Authers Note: This is my first Fanfiction in many years hopefully it is OK

Chapter 1

The afternoon sun cast a warm glow over Hope Valley's main Street as Rosemary and Bill emerged from the saloon, each carefully balancing a stack of wedding decorations. "Careful with those, Bill," Rosemary cautioned, her gaze fixed on the delicate paper lanterns.

Bill chuckled, adjusting his grip on the streamers. "Don't worry, I won't drop them. Minnie will have my head if I do," he replied.

As they navigated the wooden boardwalk, the rhythmic tap-tap of their footsteps provided a steady cadence to their conversation. Rosemary's attention was drawn to a familiar figure approaching from the opposite end of the street. A subtle nudge to Bill drew his gaze. "Hey, Bill, take a look at that," she whispered, her voice barely above a whisper.

Intrigue sparked in Bill's eyes as he followed her line of sight. "What is he doing here?" he questioned quietly. Rosemary's expression turned serious as she continued to watch the approaching figure. "I don't know, but I plan to find out," she replied, her voice low and determined.

Their shared focus intensified as Superintendent Hargraves drew nearer. A silent understanding passed between them. With swift efficiency, Rosemary and Bill placed the wedding decorations near the cafe door. Without a word, they turned their attention back to the approaching figure, their bodies stiffening with anticipation.

Nathan could not stop the racing of his heart when she looked at him, giggled, and told him she had her heart's desire. How could he have been so lucky to have her choose him after everything they had been through together. He could hear the crunch of gravel coming towards them, but when Elizabeth looked at him with that smile and look in her eye, he just had to kiss her. Their lips had just touched, and a surge of desire swept through him, making him want to linger in this moment forever.

"Constable Grant," Nathan and Elizabeth quickly separated once they were both facing him. He continued, "Mrs. Thornton, I am Superintendent Hardgraves."

"Yes, I remember," Elizabeth said, her arms crossed defensively across her body. Her eyes flashed with confusion and frustration, the unfinished kiss still lingering on her lips.

"Sir, what brings you from Fort Clay?" Nathan asked, putting both of his hands in his pockets.

"I'll explain in private," Hardgraves said with a tone of authority.

"Can I wait," Nathan asked in frustration.

"No, I am afraid not," Hargreaves said, his voice clipped, leaving no chance for discussion. Nathan sighed inwardly, wishing he could be enjoying his first date with Elizabeth instead of this interruption.

"Okay, well we can speak in my office," Nathan said as he took a step forward onto the street.

"I am not here to talk to you, Constable. I am here to talk to Mrs. Thornton," he paused. "It is about your late husband. Elizabeth quickly turned her head to Nathan, then back to Hardgraves. Elizabeth was now concerned; something didn't feel right.

"Well, we can still go into my office," Nathan offered. There was no way he was going to let her hear whatever information his Superior had about Jack without being there with her.

"Constable, your office would be fine, however, I need to speak to Mrs. Thornton privately," Superintendent Hardgraves said, his voice leaving no room for argument.

"Sir, I would like Constable Grant present, please," Elizabeth asked quietly, finally finding her voice.

Hardgraves paused, a calculating look crossing his face. "No, unfortunately this is a private matter and Constable Grant should not be present."

Nathan stepped forward, his voice firm. "With all due respect, Superintendent, I believe Elizabeth could use my support during this conversation."

Hardgraves' face hardened. "Constable Grant, I understand your concern, but this matter is delicate. Your presence could complicate things. I assure you; I will treat Mrs. Thornton with the utmost respect."

Elizabeth's voice trembled slightly. "Please, Nathan. I want you here with me."

Bill stepped forward, placing a protective arm around Elizabeth's shoulders. His gaze locked onto Hardgraves, his eyes icy cold. "I am going with her."

Hardgraves' face flushed with anger. "Bill, I appreciate your concern, but this is a matter between myself and Mrs. Thornton. I cannot allow that to happen."

Rosemary stepped forward, her hands on her hips, a determined glint in her eye. "Superintendent Hardgraves, I cannot fathom why Elizabeth would face this alone. Jack was like a brother to me, and I will not stand for this nonsense." She linked arms with Elizabeth, who gave her a thankful glance. Bill and Nathan exchanged a grateful look, their silent agreement a stark contrast to Hardgraves' stubbornness. He had no idea what he just agreed to by letting Rosemary join Elizabeth.

The tension in the group was palpable as they made their way towards Nathan's office. Elizabeth walked between Nathan and Rosemary, with Bill following closely behind. Hardgraves brought up the rear, his expression a mask of irritation.

Hargraves enters Nathan's office, his presence immediately chilling the atmosphere that had usually filled the room. Elizabeth and Rosemary exchange a nervous glance as the superintendent gestures for them to sit down in front of Nathan's desk. He takes a seat behind it, his stern expression casting a shadow over the room.

Hargraves clears his throat and begins to relay the chilling information. "We believe your late husband, Jack Thornton, while serving in the Northern Territories inadvertently stumbled upon a dangerous situation involving a criminal gang operating in the region. During his investigations, he was instrumental in apprehending a dangerous criminal. This individual is due out of prison at the end of the week and has threatened revenge against you and your son"

A heavy silence falls over the room as the gravity of the situation sinks in. Elizabeth's face pales, and Rosemary clutches her arm in support.

Elizabeth's voice trembles as she speaks. "Jack... he was working on something dangerous?" Her eyes widen in shock and fear. "Why wasn't I told? Why are we just hearing about this now?"

Hargraves leans forward, his expression grim. "Unfortunately, Mrs. Thornton, we were unable to inform you sooner. The situation was delicate, and we were hoping to resolve the matter without endangering you and your son."

He pauses, his voice taking on a more urgent tone. "You have forty-eight hours before any potential action could be taken."

Rosemary looks puzzled. "If this is such a serious threat, why are Nathan and Bill outside? Shouldn't they be involved in this as well?"

Hargraves pauses, considering his response. "Mrs. Coulter, this is a sensitive matter. For now, it's crucial that we focus on protecting Elizabeth and her son."

Elizabeth's eyes widen in fear. "What do we do? How do we protect Jack?"

Hargraves takes a deep breath. "After careful consideration and consultation with your father, Mr. Thatcher, we believe the safest course of action is for you and Jack to relocate temporarily to your father's estate in Cape Fullerton."

Elizabeth's eyes narrow, her voice filled with disbelief. "My father? Why would you consult with him first and not me? This is my life and my son's life we're talking about."

Hargraves leans forward, his expression serious. "Mr. Thatcher has the resources and security to provide you and Jack with the protection you need during this difficult time. It was a difficult decision, but we believe it's the safest option available."

Elizabeth's voice rises in frustration. "I have an open house at the school tomorrow. I cannot just drop everything and leave. I need to be here. I need to know I'm safe here."

Hargraves regards her with a sympathetic look. "Elizabeth, I understand your concerns. You are safe for the next couple of days. However, after that, it is imperative that you and Jack relocate to a secure location. Cape Fullerton is the safest option available at this time."

Rosemary, her journalistic instincts still piqued, speaks up. "With all due respect, Superintendent Hargraves, if Nathan and Bill were able to handle a hostage situation just a few days ago, why is it necessary for Elizabeth to relocate? Surely, they could provide adequate protection here in Hope Valley."

Hargraves meets Rosemary's gaze directly. "Mrs. Coulter, this is a sensitive matter. For now, it is crucial that we focus on protecting Elizabeth and her son. While Constable Grant and Mr. Avery are capable of providing for the town safety this situation requires a level of security and resources that surpass their capabilities. We must ensure the safety of Hope Valley as well as Elizabeth and her son."

Hargraves pauses, then adds. "To ease your concerns, I will be dispatching an additional Mountie to accompany Elizabeth and Jack to Cape Fullerton. He is trained in personal protection They will provide round-the-clock protection during the relocation and upon arrival."

Rosemary's eyebrows furrow as she considers the information. "And what about the rest of Hope Valley? If this is a threat to Elizabeth, could it potentially spread to the rest of the town?"

Hargraves leans forward, his expression serious. "We believe the threat is specifically targeted at Elizabeth and her family at this time. However, we are taking precautions to protect the town as well. It's essential to keep the details of this situation confidential to avoid unnecessary panic and to prevent the perpetrators from altering their plans."

Rosemary presses further, her voice firm. "But if Bill and Nathan are kept in the dark about this threat, how can they effectively protect the town? Their knowledge of the situation could be crucial in preventing any potential attacks."

Hargraves maintains a steady gaze. "Constable Grant and Mr. Avery will continue their duties as normal. However, due to the sensitive nature of this threat, it is imperative that the details remain limited to those directly involved in protecting Elizabeth and her family. This will help to minimize the risk of compromising the investigation and the lives of and Mr. Avery, Constable Grant, and their families."

Elizabeth's voice is firm as she speaks. "I understand the need for caution, and I agree to relocate to protect Jack. However, I must be back in Hope Valley in one month for the start of the school year."

Hargraves nods in understanding. "I understand your concerns, Mrs. Thornton we will make every effort to ensure your safe return to Hope Valley within the timeframe you've specified."

Hargraves pauses, his expression turning hard. "I expect your full cooperation, Arthurton. I expect this conversation to not leave this room. Any deviation from the plan could jeopardize your safety and that of your son. I will be getting a hotel room to be here to further assist in any way possible until you have been safely relocated. I will meet with you here at three tomorrow afternoon to discuss any other questions you may have.

With a final, stern look at both women, Hargraves turns and leaves the office, leaving Elizabeth and Rosemary alone to process the gravity of the situation.

Nathan paced back and forth outside his office; his jaw clenched. Bill just out of sight by the doorway, his arms crossed, watching his friend with a worried expression. The setting sun casts long, dramatic shadows across their faces, their silhouettes stark against the fading light.

The door burst open, startling Nathan and Bill. Superintendent Hargraves stepped out, his face a mask of grim determination. The abruptness of his appearance sent a shiver down their spines.

"I believe Mrs. Thorton and Mrs. Coulter could use some privacy to process the information I've just shared," Hargraves says, his voice low. "This is a private matter concerning Mrs. Thornton. It is really important it stays that way.

Nathan and Bill exchanged a concerned glance.

Hargraves turns to Nathan. "I understand your concern for Ms. Thornton, but I need you to understand that this is a delicate situation. I would prefer this matter not to escalate any further." He pauses, his gaze hardening. "Although I have no control over your personal life, I do have control over your career. So please stay out of this so it doesn't have to go any further than this conversation."

Inside the office, Elizabeth's gaze falls upon a small, blank piece of paper and a pen resting on the edge of Nathan's desk. A plan begins to form in her mind. Grabbing the pen, she quickly writes a note.

Rosemary notices Elizabeth's focused expression. "What are you doing?" she asks, curiosity piqued.

Elizabeth finishes writing the note and folds it carefully. "I need some fresh air," she says, standing up. "I have forty-eight hours, and I need to clear my head before I have to start preparing to leave."

Rosemary's eyebrows furrow. "Alone?"

Elizabeth nods, her expression determined. "I promise I'll be careful."

Rosemary hesitates, concern evident in her eyes. "Are you sure about this?"

Elizabeth offers Rosemary a reassuring smile. "I'll be back soon." Then, turning to face Rosemary fully, she adds, "Are you ready to turn on your acting skills? We might need them."

Rosemary grins. "Absolutely. Let's do this."

Together, they open the door to Nathan's office, s stepping out to face Nathan and Bill. As they emerge, they see Superintendent Hargraves walking down the steps towards the hotel.

Elizabeth walks directly to Nathan, gives him a warm hug, and whispers, "Everything's okay, Nathan. I just need fresh air. I will be back to talk to you soon. I love you."

She then turns to Bill, giving him a reassuring smile. "I'll be back before you know it, Bill."

Elizabeth turns to Rosemary, a neutral expression on her face. "Will you walk me to the stables?" she asks, her voice maintaining a calm tone.

Rosemary nods, returning a similar expression. "Of course," she replies.

With that, Elizabeth and Rosemary begin to walk away from the office in the direction of the stables.

The office door closes with a soft click, leaving Nathan and Bill alone. A heavy silence fills the room.

Nathan runs a hand through his hair, his face etched with concern. "I don't like this, Bill. Not one bit."

Bill nods in agreement, his eyes fixed on the closed door. "Hargraves is up to something. We need to figure out what."

Nathan paces across the room, his mind racing. "We can't let him intimidate us. Elizabeth and Rosemary need our support."

Bill stops Nathan with a hand on his arm. "I know, but we have to be careful. We don't want to put ourselves or Elizabeth in danger."

A moment of silence passes as they both contemplate the situation. Nathan nods in agreement, a look of frustration crossing his face. "I feel awful. It just seems like no matter what we do, our timing is off."

Bill offers a sympathetic smile. "If it makes you feel any better, I don't think I've ever seen her look this happy."

Nathan manages a small smile. "I'm glad to hear that, but it makes me even more concerned about Hargraves."

Bill's expression grows serious. "Me too. Something about his behavior today was off. He seemed almost...rehearsed."

Nathan nods in agreement. "And that line about his control over my career? That was a blatant threat.

Elizabeth and Rosemary Walk side-by-side along the dusty road leading to the stables. The afternoon sun casts long shadows, and a gentle breeze carries the scent of wildflowers.

Rosemary breaks the silence. "Well, that was...interesting."

Elizabeth nods, a small smile playing on her lips. "Definitely."

Rosemary pauses for a moment, considering her words carefully. Lowering her voice, she says, "We don't want other people to hear about the threat against you and Jack, do we? After all, Hargraves is still in town."

Elizabeth glances around nervously. "You're right. We need to be careful."

Elizabeth stops walking, her face a mask of sadness. "Scared. Concerned. Sad. Hargraves had literally just interrupted my first date with Nathan, and now I have to leave."

Rosemary places a comforting hand on Elizabeth's arm. "I know, it's a lot to take in. Do you think we should tell Bill and Nathan?"

As they reach the stables, Rosemary stops and looks at Sergeant, already settled in his stall. "Look, Sergeant is already ready to go." She glances at the next stall, where Newton is also saddled. "And it looks like someone else is ready for a ride."

Elizabeth gently rubs Sergeant's nose, a small smile tugging at her lips. "I know. We were finally going to go on that ride we've been promising each other for weeks before that rude interruption."

Rosemary nods thoughtfully. "Maybe we should at least tell Bill. He could help us figure out what Hargraves is up to."

Elizabeth pauses, considering Rosemary's suggestion. "I'm not sure about telling Nathan. I do not want to risk his career. He does have a lot to think about."

Turning to Rosemary, Elizabeth pulls a small piece of paper from her pocket, the one she wrote in Nathan's office. "Give this to Bill. Do not read it, just give it to him. Then go check on Jack and Allie please."

Rosemary takes the note. "I think I'll wait five minutes. That way, it will give you a few minutes to get a start on your ride. Are you sure you will be okay on your own?"

Elizabeth mounts Sergeant and adjusts the reins. "I will be fine, Rosemary. Superintendent Hargraves said I have two days where I am safe. I'll come and find you as soon as I get back."

Rosemary watches as Elizabeth leads Sergeant out of the stable, a mixture of worry and determination on her face. She turns to look at the note in her hand, wondering what it could contain.

Rosemary walks briskly back to Nathan's office, her mind racing. She hopes to find Nathan and Bill there. Reaching the office, she knocks on the door. There is no answer, but she can hear voices inside.

Taking a deep breath, she opens the door and steps inside. Nathan and Bill are sitting at the desk, engrossed in conversation. They both look up as she enters.

"Rosemary, how is Elizabeth?" Nathan says a welcoming smile on his face.

"She's okay... at least for a few days," Rosemary replied, hoping to act her way out of this situation.

Bill and Nathan could see beyond comfort on her face. Bill stands up and offers her a chair. "Please, sit down. We were just discussing the situation."

Rosemary takes a step back, her discomfort evident. "I'm not sure I'm the best person for that," she repeats, her voice wavering slightly.

Nathan and Bill exchange a puzzled look. "Why not?" Nathan asks, his brow furrowed.

Rosemary takes a deep breath. "I just... I don't think I'm the right person for this."

Feeling at the note in her pocket, feeling a surge of anxiety. She knows she needs to deliver it, but the fear of what it might contain is paralyzing.

Suddenly, a defiant spark ignites in her eyes. "You two didn't trust me before. Why should I trust you with this?"

Bill looks at Nathan and answers, "We were both sworn to secrecy."

Rosemary responds firmly, "As was I. For the safety of all involved, including you two."

Reaching into her pocket, she pulls out the small, folded piece of paper. The office is bathed in soft afternoon sunlight, coming through the window. A beam of light catches the paper, making it appear almost ethereal. With a deliberate movement, she hands the note to Bill. "Elizabeth asked me to give this to you. I do not know what it says. She told me not to read it."

Nathan and Bill exchanged a concerned glance.

Nathan breaks the silence. "Rosemary, we need to know what Hargraves wanted from Elizabeth. It's important."

Rosemary hesitated, her eyes darting between the two men. "Elizabeth asked me to deliver this to you and to check on Jack and Allie. That's what I'm going to do."

As Rosemary leaves the office, Nathan and Bill exchange a concerned look.

Bill reaches for the note Rosemary gave him and unfolds the note…