Chapter 62. The New Mountie and a Birthday Party
Shortly before 8 p.m., Julia left her apartment and walked to the Saloon. Faith and Fiona went early to set up for the Social Club, and Nathan was meeting her there, after dropping Allie off at Emily's for a sleepover. So, Julia walked over alone, that is, until Clara came out of the café at the perfect time, and met her in front of the Saloon.
When they walked in together, Julia blushed. Faith and Fiona had already set up an area in the back, complete with birthday decorations. And, Mike and Jesse were putting up the last of the balloons. Julia stopped in surprise, but Clara grabbed her arm and brought her the rest of the way, to the designated tables.
Faith and Fiona came and greeted an embarrassed Julia. Julia chided them, "You guys! I thought it was just a Social Club. What are all these birthday decorations doing here? It's not my birthday until tomorrow."
"Well, we couldn't let it just go past, Julia!" Faith replied.
"And, it's the perfect time to celebrate." Fiona told her. "Thanks for being born and giving us a good reason to get together." She said with a wink.
Mike and Jesse came over to say hello. Julia felt shy, she didn't like to be the center of attention. But deep down, she honestly loved to celebrate birthdays, just not her own. Mostly because it had been a really long time since she'd had anyone around to celebrate one of her's. So when she saw what the girls had planned, she felt a little overwhelmed.
At exactly 8 p.m., Nathan walked in with Rosemary and Lee. Julia had not expected to see the Coulters, but when they came over, Nathan explained. "Julia, I hope you don't mind, but I ran into Rosemary and Lee on the way in. They'd like to join us, if it's okay, since we are celebrating your birthday."
"Oh, wow…I'm honored. Thank you for coming, Lee, and Rosemary." Julia managed, touched that so many of her friends were here to celebrate.
Clara piped in, "Bill is coming after he finishes at the café. He wanted to celebrate with you, too."
Julia put her hands to her cheeks, a little overwhelmed, having a little trouble finding her words. "Wow, I feel so…blessed."
Nathan couldn't help but notice how beautiful Julia looked tonight. She was radiant in a wine color dress that fit her perfectly and accentuated her thin frame in all the right places. The color complimented her, and made her exquisite blue eyes stand out. And, he had taken notice of how quiet she had suddenly become, at the thought of her friends coming together, to celebrate her.
Finally, the group was gathered. Nathan had one more thing to say, and guessed now was as good a time as any.
Nathan looked at Julia, but spoke so that everyone could hear. "Julia, and well, everyone. I hope you all don't mind, but I also invited the new Mountie. He just got in today, and he seems like a nice guy. And, well, since it is a Social Club…"
Rosemary chimed in, with a broad smile. "That's so kind of you, Nathan. It's probably not easy to meet people in a new town."
"Yea, we don't mind at all." said Fiona.
Nathan looked over at the door and said loudly, "Look, there he is now."
The entire group turned and looked, and as soon as Julia saw who it was, she let out a huge gasp. With a look of complete shock, she glanced at Nathan and back at her brother, Jake, who had just walked in the door of the Saloon. When the full realization hit her, she squealed, hiked her skirts, and took off running. When she got to him, she leapt into Jake's arms. And, he spun her around, as he always did. Only this time, in a flurry of loud, excited greetings. The beautiful scene of squeals and delight caught the attention of everyone in the Saloon.
And just like that, the entire room was charged with excitement. Everyone stared with big smiles. Rosemary and Lee burst into animated laughter at the happy scene Jake and Julia made.
Faith's mouth fell open.
Fiona squealed too and asked Nathan, "You're serious? He's the new Mountie?"
Nathan couldn't take his eyes off the touching reunion of brother and sister. Not to mention, the sheer happiness on Julia's face. She was clearly thrilled, as she talked to Jake. Nathan saw her wipe her eyes several times. His heart was full, seeing her so happy.
Without deterring his eyes, Nathan answered Fiona, "He sure is."
Everyone was elated as Julia walked Jake over to the group, arm in arm. Mike shook hands and welcomed Jake. Faith smiled timidly and did the same.
Fiona shook his hand and said, "That was a good one, Jake! That's a surprise we won't soon forget!"
Clara and Jesse also welcomed him in a flurry of excited greetings.
And then, they came to Nathan. The group sort of crowded around, so Julia couldn't embrace him, like she really wanted to. But her face showed all of the intense emotion and appreciation that she felt. Julia stood there, gazing at Nathan, unable to say anything for a few long seconds. Dare she say, she was completely tongue-tied. All the things she wanted to do and say, were not permitted in public. So, she took a deep breath, wiped another tear, and tried to climb out of the deep well of emotions she was treading in. But, she made up her mind, right then and there, that she would tell Nathan all the things she wanted to say. And, she would do everything she felt in her heart to do. And, she would wait for the right opportunity to do it, when no one was watching.
Fiona piped in, "Jake, are you really the new Mountie in Hope Valley?"
"Yes, I am. Sure as I'm standing in front of you." He answered Fiona, but said it to all the group, since they were all crowded around to listen.
Julia's eyes were misty and full of emotion, as she looked at Nathan. "How on earth?" That was all she got out, as she fought the tears that were right there on the verge.
Nathan smiled lovingly back at Julia, and explained, "Well, for those that don't know, I'm being promoted. To a new Inspector Instructor position." He paused. He saw the worried looks on a few faces, realizing how that sounded, and quickly continued. "Don't worry, I'm not moving, my new position is right here in Hope Valley. But, since I moved up in rank, a vacancy was created, for the regular Mountie position. A few weeks back, my Commander asked me for a recommendation, for someone to fill that Mountie position. I have to be honest. I did think of Gabe first, since everyone here already knows him, but he's happy where he is. And, well, the next person that I thought of, was Jake. He just kept coming to mind, over and over, and I remembered how much he liked Hope Valley." Nathan looked at Julia. "So, it was just a matter of calling him up and asking if he was interested."
Jake piped in, "Nathan turned my name in to the Commander, and well, it moved pretty quick after that." Jake's face turned serious as he looked at Julia, "It was hard to say no to the chance to live close to my exceptional sister."
After Jake said that, Julia couldn't hold the tears back any longer. She quietly turned her head to look at the wall, to hide her face from the group, as she wiped her eyes and collected herself.
"And, perfect timing for her birthday." Rosemary piped in, clapping her hands together as she said it. She did love a good surprise, and what better time than around a birthday?
Lee told the group, "Sorry to crash your party, but when Jake arrived today, to stay at our house, he mentioned the birthday celebration. And well, we sort of invited ourselves."
"We do love a good party!" Rosemary said with a huge smile.
Fiona broke in, "We're so glad you came. It will be so much fun having you both with us!"
The group began to ask Jake questions about his move, and what it was like to leave Spruce Grove? How long was the train ride? How long will he stay with Rosemary and Lee? When would his things arrive? Did he have an idea where he would like to live?
Julia didn't manage to say much. She was overcome with emotion from the surprise, and the amazing news that her brother would live in the very same town. She took a few steps back, and no one seemed to notice. The group was crowded around and captivated with Jake, and finding out everything about his move. So, she slyly stepped back again, undetected. When she still wasn't noticed, she leaned over and grabbed Nathan's hand. He looked at her in surprise, but she just smiled and playfully pulled him away from the group. She kept ahold of Nathan's hand as she turned and tiptoed toward a random door in the Saloon, gently but quickly pulling him along with her.
Julia pulled him right through that door - a swinging door with a little, round glass window. She really didn't know anything about the Saloon, and didn't have a clue where they were headed, she just needed to get him alone. When they were on the other side of the door and it swung back closed behind them, Julia realized she had pulled Nathan into the kitchen. And, there was Gustave, on the other side of a huge table, stirring pots on the stove. He turned when they entered, and gasped, completely surprised to see strangers in his kitchen.
Gustave started talking loudly at them, "Qu'est-ce que vous faites ici? Vous avez trompé de porte, non?"
Julia just waved her hand at him, giggled and said, "Sorry, Gustave! We'll only be a minute."
Julia knew she needed to do this quick, before Gustave kicked them out. And, she had a lot to say.
Julia just shook her head in disbelief, at this amazing thing that he had done. "Nathan, I can't believe it." But, as she looked at Nathan, and saw how intensely he was looking back at her, suddenly, the words wouldn't come. She had a lot to say, but once she was gazing into his eyes, as deep as the ocean, none of it seemed to wanna come out. There was only the intense, raw emotion between them. So, she only managed, "You did this? For me?"
Nathan smiled down at her, wondering how she could not know, just how deeply and how ardently he loved her. "Yes, I did it for you." He said softly. "I would do anything to make you happy."
And, everything else she had wanted to say, all went out the window when he said that. Her restraint melted completely, and she was overcome by the desire to kiss him. Julia stood on her tiptoes, wrapped her arms up around the back of his neck and gently pulled his head down. She planted a huge, emotional kiss right on his beautiful lips. She kissed him with every bit of love she felt. Passionate, intense, and strong. Julia felt a few more tears fall, even as she kissed him.
And, as they were kissing, Gustave started talking to them, though neither of them really listened, "L'amour… l'amour… l'amour. L'amour est si beau. Beau comme un bouquet de fleurs. Et l'amour nous fait voir la vie en rose." He just kept going on and on, animating every word with his hands.
Finally, Julia couldn't help it, and she started to gently giggle, at Gustave. Nathan heard him too, and chuckled, against her lips. They reluctantly parted lips and gazed at each other, both giggling with amusement at Gustave, who continued to watch them and speak to them about love, in French.
Julia bit her lip shyly, as she tried to stop her giggles. She finally looked around Nathan, at Gustave and said, "Sorry, Gustave."
To which, Gustave replied with a huge, amused smile, "Il ne faut pas demander pardon pour ça, ma chérie! L'amour est un cadeau!"
"Ok. Thanks, Gustave." Julia giggled again, returning her gaze to Nathan.
But, when she looked at him, she was once again, undone. Julia's face changed and turned serious, as she told him, earnestly and honestly, "Thank you, Nathan." She stayed close and kept one arm on his shoulder, and put her other hand on his chest. "And, let's get one thing straight. You are what makes me happy." She looked at him with her own intense gaze, full of adoration and love. "Your love is the best gift I've ever been given."
"You are an amazing woman, Jules. And, I love you." He told her, and he bent to kiss her again. Long and slow and passionate this time. Julia clung to Nathan as the kiss simmered. And, finally, when it tapered, she could hear Gustave talking again.
"Vous faites un très joli couple, mais pourquoi vous êtes encore dans ma cuisine? Eh? Vous n'avez pas un endroit plus romantique pour faire ça?" Gustave kept on, but was now trying to shoo them out of his kitchen.
When Julia caught her breath she managed to tell him. "Ok, Gustave. Thank you for letting us hide in here. Sorry to disturb you."
"Revenez comme vous voulez, ma chérie. L'amour a toujours une place dans ma cuisine." Gustave said with a little wink.
Nathan chuckled and kept his gaze fixed on Julia. He smiled, unable to believe she had pulled him into the kitchen like this. He ran his fingers through his hair, still in awe of the two beautiful kisses they had just shared. And, how terribly romantic, the way they had hidden away in the kitchen, to steal them. This whole experience left a silly grin on his face, that he could not shake.
Julia smiled giddily up at Nathan, feeling the exact same way. She asked him, "Do you think they noticed that we are gone?"
He chuckled and said, "Do you really mind?"
Julia shook her head no. And then told him, very serious, "I love you, Nathan Grant."
Nathan bent and gave her one more soft little peck on the lips. And then, he glanced back at the chef, and sang out, "À plus, Gustave." Then, he took Julia's hand and led her back out to rejoin the group.
When Nathan and Julia walked out of the kitchen, they tried to hurry back over to the group, before anyone noticed. But almost everyone turned and looked at the two of them, with knowing grins. They were both caught red handed, and though they blushed, they both knew it was totally worth it. And well, since they were among friends, no one said any more about it.
"Okay, now that everyone is back, I would like to propose a little birthday fun. We're going to play a game called Cats and Dogs." Fiona told them.
"Ohhhhhh, I love this game!" Rosemary interrupted with a shout and lots of excited claps.
"First, we need two teams. Since we are even in numbers, we are going to play gals versus guys." Fiona suggested, everyone nodded their approval. "Mike and I took the liberty of hiding an entire deck of cards, right here in the Saloon! Cards are hidden anywhere in this room, and only this room. No need to go back into the kitchen, okay Julia and Nathan?" Fiona paused for the eruption of laughter, that came from the entire group, at her little joke. Julia covered her mouth, laughing hard. She looked over at Nathan, who was laughing, too.
Fiona continued, "Fellas, you are the "dogs" and are on a search for the black cards of the deck. Your team captain is Jesse. Gals, you are the "cats" and you are searching for red cards. And, your team captain is Clara. Anytime you find a card of your color, you have to make your respected animal noise, until the team captain comes and gets your card! Cats, you meow, dogs, you bark, until the card is collected. If you need a demonstration of how to bark or meow, Mike will be happy to oblige." Fiona paused, for more laughter, though Mike only smiled and shook his head at her.
Fiona continued, with a raised finger, "If you find a card of the opposing team, you can take it and hide it harder, better, and in a more difficult location. But, it still has to stay in this room. Okay? Everyone understand the rules?" Everyone nodded excitedly, ready to play. "Okay then, teams you have 2 minutes to confer before I say go."
They huddled into teams and quickly discussed strategy. When the two minutes was up, Mike gave a little whistle, and they were off searching for cards. It was a fun, jovial sight as they were all running around and searching. Some went behind the bar, others under the tables, and all went around other patrons in the Saloon. But, it was so upbeat and exciting that no one minded. Woofs could be heard at a pretty regular rhythm, and that kept Jesse on his toes. There were lots of meows too, and Clara ran around a lot.
Bill entered the Saloon, to join the party, in the midst of the action. He sauntered over to where Mike and Fiona were doubled over in laughter. He watched the group, barking and meowing, and was soon in stitches himself. They were quite a sight.
What made it even funnier was the family rivalry between Julia and Jake. They had obviously played before, and were running around hiding cards of the other team. Only, each time that Jake saw Julia in the process of hiding a card, he would be right there next to her, preventing her from doing so. Julia would pretend to get upset and try to get away from him, but he wouldn't let her. It became a game of chase at one point, that ended in Jake getting socked in the arm. That brought even more laughter from the onlookers.
However, while Julia and Jake were distracted with each other, and Rosemary was searching with Faith, Lee and Nathan were quietly and meticulously searching, with great success. They alone kept Jesse running around. And, soon enough, they had found nearly all of their cards. The only one they lacked was the one Julia was holding, and still trying to hide.
Lee called Jake over, and let him know about the status of their cards. They pretended to leave Julia alone, while Nathan quietly observed her every move. He was tracking her. And, he was ready to move, as soon as she let go of the last card. He had the general area pegged down pretty small, and was on it as soon as he realized she'd dropped the card. It didn't take him long to find it and let out the final woof.
Jesse presented their half of the deck to Fiona for approval, and the guys were declared the winners. The gals looked disappointed, but it had been so much fun, no one minded losing one bit.
Next, Fiona proposed a friendly game of charades, though she split the group differently this time. She made two teams by counting off, with guys and girls mixed together. Since Bill had made all the clues earlier in the day, she and Mike could play, too. Bill stood as referee and judge.
The game was quite a hoot with so many creative people in the group. Not to mention Rosemary and Fiona, who were both so animated. Nathan's team easily won the first round, and Julia's won the second. They decided to play a tie-breaker round, which was quite neck and neck. However, Julia's team pulled ahead by one, and garnered the victory.
Next, Faith suggested that everyone have a refreshment. The guys put the tables closer together and placed the chairs around. Everyone took a seat and Lee, Mike, and Jesse ordered everyone a drink from George, at the bar. When everyone was served, Faith and Fiona disappeared into the kitchen.
Before Julia knew what was happening, Faith and Fiona emerged with a cake and everyone began to sing Happy Birthday. Julia covered her mouth with cupped hands. She looked around the room at these wonderful friends, and felt…overwhelmed…and blessed. When they set the cake down in front of her, Rosemary told her, "Make a wish!"
Julia was stumped then, not sure what she could possibly wish for. Her heart felt so full, overflowing actually. She glanced around the group again, at her friends. Friends that she hadn't even known 6 months ago, but that were now so very dear to her. Julia started to open her mouth but closed it again. She looked at the candle, flickering and waiting for her to come up with something to wish for. She couldn't think of anything.
But then, she slowly turned her head and looked at Nathan, sitting next to her. And, she realized, there was one thing. One thing she dearly wanted. And, only one thing. And, it most certainly had to do with him. Dare she wish it?
She did.
Then, she blew out her candle. Everyone cheered, and she looked down at her beautiful chocolate cake and smiled. When she looked at Nathan, he was watching her, and she found it hard to take her eyes off of him. He looked so handsome in his navy blue suit. He had omitted the tie, and left the top buttons of his white shirt open, just the way that drove her crazy. She wondered if he even realized?
Faith pulled the cake over her way, and she and Fiona cut it, and passed it out. When Julia took the first bite, she knew exactly who had made it. Minnie.
Julia had seen Bill carry in the cake box. He was now sitting just on the other side of Nathan. So, she leaned back in her chair, and told him, "Thanks, Bill...for this." She said, holding up a forkful of cake. "My favorite cake on earth." Julia told him with a happy smile.
"You're welcome, kiddo." Bill told her. Julia wasn't sure she had heard right, but had Bill just called her kiddo? Julia smiled. Bill was certainly in the age range to be her father, and if he wanted to call her kiddo, she wouldn't object. She could use a little more father in her life.
Nathan had heard it, too, and smiled at Bill. He knew Julia would like it.
After everyone finished their cake and refreshments, Rosemary started passing gifts to Julia.
"What? Gifts? You guys didn't need to get me anything. Just having you here is gift enough for me!" Julia told them, objecting to the gifts. But, Rosemary insisted that she open them.
Faith, Fiona, and Mike had gone in together to get her a nice medical coat to wear in the infirmary. Embroidered on the lapel was her title, though they had not put her last name. It simply said Nurse Julia, and on the other lapel was the beautiful new logo that Fiona had designed, for the Hope Valley Infirmary.
Rosemary and Lee had gotten her a lovely leather-bound book of sheet music for the piano. And of course, inside was a section titled Show Tunes. Rosemary made sure to show her that, and suggested that they play some later, on the piano in the Saloon.
Clara and Jesse gave her a nice scarf, from the dress shop. It was one that Clara had noticed Julia admire a few times, when she had been in. Julia was very touched that Clara had remembered.
Julia was clearly blessed by the gifts, and she stood and went around and thanked each person individually.
When Julia came back and sat down, Mike cleared his throat. "Everyone, I would like to propose a sort of game, that we used to play in my house. It's called On The Spot." Julia looked worried when he gave the title, but Mike only chuckled. "It's very simple. Tonight, Julia is the birthday girl, so we, her friends, are going to put her On The Spot. That means each of us, one by one, can share something that we admire or appreciate or like about Julia, in order to bless her. So, be thinking of what you would like to say. And, we can start to Julia's left, with Fiona, and move around the circle clockwise. Does that sound like fun?" Mike asked everyone.
They all agreed, so Fiona took a few minutes to think of what she would like to say. Finally, she started. "Julia, I love your kindness. You always know just what to say, to encourage or to calm, to pick up or to push. You bathe everything you do or say in love, and we all feel it. You are an exceptional friend, I knew it from the first day we ate dinner together in the café. And, I know I can count on you. Thank you for being my friend." Julia's eyes watered as Fiona finished, and she just nodded, unable to say anything.
Next to Fiona was Faith, and Julia was not sure she was going to like this game. Way too emotional, and she didn't like being put on the spot.
But, before she could object, Faith started to share. "Julia, when I placed the ad for a nurse, I never banked on getting you. You came into Hope Valley like a breath of fresh air, after a very difficult season, for a few of us." Faith looked at Nathan when she said that, knowing the same was true for him. "If I speak honestly, the truth is that I was apprehensive and scared to work alone in the infirmary. But, you came and supported me in a way that made me a better doctor. Even though I was inexperienced and new at doctoring, you have never overstepped, but are a perfect compliment. I love our working relationship, and our love our friendship even more. Everything Fiona said is true. You are a wonderful friend, and I'm so glad to have you. And, I love our trio!" Faith finished, and Fiona and Julia looked at each other, knowing what she meant by the trio. Julia quietly wiped her eye, still not able to say anything.
Jake sat next to Faith and looked at Julia, trying to think of just one thing to say about her. "My list of things I admire about my sister is way too long, since I've known Julia all her life. All the way back to pigtails and frogs in lunch pails." The group all laughed at his little joke. "So, tonight, I'll just pick one thing." And, just like that, Jake turned serious. "Julia, you are one of the strongest people I have ever met. And, that says a lot since I'm surrounded by tough guys all day long, in my line of work. But, you." Jake paused a moment. "You have a quiet, gentle strength about you that just overflows and spills over onto those around you. And, I'm probably one of the few people who know all that you've…all that we've been through." Jake paused and looked at her, "I don't know if it's because of those hardships, that you became strong. Or, perhaps you were just always strong, and your strength, as you endured those difficult times, preserved your beautiful outlook on life, and your positive attitude. But, not many people come through tough times with such grace. I know it's because of your faith, that runs deep and carries you. But, your strength is very beautiful, Julia. And, it inspires all those around you." Jakes discourse caused a few tears to fall, and Julia breathed deep trying to keep her composure. She didn't know how many more of these she could handle.
Luckily, Mike was up next, so hopefully it would be a lighter or at least, a funnier one. "Julia, we haven't known each other that long, and we don't know each other that well. But, I have always appreciated your sense of humor. You are not someone who makes jokes all day long, or tries to be the center of attention. But, when you do say something funny, it's always perfectly timed, and perfectly funny." Mike paused, but then decided to add something else. "I'm a quiet guy in town, Julia, and sometimes I get overlooked. But you always made a point to say hello and to include me. You have always seen me, and acknowledged me as much as anyone else, and I appreciate that."
Next in line was Rosemary, who teared up as soon as it was her turn. Julia teared up too, just looking at her. Rosemary took a deep breath and tried to say what she really wanted to say. But, the most important thing was too private. "You know, Julia. You know, what I would say." Rosemary paused and tried to figure out how to say it, without giving anything away. "I agree wholeheartedly with Mike. Julia, you see people. And, you don't just skim over the hard parts and pretend they aren't there. You look at them, too. You aren't afraid to acknowledge the difficulties and the pain, and you don't just sit idly by. You try to help. You ask yourself what you can do to help carry that burden, or to help better the situation, and then, you do it. Or, at least, you try. You are not afraid of putting yourself on the line, and taking a risk to help others. I love that about you."
Lee was up next, and he looked at Rosemary and then back at Julia. "Julia, I have to agree with Rosie and with Mike. You see people's hurts and hardships, and it moves you to action. That's called compassion. So, I admire your compassion."
Jesse was seated after Lee, so he went next. "Julia, we don't know each other very well. But, I admire all the hidden talents that we are getting to learn about, the more we get to know you. Like the darts. That Social Club was such a fun night, and so unexpected. You and Jake really schooled us, and that showed your sense of humor, too. I thought you were pretty cool, the way you handled yourself, that night. And, when you and Allie and the girls painted the Founder's Day booths, that was so unexpected. You add something new and interesting to this community, and Clara and I are glad you're here."
Clara was up next and said, "I think everyone already stole the things I wanted to say!" She let out a nervous giggle. "So, I'd like to agree with Mike and Rosemary about you being someone who sees other people. As well, I have noticed your strength and admire that about you." She paused, "And, all the times you have come into the dress shop, it was mostly for things you really needed or when you were buying something for someone else. You are not extravagant or fancy, though you could be easily be, because you are so pretty. But instead, you are down to earth and a friend to everyone you meet. And, I like that about you."
Bill was next, and he, of course, was a man of few words. "I have to agree with your brother, Julia. When Nathan got hurt, you were strong, and I was impressed. And, it's not easy to impress me, ask anybody." Bill paused and glanced around the group, then fixed his eyes back on Julia. "You kept your cool, took charge, and took care of Nathan in a way that had us all amazed. You were committed to giving him the best care possible, and I'm convinced he got it. And, I know you'd do the same for any of us. So, I admire your strength, too." Everyone in the group nodded in agreement, at Bill's statement. He wasn't easy to impress.
Next was Nathan. Julia looked at him, and was already tearing up. She decided it was safer to look at the empty plate in front of her, instead of him. "The first time I met Julia, I interrupted her, although I should probably say I caught her, running through flowers." Julia looked at him with a shy giggle, as he said that. And, she managed to keep the tears at bay, and to keep her gaze on him for the rest. "At first I thought it wasn't real. This beautiful woman running through a field of wildflowers, headed straight for me, as I rode on Newton. But then, I realized she was very real." He paused and looked around the group. He didn't want to say too much, but he had been so impressed by what everyone else had said about her. All were things he already knew to be true about Julia, but hearing it from everyone else, reaffirmed just how wonderful and special she really was. He fixed his gaze back on Julia as he said the rest. "I knew right then and there, that you, Julia, would be the one to fill my life with flowers."
"Ooooh…" Rosemary said, swooning and placing her hands over her heart. "How romantic." She whispered.
Fiona, Faith, and Clara, all softly said, "Aaawwww."
And, well, Julia was once again speechless. She just leaned over towards Nathan, grabbed him, and hugged him. She didn't care who saw. She didn't care about social convention or rules of proper etiquette. She just had to hold him in that moment. And, she buried her face in the crook of his neck, on the side where no one could see.
It was one of the sweetest things she had ever heard in her life, and she couldn't help the emotion that came welling up. Julia felt a few happy tears fall, from a heart that was overflowing. From a heart that was loved well.
Julia whispered so that only Nathan could hear, "I love you." And, since no one could see, she planted a kiss right on the racing pulse of his neck.
As they pulled back from each other, Nathan whispered ever so softly in her ear, "I love you."
Rosemary piped in, as she saw both Nathan and Julia trying to compose themselves. "Well, Mike, that was a wonderful game. I think we all need a handkerchief now!" She said with a huge chuckle.
"I'll second that!" Faith said, with a light giggle.
"Yes, very nice game, Mike." Fiona said, "Though, you guys are way to deep. Now I'm all emotional."
Mike piped in, "Well, just wait until it's your birthday, Fiona!"
"No way, Mike." Fiona said with a chuckle, wiping her eyes.
Clara, Fiona, and Faith started stacking plates and cleaning up. They carried everything into the kitchen. When they came back, Gustave came with them.
When Julia saw him walking over, she looked at Nathan, with a worried face. But, Gustave just walked right up to Julia and gave her "les bises", a kiss on each cheek, in the typical French way.
"Joyeux Anniversaire, ma chérie." Gustave said to Julia. "It was a good burt-day?"
"Yes, it was wonderful, Gustave. Thank you." Julia told him. She really hoped Gustave wouldn't say too much, or anything at all about how she and Nathan had hidden away in the kitchen.
"It looked very good from where I was cooking." He told her, with his strong accent, and a knowing smile.
"Okay, okay Gustave. Merci!" Julia told him, trying to stop him from going any farther, her cheeks bright red now.
Nathan could only chuckle, and watch with amusement.
Julia noticed Nathan smiling at her, a little too amused. She leaned close to him and whispered, "Thanks for the back-up, Lawman. Last time I pull you into the kitchen."
That cute comment caused another big chuckle from Nathan, but sent him into action. He came over next to Gustave and said quietly to him, "Our secret, remember?"
"Oui, bien sur, mon ami." Gustave told him, with a little wink.
Once everything was cleaned up, and the party over, everyone started to say their good-byes. Julia came over next to Jake, who was standing and talking with Fiona and Mike. She was still unable to believe that he was actually here.
"Where are you staying big bro? Did I hear Lee say that you are staying with them?" Julia asked.
Jake responded, "Yes, Rosemary and Lee offered their guest room for the time being, until I can find a more permanent solution." Julia wished her apartment was bigger.
Mike spoke up and offered. "Jake, I have an apartment above the mercantile. It's a two bedroom, and my room-mate, Kevin, is moving out in about 10 days. He's going to live out at the new housing that Lee just built on the outskirts of town, for the mill workers. He's going to oversee things out there. So, I will have a room open, if you're interested?"
"That might work out perfect, Mike. Could I come over and take a look? And, talk details?" Jake asked, excited about the possibility of being so close to Julia and the Mountie office. And, Mike seemed like he would make a good roommate.
"Sure, you can take a look anytime. I'm sure Kevin won't mind." Mike told him.
"Ok, I'll track you down at your office, next week." Jake told him.
"Great." Mike said, excited at the prospect of having a new roommate. He thought Jake was cool.
Lee and Rosemary came over and excused themselves. Rosemary was feeling quite tired, and they were ready to head home. They offered Jake a ride, and since he was also pretty tired after his long day of travel, he decided to call it a night.
"Jules, can I take you to lunch after church tomorrow?" Jake asked her.
"That would be lovely, Jake. I'll meet you at church, since you are coming from the Coulter's." She told him.
"Ok. See you tomorrow then, Sis." He said and kissed her on the cheek.
Lee and Rosemary also said their good-bye's, and Julia thanked them for the lovely gift. Julia promised to work on some show tunes, so that next time, she could play piano and Rosemary could perform for everyone.
Julia walked over to Fiona and Faith and hugged them both. "This was an amazing party, ladies. And, it was so much fun! The games were hilarious. Fiona, you are the hostess with the mostest!" Julia told her, and she meant it. "And, thank you both so much, for all of the birthday attention. I can't even remember the last time I had friends and family around me for my birthday."
"It was our pleasure, Julia. You deserve a little fussing over." Faith told her.
"We appreciate and love you, Julia." Fiona added.
"Well, I love you girls, too." And, Julia hugged them both again.
Next, Bill walked up, to say good-bye. Julia hugged him, and told him, "Bill, thank you so much for your sweet fatherly words. They mean a lot."
"I meant everything I said, kiddo." Bill replied. "Hope your birthday only gets better and better." That made Julia think. She still had the entire day tomorrow, and had no idea how she would fill it.
"Thank you, Bill." She told him with a shy smile. And, she reached up and kissed him on the cheek. Bill gave her his lopsided grin, told her good night, and started home.
Nathan walked up behind Julia, titled his head, and smiled at her. "Can I walk you home, Jules?"
"I was hoping you would ask." Julia told him with a sweet smile.
"You were?" He asked her, feeling a little bit flirtatious. She picked up on it, and decided a little teasing might be just what they needed.
"Well, I was really hoping Gustave would offer. But, since you are here." Julia teased him, which got a huge belly laugh from Nathan. He shook his head at her, and bent to pick up her sack of gifts, to carry them for her.
Julia happily hooked her arm through his, as they headed for the door. They walked slowly through the center of town, enjoying the cool breeze. The evening was beautiful, and the sky so full of stars. Neither wanted the evening to end, so they took their time as they walked, and enjoyed just being together.
Julia looked up at him, and he looked down at her. "It was a fun evening, wasn't it?" He asked her.
"The best. And, Nathan, the surprise of my life. My brother. I still can't believe it. How ever did you manage to keep that secret?" Julia asked him.
"It was not easy. I almost slipped up so many times." Nathan told her.
"Does Allie know?" She asked him.
"No way. She would never have been able to contain herself." Nathan answered.
"So more surprises tomorrow at church, this time for Allie?" Julia surmised.
"Indeed. I think Allie has a little teenage crush on Jake, so she will be very happy about his arrival." Nathan told her.
"Well, she might be otherwise occupied now. Robert was falling all over himself yesterday in the café, because of Allie. He was quite tongue-tied the one time he actually managed to speak to her, and then he kept looking over at her, as he sold copies of the Valley Voice." Julia told him. "You might have to keep an eye on them."
Nathan knew about Robert already. He was a good kid, but Allie was still so young. "This thing with Robert is not a new thing. He's like-liked her for a while." Nathan said, with a chuckle, using Allie's very own terminology. "But it has also had it's moments of on-again, off-again. So, I've already got my eye on it." Nathan looked down at her and smiled, "What she might need, though, is a woman to talk to about it. She doesn't really like to talk to me about these kinds of things."
"Ok. Wow, I never thought of that. You are just so wonderful with her. But, I'd be happy to see if she needs a woman to talk to, about it." Julia told him.
They arrived at her apartment door, and Nathan set down her bag of gifts. He took both of her hands in his. "Julia, will you come for dinner at our house, tomorrow evening? A sort of birthday dinner?"
Julia didn't know if she could handle any more sweetness from Nathan. It was already too much. "Nathan, I already feel so blessed."
He looked at her and had to be honest. "There's more, Jules."
Julia smiled timidly up at him, "There's more?
Nathan chuckled at her. "Of course there's more. Allie and Grams and I want to celebrate you. And, I already invited Jake, as well. If you are up for it, of course."
"Well, I'm always up for more of you." She told him, with a tender smile. "And well, Grams and Allie, and Jake, too." He liked that answer. "What time?"
"6 p.m.?" Nathan asked.
"6 p.m. it is, my love." She answered with a happy smile.
"But, I will see you at church, right? Can I save you the usual place?" Nathan asked her.
"Yes, please. And maybe save a little spot for Jake?" Julia asked.
"I can do that." he told her.
Nathan realized how hard it was to say good-bye after such a wonderful day. He gazed down at Julia and reached around her, and pulled her close. She brought one hand to gently touch his face, her thumb rested tenderly on his cheek. "Nathan, I don't know what to say. Jake, the party, the things you said." Julia paused to take him in. "I'm overwhelmed. And, nothing seems deep enough to express what I feel, words seem inadequate to articulate what I want to say."
He leaned down and came very close. "Then just say you love me. That will always be enough for me."
"I love you, Nathan. Deeply." But, it still wasn't enough. She needed to express something deeper. "You are the only one for me." She needed to go deeper still. Julia brought her mouth closer, and their lips were almost touching as she whispered, "Nathan, I will ever love you. And I will love you to my last breath."
At her intense declaration, Nathan pulled her even closer. He brought her body against his, as he brought his lips the rest of the way. When their lips met, slow and gentle, he felt the fire immediately. The kiss quickly deepened, and they were instantly in the deep, together. She felt overwhelmed by emotion, and clung to him to stay upright, as the kiss didn't end. Perfectly expressing the love between them. The deep, beautiful, intense love they shared. A love without end.
He pulled back a little to tell her something. Something he had to tell her. There had never been anyone else for him, and there would never be another. So, he wanted, he needed to say it. And, he said the words right against her lips. "And, I will always love you, with everything in me, until my last day. Only you can light this fire in me. Only you, Julia."
Nathan almost proposed right then and there. But, the ring wasn't ready, and neither was the place. He had a plan, and he was currently setting his plan in motion. But, he very nearly threw all of that into the wind, and almost asked her right then and there. It would have been lovely too, because it would have been true, and honest, and them. But, like their first dates, Nathan wanted to make it special. Because, after all, he would only do it once. And, he wanted it to be everything that it should be. For them. So, he bit his lip…hard...and he waited.
But then, Nathan realized there was an even better way to occupy his lips, so he just bent down and kissed her again. Long and simmering and sweet. And, when they both pulled back, he smiled down at her, absolutely happy into every cell of his body. She gazed back up at him, equally as happy. And, he was absolutely certain that everything they had shared, and everything they had said, was absolutely true to the letter. He had never been more certain of anything in his life.
He kissed her forehead, her nose, her dimples, her chin, and then gave her one more little peck on the lips. Then he slowly and reluctantly stepped back. He picked up her bag and handed it to her, and watched as she walked to the door. Julia stopped there and gave him one more little wave as he backed up and turned to go. She stood there, hand on her doorknob, until he was out of sight. And, Nathan walked home, entirely happy and floating on a cloud, all the way.