Chapter 46

Jack sat down with a huff in the chair beside the firepit. His leg was hurting from all the walking they did during the day. He didn't mind the pain. He loved being with the fellas and all the kidding they did. Everyone came to his house for the firepit, BBQ, and playing around on the guitars.

"You good?"

Jack nodded his head at Steven. "I am. We may have overdone it today, but I'm good."

"Alright, men. The burgers and hotdogs are ready. There are chips and drinks on the kitchen island. Help yourselves."

"Thanks, Mr. Thornton." Tom heard several voices call out at once.

After everyone grabbed food and drinks, they all went to the firepit. Both guitars were there waiting for them. The food didn't last long. This group of guys may not have been football players, but they were still teenage boys who could put away a lot of food.

"You have developed this bad habit of spying on Jack." Tom snuck up behind his wife, who was standing in front of the French doors, looking out over the backyard at the group of guys sitting and laughing around the medium-sized fire.

"I remember when we first moved in. I was so worried this was going to be a bad move for Jack."

"He's resilient. It may have taken him some time, but he adapted very well."

"He gets that from his father."

"That's strange; I thought he got that from his mother."

"I'm going to check on them. They may need some more food or drinks." She reached for the handle. Tom captured her hand before she touched it.

"Such a mom." Tom sassed. "They are big boys. They know where everything is. Let them have the evening without you hovering."

"Tom! I am not hovering." Charlette demanded.

"That's because I am holding you back." He laughed.

…

Rosemary lay across Elizabeth's bed along with Steph. Elizabeth and Connie were sitting on Elizabeth's favorite seat. Each talked about their guy. Then, their attention turned to other couples in school. It was a nice evening catching up on the latest high school news.

Each young lady has texted with their significant other throughout the day, but not constantly.

"Are you ok?" Connie asked Elizabeth.

"I am. I have greatly enjoyed today with you all. It's just…it's just suddenly, I miss Jack."

"Yeah." The three other young ladies stated at the same time.

"I like that we spend so much time together and still get along."

"I agree, Steph," Elizabeth said. I also like the fact that we don't have to be around each other. I am still me."

"I agree," Rosey stated.

"How are you and Lee doing with everything?"

"He's very patient with me. I needed that. But now…"

"But now you are ready for him not to be so patient." Playfully sassed Connie.

Rosemary nodded her head. "I am."

"He has been so patient with you, knowing your history, that he won't push until you tell him it's ok."

"I know, Steph." Rosemary rubbed her face with both hands.

"Girl, get out of your head and follow your heart," Elizabeth stated.

"Is that what you've done with Jack?"

"To a large degree, yes. I've never dated and didn't know how to be a girlfriend. Jack and I had a couple of hiccups in the beginning. I had to learn how to be in a relationship."

"Hiccups…I would say great big speed bumps." Sassed Steph.

"Fine…I goofed early on, but I think I figured it out."

"I would say Jack is completely lost in you. I'm grateful, too. He is a great guy—he has been since I met him in first grade. I'm grateful he has you in his life."

"I'm grateful, too."

…

"So?"

"So?" Jack returned Cory's sass.

"You and Elizabeth?"

"What about me and Elizabeth?"

"Jack, don't you know it's rude to answer a question with a question." Sassed Shane.

"Listen here, young fella." Jack sassed him by pointing his finger in Shane's direction.

"So?"

"Well, we are dating and will attend Bryan's University in the fall."

"And the ring?"

"It's a ring." Jack shrugged his shoulders.

"My older sister received that type of ring from her Irish boyfriend in college." Malachi said with a knowing smile.

Jack quickly turned his attention toward the young man who was sitting opposite him on the other side of the firepit. Malachi slightly nodded his head in understanding. He knew the meaning of the ring and the different placements. Jack returned his slight nod with his own.

"And you and Connie?" Jack asked Steven, trying to change the subject.

"I guess the same with you and Elizabeth. Graduating and then college together."

"Me and Steph, too," Cory added before he was asked.

"And you two?" Cory nodded toward Shane and Malachi.

"My mom won't let me date until I'm sixteen," Shane stated.

"I see you talking to a blonde often."

"Oh…Amy." He quietly stated with a red tint on his face. "She's nice, but she isn't allowed to date either."

"Well, build that friendship and see where it goes." Jack turned his attention toward Malachi. "You?"

"Brenda and I have begun to talk. Nothing too serious yet."

"Awesome. I have one class with her. She seems nice." Jack smiled.

…

Elizabeth quickly, but as quietly as possible, opened the front door before Jack rang the doorbell. She smiled at her boyfriend.

"Come in." She reached for his hand. She pulled him inside her home. She closed the door just as quietly as she opened it.

"Why is it so dark in here?" He asked. Only one small light was on in the dining room, living room, and kitchen.

"It's late, Jack."

"I know. I'm surprised you called and demanded for me to come over."

"I didn't demand it…I just asked you." She wilted under his look. She was rather demanding that he come over to see her.

"Ma wasn't going to allow me to come over since it's late, but when I told her you wanted to talk to me about something important, she allowed me. I have to be home by midnight. So, what is so important?"

"Hey, follow me. I want to show you something," she said as she reached for his hand.

"Where are your parents?"

"Jack, it's late. They're in their bedroom already. Father is probably asleep with a book on his chest, and mother is reading."

He wanted to say something but didn't know how to respond. He stopped walking when she led him to the staircase.

"Where are you taking me?"

"I want to show you something."

"Elizabeth…I'm not allowed upstairs."

"Mother and father will never know. Come on…" She pulled him up the staircase.

After walking down the hall, they turned into the third room on the right.

"This is my bedroom."

"Elizabeth…"

"And this is my favorite place in the house." She pointed to the cushioned seating area beside a huge window. "I sit there and read, study, and just look out that window and daydream."

"It looks beautiful," he whispered, looking out the big picture window. He slowly turned in her room, trying to take in every detail. It smelled like her. The room fit Elizabeth perfectly.

She waited for Jack to finish turning around. When he finally faced her again, she approached him with her arms open for a hug. Elizabeth looked up into Jack's emerald eyes, which were screaming 'I love you' with each passing second. She pulled him closer. He was too far away from her, even though they were touching. Her radio was playing soft, romantic music as background noise. It set the atmosphere perfectly romantic.

"Did you have fun with the guys today?"

"I did…but I missed you."

"I saw you at the mall today. I texted you, and you pulled your phone out and smiled. That was sweet."

"Why didn't you get my attention?"

"Thank you for coming over." They were straying from the direction she wanted to go.

"I wanted to see you. I'm just not sure if I should be here…" His voice trailed off.

"Here?" She seductively whispered, trying to tighten her hold on him. He was still too far away from her even though they were completely touching. She began to sway with the music.

They danced intimately close. Every few seconds, she tried to get closer to him. Her perfume was driving him crazy. Feeling her press against him was pushing him over the edge. The look in her eyes picked him up and threw him off the cliff. She just wasn't pulling him into her; she had already captured him.

"In your bedroom…dancing…what if your father comes in?"

"It's a big house, Jack. I've already said goodnight to them. They won't be coming by. Their bedroom is downstairs. I think we're safe."

As much as he knew he should take a step back and create some distance between them, his body wouldn't allow his mind to take control. The fire between them was beginning to consume them. It had always simmered, but this time, it was beginning to rage out of control if they didn't step back from each other. He stepped closer to her. He placed his right hand on the small of her back. With firm pressure, he pulled her closer to him. His hand remained dangerously close to her bottom.

She placed her head on his upper chest and snuggled into his neck. She slowly moved her hand around his waist and found his back belt loop. She tugged on it to bring him closer to her. They were already completely touching. With a devilish smile, she kissed the base of his neck, working her way to his ear. She knew that was his weakness. When he began to squirm, she tightened her hold on him. She wasn't letting him go.

"Don't! You! Dare!" he warned her. His voice was completely broken, and his tone lacked any resemblance of authority. There were long pauses between each word.

Instead of stopping, his statement made her more determined to capture his ear. She was set on driving him crazy. She knew she shouldn't. They have drawn limits, and both agreed on those boundaries. They had always followed those limits…but those limits were nowhere close to being in her bedroom in the middle of the night when she was in his arms. As she nibbled on his right ear, his knees gave way for a split second. He let out a soft moan at the incredible sensation she was creating. His moan only drew him further into her control. She wasn't sorry.

He reached down to just below her bottom when she nibbled twice on his ear. He picked her up. She had moved her hands to the back of his neck. She wrapped her legs around Jack's waist. She interlocked her ankles behind his back. His hands moved slightly, and now he was grasping her bottom. She could never explain it or understand it, but she loved it when he held her backside.

Jack pulled back just enough to break her dominance on his ear. Their lips immediately found each other. The kiss was passionate from the moment their lips touched. It grew by the second. The fire was beginning to get out of control.

Without thinking, Jack took slow steps forward until he reached her bed. He laid her down on the bed very slowly and with great purpose. She didn't let go of her grasp on him. As a matter of fact, he thought she held on tighter. He was on top of her with her legs still wrapped around his waist and her arms around his neck. The kiss was never broken. She couldn't understand it, but the weight of Jack on top of her was intoxicating. He wasn't heavy by any means. It felt safe and secure. Somehow, it brought her peace and comfort. It also drew her further into him. She was trying to form her body around his.

When Jack pulled back just enough to inhale a breath his lungs desperately needed, Elizabeth had no desire to break contact with her handsome boyfriend. She had never been in a position like this with a boy before. Her body knew exactly what it wanted. More than that, she was growing aggravated with the presence of his shirt. She wanted to touch his chest. She could never imagine hating a shirt more than his at this moment. She released her hands and slowly moved them down his back, caressing their way to his waist. She grabbed the bottom of Jack's shirt. Effortlessly, she pulled his shirt off him in one swift motion. Jack smiled a seductive smile at her.

"That's what I'm talking about," she huskily stated slowly as she ran her hands up and down his chest. She bit her bottom lip as she concentrated and caressed it. She had seen him without a shirt on before, but she had never caressed it like now.

They finally made eye contact when she tore her eyes from his chest. After a second, she nodded her approval. When she felt his hands begin to move, her smile grew into a passionate smile. Jack reached for her top button. He never broke eye contact with her. She felt so conflicted at the moment. She knew what he would do and was anxiously waiting for it. However, she missed his hands holding her bottom. For Elizabeth, his intentional gazing into her eyes was everything. It was so loving, yet so passionate. She could easily see the fire in those emerald seas that were screaming his love for her. She gasped when she felt his fingers on her top button.

While never looking away, Jack unbuttoned the top button of her shirt. The corner of his lips curled at her slight flinching at his touch. He didn't think of not doing it. Her eyes were giving him all the permission he needed. Elizabeth swallowed hard when she felt his hands travel to the next button. She buried the back of her head in the pillow when that button was released. She let out a soft moan that she didn't realize she did. She closed her eyes, promising she would remember every feeling she was experiencing.

Jack pulled the shirt open enough to expose the upper portion of her cleavage. It wasn't open enough to show everything, but it gave a great hint at what was under the next button. For the first time, he turned his attention away from her eyes and moved his attention to her lips. He gently kissed her once before moving to her chin. She smiled when he nibbled the tip of her chin. Then he nibbled his way to the small intention at the base of her neck. Elizabeth buried her head into the pillow a little more at the new sensation. It was beginning to be too much for her. Her mind couldn't keep up with the new feelings Jack was lovingly giving her. She had already lost any resemblance of control. Her body and mind were no longer communicating. She was working on instincts. Jack noticed beads of sweat forming on her forehead, upper lip, and chest.

Jack intentionally spent time on that spot. He wanted this. All of this. All of Elizabeth. But he wanted to go slow. He feared he was going too far, but her body demanded he continue his previous course. With one last sucking motion and a soft, almost imperceivable kiss to the small intention, he very slowly and deliberately kissed his way down her chest.

She felt his breath on her upper chest, just below her neck. It was invigorating. She thought she had already jumped off the cliff. But when she felt his breath and his lips on her skin, she found a whole new cliff to jump off. She arched her back, causing her chest to rise closer to him. He followed her body's demand and intensified the pressure of his lips. He was free falling into the eternity of Elizabeth Thatcher and was ever so grateful for it. Centimeter by centimeter, he kissed and sucked his way to the beginning of her cleavage. His breathing was increasing. He has never breathed so hard, even playing basketball. It was only matched by Elizabeth's quick breaths.

Elizabeth thought it took forever for Jack to work his way down to her chest. She loved every moment of his attention but thought it was taking too long. She has never been so conflicted with time before. She loved that he took his time and didn't rush things. She was lost in every sensation he was causing her, but he also took forever, and she hated it. She reached up with her right hand and took a handful of the hair on the back of his head.

"Jack…" She stated in a breathy tone. It took all her concentration to speak. "That…Feels…Incredible." She slowly spoke. She buried the back of her head even more when she could feel his smile against her skin.

With his lips still against her skin, he spoke. "I'm glad you are enjoying this."

She couldn't speak. She simply nodded her head as she pushed further against her pillow. With every sensation she was experiencing, speaking wasn't within her capabilities right now. The vibration of his voice against her skin as she spoke was just another reason to jump off the cliff.

When Jack reached the beginning of Elizabeth's cleavage, he touched the tip of his tongue to her skin that began the crease between her breasts. He brought his hand up and cupped her right breast. She leaned into his touch. With the lightest of pressure, he moved his lips slowly down and…

Elizabeth shot up in bed, gasping for air. She quickly looked around to see where she was. Her phone was chirping on her bed stand. Sweat was rolling down her forehead and cheeks. Her shirt was wet. She propped herself in a seated position with her hands. She looked around, trying to calm her mind. It was completely racing. She looked at both sides of her bed, but Jack wasn't there. Her sheets weren't messed up more than normal. The sun was coming through her favorite window.

"It's morning…?" She slowly spoke. She took a couple of deep breaths. She glanced at her phone. "It's seven…in the morning…" She stated that she slowly began to realize what was going on.

She flopped back on the bed. Her head landed on the pillow. "It was a dream…just a dream…holy cow…" She started as she wiped away some beads of sweat on her forehead. "But how…? It felt so real." She whispered. She closed her eyes and clasped her hands on her chest, trying to slow down her breathing and mind.

…

Jack lay in bed staring at the ceiling. He had a great time with the guys yesterday. It was nice just to hang out and chill with everyone all day. They all laughed and enjoyed the music time. No matter how well he thought he could, Shane simply couldn't sing. As close as the guys already were, they grew closer. Malachi and Shane joined the group effortlessly. They all gelled into a tighter group.

He missed being around Elizabeth. He was grateful they texted throughout the day. Like Cory and Steven, it wasn't all-day or ongoing texting. Every so often, one would send a text. It was usually something short describing something they thought was funny or a simple 'I miss you' text. They Skyped after all their friends left. Jack loved seeing her hair in a messy bun. He didn't dare tell her about it, thinking she would take it down.

He was looking forward to church today. He volunteered to help during children's church after Sunday school class. The kids were working on a project to make some small things to sell. They were raising money for a dorm in Puerto Rico. All the kids were participating, and the children's leader needed extra hands to help. Jack quickly volunteered.

…

Elizabeth lay in bed with her eyes closed, trying to remember each moment of her dream. It felt so real and wonderful. However, she was restless now with the faint sensation of Jack's lips on her upper chest. Still excited, she decided she needed to do something to work off the energy she was experiencing. While it was still cold outside, it wasn't too bad. She decided to go for a walk around the property. Maybe a couple of laps down the driveway will work off some of the bent-up energy that was demanding to be dealt with. As she was getting dressed, her phone chirped again. With all the emotions and sensations she was trying to deal with, she forgot about her phone. She sat on the edge of her bed to put her socks and shoes on. She had three text messages from Jack.

J – Good morning Bella

J – Did you know Independence Day didn't happen on July 04th Congress voted to free us from British rule on July 02nd

J – John Hancock wrote the first signed Declaration of Independence on July 04th to spread the word of the vote Now you know ;)

She could only shake her head at his silliness. She loved his funny nature, especially when he thought he was being funny.

E – Are you busy today

J – Just church and a little studying You?

E – I would like to see you

J – That would make it a perfect day

E – Great

J – Not going to say anything about my previous text

E – Too early for a history lesson

E – I have other things on my mind

E – Going for a walk before church

After putting on her shoes, she walked down the stairs into the kitchen. She wanted some water before heading out.

"You're up early?"

"Good morning, mother. I thought I would take a short walk before church."

"That's nice, dear. Are you ok? Your cheeks are red. Do you feel like you are getting sick?"

"No, Mother, I'm fine." She stated as she put her Air pods in her ears. She couldn't look at her mother. She still remembered every aspect of the dream. She just knew that if she looked at her mother in her eyes, she would know everything. "I'll be back in a few minutes." She quickly turned to walk to the front closet to grab her jacket.

"I think I need to ensure she is getting enough sleep," Grace whispered as she watched her middle daughter walk away.

After her second trip down the long driveway and around the water fountain, she realized this wasn't burning off the extra energy she hoped it would. So, she decided to jog the next lap. She couldn't remember ever jogging before. She ran in gym class and things like that, but never just jogging. Then she smiled at the reason why she was jogging. Jack's emerald eyes continued to pull her in each time she closed them. The only thing jogging was doing was making her breath heavier. Then she remembered her heavy breathing in her dream; all of the sensations were reliving themselves. She could still feel them vividly, as if Jack was in front of her, causing those sensations. She shook her head, trying to focus on anything other than Jack.

After two laps of walking and three jogging, she was exhausted but not any calmer. She walked into her home, ready for a shower. Maybe that would help her.

"How was your walk?"

"Good mother. I'm going to take a cold shower."

"A cold shower? Why in the world would you take a cold shower after walking outside in the cold?"

Elizabeth stood still for a few moments. "Did I say cold… I meant a hot shower. I guess my mind is on how freezing it is outside." She turned to walk up the stairs, trying to avoid eye contact with her mother.

"I didn't think it was that cold outside." Grace slowly started looking out and seeing the sun shining.

It's not too bad." Elizabeth stated as she began to ascend the stairs to her room.

"What's gotten into her?" Grace stated as she watched her middle daughter quickly climb the stairs.

…

Viola opened her eyes but had zero desire to move. Parts of her body were hurting in a way that she wasn't even sure she had before. Ted had invited her to church when he dropped her off at her dorm after working at the home. She agreed to go but was now seriously wondering if she could walk after all the work yesterday.

She loved the work. It was hard but very rewarding. Ted warned her a few times to slow down, or she would be sore. She just didn't heed his warning. Now, she wished she had. "If tomorrow is going to be worse than today, I may have to miss classes." She moaned as she tried to kick the covers off her. "Ouch!" she exclaimed when her feet hit the small carpet mat in front of her small bed.

She slowly went to the bathroom she shared with her dorm mate, hoping a hot shower would ease some of her hurting muscles.

"Are you ok?" Amy, her dorm mate, called out from under her covers.

"I'm not sure yet. Crap!" She hissed as she reached for the door handle to the bathroom door. "If I'm not out in thirty minutes, I have drowned because I can't move. Just call my parents."

"On it," Amy stated as she rolled over to fall back asleep.

…

Viola answered the door with a moan. Ted stood in front of her with a smile. He was excited to spend more time with her. Yesterday had been great, and he loved being with her the whole day.

"Oh…are you ok?" He asked when he saw her step forward and close to the door.

"No." She moaned again.

"I told you to…"

"Please don't finish that statement." She moaned as she tried to put her jacket on. Ted reached for it and held it as she turned around and put her arms in. He chuckled under his breath.

"Let's take the elevator. I don't know if you can handle the stairs."

"That's the best idea you could ever come up with." She reached for his extended hand.

…

"How's your foot?" a little girl named Susan asked Jack. He and his family had just walked into the church, which was in the foyer. Susan always made an effort to meet her friend, the eight-year-old who had broken her fibula a couple of days before Jack had sprained his ankle. They had injured the same leg. Their connection deepened over their hatred of crutches. Each one made sure to speak to the other during church services.

Susan was an adorable little girl with long brunette hair. She had a joyous laugh and a smile that could light up any room she entered. They became quick friends when Jack and his family began to attend the church Frank pastored.

Jack kneeled in front of his friend and offered her a big grin. His dimples showed through. "It's better now since I got rid of those stupid things." He nodded toward her crutches.

"I still have about four weeks or so with them." The disgust was evident in her voice.

"How's your leg?"

Susan repositioned herself. "Better. It doesn't hurt anymore. Now it just itches like crazy."

"I've heard that happens a lot. Hey, are you going to children's church today?"

"I am. We're supposed to be making some type of project to sell at church to raise money for missionaries or something."

"Yes. I'll be in there helping."

"Great."

Elizabeth walked through the doors and saw the interaction between the two. She thought the little girl was just adorable. "Of course, he had to be wearing those pants?" She mentioned under her breath. She could only stare at his backside.

Other than the counseling sessions with Frank after that horrible Monday, Elizabeth has never been inside the church. She certainly hasn't attended any church services. She was looking forward to hearing Frank preach. However, she was staring at the man she really wanted to see. Somehow, he was even sexier talking to the little girl than in her dreams last night. His genuine care for the little girl was admirable. He was really interested in talking with her. It wasn't for show or fake attention to pacify the young girl. She smiled when he fist-bumped the little girl. She drew her hand back, indicating an explosion.

"Hey Jack…"

"Yeah, Susan."

"There is a young lady over there staring at you. I don't know she is." She leaned forward to whisper to him. He was still kneeling in front of her. "It's a little weird."

"What does she look like?" He asked, not looking around.

"She's a little taller. She's petite with auburn hair and a beautiful, perfect smile."

"Susan, you are the one with the perfect smile."

"Stop being silly." She playfully smacked his shoulder.

Jack slowly turned around. He looked at a few people until his eyes found the auburn love of his life standing by the front door. His smile instantly grew at the surprise of seeing Elizabeth standing there. He slowly turned to face Susan.

"I know her."

"You do?"

"Yes."

"Why is she still staring then?"

"Do you remember I told you I was dating someone?"

"Yeah…Princess Beth."

"Yes. That's her."

Susan looked toward Elizabeth with a huge grin. Then she turned her attention back to Jack. Elziabeth could only smile at the scene in front of her. She just wished she could hear what they were saying.

"Jack…she's gorgeous!" Susan exclaimed.

"I think so too. Is she coming over here?"

"No, she's just staring at you."

After a moment, Susan's smile grew to where it lit up the foyer. She raised her right index finger and motioned for Elizabeth to walk over. Jack remained kneeling in front of Susan. He did turn his head after Susan motioned for Elizabeth to come over.

"Princess Beth…it's great to see you."

Jack stood up. "Susan, this is my girlfriend, Princess Beth. Princess Beth, this is my good friend Susan."

"Is your name really Princess Beth?"

"No, Susan. My name is Elizabeth."

"Why does Jack call you Princess Beth?"

"He's just trying to cause trouble." Elizabeth scrunched her nose at Jack.

"I like Elizabeth much better. It's a pretty name."

"Thank you, Susan."

"May I call you Elizabeth?"

"I would like that." Elizabeth gave her a warm smile. "How do you know Jack?"

"I met him at church. He sat in the pew behind me on his first day at church. When Pastor Frank said to shake the hands of the people around you, Jack touched my shoulder and introduced himself to me."

"That's very sweet."

"We became good friends then, but we really connected because of our hatred over these stupid things." She held out the crutches to emphasize her point.

"He really did hate them."

"It's great to meet you, Elizabeth. I had better go to my Sunday School class before my mother found out I was late. Jack, I'll see you later."

"See you soon."

The young couple watched Susan turn and hobble down the hallway toward the Sunday School rooms. She reached for his hand before turning to face him.

"So, Jarrick Thornton…you come to church and flirt with a beautiful young lady." She teased.

"Her smile lights up any room she enters, but it doesn't compare to yours." He honestly answered. "Your smile is…it's…" He tried to expand on his thinking, but the words weren't there. He squeezed her hand. She knew exactly what he meant.

"I think I need to watch the two of you." She playfully teased.

"You have my heart, Elizabeth…and my ring." He ran his finger over her ring on her finger. "I don't want them back."

"That's good because you are not getting them back….ever"

"I think she really likes you. She has heard all about you."

"She's adorable. Did you really have to say my name is Princess Beth?"

"She didn't know your name was Elizabeth." He laughed.

"Jarrick…I thought we were past that in our relationship."

…

"Are you giggling at me?"

"Viola…I'm a twenty-year-old man. I don't giggle!"

"Are you sure about that? When I had to try twice to stand up after the pastor prayed, I swore I heard you giggling."

"Viola…I don't think I have ever giggled in my entire life." He stood tall to prove his point.

"Sure, Ted. I don't believe you."

"Are you ready for lunch?"

"Since I'm your entertainment, you are paying." She poked him in the bicep.

"Deal." He exclaimed.

After a nice lunch, he suggested going to a store. She didn't really want to walk around, but she did want to be with him. He talked her into it. He pulled his car into a little strip mall with several stores.

"Where are you taking me?"

"My dorm mate's girlfriend is a massage therapist. She works here. I texted her, and she has an opening now. She said to bring you by."

"Ted, you didn't have to do that."

"If you want to walk tomorrow, you need this. You pushed too much yesterday."

"Yesterday was a lot of fun. I really enjoyed it."

"Me too. But you worked too much. I told…"

"I already told you once not to finish that statement."

Ted laughed. "Are you ok with this?" He nodded toward the storefront.

"If you help me out of the car and not giggle at me."

"Viola, I have already told you I don't giggle!"

Ted walked around the car and opened her door. He extended his left hand to help her up. She moaned, grunted, and said something under her breath as she slowly stood. He laughed but was able to keep the sound from escaping.

"Thank you," Viola said as she kissed him on the cheek. The next time we work on a house, remind me to stretch and go slower."

"I already…"

"Ted!" She warned him.

"You're willing to do that again?"

"I am. I really enjoyed that. It was so…it was so rewarding."

"It is. That's why I do it."

She looked at him for a moment. "I think it's more than just that. I think you are a good guy deep down," she said as he opened the door for her.

"Ted, how are you?" A young lady spoke until she noticed how Viola was walking. "Oh my goodness, what happened to you?"

"He worked me too hard yesterday, and I am sore."

"You went with Ted to work on the house?"

"I did."

This lady only looked at her and then turned her attention to Ted.

"Ted…you've never taken anyone with you before. She must be special."

"I believe she is, but it wasn't me who pushed and pushed yesterday. She has classes tomorrow, and I think she might want to go. I don't think she can make it like this."

"Oh dear. I'm glad you came by today. It will be worse tomorrow."

"That's what he said." Viola nodded toward Ted.

"Let's see what I can do for you. Please follow me."

…

After Sunday School class that they enjoyed, Jack led her down the hallway to the children's section. It wasn't a huge children's department or a huge church, but it was nice and very friendly. Elizabeth sat with him during the teen class. The smell of his cologne was driving her craze along with the vivid memories of her dream. She wanted a kiss but knew the church building wasn't an appropriate place for such affection. Even being in church couldn't keep the memories of her dream at bay. His cologne, his smile, his soft touch, and his eyes all brought the memories of his soft yet passionate touch back to the forefront of her mind.

Jack led the way into the children's room. When Elizabeth walked through, Susan immediately greeted her.

"Elizabeth, would you please sit with me?"

"I think she has already forgotten about me. I don't think you have to worry about her." Jack teased.

"As cute as she is, I'll watch her closely." Elizabeth winked and then walked to the table Susan was sitting at.

"Did you enjoy your class?"

"I did, Susan. It was very nice. How was your class?"

"It was good. So, how long have you dated Jack." Susan asked as he sat down beside Elizabeth. He sat close enough for his leg to brush against Elizabeth's leg.

"First part of school. So, about six months or so."

"Are you treating him well?"

"Susan, that's really an inappropriate question to ask someone you just met."

"It's okay, Jack. She is a good friend of yours, and she is just concerned—she has every right to be. Susan, I am trying my best to treat him like he deserves. He is a good guy."

"Good. I knew I liked you for a reason." She offered Elizabeth a huge smile.

…

"Well, you are at least walking better." Sassed Ted.

"I feel better now."

"Now?"

"I thought she was going to kill me the first little bit. I swore she was a three hundred-pound bodybuilder."

"I hear she's good at what she does."

"She is. She also told me a lot about you."

"Oh…" Ted paused for a moment. "I don't think I like that." He nervously chuckled. "Are we still dating?"

"She said you were a good guy who hasn't dated many girls. She was shocked you took me to the house yesterday."

"I don't know why she said that."

"Because that is an important part of you, and you love doing it. You don't share that with anyone, but you did me."

Ted shrugged his shoulders. He didn't know what to say.

"Thank you for sharing that with me. I loved working there, and I enjoyed spending time with you all day yesterday."

"Viola, you never did answer my question."

"We are still dating. I like you a lot. Now, what is the plan?"

"You still want to be with me after all day yesterday and today?"

"I do. I have some homework to do. Would you like to study together?"

"Sure. I must practice piano today. Would you like to go to your dorm and gather your books and notes? You can study while I practice piano at the music hall on campus. There are tables to study at."

"That sounds perfect."

…

Jack held Elizabeth's hand as they walked toward her car after the service ended. They loved working on the children's project that will be sold next week. Elizabeth quickly fell in love with Susan and the other five children in the class. She and Jack worked well together, and they enjoyed their time.

When they reached Elizabeth's car, he opened the door for her. Instead of getting into the car, she leaned against the back door. A few people were in the parking lot, but most had already left.

"Do you have plans?"

"No. Mother and father said they were going out to eat if I wanted to meet with them after services. I just have to let them know."

"Would you like to join us?"

"It's ok with your mother and father?"

"I haven't asked, but I think they would love for you to be there. They love you more than they love me."

"You know that's not true," she giggled. I'm grateful they like me." She reached for his hand and pulled him closer to her. Instead of standing beside her, he had to step in front of her.

"I would like to eat with…" Her voice trailed off when she looked at his lips. The sensations of her dream immediately came to mind. She could still feel his weight on her. She reached for his belt loops on the side of his dress jeans and pulled him against her. While she loved it, she realized she shouldn't have done that in a church parking lot. Every memory from the dream hit her like a ton of bricks. She felt the sweat on her upper lip beginning to form. "Jack…" She tried to speak.

"Elizabeth, I love you."

"I love you, Jack."

"I would love to eat with you and your family."

"Great. We are going to the Chinese place."

"Good. I like Chinese food."

"May I ride with you?"

"I was hoping you would say that." She bit her bottom lip. "You know, that's close to the Duck Park."

"You're right. It is. Do you have anything in mind?" He flirted with a silly grin.

"I have a couple of things in mind we can do." She responded with a flirty smile. And a couple of things I would like to do…but I promised I won't do until marriage… She thought to herself as she bit her bottom lip.

Jack rubbed the ring on her left finger. She knew he was telling her he loved her without saying the words. She sighed at the complete love for this guy. Somehow, Jack can draw her in with the littlest of gestures. She was more than willing to jump off the cliff with him.

"Let's go. I would like to have a proper kiss." She pushed him away to get him into the car.

…

Viola sat at the table in the music hall with her books in front of her. She had the tip of her pen between her front teeth. She was concentrating on studying her biology notes. Ted was playing the piano to fulfill his required playing time each day. She loved listening to him play, even when he just practiced. She just thought he had a gift. Somehow, his playing was just relaxing to her. It brought her such great peace. Her mind was always racing from one thought to another. His playing calmed all the noise in her brain.

She would often steal a glance in his direction. She thought he was so handsome as he concentrated on the sheet music before him. Half the time she glanced in his direction, she would catch him glancing in her direction. She was falling quickly for this guy.

The complexity of the nuclear aspect of the cell was driving her batty. She laid the pen down and let out a long sigh. Ted glanced up and noticed the frustrated look on her face. He shook his head when he noticed the biology book before her. While he looked in her direction several times, he only noticed her beautiful face. He didn't see a book in front of her. He knew the piece he was playing well. He really didn't have to follow along with the sheet music. "She looks so adorable when she is frustrated." He whispered to himself as he continued to play. He played well until she took the tip of her index finger and placed it on her bottom lip. Her mouth slightly opened. She moved her tongue between her teeth. When she did, he completely messed up playing the piece.

Viola quickly glanced up when he messed up the music. She saw his intense glare in her direction. His expression stole her heart. Her face instantly turned a little red. She giggled a little when he tried to begin the music again but only to mess it up three more times until he finally got it right. "Don't break my heart…" She whispered to herself when he looked back down at the keys on the piano.

…

Jack just took his shirt off and lay down in bed. He said goodnight to Elizabeth and hung up the Skype call. The day with her was perfect: church, lunch with his family, and a few minutes at Duck Park. He didn't understand why she was so passionate at the park, but he wasn't complaining at all. He loved every moment of it.

After spending some time at Duck Park, Elizabeth drove to the Chinese restaurant and enjoyed a great lunch with Thomas and Charlette. After lunch, she drove him back to the church so he could pick up his truck. Elizabeth asked him to come home with her. Julie was gone with friends, but her mother and father were home. They spent most of the afternoon sitting in the living room with her parents, chatting while they occasionally watched a movie.

His doctor's appointment was in the morning. He was so ready to be back out on the court. He knew the best case scenario would be limited action for a while, but he was still excited for the possibility. He just hoped the ankle was healing well.

Jack looked at his phone when it buzzed. It was a message from Elizabeth.

E – I miss you

J – We just spent the day together

E – I know but I still miss you

E – Are you sassing me

J – You sass me all the time when I say that to you

E – I guess I do

E – I miss you

J – I miss you

E – Jack…I love you

J – Elizabeth…I love you