Chapter Twenty-one

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Family Hugs, Talks and Prayers

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Saturday morning's breakfast was quiet at the Grant's. Dad and daughter hugs were tight, and their glances imbued with meaning, but their words were few. Their legitimate joy and excitement from their past week in Regina, was overshadowed by a deep sadness, yet intuitively they recognized they had a schedule to keep this morning and dared not begin to speak for fear the homesickness would overpower them. Nathan alluded to the concern as he hugged and left Allie at the door of the Collins home. "We'll talk later, Honey. I love you."

"Love you too, Dad." Allies' eyes glistened and Nathan had to quickly turn away.


Bill's relief bordered on elation that Elizabeth had reacted favorably to his introducing Jack to Constable Martin. When Elizabeth had said a quiet 'thank you' Bill's heart continued to hope. He sat on the bench outside the Infirmary remembering last evening while awaiting Joseph's arrival. Together they had another hurdle to navigate with Elizabeth. And both men were grateful to share the delivery of this news together.

As Faith allowed them in and locked the door behind them, she motioned she would be at the desk behind the curtain as planned. Joseph and Bill looked at each other, each taking a deep breath and circled around the curtain to find Elizabeth seated in the chair beside her bed. She held the latest edition of the Valley Voice, but was staring out the window.

Joseph's voice startled her out of her reverie. "Elizabeth? May Bill and I come in?" As Elizabeth took miniscule steps towards normalcy they were trying to allow her the autonomy of small choices.

"Oh!" She turned sad eyes to them. "Of course." She made no motion for them to be seated, so Bill grabbed a third chair and the men sat, forming a circle around the hospital bed. She verbalized a soft, "Hello." She nodded at Bill then at Joseph.

"Since Bill was present last evening, I hope you don't mind me asking my question in front of him." Joseph posed it as an assumption rather than a question and moved the conversation forward. "Tell me. What did you and Jack talk about when you asked about his day?" Again, Joseph chose his words carefully.

Elizabeth looked back out the window before responding. "He told me about visiting the Mountie office and Mountie Paul…" She paused. "And no candy." A small smile escaped briefly.

"I'm so glad it made an impression. I would guess that would be a wonderful relationship to cultivate." Joseph nodded approvingly to Bill. "Good idea, Bill."

"Thanks. It's part of my job as his Godfather and his father's friend. You probably don't know but Constable Martin has a younger brother who is Jack's age. So the relationship can be beneficial to them both."

Elizabeth raised her eyebrows though made no audible comment.

"We have some news for you, Elizabeth." Joseph coughed. "Ahhh. There no way to ease into this, but, your parents are to arrive in Hope Valley…" Joseph got no further as Elizabeth stood, eyes wide and panicked.

"Wh… Wh… What?" Stammering she reached her hand to both sides of her face. "Coming here?"

"Elizabeth? May I help you to your seat? We can explain it all." Joseph kindly stood and held her elbow as she sat, now gripping her hands in her lap.

"When you were unable to speak over the weekend we knew they should be here, both for you and Jack, as well as to see you themselves. Your father wasted no time in making arrangements and their train is due mid-afternoon, today." Joseph let this last bit of news sink in before continuing. He noticed the tears, but pressed on. "You have been in the Infirmary for a week now Elizabeth and, although Faith wanted to watch over and care for you, this is not a long-term solution. You need to go home soon." Again Joseph paused.

"We don't know how they plan to fit-in so we'll await their arrival and allow them to get settled before we discuss the next steps forward."

Nervously whispering, Elizabeth inquired. "Will they stay at the Saloon?"

"Oh no! Sorry we haven't explained yet." Bill informed her. "Your father rented a row house. The one where Nathan and Allie used to live."

Bending forward as her arm crossed her stomach, Elizabeth uttered an audible gasp. "Uhhh…"

"Your father furnished the house and Mrs. Swift has settled the house for them." Bill added. "She may even remain in their employ during their stay."

"They're stay? How long?"

"It's uncertain, but your father mentioned the possibility of a few months. He is also bringing his assistant so he can work some from Hope Valley."

Widened eyes again showed Elizabeth's surprise. "This is unbelievable." She looked down at her skirt and blouse. "Mother will hate this outfit…"

Joseph caught her eye, "Maybe so, but she will be overjoyed to see you, Elizabeth."


Grateful for the wheels on the ground and the wheel in his hands, Nathan drove back to the Cottage to show Allie their new vehicle. He emerged as Allie ran from the house followed by Gramma Carol.

"Dad! It's gorgeous! I love the blue!"

"The color is Midnight Blue." Nathan chuckled. "I thought you might appreciate the name, my young artist!"

Allie tilted her head and ran her hands over the polished metal. "I approve."

Allie's statement left the three adults in guffaws of loud laughter as she searched their faces. "Why are you laughing? I wouldn't want to ride around in anything that was ugly."

More laughter sprung forth as Nathan commented. "Well, no that wouldn't do at all, would it? It's like the horse's name has to be just right, right?"

"Oh, Dad! Can I be the one to name the car?" Allie put her hands together, pleading. "Please?"

Laughter continued as Nathan sputtered. "Vehicles don't have a name, Allie."

"Well, this one will. Just give me some time…" Allie opened the door to examine the tan leather and polished brass inside. "This is really sharp, Dad. Wow!"

Nathan frowned slightly, "Sharp?"

"Stylish, Dad…" A little teenage exasperation escaped, but it wasn't enough to correct.

Nathan raised his hands in surrender as they walked inside with the Collins's.


"Thank you so much for this lunch, Carol, and for baking with Allie this morning. The cookies are delicious. Allie and I will begin to cook on our own now that we have a vehicle to help get us around the City. We'll go shopping this afternoon, so is there anything we can get for you?"

"No thank you, Nathan. But will you join us for supper once a week? Maybe on Monday or Friday evening?" Carol winked at Allie, then at her husband before looking back at Nathan. "That will allow us to hear all about your days!"

"That's a great plan. Let's do Fridays, if that's okay with you both?" Nathan suggested.

"Perfect." Peter mentioned hopefully, "Maybe occasional extra dinners in between? We know you have to establish yourselves and need time as a family, plus get used to your schedules and have opportunities to meet new friends, but you are always welcome."

"Again, that's so kind. I feel we have imposed long enough, although I know you don't think of it that way!" Nathan chuckled. "I need to share the joy of Allie Grant sometimes, eh?"


Standing inside the entrance of the largest Grocery store they had ever seen, Nathan and Allie were amazed at the quantity of food and the many choices. This was one of those new self-service stores where you helped yourself to the items on the shelves. Nathan had read about one of these opening in Toronto this year. They walked the aisles filling their baskets according to the shopping list that Gramma Collins had helped Allie write earlier. Since they would not be able to walk into town to pick-up supplies from the Mercantile, they had adjustments to make in what they purchased and when!

After unpacking the groceries at the Cottage, Nathan and Allie decided to take a drive to explore the City, then chose to drive to the outskirts of town to take in the open spaces surrounding them. Pulling over to the side of a road, they got out and enjoyed the prairie, the wide, cloudless sky and a ginger ale while leaning against the car.

"Dad? We need to talk about Mrs. Thornton and Hope Valley." Allie introduced the subject that Nathan couldn't figure out how to introduce.

"I guess we do. What are your thoughts, Allie-girl?"

"I'm scared for Mrs. Thornton and I sort of wish we weren't so far away. Will anyone tell us what's going on?" She half turned to watch her father. "We don't have any letters yet."

Nathan shifted to stand closer to his daughter and draped his arm around her shoulders. "I confess I am afraid for her too. I don't understand why she was so angry and cried so much when she found out we were leaving. I was surprised." Nathan paused pensively. "I didn't think she would care."

"I know. But, I think she has always cared, Dad. Underneath." Allie leaned in. "What I don't understand is how mean she was to you back then, and even before we left. I'm glad she isn't with Mr. Bouchard now though, are you?"

"I am, Allie. Maybe not because of what you think though? I'm glad she will be her own person again. At least I hope so. Mr. Bouchard was not a good influence on her and her friendships and…" Nathan swallowed hard. "…Even her teaching suffered for it."

Allie was quiet, pondering her Dad's words. She took a deep breath and tremulously asked her question. "Do you still love her, Dad?"

Nathan couldn't answer for a while, but when he did and his voice was controlled, he admitted quietly. "I think I will always love her, Allie. At least love who she used to be… and maybe even love who she could have been in the future." He shook his head, needing to explain. "I don't mean a future with me. She doesn't want that. I just mean who she could be if she let herself…" Nathan couldn't finish. He couldn't explain to his fourteen-year-old daughter the persistent hope of his heart. He couldn't allow Allie to have false hopes only to be disappointed again. No, he had said enough. Or so he thought.

"Do you pray for her, Dad?" Allie searched his face and when he turned to look at her, she knew without him saying a word. His face got soft and she knew.

"I do." Nathan confessed softly.

"It's okay, Dad. I do too." Allie snuggled closer to her Dad's comforting side and they stilled, staring over the browning grasses to the intense autumn blue above.

"That's kind, Allie." He nudged her. "How are you doing in the forgiving department?"

"I think I'm getting better." Allie smiled sadly. "At least I think I am. I don't have to tell myself to forgive her every time I think of her now. This week I haven't thought of her very much though. Not until last night."

Allie knew when she did think of Mrs. Thornton and guessed her father did too. "You think of her at night, don't you, Dad?"

A blush creeping up Nathan's neck answered her question. "Not seeing Mrs. Thornton makes it easier for me I think, but at the same time, I still miss seeing her." Nathan spoke wistfully. "It's the worst at night, so that's when I pray."

"Can we pray for her right now?"

"I was thinking the same thing Sweetheart. Let's pray." Nathan led in a heartfelt prayer.

"Dear Father,

Our hearts ache for Elizabeth, Mrs. Thornton. We are so far away, but you are with her in Hope Valley and we ask You to heal her and wrap Your arms of comfort and love around her. May she face her fears and confess her sins and may You give her peace.

We pray for Joseph, that You would give him wisdom. For Faith the same, plus stamina to continue to care for Mrs. Thornton. We pray for the Thatcher's safe travels and all the dynamics of their visit. Your will be done, Lord. You have allowed all of this turmoil and You can bring good from it, beyond what we could imagine.

And we pray for young Jack. Help his little heart to understand his Mommy needs his love and hugs right now. Bless Rosemary and Lee and Bill who are caring for him too.

We are grateful for your loving care and ask you to comfort Allie and me too. Thank you, Lord. Amen."

Nathan and Allie were unaware that God was already beginning to answer that prayer in Hope Valley.


At two o'clock the train whistle announced the train's arrival and its first class passengers, William and Grace Thatcher stepped onto the platform with a tall, bespectacled man rushing to their aid. Lee, Bill and Henry immediately made their way across the platform and, greeting them, extended their hands. "Welcome to Hope Valley Mrs. Thatcher, and welcome back Mr. Thatcher." Lee spoke first.

"Yes, Welcome, William, Mrs. Thatcher." Bill made the introductions. "I don't know if you recall meeting Lee Coulter on your previous visit, or Henry Gowen? Lee, Henry let me introduce Mr. and Mrs. William Thatcher."

"Pleased to meet you both." Ever the gentleman Henry offered. "We think very much of your daughter, Elizabeth."

William shook hands with each man. "Hello, Bill, Mr. Coulter, Mr. Gowen. I am glad to see some of Elizabeth's friends again."

"And I to meet you." Grace extended her hand which Bill and Lee shook, but Henry gallantly kissed. Somehow it didn't seem old-fashioned when Henry did it. It felt respectful and right.

Having gathered their belongings, the man with spectacles joined them. William introduced him as David Wright, his business assistant.

Deciding to head first to the row house to get freshened up before visiting Elizabeth, Bill directed Mr. Wright to Henry's car to get dropped off at the Saloon while the Thatchers joined Lee and Bill to go to their row house.

Safely ensconced in the automobile, William immediately asked Bill for an update on Elizabeth.

"So she is talking more, but still sorrowing? And eating? Sleeping? What about young Jack? Has she seen him? How did that go?" William had many questions and although Grace had her own, she chose to listen and then assess her daughter before asking these strangers, kind as they were.


As arranged by Bill, Jesse Flynn met them at the row house and after introductions helped to unload the luggage. By the time he had finished Lee's vehicle, Henry pulled up and Jesse helped to unload that one as well.

William and Grace entered the house and were pleasantly surprised how comfortable it looked. Nothing was to be compared to the stone edifice, the mansion they had left behind in Hamilton, but this was clean, cozy and the furnishings were polished and sparkling. William had made good choices and Mrs. Swift had settled the place to look simple, but inviting.

A bouquet of chrysanthemums, dried pods and grasses and a couple branches of colorful leaves adorned the center of the dining room table which had been set for six. A neatly written note explained that Rosemary Coulter would be bringing dinner and Bill would bring dessert to share with them and Jack. They had much to discuss and planned to at least talk about the immediate schedule.

"That's thoughtful of your wife, Mr. Coulter. I look forward to meeting her. When will we get to see Jack?" Although reserved due to her station in society, Grace Thatcher couldn't wait to meet her grandson.

Bill spoke up. "We thought you would want to visit Elizabeth first? Then Lee will drive you back here in time for dinner and to spend some time with Jack. Is that acceptable for today?"

"That is fine, Bill. Thank you gentlemen for all you have done and are doing for my daughter and grandson. I am not certain how to repay you, but for now, please accept our gratitude."

After arranging a time for Lee to return to take them into town, Bill and Lee, and Henry and Jesse departed and the Thatchers climbed the stairs.


"How nice, William. Doesn't it remind you of our first apartment? This is actually more spacious than that carriage house was! If I begin to feel closed-in I will have to remember that!"

"It does remind me of those good old days!" William laughed. 'Oh look! The beds are all made and there are even a couple books on the shelf.

"And another bouquet on the dresser. We'll have to ask Mrs. Coulter if she or Mrs. Swift is to be thanked. Also, we need to know when we'll see Mrs. Swift. I'm hoping she can help me unpack as I am a bit overwhelmed after all the rush to come."


At the appointed time, Lee delivered the Thatchers to the Infirmary and Bill emerged to introduce Dr. Faith Carter.

Faith explained she would be working at her desk should she be needed since they didn't know how Elizabeth would react to a new situation. Bill opened the door and motioned them to enter, following behind to announce their arrival to Elizabeth before he departed.

"Elizabeth, your parents are here. I'm leaving, but Faith is available if you need her. Enjoy your visit."

When the Doctor opened the curtain, the Thatchers stood frozen as they saw their daughter. It had been eight years since Elizabeth had visited Hamilton and four since William had attended Elizabeth's wedding in Hope Valley. They were unprepared for how thin she was and for her pale appearance, yet with dark shadows encircled below her eyes. Anxious, guarded, sad, her expression lacked the sparkle and vivaciousness they knew as their Elizabeth. Her small smile didn't reach her eyes and William thought they almost looked haunted.

Grace was the first to hurry to Elisabeth and wrap her arms around her thin frame. Through tears, Grace just whispered her name over and over again. Elizabeth began to cry, melting into her mother's embrace. "Mother." Elizabeth whispered.

William closed the distance and held his arms around his daughter and wife, allowing his own tears to fall. When they separated, William held on to Elizabeth, keeping her in a strong hug as he whispered into her ear. "My Elizabeth. My Little Bess. My dear girl."

Tears spent for the moment, the three Thatchers looked rather sheepishly at each other, but took seats and remained attached, one parent holding each hand of Elizabeth Thatcher Thornton.

If anyone had asked, they would have been unable to recount the conversation from that afternoon. They knew they had shared tea and tiny sandwiches, but never noticed Faith deliver or remove the teacups and plates.

By half-past-four Elizabeth looked spent so they said their farewells with promises to see her before church in the morning and that they would give her hugs to Jack tonight.


Somberly William and Grace Thatcher headed to the row house with Lee. "Sorry, Lee," William confessed. "We have a lot to process." William Thatcher, shipping tycoon, swallowed hard. "I wasn't prepared for how she looked… so gaunt… so far from the spirited Elizabeth she was last I saw her." William stared out the window. "She is a shadow of her former self…"

Grace Thatcher gasped, then couldn't control her tears any longer. She sobbed in the back seat and as soon as the auto pulled up in front of their row house, William hurried to open the door and help his wife into the house, into privacy. He waved at Lee and held it together until the door closed when the damn burst for them both. Holding tightly to each other, then managed their way to the sofa and fell into it, weeping.

Whispering through her tears, Grace asked, "What do we do, William? What can we do for her?"

"Be there for her. Love her, hug and pray. At least for now."

Grace nodded against her husband's chest. "Will you, now? Pray?"

William Thatcher prayed in church. He prayed at meals. Over the years, he prayed with the children when they went to bed. And he prayed many, many silent prayers…but out loud? Like this? No written words he had memorized remotely touched on the pain and concern he felt at this moment, but he knew they had to invite God into this situation, so he breathed in and began. "Dear God, We don't know what to pray. Our dear Elizabeth, my Little Bess, is suffering so much. Heal her, God? Please? Help us know how to help her? Help us…"

A new wave of grief, of tears flowed over William and Grace, but after they stilled, Grace whispered, "Amen."


When the Coulters, Bill and Jack arrived, the Thatcher's had recovered, splashed their faces with cool water and were ready to discuss the next steps in Elizabeth' care. But first they were excited to meet Jack Thornton, Junior!

Rosemary held Jack in her arms and was the first to enter. Jack looked all around at the living room. It was Na'tn's and Awlie's house but it looked different. It took him a moment to focus on the man and woman in front of him. They were smiling and crying at the same time.

Rosemary addressed Jack, "Jack? These are your grandparents! Mommy's Mommy and Daddy. Can you say hello and shake their hands?" Rosemary set Jack down and knelt beside him with her hand behind his back. "Mr. and Mrs. Thatcher, please meet your grandson, Jack."

Grace and William both knelt to be on Jack's level. "You may call me Grandma, Jack." Grace offered.

William was moved, but managed to say, "And I'm Grandpa."

With a little prompting, Jack took their extended hands and said a quiet, "Hello."

"You're Mommy's Mommy?" Tilting his head he studied Grace's smiling face.

"I am, Sweet boy."

That familiar endearment was all Jack needed. He opened his arms to hug Grace and bequeathed her name. "You're like Mommy. You're Grandmommy."

Grace held her grandson as he wrapped his arms around her neck. "Oh, I love you, dear Jack!"

Jack leaned back, inquisitively. "You do?"

Grace squeezed a little tighter. "Oh, I really do!" She turned to point to William. "And your Grand…daddy?" As William grinned and nodded, Jack waved over Grace's shoulder.

When William held out his hands, Jack let go of Grace and moved to accept his grandfather's hug.

"Granddaddy?" Jack questioned just to be sure.

"Yes, my boy, Granddaddy!" He squeezed Jack and planted a kiss on the little fella's cheek.

Bill and Lee had quickly set the food baskets beside the dining table and stood watching with glistening eyes. "I think that hurdle has been successfully navigated!" Bill sighed with relief.

"Jack? Do you want to show Grandmommy and Granddaddy your toys?" Rosemary pointed to the basket Lee had left beside the door. "We'll get the meal on the table and then we can eat!"

Jack immediately dragged the toy basket over to the rug and dumped it upside down sending toys flying. He squatted and reached for his Mountie and horse first, holding them up to the Thatchers who had followed him. Grace sat on the edge of a chair and William got down on the floor and although there were tears, they were happy tears, tonight.