The Second Visit
Nathan always loved Sundays in Hope Valley. Pretty much everyone was at church and it made his rounds so much easier. He was able to avoid most of the, interesting would be the best way to describe it, looks from the townspeople. He did not expect a huge welcome from the residents. And Allie had certainly made a less than favorable impression on her classmates. But Nathan hoped things would get better soon.
He steered Newton around the outskirts of town towards the cemetery. His gaze settled on the headstone that he had visited a week or so ago. He looked around and saw no one so he brought Newton to a stop and dismounted. He walked towards Jack's headstone which he noticed had settled a little. He frowned, a Mountie sat tall and erect in his saddle. The headstone should match that. He made a note to talk to Bill about it later. They probably could fix it if they did it quickly.
Nathan removed his Stetson and held it in his hands standing at ease. Nathan was not one to talk to graves, but since his sister passed, he no longer judged those who did. He cleared his throat. "Uh, Officer Thornton, I uh just felt that I uh…" Nathan paused, unsure what to say next. He cleared his throat. "Officer Thornton, you will be happy to know that your pension has been safely delivered to your wife, Elizabeth. She was happy to receive it." He opened his mouth to say more, then closed it quickly. He wanted this to be appropriate, yet heartfelt. "She seems to be an extraordinary woman. I have yet to meet your son. But Elizabeth…I mean Mrs. Thornton, being the woman and teacher that she is, must be a wonderful mother. I am proud to take this assignment in Hope Valley." He paused again. He bowed his head, raised it again and turned towards Newton. He replaced his hat and with a quick glance and nod towards the gravestone, headed back to where Newton stood.
Once he had mounted Newton, he turned towards the town and noticed some activity. He quickly rode towards the pond and finished patrolling the area. He noticed a large amount of people leaving the church. He hoped no one saw him. "Hm..maybe I should be taking Allie to church," he thought. "It would be a great opportunity to get to know Eliza—" His face twitched with shock at his own thoughts. "It would be a great opportunity to get to know other people." He smiled, that is more appropriate.