Author's Note:

This chapter is long for this story. I hope you are enjoying it. Things progress and are finally settled. Be the reason for someone's smile.

Chapter 58

About an hour later, Jack walked into the lobby of the hotel. He had an hour before his scheduled meeting with D. A. Scott. He enjoyed his stroll around Medicine Hat after his visit with William. It was nice to walk around town and gazing at the buildings and shops. He had no destination in mind, nor did he have a schedule to keep other than his dinner with Scott. He enjoyed a more relaxed afternoon. The weather was nice. The sun was shining. Since he was a little further north, the air was a bit cooler, but it was by no means cold.

Jack glanced toward the counter but the man behind it was busy with a customer. He nodded his head, but the gentleman didn't see him. He would check on his way out if there were any messages for him. Instead of taking the elevator, which he still wasn't too sure about, he walked up the stairs. It felt good to move around. He pulled the room keys out of his pocket and played with them as he walked down the stairs. For whatever reason, he was greatly missing his family at that moment. He nodded at a bell hop as they passed each other in the hallway. He stepped to door 239 and inserted the key into the doorknob. He turned it and opened the door, walking inside without looking up.

…

Mr. Kensington, Charles, and Mr. Wilson all arrived in town on the train. They hated the ride but were hoping this was the last trip they had to make to this awful, hick town. They felt comfortable with the trial beginning tomorrow. The trial is set to begin at nine in the morning. Their last pretrial meeting was set for eight. It was the prosecutors and defense attorney's last chance for a plea agreement.

"Let's get settled in the hotel and then we can try to find some food in this place."

"Yes, father. We need to rest for tomorrow. It is going to be a big day, but a good day."

"I believe so." Mr. Wilson stated. "If things go our way, we will be leaving this town tomorrow afternoon."

"I sure hope you are correct. This needs to end for my son. His future needs to start once this nightmare is over.

"I'm expecting this to be over very soon." Charles stated.

"Let's say 'hope' instead of 'expecting'. We can't be certain of anything. This is a matter of the courts. It can be hard to figure out at times. However, I do feel good with our argument."

…

Jack walked into his hotel room with his head down. He turned to close the door. With his back still to the inside of the room, he heard a voice he knew all too well.

"Hey daddy!"

Jack stiffened looking at the door. "How…?" He stated as he slowly turned around. He first saw his beautiful wife and then his handsome son sitting on the edge of his bed. Both of them were wearing a large smile. "Wow! This is a great surprise!" He stated as his smile only increased at the sight of his family and the realization of them being in his room. "What are you two doing here?"

"Frank brought us."

"Frank's here?"

"No, he's on his way back home."

"Ok, that's how you got here, now why are you here?" He stated turning his attention from his boy to his wife.

Elizabeth repositioned herself on the edge of Jack's bed. She felt a little shy about why she wanted to come, and a little nervous. Her husband looked fine. He was a little surprised at their presence, but he looked good.

"That's a weird story…"

…

Charles was getting a little antsy from just sitting around the hotel room. While his father and his lawyer were satisfied sitting and resting in the hotel rooms, he was not. His nerves built in nervous energy that he needed to work out before he was able to rest tonight.

As he walked down the street, he noticed two mounties in their red serge walking toward him. His first thought was that one of them was Jack. He glared at the two men even after he realized that they weren't Jack. He wasn't sure if Jack would be called to the trial but figured he would be since he was the arresting officer. He wasn't certain how all of this worked. He wasn't looking forward to seeing that man. He took his life that he should be living. He should be the one that is married to Elizabeth and in control of Thatcher Shipping. He still couldn't believe that Jack beat him. How could a back water lawman beat him with a woman that was his best friend since they were four years old?

After walking another couple of minutes, he crossed another man in a red serge. He held his breath until he passed the man and noticed that he wasn't his nemesis. Get ahold of yourself Charles. You can't let that little man get in your head like this. He reprimanded himself a couple of times. He shook his head. He just couldn't wait for this whole ordeal to be over.

…

"JJ did this?" Mr. Johnston stood on the front porch looking over the front of the ground where JJ laid out all the river stones.

"He did." Mr. P stated. "I'm amazed at it. If it looks this great on the ground, I can't even imagine what it will look like on the walls."

"True. Then he has the rocks for a flower bed."

"Did he tell you where he wanted it?"

"He pointed in that general direction." Mr. Johnston pointed to the right of the porch. "He didn't say exactly. He left quickly. He mentioned he was going with Elizabeth to see Jack. Something about being the man in charge and having to stand with his mommy."

The two men laughed. "That sounds just like him."

"Well…let's get this up on the wall. I think it would be nice to have it completed before they get home. That would be a great coming home present."

The two men, with the help of another volunteer, began to mix the material that will stick it to the wall. Then one by one, they began to take each stone and place it exactly the same pattern on the wall. They felt they owed it to the young man. He spent all morning working on the pattern.

…

"Well…that's an unusual story…" Elizabeth began.

"Yeah…" JJ cut in. "We had this weird feeling that something bad was going to happen. We just couldn't shake it. We were uncomfortable staying at home. So, we decided to come here since it wasn't too far. Frank brought us. He's on his way home."

"You came because you had a weird feeling?"

Both Elizabeth and JJ nodded their heads. Elizabeth was a little surprised her son stepped up like he did in explaining. He was trying to take some of the load off his mother.

"Daddy, is there a privy or an outhouse?"

"End of the hall." He nodded to his left.

Jack and Elizabeth watched as their son stand and walked to the door. "I'll be right back." They nodded their heads in understanding.

After JJ left and closed the door, Jack turned his attention to his beautiful wife. She walked straight into his open arms. She placed her head on his chest and shoulder as he tightened his arms around her.

"So, we had a weird feeling?"

"Our son is stepping up and being the man you instructed him to be."

"What do you mean?"

"I had this weird feeling. I was going to leave him with Auntie Abagail and come alone. Frank offered to bring me, but he wasn't going to stay. He's camping out tonight and traveling the rest of the way home tomorrow morning. JJ argued with me about coming. I got a little frustrated with him because he was so defiant. However. He was set on coming with me because he was the man of the house and he needed to protect me." Her voice was loving as she described JJ's actions. "He was so sweet with his determination. He kept saying he was standing with me just like you told him to."

"I'm proud of him for wanting to stand with his mommy."

"Me too."

"So, this weird feeling?"

"I don't know. It's just a weird feeling I had and couldn't get rid of. I was worried." Her voice trailed off. She sounded weak and she didn't like that.

Jack listened to her explanation. When she finished, he squeezed her a little tighter as he gave thought about what she said. "I love you, Bella."

"You're not upset?"

"Why would I be? I'm sorry you were worried. I'm fine, nothing too dangerous on this mission."

"I know, but I was still worried, and I couldn't shake it. I'm sorry for coming."

"Elizabeth, thank you for coming to check on me."

"You're not mad?"

"Why in the world would I be mad? Plus, I was going to miss you over the next few days. How long are you staying?"

"I'm not sure…" Her voice trailed off again. "I just wanted to check in on you. I'm sorry."

Jack interrupted her with a soft kiss. "I'm not sorry. Thank you for coming. Now, if I was on a dangerous mission, I would have been upset. I never want you in a position to be hurt. However, I'm not on that type of mission. How about your schoolwork?"

"I'm far enough along that it won't be any trouble."

"So, you'll stay with me as long as I'm here?"

"You don't care?"

"Why would I care? You're here now and I'm excited about it. I'm glad you are here. I wasn't looking forward to being away from you two for even one night."

She was a little nervous he would be upset that she was worried and just showed up. She wasn't surprised he wasn't upset. That just wasn't him. If she wasn't so worried, she wouldn't have been concerned about his reaction. She smiled at his hug. She felt better in his arms and her worry was beginning to disappear.

"I guess it's your last assignment…maybe it's with all this mess with my father, the sawmill, and the assault charges against Charles. I don't know. I just had this feeling that I couldn't get rid of. As hard and Abagail tried to talk to me, I still just couldn't get it out of me. It just lingered."

"Maybe it is all of those different things. I think that's why your stomach has been a little upset. There is just so much going on. Plus, when you add the new home onto it and with the company and all of that, it's no wonder you had a feeling."

"I guess." She rested her head on his chest. "Thank you for not making me feel silly."

"Elizabeth, thank you for coming. This really is an easy assignment. Maybe your stomach is just wrong with this one since so many other things are going on."

"Let's hope that's what this is."

"I went to see your father." He broke the silence.

Before she was able to respond, JJ walked into the room. "You saw Mr. Thatcher?" He asked.

"I did. He's here for the trial."

"How is he?" Elizabeth asked.

"He's good. He apologized to me and asked if I would give him time to prove himself to be a changed man."

"What did you say?" She asked softly as they released the hug a little since JJ was in the room.

They didn't release the hug completely. Jack was insistent that he showed controlled love toward his wife in front of his son. He needed to know that his father loved his mother without it being too much intimacy in front of the young boy.

"I told him that I would give him enough time to prove himself true. That time would determine if he was sincere or not."

"You gave him time?" JJ asked.

"I did. He said he was sorry and asked for time to prove himself true. I believe he has earned that right."

Jack and Elizabeth could see their son thinking. They knew JJ didn't want anything to do with William and they knew he would always call him by his proper name. With Jack giving her father a chance, they were beginning to wonder if JJ would follow suit. It gave Elizabeth hope that her boy would give her changed father a chance.

"JJ…my father would always tell me that if a man is truly sorry, he has earned the opportunity, a chance, to change if he really wants. I'm giving Mr. Thatcher that opportunity. He will determine the outcome, not me."

JJ thought about it for a moment. If his daddy was willing to give this man an opportunity to prove himself true, he would as well. JJ simply nodded his head in agreement.

"Time and Mr. Thatcher will give us the answer. Are you willing to change your mind if he does that?"

"If you will, I will."

Jack ruffled JJ's head. Elizabeth smiled with great pride in her husband and her son. Her precious little boy was growing up just like his daddy.

"I have an appointment for dinner with D. A. Scott that I need to go to. It's a small walk. Would you two like to go with me?"

"Are you sure?"

"I am. He sent me a letter I received when I was on the stagecoach. There was also a note here at the hotel when I checked in."

"Let's go. I'm hungry." JJ exclaimed.

"You're always hungry." Jack and Elizabeth stated at the same time.

…

Jack and Elizabeth turned out of the hotel lobby with JJ just in front of them. The early evening air felt perfect. Jack was excited that his family was with him. This is his last assignment. He knew these types of trips would be very few when he became sheriff. He wasn't looking forward to being away from his family. He was happy they were with him on this trip.

JJ walked just in front of them. He didn't know where he was going, he was just listening to the direction his daddy gave him. Elizabeth and Jack were just behind him. She had her hand in the bend of his elbow, and he had her pulled close to him. He loved having her close.

"How in the world…?" Charles asked in disbelief as he looked out the window of the cafe and saw Elizabeth and Jack walk by with that little boy in front of them. "Can't I get away from that mountie?" He spoke out loud.

"I'm sorry, sir." The person behind the counter asked.

"Nothing." He never took his eyes off Elizabeth.

I know she said she's adopting that boy…I guess he'll have to go away for school. He thought. I'm not raising another man's son. Charles glared out the large shop window. He watched as they walked by.

"Is this the place daddy?"

"It's called Smoke-in-Fire. I believe it's a barbecue place."

"Sounds interesting. I don't think I've ever had barbecue." JJ stated.

"We'll see what they have. I bet you will like it." Elizabeth stated.

…

Grace and Viola stepped off the late train. They had no intention of traveling to Medicine Hat, but Viola wanted to attend the trial. With her insistence on going, Crace didn't want her to travel alone. She also welcomed an additional chance to see her husband. She didn't know if she would be able to talk to him, but at least she could see him. For Grace, that was worth the travel.

They didn't know it, but Teddy Lewis was on the train as well. He wanted to be there for William. Not only as his lawyer, but as his friend. He wanted to support him and be there if he needed his attorney. When he realized Grace and Viola were going to Medicine Hat, he sent a telegram to the hotel he was staying at and requested another room for them.

On the train ride, Teddy and Grace spoke about the girl's home along with William's part of testifying during the trial. Viola sat back and listened. She tried to read during their conversation, but she couldn't keep from listening. She was a little surprised at some of the truths they spoke concerning Charles' part of the scheme against the sawmill.

…

"Sergeant Thornton." Scott stood from the waiting area of the restaurant.

"Yes sir." Jack stated as he stepped forward. "I'm Sergeant Thronton. You must be D. A. Scott?"

"Yes. Please call me James."

"James, this is my wife, Elizabeth, and my son, JJ. They surprised me on my trip here."

Elizabeth smiled at his statement.

"Nice to meet you. I'm sorry, but this will be a working dinner. You are welcome to join us, but I'm afraid the conversation won't be too pleasant."

"That's ok, James. We understand Jack is working. I'm sorry to step into your plans."

"You're fine. Now, if we may." James extended his hand to show the way. Their table was waiting for them.

After sitting down and looking over the menu, they all ordered. Elizabeth ordered barbecue chicken with a side of vegetables while the three men ordered a barbecue plate with cole slaw and vegetables.

…

Mr. Johnston and Mr. P stood back and looked at their handiwork. They were halfway done with the river rock portion of the front wall. They were absolutely amazed at the beauty of it.

"You know…when Jack came to me with this idea, I honestly thought he was crazy. I mean, it's a beautiful rock, but who would have guessed it would look this nice on a house?"

"I know. What's so different about it is that it seems to change in color with the changing sun."

"Just wait until you see it get wet from the rain. It will change colors."

"So, their house will always be changing colors?"

"Yes, a little. I'm wanting to see how it does in the snow."

"That may look something like fireworks."

"It will be beautiful I think."

They stood admiring the wall for a few more moments.

"How did that boy figure out the number of rocks to get?"

"Mr. P, I have no idea. He told us to get two and a half wagons and that would be enough for the wall and a flowerbed. I don't know how he knew. He just did."

Mr. Johnston looked around and the pile of rocks what were left would be just enough for a flowerbed. "That little boy may be smarter than we all think."

"He really is, and I don't think he understands how smart he is."

…

"Jack, please walk me through the whole process of the sawmill from the first explosion until the transfer of the prisoners. I don't need play by play details. I have those in my reports. I just want to go over the highlights with you. This will be basically your testimony during the trial. I will ask any questions that I want clarity on."

"Yes. It started…"

Jack spent a few minutes going over the highlights of the story. Occasionally James would interrupt with a question to clarify Jack's story or to emphasize a point. Jack and Elizabeth noticed that James was following along on a handwritten notes he had in front of him. In that moment, they knew the D. A. was meticulous in his work. With each point Jack hit on, James would nod his head. He knew the story without looking at his notes. This made Elizabeth more comfortable.

"Then they were transported to Medicine Hat for trial. That's where you came in."

"Perfect Jack. That will be almost exactly how your testimony with me will go if you testify."

"I'm sorry to interrupt, James, but you keep saying 'if you testify'…is there a change Jack won't testify during the trial?"

"There is always a chance for a plea deal."

"You would accept a plea deal?"

"That depends on you. I'm glad you're here. That saves me time tomorrow."

"On me?"

"I never accept a plea deal without the approval of the victim."

"I'm sorry, James. I am not a victim." Elizabeth stated with determination.

"I'm sorry…without the approval of the plaintiff."

"A plea deal would cover the whole case?"

"No Elizabeth. This is two separate cases. One against the sawmill and the assault on you. Your father has reconciled everything with Mr. Coulter with his plea deal. Mr. Coulter could care less about Mr. Kensington's part of it. For Mr. Coulter, he is settled, and the case is closed to him. He just doesn't care about Mr. Kensington. He did tell me that I can use that part of the charges against Mr. Kensington. I'm still prosecuting his role in the sawmill attacks. Mr. Coulter has given me that freedom to do that at my discretion. That strengthens my case with the assault charge."

Elizabeth nodded her head.

"Would you be willing to accept any deal on the assault charges?"

Elizabeth looked toward Jack.

"I believe that is entirely your decision to make." Jack stated. She knew he was giving the choice all to her. For her, it was a no brainer.

"No plea deal if he doesn't serve jail time."

"Are you sure?"

"What's the normal jail time for assault?"

"Simple assault is usually six to twelve months."

"And a more serious assault?"

"Twelve months to five years. It depends on the seriousness of the assault along with a few other factors."

"And if he is found guilty on the current charges against him now?"

"My educated guess would be with him being found guilty of both charges without a plea deal would be eight to fifteen years."

Elizabeth thought about it for a moment. "Any plea deal would have to include at least six months in jail. Anything fewer than that, I would not support it."

"And the sawmill?"

"That is between you and Lee. For my part, I demand six months."

"Got it."

"Are you happy with the case against him?"

"I am Elizabeth. I have a lot of evidence including Jack's testimony along with your father's. I just can't see a way of him getting out of it."

"Ms. Herron seems to think that Mr. Wilson and both Mr. Kensington and his father feel confident about their chances."

"Mr. Wilson isn't as confident as both of the Kensingtons are. I have a feeling they will try something. My thoughts are they will plead the assault down to basically nothing in hopes that it will buy them good graces in the sawmill case. In my discussion with Ms. Herron looking over the evidence, I think I know what Mr. Wilson will argue. He will argue that it was all Mr. Thatcher's doing and he was simply following orders."

"Do you think that will work?"

"Very doubtful but you never know. That will depend on the judge. However, I have a lot of evidence given to me by your father that stated some of this was Mr. Kensington's doing and planning. While you father was the leader of this, he wasn't alone in the active planning and advancing this plan against the sawmill."

"I understand that no trail is a guarantee, but how do you feel, honestly?"

"You're correct Jack that nothing is a guarantee in a courtroom. However, I am very confident in the chances that this case goes the way we would like for it to if it goes to trial."

"Mr. Wilson is confident in his case." Jack added.

"He is, according to Ms. Herron. I'm not sure why he is. I think he's trying to reflect one case off the other. Like I mention before, he pleads guilty to simple assault, he feels that buys him the reputation of being an honest man. Like, 'see, I admit to this, but I only did it because I was jilted. I did it. However, with the sawmill, I was only following orders.' I think Mr. Wilson is selling him on this argument and they are buying into it because Mr. Kensington and his father want to believe it. There's just no way he is getting away with this much evidence against him. I would dare say that Mr. Wilson is covering himself by claiming if they get the right judge, Charles will get off."

"Will you meet with the defense team before the trail tomorrow?"

"Yes Elizabeth. I have a meeting with them at eight in the morning with the judge. It's our last chance to plead this out and avoid trial. It's very common."

"Remember James, no plea deal unless he serves six months in jail for his assault on me and I do not want it pleaded down to simple assault."

"I understand, Elizabeth." James hesitated for a few moments. "I do believe he has an ulterior motive in all of this."

"I agree." Elizabeth and Jack stated at the same time.

"James." Elizabeth finally stated after a few seconds of silence. "Charles has this tell he does whenever he is being dishonest or holding something back."

"What do you mean?"

"Ever since he was a little kid, he would do this little thing when he wasn't completely forthright with something. I don't think he knows he does it. Viola first noticed it when he was five or so. It has always been true. Like I said, I don't think he knows he does it."

"Ok." James elongated.

"He will rub his nose at least once. If it is a major lie or a major secret, he will rub it twice."

"Really?"

"Yeah, that's how we knew if he was lying to us. One for normal stuff and two times for anything major."

"Thank you, Elizabeth. That will help in my meeting with him tomorrow."

The four of them spend a few more minutes just talking getting to know each other. Jack and Elziabeth were comforted that James was well prepared for the trial. His arguments and thoughts on Charles and his possible line of thinking made them feel good. They agreed with James is that Charles was hoping to gain credit by pleading on the assault and then arguing that William was the sole leader on the sawmill.

JJ chimed in when the discussion stopped being about mommy's nightmare. He just didn't want to talk about that man. He was very protective of his mommy.

…

Elizabeth woke up the next morning with an upset stomach. She was nauseated but didn't get sick. She opened her eyes to her little boy sleeping on a cot. Her and Jack was on the little bed in the room. Since it was only supposed to be Jack, the room was on the small side. They tried to change rooms, but the hotel was full. She didn't mind sleeping in a small bed with her husband. She always slept close to him anyways. She was on her right side and Jack was against her. She felt his bare chest on her back. His arm was wrapped around her with his hand resting on her stomach. She loved waking up like this. She was grateful Jack slept without a shirt on. She wondered if he would still do that during the winter months.

She laid still for a few moments trying to get her tummy under control. She knew it was because of the trail today. She hated her friend was going through this, but he did this himself. She was very adamant about him serving jail time for his assault against her. She reminded James of that before leaving dinner. She smiled when Jack pulled her close to him. He always did that just before he woke up.

"Good morning, Bella."

"Good morning, Jack. How are you?"

"Better."

She smiled knowing that he meant she was in his arms. She was better too because of it.

"Why don't you begin to get ready while I head downstairs for a little breakfast. There is a small café in the corner of the hotel. I'll get us something to eat and bring it back. Maybe JJ will be up by then."

"Sounds good. I don't think I want anything to eat."

"Really? Maybe a scone?"

"I'll take some tea." She stated as she rolled over and scooted closer in his embrace. "And a blueberry scone." She added when she saw his facial expression. She could see the worry in his eyes.

"I'm sorry for today." Jack whispered.

"It's not your fault he did the stupid things he did. He knew better and now he must face his punishment."

Jack slightly nodded his head. He knew this was difficult for her.

"Now, why don't you make it up to me this morning?" She flirted as she wiggled a little closer to him. She slightly kissed his neck and began to move up his neck to his chin.

"Good morning mommy and daddy." She stopped kissing when she heard her little boys voice. While in Jack's arms, she forgot he was sleeping on the cot.

"Good morning my precious boy. How are you? Did you sleep well?"

"I did. I'm going to the water closet. I'll be right back."

She giggled as he quickly moved around the room. Her back was still to him. The door quickly opened. He was in such a hurry that he didn't close the door all the way when he left.

"I bet he didn't put his boots on, did he?"

"I didn't notice, but I would guess he didn't." He pulled her a little closer. He was enjoying her closeness. He loved these few minutes with her in the mornings. Those precious moments meant everything to him. Those small, intimate moments kept him connected to her as a husband.

"I guess I need to get up. You know your son will come busting through the door demanding food."

"Our son…" He smirked. "Yes, he will want breakfast. I guess I need to get up."

"In a moment." She tightened her hold on him. "I'm not ready to leave this spot just yet."

…

The judge sat down looking around this huge room. In this courthouse, it was the judge's chambers. However, this judge wasn't used to the area. He was brought into this specific case. Finding a judge that hasn't heard of Mr. Thatcher or Thatcher Shipping proved to be difficult. While this judge has heard of these things, he wasn't familiar with them. He was as impartial a judge in this matter than the government could find.

Judge Black was a no nonsense judge. He had a country man's way of thinking. He was absolute in his thinking of right and wrong. No one, and I mean no one, could persuade him if he thought he was right. However, if you came with facts and not just opinions, he was open minded enough to change his way of thinking. He was an independent man. While all the other judges had a clerk to help with the paperwork and arrange things such as travel or the judge's schedule, Judge Black refused a clerk. He was not to be dependent on anyone. He was his own man.

"Good morning, Mr. Scott."

"Good morning, Mr. Wilson. Are you ready to meet with the judge?"

"I am. Do you know who the judge is?"

"Judge Black."

"Perfect. We'll be there in a few minutes."

After Scott left, Mr. Wilson turned to Mr. Kensington and his father. "We have a good shot at this. That judge is a straight shooter. If we can convince him, we're home free."

"If we can't convince him?" Charles asked.

"Then you will spend a long time in jail. With this guy, it's all or nothing. He will push for a plea deal. He always does."

"Perfect." The senior Kensington stated. "Do your magic."

"Let's go, Charles. I don't want to keep him waiting."

The men began to walk toward the courthouse steps. Mr. Wilson stopped the senior Kensington. "I'm sorry, sir. Only Charles and I are allowed in the judge's chambers."

"Doesn't he know who I am?"

"He would have done his homework. I assume he does, but he doesn't care who you are."

"But I…"

"Let's not give him cause to dislike Charles before the trial begins."

Mr. Kensington nodded his head. "Fine. I expect to hear something as soon as possible."

"You'll know something within the hour."

…

Judge Black looked up from his paperwork when the knock on the door came and it opened.

"Gentlemen, please come in and have a seat."

Scott nodded his head as he was the first one through the door. Then Mr. Wilson and Charles followed. Everyone nodded their heads except Charles. He could feel Judge Black watching him intently.

"Gentlemen, there is no need for pleasantries. Let's begin. Mr. Scott, what do you have to offer Mr. Kensington?"

"If Mr. Kensington would plead guilty to all charges, he would receive five years in a minimum security prison at the location to be determined by the government and then be released on four years of probation."

Mr. Wilson scoffed at the offer. "That's absurd James! There is no…"

"Mr. Wilson. You will not speak to the D. A. in this meeting. You will address all of your conversation to me. Understand?"

"Yes, your honor. I apologize."

"Very well. Please continue."

"Judge Black, in that mountain of paperwork you have sworn affidavits from numerous, well respected individuals from Hamilton that knows both Mrs. Thornton and Mr. Kensington." The judge and James noticed Charles's flinch when he used Elizabeth's married name. "The simple assault is the result of a jilted lover. He was shocked when they broke up and Mr. Kensington was devasted. He had no intent of causing the love of his life pain or suffering."

"I read there were bruising on the wrist and upper arm of Mrs. Thornton."

"Three bruises total, sir. Two on her wrist and one on her upper arm. Hardly life threating. It was a lover's quarrel. Mr. Kensington was upset at losing his future wife and fiancé."

"She wasn't his fiancé during this time."

"No your honor, that was the problem."

"I see from some residents in Hope Valley, and from the constable's report, that Mrs. Thornton pushed him away, repeatedly asked him to stop, and eventually hit Mr. Kensington."

"Yes, your honor. All from the perspective of a lover that was done wrong. He was hurt and acting in emotion."

"A friend your honor. I have a few of those sworn affidavits as well that state that Elizabeth repeatedly told Mr. Kensington that they were not engaged. They even go so far as to say that they never dated."

"Mrs. Thornton left that small town on the arm of Mr. Kensington. She gave my client every thought that she accepted his marriage proposal in that school building. He honestly assumed they were engaged to be married."

"I see." Judge Black looked over his notes again. Then he picked up a file of papers that contained the affidavits from both lawyers. "So, this is a she said/he said scenario?"

"Yes your honor." Scott spoke clearly. "With one caveat."

"And that would be?"

"Mrs. Thornton repeatedly told Mr. Kensington they were not dating and were most certainly not engaged. She left with Mr. Kensington to visit her family to speak with them about her life in Hope Valley. She left Hamilton and Mr. Kensington behind to go back home and to repair the damage with Sergeant Jack Thornton. Where they reconciled, became engaged, and married."

"I see." Black rubbed his beard. He took a few moments to relook at some of the affidavits. Mr. Scott would the five years cover the sawmill as well?"

"Yes, your honor. Mr. Thatcher has already submitted all restitution to the satisfaction of Mr. Coulter, the owner of the mill."

"I see the letter from Mr. Coulter." Then he turned his attention to Mr. Wilson.

"What is your argument concerning the sawmill and your client's potential involvement?"

"There is no potential involvement. He was involved at the request of his boss, Mr. Thatcher. It was his plan to shut down the sawmill to force the town to close. Then Ms. Thatcher would move back home and return to her courtship with Mr. Kensington. He was simply following orders of his employer…nothing more and nothing less. If he refused a command, he would have been fired."

"Your honor, you have a detailed letter from Mr. Thatcher explaining everything he thought and hoped. He was actively trying to convince Mrs. Thornton to accept Mr. Kensington's engagement. Once she didn't, he came up with this plan to destroy the only way for people in Hope Valley to make a living. As Mr. Wilson stated, once that closed, Mrs. Thornton would be forced to move back home. If Mr. Kensington was simply following the orders of his employer, how can he contain that he was a jilted lover? It was weeks between her leaving Hamilton and the assault on Mrs. Thornton."

"Mr. Wilson…?" The judge asked.

"The assault was his first time in seeing his ex fiancé. It was too much for a man to accept."

"If that's the case, how many women would be safe in this county? Mr. Kensington knew of Mrs. Thornton's decision, and he was trying to take something that wasn't his to take. He even said so in his discussion with her during the assault. You have Mrs. Thornton's account that is verified by two other witnesses. Also in Mr. Thatcher's letter, it was Mr. Kensington's reasoning that the explosions be separated in time so no one would look too deep in them. Mr. Thatcher wanted it done immediately. However, it was Mr. Kensington's appeal to slow things down. There is also other evidence where he planned with the lead man in Hope Valley. He signed a check for payment from his own account and meet with the inside man on three different occasions. On top of that, the recording while he was in the jail is very telling."

"I have listened to the recording and read the transcript of it."

"Your honor, all of this is circular thinking. Mr. Kensington performed his duties well at the request of his employer. He did exactly what his employer wanted him to do. We would like to counter the D. A.'s plea deal." Mr. Wilson felt like he was losing the argument. If found guilty, he was expecting Charles to spend about fifteen years in prison followed by probation. He didn't want that.

"Go ahead."

"Mr. Kensington would plead to simple assault of Ms. Thatcher and serve no jail time. He would be on probation for four years and the case against the sawmill would be dropped. He was following orders and Mr. Coulter has already been paid back all the losses he suffered as a result from Mr. Thatcher's actions. He is happy with the outcome."

"Your honor, the Province is not willing to drop the charges against Mr. Kensington. He must be held accountable for what he did wrong. We are not ready to accept no jail time for his assault on Mrs. Thornton. Sir, would you please instruct the defendant to address Mrs. Thornton by her married name. She may not have been a Thornton at the time of the assault, but she is now and would like to be addressed as such."

"Very well."

Judge Black sat back in the chair and looked at the pile of papers in front of him. He grabbed his pad of papers and looked at the note he made himself on the last page. He often did this after looking through the paperwork. It was his first impressions of the case before him. He mostly went with his gut feeling unless the lawyers were able to change his mind.

"Mr. Scott, what is the least you would accept from Mr. Kensington?"

"Twelve months of jail time for the sawmill case and twelve months for the assault case. It would remain an assault case and not be reduced to simple assault. After his release, he would be on probation for four years."

"Mr. Wilson?"

"That's just not acceptable, your honor. The assault was a lover's quarrel. Mr. Kensington didn't plan, nor did he finance the scheme against the sawmill. Mr. Kensington would accept a plea deal for two months of jail for his simple assault and the sawmill with two years of probation."

"Your honor, I spoke with Mrs. Thornton last night. She would not accept anything under six months in jail and asked for the assault to remain. She didn't want it to be labeled simple assault."

"She wouldn't…"

"Mr. Kensington, you have a lawyer to speak on your behalf. I would greatly advise you to use him." Judge Black warned in a tone that was unmistakable.

…

Jack, Elizabeth, and JJ made their way to the courthouse. Elizabeth tummy was feeling better after the tea. She did eat about half of the scone. JJ was in the middle of his parents holding their hands. As they turned the corner, they saw Elizabeth's mother and sister standing with Mr. Watts at the base of the stairs leading into the building.

"Grandma!" JJ called out. He let go of his parents' hands and ran toward Grace. "Grandma! Grandma Grace!" He kept calling out.

Grace's smile grew at the sound of the little voice she knew well. "There's my grandson!" She exclaimed as JJ ran toward her. She caught him in a big grandmother's hug. Viola stood back watching the whole spectacle. Viola was still having trouble with the whole process.

"Mother." Elizabeth stated as she stepped toward her mother and son.

"Elizabeth." She gave her middle child a hug. "It's so good to see you."

Elizabeth offered her older sister a very small smile. She wasn't willing to give her more than that. She remembered her sister's treatment of her son. She wasn't so willing to forget it.

"Have you seen father?"

"No. I'm hoping I can speak with him when this is all over. Whenever that is."

Jack smiled. "I know the constables in charge of his care. I spoke to them yesterday when I visited Mr. Thatcher."

"You visited William?" Grace asked.

"I did. I wanted to report back to Elizabeth how he's doing."

Elizabeth lowered her head and smiled. She was grateful that he always thought of her and put her first. She made a conscious effort to follow his lead in putting her husband first.

"That's very kind of you, Jack. Thank you."

"I know one of the constables well. He owes me a favor."

"You worked it out so mother can see him, didn't you."

Jack nodded his head. "I did. Actually, you all may see him the night before he leaves. Grace, there is something special planned for you."

"Thank you, Jack. I was just hoping to see him." Grace wiped away a tear just before he hugged him. "Thank you."

…

Judge Black and Charles locked their eyes for just a moment. "Yes sir." Charles finally stated.

"As I mentioned, Mrs. Thornton demanded Mr. Kensington to serve at least six months for the assault and for it not to be reduced to simple assault."

"May I ask why?" Judge Black asked.

"Mrs. Thornton is adamant that Mr. Kensington understands that what he did was wrong. He crossed the line with her."

"I understand."

Judge Black sat back again. He thought over everything. He also reread his notes.

"Your honor, may I ask what your pretrial judgment would be?" Mr. Wilson asked.

"You both understand this pretrial judgment is not binding?"

"Yes sir." Both attorneys stated.

"With the affidavits I have in front of me along with pieces of evidence that is cataloged, I would find the defendant guilty of all charges. Now, we all understand that the trial may bring forth an argument that would change the outcome."

Mr. Wilson thought for a moment. This was a turn that he knew would be a setback. He didn't have an argument that he thought would change Judge Black's opinion. After a few moments of silence, he spoke.

"Mr. Kensington pleads guilty to both charges. He serves six months in a low security prison and two years of probation."

Charles grabbed his arm. "No." He whispered in a strong tone.

"It's this or you go to jail for years." He matched Charles' tone. "Then we can take our changes with arguing the unlawful termination." He lowered his voice even more.

"Fine." Charles huffed.

James watched the interaction between the two. When Charles wiped his nose twice, James blinked and then a smile came across his face. He remembered what Elizabeth told him the previous evening about Charles' tell. Now was his time to make his move. The move he decided on when he was speaking to Ms. Herron a few days ago.

"With one change…" Scott spoke. "…six months of prison at the Alberta Province's choosing, two years of probation, and Mr. Kensington forfeits any future claims of unlawful determination by Thatcher Shipping."

"That's ridiculous!" Exclaimed Charles. He quickly stood up from his chair. "That's completely ridiculous! There is no way I am going to submit to that!"

"Mr. Kensington…sit down and shut up!" Demanded Judge Black. "Another outburst and I will have you gagged and or removed from my chambers!"

Mr. Wilson sat Charles down and turned his attention back to the judge.

"Mr. Scott?"

"Your honor, that is my final offer. If Mr. Kensington refuses this lenient offer, we will begin trial in…" Mr. Scott looked at this pocket watch. "…fifteen minutes."

Judge Black turned his gaze to Mr. Wilson. "Sir, I do believe the D. A. is bending over backwards with this deal. You have ten minutes to discuss this with your client. We will meet here in my chambers in ten minutes for your final answer to his plea deal. Understand?"

"Yes your honor."

…

James stepped out into a crowded hallway. He noticed a red serge. Then he noticed Elizabeth and a couple of other individuals. He made his way to them.

"Sergeant and Mrs. Thronton, would you please come with me?"

They stepped into an empty room. Once the door closed, he informed the couple of the plea deal that was on the table.

"So, he will serve at least six months?"

"Yes Elizabeth. He will along with two years of probation following his release. However, the part of the plea deal that I think you would like other than the jail time, is the release of his claim of unlawful determination. If he accepts the plea deal, he forfeits the right to try to make that argument."

"If he takes it, I'm rid of him forever?"

"As far as this is concerned, yes."

"If he doesn't?"

"We begin trial in fifteen minutes. The judge gave him ten minutes to consider this. He also gave a pretrial judgment of guilty on both counts with multiple years of jail service. Now, that's not a guarantee but it gives us knowledge of where the judge sits at the moment."

"What do you think?" Elizabeth asked.

"He would be a fool not to take it."

"Are you ok with it?" Jack asked.

"As long as he serves time, I am fine with it."

…

Mr. Wilson nodded to the senior Mr. Kensington to follow them. Once they were in an empty office, he filled Charles' father in on the offered plea deal. To say he was incensed would be an understatement. He threw the book off the table and slammed his fist on the desk.

"How can he do that?"

"He's not required by law to come with a certain plea deal. It's just a plea deal. He can make any deals he wants. To be honest, it's a very generous deal. I believe he should accept it." He nodded to Charles.

"But if he takes it, he won't take over Thatcher Shipping."

"True, He will never work there again."

"But that wasn't the plan. He is to take over the company."

"I don't think that is a possibility. If we go to trial and lose, he will face about fifteen years in prison. He would never take over the company then. With the pretrial judgment, I don't think we can win this case."

"Charles, what do you think?" His father asked.

He huffed. He looked around the room as if its decorations would give him the answer he was searching for. His eyes feel on his father. His father looked at him with no answers. Then he looked at his lawyer.

"Honestly, what do you think my chances are if I take this to trial?"

Mr. Wilson let out a long breath. He looked at his pocket watch. "I don't think our chances are very good due to the letter from Mr. Thatcher. The judge thinks it carries a lot of weight. Rightfully so I think. It is very problematic. If I was facing what you are facing, I would take the deal. It really is a good deal. Six months compared to fifteen years? If you served that time, you would come out in your forties. You would miss out on so much."

"But I wouldn't take over the company."

"You won't anyways. No matter how this works out, I do not think you have the opportunity to take over Thatcher Shipping. I don't know why it's so important to you but are you really willing to give a good portion of your life for a minute's chance of taking it over? That doesn't make sense to me."

Charles sat down in a chair that was against the wall. "First, I was supposed to marry that woman. She's mine. We should be planning our wedding. I have loved her for a very long time."

"She has chosen Thornton. You are going to have to learn to accept that. You don't want to go to jail for that."

"Then I was supposed to take over the company to finally make it a Kensington company."

"What do you mean?"

"Father is the five percent owner. However, William never took father's initial investment seriously. He should have."

"I'm sorry to cut you off Charles, but we only have two minutes left to be in the judge's chambers." Mr. Wilson interrupted him.

Charles lowered his head for a moment and then stood. He looked directly into his father's eyes. After a few seconds, his father slightly nodded his head. Charles slowly turned his head to look at his lawyer.

"Take the deal."