The feeling you get when something happens to a favorite character on a television show or in a book…you know the gut-wrenching, heart-sinking feeling I’m talking about. It’s akin to real grief – well, as real as it can be for a fictional character you love.

Just such an event occurred last night – at least we think it did. Anyone who knows me, knows I am a #Heartie – a big fan of Hallmark’s When Calls The Heart. Last night’s episode left viewers with the assumption that Jack is dead.

Hearts were heard breaking (mine included) and Twitter lit up with messages from shocked fans outraged at the possibility their beloved Mountie Jack could be gone.

Why do we care so much about someone who isn’t real?

Why do we watch movies? Why do we read? It’s a break from a sometimes bleak reality to find joy in the stories the writers weave so beautifully. When the joy is taken away and replaced by sorrow, we tend to walk away. To much like real life, isn’t it?

I have no idea what will happen on next week’s season finale, but if Jack has truly been taken from the #Hearties, I fear the shock will have left the committed fans who are so enamored with Jack and Elizabeth in little awe of the season’s outcome.

I’m hoping the citizens of Hope Valley and all of the #Hearties receive a more positive outcome.