Chapter Thirty-One: An Eventful Saturday
Saturday, promptly at 10:30 am, photographers were entering the townhouse en masse, filling the living room and spilling out into the hallway.
It was a pandemonium Hendrix was trying his best to control.
One quick call to Mrs. Bradford gave him the three names of the approved photographers.
"Monsieurs Dupont, Laurent, et Moulin!" called out Hendrix loudly and with authority.
The three photographers struggled to come to the forefront, trying their best to refrain from jostling their huge cameras, as security perfunctorily escorted those out who had been uninvited!
"Finally, calm again! Gentlemen this way!"
Nathan met Millicent on the middle landing of the Guest Townhouse, as she had run up to meet him there, so excited about taking their Engagement Photos.
Both had smiles on their faces that couldn't possibly be erased.
He took her in his arms, rubbing her back, reassuring her, but not erasing her excitement, nor his.
They were about to tell the world they were in love!
"You look so handsome!" she whispered.
And as he drew his lips to hers, he whispered back.
"And you, Darling, look stunning as always. But especially so!"
They kissed, quickly forgetting all about Engagement Photos!
He was dressed in his black suit with the same white French-cuffed Shirt with gray pinstripes, but this time, he was wearing a teal-blue and gray paisley tie with touches of black and a matching kerchief stuffed in his pocket, Millicent had also chosen for him.
"The teal-blue makes your eyes dance!" she laughed, reaching up to lovingly touch his face.
She was wearing a beautiful, yet simple gown of the same teal-blue, that on anyone, but her, would look quite plain.
But on Millicent, it looked regal.
She looked regal.
The panne velvet clung to her body in all the right places but draped beautifully where needed.
The slightly scooped Bateaux neckline extended low to her shoulders, leaving her neck bare, yet swathing her in velvet that extended down her arms ending in three-quarter length sleeves above her wrists, showing a comparable amount of skin as her neckline.
A wide Cumberband sash in teal-blue satin encircled her tiny waist and was fashioned into a large obi fold behind her with a wide mound of satin spilling out from under the fold, down over the plush full velvet skirt that fell gently from beneath the sash, draping into a slight train around her.
Together, they were the picture of elegance.
"This is your last chance to back out!" she teased.
"Not a chance," he whispered back with a wink.
He took her hand as they hurried down the stairs, pausing for one last kiss at the bottom.
"I've never been so sure of anything, Millicent!"
"Neither have I, Darling!"
"Let's go tell the world we love each other!"
Nathan took her arm and led her into the living room where the photographers had been sequestered.
"Miss Bradford, Constable Grant, this is Monsieur DuPont, Monsieur Laurent, and Monsieur Moulin. Monsieurs, Mademoiselle Bradford, and Constable Nathan Grant."
"A pleasure, Monsieurs!" welcomed Nathan, taking the lead, shaking each of their hands.
"Merci, Constable, and Best Wishes. As well as hearty congratulations Mademoiselle Bradford to you! I must say you both are dressed elegantly and perfectly for the photos!" complimented Monsieur Moulin, the eldest of the three, and if truth be known, the most renowned photographer by far. "I don't wish to change a single thing!"
It was clear, Monsieur Moulin was in charge, with Monsieurs DuPont and Laurent following his lead as though they were assistants, yet both were highly acclaimed photographers in their own right.
"We are here to historically capture this momentous event for posterity and time. And we must say we are delighted to do so, as it is our great honor! Let's start with Miss Bradford sitting in the smaller ornate French Chair. May we move it into the light?"
He had no sooner asked than Hendrix, along with Monsieurs DuPont and Laurent, had quickly relocated it to the desired spot.
"Let's take the initial photo with Miss Bradford sitting here, and the Constable standing behind, with his hand on her shoulder.
Look straight toward me!"
A flurry of flashes erupted, with all three capturing them beautifully and uniquely, in rapid succession.
The only problem the photographers had was their smiling faces, which was not considered acceptable for photo images of the time.
But the couple was so deliriously happy, the smiles stayed, no matter how hard they tried to follow the photographers' suggestions of solemnity!
Their love flowed from their faces, and it was impossible not to show or to capture it.
"You know, don't worry about solemn faces. I want you to just be yourself! Your love is a magical thing to see. It should emanate from our photos just as it emanates from your faces! We'll start our own trend! Forget solemnity!"
And it was only Monsieur Moulin, a true artist, who was French enough and wise enough, to take the risk!
Next, the photographers turned the chair toward the right with the natural light coming from behind at a more unusual angle and the result was exquisite!
The men kept turning the chair at different angles from the window and kept getting very unique results with the lighting.
Then Monsieur Moulin got a second unique idea for the time.
"Constable, can you lower your hand to Mademoiselle Bradford's forearm, Mademoiselle can you reach over and place your right hand over the Constable's?"
As soon as she did as he requested Monsieur Moulin knew he had his perfect shot.
The Emerald and Diamond Engagement Ring glistened brilliantly on her hand and contrasted beautifully with the teal blue they both were wearing!
But he noticed something more.
Unexpectedly, their long slender hands together were quite beautiful as well.
The Constable's strong rugged one supporting Mademoiselle Bradford's most feminine refined one.
It was an artist's dream.
And Monsieur Moulin was nothing, if not an artist!
Several additional shots were taken subtly and not so subtly showing the ring.
"I'd like the larger ornate French Chair brought beside Mademoiselle Bradford now, for the Constable to sit in," Monsieur Moulin directed.
Once again Hendrix and the two other photographers quickly relocated the chair, and as Nathan proudly sat by his Fiancee, all three photographers began shooting them, but from different angles.
They held hands and the result was pure art, with them looking into each other's eyes.
And it would have been even without the most gorgeous ring, for there was great love between these two, but also something else, that Monsieur Moulin could clearly see.
An authenticity, a beauty, a grace, a sophistication seldom seen between two people, but it was all here.
'They are indeed a very charismatic young couple,' thought Monsieur Moulin. 'They will go far and be much loved by the public!'
The couple's half-hour session quickly expanded to an hour.
Finally, Monsieur Moulin asked the couple to stand together.
The image they presented was striking and he loved the perfect height differential, so much so, there was yet another flurry of flashes!
They continued until Monsieur Moulin paused to take a sip of tea and noticed the grand staircase.
He quickly moved the entire operation there and took several formal shots in various positions, with Mademoiselle Bradford both standing in front of and beside the Constable. He even took one shot of her standing on the step behind him, with her hand on his shoulder.
Until finally, he started putting his equipment away and proudly made his announcement.
"Monsieurs, I believe we are done. Constable Grant, Mademoiselle Bradford, your photos will be exquisite. This I know. And of course, we will send you all the originals! I give you my word, I will pour through these tonight and select the very best for publication tomorrow!"
"We appreciate that Monsieur Moulin!" thanked Nathan.
He had been given the rite of selection for all three Montreal newspapers by Victoria Bradford herself, as he was the only one she implicitly trusted.
"Constable, Miss, excuse me, but your coats. You're expected at lunch with your parents at noon across town. Albert is waiting and you barely have time to make it without being late!"
Nathan helped Millicent into her fur.
"Oh Hendrix, I forgot. I never imagined the photos would take so long! Where's Essie?"
"I've already driven her to her rehearsal for the matinee, Miss. it's going to be delightful. But you must leave now! I'll meet you both there!"
"But Hendrix, you must come to eat with us!"
"I've already explained to Mr. Bradford, Miss, that I have several things I must do for Miss Estella, but I do appreciate the offer and will meet you all at the theater. And don't worry, I'll see that our seats are saved!"
Millicent reached to kiss Hendrix goodbye, and Nathan patted him on the shoulder.
"See you there, Hendrix!"
Albert held their door as Nathan helped Millicent into the back seat.
"Do you think we can make it, Albert?" asked a concerned Nathan.
"Absolutely, Sir. I have my shortcuts!"
"By the way, how did your special dinner go with your wife? And is she happy about the possibility of the farm?"
"Delightful and delighted, Sir! We both couldn't be happier!"
"That's very good to hear, Albert!"
Millicent was all smiles upon hearing Albert's bit of news!
"Everything is falling into place, Love!" she smiled at Nathan as he scooted in next to her.
"Yes, it is, and it feels wonderful! Do you know where we're going for lunch?"
"Only that it's in the Theater District, so we'll be close to the show!"
"You look so very beautiful, Mil!"
She wrapped her arm through his and nestled closer to him.
"I almost believe it when you say it!" she whispered.
"You'd better believe it. I'm the luckiest man in the world, without a doubt!"
He touched her face, cupping her chin with his long fingers, and placed his warm lips on her soft ones, drawing her breath into his.
"You know, I honestly don't think I could have left you if we were still waiting till February," he said earnestly.
"I know I couldn't have left you either, Love. Not a chance!"
Millicent gently placed her hand on his thigh, unintentionally sending electrical waves through his body, making him feel as though he could do literally anything as long as she was there by his side.
He closed his eyes trying to imagine a time when he hadn't loved her and all he could come up with was he had always loved her.
She had been his first crush.
And now she was his last one!
"What are you thinking, Nate, Darling?"
"That I've loved you forever," he said simply and truthfully.
She sighed and laid back against his broad shoulder.
"I've loved you forever too," she whispered.
They stayed that way for the rest of their drive, not needing to say another single thing…with Nathan holding her, and both of them loving each other deeply, fully, and uniquely in every way each other needed, and more.
As Albert pulled up to their destination, both were delighted!
"It's Americano! I've always wanted to eat here. They're supposed to have the best prime rib in all of Canada!"
"I don't know why I didn't think of that, as it's Father's favorite," laughed Millicent.
Security was already out by the time Albert opened their door.
Nathan shielded Millicent from the crowd that had gathered and quickly led her into the restaurant.
The Maitre D met them at the front door and quickly led them into the elevator to take them to their very private dining room on the second floor.
Nathan gently squeezed Millicent's hand, both smiling secretively, remembering their last very romantic, blindfolded experience in an elevator!
As they exited the elevator and walked down a short hall to large double doors, the Maitre D quickly opened, they were thrilled to see the entire family there. Both sets of parents, Richard and Margaret, and even William, and Pippa! It was going to be a great Saturday!
The families all clapped as the couple entered.
Nathan and Millicent first hugged and kissed both sets of parents, then moved on to Millicent's siblings!
"Brother, you didn't think we'd miss a Saturday afternoon with you still here, did you?"
"Richard, always a pleasure! It's almost like you care!" teased Nathan.
"Don't push it! I'm here to get all the gory Wedding Details! Plus, couldn't miss Essie's debut!"
"There are no Wedding Details, Brother, except the date!" taunted his sister, knowing the less Richard knew the better, as he was not only the Family Prankster, he was the Family Prankster extraordinaire!
"Richard, if you don't attempt to behave yourself, you won't even be asked to come to the wedding, much less be in it!" reminded Margaret.
"Your wife is a very wise woman, Richard," agreed Nathan with a grin! "Best to heed her advice!"
"Richard, if you do a single thing to mess up this ceremony your mother and I are going to plan, I'll personally see that you live to regret it and I don't do idle threats!" declared Sophia.
"Why Miss Sophia, I wouldn't think of interfering in God's House, but now, you've got to admit outside of that is fair game!" cajoled Richard.
"Not in my house you don't, Son!" reminded Victoria. "I will not have my Daughter's and Son's Wedding or Wedding Reception ruined! And that's that!"
"Now, this seems a bit unfair! How am I going to add the spunk to the Wedding if you Ladies are making everything off-limits?"
"Exactly!" both Sophia and Victoria retorted at the same time.
"I don't know Son, there are ways," offered Archie with sparkling eyes.
"There goes my own Father siding with the enemy!" exclaimed Nathan.
"Not siding at all, Son. But we older men have been around the Wedding block a time or two before. Haven't we Edward?"
Edward nodded and winked.
"Besides, a Wedding isn't official without a little tomfoolery!" he agreed.
"Way to come through, Father!"
"Within limits, Dear. Within limits!" Edward winked.
"William, don't forget we're a team, now!" reminded Nathan.
William winked and Richard guffawed!
Nathan knew this was going to be war!
And it wouldn't be pretty!
"We'd better order if we're going to make Estella's play. I can tell you without reservation, their Prime Rib is the best I've ever had. Trust me to order family style?" asked Edward.
Everyone stopped their mini conversations long enough to agree and immediately went back to them!
While Edward ordered the meal for everyone, Nathan turned to Millicent.
"It's a happy table, Love!"
"Yes, it is! This is our family, all in one room! Here to celebrate Essie's debut and our engagement!"
Both felt so warm, knowing they were making this unofficial family a most official one!
"I can't wait till Allie and all the children join us at Christmas! Then our family will truly be complete!"
"Yes, it will! You know she really is getting her dream!" agreed Nathan, looking around the table.
"Pretty close! I just hope she's okay with me being her mother. You know, Darling, she had very definite ideas and she's still hurting from all that. I can't help but keep wondering if she's truly ready."
"She's so ready, Millicent. I know Elizabeth didn't mean to, but what she did hurt Allie badly. She took it so personally, almost like no female could love her. Then you came and during the two weeks you were with her, you showered her with love. I saw the old Allie return."
Sophia and Victoria couldn't help but overhear the couple's conversation, and both said a silent prayer for Millicent to be given the wisdom to know, and supply, Allie's needs.
Sophia was still angry that her only granddaughter had been treated so callously and by an adult, who supposedly understood children and had their best interest at heart!
In Sophia's mind, the whole debacle should have been handled very differently!
She was having to do a lot of praying to forgive for that one.
Specifically, to forgive one Mrs. Elizabeth Thornton.
It helped that her Son was now with the woman she knew he had been meant to be with his entire life, the woman who in Colleen's absence was meant to be Allie's Mother.
Sophia sighed and spoke in a low voice to Victoria.
"Tori, I'm determined to not hold a grudge toward that woman, but to be honest I'm struggling, especially where Allie's concerned. She's just a child!"
"The only thing I can figure out, Sophie, she had to be in a very bad way. No woman, much less a teacher, would have hurt a young girl like that, knowingly."
"Mother, Victoria's right. Not to defend her, because both Allie and I were both hurt terribly, but she was in a very bad way. And the truth is, perhaps I had to go through that pain, to see what true love really is," and he looked at Millicent adoringly. "I would go through fire to have this love with Millicent."
None of the three women were prone to crying, but all had tears in their eyes at that remark.
"You're right, Son. All is the way it's supposed to be, and however we got here, I'll just learn to be grateful," promised his Mother. "I just want my Babies happy!"
"We are, Mother. I'm happier than I've ever been in my life, thanks to Millicent. And Allie is going to be thrilled when we tell her! She's been praying for a Family and now she has a great big extended one!"
"We're so happy to have her as part of our family, too, Nathan!" and he knew Victoria meant it.
"Yes, the Children can't wait to meet their new cousin! We brought pictures of them to show her!" Interjected Margaret.
"That's wonderful, Margaret! She'll be so happy to have photos and be able to put faces with the names!" commented a very grateful Millicent.
"Thank you, Margaret. Having photos will make everything seem real to her before we travel to Montreal. Everyone in Hope Valley will see those pictures, too, if I know Allie!" agreed Nathan.
By that time the Maitre D returned with an army of servers so that everyone was served at once.
The first course was an appetizer of Hot Crab and Artichoke Dip with Three Cheeses served with Crostini and Fresh Veggies.
The second course was a Wild Mushroom Risotto.
The third course followed in the form of an elegant Caesar Salad with Anchovies served with Homemade Cheese Straws.
The fourth course and remaining courses, except of course dessert, were served next, altogether, family-style.
First, the sides were brought and placed in the center of the table.
They included:
Scalloped Hasselback Potatoes
Roasted Carrots & Parsnips with a Brown Sugar Glaze
Brussel Sprouts with Pepitas & Split Roasted Figs
Thyme Scented Squash Gratin
And then of course the star of the meal was brought out by the servers in unison, on silver domed platters.
The Prime Rib looked delectable and was cooked to perfection, served swimming in a Red Wine au Jus with a side of Cold & Creamy, yet Hot Horseradish Sauce made tableside!
The main course was served also with huge Yorkshire Puddings that were so large, they demanded their own plates!
"Edward, now I see why this is your favorite restaurant. The Prime Rib is superb!" bragged Nathan.
And it was, as was just about everything else on the table.
Conversation flowed freely and easily.
Everyone was simply comfortable, thoroughly enjoying the delicious food and each other's company.
"Oh, Darling, Sophie and I meant to ask how the photo session went!"
"Quite well, I think. It lasted a full hour," explained Millicent. "But don't be surprised to see we're smiling! We just couldn't possibly look all glum!"
Everyone laughed, as they were not at all surprised!
"Ah, 'Young love is a flame; very pretty, often very hot and fierce, but still only light and flickering. The love of the older and disciplined heart is as coals, deep-burning, unquenchable,'" quoted Richard, teasing the young couple. (*12)
"Henry Ward Beecher, and yes dear Brother, our love will weather the storms of age! Unquenchably so!"
That brought more laughter for Nathan had just one-upped Richard!
The back and forth continued, with the elder Gentlemen entering the conversation with their words of wisdom.
But none was better applied than Archie's dramatic and humorous delivery of the following, as all around the table knew the young couple couldn't wait to be married!
"Nil leigheas ar an ngra ach posadh! Meaning there is no cure for love other than marriage!"
Which brought a round of applause drowning with laughter, even from the young couple!
Dessert came in the form of Individual Cherry Clafoutis, which the couples at the table quickly started feeding to each other!
The younger siblings, William and Pippa, were left to decide whether what they were observing was insane or extremely romantic!
"I'm going with extremely romantic…" insisted Pippa knowingly.
As the families entered the theater, everyone was ready for a good time, including Edward, who sat by Hendrix.
"Oh, Miss Estella won't disappoint, Sir. Get ready for quite a few laughs. It's definitely a feel-good play," assured Hendrix who had already seen it, but in its rough stages.
Today, everything was to be refined!
"The play is a comedy-mystery about a wealthy old lady who is being courted by a charming and handsome gentleman, who really wants to murder her and leave with her money! But Essie to the rescue, as it is the dresser who is constantly in the know and squarely on top of things!" explained Hendrix.
Millicent laughed.
"That sounds just like Essie at home!" she marveled.
"Yes, Miss! Doesn't it though?" asked Hendrix dryly.
Millicent giggled, trying not to show it.
"Not much of an acting stretch," whispered Nathan.
Which caused Millicent to keep giggling!
But the lights dimmed, and the curtains pulled back to hearty applause from the audience, opening to the first scene, with none other than their own Estella on the stage, alone.
"I don't like him! I don't like him at all! There's something about that surly look he gives when the Mrs. isn't looking. That charm oozes out of him like butter on toast…"
Turning to the audience:
"And it's my Mrs. that's toast," she confirmed. "Well, I'm not having it! Not having it at all! I'll yank out every one of those silver hairs in that smarmy head of his, and twist that slimy little worm into oblivion before I let him hurt my Mrs.!
"Essie can't be at home, because she has a woolen pea coat, with hat and gloves on," whispered Millicent. "Wonder where she is?"
But, then as to answer the question, a loud noise sounded off stage, there came a fumbling at the door and then entered the silver-haired charmer in question, or slimy little worm, as the case may be, with Essie now hiding in his closet!
It was a great opening and due to Essie's extreme facial expressions (which were fairly close to her norm) and her comedic delivery, which was something that had not been as appreciated by those who loved her, there was already laughter throughout the theater!
By the time the first scene ended, Richard was seeing Essie off stage, as she snuck out of the closet she had been hiding in, with loud whistles, ringing throughout the theater!
As the scenes progressed, it could be seen that the plot was divine with twists and turns everywhere, with Essie as her character, Magda, smack in the center of all the turmoil!
"I tell you, Mrs. C - something is not right here! Must you always have a gentleman caller? Can't we summarily dispense with the men and just get you a bevy of female friends to play with?"
"Yes, pure Essie, whispered Millicent with a giggle. "Only it was always in the reverse for me!"
"Okay, now you're in trouble, Essie," whispered Nathan back.
The twists and turns kept coming till finally Kate Warne (the first female detective, who had thwarted an assassination attempt on President Abraham Lincoln), was now being channeled aka Magda! Who just like her predecessor, was about to brilliantly crack the case! (*13)
"This was a tough one Mrs. C and I hate to break this news to you…"
"Then don't!" ordered Mrs. C imperiously, with a wave of her hand.
"Ma'am, with all due respect, you can't live your life with your head stuck in the sand! The bad news is…Mr. Lars Melvin…is a scoundrel…just like I thought."
"Just like YOU thought!"
Mrs. C wailed as she traversed from one side of the stage to the other.
"Why can't you just think, less, and tend to your duties?"
"But, Ma'am, you are my duty…"
"Hmph! I'm not a child! A fact, you seem to constantly forget, Magda!"
"But Mrs. C - there's good news. You just won't believe me unless you see it for yourself. I think we should have a small luncheon."
"And just who do YOU think we should invite, pray tell! It's not like I'm instantly going to fall in love with another man!"
"Not to worry, Mrs.C, I'll take care of everything. You do want to know the good news too, right?"
"If Lars is truly a scoundrel like you say, I doubt there is any good news!" And off she went wailing again, to and fro, across the stage, wringing her hands in despair.
The next scene's curtain opened to a most formal dining room set with a magnificent luncheon.
Mrs. C was dressed in her very best and made up to the hilt, with the fanciest of hairdos.
Even Magda was dressed in her most formal maid's costume.
And as if the uniform gave her even more clout, Magda was being extra snooty to one Mr. Lars Melvin.
Mrs. C was quite perturbed that Mr. Melvin, the now known scoundrel was their only guest, as she wanted to give him a piece of her mind, and certainly not feed him her best food and champagne!
"What in the world is Magda thinking?" she stage-whispered, so all could hear, except Magda of course.
All the while, giving Magda looks that would kill.
But out of the blue, the doorbell finally rang, and not a minute too soon.
"Ma'am, may I present Mr. Lance Melvin!" announced Magda with a flourish and a fair amount of glee.
Mrs. C fainted dead away and Magda, the super sleuth brought the house down!
You see, Mrs. C had twin brothers as suitors, thinking they were one and the same, comprised of one very conniving and evil Lars and one very sweet and loving Lance, who ran to his Mrs. C, reviving her with a most passionate kiss, while Magda held a very angry Lars back in a stronghold, lifting his feet in the air, dangling them over the floor!
Bringing the house down to thunderous applause!
The cast with Essie/Magda as the star took three bows - with matinee reviews ensuring a very long and prosperous season!
The entire family met Essie up on the stage, gathering around her, full of pride and with their congratulations!
Victoria and Sophia brought her huge bouquets of her favorite long-stemmed red roses!
"Amazing job, Essie! Just amazing!" cried Victoria. "We're so proud of you!"
"Essie you didn't tell us you were the Star!" chastised Millicent, ever so slightly, but full of pride, giving her the biggest hug ever!
"And what a star you are. Fantastic job, Estella! Just fabulous! I think you have a whole new career if you want it!" complimented Sophia, who herself had starred in several plays, along with her dancing, while in London, during her younger years.
Nathan smiled as Richard asked Essie to dance, but whisked her away across the stage floor before she could even answer!
Sophia clapped her hands in glee.
Richard had never been her best dance student, but what he lacked in skill and technique, the man made up for in charm, looks, and gusto!
"Bravo," Sophia called out to her second son!
This was Essie's shining moment, and she was thrilled at her success!
But with tears in Essie's eyes, she was even more thrilled to have her entire family there celebrating with her!
"No not a career, just a hobby. I'm right where I belong - with my family!" she managed through the happiest of tears.
Back at the Bradford Estate, Edward had offered his conference room that was just beyond his library for their meetings.
The first meeting had to do with the new estate or 'farm' as Nathan and Millicent liked to call the new Grant Estate!
So, Edward, Archie, and Albert sat in with Nathan, Millicent, and Monsieur Toussant, along with the team of attorneys and financial advisors.
"Madame Toussant and I couldn't be happier that you are the young couple taking over our home. We wish you many many years of life and love on what is now the Grant Estate. My only request is that I might come and visit Black Feather from time to time," he very hopefully suggested.
"We wouldn't have it any other way, Monsieur Toussant. Horses are not inanimate objects. They have relationships and you're still Black Feather's master. That will never change. You and your wife visit whenever you like. We would be honored," assured Nathan, speaking for the both of them.
"I was hoping you'd say that. Thank you for those most gracious and kind words, and for understanding. Shall we get started? We have much work to do."
The couple with their Fathers and Albert, poured over each and every business belonging to what was now the Grant Estate, looking at the assets of each business, along with the profit and loss statements and all the bookkeeping records, including extensive budgets.
Monsieur Toussant gave a quick overview of each business, doing his best to list any potential concerns and or problems that might soon arise.
Each business was incorporated as a separate legal entity, in order to protect the estate itself.
"This is exactly the way I would have set them up," assured Edward with relief that they at least weren't going to have to start completely over.
He continued.
"However, I do believe the Estate should be set up as its own entity as well."
"I agree, that's how we've always done the Ranch," added Archie.
"Is that difficult, Father?"
"No, Dear. Not at all! Patrick, could you see to that? If you'd like, you two, Archie and I can look over what Patrick comes up with since you all are overwhelmed with wedding issues or soon will be," he grinned.
Nathan laughed before he responded, sensing the dread of what was surely to come just to marry the woman he loved!
"We'd appreciate that very much, Sir!" thanked Nathan. "What about new equipment for the businesses? Are there funds set up for future expenditures?"
"Excellent question, Son!" complimented Edward. "That alone can eat up all you're profits before you even know it, and then you're operating in the red."
"Yes, there are funds set aside in the form of five-year projections for equipment as well as slush funds for any unexpected expenditures that are needed. We've never had to go outside those funds. In fact, we've seldom even used over half of the amounts."
"That means you're doing an excellent job maintaining your equipment," pronounced Archie.
Nathan mostly listened, jotting down a thing or two here and there, while Millicent and Albert took copious notes.
The attorneys and advisors wanted to look everything over with a fine-tooth comb, but overall they were very pleased with the initial proceedings!
So far, they had only noticed a few points they felt needed tightening up.
"Nathan, I understand you and Millicent have yet another meeting after this. Why don't you walk Monsieur Toussant and his team to the door and then take a little break as we regroup here?" suggested Edward.
"I'll excuse myself too, Sir!" offered Albert.
Nathan and Millicent led the long way through the Grand Hallway and to the front door, saying their goodbyes there.
"Monsieur Toussant, Millicent and I want you and your wife to know we will cherish the Estate, tend to it mindfully, and make you proud to the best of our ability!"
"I know you will, Son. You take care of our beautiful Mademoiselle, too. And don't be a stranger. You have our contact information."
He winked at Nathan.
"You know my wife and I fell in love with this young lady too. You're entering what can sometimes be a complex and difficult world, I presume, but, Son, she's worth every bit of complexity or difficulty. I know, for I once upon a time was in a very similar situation."
"Thank you, Sir. I know you're right! She's worth the world!"
They embraced and Monsieur Toussant also kissed Millicent in the way of the French, on both cheeks, as his team walked out on the portico.
And then with a warm smile and a firm handshake to Nathan, he was gone.
"Albert, how are you feeling?" asked Nathan.
"Confident, Sir. There's nothing I see that we can't handle! I'm just ready to get started!"
"Why don't we say after our New Year's Wedding?" grinned Nathan with twinkling eyes.
"That sounds perfect, Sir!"
"Good night, Albert. We're so happy you're going to be running the Estate for us!"
"It's an honor, Miss! Now you two need to go take that break Mr. Bradford was talking about! Good night for now. I'll be back later with the car."
As he turned to leave, he suddenly turned back.
"As long as I'm at the new Grant Estate, you two will never have to worry. I give you my word!"
And then he walked to the Limousine, ready to leave to complete a few errands.
Millicent suddenly got a huge flirty smile on her face, grabbed both of Nathan's hands, and pulled him down the hall into a dark room Nathan couldn't remember having been in before.
"I love you more than anything in this entire world!" she pronounced and slowly proceeded to show him that very thing.
"You are my world, Mil. You and Allie and her many brothers and sisters to come," he grinned with utter delight, feeling certain he had made her blush, even in the dark, something he prided himself in being able to do!
But by the time Millicent got through with him, he might have been blushing, too.
Why he couldn't have even told you where he was, had he known!
Neither had she even bothered to turn on the lights.
And as they stood there, smothering each other with kiss after kiss, neither had a desire for lighting at all.
Nathan gasped till he was able to get out a thought…
"Dad was right about one thing, for sure. Marriage is the only prescription for love!"
Millicent smiled, straightening herself and him in the dark, then together again in the hallway mirror, as Geoffrey came to announce they were ready to start the second set of meetings.
Archie was already in the living room with Sophia and Victoria.
Edward was walking toward them.
"Father, do you mind staying with us for this next part?" asked Millicent.
Edward looked at Nathan unsure whether or not he should agree.
"Sir, this all came from you. I'd like you there for moral support and advice if you don't mind. For some reason, it feels like it will seem less shocking if you're with us."
Edward patted him on his back.
"I'm happy to do that, Son. But both of you keep in mind, this is only money, and it's really only your hearts that truly count!"
The three of them walked back to the library together, knowing deep inside, Edward was right.
Hearts over money any and every day of the week!
Nathan stilled the nervousness within him by telling himself however shocking this would be, for he was the outsider, the only one who did not know the figures he was about to see, it would only bring him closer to Millicent.
And that was all he cared about.
Being her rock and support in all things, even this, as terrifying as that was.
As they came to the door of the conference room for the second time this night, Millicent asked her father to give them a few moments alone, in his library.
He smiled.
"Of course, Darling! You two take your time," and he proceeded back into his own conference room.
She took Nathan's hand and had him sit next to her on her father's huge caramel leather tufted sofa.
"I love you, Nathan Alexander Grant, and I will love you only more when we leave this conference room tonight, if that's even possible, as you will know me completely. I will no longer have to shoulder the burdens of my inheritance alone. I also won't have to shoulder the joys of my inheritance alone. I'm saying that not to be selfish, but to let you know, unequivocally, that it is yours. What's mine is now also yours, the good and the bad. But along with the many problems, don't lose sight of the joys, the security it will bring. The good it will allow us to do. It will never change who we are. It doesn't control us. We control it."
Her eyes were searching his and he hated they had to go through this, but he knew it was a part of her and he loved all of her, not just the easy parts.
He took both her hands in his, caressing them.
"I can do this. I'll be fine. We'll be fine, my Darling. As you and both your parents have said, it is only money."
"A lot of it," she warned, hesitantly. "And I know that can be quite overwhelming. It was, even for me, when I first learned of it."
"We will always be the same, regardless of the money, no matter the amount. I give you my word."
He placed his hand behind her head, smoothing the blond tendrils curling about her face with his other hand, and looked directly into her beautiful green eyes, sensing her trepidation.
"There isn't a single part of me that doesn't love you. And there won't be a single part of me that doesn't love you when we leave that room," he promised.
They sealed their promises with one last kiss, smiled at each other in the intimate way Lovers do, then Nathan turned to escort the woman he loved more than life itself into the most auspicious business meeting of their lifetimes.
The amount was far greater than he had ever imagined.
The figure just kept growing and growing as the men kept rattling off more numbers, saying something that projections would be greatly increased from their now conservative estimates.
He sat there, numb.
His head was spinning, and for a moment he thought he might be sick, but Millicent was holding his hand, and Edward was offering supportive and understanding glances.
It was indeed overwhelming.
Just so very overwhelming.
He took as deep a breath as he could possibly muster.
He just had to focus on Millicent and on Edward.
Not these strangers spouting off numbers left and right, without stopping.
The numbers just kept coming, and he felt as though they were suddenly smothering him, making the entire room start to spin.
The longer the men spoke, he felt as though the room was spinning round and round, suddenly closing in on him.
He thought he was prepared, but this amount of money was incomprehensible.
He loosened his tie.
He prayed inwardly to God for strength, and God immediately answered his prayer, taking away his panic and filling him instead with a spirit of stewardship and strength.
A calm came over him and he shifted in his chair, now turning to listen attentively to what was being said to him, and for the first time, raising his eyes to those speaking.
Millicent, who had been praying too, was still holding his hand and could feel the tenseness leave his body.
She knew then he was going to be alright.
She breathed a small sigh of relief, as did her father.
Now that he was able, Nathan began to listen intently, as though he were back in charge at his own office, now able to retain what was being said to him.
Yes, this was a business.
He could at least comprehend all this as a business.
He began to ask questions, trying his best to understand each and every aspect.
And he kept asking questions, not caring whether they were the right ones or not, simply needing to know.
He jotted down a few notes of things he was unclear about per the attorneys as well as the accountants, that in his mind, needed more extensive follow-up.
He stopped and asked Edward and Millicent for clarification of the finer points when it was needed.
He was now getting his cadence, his rhythm in this very new 'business' arena.
And there it was again.
Yes, it really was a business and he latched onto that instead of thinking in terms of money and clung onto the concept persistently.
A business he could deal with; even multiple businesses he would deal with!
Having this obscene amount of money, he could not.
At least not yet.
Perhaps someday.
But not today.
Today he would learn, shelve it away, and love his Millicent.
That was simply all he could presently manage.
But deep inside, he knew for Millicent, that in itself, was more than enough.
And for that, he was so deeply grateful...
(*12) Quote, Henry Beecher Ward, 6/24/1813-3/8/1887, Public Domain
(*13) Kate Warne, Became First Female Detective as a Pinkerton in 1856, 1833-1868, Public Domain