Unpacking was never Elizabeth's favourite task but the chance to relive the two weeks of treasured memories made in Hamilton made the task worthwhile. She hummed and swayed to rhythm of a song she and Nathan had danced to on their evening out, a night she wouldn't soon forget. Visiting with her far off family was so important to Elizabeth but somehow the weekend with Nathan had managed to overshadow it all in her memories, making her smile like a lovesick school girl every time she thought of their days together in the city.
There was no question in either Nathan or Elizabeth's mind that Hope Valley was where they belonged. The open fields, golden sunsets, and fresh air. The kind hearts, friendly faces, and loving community. Still, the chance to take in all that the big city could offer was an evening to remember.
Elizabeth was grateful to have regained her strength now that she was beginning her second trimester of pregnancy. The whole trip, much less their night on the town would never have been possible with how she was feeling just a few weeks before.
Opening the next piece of luggage, Elizabeth tenderly unpacked tiny sweaters and socks. Her mother bemoaned the fact that it was simply too early to throw a proper baby shower but knowing they likely wouldn't see Elizabeth again before the birth of this new little one, they couldn't resist a shopping trip together for Baby Grant.
Elizabeth's eyes misted over with tears. This new little life was already so loved. She was reminded of words she had heard many times, how the two would become one in marriage. This baby was the greatest testament of that love. Part him, part her, made one.
Her mind drifted back to her pregnancy with Jack. The deep loneliness she felt going through those months alone. Oh, she was rarely truly alone. Rosemary and Abigail wouldn't allow that. But she was always lonely for one who wasn't and would never be there again.
Perhaps that was why she struggled with Nathan's current assignment and absence. She knew Nathan's job required him to be away at times. She was well acquainted with the Mountie life but she hoped and prayed that this pregnancy would be entirely different. One where she could enjoy the stages and miracle of the life growing with in with the love of her life by her side.
Nathan was still in Capital City. Phone calls every evening shortened the miles between them but it wasn't the same. Now, back in Hope Valley for a couple days, Elizabeth found she missed Nathan even more. It would be so good to be in his arms once again. But with the investigation ongoing, she knew she would just have to wait.
The Summer sun shone high in the sky bringing with it a splendid warmth as the final days of July slipped away. It promised to be be another lovely, Hope Valley day. Sitting with her journal for the first time in weeks, Elizabeth noted it was only a few days until their first anniversary. She longed with her whole heart to be together to celebrate their special day.
In the most beautiful way possible, their first year of marriage had both flown by and seemed to last forever. So full of love and joy and healing. So rich with blessings and memories. And now, the promise of a child that would join their home in the new year.
Another Summer day passed, Elizabeth turned the page on her calendar, and still Nathan's phone call didn't bring the news Elizabeth desired to hear. Of course, she knew he was hoping to be home in time for their anniversary as well. He'd even said as much but such was the Mountie life. He couldn't always control his schedule even with a well earned promotion.
The next night, with a heavy heart, Elizabeth went to bed knowing she'd wake up alone on her anniversary. She tried to push aside the sadness, knowing there was nothing either could do and that their hearts would still be together, under the same stars even if many miles did separate them.
Still when she awoke the next morning, she instinctively reached for Nathan's side of the bed. Finding it empty brought fresh tears to her eyes. It was really true. Their first anniversary, the first anniversary she'd ever gotten the chance to reach, and she would be alone.
Elizabeth plodded through her morning routine, making breakfast for the children and washing dishes. She picked half heartedly at her own plate of eggs and toast.
Allie had remembered the significance of the day. She timidly handed her mama a card she'd made, sensing it wasn't what Elizabeth was really hoping for. But the simple, heartfelt card immediately brightened Elizabeth's mood. It was, in fact, the reminder she needed. This wasn't just their wedding anniversary, this was the anniversary of their family. The day the Thorntons and Grants became one.
Allie had long hoped for the love of a mother. Jack had never known the love of a father. Nathan and Elizabeth had found themselves unable to truly settle into a romance with anyone else. It was undeniable, they all needed one another. They were made to be a family, brought together by the hand of a Redeemer who could bring light after even the darkest nights. And they were worth celebrating.
Elizabeth hugged Allie, squared her shoulders, and took a deep breath before announcing, "Allie, Jack, get ready! We're going out for the afternoon!"
They looked at each other and then back at Elizabeth with smiles. "Are you sure, mama? I know you're missing dad," Allie asked, ever the perceptive and thoughtful young lady.
"I miss your dad every time we're apart but today is a special day. It's been 1 year since we officially became a family. We need to celebrate!" Elizabeth responded with a renewed lightness.
If there had been more warning, Elizabeth might have baked some cookies or banana bread. She would have put together thick and delicious sandwiches. She would have had apples on hand. But since they had only recently returned from their trip and her current condition had required a little extra rest to recover, it wasn't to be. Instead they stopped by the cafe, picnic basket in hand, ready to be filled with Minnie's tasty treats and satisfying sandwiches.
Arriving at the clearing that had hosted a family picnic for them nearly one year ago, Elizabeth spread blankets on the ground and then set out the food. Little Jack's laughter and tall tales kept them amused as their ate. Allie helped pack up when the meal was over. Taking a few minutes to soak in the beautiful day, they laid back on the blankets and watched the clouds float by.
"I'm really glad we did this, mama," Allie said with a smile.
Elizabeth reached for her hand and gave it a gentle squeeze, "Me too, my sweet girl. So thankful."
Three quarters of the Grant family meandered back home, enjoying the sunshine and the scent of flowers on the breeze. It was a beautiful day. Elizabeth sighed. It wasn't all that she had imagined but it was good. So good.
"I miss you, darling," she said under her breath.
Arriving at their home, Elizabeth was dreaming of putting her feet up and resting for a while. Jack had found crayons and paper and was content to draw, sitting at the table. Allie had picked up a book which she took out to the back yard to read on the bench.
Elizabeth was just drifting off into a nap when a short knock at the door roused her suddenly, before she could stand, the door swung open and in walked Rosemary.
"Elizabeth! It's a glorious day, isn't it? And you know what I always say - never let a moment of sunshine go to waste!"
Elizabeth laughed, certain she'd never actually heard those words before. Still she had to agree with Rosemary's estimation of this day.
"Let's go for a walk!" Rosemary proclaimed.
"Oh Rosemary, we just got back from a picnic and I'm so worn out. I'm not sure I could take another step." Elizabeth replied sleepily, wishing she could borrow a little of the energy Rosemary seemed to always have in excess.
She was feeling much better but had to admit, she tired easily at times. The hard work of growing a baby never took a break. Elizabeth smiled as she ran a hand over her stomach.
"We'll take an easy walk to the pond. The fresh air is good for you and baby," then Rosemary sat next to Elizabeth and became more serious, "I know it's your anniversary, Elizabeth. I just want to do something special for you."
Elizabeth hugged her friend, touched by her compassion and thoughtfulness. The pond did sound like the perfect place to enjoy this lovely day. Her mind drifted to a golden hour over a year ago where she had finally confessed her love to Nathan. If they couldn't be together today, she could at least be at this special place. A place that had shown up a time or two in their long history. She felt confident, if nothing else, he knew the answer to his long ago question in that very spot. He was in her heart. Now and forever.
"Okay, let me get freshened up a little and we can go for a walk." Elizabeth acquiesced.
When she descended the stairs a few moments later, Rosemary was quietly talking to Allie whose eyes sparkled as they spoke.
"Well let's get going!" Rosemary announced as she headed for the front door. Elizabeth stopped to say goodbye to Jack and Allie with brief hugs and then followed out the door.
Rosemary was right. This day was too beautiful to waste. Before long the cool winds of Autumn would arrive and then another winter would embrace the Valley.
Staying mindful of her expectant friend, Rosemary slowed her usual pace. The two took their time walking the familiar path to their scenic destination.
"Elizabeth," Rosemary stopped walking suddenly and took Elizabeth's hand in her own, "I want to tell you, I'm so thankful you found Nathan. The way he loves you is everything and more than I could have hoped for my dearest friend, my soul sister."
Easily emotional, Elizabeth's eyes filled with tears again. "Thank you, Rosemary. I don't know how I got so lucky. I miss him today."
"Oh I know," Rosemary crooned as she gently pulled Elizabeth into a hug. "Now, we're almost there. A chance to visit by the pond is just what you need."
As they neared the dock, Elizabeth heard the faint sound of a guitar playing. The melody drifted to her on the breeze and tenderly wrapped around her. She smiled. It was a favourite song of theirs. One they had dance to on their honeymoon.
Walking a little closer, Elizabeth could see the figure of a man sitting on the dock, guitar across his lap, strumming. It took less than a moment for her to realize, it was him. Nathan. He was there. He was home.
Elizabeth turned to Rosemary and realized from the look on her face that this walk had been a ruse.
"Take your time," Rosemary said quietly, "Allie and Jack are joining us for dinner and a sleepover."
Elizabeth, her face painted with surprise and delight, squeezed Rosemary's hand before turning to walk the rest of the path to the dock alone.
"Nathan," she called softly, overwhelming joy and relief catching her voice. At her call, he turned and stood. The love that radiated in his smile could have easily out shone the Summer sun.
"You're home," she managed as she closed the distance between them.
Nathan caught his beloved bride in a hug. He held her tight against him. The loving embrace quickly gave way to a frenzy of kisses.
"You're home," Elizabeth repeated again when their lips parted.
"Happy anniversary, sweetheart," Nathan whispered after another kiss.
"Happy anniversary, darling," Elizabeth responded breathlessly. "I'm so glad we're together today. Every day."
"I did everything I could to make sure I wouldn't miss this day," Nathan reassured her, gazing into her sky blue eyes, hands wrapped firmly around her waist. He watched as her blue eyes clouded.
"Does that mean you're leaving again right away?" she asked, dreading the answer.
"No, actually I don't have to leave at all. Most of the investigation is wrapped up and anything else I can handle from here." Nathan's words cleared the clouds and the sun shone again in her smile. "But enough about work. Tonight is about us, hunny," he finished with another kiss.
"Have I mentioned I'm the luckiest girl in the world?" Elizabeth said, a dreamy smile on her face.
"Maybe just a time or two," Nathan teased. Their laughter carried across the still pond.
"Sit with me," Nathan led Elizabeth to one of the stumps set up as seats on the dock.
"I wish I'd known about this. I would have changed and…" Elizabeth began, wondering exactly how she looked after her long day.
"You've never looked more beautiful to me, Lizbeth," Nathan replied sincerely. Carefully he placed a hand on her barely rounded belly, "And how is our little one?"
Elizabeth placed her hand over his and smiled, "Oh growing every day. I still feel tired if I do too much but mostly we're doing well."
"Well you just tell me when you're ready to go home," Nathan said with love and concern in his voice.
"Well in that case, I wouldn't mind taking you home right now," Elizabeth replied flirtatiously. Nathan chuckled.
Picking up the guitar, he began to strum again. Elizabeth leaned her head on his shoulder and closed her eyes, taking in every word as he began to sing, low and steady.
After a verse and a chorus, Elizabeth placed a gentle kiss on his cheek, "Oh Nathan, I love you."
"And I love you, Mrs Grant."
