In the middle of August, Nathan woke to find himself alone in bed. Elizabeth was nowhere in sight. Aurora's bassinet was empty. It wasn't often that he woke up without Elizabeth by his side. He slid out of bed, changing into his uniform before heading to the kitchen.

He found her with all three children seated at the kitchen table. Allie and Jack looked very excited. Nathan gave them each a kiss before moving to kiss his wife and the baby. Jack was fairly bursting at the seams about something.

"Daddy!" he shouted. "We get to stay with Uncle Lee and Auntie Rosie this weekend!"

Nathan blinked. "We do?"

Allie laughed. "Not you and Mom," she said. "Just us kids." Her eyes twinkled. "Auntie Rosemary said you need some 'adult alone time', so she and Uncle Lee are going to watch us this weekend."

Nathan's mouth gaped. "Even Aurora?"

Allie nodded. Jack grunted, looking at his little sister with a fond sort of tolerance. "Will she cry a lot there?" he asked, looking at Elizabeth.

She laughed. "I don't know, Jack," she said. "She might. Danny might cry too."

Jack groaned. "Awww! I hope not!" He pouted. "Why are there so many babies?"

Nathan bit back a laugh of his own. His son looked adorably disgruntled. He scooped him into his arms, kissing his cheek again. "Jack, my boy, you were once a baby too. You cried a lot yourself."

Jack's eyes widened. "I did? I don't remember!"

It was Allie's turn to laugh. "You sure did. You had quite a pair of lungs on you, little brother," she said, rubbing his head affectionately. "Much louder than Aurora." She turned to Elizabeth. "Mom, can I hold the baby?"

Elizabeth handed Aurora to Allie. "Of course, sweetheart," she said. "Actually, do you mind if I change into my dress while you hold her?"

Allie nodded, cooing at her baby sister. Nathan watched them for a moment, his heart swelling to see Allie taking her role as big sister to heart. She clearly loved little Aurora, always wanting to hold her and care for her. Since Elizabeth had started pumping her milk, Allie even took a turn feeding Aurora in the evenings. The baby had formed a bond with her big sister. She loved being held by Allie and responded most to Allie's smiles and coos.

Nathan smiled, then turned to follow Elizabeth into their room. He shut the door behind them, looking at his wife with raised brows. "What's this about a weekend with the Coulters?"

Elizabeth returned his smile. "A couple weeks ago, Rosemary offered to watch the kids this weekend so we could have some time together on our own," she said, slipping her arms around him. "Won't it be nice to have time just for you and me? No interruptions." She sighed, a dreamy look on her face. "A whole weekend to ourselves." She framed his face with her hands. "I wanted to surprise you."

"I am surprised. And excited," Nathan replied, beaming. "Alone time with my wife sounds absolutely delightful." He leaned into her touch. "And speaking of alone time, I've been thinking lately that I'd like to take you on a honeymoon. Maybe on our one-year wedding anniversary?"

Elizabeth's eyes sparkled. "Oh, Nathan," she breathed. "That would be wonderful."

"Good. We can start planning that soon," he said. He pressed a kiss to her forehead, then stepped back. Sitting on the edge of their bed, he tugged on his boots. "I have to get going," he said, regret in his tone. "I woke up later than I intended and have to get started on my rounds."

"What about breakfast?" Elizabeth asked.

Nathan smiled, warmed at the concern in her voice. "I'll get something at the café," he promised.

Elizabeth nodded. "Good." She bit her lip, looking like she had something to say, but she remained quiet. After a few moments, when she didn't say anything, Nathan leaned toward her, giving her a gentle goodbye kiss. "I'll go say bye to the children," he said. "See you after work."

Elizabeth gripped Nathan's arm before he could pass by. He looked at her. She was trembling. "What is it, sweetheart?" he asked, placing a hand over hers. Concern tugged at Nathan's heart. "Is something wrong?"

She shook her head. Her gaze was unwavering. "Tonight," she whispered. Her free hand traveled to his head, pulling it down to hers. She kissed him deeply, leaving him no doubt of what she wanted. When they pulled apart, both were breathless. Elizabeth's eyes were shining as she looked at him. "When the kids are with the Coulters, I'm yours," she breathed. "Completely."

Nathan's heart sped up and his own body began to tremble, responding to her words and her promise. He swallowed hard. "Are you sure?"

She nodded. "I'm ready, Nathan." She pressed herself into his arms, pulling him close. "I want you. All of you." As she reached up for another kiss, her lips moving passionately over his, Nathan felt a strong urge to lock their bedroom door and make love to his wife right then and there. But he'd waited this long. He could wait another few hours.

When Elizabeth finally pulled back, she looked up at him with eyes full of promise. "Hurry home," she whispered, a grin tugging at her lips.

Nathan laughed. He'd be thinking of nothing else all day.

Elizabeth felt both nervous and excited as the day went on. The promise between her and Nathan to finally give in to their love was never far from her mind. About an hour before Nathan was scheduled to come home, Lee and Rosemary came to pick up the kids. After hearing them promise to be good, Elizabeth kissed her children and waved as they drove away. With time to spare, she found her nerves heightening. To distract herself, she began cleaning the kitchen vigorously.

So absorbed was she in her work, she didn't hear Nathan come in. She squealed in surprise when his strong arms encircled her from behind, his lips nuzzling her neck. "Hello, my love," he murmured against her skin.

Elizabeth turned so they faced each other, reaching up to kiss him in welcome. "Did you have a good day?"

He nodded, settling his arms around her waist. "It was uneventful. Very boring." He winked. "Just the kind of day you like me to have."

She laughed. "I'm happy to hear it."

Nathan looked around the kitchen. "You've been busy," he said. "It looks spectacular in here."

Elizabeth flushed at the praise. "Thank you." She laughed lightly. "I know we'll dirty it again making dinner, but I figured it wouldn't hurt to give it a deep cleaning."

Nathan shook his head. "We don't have to dirty it tonight. Why don't we get dinner at the café? We can have a date night. It's been a while." He glanced at the clock. "It's only four thirty. Do you want to have an early dinner, or wait a bit?"

Though she was still nervous, Elizabeth felt a flirty impulse fill her. "Are you hungry?" she asked, pressing her body against his. Her suggestive question held a strong double meaning.

Nathan caught on immediately. His slow, crooked smile appeared. "Famished," he replied, his eyes dropping to her lips. Elizabeth lifted them to him. He kissed her slowly and deeply. The kiss was long but unhurried, a delightful exploration of each other with the promise of more to come. When they finally came up for air, Elizabeth gasped slightly. Her desire was kindled, but it seemed her nerves had grown along with them.

Nathan framed her face in his hands, looking deeply into her eyes. "Are you alright, sweetheart?"

She nodded. "I think so. Just a little nervous. This is a big step in our relationship." She paused. "I don't want to disappoint you in any way."

Nathan enveloped her in an embrace. "That's impossible," he said softly. He pulled back, and Elizabeth was shocked to see her nervousness mirrored in his eyes. "I'm afraid of disappointing you too," he admitted. "I'm afraid of hurting you or causing bad memories to surface."

Her heart melted at his admission. "You won't hurt me," she said fervently. "You're always so gentle and thoughtful. I have no worries in that regard." She reached down to take his hand. "Let's take this to our room."

They walked down the hall hand in hand. Nathan shut the door once they entered, then turned to take Elizabeth into his arms. She went willingly, meeting his kiss eagerly. Butterflies danced in her stomach, but she couldn't tell if they were excited or anxious. Maybe a combination of both.

Nathan pulled back after a few moments. He looked at her with a hint of hesitation in his eyes. "You might have to guide me at times, Elizabeth," he said softly. "I have no experience in lovemaking."

That broke through her defenses. She tightened her arms around him, loving that he wasn't afraid to show his vulnerability. "I will. We'll find our way together," she whispered, pressing her lips to his. Their kiss started slow and sweet, but it quickly became heated. They shared a multitude of kisses, ranging from sweet to intense. As her desire built, Elizabeth's hands found the front of Nathan's serge. She deftly unbuttoned it without breaking their kiss. Pushing it off his body, her hands slid to his suspenders, gripping them tightly in her hands and using them to pull him closer. Nathan returned the gesture, divesting her of her dress in a surprisingly short amount of time.

Elizabeth felt him reach for her shift. As he started to lift it, a sudden shyness washed over her. He was about to see her body, a body that was nothing like it had once been. Waves of insecurity crashed into her. What if he didn't like what he saw? "Wait," she mumbled, burying her face in his chest. Her cheeks began to burn and her body shook.

Nathan stilled. "What is it, love?" he whispered. "Did I trigger a memory?"

She shook her head, suddenly unwilling to look him in the eyes. She kept her face pressed against his shirt. She knew he'd seen her during her bout with influenza, but she had been unconscious. Now, knowing he was about to see her completely unveiled, she became shy. "No," she said. "It's not that. I just…I just got a sudden case of nerves." Her cheeks flamed. "I've carried two babies, Nathan. My body has been stretched and changed in so many ways." She finally worked up the nerve to look at him. "Sometimes it's hard for me to look at myself in the mirror. The thought of you seeing me is a little scary."

He smiled gently, leaning down to brush her lips with his. "Elizabeth, I love you exactly as you are," he whispered. "Nothing is going to change that. I promise. To me, you're the most beautiful woman in the world." A hint of worry entered his eyes. "Are you sure there's nothing else holding you back?"

She considered it. "I won't lie to you, Nathan. A part of me is scared that a memory will surface while we're together. I hope it doesn't, but the worry lives in the back of my mind."

He tilted his head, clearly thinking. "What if we tried something to calm us both?" he suggested.

Elizabeth raised a brow. "I'm all ears," she said.

He chuckled, running a hand down her back. "A bath," he said. "I know how much you love those. Maybe if we're both in the tub, it'll help calm your anxiety. I can get in first, and when you're ready you can join me." His hand traveled up to her neck. "I'll even close my eyes when you get in so there's no awkwardness. Then we'll see where things go from there."

Elizabeth paused before a smile lit her face. "That's a good idea," she admitted. "And it just might work."

Nathan chuckled. "I hope it does." He kissed her again, then glanced down at her chest. A smile tugged at his lips. "Take whatever time you need to get comfortable, okay? I'll run the bath."

She looked down, seeing twin wet spots on her shift. Her cheeks bloomed with color, and she automatically reached up to cover herself. Nathan took her hands in his, pressing them to his chest. "For the record, I find that beautiful too," he whispered. "It means you're providing sustenance and life for our little girl. It's a uniquely feminine mystery that is utterly amazing."

Elizabeth caught her breath at his words. He gave her one more slow, tantalizing kiss, then squeezed her hands. "I'll be in the bathroom when you're ready," he said quietly. Releasing her hands, he left the room.

She removed her shift and pantaloons before wrapping a robe around herself. She found the breast pump and sat in a chair to empty the milk from her body. When she finished, she stored the milk and took a deep breath. She didn't feel much calmer, but she had a feeling facing her fear was the only way to get past it. It was time to love her husband. With determined yet wobbly steps, she made her way to the bathroom adjoining their room.

Elizabeth held her breath as she removed her robe and hung it on the bathroom door. She peeked her head around the corner, keeping her body hidden from sight. Nathan was already in the tub, resting casually against its walls. He smiled at her gently when he saw her. "Should I close my eyes now?"

Elizabeth nodded, swallowing hard. Nathan closed his eyes, turning his face to the side. "Take the time you need," he said softly.

Elizabeth gulped in breaths, nerves tingling all over. Though her husband couldn't see her, she felt exposed and vulnerable. Slowly, she tiptoed across the tiled floor until she reached the oversized tub. Hesitantly, one foot at a time, she climbed in. She sat opposite Nathan so they were facing each other, then quickly sat down to submerge herself in the water until only her head was visible. "You can open your eyes," she said, hating the way her voice squeaked.

He did, giving her another tender smile. Elizabeth let out a breath, closing her own eyes and focusing on the heated water warming her skin. Slowly, she began to relax. The tension seeped from her muscles. She sat up a little straighter, letting her shoulders peek out of the water.

Her foot met Nathan's. She froze for a brief moment, then relaxed again. Nathan slowly pressed his foot against the side of her leg, near her ankle. Watching her for any signs to stop, he carefully ran his foot up the length of her leg, stopping at her hip, then slowly sliding it back down again until he reached her ankle. He repeated the process several times. Elizabeth closed her eyes, feeling a combination of delight and nerves. His touch felt good. Like the flipping of a switch, all at once she wanted more.

Keeping her eyes on his, Elizabeth slid across the tub until she was in front of Nathan. He watched her, silently allowing her to lead at her pace. She turned and scooted back so that her back rested against his chest. As their bodies touched, Elizabeth began to tremble. Though the water hid them from each other's view, there was no mistaking the very male body pressing against hers. He was as still as a statue against her, giving her the time she needed to be comfortable.

After a minute, she relaxed against him. She felt his hands resting on either side of his thighs. Boldness crept over her. Reaching down, she clasped his hands in hers, then guided them to her stomach. She heard Nathan catch his breath as his hands rested against her skin. Glancing up, she saw that his eyes were heavy with desire. She laid her hands on his thighs, then smiled at him. "Go ahead," she whispered, resting her head against his shoulder in complete trust.

His hands began to move. Slowly, reverently, he explored her body. His touch melted away her lingering fears. With every touch, he removed her nerves and apprehension. His hands brought healing and desire to her. He lingered over some areas, exploring more deeply, and Elizabeth felt herself respond to his touch. When he finished, she turned so they faced each other once more. Sliding closer to him, she wrapped her legs around his waist. It was her turn to explore his body, and she did so as carefully and tenderly as he'd done to her. Nathan's eyes glazed as he looked at her. She could feel his growing desire like a physical force. He gripped her hips, pulling her flush against him, claiming her lips hungrily. As it had for some time, Elizabeth felt her desire increase as her husband caressed her hips while he kissed her. What had once sent her into a panic now made her feel only pleasure.

Something about their wet skin heightened the heat of the moment. Elizabeth deepened the kiss, running her hands through Nathan's hair. Their kisses grew in length and urgency. A moan sounded deep in Nathan's throat. His hands began running over her in long, smooth movements, making her shiver with delight. Abruptly, he broke their kiss, breathing hard.

"I am not making love to you for the first time in a bathtub," he panted, trying to regain a semblance of control.

Elizabeth disentangled herself from him and stood, no longer shy. "Then let's move this elsewhere," she whispered, yearning for him so deeply it was a physical ache.

Nathan's eyes roamed her and he groaned again before standing himself. "You're so beautiful," he said, embracing her tightly. Elizabeth held him in return. Their lips found each other again. Elizabeth got lost in Nathan's kiss. It was deep and powerful, stoking the flames lit inside of her with an ever greater intensity. His lips left hers and traveled to her neck. Elizabeth closed her eyes, tilting her head back to allow him free access. The fire grew stronger. The ache continued to grow deep in her belly, an ache she knew would only be satisfied one way. She drew back and took his hand, climbing out of the tub and leading him to their bed.

He scooped her into his arms, laying her down on the soft covers as he found her lips once more. His weight pressed down on her like a solid fortress. Elizabeth felt completely safe in his embrace. His lips began to explore her body, building anticipation inside of her until she thought she could no longer bear it. As they moved closer to the consummation of their love, she felt no anxiety. All she felt was an exquisite delight in her husband, a love that was more powerful than fear, and a desire to finally unite herself to him fully. When they joined together as one, she felt like she'd finally come home.

Once their lovemaking was complete, Elizabeth lay in Nathan's arms, softly gasping as she tried to catch her breath. After months of growing desire, their first time had been long and passionate, though characterized by the gentleness that Nathan always showed her. She snuggled closer to him, her fingers lightly playing with the coarse hairs on his chest. His arms tightened around her as he pressed a kiss to her forehead.

"I hope…I hope that was okay," he whispered, sounding uncertain.

She tilted her head to look up at him. Okay? Okay didn't even begin to describe what they had just experienced together. There had been a few awkward moments as Nathan tried to figure out what to do, but with her guidance he had found his way. As far as she was concerned, it had been heavenly. "Are you satisfied, Nathan?"

He smiled. "Oh yes, my love," he said, rubbing a hand up and down her back. "I knew it would be worth the wait, and it was. Loving you like that – I don't have the words to describe it." He paused. "I just hope it was as wonderful for you as it was for me."

She propped herself up on an elbow, leaning down to give him a slow, sensual kiss. "It was," she whispered, pulling back a fraction of an inch. "It was perfect, Nathan. Thank you for waiting so long. It means the world to me that you never pushed me for more than I was willing to give." She kissed him again. "Thank you for loving me through the worst days of my life." Another kiss. "Thank you for being my rock when I thought I couldn't go on. Thank you for loving my children as your own. Thank you for promising to love and cherish me all the days of our lives." She cupped his cheek. "I don't know where I'd be now without you." She pressed her lips to his once more, rekindling the flames of desire in them both. "I love you, Nathan Grant."

With tears sparkling in his eyes, Nathan pulled her to him. "I love you too." He kissed her yet again, his hands freely roaming her skin. Elizabeth's body responded quickly to his touch and his kiss. As they began another session of sweet lovemaking, one thought pounded through Elizabeth's mind.

Perfect love casts out fear.

A/N: Thank you for sticking with this story, friends! I know it wasn't always happy, but it's been very therapeutic to write. This chapter is both an end and a beginning. It's the end of Part 1, and will continue with Part 2, which will be a series of one-shots that show what life is like for the Grants over the years. So if you have anything you'd like to see in the future, feel free to leave a suggestion in the comments! I have to admit I was a little nervous about posting this chapter, but I hope I did it justice. Thank you again, dear readers, for being my reason for writing! You're the best. Love and hugs to you all.