Bill's Reaction - Chapter 2
THANK YOU FOR THE KIND REVIEWS. SPECIAL THANKS TO MAMABETHANY FOR BETA READING MY STORY.
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Once Nathan knew for certain who was coming to Hope Valley, he admitted to being somewhat nervous about meeting this man and his entourage. He had never fit in with the well-to-do, and this time it was made worse, given his recent history with Elizabeth. So, he did the only thing he could think of – he reached out to Bill for advice.
Bill didn't disappoint. He advised Nathan that, while the Thatcher's are lovely people, there is no denying they are Hamilton Royalty and should be treated with the utmost respect and dignity. Remember, this is not a social visit; he is coming to claim his stolen vehicle. As for Charles Kensington, he once was considered to be Elizabeth's intended – if not by her, definitely by her parents. He had heard there may have even been a proposal, but he wouldn't say for sure.
As far as he was aware, Charles was now William Thatcher's right-hand man and by now had probably been groomed to run Hamilton Shipyards, once the elder man either retired or passed on. Ownership of the Company was a different matter; that would pass to his family – his wife, Grace and their three daughters.
Bill also took this opportunity to tell Nathan about the words he had with Elizabeth earlier on, and gently asked how he & Allie were doing, to which Nathan replied with a sad look, "We are both battered and bruised, but we are not broken. We are strong and we will both survive."
In an effort to lighten the mood, Bill added, "Well, the timing of this visit is certainly interesting. I promised not to comment any further on her personal life, and voila, just like that, her father is due to arrive. One would almost think that I called him but, on my honor as a judge, I didn't do it."
"However, I am just ornery enough to want a front-row seat when William Thatcher finds out exactly who his daughter is courting." He chuckled heartily and re-stated, "Oh yes, I want a front row seat."
Nathan gave him a smile that didn't reach his eyes and parted ways with the elder man. Now, he had to figure out how to treat Elizabeth's father and his associates 'with the utmost respect and dignity', when Elizabeth had shown none of the same, to him.
For once, the stagecoach arrived on time and Nathan was at the depot to greet the Thatcher party and officially welcome them to Hope Valley. He was thankful he had reached out to Bill. Once again, the man had proven to be a wealth of knowledge.
Nathan had immediately made arrangements for Allie to stay with Opal's family and he was going to bunk at the jail. That would free up the Grant row house for the three distinguished visitors from Hamilton. Even better, he didn't have to approach Lucas to rent the best rooms over the saloon.
As the men were descending off the stage, Nathan approached the older looking gentleman and said, "Mr. Thatcher, I presume? Welcome to Hope Valley, Sir."
William Thatcher extended his hand to Nathan and warmly greeted him, "Thank-you, Constable Grant. It is very nice to meet you, as well." He also introduced Charles Kensington and the family chauffeur, Benson.
Nathan looked surprised Mr. Thatcher used his last name, but chose to say nothing. As if he read Nathan's mind, he said, "Constable Grant, I always do my homework when dealing with competitors and constables. I must say, I am quite impressed with your record – both professionally and personally."
Nathan thanked him in reply and then politely inquired, "Is Mrs. Thornton expecting you, Sir?" Showing the small, crooked smile that Nathan is noted for, he went on to advise Mr. Thatcher, that he too believes in doing his homework.
"I'm very impressed, Constable. No, my daughter is unaware of my trip here, unless she has been apprised of our arrival?" Nathan assured him no such information had been shared from his office.
Nathan addressed the three men, "I'm sure you gentlemen would like to freshen up from your long journey. If you would be so kind as to follow me to your accommodations. Although there are rooms above the saloon, I thought you would be more comfortable in a private home setting. So, you will be staying in my home, for the duration. It is small, but it will serve its purpose."
"That was a very kind gesture, Constable. I do hope this will not be a great inconvenience to either you or your young daughter. Having been here before, I was aware there were no "suitable accommodations" and people of proper breeding do not frequent common saloons!"
Nathan somehow managed to keep a straight face, but was now secretly hoping to join Bill with a "front row seat", when the man before him meets his daughter's suitor.
Mr. Thatcher continued, "Now then, since we have put you out of your home, shall we dispense with the formalities? You may call me, William, this is Charles and our chauffeur, Benson. May we call you, Nathan?"
"Absolutely, Sir – er, I mean, William", he smiled.
As they walked through the town, Nathan felt a pair of eyes on them. He looked up and sure enough, there was Lucas standing above the boardwalk, watching their every move, teacup in hand.
As Nathan turned back to his guests, he missed a look of concern that flashed over Lucas' face. He recognized one of the three men, having had past dealings with him. It was unnerving to see them now in Hope Valley and, of all things, keeping company with the Town Mountie.