Elizabeth rested against Nathan's chest with a full heart. His hand was rubbing slow circles against her back, the feeling soothing and romantic at the same time. Eyes closed, she felt a pang of regret fill her. "To think we could have had this much sooner," she murmured. "If only I hadn't run from my fear. If only I had given you the chance you deserved all those months ago."

Nathan's hand stilled before she felt a low chuckle rumble through his chest. He pressed a kiss to her head, and she could hear the smile in his voice. "We can't change the past, Elizabeth. Everything that happened is now a part of our history." He pulled her closer. "But our future is wide open, love. We can make it a beautiful story."

She pulled back, staring up at him. "When did you become a poet?"

That earned an outright laugh from her husband. "I wouldn't call myself a poet," he said, his eyes twinkling with the same mischievous light Elizabeth had seen in Allie's eyes before. "You're the writer, not me." He winked. "But I would like to play the part of your romantic lead in our love story."

Elizabeth laughed, leaning her head against his chest again. "You are the only one I want," she said, her arms tightening around him. "In fact, I'm thinking of asking Rosemary if I can publish a series of short love stories in The Valley Voice." She smiled up at him shyly. "I have the perfect inspiration for the hero of said stories."

Nathan sucked in a breath, the tenderness and hope in his eyes melting Elizabeth's heart. "I'm honored," he said, his crooked smile appearing on his handsome face. "But short stories? I thought you wanted to write novels."

Elizabeth took his hand, leading him to the settee. She kept his hand in hers as they sat. "I thought I did," she admitted. "My dreams were always to be a teacher and a published author." She tilted her head, content to stare into her husband's stunning blue eyes. "Teaching fulfills me. It always has." With a little sigh, she admitted the truth she'd come to realize since finishing her novel. "But writing took me away from that. It became my focus, when my focus should have been my son and my students. When I finished the novel, it felt good. But it also felt hollow." She shrugged lightly. "I still love to write. I enjoy crafting stories. But my desire to write published work has greatly diminished. I would be content to write stories for the people of Hope Valley, because they would be the ones I write about anyway. This is my home. This is where I find inspiration." She smiled at him, once again feeling slightly shy. "This is where I found love."

Nathan's hand came up to cup her cheek. The adoring look in his eyes made Elizabeth's stomach flutter. He leaned closer and she closed her eyes, anticipating the feel of his lips on hers.

"Mom? Dad?"

Elizabeth's eyes flew open as the children's footsteps sounded on the stairs. She felt Nathan's breath skim her lips as he let out a small sigh, but he smiled before giving her a soft, quick kiss as Jack and Allie came into view. "We'll finish this later," he breathed, a promise in his eyes that took her breath away. He stood to meet the children, both of whom were begging him to come see their block city. Nathan laughed and agreed, allowing them to tug him up the stairs to their room.

Elizabeth was left to watch, struggling to catch her breath. The look in Nathan's eyes could have meant any number of things, as could his words to her. She felt a strange combination of anticipation, longing, and fear. Strong fear.

There was a declaration of love between them now. Nothing was stopping them from living a full marriage. Did Nathan think…?

Elizabeth inhaled sharply, trying to push the fear aside, but it only gripped her harder. Anxiety welled up inside, making it difficult to think. Anger sparked along with the fear and anxiety. She knew the only reason she was afraid of intimacy was because of what had happened to her. Spurlock hadn't only taken her against her will, he had also taken her ability to trust another man with her body. Even the thought of allowing Nathan that close made her shake. She closed her eyes, gripping her head in her hands as flashbacks threatened to take hold.

"No," she moaned quietly, tears slipping from her eyes. This was supposed to be a happy day. She had discovered her love for Nathan, had experienced the wonder of his kisses. She had her children back and she had her health back. She should be nothing but content.

Instead, she was reduced to anxiety and tears by the thought that her husband might want more from her than she was able to give.

The stomping of feet told her Nathan and the children would be back downstairs any moment. She couldn't let them see her like this. She quickly stood and went to the front porch, gulping deep breaths and wiping at her face with her sleeve. The cold winter air shocked her, but she had to take a moment to compose herself. Nathan would take one look at her and know something was wrong. She wasn't sure she could face his questions yet.

His voice drifted to her from the door that was slightly ajar. "Elizabeth?"

She forced her tone to sound light and relaxed. "I'll be right in," she called. "Just needed a breath of fresh air after being inside for so long."

Nathan apparently accepted that answer. She could hear kitchen utensils clanging, indicating that he had started preparing dinner. Based on the excited chatter from the children, they were helping. Elizabeth drew in deep breaths of cold air, trying to calm down. When she finally felt presentable, she went back inside, pasting on a sunny smile. Nathan smiled at her, but his smile faltered as he took in her expression. The children didn't notice anything amiss, so he didn't say anything, though he continued to look at her in concern throughout the evening. Elizabeth did her best to be positive and upbeat, forcing her fears aside. But after they had tucked the children in bed and retired to their own room, Elizabeth had a feeling they were about to face the fire.

Nathan shut the door firmly behind them, then went to her and gently gripped her upper arms. "Elizabeth, what's wrong?" he asked, his voice gentle and his eyes wide with worry. "You haven't been yourself all evening. What happened?"

How was she to explain this without hurting him? She shivered as her anxiety increased. Being in this room with him somehow amplified it as the weight of expectation nearly crushed her. "I...I...I…" she stuttered, unable to find the words.

Nathan's arms slid around her body, drawing her into his protective embrace. "Whatever it is, sweetheart, you can tell me," he said softly, nuzzling her cheek with his nose. "You're safe with me."

Safe. The word spread through Elizabeth slowly but surely, dispelling the anxiety bit by bit. Yes, she was safe with Nathan. She had always been safe with Nathan. She could trust him with heart and her body. He would never push her for more than she was ready to give. Shame suddenly filled her as she realized she had let her fears win over what she knew to be true of her husband. With a cry, she buried her face in Nathan's chest. "I'm sorry," she sobbed, clinging to him.

She could feel confusion radiating from him, but he held her close, rubbing her back gently. "You have nothing to apologize for," he said, his voice as gentle as his hands.

Elizabeth couldn't stop herself from babbling on. "I got scared, Nathan," she admitted. "I assumed you wanted more from me after our kisses. Then I couldn't help thinking of what happened to me all those months ago and I started flashing back to that night and my heart has been terrified ever since, even though I know you would never hurt me and only want to care for me…" Elizabeth bit her lip suddenly, knowing she wasn't making sense.

Nathan pulled back slightly to look down at her, his eyes searching hers. "You thought I expected marital intimacy because you told me you loved me?" There was no judgement in his eyes, just an honest curiosity to know the truth.

Elizabeth nodded silently. "I'm sorry," she whispered again, lowering her eyes to the buttons on his shirt.

He lifted her chin carefully with one hand. "Sweetheart, I know you're still healing. I have no expectations from you. I meant it when I said we could live a chaste marriage. My only concern is to see that you are safe and comfortable. And hopefully happy." His hands lifted to frame her face. "I love you and I will do whatever it takes to show you that love." He winked, intentionally lightening the mood. "Besides, I only just realized what it is to kiss you. I'd like to spend time exploring that aspect of our relationship."

Elizabeth felt a smile tug at her lips, appreciating both his honesty and levity. "Thank you," she said, feeling love for him surge through her all over again. "I do love you, Nathan. And…" She chewed on her lower lip, wondering if she could say what she wanted to say. A blush filled her cheeks, but she continued on. "I hope someday soon I can give myself to you entirely." Face flaming, she swallowed. "It just might take some time."

Nathan's smile was gentle and genuine. "I'll wait as long as it takes," he promised. He leaned forward, pressing his lips against hers in a kiss that sealed his promise. Elizabeth closed her eyes, letting his love wash over her. She could feel his restraint in the kiss. He was holding back, making sure they didn't go too far. A part of her longed to take their kiss deeper, but considering the fact that she wasn't ready for what came after, she let it remain tender instead of passionate. Despite the physical restraint, he held nothing back emotionally. His kiss gave to her rather than taking for himself.

He pulled back before Elizabeth was ready. She locked her hands behind his head and followed him, keeping their lips pressed together. Nathan let out a tiny groan. He broke their kiss, his breathing ragged. He smiled wryly, leaning his forehead against hers. "I do have limits to my self-control," he said, chuckling lightly. "Maybe we should be careful about kisses in our bedroom."

Elizabeth blushed. He was right. But she made no move to take herself from his arms. She snuggled against his chest, letting his strength wrap around her. "Alright," she agreed, her voice breathy. They hadn't even shared passionate kisses, yet her heart was racing and her body humming.

Nathan reached down, taking her hand in his. "Why don't we go downstairs and enjoy a cup of tea?" he suggested. He pressed her hand to his lips, then grinned. "And maybe a second slice of that delicious chocolate cake."

Elizabeth smiled back, tucking herself against his side as they descended the stairs. Once again, her husband had protected her heart while showering her with his love. He said he wanted her to be safe, comfortable, and happy.

When she was with him, she felt all three.

Almost a week later, life in the Grant household returned to normal. The flu epidemic had dissipated, and to Carson and Faith's relief, there had been no loss of life. Elizabeth was back in the classroom, happy to be with her students again. They were equally happy to have her back. Allie and Opal continued to walk to school together, while Nathan escorted Elizabeth before going to work. This particular morning, both girls were sitting on the steps of Opal's porch, taking advantage of the time before school to play cat's cradle as the two adults headed for the schoolhouse.

He reflected on the past week, his heart full. Knowing Elizabeth now returned his love made him happier than he could ever remember being. He had been careful to keep his promise to her as far as their physical affection went. Besides a sweet kiss in the morning and an equally sweet kiss before bed, they hadn't engaged in that particular activity. Nathan was determined to treat their new relationship as if they were courting rather than married. If they were courting, he wouldn't kiss her at every chance he got. He would take things slow and wait for the time to be right. Though they were married, he knew his wife was still healing from her emotional wounds. He wasn't about to rush her in any way. Slow and steady would be their best option.

Elizabeth turned to him after he had built a fire in the stove, her eyes wide. "I forgot to tell Laura that I would be late coming home today," she said, a hand flying to her heart. "I have so much to catch up on here…"

Nathan stopped her with a gentle hand to her lips. "I'll go back and let her know," he said. "The walk will be good for me." He patted his middle. "With your delicious desserts, I need to do all the walking I can."

Elizabeth eyed his trim middle. "Mmhmm," she said, raising a brow at him and grinning. "If you say so, dear."

Nathan laughed at her tone, then pressed a kiss to her cheek. "Have a good day, sweetheart. I love you."

"I love you too," she said, her eyes softening as she said the words. Nathan's heart warmed. Though they hadn't been expressing their love physically, emotionally they did so every chance they got. Nathan knew physical affection was important, but he also knew it wasn't what built a strong marriage. A strong emotional core was important to withstand the trials of life. They hadn't missed an opportunity to say the words "I love you" since the day a week ago when Elizabeth first deliberately uttered them to him.

They said their goodbyes, and Nathan headed back to the house to talk to Laura. The young woman was happy to stay a little longer that day, so Nathan gave her a smile and then walked out the door to head to town.

He had only gotten down his porch steps when he heard someone call his name. "Good morning, Nathan."

Looking up, he saw Joseph Canfield standing on his own porch, watching as Minnie began walking their children to school. His attention soon turned back to Nathan, a wide smile on his face. "You know, we've been neighbors for quite some time now, and we still haven't had your family over for dinner. Minnie wanted me to ask you to supper this Sunday. She's going to mention it to Elizabeth, but I thought I'd extend the invitation as well."

Nathan smiled. He liked Joseph and wanted to get to know him better. He had a feeling they could be friends. "I would like that, and I think Elizabeth will too. Thank you."

"Of course." Joseph regarded him for a few moments, something in his eyes that Nathan couldn't decipher. Abruptly, he straightened. "Do you have a few moments, Nathan?"

Blinking, Nathan wondered what his neighbor might want. "Sure."

"Good." Joseph waved him into the house. "Follow me."

The two men made themselves comfortable in some chairs. Nathan looked around the rowhouse. It was tastefully decorated and in good order. His eyes landed on a small workbench in the corner. He lifted his brows, looking at Hope Valley's pastor. "You are a carpenter?"

Joseph nodded with a smile. "I've made all the furniture in this house," he said proudly. "It's a hobby I've always loved."

"You're very good at it," Nathan said. He squinted at something by the workbench, then gaped. A beautiful cradle sat there, sturdy but lovely. He stood and went to it, touching the smooth wood. "This is incredible," he said, studying the craftsmanship. His mind immediately went to the fact that he and Elizabeth would need one soon.

Joseph spoke casually. "I've heard you're handy with tools yourself." He watched Nathan carefully, eyes full of knowing. "Would you like me to show you how to make one? You're going to need a cradle of your own in a few months."

Nathan almost choked. He stared at Joseph, wide-eyed. The pastor stared back at him, a relaxed look on his face. "Have a seat, Nathan," he said, folding his hands over his lap. Nathan obeyed automatically, his mind spinning. How did Joseph know? Before he could say anything, Joseph began talking.

"People don't generally think of me as observant, but my time as a pastor has taught me to look out for my flock carefully," he said. "One night, a little over four months ago, I couldn't sleep. When that happens, I like to look out the window of my bedroom and pray. That night, very late, I saw you leave your house and head down the road. Seconds later, I saw Mr. Spurlock walking toward town, looking entirely too self-satisfied. That was unusual in and of itself, but then about twenty minutes later, Judge Avery came flying down the road with Dr. Carter beside him. No one came back until morning." He leaned forward, eyes still on Nathan. "You arrested Spurlock the next day and accompanied him to prison, which you didn't have to do. Elizabeth was out of school for an entire week. When she came back, she tried to hide the fact that there were bruises on her face, but Minnie noticed them easily. My wife worked with battered women for years. She knows the signs of abuse. When she asked Elizabeth about them, Elizabeth claimed everything was fine, but my Minnie knew that wasn't true. Still, she didn't pry, trying to respect Elizabeth's privacy. Women who have experienced trauma don't usually want the world knowing about it." He tilted his head. "You then took up walking her to school." A smile crossed his face as he raised his brow. "The entire town knew you were in love with Elizabeth, but they also knew she was courting Mr. Bouchard."

Nathan's cheeks heated. Had he been so bad at hiding his feelings?

Joseph smirked slightly, seeming to read Nathan's thoughts. "You are an open book, my friend. You can't help wearing your heart on your sleeve."

Nathan blushed darker, and Joseph continued, allowing him to collect himself. "Then two months later, you and Elizabeth got married. The same day Mr. Bouchard left town. The same day Mr. Landis arrived in town." Joseph folded his arms, sitting back. "Minnie was terrified when Mr. Landis showed up again. She thought he was going to attempt to force Angela from school since Elizabeth didn't have her credential for teaching a blind student. Instead, Mr. Landis left town the next day, without making any kind of trouble." He fixed Nathan with a shrewd look. "Now, here's what I think happened. Elizabeth was assaulted by Mr. Spurlock. She became pregnant. Somehow Mr. Landis found out about the pregnancy and threatened her job. You married her to protect her and her reputation." He arched a brow, a small smile on his lips as if he already knew the answer to the question he asked. "Am I close?"

Nathan's mouth was hanging open. Joseph Canfield was more observant than any lawman he'd ever met. Clearing his throat, he managed to ask a question of his own. "Were you ever trained as a Mountie?"

Joseph laughed, a clear sound that rang throughout the house. "No, son. My calling was to pastor people. That involves seeing what goes on around you."

"Perhaps," Nathan said. "But the fact that you guessed our situation simply by observation…" He shook his head, stunned.

Joseph leaned forward again. "Nathan, I want you to know that Minnie and I will do everything we can to help you. We are neighbors. You have only to say the word, and you will have any support you need from us."

Tears stung Nathan's eyes at the compassion Joseph showed. "Thank you," he whispered. He swallowed. "Does Minnie know too?"

Joseph nodded. "She was the one who alerted me to Elizabeth's possible pregnancy. Minnie said her body looks a little fuller, though it wouldn't be obvious to the general person that she's having a baby. Not yet." His face sobered. "You and Elizabeth are going to face some serious judgement in the months ahead, my friend. Are you prepared for that?"

Letting out a small sigh, Nathan nodded. "We are. We knew that would be the case before we married. Elizabeth is carrying small so far. But it's inevitable that some will think I fathered her child and married her to cover it up."

Joseph nodded again. "That is likely. Or they will think Mr. Bouchard is the father and that he refused to marry her, so you stepped in. Either way, all three of you are likely to suffer for it." He shook his head. "It hurts my heart that people are so quick to judge and jump to conclusions. Elizabeth suffered a harsh trauma, one that I'm guessing she's still healing from?" Nathan nodded, and Joseph continued. "I might have to prepare some sermons on 'judge not, lest ye be judged'," he muttered to himself.

That brought a smile to Nathan's lips. "Thank you, Joseph," he said, meaning every word. "You have been a blessing to our town."

Joseph smiled. "God brought me here," he said, his words humble. "I'm simply His instrument." The men stood, shaking hands. "We'll look forward to dinner on Sunday," Joseph said. He grinned. "And if you ever need a babysitter for a date night, let us know. Minnie and I would be happy to watch Jack and Allie."

Nathan paused, an idea striking him. He returned Joseph's grin, clapping the man on the shoulder. "Again, I thank you," he said. "I might take you up on that." The thought danced across his mind, taking flight. "A date night," he said slowly. Though they were married and in love, he and Elizabeth had yet to be on a single date.

He had to remedy that.

Bidding Joseph farewell, Nathan started his rounds, making sure the town was safe. His last stop was the school. He rode up as morning recess began. Swinging down from Newton, Nathan found Allie and gave her a big hug before heading into the schoolhouse to find his wife.

Elizabeth was writing something on the chalkboard when he came in, and she turned when she heard his boots against the floor. She brightened considerably when she saw him, immediately dropping the chalk and heading toward him with a smile. "Nathan!" she exclaimed, stopping in front of him. Her eyes were happy and peaceful. "This is a surprise. What are you doing here?"

He smiled back, tucking a piece of her hair behind her ear. "I came to ask you on a date," he said. He leaned forward with a grin. "We never did have that dinner at the café."

Elizabeth blinked in surprise, then laughed happily. "We didn't, did we?" Her eyes practically glowed. "Are you asking me to dinner?"

"I certainly am," Nathan replied. "Mrs. Grant, will you do me the honor of accompanying me to supper tomorrow evening at Abigail's Café?"

She laughed again, her happiness reaching straight into Nathan's soul. He would never grow tired of that beautiful sound. With a nod, she gave her acceptance. "I would be delighted, Constable Grant," she returned. "What time shall I be ready?"

"Six o'clock," Nathan said formally. He gave her a bow, imitating an English nobleman he had once seen in Union City.

Elizabeth giggled. "That would be perfect."

Nathan took her hand and gave her a grin before pressing a kiss to her fingers. "I look forward to it," he said, feeling his own eyes twinkle.

Everything about their relationship was backwards. A baby, then marriage, then love, then dates. The circumstances were unusual, but Nathan couldn't begrudge them

They were what had brought him and Elizabeth together.