so pretty in her pink gown. Would he ever get the chance to tell her how beautiful she was? Would he ever be able to touch those chestnut tresses that fell down her back? He smiled wryly at the turn his contemplations had taken.
"Leaving early, 'Lizbeth?" Nathan asked, deciding to shove aside his meandering thoughts.
"I could ask you the same thing," she replied. Elizabeth smiled softly. Nathan felt his skin prickling as it always did when she bestowed her magnificent smile upon him.
"You know I'm not a fan of big gatherings," he said succinctly.
"I remember. I was wondering if you might say yes to a dance with me," Elizabeth said lightly, a bit of shyness tinging her voice.
And with that request, Nathan felt a tiny spark light up his heart with hope.
"I want to make up for past mistakes," she added, gently, but resolutely.
"Say no more," Nathan acquiesced with an extended hand.
He held her hand firmly, and Elizabeth undeniably felt the strength of his touch. Her insides quivered as she realized she wasn't immune to him! They made their way back into the saloon, drawing the gazes of everyone gathered. The faces and sounds of the crowd faded away as they solely focused on each other. Both felt suspended in time and space… where they were and who was present wiped clean from their consciousness.
The notes of a blissfully lyrical Chopin waltz drifted through the air. Elizabeth gasped softly as Nathan placed his hand around her waist and drew her close for the dance. His eyes never left hers as he led her deftly in harmonious movement to the music. During those precious minutes it was just the two of them wrapped in their own cloud of quiet romance. Elizabeth didn't want the waltz to end. Little did she know Nathan felt the same way.
As the final notes of the music faded away, Nathan, still holding Elizabeth's hand in his, brought it to his chest. The music stopped playing, but they continued to sway, a subtle transfer of weight from foot to foot. Elizabeth felt his breath on her face, and her gaze was drawn to his lips, where she immediately wondered how they would feel against hers.
Was that longing in her eyes? Nathan wondered. His heart was hammering in his chest, and he wondered if she could feel it. He desperately wanted to kiss her but snapped out of his reverie once he saw Lee and Rosemary approach them. Elizabeth immediately felt his body tense, and her dreamlike trance was shattered.
As he released her, Elizabeth felt herself be whisked away by Rosemary, while Lee tried to engage Nathan in conversation. Feeling a bit frantic, she looked over her shoulder, only to be assuaged by his sheepishly charming smile. Maybe they'd broken apart for the moment, but she was hopeful they would find their way back to each other again before the night was over.
"Rosemary, what on earth is going on?" Elizabeth finally found the wherewithal to ask her friend.
"Elizabeth, the music ended and you two were the only ones left on the dance floor. It was like you were both spellbound! Mike announced a champagne toast to the new governor while you both stood there swaying completely clueless. Lee and I had to do something!"
Elizabeth felt the heat of complete and utter embarrassment. She didn't have to ask, as she already knew everyone had noticed.
Understanding her friend's predicament, Rosemary said, "Don't feel self-conscious, Elizabeth. What we all witnessed was exceptionally beautiful. We all love you and Nathan and couldn't be happier to see you two find your way to each other."
Elizabeth didn't have time to ponder what had transpired. The evening flew by in a whirlwind of toasts, speeches, singing, and dancing. Every time she tried to approach Nathan, someone intercepted them, foiling any attempt to spend any more time together. Finally, it was time for Elizabeth to leave, as she needed to relieve Allie of her babysitting duties. She felt slightly bereft but maybe she could send a message via Allie to Nathan once she got home.
However, Nathan noticed she was ready to leave. Letting himself be led by instinct he said, "'Lizbeth, if you're leaving, I could walk with you." Nathan's husky voice wafted over Elizabeth like a gentle summer breeze.
"That would be wonderful," she replied.
He noticed Elizabeth's cheeks were turning a fetching shade of pink. It would be so easy to reach out and cup her cheek… he longed to touch her, but the time wasn't right. Not just yet.
"That way I can walk Allie home as well," he added clumsily.
Trying to not feel a bit crestfallen, Elizabeth replied, "That works out then." They kept their gaze on each other for a few seconds more than ordinary, and Elizabeth felt overcome. Trying to keep the conversation in safe territory, she said, "She's so good with Jack. It's a blessing to have her take care of him."
"Well, she loves him."
"Little Jack is easy to love. So is Allie," Elizabeth pointed out.
Nathan knew Elizabeth loved his daughter. He knew she loved all her students. But her words… mentioning her son along with his daughter while speaking words of love, stirred his heart in ways he hadn't thought possible.
They started walking down Main Street in the direction of the rowhouses. It was a gorgeous night. The moon shone brightly, casting an almost ethereal glow upon the town. It felt like a night full of possibilities.
"Do you mind taking the long way to the rowhouses?" Nathan asked.
"Not at all. I was wondering…could we talk?" Elizabeth asked tentatively.
"Of course." They walked in companionable silence, stopping at a makeshift bench her students had fashioned. Located behind the school grounds, it was a popular spot for snacks during recess.
Taking a deep breath, Nathan finally took the plunge. He needed to find out, and he wasn't known to beat about the bush. He spoke the words he had been so afraid of asking. "Why did you break off the engagement, 'Lizbeth?"
Elizabeth sat and looked down. She forcibly shut her eyes, gathering her courage. As she opened them and looked into his, she finally confessed. "I could give you several reasons, but in the end, it was because of you, Nathan. Because I realized it's you who's in my heart."
Nathan looked into Elizabeth's eyes and was immediately lost. He remembered a while back at the pond nearby, he asked her what was in her heart. The context had been different then, but now… now it felt like they had finally arrived full circle.
Instinctively he lifted his hand, tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear. It was a liberty he had never dared take before. The soft touch of his fingers against her skin made Elizabeth shudder. Was this really happening, thought Eliz abeth, as she felt herself so affected by his touch? Like a flash, the few moments when they'd shared contact in the past rushed through Nathan. The brush of their fingers at the library, how they held hands during Fiona's silly game, and how she'd rushed into his arms in a desperate hug after he'd arrived from that unfortunate hostage event. He'd felt her heart pounding against his then and it had taken all his strength to finally release her.
The urge to kiss Elizabeth invaded Nathan once again, but he needed more from her. He needed to be absolutely sure. Whispering, he asked, "When you said I'm in your heart, what exactly do you mean?"
Looking at his handsome face, Elizabeth felt herself melting under his gaze. Nathan had become everything, and she was completely and irrevocably in love with him. She knew in no uncertain terms that life without him would be an empty life indeed.
Elizabeth suddenly felt Nathan's hands spanning her waist. When had she stood up from the bench? Why was Nathan looking at her with such a brilliant smile? As his face got closer to hers, and she felt her breath mingling with his, realization struck Elizabeth. She had spoken the words out loud! Her heart had taken over and she'd poured forth her declaration of love.
Nathan's gleaming blue eyes bore deep into Elizabeth's, and he whispered, his lips hovering over hers, "You have always been in my heart. You never left. Now I know I can lay my heart in your hands. I'm so in love with you, Elizabeth Thornton." The tiniest whimper bubbled forth from Elizabeth, as Nathan gently took her lips with his. His touch was tentative at first, but her subtle whimper lit a fire within Nathan he'd never experienced. His hands traveled up her arms, raising goosebumps over her delicate flesh, finally framing her face. His thumbs tenderly brushed her cheeks as he molded his lips to Elizabeth's in the most earth-shattering kiss she'd ever received.
It was only now, it was only him, it was only this. Elizabeth felt with every fiber of her being this was right. Finally, there were no doubts.
The soft plundering of his lips washed away every thought and both yielded to the heady sensations of their heart-stopping kiss. Elizabeth felt herself opening to him, and the feel of Nathan tasting her overloaded her senses. Her knees weakening, she grasped his shoulders, her short fingernails digging into his suit jacket.
Nathan couldn't believe Elizabeth was finally in his arms. He had known for the longest time, but now he was more than certain this was where she belonged. She was the most perfect fit… in his arms, in his life, in his heart. She was so soft, so pliant, tasting faintly of champagne, chocolate, and berries. The effect was intoxicating, not even coming close to any fantasy he might have entertained over the years.
Her body understanding what her mind had wanted to avoid for so long, Elizabeth pressed herself even closer to Nathan, sliding her arms over his shoulders, her hands finding the nape of his neck. It would be up to him to gentle the kiss and bring them back to earth. However, Nathan had to admit, as he softly fluttered kisses over her cheek, he wouldn't mind staying in the clouds for a while.
Keeping Elizabeth in the circle of his arms, Nathan asked softly, "Am I dreaming?"
"If you are, we're both having the same wonderful dream." Reacting to the way Nathan intently warmed her with his gaze, Elizabeth lowered her lashes, her eyes falling on the beautiful curve of his lips. She felt the most daring impulse to trace those lips with the tip of her forefinger, but held back. Elizabeth opted to look into his turquoise eyes and say again what was in her heart. "I love you, Nathan Grant."
"And I love you, 'Lizbeth. I've never stopped." For the life of him, Nathan couldn't let her go. He knew it was late and he needed to take Allie home. The evening had to come to an end. "Could I see you tomorrow afternoon? I have rounds in the morning."
"Yes, Nathan. I would love to see you tomorrow afternoon."
Nathan closed his eyes, letting her voice and the way his name sounded on her lips wash over him. "Until tomorrow then," he whispered, as he took one of her hands and brought it up to his lips for a gentle kiss.
Elizabeth didn't know how they made their way back to her house. It was as if space and time had disappeared once again, and she only existed in the ephemeral haze of the romantic evening they'd just shared. They arrived at the rowhouse and within minutes, Nathan left with a sleepy Allie in tow. As she stood in her doorway, she watched them walk away. Nathan looked back with a knowing smile on his face. Elizabeth exhaled. After giving him a tiny wave and a smile, she closed the door behind her.
The evening had been a fairytale. She couldn't wait to see him again tomorrow… and wondered what the light of day might bring.
###
Elizabeth didn't sleep a wink. She gave up at the crack of dawn and decided to rise and do some baking. Working with her hands helped her channel nervous energy.
"Elizabeth, what in the world?" Rosemary stood in the doorway a few hours later, baffled over the banana bread and corn muffin production.
"I couldn't sleep. And then this happened." Elizabeth blew a curl off her forehead.
"So…. Do you have anything to tell me?" Rosemary asked, smiling widely.
Elizabeth blushed. It seemed like blushing was all she could do over the last 24 hours. She wanted to share all the recent developments with her best friend, but it didn't seem like the right time.
"Let's just say I felt like a princess in a dream last night," Elizabeth smiled softly.
"Oh Elizabeth, did you kiss?!" Rosemary couldn't contain her excitement. Her friend's delicate pink flush turned a furious blazing red, completely giving her away. "Say no more! It's written all over your face! I think it's marvelous!" Rosemary clasped her hands together like a schoolgirl. "So, are you seeing each other again? What's the plan? You seriously can't even think about dating. You're way beyond that and you've known each other for far too long. Will he propose? Oh my goodness, Elizabeth, what if he proposes soon?"
"Rosemary!" Elizabeth practically shouted. "Get a hold of yourself! Could you just let me see the man this afternoon and see how we get along in this new fashion in the light of day?"
"Oooh, that's perfect! You're seeing each other again today! I'll take little Jack home with me. You can stay out as long as you want." Rosemary sashayed out of Elizabeth's home the same way she sauntered her way in, dramatically and with intent. Elizabeth chuckled and shook her head. Her friend was a force of nature and she wouldn't want her any other way! Taking a deep breath, Elizabeth laid her hands at her hips, examining the explosion in her kitchen. Well, at least the clean-up would take care of the rest of the morning!
Later that day, while Elizabeth waited for Nathan to arrive, she sat on the stoop in front of her house. Little Jack was running around, when at a distance she saw the unmistakable red serge of Nathan's Mountie uniform. Seeing him approach the rowhouses, Elizabeth got up and smoothed her hands over her skirt, sending Jack off with Rosemary and Lee. Nathan dismounted Newton with his usual grace and approached Elizabeth, his body language a mix of confidence with the slightest hint of hesitation.
"Hello."
"Hi."
They both spoke at the same time, eliciting chuckles from them both.
"Are you as nervous as I am?" Elizabeth asked.
"Yes, but I don't know why we should be. We've been friends for a long time," Nathan responded.
"You're right. But I do believe we might be… slightly more than friends now?" Elizabeth asked, albeit a tad apprehensively.
"You believe correctly, 'Lizbeth," Nathan said, his fingers brushing hers as his hand finally firmly grasped hers.
"There's something I must say, before we can… before we can continue to decipher whatever this is between us."
"There's nothing to decipher, 'Lizbeth. We love each other. We're in love and I want to spend as much time with you as possible, until I finally ask you to marry me."
Elizabeth's heart wanted to burst out of her chest, but the need to say the following words was too great. "Nathan, I have to ask your forgiveness!"
"Whatever for, 'Lizbeth?"
"For rejecting you when you said you loved me. For telling you I couldn't love you when it was obvious I already did. For choosing Lucas and going through with that engagement. For the hurt I caused you and Allie." Her eyes welled with tears. "Allie feels like my daughter. Well, all my students feel like my children. But I have a special spot for her in my heart. I can't believe what I put her through…"
"Elizabeth, look at me." Nathan enunciated her name in its proper fashion, drawing her immediate attention. "I forgave you a long time ago."
"You did?" Elizabeth whispered.
"Yes, my darling, I did. Love always forgives. And love is all I have for you."
"Nathan, I don't deserve you."
Elizabeth's clear blue eyes, glossy with tears, were almost his undoing.
"Maybe," his lips curved in a playful smile, "but that doesn't matter. I have been waiting for you for so long, loving you from afar for so long, I am not about to let go now that I know you're in love with me."
Elizabeth smiled dolefully. Sensing something else might be on her mind, Nathan encouraged her gently, needing her to share her thoughts.
"There's something else I need to say…" Elizabeth tenderly laid her hands near his shoulders, lightly grazing his serge. "For the longest time, when I saw this uniform, I only saw Jack and how he had been taken from me. Seeing you occupy the position he held in Hope Valley was very difficult to process. Grief is different for everyone, but putting myself back together after Jack died is the hardest thing I've ever done. But one day, while visiting his grave, I realized putting myself back together if I ever lost you would be even more difficult. Just know, Nathan, that while Jack will always have a special place in my heart, when I see you in this serge now… I only see you."
A single solitary tear ran down Nathan's cheek, feeling the profound impact of her words. Elizabeth reached over to gently wipe it away with her thumb, but Nathan took advantage of the opportunity to clasp her hand with his. He reverently kissed the palm of her hand, his gentlemanly gesture causing tiny shivers to run through her spine.
"Can I kiss you, 'Lizbeth? Now, in the light of day?"
Elizabeth replied with a short, concise, breathy "yes".
Their lips met with equal fervor, both pouring every single emotion into their kiss. It was easy to mistake things by moonlight, but under the brilliant sun it was clear what was once a fantasy for Nathan, had become the most resplendent reality he could've ever hoped for. As for Elizabeth, she finally stepped into the sunlight, letting the true love of her heart finally shine through.