Chapter 5 Courage to Find Peace
Perhaps more than anything those that mourn regret the time that was wasted. Time that could never be recaptured. You can never rewind the clock. But so many of Hope Valley's residents wished they could go back and have more time. Time to love just a little bit longer, to say things they had not said, and to memorize every moment shared. Jack Thornton's death had left a void in Elizabeth's heart. Her son, Little Jack had filled it up, yet there was a place in her heart that seemed that it would never be whole again. Perhaps it was essential to allow that part of her heart to just stand still and not be traversed with the need to move on. Elizabeth met Rosemary in front of her Row House. Rosemary held Goldie in her arms which prevented her from being overly dramatic. "Elizabeth! Such a glorious morning. How are you feeling today?" Elizabeth smiled graciously at the mother and daughter. "I'm fine, I just wish I had the words to describe how I am feeling right now, but I don't." "It's okay, words are not necessary for those of us who love you. You don't have to say anything, but if you do find the words I will be here to listen–just listen." "Thank you Rosemary, I really needed to hear that." So in comfortable silence the two friends walked into town.
Carson and Lucas arrived in Hope Valley around the same time. Carson headed toward Dr. Faith Carter's Office and Lucas towards the saloon. Neither had really noticed the other so intent on their intended missions. Carson entered what used to be the infirmary and was taken aback by the subtle changes. When he saw Faith standing with her back to him he was overwhelmed by hope and trepidation. "Hello Faith." he finally spoke. Faith turned in shock and confusion. "Carson what on earth are you doing here?" With an uncertain smile he replied, "I needed to see you… to talk to you…" Faith's slight smile broadened. "It's good to see you Carson" He looked into her eyes and smiled genuinely. "You too. Would you have dinner with me tonight?" With no hesitation she replied with one simple word, "Yes."- "I will pick you up around 6 if that's a good time for you?" "It's perfect." Carson stepped back slowly, "I'll see you soon." Carson exited Dr. Faith Carter's office with less trepidation and more hope than he had in a very long time.
Governor Bouchard…I mean Lucas what are you doing back in town? Not that you're not welcome but…" Mike stumbled over his words as he greeted his absentee boss. "Mike, I'm here to make arrangements for you to take over permanently running this place as a full partner. If you're interested?" Mike gave him a questioning look and said "Sure!" "Good I was hoping you would say that. I have big plans and I cannot wait to share them with the citizens of my hometown Hope Valley." Lucas excused himself to go make some phone calls from his office leaving Mike dumbstruck.
Elizabeth had not seen Nathan since her unapologetic explanation about her grief at the church. She was not avoiding him but she had not spent much time in town lately. Upon seeing him approach Newton as she sat on the porch of her rowhouse she wasn't quite sure what to say or do. He was strikingly handsome and provocatively unaware of his attractiveness. Elizabeth knew she could make room for him and Allie in her heart when the time was right if he still wanted to be a part of her life. At the moment she wanted to know that their friendship was still intact. Nathan dismounted and drew near to where Elizabeth sat. "Hi" he spoke with his head tilted to look at her. "Hi" Elizabeth returned. "I want you to know how grateful I am to you for what you said at the church the other day. It has helped a lot of people including me and Allie." She smiled softly at him and replied "I'm glad" "By the way Carson is back in town and Lucas is here. I saw them as I was coming back from my rounds." "Wow, Carson is here?" "Yes he went to see Faith, at least he was entering her office when I saw him." "He has perfect timing." "Yeah, he does, anyway I should get home." Tipping his hat he mounted Newton and rode off. Elizabeth watched him ride away and she had the oddest feeling in her heart. She felt real peace for the first time in a very long time. Courage had brought peace to Hope Valley.