Chapter 20 – Date Night and Travel

Jack was standing in the foyer holding a corsage of a red rose with baby's breath for Elizabeth talking to Wynn when Elizabeth walked into the foyer. Wynn was the first to see Elizabeth since Jack's back was turned, so he nodded and Jack turned around. Jack was speechless. He stood there staring at Elizabeth in a stunning cream dress with red accents stitched along the neckline and sleeves. It had a square neckline that showed off the beautiful necklace that Elizabeth was wearing. Jack's favorite was the red sash that was wrapped around Elizabeth's small waist and then ran down the back. The dress perfectly showed off Elizabeth's curves and the bodice hugged her body and dropped straight down once past her hips which the dress also hugged just ever so slightly. He stood there and was unable to speak, he just wanted to take in the beautiful sight that was his wife. Finally Jack approached her and was able to convey that he wanted to pin the corsage, when he did he brushed back a lock of her hair and pinned the red rose on her dress. That was when he noticed that she had earrings that matched her necklace.

Elizabeth saw Jack standing there in a very handsome fitted black suit with a crisp white shirt, black vest and a red tie to match her dress. When Jack went to pin on the corsage, she noticed that Jack was wearing a pair of ruby cufflinks that she knew to be Wynn's. She knew Jack was a good looking man, but standing there she felt very lucky that he was hers and hers alone. She knew wherever they were going, he would turn heads. She also knew that he only had eyes for her. Elizabeth smiled at Jack and saw that he was having a hard time focusing. Standing there with Elizabeth, Jack felt like a teenager, not a young husband. He was completely taken with Elizabeth's beauty. He again thought what did he do to deserve such an angel. Jack had to will his body to calm down or he knew that he would never make it through their meal. If he was honest, he wanted to take his wife back to their room right then.

"I love your necklace and earrings." Jack whispered.

"A birthday gift from my mother." Elizabeth said.

As Jack leaned in for a kiss, he whispered. "You're stunning. Ready?"

Elizabeth nodded and Jack helped her with her coat. He then slid his coat on and they headed out to supper. Wynn had given Jack extra cash so that he had enough to take his wife out. Aunt Elizabeth had made a reservation at an upscale restaurant that was popular with the high society crowd. Aunt Elizabeth had chosen that one, for a couple of reasons but most of all, she felt that it was only right that Jack be able to show off his beautiful wife. Along with the cash, Wynn had given Jack the address of the restaurant and told him to enjoy it. Jack made his way to the restaurant and then helped Elizabeth out of the car. When they entered and checked their coats before being led to their table. Jack looked around and realized that it was quite a fancy place, but Elizabeth didn't look the least bit uncomfortable. He relaxed when he saw that she was relaxed. They ordered their food and while they waited, they joined their hands on top of the table. The conversation was light and they talked about their trip back to Hope Valley and how nice it would be to return home.

When their food arrived, Jack and Elizabeth briefly let go of each other's hands. Whenever possible, their hands joined. Neither Jack nor Elizabeth noticed that there was a photographer that was hanging near the edge of the restaurant. Jack also didn't notice that he had been watching both of them most of the night. The photographer knew that it was Elizabeth Thatcher and he was looking for a good picture for the society page. There may have been a number of socialites in the restaurant, but Elizabeth drew special attention because she hadn't been seen in Hamilton society in months. The photographer wondered who it was that had won the hand of the middle Thatcher daughter. He knew that if he got a good photo, that his boss would be happy. At one point, Jack lifted Elizabeth's hand and kissed the back of her hand, the photographer was able to capture it and hoped that it would be a centerpiece of the society page for the next addition, he even took a moment to call his boss and have him hold the society section until he returned. The photographer had also been able to capture a few others of the couple. His most prized photo came later that evening as Jack and Elizabeth were dancing close to the band that was playing. Jack and Elizabeth were holding each other close and from the angle the photographer was able to capture Elizabeth's wedding and engagement rings perfectly.

Since Jack and Elizabeth had a long day of travel ahead of them, they didn't stay long and as a result, the photographer wasn't able to get the name of Elizabeth Thatcher's escort. Before he left, the photographer was able to talk to some of the staff and learn that the reservation had been made under Corporal Thornton and his wife. The photographer knew that he had a huge story to break and quickly headed to the newspaper office. He also hoped that his editor would be pleased with him for finding such a great story. He was also glad that he had called ahead and had them hold the section. Being able to be the first to break that one of the Thatcher princesses had gotten married without so much as a word to the press. Well that was big news, at least in Hamilton society.

Jack and Elizabeth slowly drove back to Aunt Elizabeth and Wynn's after having enjoyed a lovely evening out to celebrate their one month anniversary. When they got back to the house, they found that there was an extra bag in their room along with a pile of folded laundry. They both quickly changed into more comfortable clothing and then went about packing their items. Jack walked to the library and retrieved his sketchbook. When he passed the kitchen, he saw Aunt Elizabeth making tea so he stopped to talk to her. He thanked her for all her help and for doing their laundry. He let her know that they had a great time at supper and even shared a couple of dances. Jack also thanked Aunt Elizabeth for helping her in getting Elizabeth to speak to her mother and hopefully help set things on a better path. The plan was to turn in early since they had a long day of travel ahead of them. Aunt Elizabeth let Jack know that they were free to sleep in since their train didn't leave until 1pm. Jack thanked her and took a tray with tea to his room for him and Elizabeth.

Elizabeth took the tea and continued to sit at the vanity. She pulled the hair clips out and carefully removed her necklace and earrings so they could be placed back in their case. She then brushed out her hair, before moving to the desk so that she could write in her journal. While Elizabeth did that, Jack sat up against the headboard and started working on a sketch of Elizabeth from their night out. He wanted to draw her dress while it was still so fresh in his mind. Although, he didn't think that he would soon forget how she looked in that dress. Just thinking about her standing there looking at him, his body started to react. He needed to breathe so he could focus on his drawing. He was so into his sketch, that he didn't realize that Elizabeth was talking to him. He didn't even notice until she came and sat on the bed.

"Jack." Elizabeth said.

"What?" Jack said.

Jack looked up and saw Elizabeth sitting on the bed near him. He smiled at her.

"That must be some sketch." Elizabeth said. "I have been trying to get your attention for a few minutes. I asked what time the train was. I was hoping to stop and pick up a couple of things before we left."

"Aunt Elizabeth said the train is at 1pm." Jack said. "I was hoping to stop and pick up a couple new sketchbooks and pencils before we leave."

"Okay." Elizabeth said. "We can talk to Aunt Elizabeth in the morning."

Elizabeth got up and finished packing their things. She left out the dress that she had planned to wear home, she also left out Jack's uniform. With almost everything packed and ready to go, Elizabeth climbed into bed and curled up close to Jack. He continued to work on the sketch for a little longer and finally reached over, turned the bedside light off and snuggled under the covers with his wife.

Wynn and Dee were already gone the next morning when Jack and Elizabeth dressed and went into the sitting room. They found Aunt Elizabeth reading a book. She offered to make them some breakfast and they agreed that would be nice. It was only 8:30 am, but it seemed so late compared to how early Jack and Elizabeth were used to waking. After a breakfast of oatmeal and some fruit, they talked to Aunt Elizabeth about what they wanted to do that morning before heading to the train station. Aunt Elizabeth told them to take the car and go get what they wanted then stop and pick up Dee before heading to the train station, so he could take the car back to the office.

Jack and Elizabeth both walked through their room and the library one more time to make sure that they didn't forget anything. Jack then loaded their bags into the car and came in to say a proper goodbye to Aunt Elizabeth. She promised that she and Wynn would come to visit again. She also reminded Jack that he and Beth were welcome at their house anytime. Elizabeth hugged her aunt before climbing into the car with Jack and they pulled away. Elizabeth directed Jack where she wanted to go, she had wanted to pick up a new journal and maybe a book. She let Jack know that he would be able to pick up his sketchbooks and drawing pencils there.

Jack easily found the shop. Not only was Elizabeth able to find a new journal, but she also found a new book that she thought would keep her busy on the train. Jack was able to get five new sketchbooks and a package of black as well as a package of new colored drawing pencils. When they got to the car, Jack put his things in his messenger bag and Elizabeth put her new book in her carpet bag and the journal in one of the other bags. They also made one other stop and picked up a few things to have as snacks on the train.

Finally they headed to Mountie Headquarters to pick up Dee so he could take them to the station. When they got there, Wynn came out to say goodbye to his niece and to Jack. Again Jack drew the attention of other Mounties around. Most knew that it was Elizabeth Thatcher that had accompanied Jack. Those that had seen the morning paper, knew that he was married to her and thought him one lucky guy. What they didn't know was the connection between Elizabeth Thatcher Thornton and their Deputy Commissioner. Most figured that he knew her because of her family and therefore wanted to wish her safe travels. Even Wynn noticed the looks from the other Mounties, but he had been so busy with paperwork that he had not seen the morning paper and no one had said anything to him about it.

Just as Jack, Elizabeth and Dee were leaving, a telegram came in and a young Mountie came running up to Dee and handed it to him. Dee took one look at it and then handed it to Jack with sad eyes. Elizabeth looked between her husband and cousin, but Jack just put the telegram in his pocket and turned to leave the station. Once they were in the car and underway to the train station, Elizabeth turned to Jack.

"What happened?" Elizabeth said. "Remember, I know when you are lying to me. If you can't tell me, I understand. But I am worried. I saw that look on your face."

Jack waited a moment and saw Dee nod slightly. Jack then turned to Elizabeth and took her hands in his.

"Constable Price was injured on patrol." Jack said. "They believe it was the Garrisons. It doesn't say how bad he is, but it is a good thing that we are headed home. I need to be there."

"Okay." Elizabeth said.

"Dee." Jack said. "Will you wire Hope Valley and let them know that I am on my way? I forgot to do that before we left the station. I had told both Bill and Abigail that I would let them know when we were heading back."

"No problem." Dee said. "I will send a wire to both as soon as I get back to the station. Please try not to worry, you will be back home soon. I will also let you know if I hear anything else about your siblings."

"Thank you, Dee." Jack said. "I hope that Tom will realize that he needs to take the job and contact you guys."

When they pulled up to the train station, Dee helped Jack unload the luggage and onto a cart. Before Dee left, he promised that if he received any more information, he would leave a message for him at the Union City train station and he should check there before catching the stagecoach back to Hope Valley. Jack promised that he would check and also send word when he got back. Both Dee and Elizabeth could see the worry in Jack's eyes and knew that he was feeling guilty. Constable Price was there, injured and Jack was safe with his wife. Elizabeth wished that there was something that she could do to make her husband feel better. She knew that she would talk to him about it on the train.

Jack and Elizabeth disappeared into the train station and headed to pick up their tickets. Aunt Elizabeth had said that she had called and reserved two tickets for them to Union City. When they approached the ticket window, Jack asked for the tickets for Corporal and Mrs Thornton. The clerk pulled an envelope with the tickets and when Jack asked how much it was, he was informed that it had been taken care of and that they had been upgraded. When Jack asked who had paid, the clerk said he believed that there was a note inside the envelope that explained.

With that Jack turned and took Elizabeth to find a place to sit for a moment. Elizabeth wondered if there was something wrong. Once they were seated, Jack opened the envelope to find two tickets for a first class compartment with meals included. The note was from Elizabeth's Aunt Agatha. It read – Congratulations. Enjoy your trip back in comfort. Jack was stunned. He just looked at the note and the tickets. Elizabeth's concern grew so she grabbed the note from Jack's hand and saw that it was from her Aunt Agatha. She then saw the tickets for the first class compartment. A smile broke out on her face. She reached over and squeezed Jack's hand. Jack shook his head again. Then looked at Elizabeth and smiled. She was glad that her Aunt Agatha had done that for them as it showed that she truly supported them and the life that they chose.

While Jack and Elizabeth were waiting to board their train, it was announced that there would be a short delay before boarding. Jack excused himself from where they were sitting and went to get a paper to read. While he was gone, he noticed many people looking at him and then again when he sat down, he noticed many people staring at both him and Elizabeth. Jack was glad that he was in uniform as he was uncomfortable with all the attention that he seemed to be getting. He was also concerned for Elizabeth as he knew that she would have noticed. He said a quick prayer as he looked at Elizabeth and pulled her a bit closer to him.

"Jack." Elizabeth said. "Why does it feel like people are looking at us?"

"I don't know." Jack said. "But I feel it as well."

Jack moved closer to Elizabeth and he also patted his gun. He closed his eyes for a second and then let his Mountie training take over.

"It is making me uncomfortable." Elizabeth said. "At least you are here to protect me."

"I promise nothing will happen to you." Jack said. "I am in uniform and we are still in town. Try and relax, we have a long trip ahead of us."

Jack opened the newspaper he had purchased hoping to catch up on some news since it took days for 'current' news to reach Hope Valley paper that was published once a week. Jack had read the article on the front page and then when he opened the newspaper, his eyes just about popped out of his head. Prominently displayed were three pictures taken the previous night. One larger one and two smaller ones, the larger one was of Jack and Elizabeth dancing where her rings could clearly be seen. In the other two, one they are just sitting eating, holding hands and the other was when Jack had kissed her hand during supper. The headline read – Hamilton Shipping heiress marries Mountie.

Jack knew that William Thatcher was not going to be happy about that. Jack debated for a moment if he should share what he discovered. Just before he could make that decision, the call to board their train was announced. Elizabeth stood and started gathering their things. Jack quickly stood and helped. As Jack reached for the luggage, a porter for the train quickly approached and offered to help. He led them to their compartment on the train before excusing himself. Once they were settled on the train, Jack pulled Elizabeth closer to him, the newspaper sitting just to the other side of Jack.

"Please don't be mad at me." Jack said.

"Why would I be mad?" Elizabeth asked.

"I didn't plan this, but it happened and now we will have to deal with it." Jack said.

"Jack." Elizabeth said. "You are starting to scare me, please just tell me what is going on."

Jack reached over, grabbed the newspaper and opened it up and showed Elizabeth. She looked it over and read what it said.

"Oh my." Elizabeth said. "I didn't even notice the photographer. I usually am aware when they are around. Father is really not going to like this."

"Oh well." Jack said. "There isn't much that we can do about it now. There is no law that says I can't take my beautiful wife out."

"Well at least now I know why it felt like people were watching us." Elizabeth said. "Because they were."

"Are you okay?" Jack asked.

"Like you said." Elizabeth laughed. "There isn't much that we can do and there is no law against me going out with my dashing husband. And you were so dashing in that suit. Where did you get it?"

"I don't know." Jack said. "Wynn took me somewhere and they fitted it to me. Apparently, your mother insisted. It is the nicest suit I have ever had. It is more comfortable than anything I have worn. I am glad that I trusted Wynn enough to just go with it. Actually getting fitted for the suit was not the most comfortable for me, but since I knew it was for you, I didn't mind. The only thing that wasn't mine were the cufflinks that Wynn offered to me. Since I now have several shirts that require cufflinks, I think I am going to have to do better than the simple ones that I picked up in Benson Hills for our first date."

"That is right." Elizabeth said. "She did tell Aunt Elizabeth to make sure you had a nice suit. I just assumed that you would borrow one of Dee's. I will help with the cufflinks. We can order some that match my jewelry. They may not be here before your birthday, but they will be here for spring."

"That is what I thought as well." Jack said. "We will definitely have to find another time to wear it with that dress. Did I mention how much I love that dress? Don't worry about the cufflinks. I am going to write to Ma and see if she can send me some of the ones that Dad had. He had been gifted a few as a Mountie and I would love to wear them."

"Once or twice." Elizabeth teased him.

Jack and Elizabeth ordered some tea and also placed their order for supper, before settling into their compartment on the train. When their tea was delivered, it came with pastries and a note of congratulations. Jack just thanked the porter who brought their cart and closed the door. When Elizabeth saw it, she just laughed. They enjoyed their afternoon on the train, they shared kisses and cuddled. Jack finished reading the newspaper and Elizabeth started on the book that she had bought. After they enjoyed a nice supper, they changed clothes and settled into the bed. Even though they really hadn't done that much that day, Elizabeth was tired and quickly fell asleep. Jack sat up for a bit and pulled out his sketchbook and worked on another drawing. He wanted to draw him and Elizabeth dancing from the picture in the paper. He pulled out his colored pencils and added a few flashes of color like the blue in Elizabeth ring and the red in her earrings. He finished the drawing and stared at it for a bit before closing his portfolio and snuggling next to his wife.