Over the course of the next week the town was glad to see their favorite couple interacting with each other in an easy manner once again. Both were more at ease and smiling regardless of who they were interacting with. It was amazing how much more open and talkative their once shy Mountie was despite only being in the town for such a brief time. He and Allie were quickly becoming beloved members of their community as if they had always been a part of it. But as much as Nathan and Elizabeth looked like they enjoyed being together there was still a bit of reserve between them. Though now whether it was just more noticeable or it was just awkwardness after a falling out was anyone's guess. When Nathan had so sweetly apologized to the widows, showing them respect and honoring their struggles raising children alone, they fell in love and knew at once he was perfect for their dear Elizabeth. He was easily forgiven and excused for putting his foot in his mouth without meaning to. They felt that his ineptitude at figuring out what he did wrong was adorable and began to look at him much like they would Hickam or Jesse. His lack of polish was proof of a sincere, compassionate heart especially with how he chose to make amends to them all. With one act of kindness and respect the town fully opened their hearts and gave their complete trust to him. Everything he had done with that situation was to his credit unlike another more polished gentleman in town that the jury was still out on.
The more the women watched the interactions they noticed that Elizabeth was rarely with Nathan in a group but instead she often walked with Allie or laughing over some book they had been discussing. But they never saw Nathan and Elizabeth together without at least one of the children and that was a rare sighting much to their chagrin. As Abigail, Florence and Molly sat with their tea discussing what they had been seeing between the couple it was decided that a meeting of the matchmakers was in order.
'Desperate times called for drastic measures' thought Abigail. she knew that there was a dark specter looming that threatened to rear up at any moment. One that could potentially destroy any chance of happiness and healing for the two of them and the town. So, it was decided that they would meet just after the end of the lunch rush when the café was closed for a bit before reopening for the dinner. Elizabeth would still be in school so it would be safe for them to talk without getting overheard or interrupted. Around the table sat Molly, Florence, Cat, Clara, Rosemary and Abigail.
"Alright ladies it's time to figure out how to move things along with Nathan and Elizabeth. We lost 3 weeks just waiting for them to realize what went wrong with that conference. To let go of the pride and hurt from things said that didn't come out as intended and the responses said in anger." Abigail said.
As the women around the table recalled the whole incident and fall out afterwards for their poor Mountie. They conveniently forgot the things they had dished out in an effort to get his attention. In their minds the ends definitely justified the means. But he remained clueless, thankfully his niece figured it out and they all chuckled at the thought that poor Allie had to explain it. Before long they started laughing as they all picture how that conversation would have taken place. It was some time before they were able to gain some composure again but not without great effort.
They were joined shortly afterwards by Bill because they needed a man's perspective and he had insight into Nathan and loved Elizabeth like a daughter. In fact, they would have thought it odd if he wasn't a part of their conversation.
"Rosemary spoke up first saying "Well, I think we all know, that Elizabeth is about as attracted to Nathan as a woman can be to a man. I would even venture that it wouldn't take much, and she would fall for him completely."
"Well as the man in this group I can tell you I can say the same about Nathan. I can't imagine anyone else being as enamored by a woman as he is. I actually think he is already in love or very close to being in love with her too." Bill added. "But they are both very stubborn people and that's just one of the areas they are perfectly matched although I can't say it's a helpful one."
The women all shook their heads in agreement with Bill. "But I will say that I like this new Mountie and I think he is the right one for Elizabeth."
Why do you think that? What makes you so sure of that?" Abigail asked.
"Well first let me clarify that I am not comparing him to a horse but… Grief recognizes grief and it's the same as when Sargent and Elizabeth were able to help each other turn the corner. I think because both have the same experience of a deep painful loss and are trying to pick up the pieces. That's why Elizabeth and Sargent were great and that they would be too. Nathan and Elizabeth were and will be able to share the grief and help each other move forward. Does that make sense?"
"Actually, it makes perfect sense Bill." Rosemary said.
"Plus, I think that they would be good for each other 's children. Each being able to provide that piece the child is missing. I know if Jack could have chosen someone he would have approved of Nathan Grant. From all that I've heard from my contacts and my own experience he is one of the finest. But in their case, there is also an intense attraction between the two that can't be faked." Bill said.
"I know what you mean about that attraction. Have the rest of you seen their interactions when the see each other?"
"I saw Elizabeth talking with Bouchard about some library nonsense and she spotted Nathan out of the corner of her eye, and she stopped talking midsentence totally oblivious to Lucas talking to her. After Nathan disappeared inside the jail, she totally forgot Lucas and just wandered off." Molly said.
" That's not the first time it's happened either." Abigail said laughing.
"Poor Lucas just looked at her as she walked away and was dumbfounded." Molly added sending the women into giggles again.
"Well Nathan is just as bad because I was getting the pie he had just paid for, Elizabeth walked in, and of course he followed her with his eyes then before I could hand him his order he walked off saying 'Thanks again Clara.'
"It's so funny how as soon as they see the other it's like no one else exists after that." Cat said. "I've also noticed that even when they weren't talking, they still kind of gravitated towards each other like they were on autopilot."
"So, what do we do? How can we get them to see what is so obvious to the rest of us?" Molly asked.
"I don't know because we don't want to scare them off and they are fighting the attraction with everything they have in them." Abigail said. "Whatever we do it has to be subtle, and it will not be easy.
"Well short of locking them both up until they admit it what else is there?" Florence asked. "Because if two people belong together it is them."
They laughed at Florence suggestion as they each pictured it before quickly dismissing it.
"Well, what about a dance? Rosemary said. Like a Sadie Hawkins type and we can hint to Elizabeth she should ask Nathan since he really doesn't know many people yet?"
"You know I think that might work." Abigail said. "Elizabeth was the one who took the first initiative to make sure Nathan and Allie felt welcomed and offered her friendship."
"Or maybe one of us could ask him and see if it makes her jealous which if I know my girl it will eat her up." Abigail said.
"That is a rather interesting idea at that." Clara said. "It certainly worked for Lee when he wanted Rosemary to finally see and admit she loved him."
" Yes, it did." Molly said with a smile at Rosemary. Rosemary smile back remembering fondly that few days that at the time were pure torture.
"I'll be forever indebted to you for that Molly. It could work for Elizabeth but there is a potential too for it to go wrong. It might a better plan to save it for a little later down the road when they get a bit closer."
"Speaking of going wrong there are things we also need to keep in mind. Whatever we plan we must remember that it may be hard at first to get her to see Nathan as a suitor. She may have guilt at first that she might be betraying Jack's memory. I know I did and her and I have had a few conversations about moving on since we have similar experiences. But I think if we go very slowly and subtlety, we can make a little progress at least. I think it could show her that she may be ready to at least begin to open her heart."
Bill spoke up and said "Nathan may have a bit of hesitancy there too because of her being a Mountie widow. He might be struggling with dishonoring a fallen Mountie brother's memory by having feelings for his widow. That may also be a major stumbling for her too because Nathan is a Mountie."
"Well, there's certainly lots to consider but I think it could at least begin to put some seeds down for future romance potential." Abigail said.
"Abigail, before I forget, I need to speak to you about that matter we have been working on for the past week. I have some news from Mountie HQ, and I need to go over it with you as soon as possible. It may affect some things coming up soon."
"Oh, Sure Bill let me get some papers I left in on my coffee table and we can go over to the office."
After the two of them left the others at the table looked at each other and turned their thoughts to that pair.
Florence said what they all were thinking. "So, what are we going to do with the two of them?"
"I think we will have to be very subtle and a bit more creative especially with Abigail. So, I think we should use Nathan and Elizabeth to bring these two together." Cat said.
"OH? Rosemary said wondering how and then suddenly she realized what Cat was thinking and she said "OOHHH yeah that is perfect!"
"Molly said "Okay so can you explain it to me because I have no idea how that would work."
Florence said "Well as much as Elizabeth would want to make sure that Nathan and Allie would feel welcomed Abigail would want Elizabeth to be happy. She wants her to end up with Nathan so will do whatever it would take to make it happen."
"Your right!" Clara said Abigail would do whatever she could for Elizabeth and me who she considers her own. Even if it meant asking Bill to the dance. In fact, we can ask Elizabeth who wants her and Bill together to suggest that if Abigail asks Bill, then she would ask Nathan. Bill will convince Nathan to accept the invitation."
"We can even suggest to Abigail that she should ask Bill so that Elizabeth won't feel self-conscious about it."
"Do you think it will work because it all sounds really complicated and there is potential for things to go wrong." Molly asked.
"Well wouldn't you and Molly do it for your children?" Cat asked Florence.
"I most definitely would. Bill is so in love with Abigail he would not care how he got a date with her so he would be a tremendous help if needed." Clara added.
"That is not a bad idea because he could also suggest to Elizabeth that she ask out Nathan as well. He tends to know just what to say to Elizabeth to get her to listen and overcome her fears. Although after that dinner fiasco with Nathan he might not be able to. But I will work on it too. Rosemary said."
With all those pieces in place the women felt comfortable with the plan of attack, and each set out to put the plan to work. Rosemary and Clara met with Lucas to arrange for the saloon to hold the dance. Florence and Molly went about spreading the word which did not take long and soon ladies were busy planning on who to ask.
It would have been a boost to the ladies to know that Elizabeth in fact had without prompting had already decided to ask Nathan to the dance. Nathan was in fact trying to figure out a way that he could make himself visible to Elizabeth hoping she would ask him. But when he did not find her and went on rounds he came back and heard the rumor that she had asked Lucas Bouchard. So, when Faith asked him, he immediately accepted though felt the disappointment keenly. Luckily though the young lady was none the wiser. Elizabeth had finally made it into town and saw Nathan standing in his spot leaning up against the jail post watching the comings and goings.
She had to take a moment to catch her breath before walking over to him. "Standing guard?" she asked with that familiar smile he loved. It had become a joke between them much like he had with Bill over the desk.
"Actually, I'm just leaning here to keep the post up" he quipped with an answering smile. Elizabeth always loved that crooked grin of his.
"Did you hear about the dance tomorrow night?" she asked
"Yes, I did. It sounds like a lot of fun I can't wait."
"Well, I was wondering if you would like to attend with me as my date?" she asked a bit nervously biting her lip.
But before he could answer Faith stopped by and said "Nathan I can't wait until tomorrow night. It's been a while since I went to a dance. For some reason we don't have many dances anymore. Hey Elizabeth, did you ask anyone yet for the dance?"
"No not yet Faith. I am not sure I'm going to go."
"Well, I hope to see you there tomorrow night Elizabeth." She said before quickly running off towards the café.
He looked over at Elizabeth and saw the disappointment and embarrassment that reflected in her eyes and on her cheeks.
"I'm sorry Nathan I should have realized that you probably would have already been asked. I'd better get home and start getting dinner ready. Bye" she said turning and leaving without giving him a chance to say anything.
But Nathan had learned a few things since that conference, and he called out and quickly caught up to her.
She had stopped but didn't turn around unable to look at him still feeling the embarrassment and awkwardness. He gently took her arm and moved around to face her looking into her eyes.
"Elizabeth I really wanted to go with you and hoped you would ask me. But when I got back from rounds people were talking about how you were going with Lucas. I'm so sorry" he said.
"Who said I was going with Lucas?"
"Well, he did. I heard him telling someone else about it."
"He actually said I asked him to go?" she asked with a confused look on her face.
"Well, not exactly he said that he was expecting you to ask him and since we had been so distant after that stupid conference, I figured you wouldn't be asking me."
"I see." She said sadly. "Nathan, I really wished you had waited but I understand and maybe next time we can attend a dance together." She added softly. As she walked away Nathan felt a wrench in his heart at the thought that he may have just made a big error in judgement. One that he would deeply regret for a while.
He couldn't help wondering if she would ask Bouchard after all and somehow, he didn't like to even think about that.
As Elizabeth headed past the saloon, she heard someone call out to her. "Elizabeth are you alright?"
She looked up to see Henry looking at her in concern. He had found himself a bench outside the saloon and was sitting enjoying the light breeze. She sat down next to him and said, "I'm fine Henry but it appears I was a bit late in asking a gentleman to the dance."
"Would he happen to wear red a lot!" he asked with a smile and a wink knowing who she was referring to.
With a slight smile she said "He would indeed. But it appears that our Nurse got to him first." She said with a sigh.
I'm a bit surprised I must say" Henry said, "because I thought for sure he was looking all over trying to run into you today."
"He said when he got back from rounds he heard Lucas telling someone he was expecting me to ask him. Since Nathan and I had our argument and had been a bit distant he figured I wouldn't want to go with him. So, when he was asked, he said yes."
"So now what are you going to do?"
"Well, I'm certainly not going to ask Lucas, so I hope someone else does. I'm probably just going to stay home with Jack."
"Why would you let something he did spoil your evening? I would go and show him that your definitely not interested and maybe he will get the hint. Might do him good to get taken down a peg or two."
"You are absolutely right. It's time someone did teach him some manners at that. In fact, Henry would you be my date for the dance?"
"Me?" he said in disbelief.
"Yes you. I really would like to go and honestly, I don't want to give anyone else the wrong impression and I think the both of us have been sad for way too long. So, what do you say? Besides think of how much it will annoy Lucas that you have a date with the one he wanted to go with expected to in fact."
"Well Mrs. Thornton you have yourself a date. I will pick you up tomorrow night." He spoke. "I can't wait to see his expression in fact Bill is probably going to need CPR." They both laughed enjoying the fact they were indeed going to shock people but also looking forward to a fun evening with a friend.
"Who would have thought back in our old days that we would find ourselves here tonight actually going to a dance together tomorrow night?" Henry said.
"Well Henry!" she said giving him a kiss on the cheek "Our past doesn't define us, and we need to move forward. It's way past time for you to forgive yourself and realize you're not the man you used to be. The Coal Valley people see it and know you tried to do the right thing. It's time you start to see yourself as we do."
Moved by her words all he could say was "Thank you Elizabeth."
"She gave him a hug and said "Your very welcome Henry. See you tomorrow." With that she headed home in a much better mood but still wishing that it was Nathan she was going to be dancing with.
While everyone else was happily arranging for their date for tomorrow night Bill and Abigail were discussing Fort Clay. They were hoping to have everything worked out before Elizabeth found out about Nathan's former duty station. But things seemed to be moving faster than they wanted them to.
"So, what's the latest Bill?"
"Well Collins said that HQ is getting some pushback from the other families of the recruits to do an Inquiry. Sam Collins told me that it isn't looking good and that they are relooking at everything, and Nathan is being implicated as well. But they are working on it and though it looks bad for our boys he thinks it's only a matter of time before they get it all fixed. They are still trying to find the one who has stirred up the families and caused this whole mess. He is currently working in Hamilton for the moment but is hoping to personally go to Clay next week and will stay until it's completed. HE says he has a good man on it that is keeping him abreast of everything."
"Then should we go ahead and speak with Elizabeth about what is happening? You know we also have to speak with the town as well because these things have a way of getting out."
"No Sam assures me his contact at Fort Clay was making good headway and they want to ensure that both are cleared."
"What is it, Bill? There's something you're worried about I can tell?"
"Well Sam mentioned that once they were finished at Fort Clay, he was going to make a trip here personally to speak with Elizabeth."
"WHAT?" Abigail yelled. "Who does he think he is" she continued angrily, "The nerve of that man. Where was he when Jack passed? Does he think she would really want to see him? What kind of reception he will probably get from her as well as a good portion of the rest of us?"
Bill let her vent and stayed silent because for one she was saying all those things he wanted to and second, he knew that she didn't want answers but was thinking out loud. When she was done, she looked over at Bill and said, "I'm sorry Bill that wasn't directed at you."
"Don't be because you're just saying what I'm thinking but I have to continue to play a game to get the information we need."
Neither spoke for a moment and then Abigail reached over to Bill and gave him a side hug in comfort ignoring the reaction she always had. Every time she hugged him it got more intense, and it was getting harder to hide.
"Honestly, I think he may feel a bit guilty about his part in Jack going to the territories and offering him Fort Clay. I know how that can weigh on someone." Bill said sadly.
"What do you mean?"
"Oh, just that I convinced Jack to go on the assignment to Fort Clay before he hung up his hat for good and left the Mounties. I just can't help wondering that when I did if she wasn't already carrying Jack. I feel like I'm the reason he doesn't have a father and Jack never knew he was going to be a father." Bill could feel the tears welling up.
Abigail's were already falling as she said "Well if you are then I am as well because I told him that even though she would be a bit upset he should go because he would have regretted it if he hadn't. I often wonder the same thing and I told her to wait until he came back before speaking of her thoughts about him going since it was a safe assignment. I often wonder if maybe things would have changed if I had made different choices and offered different advice."
"Well, it's getting late, and I need to get ready for the dinner hour which looking over at the clock has already started but I'll see you later." Abigail said quickly gathering up her papers and cup and heading back to her home.
Suddenly Bill realized she hadn't yet asked him to the dance, but he figured maybe he would try to stop by and give her the opportunity. With that he settled back down to his desk and worked on a few briefs.
When Abigail entered the café, she realized she needed to have a date for the dance but somehow, she didn't think she was ready for it to be with Bill. As her mind sifted through candidates, she wondered who she could ask. When she saw Hickam come in the café, she knew that he would be the perfect choice. He was a bit surprised and embarrassed, but he very happily accepted. Bill headed over after finally finishing and with a smile was anticipating his upcoming date. As he got close, he almost got run down by Hickam coming out excited.
"Oh, sorry Bill, I didn't see you there. I guess I was distracted by the dance and everything."
"Well, that's obvious. I think all of us are really looking forward to the dance. Who will be on your arm tomorrow night?"
"Ms. Abigail! She just asked me and I'm so glad because I thought for sure no one would. Well see you later Bill."
Bill couldn't reply because he just realized that as of now not only was he not going with the woman he wanted to, but he was now dateless. Now just what was he going to do about that. He refused to be the only one without a date although suddenly he realized he knew at least one man wouldn't get asked. With a smile he continued to the café thinking that He and Henry could enjoy some darts while the others danced. Confident in that particular plan he went in and settled down for his dinner. Not long afterward Henry himself walked in looking to grab a quick bite before heading home for the evening.
"Hey Henry" Clara said, "What would you like?"
"Whatever the special is will be fine Clara thank you."
"Coming right up and would you like me to go ahead and bring some of your favorite pie to go along with it?"
"I sure would." He answered before turning around looking for a table.
"Henry here takes a seat, and we can catch up on what has been happening with you."
"Thanks Bill."
"No problem. So, Lee is keeping all of you guys busy because I hardly see you or Jesse around."
"Well, we have some big contracts to fill coming up and things are definitely booming at the mill."
Clara arrived just as he had finished that sentence and said, "I know he will not be here for the dance tomorrow night. So now I don't know what I'll do. Wait Henry would you like to go with me?"
"Clara I would love nothing more than to take you in his place, but I have already been asked and accepted. I can honestly say I can't wait until tomorrow night."
"Oh, Henry I'm so happy for you. Who are you going with if I can ask?"
"Unfortunately, Clara there's a reason I'm not saying but I think you will enjoy finding out."
"HMMM" well okay. What about you Bill? I heard Abigail ask Mike Hickam so are you free?" she asked knowing that Bill had really been counting on Abigail asking him."
"As a matter of fact, I would be delighted to attend with you Clara." Bill said.
So as Hope Valley went to bed the plans made by the matchmakers didn't go exactly as planned as happens occasionally when you think you have laid them out so clearly. But the dance was not the only thing that wouldn't go as planned because something else was soon to arrive in Hope Valley and catch everyone off guard.
