The Field of Dreams Chapter 23- Words Can Hurt, a when calls the heart fanfic

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters within this story. All rights and much respect go to Crown Media, Hallmark, Brian Bird, Michael Landon, Jr., the actors, creators, and writers of the show "When Calls the Heart." Any real people or places noted in the chapter are just there for storyline purposes.

Chapter 23- Words Can Hurt

Recap of Chapter 22 ending...

Elizabeth stood, placed her cup in the kitchen sink and responded, "I am a little tired. A nap would be perfect." She grabbed her bag, which was now noticeably lighter, kissed Jack's cheek, thanked Charlotte for her kindness and walked back to her room.

"So, what do you think?" Jack asked.

Charlotte walked around the table and took the seat that Elizabeth had just vacated. She wasn't generally an emotional woman, but he observed tears welling in her eyes.

"Jack, she seems perfect for you. I never thought I'd say this, but I'm glad you got hurt in that game."

Jack laughed, "You have no idea how many times I've said the very same thing." Jack looked down as his mother's hand covered his, "Mom, there is no other woman for me; I knew it when I first met her."

Charlotte smiled as she observed Jack's eyes light up at the mere mention of Elizabeth, "I don't know what I'd do without her; she's everything to me."

"Well, I don't know her well, but I'd say she feels the same way about you."

Jack kissed his mother before heading back to his room to relax before dinner.

Two doors down, Elizabeth was sitting on the side of the bed, thankful that her introduction had gone much better than she had anticipated. With so many feelings swirling around, she pulled her journal from her bag, flipped to the next blank page, clicked her favorite pen open and did her best to convey all of her feelings and emotions from a whirlwind day onto the empty canvas…

"Being nervous and excited conjures up the same sensations; it's positive vs. negative; confidence vs. apprehension; calm vs. angst, and encouraged vs. panic stricken. Each positive response feeds off of its negative counterpart, pushing us through those uncomfortable experiences as we learn more about ourselves."

Elizabeth took a deep breath and thought about the man she was planning to marry only a few doors down. She thought about the first time she saw him on the field, how he filled out his baseball uniform, and how he seemed so kind, and gentlemanly like, so different from many of the other men she'd met. Then her heart pounded as she thought about the many times she turned him down; the fact that she had no intent to see him socially; and how the thrill she felt simply being near him almost didn't come to pass.

She glanced down at her journal and began to write again…

"Our mind is made up, or so we think. We refuse to say hello for fear of risking another goodbye. We know that we must open up but past experiences make us cautious, uneasy and leery of those who show interest. For the past determines the future and our past is often riddled with betrayal, causing us to not only question the motives of those around us, but also the ability to trust ourselves.

"We're supposed to move through those experiences that wound us, learning from each and every mistake, not repeating them again, but also not allowing them to hold us hostage. By refusing to accept the lessons available, we baulk at the opportunity to reshape our thinking, allowing our wounds to imprison us, holding us to what was, instead of what might be.

I always told myself that one day the man of my dreams would walk into my life. He would look at me with a glimmer in his eyes like nothing I've ever seen before. He would understand me, getting things right, where everyone else before him had failed. He would accept me as I am with all of my quirks and idiosyncrasies, and that he'd love me for all of my perfect imperfections. He'd be the one to make me smile like no one else before him, and that without asking, he'd drop everything to spend time with me, with no expectations of anything in return. I'd want him to feel that with one kiss, one simple kiss, that I could hold his heart and make love to his soul forever.

I wasn't looking; I refused to allow you in, and with each attempt, I pushed harder, afraid to feel, afraid of what I already felt. You didn't give up. You had faith in me when I'd lost it myself, and for that I thank you. You are truly my greatest surprise."

Elizabeth dropped her journal and pen back into her bag. She stretched out on the bed and closed her eyes, thinking that a short cat nap sounded absolutely wonderful. The only thing that would have made it better would have been to be two doors down, lying in bed with Jack. However, this was his mother's home and she would never disrespect her property with such behavior.

Elizabeth took a deep cleansing breath, thankful that Charlotte was so kind, and loving towards her. Even with her anxiety at a fevered pitch before their arrival, the trip was certainly worth taking, and brought her and Jack closer to being able to set the date for their own wedding… or could they still just elope?"

Now on with our story…

Jack held Elizabeth's hand as they walked down the hall together. He stopped at her door, and glanced down the hall looking for his mother before leaning in and capturing her lips.

"Mmm, I love you, Jack."

"I love you too. You go get some sleep and I'll come get you in a few hours."

Elizabeth slipped inside her room, stretched out on the bed and closed her eyes, quickly falling asleep.

Her phone rang, waking her from a deep sleep. Seeing her mother's picture on the screen she immediately answered, "Hi mom," she said groggily.

"Hi honey. Did I wake you?"

"Uh no, I'm up…" she lied.

"I wanted to see if you and Jack had decided on a wedding date."

"Actually we haven't talked about it yet, why?"

"Well honey, we can't waste time here. There are arrangements that we need to make."

"I know mom, but Jack and I haven't really discussed it. Why do you need to know now?"

"Well, I wanted to tell you that I talked with Reverend Stewart today, and even though you aren't currently attending, he will still allow you to book the church for the ceremony."

"Mom, we haven't decided where we want to have the ceremony, or for that matter what kind of service we want."

"Honey, you have to get married at the church. Your father and I married there and so did Viola…unfortunately Julie…"

Elizabeth interrupted, "Mom, I know what Julie did. Really, can't we let that go? She and Carson are happy. Besides, what makes the marriage are the people, not where the ceremony takes place."

"But there is something about tradition; it's part of our story. You don't want to break that, do you?"

"I'll talk to Jack."

"Okay, but the church is working on dates any time after May…"

"May, as in May 2019?"

"Yes…they're doing some renovations which should be completed by then. That should give us enough time to order your dress and make the other arrangements."

"But mom, Jack and I were hoping to get married sooner that next summer."

"I know, but weddings can't be rushed, dear. Viola's took a year to plan. Of course, you could kill me like your sister Julie did and just run off."

There was silence on the line as Elizabeth realized that Julie's actions would now be her burden to bear.

Mrs. Thatcher continued, "You wouldn't run off like Julie did, would you?"

"Uh, no…but I'm not sure what we want."

"Well I need to book the church, so talk with Jack so we can get started. I was thinking the third Saturday in June."

"Mom, Jack is a baseball player, and he's pretty tied up during summertime."

"Okay, well if you wait until the season is over that will give us more time to plan."

"Mom, we'll talk about it when I get home, okay?"

"Get home…its 9 o'clock on a school night, where are you?"

"We're in San Diego. It's only 6 o'clock here. We flew out today to meet Jack's mom."

"Well, nothing like letting me know. After all I'm just your mother…"

"I'm sorry; Jack made the arrangements when we got home last night. Besides, it's just a quick trip. I hadn't met his mom yet, so before we can move further, I needed to meet his mom," Elizabeth's heart began to pound as she completed her thought.

"Feeling a bit gutsy she continued, "Mom, I was actually thinking about getting married on the beach…"

"Well, I believe that weddings are meant to be blessed in a church."

Elizabeth took a deep breath, doing her best to gain control of her pounding heart.

"Elizabeth…"

"Yes mom…"

"Are you coming home?"

"Of course I'm coming home."

"You aren't eloping, are you?"

"No ma'am; we have no plans to elope."

"Okay, because it will kill your father and me if you do. When will you be home?"

"We fly home on Sunday."

"Okay, think about the date and we can let Reverend Stewart know next week. But Elizabeth…"

"Yes ma'am…"

"Don't let a lot of time slip by or the good dates will be taken."

"I love you mom."

"I love you too. Have fun…"

"I'll try."

Jack was stretched out in his bed; his eyes were closed and his thoughts returned to Elizabeth as they often did. Although he was not asleep, he was desperately trying to return to the dream he'd had early that morning. He had no luck, and found himself feeling frustrated over what he desperately wanted, and what was comfortable for Elizabeth.

Lying there, he continued to toss and turn, certainly not restful, but doing his best to keep his irritation at their slow movement toward marriage under wraps.

Hearing his phone ringing, Jack grabbed it from his bedside table. He didn't recognize the number, but answered the call anyway.

"Hello…"

"Is this Jack…Jack Thornton?"

"Yes it is…"

"Hi Jack. I'm Andrew Friedman, President of Baseball Operations for the Dodgers. Have I caught you at a bad time?"

"No, not at all. How can I help you?"

"Well, I was calling to see if we could set up a meeting to discuss your trade? Maybe next Thursday? That should give you enough time to make travel arrangements."

"Well, actually Mr. Friedman…"

"Please Jack, call me Andy… Mr. Friedman is my father."

"Okay Andy, actually I'm in San Diego right now."

"WOW, perfect timing. Would you be able to meet for dinner tomorrow night?"

"I'm actually here with my fiancé."

"Hmm, let's meet for dinner. You bring your fiancé and I'll bring my wife."

"Okay, where would you like to meet?"

"Would you be able to meet us at Hotel Bel Air? It's on Stone Canyon Road in LA. Wolfgang Puck has a restaurant there that is out of this world."

"I'm sure I can find it. What time?"

"Is 6 okay?"

"That's fine; we'll be there."

"Jack, bring an overnight bag for you and your fiancé and I'll get you a room. No need in you trying to fight the LA traffic on a Friday night."

"That's not nec…"

"See you tomorrow Jack," and before Jack could protest the offer of the room, the call ended.

Jack placed his phone on the bedside table, "That's not necessary…" he thought.

Down the hall Elizabeth was sitting at the kitchen table as Charlotte entered the room. Seeing her wipe her eyes she asked, "Elizabeth, what's wrong?"

"Nothing, I'm sorry; I'm just being silly, I guess."

"Your tears aren't silly, honey. Please tell me what's wrong? Did you and Jack have a misunderstanding?"

Elizabeth wiped her eyes for what felt like the umpteenth time, "No ma'am, Jack is wonderful. It's nothing like that."

"Okay, so what happened? What has you so upset?"

"I'm torn between the people I love the most in this world, and I don't know what to do."

"About what? How can I help?"

"I'm sorry; it's nothing for you to worry about."

"Honey, my son loves you and in my book that makes you family. Family sticks together, so please, let me help."

Elizabeth glanced down, "It's the wedding."

"What about it?"

"My mom has certain ideas of how it should be. My older sister had an elaborate wedding, but my younger sister ran off and eloped. My mom was so upset about it, and now Julie's actions are weighing heavily on my shoulders."

Tears began to fall again, "I'm sorry Mrs. Thor…I mean Charlotte. I just don't want to let anyone down, but I feel like no matter what I decide, someone is going to be angry."

Charlotte reached over and took her hand, "Honey, the only thing I ask is that I be invited. Whether it's in Baltimore, or San Diego, I just want to see my son get married. Nothing else really matters to me."

"We would never run off and exclude you."

"What do you want?"

"I want everyone to be happy; I want to be happy, and right now I'm not happy, and I suspect when I tell Jack that my mom wants us to get married in November..."

"November? That's quick; that wouldn't be too bad."

"No, not this November…November 2019."

"Oh WOW, I see what you mean."

"Jack won't be happy. I keep trying to tell my mom, but she's not listening."

"Well, Elizabeth, it's rare that everyone is happy. You and Jack are starting your life together, and in the end, you two are the ones who need to be happy. Do what you want, and at some point everyone will have to accept it. Don't settle, unless you're content with the consequences that come."

Elizabeth wiped her eyes again, "Can we talk about something else? Maybe some funny stories of Jack when he was younger? I'm personally tired of crying."

Jack checked his watch, 6:15PM. He got up from his bed and walked down to Elizabeth's room where he knocked but received no answer. Hearing women's voices coming from the kitchen, he continued down the hall.

Sitting at the kitchen table were Elizabeth and Charlotte laughing over childhood stories of Jack that had previously been sworn to secrecy.

"Mom…"

"Jack, you two are about to get married; nothing should be a secret."

Elizabeth's laugh calmed, "Hey, did you really take a school's mascot and keep it in your room?"

"Well, it was just a small pig; I took better care of it than the guys at Coronado did."

"But in your room? How did you hide it from Charlotte and your dad?"

Initially it wasn't hard, because they were out of town visiting my dad's parents. Jack turned back to his mom, "Do you remember when you came back commenting that the house smelled like a barn?"

Charlotte laughed, "I sure do, and I was spraying Lysol and Febreeze all through the house trying to cover the barnyard odor because the Stanford recruiter was coming over.

"Did you get caught?" Elizabeth asked.

"I had Barney…that was the pig's name, for three days before my parents got home."

"So I assume that your parents found out?"

"We were all sitting around the dining room table…Let me see, it was me, mom, dad, Coach Taylor," Jack turned to Elizabeth, "He was my high school coach, the Stanford recruiter Mark Thomas, and the head baseball coach, Brian Martin."

Jack blushed as he and Charlotte began to laugh. Elizabeth giggled, assuming that the ending to their story must be funny and she didn't want to be left out.

Jack continued, "I had just signed my intent to attend Stanford letter when my brother Tom opened my bedroom door, and outran Barney."

Elizabeth was quickly drawn into their laughter, "Oh my gosh, what happened?"

Charlotte began fanning herself as she attempted to get her laughter under control. "That pig ran all through the house. He knocked over the trash can, scooted under the coffee table, tossing it upside down and scattering everything on it to the floor. You would have thought that Jack was competing in one of those "Catch the greased pig" contests the way he was running around. Every time he grabbed the little thing it squealed so loud. I think it scared him and he'd let it go."

"How did you catch it?" Elizabeth asked.

"Mom poured something into a bowl; I don't even know what it was, but it made noise."

"Peanuts…"

"What?" Jack asked.

"Peanuts, it was peanuts that I poured into the bowl. They made a lot of noise and caused the pig to follow me outside."

"Did you get into trouble?" Elizabeth asked.

Jack shook his head back and forth, "I should have, but everyone kept it under wraps. Barney mysteriously landed back in Coronado High School's courtyard under the cloak of darkness, and nothing else was ever said about it…until now, Mom!"

"I'm sorry, Jack. Elizabeth and I were just bonding here."

"So, where would you ladies like to go to dinner?"

"Jack," Charlotte interjected, "I'm not really hungry. Why don't you and Elizabeth go out? There's a wonderful restaurant on Harbor Island Drive called Tom Ham's Lighthouse. The seafood is exceptional. Well, I haven't been over that way in quite a while, but the last time I went it was perfect. It's a little out of the way, but it has a beautiful view of the water."

Jack turned to Elizabeth, "Do you feel like going out?"

"Sure; give me ten minutes and I'll be ready," she stated as she gave him a quick kiss and headed back to her bedroom.

"What's wrong?" Charlotte asked feeling quite useful as both of them appeared to have been in need of her motherly advice.

"You know, I have been away from home for years, and you still can read me like a book," he replied as he glanced down the hall toward Elizabeth's room.

"You are here with a beautiful woman who obviously loves you dearly, so what's wrong?"

"I got a call a little while ago from Andy Friedman, President of Baseball Operations for the Dodgers…" Jack began to explain as he observed the smile cover his mother's face. "Mom, I'm not so sure that it's a good thing. I mean, I can't ask Elizabeth to completely uproot herself, but then again, I don't want to be away from her."

Charlotte could tell that Jack needed to talk, so she remained quiet, giving him the floor…

"Mom, I remember when I was in high school and I was dating Amber…"

"She was a sweet girl, but…"

"I know what you're going to say; we were young and neither of us really knew what we wanted in life."

"Well, you didn't, and how long did you date?"

"One month, but back then it felt real."

"Do you remember what I told you?"

"I sure do. You said that when the right woman comes along, I will know. I will move heaven and earth to be with her." Jack looked down before glancing back at his mom. He smiled at the thought, "Every woman I dated before Elizabeth…I just didn't feel it. I can't say that I believed you then, but when I met her, I just knew. Well, I knew, I still had to talk her into giving me a chance."

Assuming that Elizabeth would be back momentarily, he smiled, "You're my rock, mom, and you know what you're talking about."

"Well then honey you need to talk to her about this. Keep the lines of communication open. But just remember, it goes both ways, so she may have some things on her mind that she needs to discuss with you too."

"Is something wrong?"

"I think you two should take some time tonight to talk; to get some things out in the open."

"Is that why you don't want to go out?"

"Honey, you don't need to take your momma out with you. Spend some time with Elizabeth. You both need it."

Elizabeth began talking as she left her room and started walking down the hall, "I'm ready and it hasn't even been ten minutes," she stopped as she entered the kitchen and realized that the laughter which was present moments ago was now gone. "Is something wrong?"

Jack jumped up, "No, nothing's wrong. Let's go…"

Elizabeth was ahead of Jack walking toward the door when Charlotte called out, "Jack," causing him to turn around, "Talk to her," she mouthed in his direction.

They stepped outside and Jack took Elizabeth's hand as they descended the porch steps.

"Is something wrong?" she asked.

"What is it with you women?"

"We just know you. I mean, I don't presume to know you as well as your mother does, but…"

They stood just outside the car; his hand on her arm turned her to face him, "You may not know how climbing on the monkey bars was my favorite pastime at recess, or that I once nursed a bird with a broken wing back to health when I was in high school, but Elizabeth, you know me; you know the real me."

Jack stepped closer as his lips made gentle contact with hers. "You know what's in my heart, and you have to know how much I love you."

Elizabeth glanced away as if she was trying to make sense of his heartfelt proclamation and yet it seemed as though something was wrong. "I know you do, so will you confide in me and tell me what's bothering you?"

"Will you do the same?"

"I'm fine."

Feeling as though she would talk to him when she was ready, he opened the door and Elizabeth slipped inside. She had her seatbelt on by the time he made his way to the driver's side and took his seat behind the wheel.

Feeling her eyes on him he stated, "I was hoping to enjoy this weekend with you and my mom, but I got a call today from someone in the Dodger's organization, and they want to meet for dinner tomorrow night."

Elizabeth remained quiet.

"Did you hear me?"

She shook her head up and down, "Yes, I heard you. I knew it was coming, but I thought maybe we'd be married and settled before we had to think about it."

She spun the ring on her finger before glancing back toward him, "Well, I'm sure your mom and I can find something to do while you're gone."

"No, Elizabeth I may not have a choice in where I play, but we're engaged; we will be married, soon I hope, and your input is important. I was actually planning on you coming with me."

She smiled, "Are you sure?"

"Well, it's actually already planned, so Andy and his wife are expecting you to be there. I'm expecting you to be there…please."

She glanced down as he took her hand, "Jack, I quess we just have to take things as they come, right?"

Jack pulled out of the driveway and headed for the highway, "Right, we'll take everything as it comes."

Jack continued onto I-5 for the short jaunt to Harbor Island Drive and the Tom Ham Lighthouse restaurant. He squeezed her hand, causing her to glance in his direction, "So, will you tell me what's on your mind?"

"Nothing, just glad to be here with you."

"Honey, you're quiet; have I done something to upset you?"

She hesitantly smiled, "No, of course not. Just thinking…"

"About what?"

"The wedding."

Without meaning to, he placed his own demands upon her. "Well, whatever you want is fine with me, but I don't want to wait a long time. You know, like in NASCAR, let's get 'er done…" he stated in an attempt to lighten the mood.

"Is that how you see our wedding; just something to get done?"

"Honey, I was just kidding."

As they drove into the parking lot, and pulled into a space facing the water, Jack commented on the beautiful view, doing his best to change the subject.

"WOW, your mom was right." Feeling the need for the salt air to clear her mind she asked, "Will you take a walk with me after dinner?"

Jack pulled her hand up to his lips, "Anything for you."

Jack walked around to the passenger side, but before she exited the vehicle she commented, "Jack look… is this place even open?"

Jack turned around and observed the dark building and empty parking lot. "I didn't even realize that when we pulled in. I need to be more observant."

Elizabeth reached up, grabbed his shirt and gently pulled him down to her, "I think you're quite observant. If you weren't, how else would you have known that down deep inside I was already in love with you; I just needed you to show me that it was okay…" she pulled him into her as their lips met, puzzle pieces meant only for each other.

"Hmm, maybe I should pull you into dark parking lots more often," he snickered as he closed her door and walked back around to the driver's side. "I guess we need to find somewhere else to eat," Jack stated. He pulled out his phone and started searching.

"What's that place out there?" she asked, pointing down the beach at a small well lit building.

"Hmm, that used to be Coasterra, but I'm not sure if it still is. Back in the day it was Mexican food; is that okay?"

"That sounds good."

"Well, Coasterra was a great place and the view was wonderful." Forgetting who he was talking to he continued, "My friends and I would take our girlfriends there for dinner before the ring dance and prom… I'm sorry."

"Jack, you don't need to be sorry. You're 31 years old; I know you've had other girlfriends and relationships. I know I'm not your first; it's okay."

He leaned over as his left hand behind her head pulled her closer, "But you're my most important." His mouth covered hers with a gentle intent and sound purpose, as his tongue pressed through her lips.

As his tongue swept along the soft skin on the inside of her mouth, her body softened and she seemed to melt into him, almost as if the center console no longer separated them.

Jack struggled to turn his body toward her as his arm reached over her allowing his hand to raise the handle on her seat, lowering her backward.

His lips met hers again and again, and with each kiss, and Elizabeth's gentle moans, the passion soared as the windows steamed.

"I want you; I'm so tired of waiting…" he breathlessly whispered.

"Knock, knock, knock…"

Startled, Jack jumped up, but frightened, Elizabeth remained in a reclining position.

"What are you kids doing?" A voice was heard outside the car as a flashlight shined in the steamy window.

Observing blue lights in the parking lot behind them, Jack lowered the window, "Officer…"

"Jack, Jack Thornton, is that you?"

"Neal Patterson, you're a cop?"

Jack climbed out of the car, leaving Elizabeth reclining in the passenger seat as she tried her best to cover her face and the redness that was quickly rising from her chest and up her neck.

"Man, I never thought I'd see you here again."

"Why? My mom lives here."

"Don't you live in New York?"

"I was in New York, but the season is over now, so I'm in Baltimore with my fiancé…

"Please don't tell him my name…please don't tell him my name…please don't tell him my name," Elizabeth repeatedly prayed.

"Elizabeth Thatcher…"

Great…thanks! Elizabeth released a frustrated breath, finding it hard to remember a time when she felt so embarrassed. That was until Jack walked around to the other side of the car.

Suddenly the door opened, "Elizabeth, this is my old buddy Neal from high school."

Elizabeth, realizing that she now felt even more embarrassed than she did just a moment ago raised her arm up to shake Neal's hand who turned back to face Jack.

"Look, I don't want to interrupt your…whatever you want to call it, but this place has been closed for awhile and well, the number of people who come here to have se…, uh you know what I mean, it's surprising." Neal stepped out of the way as Jack closed the door. "We've been asked to patrol here regularly to keep the hanky panky down. So, I'm sorry, but you'll need to find another special place," he punched Jack's arm and laughed.

"Sorry man, we're leaving."

"Nice to see you Jack. Well, maybe not like this, but call me when you come back in town. We'll get together."

Jack climbed back inside the car and glanced over at Elizabeth.

"I. Am. Mortified…" Elizabeth whispered as her hand flipped the lever raising her seat. "Why did you let him think we were here to have sex?"

"I didn't…" He turned the key in the ignition and began the short drive over to what he hoped was still Coasterra.

"But you didn't correct him either. Is that some macho thing? Like high fiving, trash talk and chest bumps; having your friends think you're getting it on with some chick is more manly somehow?"

Before exiting the parking lot he stopped and put the car in park. Turning to her he quickly responded, "First of all, you are not just some chick; you're my chick," he laughed but only momentarily before realizing that she was not laughing with him. "What's wrong Elizabeth? I mean, are you just trying to start a fight with me?"

"I'm sorry, Jack. I'm not in a joking mood," she stated as she turned away and glanced out the window. "I've just got a lot on my mind," she whispered.

"You're not the only one…" he whispered under his breath in reply.

A few moments later they pulled into the well lit and extremely busy Coasterra Mexican Restaurant. It was a beautiful evening with a warm breeze coming off of the water. Elizabeth left her jacket in the car, feeling as though it would not be needed. They stepped inside and requested a table on the patio overlooking Pacific Beach.

Jack ordered a bottle of wine, joking that "This is the first time I've been here where I've been old enough to drink."

Elizabeth ordered the Lobster and Black Bean Flauta, while Jack referred back to his all time favorite, and surprisingly still on the menu…Ahi Tuna Tostada. Their conversation was light, mainly harmless topics as each one had things on their minds. They discussed the weather, the view, and the delicious food, hopefully leaving topics like the wedding, intimacy and familial obligations to another time.

Following their meal, Jack and Elizabeth shared a Buttercake topped with roasted plantain ice cream, and drizzled with caramel and powdered sugar.

After paying the bill, Jack took Elizabeth's hand as they stepped outside. "Would you still like to go for a walk?"

"Yes, the salt air always seems to clear my mind," she replied as he tugged on her arm gently, pulling her to the stairs leading down to the beach.

"Can I ask you something?" Jack asked.

"Well, the educator in me would say yes you may, but go ahead."

"We've met both sets of parents, well not my dad, but you know what I mean. When are we going to set a wedding date?"

"When do you want to get married?"

Jack smiled as he perused the buildings along the water, "If there was a Justice of the Peace I'd marry you right now."

"As nice as that sounds, there are arrangements to make…the church won't be available until late spring."

"SPRING?"

"Late spring at the earliest, but with baseball season; it's looking more like November."

As they continued down the beach, he seemed quiet, too quiet. "Is something wrong, Jack?"

"Apparently several things, but the most pressing is that I didn't tell you everything about tomorrow."

"What about tomorrow? The baseball season is over so you can't possibly have to be out here indefinitely." She stopped and her hand on his arm turned him to face her, "Is that what it is? You have to be out here?"

"Andy Friedman, he's the President of Baseball Operations, is getting us a room at the Hotel Bel Air to keep us from having to fight the LA traffic on a Friday night back to San Diego."

"WOW, that's very nice of them."

"Elizabeth, it's just one room…"

"Jack, we're both adults; besides…oh wait, are you afraid to be alone in a room with me? I mean, I know I've asked you to stay and hold me at night and you hesitate."

"No, don't be silly; I'm not afraid to be alone with you. It's just, well, I think I've been very understanding and not pushed, even though you've made it extremely diffi…cult…for…me…" realizing he'd said too much, he swallowed hard and prayed that the waves drowned out his words.

"Excuse me? Are you throwing this in my face? WOW, I guess that saying is right…"

"What saying?"

"Men want to marry a virgin; they just don't want to leave any around."

"Well no, I'm not throwing it in your face, and as for that stupid saying, I can't say if it's true or not. I want you, virgin or not, I love you."

Jack took her hand, feeling the need to touch her, "I'm just saying, I'm 31 years old; I want to get married and I really don't want to wait any longer."

"So what does this have to do with us sharing a room at the hotel?"

He looked at her in disbelief, "I really have been patient, but kissing you good night and either rolling over in bed or going to another room is getting old. It should be getting old for you too."

"I guess Selma's looking pretty good to you now…" the sentence escaped her mouth before she realized it.

Her words angered him as he quickly responded, "I don't even know where that comment came from, but it was uncalled for. You know how I feel about you."

"But I can't be something I'm not. You knew that and if what you wanted was just someone to sleep with I'm not the girl. Maybe you should have picked a woman who would just jump in bed with you; then marriage wouldn't be that big of a deal," she snapped back before turning away and walking down the beach.

He grabbed her arm and turned her back to face him, "Stop it; I don't know what's going on here, but we're not doing this. What has you so upset that you feel the need to take it out on me? I love you; I want you, but you know what…I won't apologize for wanting to make love to you."

"I never asked you to apologize, just to understand."

"I do understand; and as difficult as it's been, I've accepted it. But Elizabeth…"

"Then let's get married now?" she blurted out.

"Elizabeth, be serious. Your family would be so upset if we got married and they weren't here."

"Well I was being serious, but maybe you can understand now how difficult all of this is. I'm trying to make everyone happy, and no one is happy, especially you," she stated as her eyes watered.

Jack pulled her into his chest as he felt her shudder against him. "Shh," he whispered as she cried on his shoulder.

She leaned back, capturing his eyes. His hands rested on her jaw line as his thumbs brushed away her tears.

"Jack, I'm sorry. I don't want to fight with you, but I feel as though I can't do anything right. If I do what makes my mom happy, then you're angry with me. If I make you happy, my parents will be livid."

"What do you want, Elizabeth?"

Through her tears she began, "It's our wedding, not my mother's, but it's like I'm committing a heinous sin if I don't get married in the church."

"What do you want…not your mom, what do you want?"

"I'd like to get married on the beach, barefoot, and in the dress I've always dreamed of under a beautiful canopy facing the ocean."

"Then that's what we should do."

"I wish it was that easy, Jack."

"Elizabeth, just tell your mother that you want to get married on the beach and not in the church."

"It's not as easy as that, Jack. It should be, but it isn't."

"Well then, you can't be upset with your mom if you don't even give her the opportunity to know how you feel."

"You don't understand. It's different for sons than it is daughters."

"I know that you can't blame your mom if you don't even give her the chance to understand."

"Jack, I have talked to her…"

"Well, talk some more. After all, she's the one who got your dad to come around. It can't be that bad, honey. I know you're feeling stressed, but could you be blowing this out of proportion?"

"You know, I think we just need to stop right now, because we've both said and are going to say things that we don't mean, and some things we won't be able to take back, so before we make it worse…" she turned around and started back toward the parking lot.

Jack followed her back to the car, hoping that when they arrived home, his mother would still be awake and provide him with some pearls of wisdom for this situation.

They rode home in virtual silence; each one afraid to open their mouths for fear that unintentional words would be spoken. However, as they travelled down the interstate, his hand covered hers, each one resting on the console between the seats. His thumb stroked across the top of her hand, but as she wiped her eyes, still no words were spoken.

Charlotte was already in bed and the den light was the only one left on in the house when they walked inside.

"Good night Jack," Elizabeth stated as she laid her jacket across the back of a kitchen chair and walked alone down the hall.

Jack stood in the den and watched her disappear into the dark hallway as he wondered what was happening to them. As he walked down the hall and passed her room he thought, "Maybe she just needs some sleep."

Jack stepped into his old room and closed the door behind him. Although introducing Elizabeth to his mother had gone even better than he'd expected, this trip was not turning out as he'd intended. He knew he was pushing her and didn't mean to, but she seemed to be struggling with her own issues and it worried him.

He stretched out on the bed and turned on the radio hoping that the soft music would lull him to sleep. Unfortunately, sleep would remain elusive.

Elizabeth sat on the side of her bed; her stomach was in knots, and her emotions and feelings were swirling much like a tornado whipping through her body. She turned on the radio and pulled her journal from her bag, opening it to her most recent entry…

Her fingers ran across the ink on the page, hoping that the contact would somehow take her back to the emotions she felt when writing it. She flipped to the next blank page and hoped that in conveying her feelings and emotions that everything that was truly important would be put into perspective…

"We're anxious, somber, disappointed and concerned, yet we say nothing. Much like a clown, the smile we share hides the sadness within. With no words spoken, the silence is filled as others interpret our meaning. The story is written based on what they see, rarely what is true, or what we've chosen. When we do speak, the words we use and the tone we take are often unintended, many times hurting those we care the most about. And yet we make no attempt to correct what we've said and/or done. We leave things as is, much like it doesn't matter, when in fact it's eating us up inside.

As a small child, I depended on my parents to make every decision in my life. They decided the schools I attended, activities I participated in, and they directed and encouraged my every thought and dream. Being appreciative to them is an understatement. However, my desires of the past are not necessarily what drives my future. But is there ever a time when it's acceptable to be selfish; to cast the desires of another to the wind, turning a blind eye to their dreams?

The truth is… you raised me with yourselves in mind, but yet to be my own person. You raised me to consider everyone's feelings, but in the end to stand strong and firm in my own beliefs. You raised me to see through the eyes of others, listen with open ears, and to feel with a heart that always has room for more. You found and nurtured pieces of me that I never knew existed or had simply lost somewhere along the way.

For everything you have instilled in me I am thankful. I may need tweaking from time to time, but I do believe that in your heart you truly want me to be happy. So, if you don't always get your way, I hope you understand that you were the one who encouraged me to be strong willed and independent."

Elizabeth closed her journal and sat it on the bedside table, picking up her cell phone at the same time. Her fingers quickly searched the internet before she wiped her eyes and lay back in bed. She closed her eyes, listening to the radio as she tried to fall asleep.

Just down the hall, Jack lay in a dark room. His eyes were closed, but his head was spinning and all he could see was Elizabeth pushing him away. It seemed sudden and it bothered him that she wouldn't talk about it. He turned the radio up slightly…

Listening to the same radio station, they were both caught by the accuracy of a song that neither had previously heard. It was called "Sad Song" featuring Elena Coats by We the Kings… (If you've never heard it, look it up…absolutely beautiful)

You and I, we're like fireworks and symphonies exploding in the sky
With you, I'm alive
Like all the missing pieces of my heart, they finally collide

So stop time right here in the moonlight
'Cause I don't ever wanna close my eyes

Without you, I feel broke
Like I'm half of a whole
Without you, I've got no hand to hold
Without you, I feel torn
Like a sail in a storm
Without you, I'm just a sad song
I'm just a sad song

With you, I fall
It's like I'm leaving all my past and silhouettes up on the wall
With you, I'm a beautiful mess
It's like we're standing hand and hand with all our fears up on the edge

So stop time right here in the moonlight
'Cause I don't ever wanna close my eyes

Without you, I feel broke
Like I'm half of a whole
Without you, I've got no hand to hold
Without you, I feel torn
Like a sail in a storm
Without you, I'm just a sad song

You're the perfect melody
The only harmony I wanna hear
You're my favorite part of me
With you standing next to me
I've got nothing to fear

Without you, I feel broke
Like I'm half of a whole
Without you, I've got no hand to hold
Without you, I feel torn
Like a sail in a storm
Without you, I'm just a sad song

Without you, I feel broke
Like I'm half of a whole
Without you, I've got no hand to hold
Without you, I feel torn
Like a sail in a storm
Without you, I'm just a sad song, I'm just a sad song

With tears flowing, Elizabeth jumped out of bed and rushed toward the door. As she turned the knob and the door opened, Jack was standing on the other side. No words were said, none were needed as Elizabeth's arms wrapped around his neck. His arms around her waist lifted her off the ground as he pulled her in tight against his body.

He held her close, feeling the pounding of her heart against his chest. He closed his eyes as he inhaled the floral bouquet of her perfume, realizing that with every breath he hungered even more for her.

"I'm sorry Jack; I'm just so sorry…" she whispered as he carried her back into the room, closing the door behind him.

He lowered her feet to the ground as his lips eagerly covered hers. "I love you. I don't want anyone but you, and I'll wait as long as you need me to." His lips captured hers again, but on this occasion, she met him with an equal desire and intensity, both of them forgetting that they were in his mother's home.

As he backed her toward the bed, he was well aware of what he'd told her only moments ago, how he'd wait for her as long as she needed him to. However, once their lips touched they easily became lost in each other and desire quickly took control.

As the back of her legs hit the mattress and she fell back onto the bed, his body went with her, falling just to the side as his hand behind her head cradled her as she hit the pillow.

He had no intention of pushing, but he was like an addict and she was his addiction, one that he truly had no desire to quit. His lips found the soft sweet spot just under her left ear. As he gently nibbled on her earlobe, he could feel her body soften as her respiration intensified.

Hearing a noise out in the hallway caused both of them to sit up, realizing that they were in his mother's home and their behavior was inappropriate.

"I'm sorry; I know what I said, and I am trying to give you the time you need, but I am so ready to be married to you."

"I want to be married to you too, Jack. I just don't want to hurt anyone in the process, especially you…"

Jack pulled her up from the bed and wrapped her in his arms. His voice was full of emotion as he explained how he felt, "I don't want to say good night to you and then leave. I want to go to bed every night with you in my arms, and wake up with your head resting on my chest each morning. But most importantly, I want you in my life, so if I have to wait for you, I'll wait."

Jack stood up and walked toward the door, "I'm going to leave, because if I stay any longer, I'm not gonna leave."

"Jack, I don't want you to leave. I feel so alone without you."

Jack walked back to the bed. He pulled the covers back as Elizabeth slipped under the bedding. He walked around to the other side and laid on top of the covers, wrapping her in his arms as he pulled her close.

Elizabeth could feel his warm breath on her skin. In that moment, everything became abundantly clear as she blurted out, "Next weekend."

"What about next weekend?"

"Let's get married next weekend…"

To be continued…

NOTE: For those who follow the Facebook fanfiction group pages, there will be a few pictures posted there.