A mountie to rely upon

by awdeano

This is the story of how Nathan rescued Little Jack and his visit to Fort Clay. He had to move on from Elizabeth and other new characters came into his life. They all avert catastrophe and they are forced to test how they feel now that we venture into season 9 and beyond. It's not going to be easy. I, along with the program's aim, try to arrive at a positive outcome for all of us.

2. Chapter 2

Life goes on at Hope Valley. The school year is on in earnest even though there is a cloud hanging over its continuation in current form. The school Inspector Mr Landis seems to dwell on the issues of Elizabeth's lack of qualifications and how she should not have taken on the task of teaching a blind girl in the classroom situation. The suggestion also, of an influx of around a hundred new students into the district in the near future, came from Mr Landis and could result in the school being taken over. Elizabeth soldiered on regardless and planned to deal with all of this if and when it eventuated. She did, however, plan to take steps to get the required credentials to be qualified to teach Angela who had proven to be a bright and willing student.

A few weeks have gone by since Elizabeth had been able to talk to Nathan and sort of break the ice. The injury that he received with the rescue of Little Jack and the trip to Fort Clay had really shaken her such that she could think of little else. All she wanted was for him to see that she cares so deeply for him. Even so, they rarely saw each other in the town as he didn't seem to have the time or even the inclination to stop and chat. If he was out of the office, he was usually on his rounds or other business.

Nathan felt much more relaxed and at home with his life in Hope Valley. He was really moved how Elizabeth had shown up at the jailhouse doorway and shown how she really cared for his feelings. He had disposed of the envelope and accepted that he still had a role to play in her and Little Jack's wellbeing. He also kept the knowledge of his choice of promotion and transfer under his hat for the foreseeable future. It was a relief for him to know that he could accept a promotion immediately if circumstances arose. He had not seen fit to reveal all this to Allie at this time as he felt that he was finally able to coexist with Elizabeth's and Lucas' courtship.

Now that life had settled down, Elizabeth was able to rekindle the relationship with the man she had fallen in love with. Lucas was a very relieved man by now and he knew to take things at a steady pace. From time to time he would see Nathan in the street, and he would be reminded of the anguish and jealousy that had plagued him for ages. He hoped that this was all over and that he could be with Elizabeth and have the engagement and subsequent wedding that he so desired. He would have to learn to accept that Nathan would still be around.

One particular morning Elizabeth and Little Jack were walking down the street. The little boy always had a wave from everybody and was a very popular part of the community. Nathan happened to be across the street as they wandered along. Suddenly, there was the bark of a little terrier and instantly the boy froze. He looked around and saw Nathan and raced over to him as quick as his little legs would carry him. Nathan picked him up, remembering his experience of a few weeks ago, and consoled him. "Everything will be okay little man," said the Mountie, "look at him, he's only a little dog. He probably wants to play with you." He gave Little Jack back to Elizabeth and said, "He'll be just fine." After a "have a nice day" he was off to do his rounds. Elizabeth thought quietly that cementing a meaningful relationship with this man was going to be a long and difficult process.

Lucas had seen all this from the front of the saloon and was rather bemused. He could see that there was a strong connection between the boy and Nathan. He wondered if he was to have a similar relationship in the future. Maybe he would just have to settle for the passing of time.

"Did you see that," said Elizabeth when they got to the saloon. "I tell you Lucas, the trust that Little Jack has for Nathan is amazing. Maybe it's the uniform or maybe the rescue, I don't know." Lucas was pleased to see them and asked Jack how he was. Jack looked at him but hardly had a response. "Would you like to go on a picnic after school finishes today, all three of us. I think we deserve a bit of relaxation." asked Lucas. "I'll have Gustav prepare some food and drink for us, maybe even some champagne. You can even pick the spot." he added with a grin.

Meanwhile, back in the jailhouse, Nathan had received a phone call from his father. It appears that someone had rang recently suggesting that there had been a problem with Allie's mother and that he could fix it. He just needed to know where she resides. "Nathan, I told him I have no idea where she might be, but he didn't listen to me. He said it was important and that I should tell him. He said he was coming here and that I would have to tell him." Nathan told him not to be alone at any time. He would make a few enquiries and get there as soon as he could.

Nathan's first call was to the prison complex where Allie's father was serving an extended sentence. There actually had been an escape recently and they had recaptured all but one of the escapees and sure enough, Allie's father was the one who had got away. He was explaining all this to Bill while he placed a call to the mounted police in that district. He recounted the details and said that he would be coming to help in the safe keeping of his dad. He had introduced himself and said that he would not be in uniform so that he could blend in.

He remembered the place where his dad was staying from a previous visit with Allie. There was no time for a delay, so he hurriedly packed his kit, saddled up his horse and made ready to leave. Fiona was in the street and saw that he seemed to be in a hurry. She waved and asked if there was anything wrong. Nathan said, "I'm going to be away maybe for a couple of days, I'd be grateful if you could look in on Allie for me. She'll be at school now and will wonder why I'm not home later." Fiona was pleased to be of assistance as Nathan had the look of concern on his face.

It would take most of the day to get to his father's place. He was not sure what to expect when he got there, maybe a false alarm or not even Allie's father. It seemed too much of a coincidence though as he recalled the conversation with the prison authority, how a recaptured prisoner said how Allie's father was coming into some decent money soon.

It was all quiet on arrival, so he alighted from his horse and tied him up around the back. There, strangely wasn't a light on anywhere in the house from what he could see so his curiosity became aroused. Surely, with somebody living there a light would have to be on. Just in case something was wrong, he wandered in quietly and immediately saw his father lying on the floor apparently injured. He raced to his dad's assistance and was relieved to see that he was conscious but in constant pain. Before he could say anything, the light was turned on and a gruff voice growled from behind, "You there, stand aside and put your hands in the air. We had a report that someone was coming for Mr Grant."

Nathan stood up complete with hands in the air. "Keep him covered while I put handcuffs on him, said one officer, "We were expecting you." Nathan, quite frustrated by now said, "While you do that, may I introduce myself." The two officers looked at each other. "I'm constable Nathan Grant from Hope Valley, this man is my father who looks to be quite injured. I'm the one who rang this morning to report how Mr Grant could be in danger. He needs medical attention right now if you please."

The officers apologised and said how they had been watching from across the road and had seen nothing. "Your man must have come in from the back way; do you know why he came here. Let us help get Mr Grant to the doctor. We don't think this happened very long ago because we thought we heard a sound like a plate landing on the floor or something. If he has fled, he won't have got far." Nathan asked his dad if anything had been said that might suggest where he would go next. Clearly, he had been unsuccessful in finding out where his ex-wife was located so he may seek an alternative.

Suddenly Nathan's heart went cold, Allie may be the next target. "I need you fellas to get my father to the doctor without me, I must make an urgent phone call at your headquarters." With great haste, he managed to explain the urgency in the office and use the phone to call Bill Avery. "Florence, this is Nathan, I'm out of town at the moment and I need to talk to Bill urgently. If you can't find him at the jail you might get him in the café. This is very important."

Of course, Bill wasn't at the jail so Florence said she would leave the line open and race over to the café where, in the end, he was cooking with his apron on. Nathan had waited anxiously and was extremely thankful to hear Bill's voice. After some explanation, Bill understood the probability that Allie's father may wind up at their home and use Allie to extort money from Nathan for a second time. His expertise would be needed now as Nathan would not be able to return to Hope Valley in time. He didn't want Allie to suspect anything and have her see the type of person that her father was.

Bill didn't have to look far because Fiona had seen Allie earlier and decided to keep her company while her uncle was away. "Would you like to come and see where I live, we could tryout a chocolate cake recipe and see how good we are at making it. I could show you my barber shop and we could pretend to cut your uncle's hair. Allie laughed and said, "That would be fun." They needed eggs, flour and butter to go with the cake mix from the mercantile and off they went.

It took time to find the recipe from the drawer. They hunted everywhere for it and eventually found it. While they were still looking and then mixing the ingredients, Allie asked where she lived before coming to Hope Valley. "I grew up in Union City," replied Fiona, "I didn't mind the big city life, it all depends on what you are doing and whether you have good friends. There were dances to go to when we got old enough which were lots of fun. Many of my friends hoped eventually to be married and have a family. Before I was going to commit to that, I wanted to learn things and do a worthwhile job and get paid. I did meet a guy though and eventually we got engaged." By this stage they were making quite a mess in the kitchen area. They had forgotten the sugar, so they decided to see the barber shop first then go back to the mercantile.

"What happened after that, asked Allie, "Well, he gradually got to the point where he was the one deciding everything. I was to just do what I was told, and things would be fine. We went out to dinner and he ordered for me without even asking," Allie was horrified, "He would tell me what to wear and complain if I wanted to see my friends and heaps more stuff that you wouldn't believe. Do you know he even asked my parents about me, all kinds of things that were none of his business? He was angry when I called off the engagement. What I am trying to say is that you don't have to endure attitude like that." "Were you sad," asked Allie who had been hanging on every word. "No, not at all, I felt free to be away from him." said Fiona.

"I felt sad when I got fired from my job at the telephone exchange, just because I didn't want to be transferred to another town. Dr Shepherd reminded me of how we are important and how the boss shouldn't have spoken to me like that." Allie was intrigued, "Is this when you got fired." "Yes," replied Fiona, "I let him know how rude he was, and he should be ashamed of himself. What say we make a pact between us, we let nobody treat us less than we deserve." She invited Allie to stay with her overnight for safekeeping.

Bill, in the meantime figured that Allie's father would go straight to Nathan and Allie's home and demand money at gunpoint. He decided to be there first, hide his horse and be inside with lights on to make it look like they were at home. The unwanted visitor arrived in the early hours of the morning and rightly deduced that the occupants should be there. He opened the unlocked front door, walked in and immediately felt the barrel of a pistol at the side of his head. "I'm happy to pull the trigger, it's your choice," said Bill forcefully. He tried to make a run for it in the dark, however the six mounties outside rapidly put a stop to that. He was handcuffed and leg ironed immediately then placed in the prison wagon for the journey back to prison. Judge and former Mountie Bill Avery, from experience, had come well prepared.

A very agitated Nathan showed up about half an hour later only suddenly to become a very relieved Nathan. Bill recounted the surprise on Allie's father's face when he was confronted with a gun in his ear. Nathan looked at Bill and said, "Bill, I owe you one." Bill put his hand on Nathan's shoulder and replied, "Nathan, we owe you about six for what you have done for us. You must understand, you and Allie are family and we always look after our own." He mentioned how Fiona had seen that there was a problem of sorts and that she was only too pleased to help out with Allie and keep her mind at ease.

Earlier on when school had finished for the day, Lucas picked up Elizabeth in his car from her home for the picnic. They chose the ideal spot by the water and laid out the blanket and picnic basket. It was the loveliest location with green grass and pretty flowers and water. They sat there and looked around thinking how relaxed it made them feel. After a day at school Elizabeth relished the chance for a restful moment with Lucas. Gustav had outdone himself again with the nice assortment of food. Lucas poured out some champagne for them and they toasted their future again. "Remember last time we were here, and it rained suddenly," said Elizabeth, "and we had to race for shelter in the car, but we got wet through anyway." Lucas asked, "can we repeat the last part that we missed out on." He leaned over and kissed the woman that he loved so dearly.

In the morning Elizabeth awoke happily reflecting on the lovely little date that she had with Lucas yesterday afternoon. She loved that warm contented feeling as she wandered in to see Little Jack. He was rolling from side to side and looking quite agitated. She felt his forehead which seemed to be quite hot and sweaty. Fearing that something was wrong, Elizabeth gathered him up and headed to the infirmary hoping that Faith would already be there.

Faith was in the process of opening up as she had been delayed by saying good morning to Nathan in the street and also having to look for the key which was somewhere in her bag. Nathan had said how Allie had stayed with Fiona last night as he had been out of town for a while. He was going to thank Fiona and see if Allie was ready for school.

Elizabeth hastily arrived in a worried state and took Little Jack into the infirmary to see Doctor Faith. "Faith, he has been like this since we got up this morning, I brought him straight here." Little Jack lay on the table moaning while Faith began her examination. "Did he eat anything different than his normal diet? "asked Faith as she saw mother shaking her head. "No, he was fine last night and went to bed just like normal." Faith continued on, "I don't think there is much wrong, but we can't be sure until we get his temperature down. That's not going to happen while he is so upset."

A worried mother sat with her son and tried in vain to comfort him. She looked out the window and saw Nathan talking to Fiona and Allie. Nathan had been saying how he could not thank her enough for looking after Allie while he was away. She could see that it had been important.

Elizabeth asked Faith if she would pop outside and see if Nathan would come into the infirmary. There was no change in the boy so far. All of them came in and Nathan saw how distressed Little Jack was. He grabbed another chair and sat down next to him, "Hello little man, we can't have you feeling sick like this, Doctor Faith will have you better in no time. I won't blame you if you screw your nose up at the medicine." Nathan had grabbed his hand as soon as the little boy saw him. "Remember that little dog in the street, he's probably worried about you being sick like this, we can't have that now can we." Little Jack raised a feeble little smile and slowly began to relax. His breathing became easier and soon he fell asleep. He was still holding Nathan's hand. Fiona and Elizabeth both had tears in their eyes after what they had just witnessed, Fiona, in particular, had put her arm around Nathan probably without even knowing it.

Faith said as they got up, "Elizabeth, you should let him sleep here for as long as he can so that I can monitor his progress, I'm sure he'll be just fine." Nathan had gone to sit outside for a while. He thanked Fiona again and while Allie was out of earshot said he would explain it all to her sometime. Elizabeth came out shortly and sat down next to Nathan. After an uneasy silence, she said "Nathan, I can't believe the bond that you and Jack have between you, it's amazing, you really put him at ease." After yesterday's events and now this happening today caused Nathan to be ill at ease while he was relaxing almost exhausted. "You know Elizabeth, if it wasn't for me, you would still have your husband who would have been in there with Little Jack instead of me. I wish so many times that I could change the past and swap places with him. I caused you so much aggravation over the last two years and I'm really sorry. I should have recognised and accepted your love for Lucas a lot earlier and got out of the way. I'm glad for Little Jack though, he's a wonderful little fella." Elizabeth was astounded that he could think like that. "Nathan, we wouldn't be the people we are if not for the Hope Valley community accepting us into their lives, Little Jack wouldn't be here if not for you and I'm the luckiest girl alive to have two great men interested in her. Rosemary is a great friend to me and so are you, never ever forget that." She whispered thanks to Faith and hurried off not wanting to be any later to school than necessary.

During recess time at school, Elizabeth noticed Allie sitting by herself just relaxing in the sunshine, "Allie, you're not playing with the others, is anything wrong? asked Elizabeth. "No, I'm fine actually Mrs Thornton, I was just thinking of Little Jack's face when he saw my uncle talk to him." She went on to say, "I was talking with Fiona last night and she told me all about the awful domineering man that she was engaged to, I can't imagine my uncle being like that." Elizabeth was quite surprised, "Wow, you must have had quite a conversation." Allie told her about her stay overnight with Fiona while her uncle was away for the day. "She was so nice to me and told me heaps of stuff, I like her." Elizabeth was curious but now recess time was over and now back to class for everyone.

It was an early dismissal for the children today as Elizabeth was anxious to get to the infirmary to see if Little Jack was okay. When she wandered in, she saw him playing with a little toy train that Faith always kept for the little children. Faith said with a smile, "I've got dolls for the girls if they aren't interested in the train, look at him, he's fine. You wouldn't have known that he was ill this morning."

Mother and son now headed off to the saloon to see Lucas hopefully hard at work. He came out from behind the bar and was so pleased to see them. "I have some news," he said. "My mother is going to be in Union City for the weekend with another writer. She has invited us for a visit and a dinner engagement. It would be a good opportunity to discuss your book. We could leave early Saturday morning and have you back on Sunday evening." Elizabeth remembered the trip they had last time for the Virginia Woolf book reading, now they would be discussing her own production. She had such a good time then, so she agreed gladly. "I'll see if Lee and Rosemary can have Little Jack again." She was so excited she forgot to mention that Little Jack had some sort of an ailment in the morning. She would also leave out the part that Nathan had played.

They set out early as planned on Saturday and arrived at the same little setting where they had their first picnic. Elizabeth reflected on last time and how she had insisted that the trip was not to be considered a date but just two people with a common interest going to a book reading. She smiled to herself and thought how far they had come in their relationship. Lucas said, "this is the same as before, I'm sure that you must be thinking of Little Jack."

They arrived in Union City at the same hotel as the last visit. Lucas's mother had said that she would already be there and that they could get together after settling in. At the desk, Lucas got in first and introduced himself as Lucas Bouchard and his escort was Mrs Thornton to avoid the embarrassing mistake of last time. "My mother Mrs Helen Bouchard is also staying here. She might join us for dinner later, maybe in an hour or so."

A very elegant Elizabeth joined Lucas to head to the dining room, hopefully to the same table as before. He couldn't help remembering how she took his breath away previously when she appeared in the lobby. His mother had been waiting there for a short time and greeted them with a smile. "I'm so pleased you could come," said Helen, "it has been too long. Elizabeth, you look absolutely radiant." They sat down, the waiter got the same champagne as before, at Lucas' request. Helen toasted the two of them and the successful completion of the book. "You should be very proud of yourself," she said looking at Elizabeth, "your work is of a high quality, it provides a wonderful example of life for a woman out of the big city environment."

After dinner, they went into the lounge for coffee and mints. Helen outlined the publishing process which was going to take time meaning that the final product would probably not be finalised until into the next year. "I'm sure you won't like the waiting around for all this to run its course, however, it will, I promise, be worth the wait." She could see the excitement in Elizabeth as it was a realisation for her that her book was really going to become a reality. "Now Elizabeth, when this book comes out and copies of it go on sale all around the country, you are going to be confronted with many people wanting to ask many questions. It will be advisable to be ready for all this and be well rehearsed. How do you fancy being the centre of attention?" she asked with a grin.

"Oh, my goodness, I need to take a breath here," gasped Elizabeth, "I never imagined anything like this." Lucas piped in and said, "Remember Virginia Woolf and how she dealt with all this at her book reading." Helen added "You only have to answer one question at a time and not get flustered." She started to suggest what kind of questions that could come her way. "What is life like where you live, what are the people like, are any of the book characters real. Tell us about your son and the Mountie."

Lucas went to settle the account at the desk giving his mother an opportunity to talk to Elizabeth alone. "Last time we were together you were faced with the advances of two suiters, it appears that all is resolved now and I trust you are going to be very happy. It looks like you are making Lucas a very happy man. I hope it will be everything you ask for."

As they said goodnight, Helen said, "This has been lovely tonight, I hope that I will see much more of you in the coming months, have a safe trip back to Hope Valley."

Elizabeth could hardly contain her excitement on the trip home. The thought of becoming a celebrity of sorts was very overpowering. Lucas looked at her with admiration, "Can you believe all this, you have written your dreams on paper and it is going to be on display for all the world. I knew right from the beginning that you were capable of this task, you are going to deserve every accolade." She looked over at Lucas and thought, "He was the inspiration for me when I had doubts whether I could do such a thing. He can take a lot of credit when my book comes out."

Lucas stopped the car at their picnic spot and asked Elizabeth if she would hop out of the car with him for a moment. She looked around and wondered what was going on. All of a sudden, complete with ring in hand, he was down on one knee, "Elizabeth, would you do me the honour of becoming my wife, I know this is sudden but I can't think of a better occasion than this to ask you for your hand." A hundred thoughts ran through her mind; indeed, it was so sudden, however, she replied, "Yes Lucas, with all my heart, I would love to be your wife." A kiss to seal the deal, the engagement ring placed on her finger, they set off to return to Hope Valley.

Lucas dropped his new fiancé off at her home and went on his way to the saloon. She raced in to see Little Jack and her neighbours and flash her new engagement ring to them. "Oh, Rosemary, we had such a wonderful time with his mother at Union City and then on the way back, out of the blue, he proposed to me. It all seems so right." Rosemary thought very deeply for a moment, "Now let's see," then she laughed and squealed, "We are so pleased for you, we haven't seen you as happy as this for ages. Wow, it doesn't seem that long ago you caught that bouquet from Clara." Elizabeth thanked them again and returned home with Little Jack. She could hardly sleep a wink that night.

During the day, Nathan had gone to see Fiona who was cleaning up at the barber shop. She welcomed him in and was pleased to have someone to chat with, "I knew something was wrong and you had to go and fix it." He explained who Allie's father was and how he was an escapee from prison. Threatening Allie's grandfather was supposed to reveal the whereabouts of her mother where he could extort money. When that was unsuccessful, he turned his attention to Allie but finished up getting caught by Bill and some mounties. He added how Allie knows nothing about all this. Fiona was flabbergasted, "My goodness, all this happened right in our midst, I'm so glad that everything turned out okay, Allie was great fun to be with, even if our cake didn't end up eatable." Nathan grinned, "All I've heard lately is Fiona said this or Fiona said that, you must have really chewed her ear off. I know she's still only fourteen but she's heading for adulthood so quickly. I'm really grateful that she can have someone like you to talk to, I think she could confide in you when she needs to." Fiona looked Nathan squarely in the eye, "I think she is so lucky to have you as her adopted father. If she has you to look up to, she can't go far wrong. We were all proud of how you so bravely rescued Elizabeth's little boy. But for you, things could have been very different." She added, "I feel very privileged that you could take me into your confidence." He was very surprised when she gave him a kiss on the cheek.

It didn't take long for the latest news of the engagement to get around the town. Elizabeth and Little jack were down the street early next morning before school. She was looking first to see Bill before news reached him on the grapevine. It would be nice to have his blessing for her future and any advice that he might provide. It may be difficult for him bringing back memories of Jack and how he is the Godfather to his son.

Bill was in the café and lit up straight away when he saw Elizabeth walk in with the little boy. "I heard a rumour this morning," he said with a smirk, Clara rushed in, "Is it true what we heard?" They saw the ring on her finger and offered their congratulations. "This is big step for you to take with what you have gone through over the past years, many ups and downs, you know that we are all here when you need us. I am really happy for you Elizabeth." said Bill. Clara asked, "Is it too early to think of an engagement party?" Elizabeth was now in a hurry for school, "Not even thinking about it, this has only just happened." was her reply.

The children at school were very happy for their teacher Mrs Thornton until one of them asked, "Does that mean you'll be leaving us and not being our teacher anymore?" Elizabeth assured them all that she would not be going anywhere. She could see that Allie was in two minds but offered her happiness and good wishes and hoped that she and Mr Bouchard would be very happy. Elizabeth was still interested in her overnight stay with Fiona, but that conversation would have to wait for another time.

Nathan was in the jailhouse and had just made a call to see how his father was recovering. He was relieved to hear that a couple of bruised ribs and cuts to his face were all the damage and a full recovery was expected. He thought maybe to invite him to stay with him at Hope Valley, but Allie would suspect something and be concerned. It was also a great relief to know that Allie's father would be spending a much longer sentence in prison and hopefully never ever be seen again.

Bill entered the office shortly after and was glad to hear that Archie Grant was expected to recover fully after a while. He broke the news of Elizabeth's engagement and wondered what sort of a reaction he would get. "You know Bill, a couple of months ago I would have been very upset at hearing this. I knew that it was inevitable, but it was going to be hard for me to accept. Time moves on though and Elizabeth and I have been able to come to some sort of acceptance, I really wish the best for both of them. We still know so little about him, but he does make her happy and that is the most important thing.

Elizabeth, at home after school was enjoying the moment and contemplating the future for them all. She did feel that she had to take stock and be aware that she still had a fight to deal with as far as the school was concerned. There was still the issue of being so called unqualified to teach a blind student in the class. It was such a lovely weekend though and she could not hide her excitement of her engagement and the prospect of her new book.

"When can we have the engagement party?" asked Rosemary as she walked in as usual without knocking on the door, "we can start to decorate the saloon again, that will be fun." Elizabeth asked, "I wonder if Nathan has heard yet, I don't think he even knew that we were away for the weekend, so I haven't seen him at all since Little Jack's illness at the infirmary. Life does seem a little easier between us these days. Did you know that Allie stayed overnight at Fiona's place the other night?" That was a surprise also to Rosemary hoping that everything was okay.

Rosemary asked Elizabeth if she knew anything about some factory rumour that was going around. "Nobody seems to know what it's about or even what it's going to be for." I'm planning to ask around to see what it is all about, even write something in our little newspaper." She was planning to do her own little investigation. Mr Landis had implied more than once that many more children would require schooling here suggesting that families and workers from a proposed factory would become a reality. Mr Walden may also be someone to talk to, at least that could be a good start. She may see the Pinkertons driving past in the car in the street who may provide some information.

Just to prove to himself that he bore no ill will, Nathan, through the day, had figured that it was time to call in to the saloon, somewhere he had not frequented for a long time. Civilian clothes would be the order of the day as the patrons sometimes are apprehensive in police presence. Lucas was surprised to see him and was rather taken aback. They sat down with a drink, "I've come to offer my congratulations Lucas, I mean it when I say that I hope you will be very happy together." Lucas thanked him but with a serious look said," I have found it all very difficult over the last few months since Elizabeth and I got together. You came to see me that evening after Elizabeth had spoken to you and suggested, how did you say, to stick around. I was in fact going to sell the establishment and leave the next day. That's the noblest thing that I have ever seen anyone do, you must have been absolutely heartbroken. I have you to thank for all this turning out like it has." He added, "I can't imagine me offering the same consideration if Elizabeth had picked you, I will always be in your debt." He went on to say, "I was so sad for Elizabeth when you went off to Fort Clay. She was in the depths of despair and even when you returned safely, she still found it so difficult to make it right with you." He concluded with, "That was wonderful how you saved Little Jack from that dog. I told Elizabeth that it should have been me who got that injury that you received, I hope it's better."

There were two men at a table who Nathan had not seen before, rather boisterous and demanding when it came to be getting their next drinks. Lucas advised, "They have been in here a couple of times recently, who they work for and where they are from is a mystery to me. If they behave reasonably and their money is good, then I can live with it." A genuine handshake, a bid goodnight and Nathan made his exit, He planned to keep an eye on the two men in the corner from now on.

Over the next few weeks, life settled down for everyone. Rosemary would be seen conducting her investigation and not really getting anywhere. The people who she thought may know something about a factory, like Mr Walden and that Pinkerton chap weren't being of any help at all. The engagement party went ahead with everybody helping out with food and decorations. The two men from before were back in the saloon as usual wondering what all the ruckus was about. They were politely told of the private engagement party and were asked to leave. They did so under sufferance while taking bottles with them. Still nobody knew who they were. Nathan and Allie dropped in on the party for a while but didn't stay long. It was just long enough for Nathan to be re acquainted with the two unwanted strangers. He purposely stayed out of the way while they were invited to leave the premises. Bill also undertook to keep an ever-watchful eye on those two undesirables.

Lucas' car broke down on a day that he and Elizabeth planned a little drive out of town. Rather than letting that deter them, they set about saddling the horses and going for a ride in that fashion. They enjoyed themselves and vowed to ride together more often. The news on the car was not good after an inspection of sorts by Mr Canfield. He said, "Even if I knew what was wrong, it doesn't mean that I could fix it, the sound of the engine hardly turning over appeared to suggest major and expensive repairs." They would have to get someone qualified from the city and that would be very costly.

Allie would regularly call in after school to see Fiona at the barber shop and be amazed how deft she was at the hairdressing trade. "You can learn to do anything you put your mind to, all you need to do is have the confidence to listen and observe." She would say. Allie was developing quite a friendship with this lady. "We must have another go at that cake again, surely it will be better next time. "Maybe we should do something drastic and read the directions." she laughed. Fiona looked at her and said, "I thought that was your job."

Nathan's father by now had made a full recovery and was able to return home from the hospital. He called during his rounds to let Fiona know and offer his thanks once again. "He then found himself a little out of his depth, "Would you like to have dinner at the café, with me and Allie?" She was very thoughtful and replied, "You'll have to get dressed up for an occasion like this," then she laughed and added, "That would be very nice Nathan." He looked at her with relief and said, "I'm not sure I can cope with the two of you together, it will take some getting used to." He loved the gentle, happy smile on her face.

Allie arrived home from school to the news that they were going to the café for dinner, with Fiona. A smile came on her face followed by a "aha." "We are just having dinner," he said," "I knew you liked her, I'm going to enjoy this." She went off to change. Soon all three were heading to the café on such a wonderful mild afternoon. Bill and Clara looked at each other and tried to hide their astonishment at seeing the three of them coming to their establishment like as in a date. Fiona and Allie grinned at each other as they could see that Nathan was like a fish out of water. They both planned to embarrass him at every opportunity from now on. "Can we see the menu sir," Fiona enquired, "I must tell you; we are not to be trifled with; we are very fussy people who expect nothing less than the best of service." Bill and Clara both laughed and replied, "Well, you shall have it." Nathan shook his head and they all sat down for dinner.

Fiona, if they didn't know it before, was a very vibrant woman. She asked Allie all about fishing and was she any good at it and whether she could make her own clothes etc. "If you teach me how to catch a fish, I will show you some of my limited knowledge of sowing. I will have Clara to help me, she's an expert." Nathan sat there in complete awe of the two of them so relaxed and enjoying the get-together, "What are you looking at," glared Fiona, "eat your dinner before it gets cold." Nathan threw his arms in the air, "it's a salad." He was so pleased that they could enjoy each other's company like this. Fiona asked after a while, "Do you see that Mr Walden around from time to time, I found him very cocky and quite abrupt. He waltzed into my shop for a haircut and then said he was going to buy it and I could stay on and work for him," Allie asked, "Did that upset you?" Fiona sneered and said, I think it upset him more because I told him to leave my shop immediately, he went without a haircut."

Somebody else had seen the enjoyment that the three of them were having in the cafe. Elizabeth had stopped on her way to the mercantile and couldn't help peering through the window when she heard all the noise. This was something she had never seen before, a man who had declared his love for her in the past, who wanted to share his life with her, was now apparently seeing another woman. She was rather set off balance for a while as she tried to gather her thoughts. "Of course, I'm very happy for Nathan and I wish him all the best but, oh my goodness, I think I feel a little bit of jealousy at seeing this." Still peering through the window, she suddenly felt a little sad as she remembered how this was the dinner that she had been invited to many months ago. She felt shame as it all came back to her how she was reluctant to go and ended up throwing him and Allie off at the sight of Lucas. Things were much more complicated back then, but she couldn't help thinking how disappointed Nathan must have felt. "If he asked me again, I would jump at the chance to have dinner with him. I said I would make it all up to him and I'm going to do so, I'm going to be the best friend that he has ever had." She continued on with a sad but determined look to the mercantile.

Rosemary was getting rather peeved at the limited information about the supposed factory that she was getting, surely Mr Walden and the Pinkertons for that matter, were here in Hope Valley for a reason. She decided that a carefully drafted story could be written and put into the newspaper to try to bring everybody's attention to the possibility of a new factory being built in the Hope Valley district, surely people would want to know about that. She would mention that there could be all kinds of problems stemming from such an establishment whatever it was for, maybe run off into the water supply or even a fire hazard etc.

Lee read the text for her prior to printing, "Don't you think this could stir up trouble for us all. Whoever is in charge of this project may not want us to know anything about what is going on, they haven't been forthcoming so far." Rosemary was quite determined, "This will certainly grab their attention won't it."

The paper was due out in a couple of days with this major story at the front where it could not be missed. People would rightly be concerned with a manufacturing plant or even a refinery of some sort appearing right on their doorstep. Hope Valley should progress and prosper in accordance with the wishes of the residents of the town and district according to the editor.

A stir was exactly the result after the distribution of the paper. Nobody seemed to know anything about any factory but said to their friends that they would expect some consultation beforehand. Rosemary was sure that there would be someone who would have read this by now who would be very annoyed. Even if she didn't know any real details, she felt that the story would have made an impression.

She had to call into the saloon at some stage to collect some items that she had left there after the engagement party. It was long overdue, and she felt that Lucas would be happy to finally have all the junk finally out of his hair after all this time. While in there gathering up all the stuff into bags, she couldn't help hearing the voices of the two men in the corner. They had the newspaper in hand and seemed quite annoyed. She remembered them from the engagement party previously. They looked like they had been drinking for some time, "People who write stuff like this should mind their own business, they could find themselves in a mess of trouble." She looked at Lucas who said for her to take no notice, they were just spouting off and would sleep it off eventually. Rosemary thought it looked a bit more serious than that and decided to talk to Bill.

Bill agreed with Rosemary that it seemed more than just a harmless threat and said that he should now do some of his own investigation. He needed to find out if these two scoundrels actually worked for someone who may have a keen interest in the factory. He could see that the article in the paper may get in the way of someone's plans for the factory. "I don't mean to alarm you, but I don't want you out alone at any stage, it will be better if they don't know that you are the instigator of the article. You just never know."

The Pinkertons would regularly drive through the town, guns in hand looking like they owned the place. It took a couple of days but eventually they were confronted by Bill who actually had to stand in front of the moving vehicle to get them to stop, "I'd like a word if you don't mind," he said. They could see that it mattered little whether they minded or not, Bill had something to say. He was well aware of who Julius Spurlock was and his association with the Pinkertons. He described the two rude ornery men from the saloon and the veiled threat that they had made. He told Spurlock that he could expect trouble if these men were here on their behalf. "We are a protection agency not a rabble, we are protecting the interest of the owner of a parcel of land in the district. What is planned for all this is unknown to us, we just do our job. You have my word that your two men are nothing to do with us." He said how he had read the newspaper article and added that he could not provide any information.

Now this Wyman Walden was a different kettle of fish, he never seemed to admit anything or even deny anything. Bill thought that he had an overabundance of confidence that would go against him in the long run. His cocky attitude in trying to buy the barber shop for no apparent reason did not win him any friends. He was a hard man to corner but after a conversation in the jailhouse again with Bill losing his patience, Walden actually said that he had no knowledge of the two men from the saloon.

It was now time to pay the two men a visit and find out why they had objected so strongly to the newspaper article. After all, it was really none of their business what went on at Hope Valley. Bill wandered into the saloon and seemed surprised that it was nearly empty, Lucas had said previously that business was slow, but this was not how it used to be. It had been a vibrant meeting place and watering hole over the years.

The two men in the corner had now turned into three, casually consuming beer seemingly to pass the time. Bill asked them who they were and what brought them to Hope Valley. "I haven't seen you folks around before and I'm just trying to keep tabs on everyone." The new addition to the group got rather aggressive and suggested that Bill should mind his own business. "I've just come in and I'm enjoying a drink with my newfound friends. We are all not hurting anyone and keeping to ourselves, like what you should be doing." Undeterred, Bill wanted to know about the comment made about the story in the newspaper, "l heard that you had something to say about the factory story." The new chap replied, "If someone wants to build a factory here what of it, everybody should leave well alone, isn't that right fellas, anyhow, what's it to you?" Bill introduced himself as the local judge which gave him the right to question anything and anybody if he saw the need. He gave them fair warning and left them all to it.

The two men invited the new addition to their cabin which was out of town. The owner was not around so they had just decided to move in for a while. They said how they had a boss who had not appreciated the newspaper story and wanted a retraction printed in the next issue saying that it was all a misunderstanding. He had left it to them to figure out how this could be achieved.

A few days went by in Hope Valley with people going about their business like normal. They would see the three strangers ride in and out of town. When not in the saloon, they were seen at the mercantile getting the few supplies that they needed. Beans, bread and coffee seem to be as much as they required. Ned commented politely how they never had many strangers in town. "No law against it is there," was the gruff reply, "just tell us how much for this stuff."

One afternoon, as school was ending, Fiona showed up all smiles to collect Allie, "I think it's time to have another shot at that cake don't you reckon." She saw Elizabeth, "I'll make sure she gets her homework done, I'm sure that she will have some to do." She grinned, "Allie forgot the sugar last time and the cake was a disaster." Allie was horrified and denied everything. Elizabeth now saw the excellent bond that had developed between the two of them. She couldn't help thinking though, there must have been something important causing Allie to stay overnight at Fiona's place. She could see the happiness in the air and that would have to do for now.

She was now planning to head to the saloon, after leaving Little Jack with Rosemary for a while, to see Lucas. It had been a busy day with all the demands of all the school children and a nice visit with some afternoon tea would be just what the doctor ordered. On the way down the street she saw and waved to Faith who had been getting some fresh air outside the infirmary. They chatted away for a short time about Little Jack and even the newspaper article that Rosemary had written, "It seems to have caused quite a commotion around the place," remarked Elizabeth. They noticed Nathan down the street, Faith said, "look at him sitting up there on that horse, like a knight in shining armour, who does he think he is, you'd think he owned the place or something." They laughed at each other and Faith added, "thank heaven he is still here, I thought there was a real chance we would lose him."

Elizabeth strolled into the saloon and saw Lucas busy behind the bar, they were pleased to see each other as he commented how she always lit the place up with her presence. Gustav had made some cookies of his own recipe which went just nicely with some coffee. He said that there were a few items that he needed from the mercantile and excused himself. Elizabeth noticed how empty the place looked, "It will get busier as the evening comes along." said Lucas. The three men were again in the corner and couldn't help noticing Elizabeth, "Well now that's nice to have a fine looking lady to come and see us on a nice day like this, " Lucas responded introducing his fiancé as a harmless gesture. "Nice to meet you ma'am, now both of you stay calm and raise your hands." Two of the men had guns drawn, "Tie him up to the chair around the corner and gag him, we don't want him yelling out after we've gone." Then they turned their attention to Elizabeth who was absolutely petrified at having guns pointed at her. She recalled how this had happened before and that her first thought was for her son. Now she had Lucas to think about as well. "Tie her hands and blindfold her," one of them ordered," see if there is any money in the register." They were about to leave when one of them said, "Now Mister, listen good, if you all want her to remain safe you had better get the newspaper editor to print a retraction very quickly."

They forced Elizabeth onto another horse that was there and quickly rode out of town. They were well in the distance when Gustav observed the four riders. He never noticed that one of them was Elizabeth. As he wandered back to the saloon, he hoped that she was enjoying his cookies, he took great pride in his trade. He didn't want to bother them, so he went straight to the kitchen to prepare for the evening customers.

After about half an hour, one man who had been there for a while shouted out, "can anyone get a drink in here." Thinking that this was a rather unusual comment, Gustav poked his head around the corner to hear the man ask, "where's the boss man?" He could see at the bar that the register was open and unattended which was most unusual. He knocked on the door of the office and could hear a muffle groan. He opened the door and immediately saw Lucas tied up and very agitated. After being untied, Lucas removed the gag and roared, "Elizabeth has been abducted."

He raced outside and looked around, but the men and their prisoner were long gone. There was no time to waste so both men hastily found their way to the jailhouse. Nathan could see from the shortness of breath that a major problem had arose, "Gustav, can you go to the café and get Bill Avery." asked Nathan after having listened to a quick recollection of events. Haste was required but cool heads as well. "They could be anywhere by now." He looked at Lucas," There's no one to blame here. Those men must have planned this for some time."

Gustav remembered how he saw four riders heading in the distance way out of town, one of them could have been a woman. "Show me which way," asked Bill, "this could be a big help." He was amazed how these three men would think that they could get away with something like this. The ridiculous demand for a newspaper retraction would have to wait, Elizabeth's safety was paramount.

Bill and Nathan were soon ready to roll. They did not have much of a plan so they would have to take it as it came. Lucas pleaded with them to be allowed to join them, but permission was denied. They did not need a possible hot head getting injured in their company as they didn't know what they would be riding into.

They knew that they would be about one hour behind, so they set off and were soon at the spot where Gustav had seen the riders. The sun was low in the sky by now, probably about an hour or so of daylight remaining in the day. Continuing on, down the road Nathan stopped when he had spied a bottle on the side of the road. Bill said how he remembered the men leaving the engagement party with some bottles in hand. Surely, they wouldn't be that careless as to leave clues which would mark the way for followers to see. Nevertheless, it looked like it was the same type of bottle, so it appeared that they were on the right track.

They were cautious as it all seemed too convenient to have a clue right when they needed it. Bill considered that these men must have been hiding out in some cabin somewhere and they may be back there by now and packing up ready to leave. They knew most of the homesteads around the district and that one of them was temporarily vacated while the family was away. They put two and two together and knew exactly where to head.

They arrived with the cabin in sight and saw three horses tied up out the front. That was a concern as there were four travellers originally, they wondered why. The twilight made it easier to approach without being discovered. Guns drawn, they kicked in the door and burst in to find, in their astonishment, Elizabeth tied up and blindfolded and two men tied up together and blindfolded in the corner unable to move. Totally dumbfounded, they removed the gag and untied Elizabeth completely relieved that she was unharmed. She said that she was brought inside and put in the corner. She heard a scuffle and shortly after, one man's voice told her, "You are quite safe Mrs Thornton, Constable Grant will be along soon, there is a note on the table for him." She said that she heard a horse riding away after the door shut. Nathan picked up the note which read, "We've been tracking these two across the territory for weeks, we don't know who they work for, but we are sure that something is afoot. The abduction of Mrs Thornton caught me by surprise. They have now committed the crimes of theft and kidnapping which should see them put away for a long time. Mrs Thornton was never in any danger, check their weapons, my apologies to the judge and others for my rudeness." Signed Constable Simon Morgan. P.S. "Thanks Nathan for stepping in for me at Fort Clay, much appreciated, I won't forget it."

Nathan had to sit down by now, quite overcome, "Bill, after you've checked their weapons, you should read this." Their guns were full of blanks, so they were able to convince a still frightened Elizabeth that she had apparently never been in any danger at all. "Can you believe it?" said Nathan, "One of those rude, arrogant men actually was a Mountie. Okay Elizabeth, let's get you home, Lucas must be going out of his mind by now."

On the way back home, Elizabeth loosened up a little and remembered how curious she was about Allie's overnight stay with Fiona. Nathan filled her in with the whole story and how Fiona came into the picture. "Now her and Allie have been inseparable since. I don't know what I would have done without her."

Lucas was overjoyed at seeing the return of Elizabeth coming in to view on horseback, he couldn't remember any time he was more relieved and thankful. She jumped down from the horse and flung herself into his arms. He could hardly find any words, "Are you okay, not hurt, you must have been frightened out of your wits, you are a sight for sore eyes." They turned to thank Nathan, but he had gone with Bill to lock up the two prisoners.

Nathan returned home after a satisfying and successful afternoon's work and wandered inside, he looked around, the kitchen table was an absolute mess, there was flour everywhere. He was surprised to see Fiona who greeted him, "Hello Nathan, never mind all this, there is a cake in the oven." Nathan looked around helplessly, "I think there's some of the cake that didn't make it into the oven." Allie looked like she was having a lot of fun with this, "You wait Uncle Nathan, this cake is going to be so good." As it turned out, this second effort was actually passable and not much left at the finish.

After tidying up Nathan got to walk Fiona home in the dark. She remarked along the way, "You look like the cat who caught the canary, I can see you had some sort of an adventure this afternoon." He could see that she was interested so he opened up, "You know that factory article in the paper this week, well it seems like it hit a nerve somewhere." She was astounded to hear of Elizabeth's abduction. "What you don't know is that one of the three men was actually a Mountie. When we got there, he had the job done for us already and was gone." He added how wonderful it was to see her and Allie enjoying life with each other. Outside her house she turned to him and said, "I'm always going to be there for you as well Nathan, you are about the nicest man I've ever met." She kissed him on the cheek and disappeared inside.

Lucas had also walked Elizabeth home and heard the torrid tale of the afternoon. He was astounded to hear how one of those rude men was not only a Mountie but the one who Nathan had replaced at Fort Clay. "I'm not ever going to let you out of my sight again." He said. "Thoughts ran around in my head that no one should have to endure." He saw Elizabeth to the door and said that he would call on her tomorrow after school. Today's event reinforced his desire to start talking about wedding plans.

Elizabeth was back at school the next day, dealing with the day to day school children issues which paled into insignificance compared to the danger and harrowing experience of yesterday. She thought of Bill and Nathan coming to her rescue and how proud she felt for them. She thought of poor Lucas and the tension he would have been under not knowing what was happening. The look on his face would remain with her forever. They would spend more time together than ever from now on. The car was still out of action so a borrowed cart was used to go on a picnic some days. They rode together and would have supper together in the saloon often with some specialities from Gustav.

After a couple of weeks on a restful afternoon picnic, Lucas posed the question of what kind of wedding would she fancy. She nearly spilt her drink in amazement, "Wow, my goodness, that came out of the blue." Lucas replied, "Not at all, I've had this on my mind for quite a while, you know, engaged people often get married eventually, I've actually seen it happen." She smiled and said, "Oh really, who would have thought." Lucas added very forcefully, "Little Jack will look superb in a suit, I can't have him steal the show and upstage me, we just can't have that." They both laughed and toasted each other. "How do you like the sound of Mrs Bouchard?"

Later, in the evening, Elizabeth had a quiet moment to herself where she was able to reflect on her life. She had many years of being Miss Thatcher, then life at Hope Valley and meeting the Mountie resulted in her becoming Mrs Thornton. She reflected on a year ago when she agonised over finally taking her ring off her finger. Now she contemplated the thought of soon becoming Mrs Bouchard. She wondered how the school children would react to her new name. Some of the older ones would remember Mountie Jack even if he seemed to be a distant memory. "I'm sure the towns folk will take ages to accept the new name, I have been Mrs Thornton for such a long time. The name of the school will never change, I will see to that." She thought. She hoped Jack would be happy for her as she recalled his heartbreaking letter telling her to eventually open her heart again when she could.

It took a little while for her to come around but eventually they were able to settle on a date in about six weeks' time. Helen Bouchard was ecstatic at the news of a date finally being set and promised to be there. Elizabeth's parents were overseas in Europe at the time and probably would not be able to return in time which was sad. Rosemary and Clara would help out gladly with a new dress which would please Elizabeth greatly. Decorations for the church and the saloon would come out again with all hands-on deck for the jobs.

One day Elizabeth was down the street to the surprise of seeing Gustav, complete with suitcase, in the process of catching the stage and departing. He seemed rather sad at seeing Elizabeth and having to say goodbye. "Mr Bouchard had to let me go, times are hard in the saloon business at the moment," he said. She saw Lucas out the front and asked, "I can't believe that he's going, will he be okay?" A despondent Lucas replied, "I had no choice, I expect business to pick up eventually, but I just couldn't afford to keep him on at the present. I have given him excellent references, deservedly so, which will see him in good stead. I will just have to manage without him." Elizabeth took his hand in hers, "We will manage together Lucas."

Three weeks later, with wedding plans progressing along quite nicely, Wyman Walden strolled into the saloon one morning to discuss business with Lucas or more so, to place an ultimatum before him. "I was disappointed when our deal did not get finalised last year, it was a good offer which you decided in the end not to accept. Your establishment is a lot less viable these days than back then, so here is what I am planning. I will take it from you at a considerably reduced price, still a reasonable one under the current circumstances. The alternative is financial ruin for you. I don't know who is arranging it, but I believe that a factory, close in this district, will be erected in the near future. I am prepared to build a saloon in that location to cater for all the workers if I have to. If you tell anyone about this, I will withdraw my offer, you have one week to make a decision."

Lucas sat quietly after Walden had gone. He now had to face the fact that he was going to be out of the saloon business in a very short time, so he had to take action quickly and see if there were any opportunities available elsewhere at his disposal. It was fortunate for Lucas that he knew many people in the hospitality field similar to himself, so a phone call to some of these may provide an opening somewhere. One such opportunity did arise from a location in Union City; however, he would need to present himself for an interview with the general manager at short notice. Time was of the essence, so he swung into action and saddled up and rode off before noon. There was no time to discuss this with Elizabeth, she was at school anyway.

Elizabeth and Little Jack had wandered down the street after school only to be confronted with a note on the locked front door of the saloon which said, "back in two days." She asked both Bill and Nathan if they had seen Lucas." I haven't seen him at all today, however, I did see Wyman Walden go into the saloon early in the morning." said Bill.

Lucas was eventually on his way back after staying an extra night, quite satisfied with this outcome. He had realised from the outset that, if he was to lose the saloon business, he would need to have an alternative form of income very quickly. Then, with the sale of the saloon, he would be able to have the repairs carried out and paid for on the car. "Yes, this could work out quite well for Elizabeth and me, Walden may have done us a good turn without even knowing it, "he thought. "I could have spent months trying to find a buyer for the saloon if business remained slow." All this, he considered, was the easy part, he wasn't looking forward to the other unenviable task of putting it all to Elizabeth and convincing her of having to move to Union City straight after they were married.

He arrived back at Hope Valley at around dusk and rode immediately to Elizabeth's house, she probably would be worried about his whereabouts. "I've been waiting by the saloon for you for ages, where in the world have you been, is anything wrong?" He went inside, "Elizabeth, I have quite a story to tell you, I think it might be a good idea for you to sit down." He began to explain how it all started with Wyman Walden coming to see him that morning with his ultimatum. "In the end I had no choice, so I sought out some of my contacts and eventually found some success, I have been able to secure an assistant manager's position, quite lucrative at the hotel where we stayed in Union City."

Elizabeth could see that Lucas had been placed in a difficult position that he had to deal with in great haste, "my goodness, we have a wedding coming up and now we have all this to sort out." She felt so sorry for him but was amazed how he seemed to be handling everything. "If Walden builds his saloon next to the factory, it would ruin our business completely, we can't take that chance. "he lamented. "We have the chance of a new life together in Union City, you wouldn't have to, but you would easily be able to get a teaching job there if you wanted to. Your book will be published eventually, and you can devote time to writing your next edition. Little Jack will be able to go to a prestigious school in a school uniform. Elizabeth, we can make this work for us."

This was now becoming a huge shock for Elizabeth as now it wasn't just a move to Union City; she would actually be leaving her life here. To make matters worse, this was to happen very soon. She was absolutely horrified to have to face this prospect, "Lucas, I am going to have to absorb all this, we can talk again tomorrow, I need to think about all this." Her head was going around in circles as they said goodnight.

This was not the first time she sat in the chair quietly alone at night having to ponder over heart wrenching situations over the years. There were the months of Jack being away, the tug of war with Lucas and Nathan, the issue with the school. Now, this was different, she was now having to look inside herself and see if she could muster up the courage to leave her life in Hope Valley for the man she loved. She was definitely going to lose sleep over all this tonight.

School next day was very difficult for her. On many occasions the children noticed her just staring out the window for no apparent reason. She couldn't say anything to anyone as she was trying to find a way to come to grips with this upheaval and what was to lay ahead for her. What was she to do, call the engagement and wedding off, after all this time cementing their blossoming relationship and love affair with each other? She imagined her new life in the city with Lucas and Little Jack. She had grown up in the big city and would know what to expect. "Are we still going to call you Mrs Thornton?" asked Opal. Elizabeth smiled at her and said, "Let's deal with that when the time comes."

Rosemary marched into Elizabeth's place after school and enquired, "Can Clara and I borrow you for a while down the street for a fitting of your dress? I just know you're going to love it; Lee can look after Little Jack for us, it shouldn't take long." She was out the door and gone before she could notice Elizabeth's sullen expression. The dress fitting didn't seem to cheer her up and the others noticed how she wasn't contributing to their usual riveting conversation, "This is not just pre wedding jitters is it Elizabeth." said Rosemary, "I know you too well." Elizabeth suddenly burst into tears to the amazement of Clara and Rosemary. "It looks like we will be leaving Hope Valley." she cried.

They sat down with her while she tried to explain as best as she could why this was going to happen and so soon. They were astounded to think that they were going to lose their schoolteacher and one of the best friends that they could ever have. What was more worrying was that there was nothing that they could say or do that was going to help matters. It was a little helpful in that she had someone to talk to about all this. The dress fitting would have to wait.

She sought solace in Lucas at the saloon, he had started to sort out and package up his office books and documents. It looked like the car was going to be repaired and ready on time. He suggested that they head off straight after the wedding and not wait for a reception, that way they could begin their new life straight away. She had been in a daze virtually all day so details like this went over her head. She did realise that saying goodbye to everyone beforehand may make it less painful when the time came to leave. A reception would just prolong the agony. He was just getting on with the job. Did he realise how difficult all this was going to be for her.

The time was coming, as the wedding was approaching, when she would have to tell everyone that her time at Hope Valley was coming to an end. Even if the grapevine was flourishing the people would deserve to hear it directly from her. There were going to be more tears over the next few days leading up to the wedding, which was supposed to be the happiest day of her life. She decided the look of sadness would have to go and be replaced by the steely resolve that she had drawn upon many times in the past.

She fronted up again for the dress fitting and marvelled at the lovely job that the girls had done for her, "This is going to make Lucas take notice," she said trying to put on a brave face. "We've had some wonderful weddings here over the years."

It was very hard for Elizabeth at school the next day knowing that she had to tell them news that they would not want to hear. She waited until after lunch, then gathered them all inside and with all the strength that she could bring to bear said, "Boys and girls, this is one of the hardest things I have ever had to do, you all know I'm getting married this weekend. What you don't know is that Mr Bouchard has a new job which means that we have to move to the city, I can't be your teacher anymore." Elizabeth was very close to tears by now, "I'm so sorry, I never thought that this would ever happen." Allie was aghast, "Nobody can teach us like you do Mrs Thornton, you are the reason we come to school." Opal cried, "We don't want another teacher, we want you, it won't be the same."

By the end of the day Elizabeth was completely spent, she sat on one of the chairs in the school and quietly reflected on all the children, past and present. Some had come with rough edges and feisty attitudes, but all of them bettered themselves under her kind and firm guidance. A good number of parents had been a challenge initially but came around in the end. She closed up for the day dreading that, in a couple of days, it will be for the last time.

At home, Elizabeth asked Laura to stay longer with Little Jack so that she could run a few errands. She went straight to the stable and quietly saddled Sergeant and rode out of the town. Stopping by the pond, she noticed the little boat which brought back so many memories with Mountie Jack during her first few years at Coal Valley as it was. She went by the bridge and felt the mixed feelings of love and the hurt of having to leave it all behind. She rode to the land and sat on the rock with their carving on it, she couldn't bear to think it was going to be the last time she would be here. It was always here that she felt so close to Jack.

Meanwhile, Allie had gone down the street to the jailhouse looking for Nathan. He had just climbed down off his horse, "Uncle Nathan, did you know that Mrs Thornton is leaving Hope Valley, she told us at school today, it was really sad." He was quite taken aback, the thought of her not being here would leave a real emptiness in his heart. He had been able to move on from her largely with the help of Fiona, however, it just wouldn't be the same without her. He had been toying with the idea of not attending the wedding. He thought now that he may have to reconsider because she may need the full support of all her friends. He resolved to ask Fiona to sit with him and Allie at the wedding.

Elizabeth rode on and found her way to the Canfield family. Minnie came out very concerned on two counts. "Elizabeth, it's lovely to see you out here again, your wedding is on the doorstep and now Angela tells us that you're leaving, is that true?" She could see how upset Elizabeth was at having to pass on news like this to valued friends. "Oh Minnie, I can't believe that I have found myself in this appalling situation, it's just not fair. We are just starting to get somewhere with Angela and now I have to leave it all behind, I am so sorry." She said how she couldn't give any details but how Lucas now has a job in Union City, "We have to move right after the wedding." Minnie was very sympathetic and said, "We will get by. You have done much more for us than you could ever imagine, we know Angela's ability now and her right to go to school. We will give Mr Landis a run for his money. I'm sorry you missed Joseph; you will see him at the ceremony." She hugged a very dispirited Elizabeth and said, "You have to follow your heart."

She got back to the stable and realised that she was going to be unsaddling Sergeant for the last time and having to say goodbye to someone very important. He was a faithful companion to both Jack and Elizabeth for a long time. He had gone through some of the roughest times in Mountie Jack's career. She hugged and patted him, "I'm going to see that you are well looked after from now on, there will always be a little spot in our hearts for you. Little Jack and me will never forget you."

Back home she thanked Laura again for looking after Little Jack. There was one more thing to do today before retiring for the evening. She grabbed her son and wandered down the street and went into the library. They sat in there all alone and reflected on the memory of its inception, the opening and ribbon cutting ceremony and all the books compliments of Lucas. This was a wonderful part of her life here in Hope Valley. She knew that there wouldn't have been a library if not for the goodwill of Lucas.

All the schoolchildren had little gifts for their teacher on her last day. Elizabeth asked them all to be nice to the new teacher whoever it may be. When the day ended, she rang the bell for the last time and remembered who gave it to her. Tomorrow, the school would become the church and she would be there for the last time.

Somehow, she found the strength to gather up her son and head down the street to say some more goodbyes. She found Faith at the infirmary, Jesse and Clara at home and told them how she was going to miss them terribly and how she hoped that they would not forget her. She found Fiona at her barber shop and said how her fondest wish was for her and Nathan to find their happiness with each other, "I saw the three of you in the café so happy together and I have to admit to a little jealousy, you are so good for both of them."

She found Bill in the café and hugged him straight away, "I can't believe that after tomorrow I may never see you again. Lucas has a new job in Union City and has sold the saloon. I have to say goodbye early as I won't have the energy for this tomorrow. There won't be any groomsmen and I'm just going to walk down the aisle myself. Then we will be gone." Elizabeth stared at Bill, "I am standing here in front of you and I just don't know what to say, I've always been able to rely on you to be the rock that I could lean on when I needed it, but now you won't be there anymore. I'm trying my hardest not to cry but forgive me if I do." Bill comforted her and searched for his thoughts, "I have watched you over the years give your best for the school children, firstly in the saloon, then in our new classroom, I watched your trials and tribulations with mountie Jack which led to a wonderful marriage, then your dreadful loss when he was taken from us. I saw your devastation and how you rose above it and survived to put your friends and community first. No one has cared more for everybody else than you, it will be our loss to see you go but you will always have our love and best wishes. Lucas will be your rock from now on." He bent down to talk to Little Jack, "Elizabeth, look after my Godchild and Jack, you look after your mother."

She now went along to the jailhouse to look for Nathan. She had to sit outside for a while to collect her composure after the words from Bill. She didn't want to, but she was very close to tears when she entered the office. She could still remember doing the same thing about a year ago when she told Nathan that she wasn't in love with him. He could see that she was distressed and pulled out a chair for her to sit down, again Little Jack went straight to Nathan and sat on his lap. "Elizabeth, Allie told me that you are leaving Hope Valley, I couldn't believe it." She went over the details again as best as she could with her quivering voice, Lucas with his new job and the sale of the saloon. "I'm here to try and say goodbye to the people I love because I won't be able to tomorrow as we have to leave straight after the ceremony. This is going to be my wedding day and it feels like a nightmare." She looked him in the eye, "Nathan, I'm losing all my best friends and there's nothing I can do about it. I can never repay you for everything you have done for us, I can't count the times that you have always been there for me and Little Jack."

Nathan could feel the tension in her, she was being forced to choose between her life at Hope Valley and her life with a man to whom she was dedicated to share her lifetime with. Both were very important to her which made the situation near impossible to bear. "Elizabeth, I fell for you very soon after I arrived here, I have been a loner and able to look after myself most of my life. You showed an interest in me and Allie and I was totally captivated. I could have taken a promotion, but I turned it down thinking that there was a future for us. It turned out different and now you and Lucas will be married tomorrow. I really wish the two of you all the very best for the future. You know the circumstances why I came to Hope Valley, it was the best decision I have ever made next to the adoption of Allie. Elizabeth, you are the strongest woman I've ever had the pleasure to meet, you can do this." She replied, "For someone who couldn't speak to me before, these are words that I will never forget and will treasure forever."

Nathan looked at Little Jack and told him, "Doctor Faith told me what she had told your father and what she told me, now I'm going to tell you, always remember who you are." Elizabeth ended by telling Nathan, "Nobody deserves to find true love more than you Nathan, I don't think it's as far away as you may think."

Earlier on in the day, the stage arrived with Lucas there to meet it. When it stopped out stepped a beaming Helen Bouchard. Lucas was tired after all the packing he had been doing; however, he was pleased to see his mother again. "Is Elizabeth around somewhere, I'm looking forward to seeing her again. "she asked. Lucas explained how she was getting around everywhere saying goodbye to everyone and how it has been a traumatic experience. Helen understood completely how Elizabeth would have to be feeling knowing the strong ties she had with Hope Valley. "I'm hoping she'll cope better soon after we are married and have moved to Union City." Helen looked at him and said, "If you think that then you haven't read her book, All that came from the heart and it won't be easily left behind, you will just have to be there for her." Lucas took her over to the saloon to settle in for the evening, "we can go and see Elizabeth later on."

The stage had pulled in while Elizabeth had been saying goodbye to Nathan in the jailhouse. She had gone to the mercantile after that to see Ned and Florence, "To think I called you the princess and suggested you return where you came from," cried Florence, "I couldn't have been more mistaken, it's not ever going to be the same here without you, we will miss you terribly." Elizabeth took one last look around the shop for the very last time, she had just about run out of tears.

She headed for the saloon for the last time. She was surprised to see Helen sitting with Lucas at a table with a cup of tea, "I'm so sorry Helen, I'd forgotten all about you arriving today." Helen was dismayed to see how drained Elizabeth looked, it seemed that the wedding was to be more of an ordeal than a memorable occasion. "I'm sure that I could manage a cup of tea, then I must go, I have one more family to see." said Elizabeth. "Lucas tells me that he has to start his new job at the hotel immediately, I will expect him to organise a wonderful honeymoon to make all this ordeal worth the effort for you." Lucas understood that she needed to excuse herself, so he walked her to the door with a final kiss before seeing his bride at the church tomorrow.

She knocked at the door, the same one that was never a barrier to her as Rosemary had always said, "Our home is your home as well, you come straight in whatever the time of day it is." Rosemary answered the door and was shocked to see her best friend in such a state. She helped Elizabeth inside and sat her down where they had talked over so many things throughout the years. Rosemary was close to tears herself; she knew exactly what was going on, Elizabeth was here to say her final goodbye. They sat together hand in hand for some time until Elizabeth said, "Rosemary, I can't believe my time in Hope Valley is nearly over, this is not the way I thought it would turn out." A very thoughtful Rosemary said, "Remember a couple of Christmases ago when there were presents to open, you said, I never thought I'd be having to do all this alone. Well, you are never going to be alone ever again. Lucas is a fine man who loves you deeply, he will be a good father for Little Jack. Soon you'll be in Union City and starting a whole new life."

That may have been meant as an attempt to cheer Elizabeth up, but it had little effect, She asked, "Rosemary, can you do three things for me, I forgot to ask Bill to take care of Sergeant, I want him to always be Little Jack's horse but have Bill and Nathan look after him, he deserves the very best. I'm sorry to have to ask you this, will you pack my things up when you get time and send them to me over the next few weeks, I don't have the heart or the energy to do all this now." "You said there was a third thing," Rosemary asked. Elizabeth took both hands in hers and looked hopefully in her eyes, "Yes, please Rosemary, don't ever forget me, we've gone through so much together, I don't ever want you to forget me."

Lee had seen all this and wisely left them alone. He could see how upset Rosemary became after Elizabeth left, she had just lost her best friend. "Do you think she'll remember us," Lee wondered, "maybe in a years' time we and Hope Valley will be just a distant memory, Somehow, I don't think that will happen, I can't believe that she could leave Jack behind completely, her home for all these years and her little school that has meant so much. No, I don't think she could forget us in a million years."

Elizabeth returned home and sat quietly with her son on their final night in the row house. There wasn't a murmur or any sound and for a while she felt quite relaxed. At least for one more day this was still home. Some time went by and then right out of the blue she said, "Father, when you saw me off to take up my teaching position out here, you couldn't possibly have imagined everything that I would have to go through. I could have stayed in Hamilton, got a job there, maybe marry Charles and have a good life there. Instead, I chose to throw myself into the deep end and what a ride it has been. I met Jack and now have your grandson, now I have Lucas. I have taken on every challenge with the same grit and determination as you would have at Hope Valley. Tomorrow starts a new chapter in our lives and I hope I can do as well as I have here. I have given my best. I really need your guidance and your blessing to help me get through."

She awoke next morning staring up at the ceiling, she came to the realisation that her wedding day had actually arrived. She lay in bed with all the mixed feelings that she had ever experienced, she felt secure where she was but now there was the love of a man awaiting her for the future just later on in the day.

She had arranged for Rosemary to come over and help them get ready for the afternoon wedding, Little Jack was going to look sensational, his dad would be very proud of him and probably would have teased him a little about his fancy duds. It was a fairly secluded task but, at the end, Elizabeth looked absolutely beautiful with Rosemary very complimentary. Rosemary took Little Jack and left Elizabeth to say goodbye to her home of so many memories. Elizabeth sat quietly alone recalling the time she took off Jack's ring, preparing to move into a new future. She said, "Jack, I will never forget how your words told me to open up my heart when I could, I think I have done so but I want you to know, I will never let you out of my heart at any time. Little Jack will always remember his famous and most wonderful father no matter where we are. This is my promise."

She closed the door for the last time hesitating to take a last look around. She wandered down the track on her own and soon the little church came into view like so many times. It was always the most beautiful sight on a sunny day with the lush green grassy fields. She could remember the times where it would be surrounded by snow around Christmas time. Lucas's car was parked out the front and all the people were inside waiting for her to arrive. She took her time to soak in the occasion wishing it could never end.

She stood at the foot of the steps waiting for the moment to be ushered in when they were ready. Rosemary smiled and held out her arm and soon Elizabeth was inside the front door. Lucas was standing next to Pastor Canfield beaming at the sight of his most beautiful bride. She could see the children of the little choir all ready to sing for her. She took a few steps down the aisle and noticed the Canfields remembering the huge effort she had made on Angela's behalf, a few more steps and she saw Fiona hand in hand with Allie and Nathan. She now thought things were finally right between them.

She stood next to Lucas and Pastor Canfield began, "Dearly beloved, we are gathered here to join in holy matrimony," Elizabeth remembered the last time she was here, this was the school and the church that Jack had so painstakingly built out of the reward that he had received for valour in his job. There was the fire the very day before the wedding and everybody had swung into action with paint and repairs, this was the same people who would move heaven and earth for the people they loved. She noticed her son standing there with them and she thought, this is the place where Jack would have wanted his son to go to school, how proud she would be on his first day with his mother as the schoolteacher. The little choir started, "Oh Danny Boy, the pipes, the pipes are calling, from glen to glen and down the mountainside," She recalled the sign that Henry and the children had made to give the school a name, The Jack Thornton School, "The summer's gone and all the roses falling. It's you, it's you must go, and I must bide." She turned to Lucas and cried, "I can't do this, I'm so sorry Lucas, I can't marry you." She took off the ring and gave it back to him, grabbed her son in her arms and rushed out of the church.