Always Chapter 3, a when calls the heart fanfic

CHAPTER 3

Author's Note: Boy, this chapter got away from me and morphed into this epic thing! It took on a life of its own and dragged me along for the ride! ...I hope it doesn't suck. But at this point, I've worked at it so much for so long, I can't even say. It's a good thing my "episodes" don't have the time constraints that the actual WCTH ones do. I don't know how the show's writers manage it!

For Jack's birthday, the Coulters give him an electric train set. According to my very-brief research, the first toy electric train sets were produced in 1925, but we're going to pretend that happened a few years earlier. They probably were pricey when first introduced, but of course the Coulters are relatively affluent, so it seems conceivable to me.

A note about the Christmas Day fishing - honestly, this wasn't my idea. I mean, I figured Canada in December? Wouldn't it be too cold, and wouldn't the water be frozen? But in the S7 Christmas special, Nathan tells Elizabeth that's his Christmas tradition with Allie. Sooo, I guess in WCTH-world, *shrugs* what do I know? I tried to include as many callbacks to that Christmas special (our last!) as I could... so voila ... Canadian lakes are magically fishable in December! (Plus, I know NOTHING about fishing).

A note about the engagement ring – of course, I'm sure we all have ideas of the most beautiful ring and what would be most fitting for Nathan to have picked for Elizabeth, so feel free to picture as you wish. In case anyone wonders what I envision – in general, something ENTIRELY unlike the gaudy huge diamond solitaire that Lucas gave her that communicated nothing except wealth and status. After doing some research and thinking, I picture a subtle ring, probably a main stone other than diamond. Given their history as engagement stones predating diamonds as well as their symbolism (faithfulness), I'm partial to a sapphire ring. What do you think?

Also, Elizabeth's book wagon makes its first reappearance here since Season 9. At the time, the show didn't tell us if Elizabeth told Nathan about her plan, but for this story's purposes, assume that she did. As close friends, it makes sense she would have shared her idea with him at the time, as she was so excited. It always struck me as weird that we never heard about it again.

Last but NOT least - A HUGE shout-out to Tracy Higgins, a fellow Heartie, who had the brilliant idea for the conversation that appears in this chapter between Allie and Jack about their parents. Thank you sooo much, Tracy, for your beautiful idea and for letting me borrow it here!

December 1921

For weeks now, Nathan has been hard at work on Elizabeth's Christmas gift, chipping away at the project in the early mornings from daybreak until time to walk her and their children to school as well as whenever else he can steal away with the least chance of being missed. Due to the gift's size, Lee offers the mill as a place to hide it, one of the few places in Hope Valley where Elizabeth never goes. Of course, she knows Nathan's up to something because she reads him too easily, but she's making no progress on discovering exactly what it is. He's glad he let Allie in on the secret because, unsurprisingly, she's been an effective ally at keeping a curious Elizabeth off his trail. On the few occasions when Elizabeth begins looking for him while he's at the mill, Allie is on the job, ready with a believable excuse or distracting diversion.

Seeing Joseph come out of the café one morning, Nathan stops him. "Hi, Joseph! Have you had a chance to finish those doors?"

"They just need one more coat of varnish and the knobs installed. I'll get that done today."

"Sounds great! If you give them to Lee, he can take them to the mill. I'll be up there after lunch to finish painting."

Joseph smiles approvingly. "You've been working very hard on this, which makes it the best kind of gift. Elizabeth's going to love it, even more so because you've invested yourself into it."

Grateful for the encouragement, Nathan returns the smile. "Thanks, Joseph. I hope so. One thing's for sure – it'll be a relief not to have to worry about hiding something this size anymore." The two share a chuckle. "And thanks again so much for all your help – I couldn't have done this without your skills and guidance."

"You're more than welcome. Y'know, I'm blessed to pastor full-time, but I surely do appreciate opportunities like this to keep my woodworking skills from getting too rusty."

"I'd say there's no chance of that!" They both chuckle.

"You have a good day, Nathan!"

"You too, Joseph."

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The day after the first big snowfall of the season, Elizabeth has an unusually hard time keeping her students engaged with their lessons, so anxious are they to get back outdoors to play in the snow. That afternoon, she eventually concedes defeat, cutting her geography lesson a little short and announcing, "Okay, I understand there is a big wonderful world of white out there you all can't wait to make the most of, so we'll dismiss a little early today." All the students cheer before she quiets them for a final announcement. "Choir students, our Christmas Eve performance is right around the corner! Don't forget we have practice in the morning before school, so please be here thirty minutes early."

With a ring of her bell, students bolt from their seats and charge outside, their exuberant shouts reverberating through the air. Within minutes, snowballs are flying while others run to grab anything they can use as a sled before hurrying to Parker's Hill, the best sledding spot in the valley just at the edge of town at the foot of the mountains. Elizabeth tidies up her classroom before following the children out, calling Little Jack away from where he and some other younger students have flopped on the ground, making snow angels. "Aww, Momma, I wanna play in the snow!" Jack pleads.

Before Elizabeth can respond, Allie, having just said goodbye to Angela, overhears Jack and offers, "Mrs. Thornton, I can watch Jack. Angela and I were going to build a snowman, but her mom needs her, so I'd love to have Jack help me."

"Oh boy, Momma – can I?"

"Yes, you may," Elizabeth tells him. To Allie, she adds, "Thank you, Allie. That's very sweet, and he'll have much more fun with you than he would running errands with me."

The three walk together to the crossroads. "So Allie," Elizabeth asks, "Are you and Angela excited for your duet at the Christmas Eve service?"

Allie inhales shakily. "I don't know, Mrs. Thornton." Clearly worried, she admits, "We're both pretty nervous about singing in front of that many people by ourselves."

"Oh, you shouldn't be," Elizabeth rushes to reassure her. "You two both have such beautiful voices! And you're such strong singers after all your practicing together. Besides, you've both performed in front of audiences with the adult choir." Winking, she adds, "You even sang in front of the former governor last year. Surely, your friends and neighbors who know and love you aren't as intimidating as that!"

Slightly consoled but still not convinced, Allie concedes, "I guess you're right. …But it's hard to remember that when it comes time to actually perform."

"Hmm," Elizabeth pretends to think about it, "Well then, when you're up there and feel nervous at the last minute, just remember I'm right there, and your dad will be front and center in the audience, so you can focus on us. You know we're cheering for you no matter what. And Jack will be up there with you too." Turning to address her son, she asks, "You'll clap for Allie and Angela, won't you Jack?"

"Yes!" He shouts enthusiastically. "I'll clap loud for you, Allie!"

Warmed by the realization of how much support she really does have now, Allie feels lighter. Laughing, she replies, "Thank you, Jack!"

Parting ways at the corner, Elizabeth heads to the Mercantile while Allie and Jack continue down the road in front of the row houses. "Let's build our snowman in the field in front of your house so you can look out your window and see him later," she suggests.

"Good idea, Allie!"

She shows him how to gather snow into big piles to start the body. "Be sure to keep packing it hard like this," she demonstrates, slapping the snow-body as it begins to take shape. "That makes it sturdier so it lasts longer." The little boy watches carefully and mimics everything she does as best he can. While they work, she asks, "So, Jack, have you and your mom gotten a tree yet?"

"Not yet," he says sadly.

"Well, Dad's taking me to the woods to find one Friday after school. You could come with us. Your mom would probably like to come too," Allie suggests kindly.

Instead of showing the enthusiasm for her idea that she hoped, Jack still looks down, like he didn't hear her. Sensing there's more to his sudden mood than the lack of a tree, she gently asks, "Jack, what's wrong?"

He's silent another moment before sharing, "Allie, Momma says that my daddy's in heaven."

Allie's face falls and tears well in her eyes. She puts her arm around him. "Yes, I know. I'm sorry." After a beat, she continues, "Y'know, my mom is in heaven too."

At this, Jack looks up at her with interest, thoughts whirling behind his bright eyes. Suddenly, his face lights up, and he offers, "Hey! I know – you can share my mom."

Ally smiles, adding, "And you can share my dad."

Their smiles widen until they're beaming at each other.

Eyes twinkling, Allie leans down, as if sharing a secret, and whispers to him, "Guess what, Jack?"

"What?" he whisper-echoes excitedly.

"If my dad marries your mom, then he would be your dad too… officially… forever."

Catching on, he eagerly adds, "And my mom would be your mom officially forever."

"That's right," she affirms, happily. "And you know what else?"

"What?" he repeats again, transfixed.

"You and I would beee…" she pauses dramatically… "brother and sister…officially…forever!"

Unable to contain himself, Jack jumps up & down. "I want that! I want that!"

Laughing, Allie agrees, "So do I, Jack." Winking at him, she leans in again, "Don't worry – I'm working on it."

As they're putting the final touches on their snowman a short time later, Bill walks up. "Well, hello, Allie. Hi, Jack-a-roo!"

"Hi, Judge Avery."

"Hi, Uncle Bill!"

"That's some snowman you two have built! I especially like the ears – you don't see good snowman ears very often." To himself, he thinks, I don't think I've ever seen ears on a snowman before.

"Thank you."

"Thanks, Uncle Bill!"

"Say, Jack, I got you a Christmas present."

"But it's not Christmas yet."

"I know, Jack-a-roo, but with this big beautiful snow we've got, I think we'll make an exception just this once. Close your eyes," Bill instructs.

Jack obeys, eager for a present. Bill walks over to the side of Elizabeth's house and reaches behind a big barrel to retrieve what he'd hidden there earlier: a new sled, the sturdy wooden kind with steel runners. Holding it out, Bill directs Jack, "Now, open your eyes."

Bill and Allie grin as Jack's eyes fly open, and he focuses on the sled in Bill's hands. He wriggles happily as he admires the sled's beauty - the smoothly polished wooden slats and the glossy red painted metal. "Wow, a sled of my very own! Thank you, thank you!"

"You're welcome, Jack."

Happily accepting the sled, Jack turns to Allie and offers, "We can share, Allie. You wanna go try it out now?"

Looking torn, casting a glance down the road, Allie responds, "That sounds like fun, Jack. But we'd need to go tell your mom before – "

Bill interrupts, "It's okay, Allie." He assures, "I'll find Elizabeth and tell her you two went sledding. Go have fun."

"Thanks, Judge Avery!"

"Yeah, thanks, Uncle Bill!" With that, the two scamper away.

Bill smiles at their retreating figures until something occurs to him. Face dropping, he mumbles to himself, "Probably ought to tell her about the sled too. …I knew there was something I forgot."

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As December draws to a close, the Christmas season returns to Hope Valley and with it, some treasured traditions like the Wishing Tree. Lee and Bill oversee its setup in the center of town. Elizabeth discusses the tree with her class, reminding them how it works, providing them time to decorate an ornament and write their wish on the back. While the students are working, Allie surreptitiously gets up and stops to lean over Jack where he's sitting, whispering excitedly. Noticing the pair whispering and motioning to their ornaments, Elizabeth approaches. "Hey, you two, what are you conspiring about over here?"

Startled, they jump before straightening. Appearing more nervous than the occasion should warrant, Allie and Jack exchange a wide-eyed look before Allie smiles weakly and claims unconvincingly, "Nothing much, Mrs. Thornton. Jack just wanted a little help on his ornament design." With a last expressive glance at Jack, Allie resumes her seat. Confused and slightly suspicious, Elizabeth shifts a narrow-eyed look between the two before her gaze lands on her son. She tries again. "Jack?"

"What she said, Momma. She's just helping me." Jack adopts an innocent smile, looking up at her.

Shaking her head, Elizabeth gives up and walks away. That afternoon, instead of dismissing class from school, Elizabeth escorts students to the tree so they can hang their ornaments before releasing them for the day. Spotting Allie and Jack standing back with their heads bent together, Elizabeth again wonders what the two are up to. Approaching, she asks, "Aren't you two going to hang your ornaments?"

"We're not quite finished, Mrs. Thornton. I'll stay with Jack and help him, if that's okay."

"Okay," Elizabeth says, slowly, still looking askance at the pair. "I need to speak with Mrs. Coulter, so why don't you head to the fountain shop when you're done, and I'll meet you there." The children readily agree.

After Elizabeth and the other children are gone, when no one is around the tree, Allie and Jack come up to it. Nathan, walking on the boardwalk across the street, spots them approaching it, looking at something Allie is holding, glancing around nervously, and whispering to each other intently. He watches as Allie says something to Jack, who nods enthusiastically. At Jack's response, she straightens and stretches up as high as she can reach before hanging an ornament on a sturdy branch above her head. Jack claps his hands. The pair then beam at each other before turning and walking away together.

Curiosity piqued at their mysterious collaboration and covert efforts, Nathan waits as they make their way across the street into the fountain shop. Once the coast is clear, he strides quickly to the tree. Spotting the ornament his daughter just hung, he takes it down. He already has her Christmas gift, a new charm for her bracelet, but wonders what one thing she and Jack both agreed on asking for. Whatever he thought it might be, he was unprepared for what they'd written. "We wish all 4 of us could be a family forever," signed "Allie & Jack."

Stunned, Nathan studies the words. Of course, he knows the two have grown close and get along extremely well, almost never squabbling as boys and girls their ages usually do. But he hasn't realized until now that they already consider each other family. And they're clearly not just comfortable with the idea, but they want it to be true badly enough as to make that their sole combined Christmas wish!

Wondering how the children might handle such a transition has weighed on him, so he feels a tremendous sense of relief, learning he has been worrying for nothing. Smiling to himself, he thinks he should've known that Allie would be way ahead of him, as that seems to be happening with disturbingly increasing frequency as she matures. Emotions whirling, Nathan finally realizes he's still just standing there and hurries back to the jail, ornament in hand.

Shortly after, Elizabeth meets the children at the fountain shop. After paying Mei for their ice cream, she turns to Jack, "So, honey bear, did you finally get your ornament done and hung on the tree?"

Exchanging a smile with Allie, he answers, "Yes, Momma."

She turns to the teen. "Allie, Jack and I still have a little Christmas shopping to do. Are you alright heading home by yourself?"

"No problem, Mrs. Thornton. I'll see you later. Bye, Jack."

"Bye, Allie! Don't forget you said you'd come get me to help you walk Scout later."

"I won't forget, I promise!" With a parting smile, Allie walks out.

Turning to her son, Elizabeth grins. "Sooo, … have you been thinking of what you want to get Allie for Christmas?"

Nodding enthusiastically, Jack jumps from his stool. "Uh-huh! She has such long, nice hair and always braids it and stuff, so I want to get her something pretty for her hair."

Gasping in delight, Elizabeth beams at him. "That's a great idea! Let's go see what we can find!" She holds out her hand for him to take, and the two walk out, hand-in-hand.

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In light of his earlier discovery, Nathan decides it's past time to have the conversation with his daughter that he's been considering for a while. He goes home earlier than usual to wait for her. Not long after, Allie walks in.

"Hi, Dad. You're home early, aren't you?" Allie greets him.

"Hi, kiddo. Yeah, a little. I actually have something important to talk to you about." He pats the spot beside him on the sofa.

"Oh? Like what?" Allie asks as she sits.

Nathan regards her fondly in silence for a beat before pulling out the ornament she'd hung and holding it up. He perks his eyebrows with an unspoken question.

Looking a little surprised, guilty, and pleased all at once, Allie quietly remarks, "That was faster than I expected."

"Well, to be honest, I happened to see you two hanging it. …I'm assuming this was your idea." He pauses, weighing where to start. "It's alright, kiddo, but I need to understand what you were thinking. …And what if Elizabeth or someone else had found it before me? Didn't you think that might embarrass her?"

"Well, she might have at least brought it up to you, and that could still get the ball rolling."

"So, is that what you were trying to accomplish? To force the prospect of Elizabeth and me marrying into the open?" She slowly nods, unsure how he's taking her latest interference. He sighs, "Allie, I'm very happy to know you feel this way, but I think a private conversation would have been a better idea. I appreciate your enthusiasm and that you had good intentions, but can you see how maybe hanging this," he emphasizes, motioning to the ornament in his hand, "in public might not be the best way to go about what you were trying to accomplish?"

"I understand," Allie admits, chastened, before rallying to insist, "But I did think about it, and I thought the best way to show you how serious we are about this, how much this means, was to make it our one big Christmas wish. And when I talked with Jack about the idea, I kept asking him to make sure he wouldn't rather use his wish for a toy or something. …But he feels the same way I do. Neither of us wants anything for Christmas as much as we want all four of us to be a real family."

"And you think Jack really understands what that means?" Nathan questions.

She insists, "Yes, I think he really does." She pauses, sighing, then elaborates, "A couple days ago, Jack and I were talking. He told me his daddy's in heaven, and I could tell how sad he was." Allie then recounts for her dad the rest of the conversation she and Jack had about sharing their living parent with the other and how they could become a family officially. By the end, Nathan's eyes are suspiciously bright. Allie emphasizes, "Dad, Jack and I want to be brother and sister. And he needs you to be his dad, and I want Mrs. Thornton to be my mom."

"Oh, Allie, I know it's been hard on you, losing your mom so early and it just being the two of us so long."

"No, Dad, you've been amazing! …I love you, and you're the best parent anyone could ask for…" she pauses before adding, "But I also love Mrs. Thornton and Jack, and I want to share you with them. I can't explain it, but there's always been something inside me that feels like they're supposed to be my family too. And I see how much happier you are now that the two of you are together." After a beat, she asks, slightly frustrated, "Don't you want us all to be a family?"

"Of course I do!" He glances away as if steeling his resolve before facing her again. "Actually, it's been a while now, long before you and Jack hung this wish, that I've been wanting to talk to you about proposing to Elizabeth."

"Then, what are you waiting for?"

"Well… mostly for this," he says, motioning between him and her. When Allie looks confused, he explains, "Allie, of course I want very much to marry Elizabeth… more than anything. But it's not just about her and me – this decision affects you and Jack just as much, and until this afternoon, I didn't know for sure how you felt about the idea. I would never take a step like proposing without discussing it with you and knowing it's what you really want too."

Allie beams, eyes flashing in excited remembrance. "That's what Mrs. Thornton told me a long time ago."

Taken aback, Nathan stammers, "W-wait, what?" Incredulous, he asks, "You talked to Elizabeth about me proposing? When?"

Matter-of-factually, Allie answers with a breezy wave of her hand. "Oh, yeah, a couple years ago when I asked for her help finding you someone."

Nathan's eyes bulge comically. "You what?! What did she say?!"

"Never mind that now." Allie brushes it off as unimportant before wriggling with uncontainable enthusiasm, "I'm so excited! Do you have a ring?"

Still reeling from finding out Allie secretly discussed his love life (or lack thereof) with Elizabeth years ago, Nathan shakes his head to clear it before refocusing on her question. "Um, yes. I've had it for a long time actually."

"Sooo… now that you know how Jack and I feel, will you finally ask her?" Allie impatiently demands.

"Finally?! We've only been dating a few months!" he protests.

"Yes, finally! Maybe you've only officially dated a few months, but it's been a LONG time in the making. …Everyone can see it, Dad! Not to mention, frankly, you're not getting any younger."

He scoffs – no one can deliver unvarnished truth as bluntly as a child, particularly a teenager. Sarcastically, he replies. "Thanks, kiddo."

As they regard each other, it slowly sinks in to both of them: this – a proposal, a blending of their families – is really happening. Their smiles grow wider until she throws herself at him, hugging him in delight and squealing like the young girl she still is, "Ooh, I can't wait!"

"Okay, take it easy. I still have to figure out how and when to ask her. So can you play it cool for awhile and keep this a secret?"

Sighing dramatically, she begrudgingly agrees. "Yes, I can. …But hurry up!" Despite his belief otherwise, she remains certain that he needs her help. "Y'know," she generously offers, "I can help you with a plan."

"Of that I have no doubt!" He smiles ruefully at her. "How about I let you know?"

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On Friday afternoon, Elizabeth tells her students she'll miss them the next two weeks, as they have time off for the holidays. She reminds them, "Don't forget the Christmas Eve concert is right here next Tuesday night at 7pm! Those of you who are singing, we have our final practice on Monday at 1pm, and we'll finish setting up then also. To everyone? Merry Christmas!" All the students echo, "Merry Christmas, Mrs. Thornton," before she rings the bell in dismissal.

Allie and Jack wait for her, excited for the promised Christmas tree hunt and comparing views on exactly what the ideal tree should look like. Properly bundled against a wintry trek into the woods, the trio set off from the schoolhouse with Little Jack in the middle, holding his mother and Allie's hands. They meet Nathan in the stables and exchange greetings while he finishes readying the wagon and draft horse.

"It was nice of Faith to loan her wagon. It'll come in handy for hauling the trees, but it might be a little crowded with all four of us," Elizabeth observes. "Why don't I saddle Sergeant and ride alongside?"

Wanting them to ride together, however, Allie rejects the idea. "It'll be fine, Mrs. Thornton. Jack and I'll ride in the back, won't we?"

"Yay!" Jack enthuses.

"And on the way home," Allie continues, "Jack can sit on my lap." Turning to him, she asks, "You're not too big yet, are you?"

"No, I'm not too big!" He echoes, easily agreeing as usual with anything Allie decrees.

"Come on, then," the young girl encourages. Allie helps Jack climb into the back before following him up.

Shifting his gaze from his daughter to Elizabeth, Nathan smiles wryly. Shaking his head, he asks, "So is 15 the peak for thinking she knows best, or do I have more to look forward to?"

Elizabeth tries to look sympathetic, but her smirk breaking through ruins the attempt. Eyes twinkling in devious anticipation, she squeezes his arm and playfully cautions, "Ooh, I think you'd better brace yourself, Constable." Sharing a laugh, he helps her into the box seat, then jumps up after her.

Turning around, Nathan asks, "Everybody ready?"

Allie grins, "Yes!"

Jack, wriggly as usual, shouts, "Let's go!"

On the way, Nathan and Elizabeth mostly listen to the children's noisy chatter behind them as the pair comment on everything they're seeing. There is a sense of peace, of rightness in this moment.

Leaning into him affectionately, she eventually remarks, "It's a beautiful day, isn't it?"

Turning his head to regard her tenderly, Nathan adds, "And there's nowhere else I'd rather be."

She returns his look a long moment before a mischievous glint sparks again in her eyes, and she warns with a chuckle, "Let's see if you still feel that way after these two endlessly debate the best trees in the forest for the next who knows how long," indicating their children with a fond tilt of her head.

He laughs, then adopting a stoic expression, he sighs dramatically, "If that's what it takes, I'm prepared to endure."

Nodding approvingly, Elizabeth teases, "That's extremely brave of you, Constable."

"Why, thank you," he murmurs back quietly before sneaking a kiss.

Soon, they arrive near the area Elizabeth first showed Nathan and Allie years ago. The group leaves the wagon to head deeper in on foot. Traipsing ahead of the adults, the children make a noisy pair as they call out to each other, darting between the pines, inspecting each possibility before rejecting it for one reason or another. Nathan and Elizabeth share an amused look, watching how intensely the children deliberate the choice, as if the entire success or failure of Christmas hangs upon finding the right tree. "Y'know," Elizabeth begins hesitantly, "The way they're approaching this, picking one tree will be hard, but picking one for each of our houses?" Nathan's eyes widen comically in feigned horror.

Before her dad can muster a reply, however, Allie suggests, "Mrs. Thornton, why don't we just get one tree and put it up in your house?"

Surprised and skeptical, Elizabeth questions, "Are you sure, Allie? …We can get one both places and help decorate each other's trees," she insists, not wanting the teen to miss having a tree in her house too.

"I'm positive. We'll be spending a bunch of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day together anyway, so a tree at Dad's and my place would just be there by itself. Jack and I would rather share and combine our decorations on one tree, wouldn't we?" she finishes, turning to him.

"For sure!" he exclaims loudly.

Allie looks between her dad and her teacher. With her goal always in mind, she adds meaningfully, "Jack needs a tree more than I need a separate one at Dad's. What really matters to me is that we're together."

Glancing quickly at Nathan and then away again, Elizabeth, slightly flustered, manages, "That's …wisely said, Allie, and very mature of you."

Nathan glances down to hide his smirk at Allie's skillful maneuvering. Huffing out a brief chuckle, he shakes his head slightly in fond resignation, left with no choice as usual but to marvel at his daughter's persistence and single-mindedness.

"How 'bout this one, Allie?" Jack shouts a few feet away, recalling the girl to their hunt.

"Hmmm," she muses speculatively, "It's not bad …but isn't it kinda skinny, Jack?"

He looks again. "Yeah, you're right."

"Hey, what about this one?"

"It's too fat. ….I like this one," Jack tells her, pointing at a different tree next to him.

Walking around it, Allie points out, "But look at that spot where there aren't any branches."'

Checking, Jack agrees, "Oh, yeah, that's no good." He moves on. "This one looks pretty!"

Allie agrees, "Yeah, it's the right shape and everything… but it needs to be taller. We want one taller than Dad, don't we?"

"Yeah, we want one super-duper tall!"

Half an hour of this back-and-forth with no sign of resolution finally prompts Nathan to interrupt their ongoing debate. "Hey, you've both seen plenty of nice trees already. Won't one of them do?"

Looking aghast, Allie impatiently insists, "Dad, it can't just be 'nice!' It has to be perfect."

"Yeah, perfect!" Jack echoes.

Curious at how passionate Allie seems about this, Elizabeth gently asks, "Honey, why is getting the perfect tree so important to you?"

Allie looks at Jack, then back at the adults. "It's the first tree that will be ours together, all four of us."

Moved, Nathan and Elizabeth glance at each other with small smiles. Sighing, he motions the group forward, "Well, let's keep looking then!"

Another while passes before suddenly, Jack perks up as something ahead to the left catches his eye through the other trees. With wonder in his voice, he points and asks, "Allie, how 'bout that one?"

Following his finger, Allie sees it too. With renewed energy, she runs to get a closer look as Jack follows, trying to keep up. Inspecting all around it, checking its height, she clasps her hands together and gasps excitedly, "Jack, you found it! It's perfect!"

Wearing huge smiles, the two hug as the adults approach at a slower pace, looking equally impressed and relieved.

"Well, you did it – you two managed to find the best tree in the entire forest." Nathan congratulates them.

Beaming down at Jack with an arm still around his shoulders, Allie confidently states, "We make a good team."

"Yeah – a good team!" Jack proudly repeats.

After cutting down the tree, Nathan hauls it back to the wagon, the others trudging behind. Thankfully, the children's search ended up leading them more or less in a circle, so they aren't far at all from where the wagon waits.

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Back at Elizabeth's house, she tries guiding Nathan as he positions the tree, but the children's confusing, sometimes contradictory "help" makes the process so chaotic that Nathan gives up, laughing. Then they work together hanging ornaments, mingling the Grant and Thornton collections. Allie and Jack regale each other with stories of their favorite ones.

While the children are thus occupied, Elizabeth stretches to place an ornament above her head only to sense Nathan behind her. In a move from their memory, he takes it from her to help secure it in place. Coming down from her tiptoes, Elizabeth slowly turns. Nathan doesn't step back, which places her practically in his arms with their faces quite close. Breaths mingling, he gazes down, and she gazes up, lost in the other's eyes. Nathan murmurs, "This feels familiar."

A little breathless, Elizabeth replies just as quietly, "I guess it does."

Closing the distance, he kisses her sweetly but well. Pulling back the smallest amount, Nathan waits for her eyes to find his again before quietly revealing, "I wanted to do that the first time we found ourselves like this."

'Oh, really?"

"Mmm-hmm. …And maybe I should have. No telling how different things might have been."

Elizabeth's eyes widen. Torn between amusement and disbelief at his sudden and uncharacteristic overconfidence, she slants an eyebrow, tilts her head, and crosses her arms. With a heavy dose of skepticism, she asks, "You're telling me you could have changed our entire story that first Christmas just by kissing me? …Awfully sure of yourself, aren't you, Constable?"

"Of myself? No. …Of us together? Completely." After a beat, he continues, "…Elizabeth, a connection like ours is that rare and that powerful." Left speechless by that declaration, she decides the only fitting response is to kiss him back. She does so until a youthful sound of disgust breaks the moment.

"Eeww!" Jack looks as repulsed as only a little boy can in the face of affectionate displays.

"No, it's okay, Jack," Allie hurries to assure him and persuade his thinking. "Mr. and Mrs. Coulter kiss, right?"

""Yes," Jack says slowly, scrunching his brows in thought, "But they're married."

Arching her brows and staring at him with meaningful intensity, Allie waits.

"Oooh," Jack says suddenly.

Allie nods, encouragingly.

Turning back to the adults, Jack generously decrees, "Okay, you can kiss." Listening uncomfortably as their children discuss the matter, both adults are slightly red-faced and have trouble deciding where to look. Equal parts embarrassed and amused, Nathan clears his throat awkwardly and eventually replies, "Um, thank you, Jack."

"You're welcome!" Jack replies happily, blithely unaware of any subtext.

By the time they finish decorating the tree, everyone is pretty tired. They share a simple meal of reheated soup and cold sandwiches. Noticing how Jack is about to fall out of his seat, Nathan offers to carry him to bed.

"That would be helpful, thank you!" To Jack, who barely stirs in Nathan's arms, she says, "I'll be right up, honey, to say goodnight."

Allie says goodnight herself and heads out. When Nathan's back downstairs, Elizabeth walks him to the door and remarks, "Thank you for today, especially lugging that huge tree! You're a good sport – you made the kids extremely happy."

"I enjoyed it." At her skeptical look, he confesses, "Well, I'd be okay with them being a little less picky, but seeing them happy, being with my favorite people – it's worth it. Always." He drops a final kiss on her lips. "See you tomorrow… Goodnight."

"Goodnight."

With a parting smile, Nathan follows his daughter out the door.

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The next morning, a Saturday, Allie stops by Elizabeth's house while out walking Scout, who lies down obediently on the porch to wait.

"Come on in," Elizabeth calls out when she hears the knock.

"Good morning!" They greet each other.

Belatedly, Jack jumps up from amid a mess of toys he's been playing with on the floor. "Hi, Allie!"

"Hi, Jack!"

Elizabeth wonders, "Where's your dad?"

"Oh, he had something he had to do first, but he said he'd be by when he's done. And he wanted me to ask if you'd like to get lunch with us later at the café?"

Sighing appreciatively, Elizabeth grins, "That sounds amazing! Christmas Eve is only three days away, and there is so much to do. So any meal I don't have to fix right now sounds pretty good!"

Allie kindly offers, "Can I help with anything?"

Elizabeth begins to decline. "Not that I know –" Cutting herself off as something occurs to her, she asks instead, "Actually, …I need to bake and decorate Jack's birthday cake. I was planning to do it after our rehearsal on Monday. Would you want to lend a hand? I'd love your company and your help."

"Sure! I've never made a birthday cake, so it sounds like fun."

"Allie, come play with me!" Jack inserts himself in the conversation.

"Actually, Jack, that's what I came by for." Turning to Elizabeth, she asks, "Is it okay if Jack comes outside to play with me and Scout?"

"Oh boy! Can I, Momma? Please?"

"Hang on, isn't there something you need to do first?" his mother prompts with a meaningful look at his toys on the floor.

"Oh," he answers glumly. "I need to put my toys away?"

"That's right, young man. Then you can go with Allie and Scout."

"I'll be outside waiting, Jack!"

With unusual efficiency, Jack picks up his scattered stuff, then starts out the door.

"Don't forget your coat!" His mother calls out.

The two hours that follow are highly productive for Elizabeth, as she finds herself alone in a quiet house to get things done. She finishes wrapping gifts for Jack's birthday and for Christmas. And she gives the house a thorough cleaning in advance of Jack's party that she'll be hosting on Tuesday. As she's finishing, she realizes she can hear all sorts of loud shrieks, shouts, and laughter from outside.

Looking out her front window, she smiles at the scene before her. Nathan, having obviously arrived sometime since she's been busy, is in the middle of a raucous snowball fight with the children. Giggling to herself, she notes that he's so enthusiastically engaged that he looks just like an oversized child himself. Spying on the trio playing together reminds her of a similar moment last year when she watched him playing tag with Allie and Jack in the park. Now, as then, the rightness of the scene lifts and fills her heart until she feels as though it may burst. Unlike then, however, she no longer has to battle any reservation or guilt. Instead, she decides with a smile, she's going to join them – the little family she began picturing last year that's finally becoming real.

Donning her coat and gloves, she walks outside and down the steps just in time for a large snowball to streak so close in front of her face that she feels the frosty spray on her nose as it whizzes by.

Wide-eyed, the originator of that errant snowball confesses instantly. Torn between humor and horror, Nathan stammers, fighting a smile, "E-Elizabeth, I'm sorry!"

Adopting her best stern schoolteacher attitude, arms crossed, head tilted, Elizabeth demands, "What was that, Constable Grant? Do you always launch random attacks at innocent bystanders?"

Straightening, he defends himself, "That snowball was aimed perfectly. You walked right in the way!"

"Oh, is that so, Constable? Well then," she declares, strolling to a snowy mound nearby and scooping a big handful that she begins molding tightly between her palms as he watches nervously. "It's not that this snowball is aimed at you." She pauses innocently before suddenly winding up and launching it at his chest, fast as lightning. "You're just standing in the way!" She finishes on a laugh as she runs away toward the children.

Laughing in shock, Nathan chases after her. Soon all four are running around, dodging and tossing snowy missiles as fast as they can, shouting and laughing, as Scout bounds around them, barking in support.

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CHRISTMAS EVE

The big day finally arrives. Even his favorite breakfast of chocolate chip pancakes barely entices Jack to keep still long enough to eat, so excited is he for the day ahead.

"How much longer is it now, Momma?"

"About ten minutes less than the last time you asked, honey bear," his mother responds in fond exasperation.

Soon, Allie arrives, to Jack's delight and Elizabeth's relief.

After exchanging greetings, Elizabeth tells her, "You and Angela sounded great at rehearsal yesterday. How are you feeling?"

Scrunching her face a little, she answers, "Alright, I guess. I mean, I think we're ready."

"I do too, and I know you'll be great."

Allie smiles appreciatively. "Thanks, Mrs. Thornton."

"Well, thank you, Allie, for helping with Jack's cake yesterday. You have a natural flair for cake decorating! Jack's going to love it," Elizabeth asserts, referring to the horses Allie piped around the cake.

"I hope so. I had fun doing it!"

"By the way, where's your dad?" Elizabeth asks, wondering again at him mysteriously disappearing for hours at a time the last few weeks.

"Oh, um, he's finishing something for someone." At Elizabeth's persistently questioning expression, she elaborates, "Y'know this town – someone always needs a hand." Breaking eye contact, Allie redirects the conversation with a clap of her hands. "Anyway, I wondered if Jack would like to help me walk Scout."

"Yay! Scout!"

"Thank you, Allie," she gratefully replies. "That will actually give me a chance to finish getting everything ready for later."

"No problem, Mrs. Thornton." Motioning to Jack, who jumps up from the table, Allie urges, "C'mon, Jack – wait till you see the new trick Scout's learning!"

As the children exit, Rosemary bustles in, carrying a large dish. She stops the pair for a hello and a quick hug "for the birthday boy" before they rush outdoors.

Once they're gone, Rosemary joins Elizabeth in the kitchen, singing out a greeting as she puts her load down, "Hello, hello! How are you this beautiful day?"

"Hi. …To be honest, I'm feeling a little panicked about being ready in time."

"Now, don't you worry! Lee has Goldie, so I'm all yours the next few hours. We'll have everything done in plenty of time!"

"Thank you!" Elizabeth breathes out, effusively.

Dismissing the thanks with a flutter of her hands, Rosemary shows her what she brought. Then the two get to work – they finish decorating the house, setting the table, and preparing the food for later. Sure enough, they're done in plenty of time for them to part ways and get dressed. Allie drops off Jack, a little calmer after burning a lot of excess energy.

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Come early evening, all the people who love Jack most gather at Elizabeth's house to celebrate him turning six: Bill, Lee and Rosemary with little Goldie, and Nathan and Allie. They share a meal and sing him "Happy Birthday" before he blows out the candles on his cake. After everyone enjoys a slice, Jack opens his presents. There are new toys from Elizabeth and his Thatcher relatives back in Hamilton. From Bill, he receives a cowboy outfit complete with plaid shirt, tan vest, boots, and a pop gun. "Wow, thank you, Uncle Bill!"

"You're welcome, Jack! You can wear that the next time we take Pal out."

Allie gives him a yo-yo with promises to teach him how to use it and do all kinds of tricks. Nathan gives him a baseball and a glove in his size, promising to teach him all about the game. "You'll be throwing and catching like a big-league player in no time."

The Coulters gift him an electric train. Standing by Elizabeth, Rosemary tells her friend, "We first thought of getting him a train set years ago, but of course, he would've been too young to really enjoy it then, and now I'm so glad we waited – this new electric version is just the cutting edge of modern toys and so much more fun!"

"Wow!" Jack enthuses. "Thank you, Aunt Rosemary and Uncle Lee!"

"Yes, thank you," Elizabeth repeats. "You guys are far too generous!"

The excited little boy thanks everyone again and again. "Look at all I got, Momma!"

"I see, sweetie – you are one very lucky young man to have such generous family and friends."

The adults all help Elizabeth straighten up. Then the Coulters head back next door and Bill heads out, all promising to be at the school later. Allie asks Nathan, "Dad, is it alright if I go ahead? Angela and I want to meet up before anyone else gets there."

"Of course, kiddo. I'll see you there. You're going to do great!"

Nathan waits for Elizabeth and Jack, then escorts them to school and takes a seat in the audience while she readies her gathering students to perform.

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The concert is a huge success. From Emily to Jack, oldest to youngest, the children sing their hearts out, doing credit to a selection of beloved Christmas carols. Angela and Allie's duet, The First Noel, is beautiful and receives enthusiastic applause.

Afterward, everyone mingles, congratulating Elizabeth and her young singers and exchanging well wishes. As the crowd begins to thin, Allie catches Jack's eye, nodding meaningfully. He nods back.

Feigning exhaustion, Jack comes to Elizabeth, leaning on her legs. "Momma, I'm tired!"

"Oh, honey bear," she consoles, wrapping an arm around his shoulders. "I'm not surprised. You've had a very long, very big day. If you can just hang on a few more minutes, we can head home."

"Mrs. Thornton," Allie pipes up, "I can go on with Jack to your house now and help him to bed. I don't mind waiting there with him awhile. That way, you can take your time here. After all, I bet you haven't had a moment to relax all day." As Nathan walks up, Allie adds slyly, "And I'm sure Dad won't mind walking you home, right Dad?"

Glancing from his daughter to Elizabeth, he shrugs in easy agreement. "It's a nice night for a stroll."

Despite being a little curious at Allie's eagerness, Elizabeth likes the idea well enough to let it go. "It is, isn't it?" To Allie, she ventures, "Well, if you're sure you don't mind…" Seeing the girl's nod in confirmation, Elizabeth peers down at Jack. Hugging him, she asks, "Is that okay? I'll come check on you as soon as I get there."

"Sure, Momma. Bye-bye!"

With that, the teen takes Jack's hand, and the pair start out. Stopping at the doorway, Allie turns back. Noting Elizabeth is already distracted, conversing with other parents, she catches her dad's eye, gives him a huge smile, and winks. Shaking his head, he smiles back briefly before shooing her out.

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Before long, the last of the families thank Elizabeth and depart, leaving Nathan and her to lock up and begin their walk. Taking her hand, he breaks the silence. "It really is a nice night – not too cold with a clear sky full of stars. How about taking the long way around the lake?"

Smiling gently, she agrees. "That's a great idea. It was very sweet of Allie to take Jack home. It's been such a busy day that it's lovely to finally have a few quiet minutes with you."

"Well, you and the children did a wonderful job with the concert, not that I'm surprised. And all your hard work for Jack's birthday party paid off – I think he was about as happy as he could be."

Smiling ruefully, she chuckles a little. "Y'know, when he was little, it hadn't dawned on me how hectic it could become – having a child's birthday on top of Christmas. I think it gets harder every year! …Speaking of Christmas, what charm did you get Allie for her bracelet this year?"

"A guitar."

Beaming at him, Elizabeth gushes, "Oh, she'll love that! She told me you're helping her learn to play?"

"Yes, I have been a little. She's picking it right up. She's such a natural at music, she'll be better than me in no time."

Squeezing his hand, she glares teasingly at him from the corner of her eye. "I've heard she's not the only one, but someone has yet to let me hear him sing or play, despite my persistence."

Glancing down self-consciously, he huffs a brief chuckle, retorting, "Well, I think someone has unrealistic expectations that reality is bound to disappoint." Noting her continued glare, he relents slightly, " …But I guess maybe something could be arranged if it means that much to you."

"It does!" She insists.

"Alright! …Soon, I promise." Nathan takes a deep, shaky breath. "Actually, there is something else Allie wants for Christmas, she and Jack both, but I haven't been able to arrange it yet."

"Oh? ...Can I help?" she asks, puzzled.

"Actually… it pretty much depends entirely on you."

Elizabeth is surprised and even more confused. "Really? What is it?" When he doesn't respond, she glances up at him, then studies him closer. "Nathan?"

He squeezes her hand. Seemingly changing the subject, Nathan asks, "Do you know that I've never been happier in my life than I have these last few months? ...Having your love, being together with you and the kids, I've never known that kind of contentment."

Blushing a little, pleased and touched, Elizabeth squeezes his hand back and assures him, "I feel the same way."

He nods almost absently. She can tell her answer pleases him but that he still has something on his mind. After a moment, he continues, "In particular, getting to spend so many of our mornings and evenings together, before work and at the end of the day – it's great. …But I've been thinking that there's something that could be better."

Not following, she asks blankly, "What's that?"

A beat. A deep breath. Then, "If we started our mornings and ended our evenings in the same house."

Listening intently, brow furrowed, Elizabeth's eyes widen as she catches his meaning, wondering if he's really saying what she thinks he is. His eyes are glued to her reaction. They stop walking and face each other. Heart beginning to race with hope and nerves, eyes darting over his dear face, she starts, "Nathan – "

Nathan interrupts, "Elizabeth, just listen for a second." Steeling his nerves, eyes locked on the love of his life, he kneels. She gasps, tears gathering in her eyes. He takes both her hands again. "You know speeches aren't my thing, but I need to do this – " He closes his eyes and breathes in as if marshaling his thoughts, then opens his eyes, exhales roughly, and begins, a slight tremor in his voice betraying the height of his emotions.

"Elizabeth… pretty much right from the start, you changed my life… mine and Allie's. …Before you, we'd drifted from place to place." Glancing down, he shrugs self-consciously. "…There was never a reason to stay." He meets her eyes again. "When you walked in the jail that day, and I saw you for the first time, I knew you were the most beautiful woman I'd ever seen. But it was at those early conferences about Allie where I realized your inner beauty far surpasses the physical. …That's when I began falling for you. Despite my intentions, even when I fought it, …I–I had no chance. Your character and your heart are so stunningly beautiful, they blew me away. …You are the kindest, funniest, smartest, strongest, most courageous woman I've ever met. You never run from a challenge, and you don't give up. Between my past and my training, I know I can be a little cynical – " At that, she can't help lifting a brow. Seeing this, he gives a slight self-conscious grin and corrects himself, "Or sometimes very cynical. So it amazes me that after all you've been through, you still see the best in people and still find the bright side in situations. You challenge and inspire me, unlike anyone I've ever known. …Loving you and having your love in return… doing life with you… It's the greatest gift and the greatest joy I can imagine. You, Allie, and Little Jack – you're my solace, my home. …I promise to protect and cherish you every day for the rest of my life. I love you, Always. …Elizabeth Thornton, will you marry me?"

With a wide, incandescent smile lighting up her face and tears streaming down her cheeks, she nods fervently. Breathing shakily, scarcely able to believe this dream coming true, she joyfully cries, "Yes! …With all my heart – yes!"

With an answering smile as brilliant as her own, Nathan stands. Dropping her hands a moment, he pulls a box from his pocket from which he removes a ring. Taking her left hand in both of his, he slides it on her finger. Both gaze a moment at her hand before their eyes snap to each other's again. She throws herself in his embrace. As his arms tighten around her, he kisses her deeply.

Several minutes pass in this fashion before they reluctantly break apart and resume their walk. He takes her hand again as they stroll slowly, both wishing to prolong this precious moment. She holds onto his arm between them with her free hand as if needing to hold him tighter.

"Y'know," she begins teasingly, breaking the peaceful silence. "For someone who claims to be no good at speeches, I'm accumulating quite a bit of evidence to the contrary. And that just now was pretty spectacular. So maybe you're mistaken about that?"

Grinning, he shakes his head, glancing down at her. "No, I'm definitely not. Only for you could I ever string that many words together at once. Like I said, you're the exception to my rules."

"Hmm," she murmurs appreciatively, warmed by the notion that she unlocks something in him that no one else does, knowing he does the same for her.

As they approach her house, they stop near the front steps, reluctant to break the spell of their newfound understanding. Nodding toward her door, Elizabeth asks him, "I'm assuming Allie already knows you planned to propose?"

Chuckling and shaking his head, Nathan replies, "That would be an understatement."

Elizabeth's brows furrow as something dawns on her. "Wait a minute… Allie's sudden insistence on taking Jack home – that wasn't a coincidence, was it?"

"No, it wasn't." Needing to fill her in on their children's machinations, he sighs. "Actually, Jack's complaint about being tired wasn't just a timely coincidence either. …They were both so excited about me finally asking that they were thrilled to help."

Eyes widening, Elizabeth exclaims, "Wait – Jack, too?!"

"Yes. It seems our children have discussed us and have been convinced for a while now that we should marry, even taking steps to help us along, like tonight." Pulling away a moment, he reaches into the breast pocket of his suit jacket and pulls out Allie and Jack's ornament. Handing it to her, he shares, "I caught Allie and Jack hanging this on the Wishing Tree last week. Wondering what combined wish they were asking for, I went and took it down as soon as they walked off."

Stunned, she studies the ornament and the wish written on it. "I knew they were up to something that day, but I never would've guessed this!" Nathan then relates his subsequent conversation with Allie. When he shares what Allie told him about she and Jack discussing their lost parents, tears pool in Elizabeth's eyes as she stares at him, listening. "Oh my goodness! …I've been sharing bits and pieces about his father with Jack, but I guess I didn't fully realize how much he's still struggling with that physical absence. …Y'know, I've prayed, when the time came, that Jack and Allie could accept us in the new roles we'd eventually assume, but I never would have dreamed they've been hoping for it so hard already." She shakes her head in amused disbelief. "It's a relief and a blessing, I guess, that the two most important people in our lives want our marriage as much as we do."

"I know. And the way they got there on their own without any prompting from us – it just reinforces to me that things were meant to work out just as they have…that our timing is finally right."

Smiling gently, she agrees. "I think so too." Glancing again at her front door, she grins. "Sooo… would you say it's safe to assume Jack is not upstairs asleep in bed?"

He laughs, takes her hand, and they walk up her front steps. "That's probably a safe guess. I suppose we should relieve their curiosity, don't you think?"

"I suppose so."

Sure enough, two anxious, hopeful young faces are waiting as soon as they walk through the door. Abandoning the book Allie was reading to Jack on the sofa, the children jump up and run to their parents.

"Well?!" Allie demands impatiently, her arm around Jack's shoulders.

Breaking into huge smiles, the pair glance from each other to their children. Nathan wraps his arm around Elizabeth and confirms, "You two will get your wish. We're getting married."

As expected, his announcement is met with excited laughter, shouts of joy, and hugs all around. For the next few minutes, happy chaos reigns in the little rowhouse as the new family-to-be celebrates together.

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CHRISTMAS DAY

After church the next morning, the four walk home together. Allie speaks up, "Hey, Jack – Dad and I have this tradition – we always go fishing after church on Christmas Day and see who can catch the biggest fish. Do you and your mom wanna come with us?" Nathan squeezes Elizabeth's hand as they listen.

Jack happily exclaims, "Yay!" Thinking a minute, he asks her, "Maybe you could show me how to use your pole?"

Nathan interrupts. "Actually, Jack, I have a better idea. I know we're going to exchange Christmas gifts later, but I think Allie and I should let you see what we got you now."

"Okay!"

Stopping at their house, Allie runs in. When she returns, she sticks her head out the door. "Close your eyes, Jack, until I say."

Obeying, Jack waits until he hears, "Okay, open them!"

Instantly, his eyes land on the brand new fishing pole in her hands, a smaller one just the right size for a little boy to handle. "Wow!" With huge, shining eyes, Jack admires the gift. "Thank you! Now I can fish with you?"

"You sure can," Allie confirms. "I'll teach you everything you need to know."

A little later, after they change clothes and Elizabeth throws together a simple picnic lunch, the four settle in at the lake. Nathan and Allie show Jack how to get started, and he's soon completely absorbed, watching his line in the water. Allie sits by him with her own pole, and the two chat back and forth. Elizabeth settles beside Nathan who has moved a few feet down to cast his line. She indicates Jack with a lift of her chin. "He seems to have taken right to this. For him to sit that still, he must really be enjoying the experience!"

He nods in agreement. Knowing she's never wanted to fish, he nudges her and teases, "Hey, you want to see what you're missing? You can take mine for a while."

Laughing, she shakes her head. "No, thank you. I'm perfectly content just observing… and cooking the fruits of your labor. …Besides, I think three fishermen in the family should be enough."

Appreciating the future her comment calls to mind, Nathan gives her a warm smile and brief kiss.

The sudden sparkling of her ring reflecting the sunlight catches their attention. Seeing it on her hand momentarily arrests Nathan as he remembers how long he dreamed of that vision and how long he thought it would never happen. Admiring it, Elizabeth quietly tells him, "It's a beautiful ring, Nathan. When did you get it?" At his continued silence, she looks up at him questioningly.

Reluctantly, he eventually admits, "Five years ago."

Her eyes widen. Stunned, she whispers, "You mean..."

"Yes, around the same time I was looking to buy Bill's land." He chuckles ruefully, "It seems naïve and presumptuous now because of course there were plenty of signs that you weren't ready - signs that I just didn't want to see. …And believe me, there were many times after you told me you weren't in love with me when I almost convinced myself to sell it. ...But every time I thought seriously about getting rid of it… something kept stopping me. I would look at it and see you. … I'd finally decided that I would take it to the pawn shop in Buxton on your wedding day. I don't think I could've attended anyway."

Elizabeth whispers in understanding, "But then I called it off."

"Then you called it off."

"Oh, Nathan, I'm so sorry." Confronted anew with the consequences of her past mistakes, she's grieved again at the heartbreak and pain she caused this wonderful man.

"You don't need to keep apologizing, Elizabeth. Truly. …Looking back, I can see I wasn't actually ready then either – at least, I wasn't ready to be the kind of man you deserve. I was selfish and impatient. I only saw what I wanted to see. So even though it didn't feel that way then, you ending any romance between us turned out for the best… eventually. …Watching you with someone else was painful. …But I learned that truly loving you means wanting your happiness above anything else. And being forced to consider other paths, I learned there could never be anyone else for me because I could never stop loving you." Taking her hand, he squeezes it briefly. "So please don't apologize for our past. It was preparing me to love you better."

Filled with wonder and gratitude, she regards him tenderly. "Nathan, that kind of steadfastness, of selflessness..." she breaks off, marveling at such devotion. Humbled, she shakes her head. "I don't deserve you. …But thank you for loving me so well."

Their quiet reflections end suddenly when Jack's excited shouts ring out, "I caught one! I caught one!"

Allie encourages, "Way to go, Jack! Bring it in! Good – just like that." She herself has already caught three. Jack's is a respectable size, but two of Allie's are bigger.

"You caught the biggest, Allie – good job!" Jack compliments her, being a good sport.

But Allie kindly insists, "Since this was your first time, I think we'll call it a tie. I didn't catch anything my first time!"

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Soon, the four are packed up heading home. Allie begins teaching Jack how to whistle. Their ease together makes their parents smile, despite the occasional ear-splitting wince. Before they reach Elizabeth's house, she and Nathan have fallen behind.

Noticing she seems lost in thought, Nathan squeezes her hand that he's holding. "Everything alright?"

Glancing at him, Elizabeth sighs and admits, "I'm not looking forward to telling my parents. I mean, early on, I told them and my sisters about our relationship and that it's serious, but I think Julie's the only one who has accepted it. My parents act like if they ignore it, maybe it isn't real."

Nathan's silent a moment, weighing his response. "I'm sorry they're not more supportive – I know how much they mean to you. But the truth is, they probably already know about our engagement."

Confused, she asks, "What do you mean?"

Rubbing the back of his neck with his free hand, Nathan reveals, "I mean that I visited your father a while back …to ask for his blessing to marry you."

As he reveals this, her eyes get bigger and bigger. "What?" she asks again, louder now. "You visited Hamilton? When?"

"Remember last month when I had to go to Union City to testify in that trial, and I called to let you know I was delayed a day? That's because I traveled on from Union City to Hamilton before coming home."

"I can't believe my parents or Julie never mentioned it. What happened when you met my father?"

"I'm not surprised they never mentioned it to you because it didn't go well, and like you said, I think he hopes ignoring it makes it not real."

"Why? What did he say? What did you say?"

"Well, you know me. I didn't say much. I introduced myself, then told him, 'Sir, I love your daughter more than anything in the world.' I told him that I've loved you a very long time and I'll love you the rest of my life. That I was going to ask you to marry me, and it would mean a great deal to both of us to have his blessing, especially because I know how much your family means to you."

"Let me guess. He refused."

"He did. He actually said less than I did, which is an unusual experience for me in conversation. From his refusal and his tone, I could tell he wasn't going to budge, not that day anyway. But before I left, I did remind him that you'll always be his daughter and Jack his grandson, plus any more children we're blessed with will also be his grandchildren who deserve to know their grandfather."

She sighs sadly. "I'm sorry he treated you rudely when he should welcome you and thank you for your service and for looking out for me and Jack for so long. It's not fair to you. And his reaction – it isn't even about you specifically. He would reject any man who – "

"Wasn't Lucas?" Nathan interjects, only slightly bitterly.

Casting a sidelong glance at him, she continues. "I was going to say 'any man who wears your uniform.' …After finally coming around to Jack, his death and how it devastated me… it hit them hard too." She pauses. Sighing, she then concedes reluctantly, "But you're probably right. They've always wanted me with a polished, well-to-do business-type with aspirations of climbing higher so they can control him… and me… pressure me back into their high-society world. ...But they know that's not me, not what I want. I don't know why they can't let their own ambitions go and be happy for me in the life I've chosen."

"They love you in their way, Beautiful. They just can't understand any other way. We'll just keep hoping they come around. And I don't blame your father. He just wants what he thinks is best for you. To him, that has to involve money and status – things I can't offer. Ultimately, he thinks he's protecting his daughter." Nodding ahead at Allie, "I can understand and appreciate that, even if I disagree with his perspective."

It's her turn to squeeze his hand. Smiling proudly at him, she tells him, "That's because you're a good man. …You're all I want or need."

Smiling devilishly, he teases, "Sooo… no more kissing potatoes?"

Glaring at him, she moves to swat his arm with her free hand. But he grabs it in his, stopping them both and turning to face her. "I guess we're both pretty rich." They kiss happily before catching up with their children.

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Once back at Elizabeth's house, Allie helps her fix hot chocolate, and they all enjoy a cup as they gather around the tree to exchange gifts. Jack is so excited, he can't sit still. Jumping up, he gives his present to Allie. "Open this one, Allie. It's from me!"

"Okay," she smiles. When she sees the sparkly hairclip inside, she gasps, "Wow, it's beautiful! I love it! Thank you, Jack!"

"You're welcome." They hug.

"Now, open mine." Allie tells him, handing him a paper-wrapped box. Tearing into it, he takes out a nice grooming kit and some treats. "I thought we could start grooming Pal together more, and with these treats, we could work on teaching him some neat tricks. He's a really smart pony, so I bet he'd pick up things right away."

Eyes dancing in excitement, Jack bounces, declaring, "That sounds great! Thanks, Allie!"

Elizabeth gives Allie an elegant stationary and fountain pen set. "For your writing," Elizabeth explains. "You're very talented, so please keep at it. And I still hope someday you'll be ready to share your talent with others."

"Thank you, Mrs. Thornton. I can't wait to use it!"

Nathan gives Allie the guitar charm for her bracelet. As predicted, she loves it. She immediately asks him to help her fasten it to her bracelet. "Can I see, Allie?" Jack asks.

"Sure! Come here, and I'll show you." The teen squeezes him in the chair with her so he can see while she points out each of her charms and what they signify.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth hands Nathan a light, flat box about the size of an envelope. Inside, he finds three fine handkerchiefs on which she has embroidered his monogram in the corner along with a discreet bouquet of tiny white flowers. He runs his thumb over her stitching as she explains, "Those are waxflowers. They symbolize enduring love." He meets her eyes, and they share a meaningful wordless exchange. "Here, there's one more," she prompts, handing him a second package. He opens it to reveal a sturdy double picture frame, hinged in the middle, with a fastener so that it resembles a small case when closed. He opens it, then stills at the images she placed inside. On the left, a photograph of Elizabeth, and on the right, one of Allie and Little Jack. Deeply moved, Nathan asks, "When did you get these done?"

"Oh, not long ago. I asked Lee for help, and he was kind enough to offer the newspaper camera and take these for us. I'd been thinking of taking the children to Union City to sit for a professional photographer, but that would have been impossible to hide from you, and I think Lee did a good job."

"Yeah, I can't imagine better," Nathan replies, clearing his throat in response to the swell of emotion clogging it.

Allie and Jack look on. Jack pipes up, "I remember that day! Momma made me wear my fancy clothes, and I had to sit still and not get dirty for sooo long. It was boring! …But she told me it was for you, so then I didn't mind as much."

The others laugh. "Well, I appreciate your sacrifice, young man," Nathan tells him.

Turning back to Nathan, Elizabeth tells him, "I thought in that frame if…" she stops, correcting herself, "when you have to travel for another assignment, you can take it with your things. So we can be with you in a way."

Taking her hand, he replies with conviction, "You all are already with me everywhere I go… But I'm thrilled to have this to carry too. …It's perfect." And Elizabeth knows he doesn't just mean the photos themselves, but what they represent – his family.

Their intense gaze is broken when Allie tells Jack, "There's one more present for you from Dad and me." She reaches behind the tree, then hands him a pot of dirt with a bow on it.

Looking skeptical, Jack asks, "Isn't that just dirt, Allie?"

Laughing, she says, "Yes, but that's not the present." From a handkerchief in her pocket, she pulls out several seeds and shows him. "These are pine tree seeds. I got them from a pine cone on our tree here." She explains their tradition while Jack listens intently. "I thought this year you could help me plant the seeds, and then in the spring, we can plant the pine sapling together. We may need to find a different place this time – our back yard's getting full!"

"That sounds fun!" Jack shouts, excitedly. With intense concentration, he and Allie carefully place the seeds in the pot, then cover them lightly with dirt.

Elizabeth tells Allie and Nathan, "Thank you for sharing that with us. That's a beautiful tradition."

Jack then looks around and asks, "Is that all the presents?"

To Elizabeth's confusion, Nathan answers, "Not quite, Jack. I have something for Elizabeth, but she and I have to go out for me to give it to her. Will you be okay waiting here with Allie for a little bit? It won't take long."

Aware of her dad's secret, Allie assures, "We'll have fun while we wait, Jack. You can show me your electric train set." At that, Jack happily agrees.

Turning to Elizabeth and grinning at her look of befuddlement, Nathan asks, "Take a walk with me?" He stands, offering her his hand.

Elizabeth startles and freezes momentarily, staring at him blankly, thrown into memories at hearing that phrase.

Noting her odd reaction, Nathan's brow furrows. "You alright?"

With a brief shake of her head, Elizabeth recovers, smiling, "I'm fine. Yes, I'd love to come with you."

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They walk together into town, hand in hand, Elizabeth entertaining them both with her wildly off-the-mark guesses.

Walking by the saloon, she asks, "Um, the Queen of Hearts is closed today, right? Ooh, is Lee letting you use it? Are we playing darts?"

Looking appalled and bewildered, Nathan bursts, "That's what you think of my gift-giving ability?! A game of darts? How do you figure that's even a gift?! …No!"

She huffs in frustration, but is undeterred. By now they're approaching the stables. "Ooh, it's at the stables?"

With fond exasperation and a touch of sarcasm, Nathan affirms, "Yes …Excellent detective work, Beautiful."

She crinkles her nose at him. A new thought strikes her, and she jumps, excitedly wondering, "Ooh, is it something for Sergeant? Like a red and green Christmas saddle pad cover and matching hat?"

Even more appalled, Nathan recoils in pretend horror before mocking her mercilessly. "Ok, that's it. No more guessing for you. You are officially the worst at guessing! How are you so bad at it?! What if Sergeant heard you – I'm offended on his behalf!"

Elizabeth mimics his tone, "I'm usually quite a good guesser, thank you very much – it's not my fault my fiancé drags me from home on Christmas Day and traipses me across town to the stables to give me some mystery present that's apparently not at all portable. That would put anyone off their game!"

Feeling a tug on her hand, she realizes Nathan has stopped and is looking at her with an uncharacteristically silly grin as if he isn't even listening. She stops too, turning to him. "What?!"

"You called me your fiancé," Nathan answers smugly, still grinning hugely, clearly not having heard anything she said after that.

"Oh…that," she whispers, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear self-consciously.

"Yes…that. Y'know, I've theorized about how deeply in love with you I can fall, but I now have solid evidence that there really is no bottom… because I was certain I couldn't love you any more, but hearing you call me fiancé?" He shakes his head. "Whole new level, Beautiful."

She glances down with a pleased smile. "That's nice to know. …Now, may I see my present?"

He laughs, "Yes, but close your eyes."

"Really?!"

"Yes, and no peeking! Now, come on." He takes her hand and leads her inside down the center aisle toward the opposite end before stopping. "Okay, open your eyes."

Glancing around and seeing the familiar horses in their stables, Elizabeth starts, "So, what am I – " she breaks off on a gasp as she spots what's sitting just past the wide double doors standing open at the opposite end of the building. Stunned, frozen, she questions weakly, "Is that…"

"…Your book wagon? Yes, it is."

Overcome with emotion, Elizabeth turns to stare at him, "Nathan, I can't believe it. Is this a dream? This is the best gift anyone's ever given me. You finished my book wagon?!"

Nathan shrugs self-consciously. "Well, I had help. I couldn't have done it without Joseph and Lee."

Still staring at him in awe, she persists, "It was years ago I mentioned this to you. You remembered me telling you about it all that time?"

Heart in his eyes, he answers, "Of course I do. I remember everything you tell me, but this especially stood out because you were so excited and passionate about your dream to travel into the mountains, taking books to rural families in neighboring areas who don't have access to them otherwise. You have such a huge heart for others, especially those less fortunate. I remember thinking I wanted to help make that dream come true for you."

"This is a dream come true, one that I'd put aside for too long. …I don't know, I guess life got in the way." Emotion clogging her voice, she continues shakily, "Nathan, what you've given me here… you've made me so happy… I can't tell you what this means to me…" she breaks off, at a loss for words to convey her feelings. "Y'know what you said earlier about falling in love?" At his nod, she continues, "Well, this is my solid evidence – I thought I couldn't be happier or love you more than last night when you asked me to be your wife, but this?" she pauses, waving at the customized wagon with its rows and rows of sturdy shelves and its fresh, cheery paint. "Whole new level, Constable."

Smiling, he pulls her into his arms and kisses her. Breaking the kiss, he teases quietly, "Of course… it figures the way to your heart is through books. …I mean, you did quote Emerson about the second time we met."

Grinning softly, she replies in kind, "Books are always a good idea." Sobering, she continues, "But the way you always hear me, the way you pour yourself into gifting something, the way you understand me and work so hard to make me happy and help me pursue my dreams – now, that's really the way to my heart, and you apparently have that mapped out pretty perfectly."' She reaches up to kiss him again before whispering, "Thank you. I love you."

With an expression of utter contentment, he gazes back at her, "You're welcome. And I love you too. Always."

They smile at each other a moment longer. Then, Elizabeth's smile widens as she asks coaxingly, "May I check it out?" Laughing, he releases her with a wave of his arm, "Be my guest."

Squealing, she runs to it and climbs up to examine the renovations more closely. "The shelving, the doors, it's all exactly as I pictured it."

"I'm glad. Now," Nathan clears his throat, adopting a serious expression as he explains, "as excited as you are, I hate to bring this up, but this gift actually comes with a condition."

Pausing her exploration, she looks at him dubiously, "A conditional gift, Nathan? Really?"

"Well, just this once."

Crossing her arms skeptically, Elizabeth concedes, "Okay, let's hear it."

"The condition is that I accompany you when you take this out to the mountain neighborhoods."

Cocking her head, she gently objects, "Nathan, that is not necessary. It would take the better part of a day. You are far too busy – you can't just take that much time away from your duties here to – "

"I beg to differ, Elizabeth," Nathan interrupts. "Bill is willing and able to hold things down here. And when it comes to your safety, my peace of mind is completely necessary. Do you think I'd be able to focus on anything else or get anything done here anyway if I'm worrying about you riding alone in the mountains?" Seeing her about to continue arguing, he cuts her off. "I'm sorry, Beautiful. This is non-negotiable."

Recognizing his seriousness and that there'll be no swaying him, at least not now, Elizabeth concedes with a resigned smile and a sigh, "Alright, as you wish." Lips tilting up, she regards him from the corner of her eye. "I guess there are worse things than having all that travel time alone with my fiancé."

"Oh, now, you're asking for trouble."

"Me? Never!" She insists, her innocent air belied by her wicked smirk.

"Uh-huh." Without warning, he tickles her side. Squealing, she jumps out of his reach.

"Alright, alright! Truce!"

Laughing, they start home again, hand in hand.

PS - Thank you again, Tracy, for sharing your idea with our Team Nathan fb group and for letting me use it here. You came up with a beautiful concept, and that conversation between the kids really ended up inspiring a lot of the direction of this chapter. You rock!