CHAPTER 6 - HELLO IM ELIZABETH THORNTON

Nathan went over his schedule for the day as he was eating breakfast. He was so glad his household goods arrived yesterday evening. He was tired of sleeping over the saloon and Allie was due to arrive in two days on the afternoon train. Nathan found himself tearing up because he missed her and felt like a part of him was missing. Thinking of Allie made him realize he had yet to introduce himself to Mrs. Thornton and talk with her about his niece starting school. He also needed to give her Jack's pension that was way overdue to be paid out. He thought he would see if Bill would go with him after he changed out of his uniform to make it easier for her. He had made a point of changing out of it when he had to go near the rowhouses so he wouldn't run into her. So far, they hadn't managed to come across one another during the day when he was on paying for breakfast, he went by the livery to get Newton so he could do his morning rounds. Afterwards he went to work on some neglected paperwork before going to see Mrs. Thornton at her home.

Nathan was so immersed in the paperwork he lost track of time. As he was finishing up, he sensed someone standing at the door of the Jail. At first, he was speechless and could only stare at the beautiful woman in front of him. He had met other beautiful women, but he never had one affect him, so quickly and profoundly, like she did. The serge tended to attract a lot of female attention and while other Mounties used it to advantage, he never did. He had gone to a few town dances with fellow Mounties and met a few women that seemed interested. But he also tended to be shy and was not a big talker and so they figured he wasn't interested and moved on to his relief. Nathan had always intended never to marry so he didn't want to waste their time or his. Unlike Jack Thornton he never found a woman that interested him enough to change that stance. Of course, three years after he became a Mountie Nathan lost his sister Colleen and became the guardian to his four-year-old niece. Then his focus became totally focused on his job and raising his niece by himself. It was a bit daunting at first because he hadn't had much of an example to go by in his own Father. But over the years he and Allie finally managed to figure it out and now they were closer than ever.

He began to wonder if he found the woman who might just change his stance on marriage like Jack Thornton had. He was still trying to gather his wits so he could the find words to speak intelligently when she spoke. But any hope he had of pursuit quickly died as he learned exactly who she was.

"Hello" she said.

"Ma'am?"

"I'm... Elizabeth Thornton."

Nathan immediately felt guilty for his thoughts right before she spoke. After quickly pulling himself together he stood awkwardly to greet her. She was younger than he had originally thought and completely opposite what he expected. As Nathan stood there in the office looking at Elizabeth Thornton, he could begin to sense how special this woman was. It had to be hard to see another Mountie standing in the office that was your husband's a year ago. She probably spent a lot of time in here over the years together with Jack. But somehow, he knew she was there to make him feel welcome, ignoring her own feelings to do so.

"Mrs. Thornton, it is an honor to meet you. I never served with your late husband but by all accounts, he was an excellent Mountie."

"He was an excellent man Constable Grant."

"Of course. Please accept my sincere apology Mrs. Thornton. But in my mind Mounties like Jack Thornton are always the best of men." Nathan added.

"Thank you, Constable that was very kind, but no apology was necessary."

"Before I forget I need to give you Jack's pension especially since it was long overdue. I had intended to come to see you before now and introduce myself. I didn't want you to have to seek me out here as I'm sure it is very hard for you.

"Thank you for bringing it Constable Grant I really needed this. I had forgotten about it because I filled out the paperwork over a year ago.

"Well, the Mountie HQ bureaucracy is not always known for speed except under certain conditions. I'm glad I could bring it in time to ease your burden."

As Nathan stood there in the office looking at Elizabeth Thornton, he could see how special she woman was. Mrs. Thornton was a very lovely, courageous, friendly and compassionate woman. It had to be hard to see another Mountie standing in the office that was your husband's a year ago. She probably had memories of all the time they spent in here over the years. He knew it couldn't be easy to see him there and it was probably stirring up a lot of those memories. It was one of the reasons he had wanted to go to her and save her from seeing him there their first meeting. Bill had told him he would let her know about the new constable assignment. But with his furniture arriving and trying to get settled before Allie came time got away from him. He couldn't help but admire this brave young woman in front of him. She had put her concerns for making the new Mountie feel welcome ahead of her own feelings. She moved up even further in his admiration when she took him outside. I had intended to come to see you before now and introduce myself. I wanted to spare you first meeting me here as I'm sure it is very hard for you." As she began speaking of the town and her first days, he realized she knew how the town treated him. He was aware that people walked by as they stood outside talking but he couldn't take his eyes off her.

Nathan now knew why Jack Thornton had changed his plans from never getting married to marrying Elizabeth Thatcher. He could also see why Jack proposed before he left to fight in the Northern Territories and married her as soon as he returned. The love from a woman like her was something you didn't want to take a chance of losing or could ever walk away from. When he realized that she was trying to gain acceptance of the town for him by her actions it warmed his heart. Somehow Nathan knew that he was in trouble because he was still having to fight the intense attraction and quickly growing admiration for her despite her identity. He wasn't sure he could hold out long against all the wonderful traits that she had exhibited in just the short time they talked. As she began walking away, he couldn't take his eyes off of her. He had a feeling she was going to quickly steal his heart if he wasn't careful. But as he saw her look back at him maybe it was already too late. He saw it startled her when she realized he was still watching her, so he just smiled a little and tipped his hat hoping it wasn't obvious how he felt.

ELIZABETH'S POINT OF VIEW

Elizabeth sat at her table eating breakfast and thinking of the new Constable Nathan Grant. She remembered when she first arrived in Coal Valley and how skeptical the town was of her. So, she could understand how the Mountie was probably feeling. Bill, Abigail and Rosemary had told her how unkind the townspeople have been. Though hadn't said unkind things about him they didn't make a move to welcome him and look at him with suspicion. It was hard to see someone in that office and they probably wondered what it meant for Bill. Jack Thornton had been the very first Constable of Coal Valley and the town had loved him deeply. They all doted on his son who clearly resembled his father. They knew how deeply his death affected his widow and they worried a new Mountie could send her back there. It was hard to see someone in that office that was once Jack's place. They probably worried about what the new Constable assignment meant for Bill as Sheriff which really doesn't help endear him to the town.

'Of course, it probably didn't help when Bill put him jail for doing his job.' she thought chuckling. 'Which didn't endear him to Bill either since he was the Sheriff the Mountie should have introduced himself when he arrived instead of "sneaking" into town. He was still irritated by that whole situation because he never likes being caught off guard. Bill still hadn't exactly rolled out the red carpet for the Constable and remained distant. A new Constable being assigned was a constant reminder to Bill, who still grieved, that Jack was gone. Since Bill was appointed by Jack as the Sheriff, in his view this Mountie was trying to "usurp" what he considered his responsibility. One that since Jack entrusted this town to him and never returned to change it, was a lifetime appointment. "I may have to share space with him." he had told her "But I'm not going anywhere, and he is just going to have to get used to it." She just hoped that as a former Mountie Inspector he would understand what Nathan Grant was dealing with too. It might make it easier for them to share responsibilities and help Bill with his grief. But she knew that no one would ever replace Jack in his heart. Though I don't know Constable Grant, I think he probably understands how Bill is feeling. Jack once told her that the Mounties were like a brotherhood always watching out for each other. Elizabeth had seen it between him and Jack many times and hoped it would be the same with them.

The Mounties also watched out for the families of fallen brothers. She herself had seen personally firsthand with her and Baby Jack. Bill knew his father, Tom Thornton, and they were close friends and fellow Mounties, when he died in the line of duty. So, when Jack became a Mountie Bill then considered it his duty to watch out for him. She knew without question Bill was following that same Mountie code with Baby Jack. he would watch out for him and be a strong male presence in his life. Bill would make sure that he would grow up and live by the values jack would have wanted. He watched out for her to as Jack's widow, but they had their own relationship too. I know he wouldn't ever admit it he was impressed with how well they worked together. Between them they quickly were able to solve that stagecoach robbery within the first 2 hours of him on duty. Though I don't know Constable Grant, I think he probably understands how Bill is feeling. Bill told her though they were having somewhat of a power struggle over the desk and the office.' She had a feeling though Bill was stubborn and gruff he actually liked the Mountie. Elizabeth couldn't help but laugh at the thought of that especially when he smirked as he said it. As she thought back about what he said and didn't say she had a feeling he actually liked the new Mountie. Though only time will tell how their relationship ultimately panned out. But I really hope it develops into one like he shared with Jack and the Mountie has a lot of fortitude, control and patience. He's going to definitely need all of it in the next month or so dealing with a suspicious town but especially with its Sheriff.

I'm sure everyone is worried I'll revert back to my old self after Jack first passed. But though I have my bad days I have turned that corner thanks to our son, Sargent and just the passing of time. They probably think the new Mountie will be a painful reminder. I can't lie and say I wasn't disconcerted to see a Mountie running towards the Jail the day of the stagecoach robbery. I couldn't help thinking initially it was Jack headed towards the Jail. Then I saw it was a new Mountie not Jack and struggled to gather myself together. Thankfully I had school to teach and could put it out of my mind. Then Bill showed up after school and as we walked through town it helped me process everything even more. I'm so thankful that I have Lee and Bill watching out for me especially as Jack gets older.

As she reflected on reasons for it all Elizabeth tried thinking of how she could help the situation. Suddenly she knew what she needed to do to help him be accepted. If she befriended Constable Grant, then others would too, and it might ease the concerns of the town. One thing about Hope Valley is that they always stuck together and were family. Anyone new though most of the time had to earn the peoples trust first. It had been that way since the town's was still Coal Valley with good reason given its history. But it wasn't long, and they were still somewhat friendly to them. But in the case of the new Mountie, she needed to be the first to step up. She knew it would be something Jack Sr. would have wanted her to do. Elizabeth would demonstrate the Mountie Code by befriending him and try to lend support to wherever she could. She would begin with getting the town to make him feel welcomed. Thankfully today was Saturday and she could take her time walking into town. She would go see Abigail and leave Baby Jack with her while she visited the Jail. It would also give her time to gather up her courage to follow through. It wouldn't be easy going there to meet him, but it would be more effective. It would also help her face the painful situation head on of seeing another Mountie in what once Jack's office. She had spent countless hours there with him over the years it held a lot of memories for her. Everyone was used to always seeing them together either at the Jail, Abigail's her or walking to and from school unless he was attending to Mountie business. Since he passed, she had only been there twice because it had been too painful. It had been outside that office where the Mountie told her about Jack's passing and shattered her world.

Having decided her course of action she bundled baby Jack up and headed for Abigail's. Maybe Abigail would have some other ideas as well. As she stepped out of her house Rosemary was also stepping out of hers.

"Good morning, Elizabeth! Where are you off to with this handsome little man today?"

"Good morning, Rosemary! "Oh, we are heading to the Café and to visit Auntie Abigail aren't we Jack? I also have an idea of how to thaw the townspeople in regard to the poor Constable. Where are you headed this morning?"

"I'm so glad you're going to try to help him, Elizabeth. You certainly know what he is going through given how suspicious the mothers were of you when you first arrived."

"Oh, I remember all right" Elizabeth said with a laugh. "It's the reason I had plan on doing something. Because I have been in his position, so I know exactly how it feels. Jack didn't have any issues, nor did you if I remember. But then neither of you made as bad a first impression like I did. I think I was the only suspicious of you back then." They shared a laugh both recalling their early days with one another.

So, Rosemary put her arm through Elizabeth's, and they started walking towards town.

"I can't wait to hear what your plan is and what you think of him.

Uh Rosemary? What do you mean what I think of him?

"Elizabeth? Fiona said he was quite a dish!"

"Rosemary."

"Elizabeth. Clara, Faith and I think he's very handsome too. We are all anxious to get your opinion so...!"

"Rosemary!" Elizabeth began to blush. "I am not going to give an opinion one way or the other on his appearance."

"Elizabeth! It's not like he will find out nor am I telling you to ask him out or anything. Although... it would be a way of befriending him and making him feel welcome! I'm simply asking your opinion that's all."

Elizabeth stopped and looked at her friend in disbelief and suspicion. "ROSEMARY COULTER! she said laughing "I am not even... oh look it's the Mercantile. See you later, gotta go, because Abigail is waiting."

"ELIZABETH THORNTON!" Rosemary replied teasing back. "Oh, look it's the Jail! I wonder if a certain handsome Mountie is inside waiting?"

"Well since there isn't a horse tethered at the post Rosemary, I would doubt it. But why don't you go by and see for yourself." she said laughing in exasperation. "With your "talent" of matchmaking maybe you can help Constable Grant make a love connection? Might make him feel really welcome to town." Elizabeth added sarcastically.

"Well, I just might do that but only after I hear what you think. All teasing aside Elizabeth will you stop by when you get home and tell me how it went?"

"You know I will Rosemary. Thank you for being such a wonderful supportive friend." After giving each other a hug, the two women went their separate ways.

When she entered the café Abigail met her with a huge smile followed quickly by Bill. She sat down for a cup of tea and to discuss her plan with them. Both felt that she was correct in her thinking and her plan. They had almost approached her themselves with the same idea. But didn't want to push her into anything she wasn't ready for. Bill offered to go with her to be a support, but she declined knowing she was ready. After leaving Jack happy in the arms of his Godparents she headed to the Jail. As she got there, she saw his horse outside and went over to say hello. She had gained a lot of respect for Mountie horses because of Sargent.

Then she squared her shoulders and walked up the stairs. When she approached the door, she could see he was engrossed in some paperwork he was filling out. Elizabeth bit back a laugh noticing what side of the desk he was on. Apparently, Bill was currently winning the desk battle. As she stood by the door, she noticed the office looked much different to her. That there wasn't any pain in being there making her feel relieved. Then as she stepped through to the office she greeted him to gain his attention.

"Hello!" causing him to look at her.

"Ma'am?"

Wow! Fiona was certainly correct he really is a dish! Look at all that thick black hair! Why is my heart beating so fast?

Shaking herself out of her musings she addressed him "Hello, I'm Elizabeth Thornton."

The more she spoke to him the more she liked him. She appreciated his respectful words of Jack and his bring the pension. While he wasn't "chatty" he seemed more reserved than unsociable. She sensed there was an underlying sense of humor as was kept hidden. But she could see pain that was reflected in his eyes as he spoke to her. She was very glad she came to meet him, and hope others would feel the same. As they stepped out on the porch, she began sharing her initial reception by the townspeople. Elizabeth knew he understood what she was doing by talking with him outside where the rest of town could see. As she walked away from him to go back to the café, she couldn't help but reflect on the encounter. She couldn't help thinking about his amazing blue eyes and lips that she just knew would feel wonderful against her own. Her heart threatened to beat out of her chest. Her stomach was jumping with butterflies. Suddenly Elizabeth knew she was in trouble. Constable Nathan Grant affected her the same way that Jack had although they were different in many areas. She definitely needed a cup of tea and some talk with Abigail and Rosemary.